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Valley saddle maker gains some fame over name confusion Actor Michael Keaton mixes up two Brad(ley) Coopers, tells funny late-night TV story By Raiza Giorgi
publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com
G
etting names mixed up happens, but having your name mixed up with a famous person doesn’t happen all that often. For Buellton-based custom saddle maker Brad “Cash” Cooper, it happened when his famous client Michael Keaton accidentally confused him with the actor Bradley Cooper. The story started when Keaton, known for his title-role performances in “Beetlejuice” and “Batman,” contacted the well-known saddle maker to create a custom saddle for his horse. “I took a deposit from Mr. Keaton and then didn’t hear from him for several months, so I figured he got busy and then he contacted me to tell me this funny story about his messages with Bradley Cooper,” Cooper said. The story was so funny Keaton ended up telling it on a recent appearance on “Late Night with Seth Meyers” while promoting his role in “The Protege” and reprising his role as Batman in “The Flash.” Keaton says he contacted the saddle maker because he wanted to have something cus-
The making of actor Michael Keaton's saddle became a funny late-night story.
Photos by Barry Sigman Brad "Cash" Cooper works not only as a custom saddle maker, but also as a wrangler at The Alisal Guest Ranch.
tom-made. The actor says he isn’t an extravagant person, but decided to treat himself to a new saddle to use on his ranch in Montana. After speaking with the saddle maker, he then started emailing him to convey what styles he liked and sizing for the saddle horn and was getting strange responses. “‘Yeah, okay. Ha, ha!’ with an exclamation point right,” he said to Meyers. After a while, Keaton said, he would check in again and get a “Sure, whatever,” response
and Keaton wanted to get the saddle wrapped up and got back a response, “Who is this?” “What are you talking about ‘Who is this?’,” Keaton said. Keaton came to find out he had been corresponding with the actor Bradley Cooper, not the saddle maker Brad “Cash” Cooper. “I thought that was pretty funny,” Cooper the saddle maker said with a laugh. “After we got straightened out and all the details sorted through, that saddle turned out to be one of
Local saddle maker Brad "Cash" Cooper offers classes for people who want to learn about the art of leather work.
the best ones I’ve done.” “Cash” Cooper started working with leather at the age of 12 when his father gave him a SADDLE CONTINUED TO PAGE 31
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2 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
Home burglary presents new challenge to County Fire Department PIO While out of town, SB resident Mike Eliason helped officers nab Buellton burglary suspect By Tom Bolton
Noozhawk Executive Director
M
ike Eliason is known to many as a source of timely information about wildfires, crashes and other public-safety incidents in Santa Barbara County. But the public information officer for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department found himself in a very different role on the night of Sunday, Sept. 12, when a stranger broke into the home he shares with his wife, Kathy, in the Mesa neighborhood in Santa Barbara. Eliason was out of town at about 6:45 p.m. when he was alerted by cameras on the property about a possible intruder. “The guy pulled right in and parked in the driveway,” Eliason told Noozhawk. Eliason watched via his security camer-
Photo contributed Veterans and previously interned citizens may be granted retroactive high school diplomas by the Santa Barbara County Education Office (SBCEO) through the Operation Recognition program.
Photo contributed Trey Von Duus, 21, of Buellton, second from left, is taken into custody by Santa Barbara Police officers Sunday night after breaking into a Mesa home.
as as the man walked into the courtyard, then climbed a fence and proceeded into the backyard. BURGLARY CONTINUED TO PAGE 30
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Veterans, internees sought for retroactive high school diploma program County Education Office plans Operation Recognition ceremony in April Staff Report
B
etween the 1940s and 1970s, thousands of students left high school to serve in the United States Armed Forces. During World War II, over 100,000 individuals were interned in relocation camps across the United States. Some of these veterans and internees could not finish high school or receive their diplomas due to their military service or internment. Veterans and previously interned citizens may be granted retroactive high school diplomas by the Santa Barbara County Education Office (SBCEO) through the Operation Recognition program. The Santa Barbara County Board of Education and SBCEO invites veterans and individuals who meet the eligibility requirements to apply for their high school diplomas and participate in the Operation Recognition grad-
uation ceremony on April 7, 2022. Individuals may apply posthumously for deceased family members who meet the criteria. “We are honored to recognize the service and sacrifice of these individuals by presenting them with their diplomas,” said Santa Barbara County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Susan Salcido. “In 2019, six distinguished veterans received their high schools diplomas, and we look forward to celebrating the Class of 2022.” The eligibility criteria, as established by the California Education Code, are: n Individuals who served in World War II (Dec. 7, 1941, to Dec. 31, 1946), the Korean War (June 27, 1950, to Jan. 31, 1955) or the Vietnam War (Feb. 28, 1961, to May 7, 1975) and were honorably discharged from their military service. n Individuals interned in a relocation camp from Sept. 16, 1940, to Dec. 31, 1946. n All recipients must have been enrolled in a high school before enlistment or internment and been unable to receive their diploma due to their enlistment or internment. Interested individuals may apply through VETERANS CONTINUED TO PAGE 5
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October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 3
County, Lompoc fire departments benefit from new wildfire safety funding PG&E continues to partner with California Fire Foundation to award grants Staff Report
T
he California Fire Foundation (CFF) has announced $680,000 in wildfire safety grants to 55 local fire departments, fire agencies and community groups across the state through its Wildfire Safety and Preparedness Program (WSPP). Among the agencies scheduled to receive grants are Santa Barbara County Fire Department with $10,000 to support education, planning or community outreach campaigns; and Lompoc Fire Department with $12,000 to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE). The grants are part of a broad wildfire safety program administered and managed by the CFF. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) supports the program with $1.4 million in charitable funding. The objec-
tive is to raise awareness about wildfire safety and bring resources to underserved communities in high fire-threat areas. For a 2020 summary of the WSPP, click here. “Once again, we are experiencing an extremely destructive wildfire season throughout the state that is impacting communities far and wide,” said Rick Martinez, executive director of the California Fire Foundation. “Grant funding from the 2021 Wildfire Safety and Preparedness Program aims to bring additional resources to fire departments and local organizations to give them extra support to help keep our communities safe.” Teresa Alvarado, PG&E Central Coast and South Bay region vice president, said: “Safety is PG&E’s most important responsibility. We are pleased to see these grants going to our community partners at Lompoc City Fire Department and Santa Barbara County Fire Department to support wildfire risk reduction efforts.” Since 2018, 200 fire departments and fire agencies statewide have received
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funding through the WSPP. Funding targets specific communities identified as having extreme or elevated fire risk as identified by the California Public Utilities Commission. “As California’s wildfire risk continues to grow, it will take all of us working together to find solutions to stop catastrophic wildfires,” PG&E’s Alvarado added. “We’re grateful to partner with CFF in supporting fire departments, other agencies and community groups to achieve that mutual objective.” The WSPP focuses on two key areas to help keep communities safe: n Wildfire Safety Campaign that features fire safety education, developed by CFF, in English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and Hmong to promote early evacuation during fires. The WSPP has worked hard to overcome language barriers by developing and distributing in-language fire-safety messaging. This campaign includes paid ads in radio, television, and digital ads, and outdoor
billboards in high fire-threat areas. n Grant Program administered by the CFF through an application process. The CFF awards grants to recipient fire departments, agencies and community groups in support of projects and programs focusing on wildfire/disaster prevention, preparedness and/or relief and recovery assistance. PG&E’s contribution continues a fouryear collaboration with CFF. PG&E has provided $4.6 million in total support for fire safety awareness through the WSPP. The charitable contribution is shareholder-funded, not funded by PG&E customers. The CFF, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, aids firefighters, their families and the communities they protect. The CFF’s Firefighters on Your Side program, also supported by PG&E, provides multi-lingual, culturally relevant fire safety messaging in both digital and print form, to assist the public in staying safe.
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County’s Veterans Stand Down event returns to Santa Maria After 2020 hiatus, event to help homeless, at-risk veterans scheduled for Oct. 16 Staff Report
D
uring the Santa Barbara County’s Veterans Stand Down event on Oct. 16, homeless and at-risk veterans will receive food, clothing, hygiene products, medical and vision screening, haircuts and showers. They will also learn about opportunities and programs including veterans treatment court, California ID cards, housing, employment and training, mental health, legal assistance, social services and more. The Stand Down will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Santa Maria Fairpark. This is the ninth year of the local event. The 2020 Stand Down was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications for veterans who want to attend the Stand Down are available at the Santa Barbara County Veterans Stand Down website at www.sbcountystanddown. com or by calling Santa Barbara County Supervisor Steve Lavagnino’s office at 805-346-8402. There is no charge to veterans and their families who attend Stand Down. Stand Down organizers have created an easy link for generous donors to select much needed items at Walmart.com and have them delivered directly to Stand Down. Follow the directions at www. sbcountystanddown.com and select from dozens of items needed by veterans. Stand Down volunteers will also be available at a drive-thru donation center throughout September and October at the Santa Maria Fairpark. The site at the small
livestock barn (enter at Gate 5, on West Stowell at Depot Street) will be open from noon to 2 p.m. on Sept. 22, Sept. 29, Oct. 6 and Oct. 13. A collection in Lompoc will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 2-3 at Walmart, 701 W. Central Ave. New items, such as towels, underwear, socks and shirts are greatly needed. Stand Down organizers are also in need of volunteer barbers and stylists for the event. Please email volunteer@sbcountystanddown.com for more information. Free transportation courtesy of the Chumash Casino will be provided for veterans, with bus pick-ups in Santa Barbara, Isla Vista, Solvang, Buellton and Lompoc. Schedules are online at www.SBCountyStandDown.com. New this year will be a free shuttle service to the Stand Down from San Luis Obispo County, courtesy of San Luis Obispo Veterans Services Collaborative and RideOn Transportation. Sites will be located in Paso Robles, Atascadero, Los Osos, San Luis Obispo and Grover Beach. Times and addresses are under the transportation tab at www.SBCountyStandDown.com. The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department will provide veterans with free COVID-19 vaccinations and testing, as well as flu shots. For volunteer opportunities, please email volunteer@sbcountystanddown.com. Major donors this year include CoastHills Credit Union, Santa Ynez Opportunity Shop, the Northern Trust Co., American Legion Unit 125, Allan Hancock College, Kirk & Simas, the Housing Authority of Santa Barbara County and the Santa Barbara Elks Lodge No. 613 Groovin’ in the Grove Classic Car and Vintage Trailer Show. Food for veterans and volunteers is graciously being donated by the Santa Barbara County Cattlemen’s Association and IBEW/NECA.
Willemsen Barn Event to help raise funds for Meals on Wheels By Raiza Giorgi
publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com
S
ince the beginning of the year, the Buellton Senior Center has distributed more than 1 million pounds of food to locals from all around the Valley and neighboring towns. Executive Director Pam Gnekow said a grant she recently received said their fund distribution of $75,000 is being moved to next March instead of October of this year. “It completely destroyed me,” Gnekow said. “This grant I rely on getting the funds to pay for the increase in meals we are serving and covering the increased food costs. I literally haven’t slept trying to think of ways to fill this funding gap. “I am so thankful to the recent opening of the Holy Grounds Coffee Shop (see page 7) that will hopefully help supplement along with our upcoming event.” The Buellton Senior Center serves approximately 350 meals per day at the cost of $5 each. Some of the seniors can cover that cost, but Gnekow said more than half are on a scholarship as they cannot afford it. “When COVID hit we didn’t know just how many of our seniors were living below poverty level,” she said. “Surviving on a can of soup or whatever scraps they had in their house. They would shop at discount stores and go to other organizations offering meals or groceries, but after the pandemic they were all too scared to
leave their homes.” Gnekow was already working with the City of Buellton to create an event to introduce the Valley’s newest event site the Willemsen Barn, and she hopes that it will generate enough funds to fill the gap until next spring. The “Welcome to the Barn” event will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 16, at 202 Dairyland Road. It will feature great food and music by Jeff Pine and special guest Zach Hulshizer. It will serve as a fundraiser to the Meals on Wheels program. “Zach’s rendition of the National Anthem will melt you,” Gnekow said. “He will be singing it along side of the local VFW who will be presenting the colors.” The Barn will be an event and meeting space, with other portions of the 24-acre Willemsen property being used by local nonprofits as well as becoming the future home of the Buellton Library. The property was purchased by the city of Buellton in May 2020 for $2 million. Tickets to the event are $75 and can be purchased www.buelltonseniorcenter.org or email info@buelltonseniorcenter.org. If you cannot make the event or simply want to help towards the Meals on Wheels program, visit https://buelltonseniorcenter.org
o VETERANS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 Jan. 14, 2022. Parties needing assistance with the required military service documentation may contact the Santa Barbara County Veterans Service Office at 805681-4500 or 805-346-7160. Downloadable flyers and applications are available in English and Spanish on the SBCEO website at www.SBCEO.org Completed applications may be
emailed to vcantella@sbceo.org or mailed to the Santa Barbara County Education Office, Attn: Valerie Cantella, P.O. Box 6307, Santa Barbara, CA 93160-6307. For questions, contact Valerie Cantella, SBCEO director of communications, 805-9644711, ext. 5282, or vcantella@sbceo.org.
6 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
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October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 7
Holy Grounds is Solvang’s divinely inspired coffee house Church opens establishment to benefit a couple of worthy causes By Pamela Dozois
A
Contributing Writer
new coffee house has opened in Solvang called Holy Grounds. Having opened Aug. 25, it is located at the Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church on Alamo Pintado in Solvang. Proceeds from the coffee shop will benefit Meals on Wheels and Santa Ynez Valley Community Outreach. Pam Gnekow, the executive director of the Buellton Senior Center who is also a deacon at the Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church, heard that the church wanted to open up a space in the building for fellowship, a place where people could come and enjoy a cup of coffee and some tasty pastries or a quick lunch. “We held several meetings and I listened to the various ideas from local coffee house businesses that were interested in acquiring the space,” said Gnekow. Yoli De Young had originally built the space for a coffee house for the church. After 10 years it needed a face lift. so whatever business came in they would have to make it their own. “There is a song called ‘God of this City’ and there’s a line in that song that I couldn’t get out of my head,” said Gnekow. “The lyrics are ‘For greater things have yet to come and greater things are still to be done in this city.’ The more I kept thinking about it, an idea came to me. “At the very last meeting I proposed to the committee a business plan in which the Buellton Senior Center and Santa Ynez Valley Community Outreach would partner with the church and open a coffee house. We would remodel, update, and make it commercial grade,” explained Gnekow. “The coffee house could then fund the Meals on Wheels Program and the Community Outreach at the Buellton Senior Center. Both these projects are already part of the Presbyterian Church’s mission as they donate money every year to them. I saw this place where some of the business people could come for meetings and people could come for fellowship, good food, and amazing coffee.” Gnekow said that at first everyone was a little stunned at her proposal, but the idea was then
Jeanette Wolfe, Pam Gnekow and Barbara Meeks are running the new Holy Grounds coffee shop in Ballard. Photos by Barry Sigman A new coffee house has opened in Solvang called Holy Grounds, run by Pam Gnekow, a Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church deacon, and proceeds will benefit Meals on Wheels and Santa Ynez Valley Community Outreach.
immediately embraced with open arms. “I wish I could describe how the community came together,” said Gnekow. “The Los Olivos Rotary came in and painted the entire coffee shop. It took six weeks from beginning to end to complete the project.” John Mathews and his wife Cindy were the general contractors. Their daughter, Laura Mathews, owner of A Piece of the Past antique store, designed the interior from beginning to end and helped pull it together “on a shoestring.” Victor Milian, Peter Robbins and Erin Gnekow helped with construction. “We were working on a deadline. Everyone stayed late and worked hard to accomplish the project by the August 25th deadline, come hell or highwater,” said Gnekow. After that it was up to Gnekow to hire a staff for the coffee house. “Jeanette Wolfe was our very first employee. We reached out to our pre-school moms to give them the first opportunity to work. Wolfe responded immediately and we were so excited,” explained Gnekow. “We knew we had a beautiful place and we knew a lot about baking and cooking but we knew nothing about coffee or running a coffee shop. So, this endeavor was a leap of faith. As the song says, ‘There are greater things to be done.’” Linda Linton, assistant director of the Buellton Senior Center suggested to Gnekow that she
should get in touch with Barbara Meeks. “Barbara Meeks owned the best coffee house in town, the Bull Dog Café. Call her!” said Linton. “So, I did,” Gnekow said. “Barbara was so excited about the concept of the church giving to the community that she said, ‘I’m all in!’ After Barbara came on board, we became a legitimate Coffee Café. Now all we needed was great coffee.” The duo then took a trip to San Luis Obispo to meet Mike Knight, the owner of Coastal Peaks. They told him of their plans and he now supplies and roasts the coffee beans for the café. They offer four blends of free-trade, organic coffee. “Mike made us our own blend called Holy Grounds Café, which we also sell to the public,” Gnekow said. “He has been a great help to us in so many ways.” Stacy McNabb, the chef at the Buellton Senior Center then came on board, making sandwiches and salads. Meeks and the Solvang Bakery supply their baked goods and pastries. “With our team in place we were off and running,” said Gnekow. “Since our grand opening on August 25, we’ve been doing better than we ever expected. We are also on DoorDash Food Courier, so you can order online and get your food delivered.” “This year from January 1 to August 31 Community Outreach has provided one million
eight hundred pounds of free fresh produce to the Valley including Los Alamos,” Gnekow said with pride. “Proceeds from this coffee shop go directly to supporting the SYV Community Outreach and Meals on Wheels. We serve 330 Meals on Wheels each day.” “This has been so much fun merging the Presbyterian Church with the Bull Dog Café,” said Meeks. “Most of my life has revolved around the Presbyterian Church and the Bull Dog Café. Both are my passions.” Gnekow is one of those people who comes up with great ideas and has the ability to miraculously attract the best people to get the job done. During this interview Connie Kruse of Santa Maria dropped into the café. “I was on my way to an appointment and noticed the sign and thought I would stop by for a cup of coffee on my way back,” explained Kruse. “Driving into the parking lot I was touched by the sheer beauty of grounds, with all the trees. I felt that this was a God-filled moment. “I hit it off with the ladies here, their warmth and generous spirits. I felt like it was home, so I decided right there and then to volunteer and help out. It’s nice to be a part of something that touches people’s lives.”
Holy Grounds is at 1825 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang. To order or for more information, call or text 805-245-3643. Visit www.buelltonseniorcenter.org, Instagram, or Facebook for daily specials and upcoming events. Holy Grounds is open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Wifi is available.
8 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
Cannabis farmers, watchdog group reach historic deal in Carpinteria Valley Groups work together to create plan dealing with cannabis odors Staff Report
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ollowing 11 months of collaborative dialogue, the Santa Barbara County Coalition for Responsible Cannabis (Coalition) and CARP Growers reached a historic agreement on Aug. 20, ensuring cannabis farms work in cooperation with the community group to resolve odor issues in a proactive and cooperative way across Carpinteria Valley. The agreement holds all CARP Growers member farms accountable to a partnership with the coalition and a detailed odor abatement plan outlining a new expanded odor response process, and a comprehensive program to develop and implement next-generation odor technologies. Community engagement in the plan will be encouraged for reporting, investigating, and resolving cannabis odor incidents. The coalition was formed in 2019 to advocate for closer oversight of cannabis farming and relief for odor nuisances in Carpinteria Valley and across Santa Barbara County. The coalition has been an active participant in the Santa Barbara County cannabis permitting process, appealing cannabis projects that do not meet its community-focused standards. “In partnership with CARP Growers, the
coalition developed a comprehensive voluntary upgrade to the county’s odor control program,” said Rob Salomon, coalition board member. “All CARP Growers members will comply with that program, and unlike today, odor will not be tolerated in schools, parks and public areas. “We credit CARP Growers and its member farms for coming to the table with sincere dedication and a shared interest to make local cannabis farming better.” CARP Growers (Cannabis Association for Responsible Producers) was created in 2018 to foster better relationships within the community of Carpinteria and require its members to follow best farming practices, including using best available odor control technology. Each CARP Growers member will be individually bound to the agreement at more than 20 farm project sites at existing greenhouses across Carpinteria Valley. “We appreciate the coalition for working
with us and building trust over these many months,” said Tristan Strauss, CARP Growers vice president and CEO of Headwaters, which operates several farms in Carpinteria and a statewide cannabis wholesale network. “As fellow members of the community, CARP Growers are eager and motivated to eliminate odor issues. “This agreement will create a new, more transparent odor complaint response program, where residents can work directly with operators to track and resolve odor issues.” The coalition has previously negotiated odor abatement plans with individual cannabis farms, but the settlement represents the broadest group of cannabis farms and a proactive and expansive plan to resolve odor issues on a Carpinteria Valley-wide scale. “The agreement between the Coalition and CARP Growers, including the two supporting documents developed between ourselves and the county, sets forth a comprehensive program to control odor in Carpinteria,” said coalition
attorney Marc Chytilo. “We are currently partnering with the CARP Growers regarding research and development to identify viable alternatives to vapor phase, including carbon scrubbers that are designed to mitigate odors in venting greenhouses,” he said. The agreement includes monitoring for odor-causing compounds; a system of wind stations to help identify odor sources; use of the best available odor controls; expansion of areas where odor is not allowed; and a tiered response system to address odor incidents quickly and comprehensively. “I’m very proud of our association for negotiating such an expansive and historic agreement which will truly create more transparency and accountability with our neighbors long-term,” said Autumn Shelton, CARP Growers president and co-owner of Autumn Brands farm in Carpinteria. “We have made enormous investments in advancing the science and research and development around odor over the last year,” she said. “This is a new scientific field, and we are learning a lot each day about what compounds cause odors, and how to best mitigate and monitor odor.”
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October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 9
The Alisal named best destination resort by USA Today’s 10Best Staff Report
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ometimes a hotel is simply a place to lay your head at night, and sometimes it’s a destination in its own right. The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort was recently named the Best Destination Resort by USA Today’s 10Best. “We are honored that The Alisal has been recognized as the top destination by this readers’ choice award as we celebrate the ranch’s 75th year,” said Kathleen Cochran, general manager of The Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort. “Our mission has always been, and continues to be, to provide a luxe California ranch escape that celebrates the unique culture, history, food, and beauty of our home in the Santa Ynez Valley. We are thrilled to receive this recognition by our valued guests, and look forward to welcoming both new and returning visitors to The Alisal for a ranch getaway like no other,”
The top 10 in the category Best Destination Resort were as follows:
1. The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort - Solvang 2. Hidden Pond - Kennebunkport, Maine 3. Acqualina Resort & Residences - Sunny Isles Beach, Florida
Photo contributed The Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort's origin dates to 1843, and has kept its Western-flair hospitality.
4. Garden of the Gods Resort - Colorado Springs, Colorado 5. Primland - Meadows of Dan, Virginia 6. Omni Mount Washington Resort - Bretton Woods, New Hampshire 7. Montage Palmetto Bluff - Bluffton, South Carolina 8. French Lick Resort - French Lick, Indiana 9. Barnsley Resort - Adairsville, Georgia 10. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel – Waimea,
Hawaii Each of these U.S. resorts were chosen by a panel of 10Best travel experts and are travel-worthy, complete with plush accommodations, world-class dining, relaxing spa treatments and a host of indoor and outdoor activities — a complete vacation in a single package, according to the article in USA Today. The Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort’s origin
dates to 1843, during which it was known as Rancho Nojoqui, and the property has been a working ranch ever since. It was renamed in 1868 as The Alisal, translating from the Chumash language to mean “Grove of the Sycamores.” The Alisal became the hotel is known as now in July 1946, when Charles Pete Jackson Jr. and his family opened the dude ranch for lodging. Since then, The Alisal has kept its Western-flair hospitality, and has been home to everything from celebrity weddings, championship cycling training and even Flying Ebony, the 1925 Kentucky Derby winner. The cattlemen’s quarters that once fed grub to cowboys is now a restaurant; deer can still be seen grazing, though these days it is often on The Alisal’s 18-hole golf courses; and horses and cattle roam grass-covered hills that have changed little since the days of the Spanish vaquero. To learn more about all the resorts listed visit www.10best.com/awards/travel/ best-destination-resort-2021/.
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How do you know if you Santa Ynez General expands brand with second location are ‘beating a dead horse’? itsOwners Pearson and Spencer Ian Jacobsen CMC Emeritus, FIMC Contributing Writer
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ersistence as a leader is a virtue — to a point. As the song goes, “You’ve got to know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ‘em, know when to walk away, and know when to run.” How do you know when you are “beating a dead horse?” “Dead horses” have a common characteristic: No matter what you do, you cannot bring them back to life. No matter how many veterinarians you take them to, they are dead. As a leader, you have what you consider to be a great idea. Others believe in it, too, and encourage you. You decide to experiment. You involve interested parties, draw up your plans and implement them. Your results are underwhelming. What did you miss? So you conduct a “post mortem” and learn some things that you could have done differently. You modify your plan and try again, and again, and again. No matter what you try your results are unsatisfactory. Not everything that seems to be a good idea actually is. How many products or services can you think of that have languished? What happened to Betamax? Where is Visicalc today? Edsels are only in car collections. Some fell victim to the competition. Some were a solution in search of a problem. Some were because of bad
timing. Some were because of faulty execution. The graveyard of failed products and services is overflowing! How can you tell if you have a “dead horse?” Here are some indications: n If you have exhausted everything within your power to make something work, and it still doesn’t, you’ve got a “dead horse.” n If you discover that there are better alternatives to your “horse,” it is heading for the graveyard. n If no one can imagine a way to modify your idea or promote it more successfully, you have a “dead horse.” Don’t despair! “Dead horses” can still be useful. So long as you have learned something from your venture it’s not a complete loss. It is just another one of life’s lessons and, hopefully, no damage was done in the process. Look for the take-aways from this lesson that will improve your chances of success for your next adventure. Ian Jacobsen is the President of the Solvang Rotary Club and will be giving two talks about “10 Keys to Effective Leadership for Not-for-profit Organizations” at the Solvang Senior Center this month. The first is 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 5, and the second from 9 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 9. Contact him at iancjacobsen@gmail. com, or by phone at 408-427-4698.
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Turnbull open apparel storefront Staff Report
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n late summer 2021, Santa Ynez General debuted not only its second location but also its exclusive line of Italian-made clothing and accessories. Husband duo Pearson and Spencer Turnbull are thrilled to expand their lifestyle and design shop (located on Sagunto Street across from the Santa Ynez Inn), with their new apparel storefront (located next to Pony Espresso). “After a couple of years since we first opened here in Santa Ynez, we’re thrilled to further integrate ourselves into the region with the debut of our second location,” Pearson Turnbull said. “The new space provides us with an opportunity to bring a larger variety of brands to Santa Ynez, with a focus on California-based artisans.” They founded Santa Ynez General in 2019 with a vision of creating a luxury design shop. Pearson previously had a career in fashion, working at Giorgio Armani and Neiman Marcus; and Spencer was previously an attorney. Spencer Turnbull is originally from the Santa Ynez Valley and decided with Pearson to open a destination home store. This month they celebrate their second
Photo contributed Santa Ynez General store offers a blend of household items and clothing at their second location.
anniversary of their design store as well as the new location. To learn more about their stores visit their website at www.santaynezgeneral.com or follow them on Instagram. They are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 11
Cottage Health appoints Kevin Davidson as a new vice president UC San Diego grad to head up ambulatory health services Staff Report
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ottage Health has named Kevin Davidson as the vice president of ambulatory services and network development. In this position, he provides leadership and direction for Cottage’s ambulatory health services, including Cottage Urgent Care, the Grotenhuis Pediatric Clinics and Cottage’s specialty clinics. Davidson brings over 20 years of experience and demonstrated leadership skills for
strategic growth, ambulatory expansion, physician alignment and digital health. He was most recently the vice president of business development and strategic services at MemorialCare Health System in Fountain Valley, where he developed an expansive ambulatory service line and led growth and innovation initiatives for its medical group and Independent Physicians Association (IPA) divisions. Prior to his time at MemorialCare, Davidson was the chief strategy officer for PersonalCare Physicians, a concierge med
ical practices group in Irvine. He also held executive director roles at Banner Medical Group/Banner Health System in Phoenix and at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Newport Beach. Davidson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from UC San Diego, and Master of Healthcare Administration from the University of Minnesota.
Photo contributed Cottage Health has named Kevin Davidson as its vice president of ambulatory services and network development.
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October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 13
Santa Barbara Celebrity Classic comes to SYV Golf tournament to be held Oct. 10-11 at The Alisal Staff Report
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he Santa Barbara Celebrity Classic is taking place for the first time at the River Course at the Alisal
in Solvang, on Oct. 10 and 11. The event will feature 24 celebrities from the world of sports and entertainment, according to event organizers. “It has always been a dream of mine to bring a celebrity golf tournament to the Santa Ynez Valley,” said Joe Kolina, tournament secretary. “As a kid, going to the Santa Ynez Valley was always a special time for me and my family and here is my chance to give back — but we need everyone’s collective support so that we can make a lasting impact on others for future generations.” Some of the celebrity attendees that have confirmed to attend include Santa Barbara native and New York Mets player Jeff Mc-
Neil along with former MLB players Vince Coleman, Royce Clayton, Steve Lyons and Jim Leyritz. Other former athletes to appear will be NFL Hall of Famer Andre Reed, NBA player Olden Polynice, NHL player Kraig Neinhaus and beach volleyball player Bruk Vandeweghe. Kolina said he hopes the Santa Barbara Celebrity Classic will soon become one of the premier celebrity golf and hospitality experiences along the Central Coast. The event is an annual celebrity pro-am event offering golfers the ability to participate in a first-class tournament while helping raise significant funds for the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation.
The Santa Barbara Celebrity Classic is a team event using a Shamble format. All golfers will tee off and then the group will select the best tee shot. Everyone will hit their own ball toward the hole from the selected tee shot. To learn more about the Santa Barbara Celebrity Classic or to register visit www. sbcelebrityclassic.com. If you cannot attend the event but would like to make a donation to the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation visit www.sbcelebrityclassic.com/donate/. Photo Contributed River Course at The Alisal
Small-town charm returns with Los Olivos Day in the Country
Attendees encouraged to patronize local businesses during event By Raiza Giorgi
publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com
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f there’s one thing the Santa Ynez Valley does right, it’s small-town charm, and there’s no better time to see it for yourself with the annual Los Olivos Day in the Country. There is a whole day of fun family activities scheduled from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 16. The day starts with the NatureTrack 5K and Fun Run at 7 a.m. Also starting at 7 a.m., and served until sold out, is a burrito breakfast produced by members of the Lucky Clover 4-H Club at the Los Olivos Community Organization Hall (formerly known as the Santa Ynez Valley Grange Hall). All the running and walking will be followed by the parade at 10 a.m., which showcases tractors, classic cars, local organizations and businesses walking up Grand Avenue.
Photo Contributed A new effort has been launched by Santa Barbara Humane to provide dog training to families with German shepherds and Siberian huskies.
The streets will be lined with more than 100 vendor booths and a beer garden at Figueroa Mountain Brewing. Also on tap is the Wine Roundup, which provides tasters with a ticketed Roundup Pass good
for both Saturday and Sunday ($35 per person; 21 and over), allowing them more than 18 tastes from at least nine local wineries including Epiphany Cellars, Larner Vineyard & Winery, E11even Wines by Andrew Murray, Arthur Earl, Coqueli-
cot, Liquid Farm, Samsara and others. Food trucks and pop-ups will mingle with shopping opportunities for original, local artisan goods as well as live music. Don’t miss the NatureTrack Film Festival, Igniting Passion for Nature Through Film! This all-nature related film festival is ready for everyone to enjoy in a hybrid way: in-person on Oct. 16 at St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Church, and continues online for two weeks to view the award-winning films from the first three years combined with new, carefully curated documentaries. Online viewing is expanded from last year. Folks will also be able to walk around town to see all the Scarecrow Fest entries and vote for their favorites. Day in the Country is produced by the Los Olivos Chamber of Commerce, a volunteer organization that funds town services such as maintenance for the village’s central flagpole, public restroom facilities and trash removal. For more information and tickets, go to www. losolivosca.com.
14 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
Misnamed October was when time as we know it began
By John Copeland Contributing Writer
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t is October, the 10th month of the year. October was actually the eighth month of the year on the ancient Roman calendar. Its name comes from the Latin “octo,” meaning “eight.” The Romans’ calendar was originally lunar and based on the phases of the moon. It had only 10 months. Their year only totaled 304 days. The Romans had to regularly adjust their calendar to keep in sync with the seasons and over centuries their calendar got seriously messed up. By 47 B.C., the Roman calendar was a mess. It was 67 days ahead of the true year. Julius Caesar used his authority as the dictator of the Roman world to fix it. Even though he was a student of astronomy, Caesar was hardly up to the task of revising the calendar. He called on a person who today is pretty much forgotten: an astronomer named Sosigenes. Absolutely nothing is preserved in history about Sosigenes — except that he was an Alexandrian Greek, a person of Greek de-
scent living in Alexandria, Egypt. For all his anonymity, Sosigenes came up with a calendar that is still the foundation of the one we use today. Sosigenes’ new calendar had 365 days, with an additional day added every fourth year in February. The alternate months of the year — January, March, May, July, September and November — had 31 days; the intervening months each had 30 days with the exception of February which had only 28 and in leap years 29. But, before Sosigenes’ reformed calendar could be launched, the chronology of the year had to be brought back into sync with the seasons. Caesar decreed that the year 46 B.C. would have 445 days. Across the Roman Empire it was called the year of confusion. (I actually have years like that myself.) The new calendar also rearranged the established order of the months. Instead of beginning in March, the beginning of spring, as the old Roman calendar had, Sosigenes began his on Jan. 1. This is why the ninth month, September, is named after the number seven, October after eight, November after nine and December after ten. And of course, Julius Caesar got all the credit for the reform and the calendar even bears his name — the Julian calendar. I’ve always been interested with calendars and measuring time. Time is our window on the world; we use it to create order and shape the world in which we live. We use time to measure grand things, like the rise and fall of civilizations, and small things, like the incre-
ments of our individual lives. We have many methods for measuring things, but we have only one system to measure time. The “tools” we use to measure time are the clock and calendar. Clocks, either analog or digital, are always in the “present,” letting us know that time is passing. Calendars are linear, made up of boxes that contain everything that happens in a day. When the day’s over, that box is done. I have always found calendars cool, because they show yesterday, today and tomorrow — past, present and future. Calendars are based on three astronomical cycles: The day, which is the time from one sunrise to the next — about 24 hours; the month, which is one complete orbit of the moon around Earth, is approximately 29.53 days; and the year, which is one complete orbit of Earth around the sun, is approximately 365.24 days. The length of both the year and month are averages. The real length of a year varies by several minutes because of due the influence of gravity from the sun and all the other planets in our solar system. Because of these constant changes, calendars have always been imperfect and within a few years can drift out of sync with the seasons. The only real problem with the Julian calendar was its handling of leap years. As centuries passed, the Julian calendar became increasingly inaccurate with respect to the seasons. This was especially troubling to the Roman Catholic Church because it affected the determination of the date of Easter, which, by the 1500s,
Trinity
was well on the way to slipping into summer. Western nations measured time using the Julian calendar until 1582, when Pope Gregory XIII authorized a correction to the calendar that made a closer approximation to the actual length of time it takes for Earth to complete one orbit around the sun. The resulting new calendar was named for Pope Gregory and is the calendar system that we use today. This calendar still has an error factor of three days every 10,000 years, so eventually a correction will have to be made. But who knows? Earthquakes could change the length of a day enough by then to render the change unnecessary. At this point, you are probably wondering, what does this have to do with October? Well, it was on Oct. 4, 1582, that the Gregorian calendar took effect in Catholic countries as Pope Gregory XIII issued a decree stating the day following Thursday, October 4, 1582, would be Friday, October 15, 1582, correcting a 10-day error accumulated by the Julian calendar, which is why the month of October marks the beginning of time as we know it. But there is a caveat — most Protestant countries did not embrace the Gregorian calendar until years later. Britain waited 200 years. England and the Americas did not adopt the Gregorian calendar until 1752.
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Military Ball to honor veterans, active service members Francis Gary Powers Jr. is featured speaker at Nov. 6 formal event Staff Report
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ierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation (PCVF) will present the 24th annual Military Ball to honor local veterans and active duty service members from 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6, at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. The event will feature guest speaker Francis Gary Powers Jr, an author, historian and lecturer. The Military Ball is a formal event where attendees can connect and celebrate during an evening of live music, cocktail hour, silent auction, three-course dinner and dancing. Guests will also have a chance to shop in PCVF’s GI Bag pop-up shop. GI Bags are individually crafted handbags and totes from donated upcycled military uniforms. PCVF co-founding director John Blankenship invites the greater Santa Barbara community, fellow service members and friends of PCVF to attend. “We look forward to welcoming our guests
back to the 24th annual Military Ball after missing this event last year,” he said. “We’ve developed a logistical plan to create a safe, inviting, in-person atmosphere where we can enjoy a wonderful evening of conversation and camaraderie. “PCVF is looking forward to honoring our local veterans, so when you see someone at the ball in their dress uniform, be sure to say ‘Thank you for your service.’” Guests will enjoy the rhythmic sounds of The Replicas Music, a team of professionally trained musicians and singers who have toured and recorded with top names in the music industry. The Replicas have entertained for organizations such as NASA, Google, LinkedIn, GM, Ford, AppFolio and UBS Bank. They recently performed at the famous Rainbow Room in New York City. The evening program will open with a color guard, representing all four branches of the military. Guest speaker Powers is the son of Francis Gary Powers Sr., who was involved in one of the most consequential events of the Cold War — the downing of the American CIA U-2 spy plane he piloted over the Soviet Union on May 1, 1960.
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Powers Jr. consulted for the Steven Spielberg Cold War thriller “Bridge of Spies,” which tells the story of James Donovan, who brokered the 1962 spy exchange between KGB spy Rudolph Abel and Powers Sr., who was captured by the KGB, subjected to a televised show trial, and imprisoned, all of which created an international incident. Powers Sr. was exonerated of any wrongdoing on his return to the U.S., yet a cloud of controversy lingered until his death in 1977. “Spy Pilot,” a new book authored by Powers Jr., details the U-2 Incident and controversial Cold War legacy that involves his father. Published in 2019, this new account of his father’s life is based on personal files not previously available. Powers Jr. sets the record straight by researching old audio tapes, the transcript of his father’s debriefing by the CIA, other recently declassified documents about the U-2 program, and interviews with his military colleagues. Powers Jr. is the founder/chairman emeritus of The Cold War Museum, a 501(c) (3) charity. He founded the museum in 1996 to honor Cold War veterans, preserve Cold War history, and educate future generations about this time period. As chairman of the Presidential Advisory
Committee for the Cold War Theme Study he works with the National Park Service and leading Cold War experts to identify historic Cold War sites for commemorating, interpreting and preservation. Powers Jr. is also the author of “Letters from a Soviet Prison” (2017), serves as a board member of the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum near Omaha, Nebraska, and is an honorary board member of the International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C. Because of his efforts to honor Cold War veterans, the Junior Chamber of Commerce selected Powers Jr. as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Americans for 2002. He lectures internationally and appears regularly on C-SPAN, the History, Discovery, and A&E Channels. Tickets to the Military Ball are $175 per guest. Dress uniform or black-tie attire is optional. Enhanced COVID-19 health and safety measures will be in place and space is limited to 300 guests. To purchase tickets, visit: https://www.pcvf. org/military-ball. For more about Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation, visit pcvf.org or call 805-259-4394.
16 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
SB County Farm Day grows better understanding of ag industry More than a dozen sites host visitors to 'Meet the Hands That Feed You' By Janene Scully
Noozhawk North County Editor
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rriving by the carloads, families got to see, touch and taste northern Santa Barbara County’s agricultural industry while standing in the middle of what one grower called “some of the most valuable farm ground on the planet.” Saturday, Sept. 18, marked the third annual Santa Barbara County Farm Day with the theme of “Meet the Hands That Feed You.” More than a dozen sites hosted visitors for free, self-guided tours that let them learn and leave with both information and produce. At Innovative Produce, on Simas Road between Santa Maria and Guadalupe, sixth-generation farmer George Adam talked with friends and strangers alike as his crew demonstrated machines for prepping celery and Brussels sprouts for market. “I think there’s a lot of misconceptions about how food is really produced,” he
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Photos by Janene Scully At Innovative Produce, visitors learn about the harvesting of celery and Brussels sprouts during Santa Barbara County Farm Day on Sept. 18.
said. “We try to get the truth out there as much as we can, and the best thing for people to really get the full understanding of what’s going on is to come out to an event like this.” With more than 15 commodities grown on nearly 2,000 acres of land, Adam said they must plan crops years in advance. “We have to plan it out for labor, for sales and for plant health rotation,” he added. After previously farming with cousins, Adam formed Innovative Produce in 2008. For Farm Day, the business gave away lettuce, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, hats, reusable bags and sips of green juice for visitors who drove down a dirt road past lush produce fields and assorted farm equipment. In a field behind some buildings, employees demonstrated machines used for harvesting celery, prepping and packaging stalks made into ready-to-eat sticks. “Yep, you can eat them. All you need is peanut butter,” an Innovative Produce employee said while handing out bags of celery sticks. FARM DAY CONTINUED TO PAGE 17
o
October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 17
o FARM DAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 Other machines demonstrated how they free Brussels sprouts from their thick, leafy stalks so the orbs can be sent to stores. As workers demonstrated how the machines operated, visitors stood nearby watching and listening before asking questions. Santa Maria resident Denise Yamamoto soaked up the information that she learned at Innovative Produce and other Farm Day stops. “I think it’s amazing,” she said. “It’s showing me to appreciate how your food starts … all the way up to the part where it’s packaged and then comes to us as a consumer. That’s amazing. I’ve never considered that before.” Her multigeneration group started their Farm Day tours at Engel & Gray with composting as the focus to teach about the vital nutrients, water-holding capacity and other benefits it brings growers. In addition to letting youths climb into heavy equipment, Engel & Gray educated visitors about composting, providing pots, dirt and seedlings ready for transplant and to be taken home. “We like to explain what composting’s about,” co-owner Bob Engel said. “One of the messages we try to get to the public is to try to keep the green clean because everybody throws their garbage into the green can, and then we get it and we have to deal
Hands-on activities at Engel & Gray give youths and adults an opportunity to plant vegetables in pots.
An Engel & Gray truck serves as the backdrop for a photo with a Santa Barbara County Farm Day frame.
with it in the composting business.” He said he had to run out for more pots after the activity proved popular with attendees at the event. Formed to provide trucking for oil fields, Engel & Gray added composting in 1993, beginning with the ag industry and later helping an old feed lot owner before the business expanded. Today, Engel & Gray, marking its 75th anniversary, boasts being the only commercial composting company on the Central Coast. The number of visitors who showed up Saturday appeared to top the first Farm Day two years ago, Engel said. The 2020 version remained a virtual event because of the COVID-19 pandemic. “People are so interested; they’re just eating it up,” he said as another large group arrived at the Engel & Gray lot on West Betteravia Road. “It’s just been steady,” he said. “A lot of families, which is really neat.” The Santa Barbara County Farm Day builds upon the success of a similar event in Ventura County, which will host its ninth annual edition on Nov. 6. Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture, or SEEAG, a Ventura-based nonprofit organization focused on educating children about the origins of their food from field to table, organizes both Farm Day events. Noozhawk North County editor Janene Scully can be reached at jscully@noozhawk.com.
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18 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
SBCEO hosts second annual Youth Empowerment Summit Staff Report
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he Santa Barbara County Education Office invites youth, educators, parents and guardians, and professionals supporting youth to attend the second annual Youth Empowerment Summit from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 27. This summit offers information, strategies and practices to empower youth in foster care and experiencing homelessness to thrive. The virtual event format allows attendees to participate in unlimited sessions at no cost. “The SBCEO Youth Empowerment Summit provides a wide variety of valuable sessions and resources so that all audience members can deepen and expand learning around supports for youth in the foster care
system and youth experiencing homelessness,” said Dr. Susan Salcido, the Santa Barbara County superintendent of schools. “The Transitional Youth Services team at SBCEO looks forward to welcoming students, their families, and the people and organizations that serve them to the Youth Empowerment Summit for a day of inspiration, learning and growth.” This event features keynote addresses from Dr. Steve Perry, educator and bestselling author, and Melissa Roshan (MelRo), an inspirational speaker, children’s advocate, former foster youth and professional model. Throughout the day, sessions will focus on participant roles, such as students, parent/guardians, educators and service providers, and include topics such as trauma-informed care, child exploitation and human trafficking, financial support for
college and more. Registration is free and find more event information at sbceo.org/YOUTHSUMMIT. Registration closes on Oct. 22. For questions, please contact Elizabeth Adams, Transitional Youth Services program manager, at 805-705-3148 or elizabethadams@sbceo.org.
Talk Early! Talk Often. Tell them that marijuana can harm their developing brain. Parents and mentors can have an impact on whether or not youth use cannabis (marijuana, weed, pot). You can help prevent underage use by starting the conversation about cannabis
October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 19
‘To help someone walk, who otherwise cannot’ Exoskeleton holds promise for people with spinal cord injury to walk again By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer
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CI Research Advancement recently purchased an exoskeleton from ReWalk Robotics. Over the weekend of Aug. 28, Business Development Manager Southwest and Physical Therapist Matt Fuller visited Rob Rosenberry Physical Therapy for a training session for the physical therapists who will be part of a study led by Physical Therapist Evan Howe. The study is scheduled to last six to nine months using the exoskeleton three times a week. Rob Rosenberry has generously offered his facility in which to perform the study and to house the exoskeleton and is involved as a team member. All those involved in this project are volunteers. They include Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Tim Gauthier, Physical Therapy Assistant Nick Simon and PTA and Athletic Trainer Michelle Leyva. The first participant in the study is Will Ambler, founder of SCI Research Advancement. “Standing and taking steps for the first time in decades was difficult and a significant change in perspective. Struggling to balance in an exoskeleton is a workout, but once I was able to feel a little comfortable in this new machine, I was able to look around from the position that was once normal for me,” Ambler said. “After sitting in a wheelchair for years and accustomed to looking up at everyone, it was amazing to stand next to a group of people and be the tallest person in the room. I was no longer looking at everyone’s chest but rather looking at the top of their heads.” After spending a few hours standing and walking in the exoskeleton it was once again time for Ambler to return to sitting in a wheelchair, until his next session, which will be
Photos by Devyn Marseilles Preparing for the first attempt using the exoskeleton are, from left, Nick Simon, Evan Howe, Will Ambler, Tim Gauthier and Matt Fuller.
Will Ambler takes the first few steps in the exoskeleton with the assistance of Matt Fuller, Evan Howe and Michelle Leyva.
ongoing during the study. “These are small steps aided by an exoskeleton and with more work and a little luck, these small steps will lead me and many other paralyzed people to a day when we will be able to stand and walk as I did before I suffered a spinal cord injury,” said Ambler. “We want to see if the robot could be utilized as standard of care for future spinal cord injury rehabilitation,” said Howe. “Hopefully when the study is completed, we will be able to open it up to the spinal cord injury community.” In order to make the exoskeleton available to the community, SCI Research Advancement and Rob Rosenberry Physical Therapy will be fundraising for the accessory kit which will allow the physical therapists to fit the device for individual use. The cost of the accessories is $13,000.
“Building relations with ReWalk and Matt Fuller is such a great experience and I am so excited to see what the future holds and how many more people we will be able to help,” said Howe. For Fuller, the feeling was mutual. “The clinicians and staff at Rob Rosenberry Physical Therapy are ideal for taking on a project like the study being conducted by SCI Research Advancement and Will Ambler,” said Fuller. “The goal of the ReWalk exoskeleton is to help someone walk, who otherwise cannot. The group at Rob Rosenberry Physical Therapy have what it takes to maximize a rehab technology like an exoskeleton and get the most out of this tool. I’m honored to be a part of this group and I look forward to seeing the progress EXOSKELETON CONTINUED TO PAGE 28
Howe is looking at this study as a three-step process. First, doing the case study which will allow the team of therapists to get data and to improve the techniques required to assist the patient walking with the exoskeleton. Second, to raise funds to allow the team to acquire the accessory kit. And third, to open it up to the spinal cord injury community and quite possibly for individuals with neurological issues or movement disorders that affect their ability to walk. “I feel like I am carrying the torch for my father, Dr. Tony Howe, who has been with SCI Research Advancement from the beginning,” Howe said. “When Will Ambler approached me with this project, I jumped at it because I felt that we could take this to the next level and provide a piece of the puzzle from previous studies that my father and Will were involved in.”
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We’re on this path together. For 57 years, residents have relied on Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital for excellent health care.
‘Close to Home, Three Printmakers’ explores stories of Earth
New Wildling Museum exhibition features Claudia Borfiga, Karen Schroeder and Sara Woodburn Staff Report
T To sustain the strength of this valued community resource, consider donating to a charitable gift annuity and receive payments for life at fixed rates. Following your lifetime, the balance of your annuity will come to Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital as philanthropic support and continue Cottage Health’s legacy of excellence, integrity, and compassion. Your support benefits Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital’s important programs: • Patient care • Tele-stroke
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he Wildling Museum of Art and Nature is pleased to announce its upcoming exhibition, “Close to Home, Three Printmakers,” featuring artists Claudia Borfiga, Karen Schroeder and Sara Woodburn, on view in the Valley Oak gallery from Oct. 9 to February 2022. The public is invited to meet the artists on Sunday, Oct. 17 from 3 to 5 p.m. The works of Borfiga, Schroeder and Woodburn center on a recurring theme of nature as a place of solace and beauty where growth and change can seem intimate or expansive. Layers of color, pattern and printmaking are the dialogue these artists use to share stories of Earth. They value natural areas and seek to bring inspiration to the viewer. For this exhibition Borfiga was inspired by new landscapes and plants, capturing her joyfulness in places like Ganna Walksa Lotusland, the Carrizo Plain National Monument, as well as Joshua Tree and Sequoia national parks. These new works also mark a transition in her process. “After many years making screen prints using stencil exposure, I’ve recently been exploring mono screen printing; something that feels closer to drawing or painting, freeing me to be more gestural, impulsive, and playful,” Borfiga said. “These prints capture an environment I’m in constant awe of.” For Karen Schroeder, her work allows her to become a narrator through her series of new woodblock prints. The story is one of connections, a binding thread between humans and the natural world. Woodburn will present a year-long series of monthly “Quarantine Garden” woodblock prints capturing the changes and visitors to her backyard garden in
Photo contributed Artist Claudia Borfiga's "Carrizo Plain" will be featured in the upcoming Wildling Museum exhibition.
Santa Barbara, as she narrowed her daily attentions waiting for a return to “normal” over the last year and a half. “The waiting for a return to a ‘normal’ life is palpable, but bringing my attention to what is right outside and taking notice is beautiful and satisfying,” Woodburn said. These three artists each provide distinct perspectives on the art of printmaking. Also included in the exhibition will be a display of the different tools used in their individual printmaking processes, as well as insight into how different style prints are created. For more information and to follow programming updates throughout the exhibition, visit: www.wildlingmuseum.org/news/ close-to-home.
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October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 21
Brothers mark decade of competing in triathlon to help Foodbank Jacob and Joseph Mansbach are just under $12K away from fundraising goal Staff Report
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or the 10th consecutive year, the JOINJACOB triathlon team competed in the 2021 Santa Barbara Triathlon to raise funds for the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County. The team, composed of teen brothers Jacob and Joseph Mansbach, set a goal of providing 1 million meals within 10 years. JOINJACOB is $11,771 away from raising a total of $125,000 for the Foodbank and providing one million meals to people experiencing food insecurity in Santa Barbara County. To support the fundraising effort, visit https:// donate.foodbanksbc.org/campaign/join-jacob-2021/c351397. The JOINJACOB triathlon team began competing in 2012 when then-8-year-old Jacob Mansbach participated in his first Santa Barbara Triathlon with the goal of raising money for the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County to help kids at risk of hunger. Since then, Jacob and his younger brother Joseph (who took on his first triathlon at age 7) have completed the Santa Barbara and Carpinteria triathlons whenever given the opportunity (Santa Barbara’s 2018 event was canceled due to route damage from the Montecito debris flow, and both events were made virtual in 2020 because of COVID-19.) Jacob, now 17 and a high school senior; and Joseph, a 15-year-old sophomore, have continued working to increase awareness and raise funds to ensure local kids have enough to eat. “Food insecurity has staggering impacts. We tend to think of our foodbanks solving immediate near-term needs of hunger — and they do,” Jacob said. “When we start looking at the long-term adverse impacts of food insecurity on health, on education and on socio-economic success, it becomes exponentially clearer that every little bit helps. “These are our neighbors, our friends, our community. What can we do to help one another?” “Last year we saw so much support from the community, and we were able to raise money to
It’s aaskunk... bad neighbor. HINT: It’s not Photo contributed Brothers Jacob and Joseph Mansbach, seen here in 2018, are $11,771 away from raising a total of $125,000 for the Foodbank and providing 1 million meals to people experiencing food insecurity in Santa Barbara County.
Unregulated cannabis grows affect the quality of life of thousands of people who live next to them.
get food right away to families impacted by the pandemic,” Joseph said. “And in 2021, the need for food is still just as great, as many families continue to struggle with the pandemic. We can help with giving them the food they need to stay healthy.” The Mansbach brothers also founded and led the monthly Saturday Family Day volunteer program at the Foodbank warehouse (before COVID-19). In this program, kids from kindergarten to high school volunteered at the warehouse, where they crated fresh produce and dry goods, and learned about the role the Foodbank plays in the community. The brothers said they look forward to welcoming student volunteers back once conditions are appropriate for large gatherings. JOINJACOB has had support from numerous sponsors, including Hazard’s Cyclesport, Village Properties, Sodexo, MindBody, Mission Wealth, and Coach John Herzog.
Respect your neighbours is an action, ..It’sfor the smell of failure. not a marketing scheme.
For more about the Foodbank, visit FoodbankSBC.org.
Our County has failed to put even basic
Know the and join Unregulated the fight: regulations on facts large-scale cannabis. www.sbcountycoalition.com cannabis grows affect the quality of life of thousands of people who live next to them. It’s time for the county to fix this mess. It’s time to stop the skunk. It’s time for a change.
File your odor complaint today at: www.sbcountycoalition.com/file
22 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
Joe Weiland to lead board at Land Trust for Santa Barbara County
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Staff Report
oseph R. Weiland of Santa Barbara has been appointed president of the Board of Trustees of The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County. Weiland, a certified financial planner and 30-year veteran of the financial services industry, is managing partner of independent advisory firm Arlington Financial Advisors. He joined The Land Trust’s board in 2018. As president he will lead more than a dozen fellow trustees from the community whose expertise spans agriculture, law and finance, teaching, biology and planning. The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County is a nonprofit organization working to enhance and permanently preserve the county’s natural open spaces. Since its formation in 1985, The Land Trust has helped safeguard nearly 30,000 acres of natural and agricultural land countywide, including high priority-wildlife corridors, watersheds and woodlands.
“Conservation opportunities in our counknowledge to helping further the organizaty are extensive and complex. Joe brings tion’s mission. business acumen to “I’m incredibly excithis role at a moment ed and honored to take of growth for the Land on this new role,” WeiTrust,” said Land Trust land said. “The Land Executive Director Trust for Santa Barbara Meredith Hendricks. County is a vital mem“Our work is forever. ber of our conservation Each decision we make community working to must stand the test of preserve our county’s time. I am thrilled to natural landscapes and welcome Joe as board resources for the benefit chair.” of future generations.” Trustees, including Areas preserved by Weiland, are volunThe Land Trust include teers. Weiland said the Arroyo Hondo his passion for hiking, Preserve, Sedgwick surfing and Santa BarReserve, Carpintebara County’s natural ria Bluffs, Coronado beauty motivated him Butterfly Preserve, Photo Contributed to join The Land Trust Point Sal, Carpinteria Joe Weiland has been appointed president of the Board and lend his financial Salt Marsh and several of Trustees of The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County.
ranches on the Gaviota Coast. At times, The Land Trust buys and protects these scenic spaces. It also creates conservation agreements with willing private landowners to safeguard and restore sensitive natural habitats and conserve family farms and ranches. Several of these properties are open to the public. At the Arroyo Hondo Preserve in particular, The Land Trust offers opportunities for expert-led, guided field trips throughout the year. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Weiland also serves on the board of the Santa Barbara Club, a nonprofit social club; and is a member and past president of the Sunrise Rotary Club. For more information about The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, visit www. sblandtrust.org.
October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 23
Theaterfest supporters take a swing to kick off rebuilding project Planned renovations designed to improve safety and audience experience
Dignity Health Urgent Care & Primary Care accepting new patients in the Santa Ynez Valley.
By Serena Guentz
Noozhawk Staff Writer
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bout a dozen tables took over Second Street in Solvang on Monday morning as the Solvang Theaterfest held a breakfast and groundbreaking event to celebrate the start of its rebuilding project to repair and improve the theater. Nearly 100 volunteers, donors and other community members enjoyed a breakfast that was sponsored by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and the Wood-Claeyssens Foundation. While the 700-seat Solvang Festival Theater, which opened in 1974 and has been home to PCPA productions each summer season since, was originally built in just 58 days, the $4.7 million rebuilding project is expected to take about 10 months. “I’m not going to stand up here and tell you how important the Theaterfest is; you already know that,” Executive Director Steve Coe said. “How fantastic it’s going to be to have generations to come that will get to enjoy this jewel that we have in our community … How fantastic it’s going to be even better going forward.” Before breaking ground — or in this case, breaking down the wall — Solvang Theaterfest board chair Chris Nielsen and vice chair Ann Foxworthy Lewellen spoke about the history of the theater and of the process it took to get to this point of the project. In 2019, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians pledged to donate $100,000 toward the project if the theater could raise enough money to match that, which it did, and a check from the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians was presented to Foxworthy Lewellen during Monday’s event. The Solvang Theaterfest board of directors also announced that only $995,000 was needed to completely fund the project. More than $500,000 has been raised since the rebuilding campaign and goal of $1.5 million was revealed in June. “I can’t help but think back to the 1970s, how excited [the original founders of the Solvang Festival Theater] must have been to start this project,” Foxworthy Lewellen said. “They must have just been ecstatic about seeing their dream coming true, and that’s really the way I feel this
Photos by Serena Guentz PCPA Artistic Director Mark Booher uses a sledgehammer to hit the outer wall of the Solvang Festival Theater as part of Monday's groundbreaking ceremony for a rebuilding project, during which the outer wall will be rebuilt.
Meet our team: Jason Morris, MD Kathryn Brewer, MD Bahija Saouf, MD Ben Olmedo, PA-C What we offer: During the Solvang Theaterfest groundbreaking event Monday, the remaining needed amount of less than $1 million to fully fund the project is unveiled.
morning.” Since the outer wall of the theater will be torn down and rebuilt, Foxworthy Lewellen and Nielsen made the first holes by taking a sledgehammer to the wall, followed by board members and other attendees who wanted to take a swing. The theater rebuilding project is designed to improve safety and overall audience experience with “higher and acoustically designed outer walls,” the theater’s website stated. Accessibility and ADA compliance also will be improved with new stairs and access ramps, as well as increased accessible audience seating. Additionally, the current wood utility lighting poles will be replaced with new metal columns, and there will be improved placement of a new control booth and sound and equipment rooms. “We’re really excited,” said Gabi Robbins, a former volunteer at the theater, along with her
husband, Peter Robbins, who also is a former Theaterfest board member. “We’ve been patrons since ’75, when they had all the fun fundraisers when they would auction off costumes.” Gabi Robbins said that those fundraisers involved auctioning off costumes from the theater to rent for costume balls that would take place shortly after. A banner is displayed in front of the theater with the names of donors and an explanation of the project. “I can tell how important the Theaterfest is to all of you, just by the grins and smiles I saw as we were busting into that wall,” Nielsen said at the end of the event. “We look forward to, 10 months from now, doing something special then also.” Noozhawk staff writer Serena Guentz can be reached at sguentz@noozhawk.com.
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24 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
Colorthon 2021 fundraiser set for Oct. 30 at Mission Club Staff Report
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egistration is now open for the 2021 Lompoc Hospital District Foundation Colorthon 5K at the Mission Club in Vandenberg Village on Oct. 30. After a short hiatus — and in a new location — the popular and exuberant fundraising event will begin with registration at 8 a.m. in the club parking lot. Instead of playing a round of golf at the picturesque locale, participants will run or walk a pre-arranged 5K course through a series of “color stations” where volunteers will toss colored powder (actually, cornstarch) at runners. This untimed event is open to everyone — runners, walkers, joggers and anyone who just wants to come out and have a fun morning while supporting the Lompoc Hospital District Foundation. Registration is open for sign-up as individuals, a family or in a group.
The pre-registration form may be found at lhdfoundation.org/colorthon. Sign-up by Oct. 20 for a discount or register at 8 a.m. the day of the event at the Mission Club.
Pre-registration cost is $30 for each adult; $25 each for a team of four and $15 each for participants age 12 and younger. Registration the day of the event is $35 for each
adult; $30 each for a team of four and $15 each for participates age 12 and younger. Numerous sponsorship levels are also available. Call Outreach Coordinator Karen Ortiz at 805-875-8868 for more information. The 2021 Colorthon will help raise funds to purchase an advanced MRI machine for Lompoc Valley Medical Center. The new MRI will enable faster scan times, higher image quality, more automation and better resolution to allow new types of imaging. As of Sept. 1, masks are recommended, but not required, for this event. Health and safety protocols are subject to change based on federal, state and local government policies. See lhdfoundation.org for more information and updates.
A very special event
Take a ride back in time to help the Solvang Senior Center gallop towards our new home
Sunday November 14
• Exclusive Alisal Breakfast Ride to the Historic Alisal Adobe. • Cowboy Poetry, Singing, Live Auction and Bid for a Cause. • Fantastic Breakfast and Chance to Tour the Adobe. • Limited space available for both horse back riders and hay wagon.
1745 Mission Drive Solvang, CA 93463 • Ph.(805) 688-3793 • www.solvangseniorcenter.org
October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 25
This Drommekage dessert recipe is a Danish Dream By Vida Gustafson Contributing Writer
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un to say and even more fun to eat, this Danish recipe is truly a keeper. It comes together in less than an hour for any time you’d like to throw together a delicious cake for a last-minute potluck or tea. It’s a light-as-air vanilla scented sponge cake topped with a buttery caramelized coconut topping. It’s not too sweet and doesn’t need anything added, although I did guild the lily by putting a dollop of whipped cream on top!
Ingredients Cake
n 4 eggs n 1 & 1/3 C granulated sugar n 1 tsp vanilla extract n ¾ C milk n ¼ C butter n 2 C flour n 3 tsp baking powder n ¼ tsp salt
Topping
n 10 tbsp butter
Photo by Vida Gustafson Fun to say and even more fun to eat, this Danish Dream Cake (Drømmekage) recipe is truly a keeper.
n 1 C brown sugar (packed) n ¼ C milk n 1 ¼ C shredded coconut
Method Preheat your oven to 400 ° F. Prepare a
rectangular baking tin (approximately 13 by 9 inches) by buttering and lining with parchment paper. Melt the ¼ C butter and add the milk to it, set aside. Using a stand or handheld mixer, beat the eggs and sugar together until light in color and almost doubled in volume. Add the butter and milk, combine baking powder with the flour and add to the batter, incorporating thoroughly. Bake for 20 minutes. While the cake is baking, combine all ingredients for the topping in a small saucepan and melt together, cook for 1-2 minutes over low heat. Once the cake is baked remove it from the oven and turn the temperature up to 425 ° F. Carefully spread the coconut caramel topping over the cake and return to the oven to bake for a further 10 minutes. Cut slices while still warm to prevent the caramel from sticking or cracking too much. Leave to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before serving.
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We will save you the time and effort it takes to go out and pick up a copy of the Star. Now you can sit back and let us come to you. Delivery service of our free publication is $48 per year.Your subscription will begin with the first issue after payment received and continue for one year there after. To subscribe, email amberly@santaynezvalleystar.com, go online to www.santaynezvalleystar.com, or fill out the form below and mail to PO Box 1594, Solvang, CA 93463
26 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
Local volunteer brings insight to Book Club for Kids!
File photo
way to foster connection and create space for community during a challenging time,” Jansen said. “Also, I love to geek out over books. Being able to talk with others about the things we love — in this case, books — is an amazing thing. I would have loved the opportunity to be part of a group like this as a kid, and I hope to help young readers share or grow their love of reading with their peers.” Readers who want to join shouldn’t worry about whether they managed to read the book before the meeting. Signups and more information can be found on the library website, GoletaValleyLibrary.org, or by calling the Solvang Library at 805 688-4214. Copies of the featured book can be checked out at Solvang Library.
“Connection is so important, and we are in such a disconnected moment right now. Getting young readers together to talk about books is a
For more information on programs and services at the Goleta and Santa Ynez Valley Libraries, visit www.GoletaValleyLibrary.org.
Solvang Library launches new online program to explore new books Staff Report
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r. Anne Jansen is helping Solvang Library bring a new program to young readers, the Solvang Library’s Book Club for Kids! The group started Sept. 15, for readers ages 9-12, and will meet up online two Wednesday afternoons each month to have fun exploring new books, new ideas and different perspectives. Book Club moderator Anne Jansen grew up in the Santa Ynez Valley and has loved its libraries since she was a child. She earned her Ph.D. in English about a decade ago and has been teaching multiethnic literature at the university level ever since. Now that she’s back on the Central Coast, she’s excited to celebrate
The Solvang Library's Book Club for Kids started Sept. 15
the magic of books with young readers. Jansen will be joined by Carey McKinnon, Solvang Library’s longtime branch supervisor.
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October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 27
Luke Gildred, Pirates’ defense lift Santa Ynez to victory over Lompoc Win marks first time Pirates beat Braves since 2009
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Staff Report
unior quarterback Luke Gildred had a career night, rallying the Santa Ynez High football team to a 34-30 non-league win over Lompoc on Friday, Sept. 17, at Pirate Field. It was the Pirates’ first win over the Braves since 2009 and the first for Santa Ynez coach Josh McClurg in the rivalry. Gildred completed 20 of 34 passes for 328 yards and five touchdowns. Aidan Scott and Tyler Gregg each caught two touchdown passes and Daulton Beard hauled in the other. Lompoc quarterback Cavin Ross threw a 63-yard touchdown pass to Deville “Joker” Dickerson and Sheldon Canley Jr. broke off a 48-yard run to help the Braves take a 17-13 lead in the first half. Canley ran for another score in the second half to help the Braves take a 30-20
Photo by Len Wood for Noozhawk Daulton Beard (11) of Santa Ynez celebrates with teammate Tyler Gregg after catching a touchdown pass from quarterback Luke Gildred on Sept. 17 in the Pirates' 34-30 win over Lompoc.
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lead. Gildred guided the Pirates to two touchdowns with 4:30 to go in the game. Between the two scores, the Santa Ynez defense stopped Lompoc on downs with two minutes to go. The Pirates scored on the last of Scott’s two TD receptions to take a 34-30 lead. On Lompoc’s next possession, Nolan Oslin intercepted a pass to end the game. It was the second straight defeat for Lompoc, which falls to 3-2. The Braves had a bye the next week before opening Channel League play at home with a Thursday gamee against Santa Barbara on Sept. 30 Santa Ynez won its fourth straight game. The Pirates (4-1) returned to action Oct. 1 against Cabrillo in their Pacific View League opener and will travel to Ventura and play Buena High on Friday, Oct. 8.
Make Summerset Farm your destination for the very best in pesticide and herbicide free produce. Fall Holiday Decor - Gourds, Dried Corn, Winter Squash & Pumpkins! Kid & Pet Friendly • Homemade Jams and Honey for sale Open at 9:00am - Closed Mondays
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28 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
Scholarship Foundation receives 9th straight four-star rating
NatureTrack FILM FESTIVAL B E C A U S E N AT U R E W I L L
BLOW YOUR
MIND
Staff Report
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©Espen Rekdal
he Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara has received its ninth consecutive four-star rating from nonprofit evaluator Charity Navigator. The rating – Charity Navigator’s highest – indicates superior financial efficiency and transparency in Scholarship Foundation operations. The Foundation has received 18 four-star ratings in 19 years. “Attaining a four-star rating verifies that the Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara exceeds industry standards and outperforms most charities in your area of work,” wrote Charity Navigator President and CEO Michael Thatcher. “Only 4 percent of the charities we evaluate have received at least nine consecutive four-star evaluations, indicating that the Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara outperforms most other charities in America. This exceptional designation from Charity Navigator sets the Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara apart from its peers and demonstrates to the public its trustworthiness.” The nation’s largest independent charity evaluator, Charity Navigator assesses organizations each year on the basis of financial health, governance, ethical practices, and
openness. The Scholarship Foundation recently received its third consecutive Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar, a leading aggregator of nonprofit information. The Platinum Seal is GuideStar’s highest level of recognition, signifying exceptional openness in reporting institutional finances and performance. “The pandemic has placed new demands on our operations model, but it has done nothing to diminish our commitment to fiscal responsibility and accountability,” said Foundation President and CEO Barbara Robertson. “We are proud of our ongoing efforts in these important areas, and thank Charity Navigator for this recognition.” The Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara is the nation’s largest community-based provider of college scholarships, having cumulatively awarded more than $137 million to over 55,000 county students since its founding in 1962. A nonprofit organization, the Scholarship Foundation also provides free financial aid advising services. For additional information visit www.sbscholarship.org. For additional information, visit www. sbscholarship.org.
o EXOSKELETON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 FOR MORE INFO | www.NatureTrackFilmFestival.org
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they make using ReWalk’s innovative technology and studying techniques to further improve spinal cord injury recovery.” Ambler was grateful for everyone’s efforts. “I would like to thank everyone who donated to SCI Research Advancement so we could bring an exoskeleton to Rob Rosenberry Physical Therapy,” said Ambler. “SHG Insurance and Montecito Bank & Trust, two local corporations, provided grants to help acquire the exoskeleton and a GoFundMe page was es-
tablished so individuals like Karen Keller-Ross, Julie Drews, Jeff Singleton, David Belmont, Jim Fiolek, as well as family and friends could make smaller but valuable donations. I would like to thank everyone for giving us a chance to start our new project. This is only the beginning but so far, we are doing well.” For more information, or to donate to help fund the accessory kit, visit info@rrpt.net, sci.cure.org or email ambler@silcom.com.
October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 29
Santa Barbara County Education Office salutes local teachers Santa Ynez High educator TJ Berry to be recognized Staff Report
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hree Distinguished New Educators and three Distinguished Mentors will be honored Nov. 6 at the eighth annual A Salute to Teachers gala at the Music Academy of the West. Sponsored by the Santa Barbara County Education Office (SBCEO) and in partnership with Cox Communications and other organizations across Santa Barbara County, the event recognizes teaching excellence and features new and mentor teachers who contribute to their students and schools in extraordinary ways. “A Salute to Teachers honors the invaluable contributions these local educators make in their classrooms and schools every day,” said County Superintendent of Schools Susan Salcido. “New educators bring a tremendous amount of energy and inspiration to our teaching profession; mentor teachers help to share wisdom and provide the support that comes from lived experiences from the field. “To celebrate these educators through A Salute to Teachers is one way Santa Barbara County can say ‘Thank you for all you do for students, families and our communities.”
The Distinguished Mentors honorees are:
Lorena Armstrong, Mary Buren Elementary/Guadalupe Union School District Armstrong’s leadership qualities have made her an outstanding mentor to many teachers at Mary Buren Elementary, where she has taught for seven years. She models lifelong learning and inspires others to do the same, Photos Contributed encouraging solution-ori- Lorena Armstrong ented thinking to solve any teaching challenge. Armstrong takes the time to get to know her students and transforms her instruction to support their needs. She also connects with their families and creates bridges to support them. Armstrong’s nominator said, “Regardless of the situation or challenge, she keeps a smile and
a sound mind. She listens to the needs of students and provides them support.” Riccardo Magni, Pioneer Valley High School/ Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Magni serves in numerous roles at Pioneer Valley High School, where he has taught science since the school’s opening 18 years ago. He is also a department chair, coach, mentor and parent. Riccardo Magni Others describe him as a dedicated and proud teacher who perseveres through difficult circumstances. He goes the extra mile to support students, whether coaching track or taking students to a science fair competition. One teacher Magni mentors said of him: “Mr. Magni has always made time for me. Even though he is one of the busiest people I know, he still always has time to answer my questions.” Magni encourages his teaching candidates by offering suggestions for improvement while honoring each candidate’s unique teaching style. His mentorship supports new educators as they develop into school leaders. Melissa Woods - Dos Pueblos High School/ Santa Barbara Unified School District Through her 22 years in teaching, Woods has been a positive role model and a source of inspiration for students and colleagues alike. Her passion for science education has been celebrated with Melissa Woods awards and recognitions, as well as grants from UCSB. Woods builds lasting relationships with students and colleagues at Dos Pueblos High School. One of her former students was inspired to pursue a career as a physics teacher and became Woods’ student teacher. She said, “Ms. Woods thinks carefully about her instruction and how to best serve her students, colleagues and community.” Woods creates a community within the Dos Pueblos Engineering Academy and is a source of support and strength for students and colleagues during difficult times. She creates lasting bonds by modeling respect, compassion, and dedication.
The Distinguished New Educators honorees are:
Samantha Ayala - La Honda STEAM Academy/Lompoc Unified School District New educators bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to teaching. Ayala embodies this creativity as a fifthgrade teacher in her third year of teaching. Ayala’s mentor shared, “When we discuss issues in her class or curriculum, Samantha Ayala Samantha is eager to try new things and move outside her comfort zone.” Her mentor also complimented Ayala’s focus on preparing students for the challenges they will face in the next grade level with her focused and rigorous instruction. Ayala dedicates time to the Student Council, where she helps students from different grade levels develop leadership skills. She also works in the after-school program, developing new ways to deliver instruction to support student growth and achievement. Above all, she has a persevering attitude, and she focuses on solutions while maintaining an upbeat outlook. TJ Berry - Santa Ynez Valley Union High School/Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District Berry demonstrates intention in teaching, building relationships, and continual improvement at Santa Ynez Union High School, where he teaches history. Berry’s thoughtful approach shows just how much he cares about TJ Berry students and learning. He is known for his ability to connect with students, and his warmth helps him build positive relationships across the campus. Berry’s teaching style develops students’ ownership of learning. His project-based learning activities encourage students to choose multiple modes of accessing the curriculum. Berry’s mentor said: “A common theme I have witnessed ... is the question ‘Why?’ He asks himself this question when making decisions about all things related to students.”
Berry strives to find common ground through dialogue when working through a disciplinary issue, and he always remembers the humanity of each of his students. His devotion to students in and out of the classroom models excellence in the teaching profession. Christina Peña Eckert - Carpinteria Middle School/Carpinteria Unified School District “Withitness” is a word used to describe an educator who is intuitive, caring, and responsive to student needs. Peña exemplifies withitness in her classroom and the school community. Peña’s principal said: Christina Pena Eckert “Students feel seen by her, and they trust her to teach them to be effective communicators through her classes.” She is an active school community member and shares AVID strategies at staff meetings to support teaching and learning. She is always smiling, and her positive attitude is infectious. She inspires others to consider problem-solving strategies when confronted with challenges. Peña has a bright career ahead and will be a source of motivation and encouragement for years to come. In addition to the distinguished new teachers and mentors, A Salute to Teachers will also recognize the 2022 Santa Barbara County Teacher of the Year Alisyn Blanton, 2021 Santa Barbara County Teacher of the Year Frank Koroshec, the 2022 Santa Barbara Bowl Performing Arts Teacher of the Year Josie Coburn, and the 2021 Santa Barbara Bowl Performing Arts Teacher of the Year Elizabeth Caruso. SBCEO is grateful to partner with Cox Communications, Fielding Graduate University, Montecito Bank & Trust, Noozhawk, Santa Barbara City College Foundation, the Santa Barbara Bowl, and others, who make this event possible. For more about the awards or the event, visit www.sbceo.org/salute or contact Steve Keithley, director of teacher programs at 805-964-4710, ext. 5281. For more about the Teacher Induction Program, visit www.sbceo.org/tip or contact John Merritt, director, Teacher Induction Program at 805-964-4710, ext. 5428.
30 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
Hancock College offers short-term fall classes Staff Report
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llan Hancock College is encouraging students to earn additional college credits by enrolling in short-term fall classes starting Oct. 11. Registration is underway for more than 70 short-term fall classes in English, sociology, art, business, history, viticulture and more. Many of the classes are offered online and can be completed in just eight weeks. The short-term class offerings also include classes that meet only once and others that meet on the weekends. Several of Hancock’s short-term fall classes also meet the general education requirements for students attending UCSB and Cal Poly. UCSB students can view a list of open classes at https://bit.ly/shorttermUCSB. Cal Poly students can view a list of eligible classes at https://bit.ly/shorttermCalPoly.
Students taking short-term classes can
earn between 0.5 and 3 units depending on the class. Registration is now open and continues until the day before a class starts. Hancock’s Community Education is also offering short-term noncredit classes starting Oct. 11. Offerings include Conversation for Beginning ESL, Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint, and classes in a new Childcare License and Preparation program. To view a full roster of available Community Education classes, visit www. hancockcollege.edu/communityed. A full listing of the short-term credit classes is available at www.hancockcollege.edu/shortterm. Registration is ongoing and short-term classes begin Oct. 11.
o BURGLARY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 The man found a crowbar or piece of metal in a backyard shed, Eliason said, and smashed a side window, gaining access to the inside of the home. Eliason called the Santa Barbara Police Department’s communications center to report the break-in, and officers were dispatched to the scene. He provided a description of the suspect, and kept the dispatcher apprised of where the man was in the residence. The intruder spent a lot of time rummaging around in the house, Eliason said. “He was going through drawers, opening cabinets and taking down pictures,” Eliason said. “He went into the garage and got into my car.” Police officers quickly surrounded the home and ordered the man to come out, but he was not compliant, and the incident continued for nearly two hours, according to police. Eliason was able to remotely open the window blinds, which aided officers in tracking the suspect’s whereabouts in the residence.
Eventually, a police K-9 dog was sent in to locate and detain the suspect, who in the meantime had gone into a bedroom closet and donned one of Eliason’s County Fire Department uniforms. After a brief struggle with police, the man was taken into custody shortly after 9 p.m., according to police Sgt. Ethan Ragsdale. The suspect, identified as Trey Von Duus, 21, of Buellton, was booked into Santa Barbara County Jail on suspicion of felony burglary, resisting arrest, and vehicle theft, Ragsdale said. He remained in custody Monday, with bail set at $50,000. The vehicle Duus arrived in was found to be stolen out of Santa Ynez, Ragsdale added. The whole experience was a unique one for Eliason. “I’m used to providing information about fires and crashes, but this was something I’d rather not do,” he said. Noozhawk executive editor Tom Bolton can be reached at tbolton@noozhawk.com.
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October 5 - October 18, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 31
o SADDLE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Photo by Barry Sigman Brad "Cash" Cooper started working with leather at the age of 12 when his father gave him a leather bag making kit, and is now a sought-after saddle maker.
leather bag making kit. “I loved it so much and kept making things until I had to get a job to buy a pickup, so I decided to make it my job,” he said. There was a saddle shop down the street from him in Dublin, Texas, owned by Wendy and Calvin Allen. Wendy is known as the “Queen of Saddles” and Cooper worked in her shop for four years apprenticing and learning the trade. “I covered stirrups every day for a year,” he said. “Few people got to actually go into the saddle shop, and when I finally got to go through those doors I knew it was a big deal to work with Wendy.” Cooper added that his learning happened before the likes of YouTube, and he learned his craft the old-fashioned way: By reading books and studying under legends in the industry. Cooper then moved to Austin, Texas, and worked for the Steiner family at Capitol Saddlery. The business has one of the most iconic buildings in the area, with the cowboy boot in lights on the side of the structure, and has a long history of first being a firehouse, then a world famous saddle and boot making shop owned by rodeo star T.C. “Buck” Steiner.
“I was fortunate work for the Steiner family and learn from their leather craftsman as well,” Cooper said. He ended up going to a management training school, which offered an opportunity to manage Tandy Leather in Ventura. “When I went to rent a moving truck, the guy looked at me funny and said ‘Are you sure you want to move to California?’,” Cooper said. “I think it cost me $30 to rent the truck because a lot of people move the other direction.” So, in February of 2011 he moved to Ventura and two years later moved to Buellton to open his own shop, Cooper Saddlery. Cooper said it takes him about a month to make a saddle from start to finish. The longest he’s worked on a saddle is 90 days straight. “Some people give me free rein and others want to be involved in every step of the way, which is great too because I want to make sure people love what they get,” Cooper said. “Saddle making and all leather work is more than just cranking out the same thing over and over, it’s an art to me.” Cooper added working with Keaton was fun because he got to send him samples of designs and almost ran out of scrap leather before Keaton chose a design that Cooper thought he wouldn’t like at all. As COVID-19 hit, he said it allowed him time to catch up on all the orders backlogged, but after fixing almost every saddle in the Valley just about, Cooper slowed down and decided he wanted to ride more and play with his music group, the Cash Cooper Band. “I love the Santa Ynez Valley. It has allowed me to grow my craftsmanship and be a singing cowboy which I’ve always wanted,” Cooper said. “I even joined the wrangler team at The Alisal earlier this year, so on the weekends I get to show people around the ranch and ride too.” Cooper has also expanded his business to teach people how to work with leather and does classes regularly. Follow his Instagram page to learn when more classes will be offered this fall and winter. “My girlfriend Sarah and I also have a falconry business and we do horse training on our little place ‘Thunder Cloud Ranch,’” Cooper said. “I love being busy.” To see more of Cooper’s work visit either his Facebook or Instagram page.
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32 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H October 5 - October 18, 2021
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