Santa Ynez Valley Star December A 2017 by Santa Ynez Valley Star

December 5 - 18, 2017

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’TIS THE SEASON

Photos by Raiza Giorgi Left, Dan, Wade and Bill Agin, from left, enjoy greeting the many generations of residents who come to their tree lot each year to pick out Christmas trees. Above, Genevieve Howie of Santa Ynez is ready for Christmas, even though the day after Thanksgiving when she was treeshopping was in the upper 80s in Santa Ynez.

Agin’s tree lots are a Christmas tradition “We sold 500 trees that first year and I can’t even count how many we sell now,” Bill Agin said with a smile. The Agins have had a Christmas tree lot in the Santa Ynez Valley since 1979 and are seeing third generations of families come through. “It’s awesome because we get to have “This is our fourth year getting our tree from Christmas for five weeks, and even after the Agins, and we just love how hospitable people get their trees from us they come back they are,” she said as one of the Agins loaded several times to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate their tree onto their car. The Agin family have been in the Christmas and share stories,” Agin said. Elena Mirelez and her mother Leona bring tree business since 1969, when Dick and Bill the Agins a box of homemade chocolate chip were still in high school. They were in need cookies each year, and they said it’s a Christof a job; a friend asked, why not try selling mas tradition to come see the Agins. Christmas trees?

Generations of loyal customers support the 48-year family operation By Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

ven with a heat wave on the day after Thanksgiving, people were finding their way to the Agin Christmas tree lot. In shorts and flip flops, Lexi Berry and her family were excited to pick out their tree and start decorating for the holidays.

“We are right on Grand Avenue in Los Olivos, so we like to display our tree in the yard so everyone passing through can see it all lit up,” Mirelez said. On Black Friday, Agin’s son Wade was busy teaching first-timers about the importance of placement of their tree to avoid fire hazards. “Make sure your tree isn’t sitting near the heater vents, as that dries is out so quickly. Also the first day keep checking your tree for water because it can drink up to two buckets after being cut. Once the bucket is dry, the sap cuts off flow and the tree won’t be able to

o AGIN’S CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

2 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

star news

The Star is ending the year on a high note

our December 2016 front page. This year’s Mandarin version was another highlight as we not only published it online but also in print and distributed it around the Central Coast. It has been particularly popular in Solvang, where tourists from China are visiting frequently. The state tourism agency, Visit California, has also picked it up and is promoting it in their offices in China. The Star staff is very proud of all the issues we published this year and we hope that you enjoyed them. We also hope that you enjoy a wonderful holiday season with your loved ones. Remember to tag us in your photos on social media (#SYVStar), and your photo might be published in one of our editions. You can always contact me if you have an idea for a story, including a suggestion of some interesting person you think we should profile. Send an email to me at news@santaynezvalleystar.com or to reporter Victoria Martinez at reporter@ santaynezvalleystar.com. To all of our advertisers, I want to say a special thank you for making this publication possible. Cheers to another great year! Raiza Giorgi Publisher

And for that, we thank all our readers, advertisers

nother year is coming to a close, and I want to take a moment to thank all of you for reading the Santa Ynez Valley Star and contributing to this publication. In the two short years since we debuted monthly, we have become twice-monthly and are now adding a subscription option. You have asked and now you shall receive — in your mailbox, that is — although you can continue to find the Star on news racks for free. As soon as we get enough subscribers — in January, we hope — we can start mailing out the Star for $2 per issue. This will cover our mailing and other distribution costs. If you would like to have the Star delivered directly to your home or business anywhere in the country, please email your address and other contact informa-tion to amberly@santaynezvalleystar. com or call her at 619-241-5374. Then, when we are ready to launch our subscription service, we will send you a link to get started.

File photos Left, The Santa Ynez Valley Star won “Best of the Best in Advertising” for our first Mandarin-language version aimed at Chinese tourists in the area. At the statewide Better Newspaper Contest in May, the Santa Ynez Valley Star won first place in news design for our front page in December 2016.

Looking back over 2017, I realize we have had the pleasure of telling many amazing stories, and we are excited to see what lies ahead in 2018. A major highlight for the Star staff in 2017 was attending and winning several awards at the California News Publishers Association’s Better Newspaper Contest

in May. In recognition of the work we did in 2016, in just our first year, we took home the top honor in advertising for our online-only, Mandarin-language version of the Star, which was read 45,000 times online. We also won several other awards, including first place in editorial design for

Subscriptions Now Available Why go looking for a copy of the Santa Valley Star When you can haVe one deliVered directly to you?

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. Su beforbesDcribe Your subscription will begin with the first issue after payment is received and continue for one year there after. & pay oec. 15 nly To subscribe, email amberly@santaynezvalleystar.com, $ 4 2 a $6 sav ings go online to www.santaynezvalleystar.com, or fill out Local singer the form below and mail to PO Box 1594, Solvang, CA 93463: showcases talentspells beyondsuccess Shotgun years BehindTheLens for her NAME: _____________________________________________________________ local woman March 7 - 20, 2017 • Vol. 2, No. 3

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

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

Local photojournalist has a A prolific, award-winning career

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

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El Rancho Market The Heart of the Santa Ynez Valley elranchomarket.com

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

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

ry Tim

by Raiza Giorgi

TELEPHONE:_______________________EMAIL:____________________________

ary Eve

FIRST-GRA

SYV coalition says Camp 4 impacts larger than they seem

by Raiza Giorgi

ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________

e Com pliment

SCHOOL

o THANKFUL

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

CONTINUE

December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 3

NEWS ROUNDUP

Photo contributed Santa Barbara County sheriff’s deputies have used naloxone, a drug to reverse opioid overdoses, four times this year.

Anti-opioid overdose drug saving lives, county says Deputies, other agencies undergo naloxone training, carry kits to administer Staff Report

aloxone, the nasal-spray drug that can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses, is saving lives in Santa Barbara County after becoming more readily available to those who need it, according to county officials. Cmdr. Craig Bonner of the Sheriff’s Department said deputies have 115 naloxone kits to prevent opioid overdose-related deaths, and they have used the drugs four times since they started carrying it this year. In September, a deputy used the drug, also known as Narcan, to save the life of a Goleta man who was reported unconscious, sheriff’s spokeswoman Kelly Hoover said. She said deputies arrived at a residence in the 6100 block of Verdura Avenue before fire and medical personnel and discovered the man had symptoms of an overdose. A deputy administered one dose of the intranasal naloxone, and within a few seconds the man was conscious and breathing normally. Bonner said time can be crucial in saving a life. “Having the ability to get life-saving medicine inside somebody a couple of minutes before (medical services arrive) can make the difference between life and death,” he said.

“We are trying to help people and recognize the importance of this.” Opioids were involved in more than 33,000 deaths nationwide in 2015, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Santa Barbara County had 63 opioid-related accidental deaths in 2015 and 43 deaths in 2016, according to John Doyel, alcohol and drug program director with the county Department of Behavioral Wellness. Doyel credits some of the decrease to the county’s Overdose Prevention and Reversal Program, educational efforts, and the distribution of naloxone in the community. According to the California State Board of Pharmacy, the naloxone prescription drug blocks the receptors in the brain from the effects of opioids and restores breathing. It also may be administered by intramuscular injection. Sheriff’s deputies received an hour-long training course on how to use the nasal spray in April in conjunction with the county Emergency Medical Services Agency. The spray kits cost $75 each, and this year the Sheriff’s Department received funding for the kits from Proposition 172, a 1993 voter-approved half-cent state sales tax for public safety services. The county Public Health Department has obtained a grant from the California Department of Public Health to provide naloxone in the upcoming years, Bonner said. The U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime and the World Health Organization issued a report suggesting that naloxone be available to

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NEWS STAFF Raiza Giorgi

PRODUCTION STAFF Aimée Reinhart Avery

Publisher & Editor

Art, Design & Pagination

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Dave Bemis

ADVERTISING STAFF Shana DeLeon

Copy Editor

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

REPORTERS Victoria Martinez Reporter

reporter@santaynezvalleystar.com

Robin Laroche Reporter

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Director of Advertising

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The Solvang City Council approved the planting of a new oak tree near the rear of the traffic island on Nov. 13. The new tree will cost approximately $700. In addition, some type of artwork will be placed toward the front of the median, which could be removed if deemed necessary in the future once the tree matures. The giant coast live oak that stood in the middle of the road was removed in late September after rot and disease made it danPhoto by Victoria Martinez gerous, according to city staff. The tree was Local VFW Post 7139 and members of the community standing before the founding of Solvang in honored the country’s veterans during the annual 1911, and there has been much uproar in the Veteran’s Day celebration on Nov. 10. community about its removal. Before the oak was removed an arborist inspected the trees inside city limits and determined that 18 of them were hazardous, so they also have been scheduled for removal. Members of local VFW Post 7139 once The type of artwork that will be placed in again honored all American veterans during the median has not been decided. their Veterans Day celebration on Nov. 10 at the Veterans Memorial Building in Solvang. This year, the VFW chose to especially honor those who served in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. The event began with an outdoor flag The Solvang City Council eliminated raising by the members of Solvang American its protocol for filling vacant council Legion Post 160 followed by “Call to the Colseats during its Nov. 13 meeting, bringors” and “Taps” by bugler Michael Roberts. ing closure to months of disagreement Patriotic music provided by the Santa about the way the council should fill Ynez Valley Master Chorale, the American unexpected vacancies. Heritage Girls and both the Santa Ynez The protocol was removed by a 4-1 High School band and jazz band filled the vote, with Neill Zimmerman opposed. hall throughout the event. Zimmerman restated his belief that Local boy scouts also presented flags council seats should be filled only by representing the six branches of service special election. with Rudy Henderson, an Air Force veteran After numerous disagreements and of the Korean War, presenting the POW/ deadlocked votes among the four MIA flag. remaining council members related to The keynote speech was given by Col filling the vacant seat left by Hans Duus’ Robert York Jr., commander of the 30th resignation in August, the council opted Space Wing Medical Group at Vandenberg to default to state laws rather than keep Air Force Base. A number of other veterans a protocol in place that was not truly shared messages of gratitude and reverence enforceable. for those who have served and are serving State law requires vacancies to be the nation. filled by appointment or special election, The event concluded with a free barbecue. but does not determine how the process By Victoria Martinez should occur. Prior to its removal, the

Santa Ynez Valley honors veterans

Solvang eliminates appointment protocol

New oak to be planted in First Street median The empty median on Solvang’s First Street where a 150-year-old tree was recently removed will not stay vacant for long.

council’s protocol stated that a vacant seat should be filled by a runner-up from the most recent election or an application process. Going forward, the process to fill vacancies will be determined at the time of each vacancy. By Victoria Martinez

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

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SYHS Principal Mark Swanitz pleads not guilty to DUI charges By Janene Scully

Noozhawk North County Editor

n attorney has entered not-guilty pleas on behalf of Santa Ynez Valley Union High School Principal Mark Swanitz, who was arrested in October on suspicion of drunken driving. Attorney Billy Redell entered the pleas Nov. 20 for Swanitz, 50, in Santa Barbara County Superior Court. Swanitz was arrested Oct. 21 after a non-injury collision caused by another driver making a left turn on Highway 246 between Solvang and Buellton, according to the California Highway Patrol. He has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and driving under the under influence of alcohol with a blood-alcohol contest above the legal limit of 0.08. The criminal complaint listed his blood alcohol level at the time of the crash as 0.12. Swanitz did not attend the hearing. Defendants in misdemeanor cases are not required to show up and can be represented by their attorneys instead. During the arraignment hearing, Judge Kay Kuns scheduled the case to return to court Dec. 12 for a readiness-and-settlement conference. John MacKinnon represented the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s office at

the hearing. Outside the courtroom, Redell said he plans to review evidence against Swanitz. “I can tell you that there’s more to this than what the public currently knows,” Redell said. “And sometimes it’s not quite as it’s portrayed initially. There’s more to it.” The defense attorney declined to expound on that statement. “I know he’s getting beat up on social media, and I think that’s unfortunate that people draw their own conclusions without knowing the facts,” Redell said. Redell is the father of two graduates of the high school and has a third child now enrolled there. “I think he’s great man who does a fine job over at the high school,” Redell said. Swanitz remains on the job. At a recent school board meeting where nine people spoke in support of the principal, district leaders said they must ensure that his due-process rights are not violated while also making the best decision for the school. Swanitz has been principal since 2010 at the school he graduated from with the class of 1985. He previously spent four years as principal at Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta. Noozhawk North County editor Janene Scully can be reached at jscully@noozhawk.com.

Give yourself a raise in retirement.

ASSEMBLY BILL 1328

2 new laws intended to make gas, oil drilling safer 1328 and 1197 protect the health of our communities and environment by giving our regulatory bodies the information and tools they need,” said Limón, D-Santa Barbara. For decades, legislators in California have been working to obtain information on the chemicals present Staff Report in wastewater from oil and gas production. Oil ov. Jerry Brown has signed two and gas compabills authored by Assemblynies have been woman Monique Limón that Gov. Jerry Brown required to report are intended to increase the safety of oil the chemicals used for hydraulic fracand gas production. Assembly Bill 1328 gives California turing, or “fracking,” but have not had to report chemicals used for other, far water agencies access to information more numerous, oil and gas operations. on potentially hazardous chemicals “By addressing a gap in our ability used in oil and gas operations. AB 1197 to obtain information about chemicals requires the operators’ spill management teams to be adequately trained and in oil and gas wastewater, this bill will enable the water boards to better protect prepared to respond to an oil spill. water quality and public health,” said “After years of numerous legislative attempts with no success, I am grateful California Secretary for Environmental Protection Matthew Rodriquez. that California will now have AB 1328 Both bills were signed in October and AB 1197 that increase environmenand will take effect on Jan. 1. tal and water quality protections. AB

California water agencies would have access to information on potentially hazardous chemicals

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December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 5

Valley group sues to oppose Camp 4 deal be overridden by Congress. There have been 47 such bills since 1989 regarding fee to trust and all passed congress and were signed by presidents in four administrations,” Hartmann said. Rep. Doug LaMalfa, a Republican from Richvale who represents Northern California’s 1st District, sponsored the bill and is chairman of the Indian Affairs and Alaskan Natives Subcommittee. LaMalfa became a key player by submitting three bills over the last several years to allow Camp 4 to be taken into trust. Two of those were rejected and the third, HR 1491, was submitted on March 10. The agreement between the tribe and the Staff Report county allows for 143 one-acre residential lots developed on 194 acres, with 869 acres he Santa Ynez Valley Concerned Citizens filed a federal lawsuit on Photo contributed of open space and 206 acres of agriculture. Nov. 1 challenging the taking of the The agreement between Santa Barbara County and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians allows for 143 one- The agreement also allows the tribe to build 1,400-acre Camp 4 property into trust by acre residential lots to be developed on 194 acres, with 869 acres of open space and 206 acres of agriculture. The a tribal hall on the land, holding up to 100 events annually. the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. agreement also allows the tribe to build a tribal hall on the land, holding up to 100 events annually. An ad hoc committee consisting of The suit asserts that the Department of Barbara County Board of Supervisors’ Hartmann and 1st District Supervisor Das federal government’s Camp 4 decision be Interior’s decision to take this action was Williams has worked with the tribe and new based on an insufficient analysis of its envi- fully aired and adjudicated in federal court. ” decision to approve the Camp 4 land use agreement on Oct. 31, which requires the Tribal Chairman Kenneth Kahn on the agreeThe suit, brought by SYVCC and three ronmental and land-use impacts as required county to withdraw their litigation that also ment since February of this year. Committee homeowners who live adjacent to the trust by federal law. challenges this “fee-to-trust” decision. members said they met nine times to discuss property, alleges that the analysis of the “Residents of the Santa Ynez Valley have At the county hearing, 3rd District Suthe tribe waiving its sovereign immunity exhausted the administrative remedies avail- environmental, land-use, economic and other impacts as required by federal law was whol- pervisor Joan Hartmann said the agreement over the development and other terms of the able to us, and we are now turning to the federal courts to seek relief from the Bureau ly inadequate and insufficient upon which to wasn’t about selling out the valley. She said agreement, including financial arrangements and limits on future use of the land. of Indian Affairs’ illegal action on Camp 4. It base the federal decision to take Camp 4 into that, with the threat of House Resolution 1491, the county has two options: to work Also opposed to the agreement was the impacts not only valley residents, but places trust. Instead of requiring a more comprewith the tribe or have no say at all. Santa Ynez Valley Coalition, which stated hensive Environmental Impact Statement, a tax burden on all county taxpayers,” said “Some suggest we should just say no that by approving this agreement the county Greg Simon of Santa Ynez Valley Concerned the Bureau of Indian Affairs relied instead on whatever the consequences – but in my is encouraging the tribe to request more fee a more limited Environmental Analysis. Citizens. “Consequently, we felt it imperaexperience, the risks are too great a no will The suit comes at the heels of the Santa tive that the significant legal flaws with the to trust transactions.

Complaint asserts that the Department of Interior’s decision to take this action was based on an insufficient analysis of its environmental and land-use impacts

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6 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

TEACHER AND ATTORNEY

Former county Supervisor Joni Gray dead at 75 Orcutt native remembered for her tireless and dedicated service to the Santa Maria Valley By Janene Scully

Noozhawk North County Editor

ormer Santa Barbara County Supervisor Joni Gray, who died Nov. 22, was remembered for her tireless and dedicated service to the Santa Maria Valley in many different ways. Gray, 75, reportedly collapsed in court earlier in the week, and died suddenly that Wednesday evening at Marian Regional Medical Center. Her memorial was Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Santa Maria Elks Lodge. Gray spent two years on the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission before being picked in 1998 by Gov. Pete Wilson to fill a Board of Supervisors vacancy for the Fourth District. The vacancy for the district representing Orcutt and Lompoc arose when incumbent Tim Staffel was appointed judge. She then ran for the office and was elected Nov. 3, 1998, for a two-year term. On March 7, 2000, Gray was re-elected to her

Gray’s involvement in the Elks Rodeo began as a young girl riding in the parade, and included being a queen candidate, parade grand marshal, parade announcer and host of an annual barn party. “Joni was a fascinating woman with North County roots that ran deeper than most,” said Fifth District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino. “She embraced the Western lifestyle and was a huge supporter of the Elks Rodeo and FFA. “As a huge sports fan, she has been the backbone and driving influence behind the North County Athletic Roundtable that recognizes local high school athletes,” Lavagnino said. “I will miss her greatly and hope I can live up to her legacy.” She was married to George Wittenburg and has a daughter, Samantha. A former teacher at Santa Maria High and Hancock College, Gray spent 10 years on the Santa Maria Joint Union High Noozhawk photo School District board of trustees, acted as Former county supervisor Joni Gray died unexpectedly after collapsing in court during Thanksgiving week. former County Schools Superintendent Bill Cirone’s administrative assistant, and pre“Joni was a very thoughtful and comfirst four-year term and went on to serve viously worked for then-county Supervisor passionate woman,” Wolf added. “I recall several terms through 2012, when she was Harrell Fletcher. fondly the times I would go to her home defeated by Peter Adam. Gray was a rare attorney who didn’t atfor her annual barbecue celebrating the Second District Supervisor Janet Wolf tend law school, choosing instead to study and pass the California Bar Exam to get her beginning of the Santa Maria rodeo. served with Gray for six years, recall“Joni loved and worked very hard for her license. ing the welcome and encouragement the After serving 14 years on the Board of community, and her passing will be a treveteran member provided the newcomer. Supervisors, Gray focused on her family Wolf also noted Gray was quick-witted and mendous loss to all who knew her. I know JONI GRAY CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 it will be for me,” Wolf said. extremely smart.

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2018 SB COUNTY HICKORY CLASSIC

You are cordially invited to participate in the 2018 Santa Barbara County Hickory Classic to be contested on January 27th 2018 at the Zaca Creek Golf Course in Buellton, California. This unique event includes: • Authentic period hickory clubs and golf balls (provided) • Encouraged authentic period attire • 1PM shotgun Start 18 hole competition • Proceeds to benefit California Blind & Disabled Golf Program • Format: Two Player Scramble • Rules to be governed by the Royal and Ancient G.A. Field is imited to the first 20 paid teams, Entry fee $ 85 per player to include green fees, hickory golf clubs,traditional golf balls, beverages, prizes and traditional meal following completion of the tournament.

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December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 7

LOOKING BACK

Buellton offering limited help to commercial, industrial water users Staff Report

T Contributed photo Here’s a look down memory lane at the great snowstorm in 1949. This view is looking over the Nojoqui valley where Alisal Road meets Old Coast Highway. Thanks to Curt Cragg of the Santa Ynez Historical Museum for providing the photo.

Syringe Exchange Program are at a high risk of overdose, we distribute the Narcan kits first responders and to people dependent on directly to them and train them on how to use opioids, as well as their family members and it,” Osepyan said. “We thought it was importpeers who are likely to be present when an ant and something our clients needed.” The Food and Drug Administration approved overdose occurs. Several agencies in Santa Barbara County naloxone in 1971 and its regulation varies by state. have received the training and are equipped with People who are not using prescription drugs naloxone, said Susan Klein-Rothschild, deputy may obtain naloxone for others in emergendirector of the Public Health Department. cies, according to the state Board of Pharmacy. “The goal is to get the naloxone in the com“It’s simple to use,” Osepyan said. “It’s munity and in the hands of people who would not going to do anything besides reviving the potentially need to use it,” she said. person from overdosing from opioids.” The Syringe Exchange Program operated California law eliminates criminal and by the Pacific Pride Foundation provides civil liability for “individuals who administer education and naloxone training for opioid naloxone to someone suspected of experioverdoses at its Santa Barbara, Lompoc and encing an overdose after receiving it along Santa Maria offices. with required training,” according to the state Pacific Pride distributed 254 nasal-spray kits Department of Public Health. Pharmacists’ authority to furnish naloxacross the county last fiscal year, according one was established by AB 1535, a state law to Ken Osepyan, education and prevention coordinator for the nonprofit organization. enacted in 2014. The kits saved 82 lives in the 2016-2017 fiscal year, he said. Noozhawk staff writer Brooke Holland can be “Because many of the participants in the reached at bholland@noozhawk.com.

SHERIFF CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

he Buellton City Council has approved funding for a commercial/industrial water meter program for about 20 property owners to offset the cost of replacing water meters that are larger than necessary. The council adopted the new program Nov. 9. At its Oct. 26 meeting, the council approved the continued implementation of monthly water and wastewater rate increases that were adopted in 2016, which marked the first rate increase in 20 years. Under the current water and wastewater rate structure, a fixed water meter charge varies based on the size of the meter. Some commercial and industrial users have larger water meters than necessary for their business but could get dramatic monthly savings by changing their meter to a smaller one. Previously, property owners could change their meters, at their expense, paying the city the cost of the new meter plus the labor to replace the meter itself, in addition to their own plumbing expenses. Beginning Dec. 1, commercial and industrial water customers have 90

JONI GRAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 law and estate planning practice, operating from a second-story office in Old Town Orcutt, about a block from where her parents lived when she was born more than seven decades ago. Recently she participated in the ongoing campaign to raise funds to build the new OASIS Senior Center. When the Santa Maria Valley Chamber

Beginning Dec. 1, commercial and industrial water customers have 90 days to apply to the city for meter-adjustment assistance on a first-come, firstserved basis. With $25,000 that the city has earmarked, approximately 20 customers will be able to make meter adjustments that are more fitting for the activities on their properties. days to apply to the city for meter-adjustment assistance on a first-come, first-served basis. With $25,000 that the city has earmarked, approximately 20 customers will be able to make meter adjustments that are more fitting for the activities on their properties. “I think it’s a great idea,” Mayor Holly Sierra said. Applicants must complete a meter change request, which requires the property owner to use a professional to determine the property’s actual water needs and to verify that the appropriate meter requested is the appropriate size. For more information, call City Hall at 805-688-5177. of Commerce named Gray as the recipient of the Robert F. Grogan Award for Public Service in 2014, she credited her parents for emphasizing the importance of public service. “You just learned that was part of your responsibility as a person,” she told Noozhawk. Noozhawk North County editor Janene Scully can be reached at jscully@noozhawk.com.

8 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

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December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 9

business

Accounting firm’s annual event focuses on health care By Jenny Willis

The afternoon’s program — “Affordable Care Act, Health Insurance Carriers, and The State of Single-Payer in California” — was prehe Solvang accounting firm of C&D sented by Marcus Wilson of Tolman and Wiker LLP hosted its annual luncheon for and Jason Herbison of LISI Broker Service. some 70 financial professionals at Wilson discussed the status of the Affordable Alisal Guest Ranch on Nov. 2. Care Act (also known as Obamacare), changes The firm has been hosting the event since in insurance carriers serving the Central Coast 1994, and a spokesman said it has become a and the significant increases in premiums seen favorite of financial professionals in the county. by many individuals and businesses. Attendees included bankers, investment adHerbison spoke about the proposed sinvisors, trust officers, attorneys and appraisers gle-payer system in California under the ballot initiative SB 562. His talk included the pros from leading firms in the Santa Ynez Valley and cons of the proposed single-payer system, and throughout the Central Coast. Contributing Writer

as well as the challenges in funding this type of health care system. C&D LLP partner Tammy R. Vogsland had opened the luncheon by welcoming guests and introducing C&D partners and staff in attendance. Partner Michael J. Sgobba closed the program by giving an overview of the House of Representatives’ proposed tax bill and key Photo contributed provisions included in the legislation. Some 70 financial professionals gathered for C&D LLP C&D LLP, CPAs and Advisors, established more than 50 years ago, is the largest firm of cer- luncheon. tified public accountants in the Santa Ynez Valley CPAs, serve a diverse clientele that includes individuals and companies inside and outside and among the largest in Santa Barbara County. the local area. The firm’s 34 professionals, including 11

Our patterns of giving say much about us By Kenneth Harwood Contributing Writer

his is a season when many people think of giving to private nonprofit organizations. This chart shows examples of local leaders in yearly nonprofit revenue. Locally, human services are by far the largest category of revenue, followed by education, chambers of commerce, and charitable social clubs. Nationally, the pattern of giving is to be most generous to religion, followed by education, human services, and foundations. Religion may well be more important to local giving than suggested by the chart. Reported revenues are from the website GuideStar, which displays data from Internal Revenue Service form 990. Churches and similar organizations are not required to file tax returns with IRS. Human services rank first locally and third nationally. Local prominence of human services seems to reflect our area’s long-time attractions as a place in which to retire, among other possible reasons. Human services rank ahead of education here, perhaps because of

Montecito Bank & Trust reports growth Staff Report

Graphic by Kenneth Harwood

the unusually large numbers of the retired. Yearly revenues in the latest reporting year appear to be related in part to size and wealth of community. Our support of chambers of commerce and charitable social clubs seems to reflect our preferences for small businesses and civic responsibilities. Our patterns of giving say much about us. They help to catalog our priorities in serving human needs and wants. They are an example of behavioral economics, a subject that won the Nobel memorial award in economic sciences in 2017 for Richard H. Thaler of

University of Chicago. Please go online to GuideStar and sort the entries by name of community to see federal tax returns of local private nonprofits. The website of Giving USA tracks national patterns of giving. Solvang Lutheran Home operates Atterdag Village retirement facilities, and its yearly gross revenues are combined with those of its foundation for purposes of this report. Our local economic area includes Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos Valley. Kenneth Harwood is the economist for the Solvang Chamber of Commerce.

ontecito Bank & Trust has reported year-over-year growth in net income, loans, deposits

and assets. Net income grew 11.52 percent, to $12.2 million, driven by strong loan growth of 16 percent during the same period, or $127 million, to $924 million. Deposits grew 3 percent, or $35 million, and assets grew 3.64 percent, from $1.3 billion to $1.35 billion. The bank reported its total capital at 12.7 percent, exceeding the 10 percent regulatory minimum required to be considered well-capitalized. Montecito Bank & Trust, an S Corporation founded in 1975, is the oldest and largest locally owned community bank in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. It operates 10 branch offices, including one in Solvang.

PG&E names new leaders in power generating decommissioning. Welsch joined PG&E in 1984 and has acific Gas and Electric Company has served in various leadership and staff popromoted James Welsch, previously its sitions, including vice president of nuclear vice president for nuclear generation, as generation, station director, operations services the utility’s new chief nuclear officer and has director, operations manager, operations shift appointed Jon Franke as its vice president for manager, control room supervisor and shift power generation. engineer. In his new role, Welsch will continue to He received his NRC Senior Reactor Operbe responsible for the operations of Diablo ator License in 2000. Canyon Power Plant in Avila Beach. He will Franke joined PG&E in January, bringing also serve as the utility’s lead contact with with him more than 30 years of nuclear and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the energy industry experience obtained while Institute of Nuclear Power Operations. working in positions of increasing levels of Franke, who had served as vice president for responsibility in the U.S. Navy and at Carolina generation technical services, will now lead Power and Light, Progress Energy, Duke EnerPG&E’s Power Generation organization with gy, PPL Corporation and Talen Energy. responsibility for the operation of the compaAs an officer in the U.S. Navy, Franke ny’s natural gas, hydroelectric and renewable served in several nuclear power and fleet power plant fleet. In addition, he will continue assignments and retired with the rank of lieuto lead utility functions related to power plant tenant commander. Staff Report

Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images Pacific Gas and Electric Company has promoted James Welsch, previously its vice president for nuclear generation, as the utility’s new chief nuclear officer and has appointed Jon Franke as its vice president for power generation.

10 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

spotlight Santa Ynez native Art Alvarez ended up working as a lead artist for Disney. There he created characters that include Pocahontas.

Alvarez worked as an airbrush artist in the Puente Hills Mall in the mid-1980s. Photos contributed

Alvarez got his start at Disney by painting character heads and attraction backdrops before he became a lead artist.

Alvarez works on “The Prince and the Pauper.”

From Rat Fink to Mickey Mouse, Santa Ynez artist drew a successful career By Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

rt Alvarez remembers Marjorie Hasley, his teacher at Santa Ynez Elementary School, scolding him after school as his parents sat and listened. She was unhappy because he was drawing on everything instead of doing his schoolwork. “I remember listening to her as she was lecturing me about not focusing on my studies and catching me drawing on my papers, but then she pulled out this picture (that she had done) that was so well drawn I thought it was a photograph,” Alvarez said. Mrs. Hasley then told him he had a real talent in art and there was a right time and place for it — but not while she was teaching other subjects, he recalled with a laugh. Recently, he was thrilled when his former teacher sent him that drawing that she had shown him so long ago. He proudly displays it at his home in Los Angeles. Alvarez seems to have found the right times and places for his art. He has had a successful art career, showcasing his skills at venues that range from shopping malls to car shows to working as a lead artist for Disney. He is now working on two books, one solely on his art and the other in more of a memoir style. Alvarez grew up in a ranching family, working on a cattle ranch in Santa Ynez. He helped lay irrigation pipes and work and feed cattle, but he knew that art was his calling. He loved to spend his time drawing hot rods and

In 2006, Alvarez created this Illustration that went to New York City for the opening of the Disney Store in Times Square.

monster trucks. After graduating from Santa Ynez Valley Union High School in 1976 he moved to Modesto and became a manager at a Foot Locker in the mall in Turlock. “It was a great job, and on my days off I would wander around the car shows and swap meets, which is where I saw airbrushing for the first time and I was enthralled,” Alvarez said.

When Aaron Brothers art supply store opened, Alvarez went in and asked about airbrushing and how he could learn. After bringing a few samples back to show the art store clerk, he started setting up a booth at the swap meet and airbrushing classic cars on T-shirts. “I sold more in one day than I made in a week at Foot Locker,” Alvarez recalled. As a first-generation American in his family,

Alvarez said that when he moved home to study art his parents weren’t so sure about it. He spent his weekends at the swap meets in Nipomo and San Luis Obispo, selling his T-shirts, and after a few months he was making more money than he could by holding a steady job — and he was contributing income to his family. “The airbrushing scene was exploding in the early 1980s, and my cousin invited me to Los Angeles to showcase my skills. I caught the attention of Big Daddy Ed Roth, who created the Rat Fink character, and he became my mentor for several years,” Alvarez said. Rat Fink was the anti-Mickey Mouse, which is ironic since Alvarez would one day go to work for the creator of Mickey Mouse. Rat Fink is usually either green or gray, comically grotesque and depraved-looking with bulging, bloodshot eyes, an oversized mouth with sharp, narrow teeth, and wearing red overalls with the initials “R.F.” on them. He is often shown driving cars or motorcycles. After a few years Alvarez decided to strike out on his own and ended up being asked to design a few airbrushes for Badger Air-Brush Company. Then he traveled the country lecturing and giving “how-to” demonstrations. In his personal life, 1985 was very important because his son was born. In 1991 his wife was pregnant with their daughter and Alvarez said his world was rocked when she asked for a divorce. “When I was working in an art show in Anaheim a few years later, I was again in the right place and time as Disney executives ALVAREZ CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 11

star lifestyle

Buellton’s Hampton Inn wins ‘Best in the Valley’ scarecrow contest

Natural Materials, Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café. Honorable mention went to he 2017 Harvest Cup for best The Doggy Door / Community Craft. scarecrow in the valley went to the The overall Los Olivos winner that repreHampton Inn and Suites in Buellton, sented the community was the Fess Parker which will hold the trophy through the end of Wine Country Inn / The Bear and Star. next fall’s Scarecrow Fest. In Buellton, the winners were: Windmill The award and others were given during Nursery, Best Use of Natural Materials; Moa valley-wide chamber mixer held at the nighetti’s One Stop Livestock Supplies, Most Hampton Inn on Nov. 15. Humorous; Buscador Wine, Best Use of The 2017 Scarecrow Fest – the fifth annual Business Theme; and Hampton Inn & Suites valleywide competition — included nearly Buellton/Santa Ynez Valley, Spookiest. 150 participating businesses, organizations The Home Connection in Solvang won the and individuals in Ballard, Buellton, Los 2016 Harvest Cup for its entry titled “SuccuOlivos, Solvang and Santa Ynez. During the lent Sam.” festival, visitors and local residents were Each of the participating towns holds its encouraged to enjoy the scarecrow sights and own Scarecrow Fest and associated contest to vote to determine viewers’ favorites. select a winner that will represent each town The overall winning scarecrows from each Photo contributed for the valley-wide Harvest Cup trophy. town (Solvang-Ballard, Santa Ynez, Buellton The Hampton Inn and Suites in Buellton won the 2017 Harvest Cup in the annual Scarecrow Fest. The Valley’s first Scarecrow Fest was held and Los Olivos) were eligible for the “2017 Inn & Cottages and Solvang Knives; Most represented the community in the valleywide in Solvang in 2010, initiated by the Solvang Harvest Cup: Best in the Valley” title and 3rd Wednesday committee. contest. trophy, with the winner selected by an anony- Danish, The Copenhagen House; Spookiest, For more information, go to www. Wandering Dog Wine Bar; and Most HumorIn Los Olivos, with 24 businesses particmous panel of judges. syvscarecrows.com or follow the event on ous, ESKO ESKO. ipating, the winners were: Best Scarecrow, The winners of the popular vote in SolIn addition to the seven category winners Fess Parker Wine Country Inn/The Bear and Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Scarecrow vang were: Best Photo Opportunity, The voters and visitors are encouraged to use the determined by public voting, the judges Star; Most Humorous, Los Olivos General Home Connection; Best Use of Recycled Materials, Toccata Wines; Best Use of a hashtag #syvscarecrows in on-line discusawarded “Best Scarecrow” in Solvang Store; Spookiest, Stolpman Vineyards; Best Business Theme, a tie between Solvang to Hanson’s Clock Shop Jewelers, which Business Theme, Los Olivos Lemons; Best sions of the SYV Scarecrow Fest. Staff Report

Turkey Bingo brings generations of families together Staff Report

atie Pearson has been playing Turkey Bingo since she was a little girl, and now her husband Justin and her daughter Stella, 5, are happy to be a part of the annual tradition at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall. “I love that my daughter will grow up playing as I did — and I’ve never won yet, but I am always hopeful,” Pearson laughed. The Vets Hall was packed with hundreds of people who waited in line to get in and take their seats in hopes of winning the 60 available turkeys. Turkey Bingo has been around in the Santa Ynez Valley for more than 100 years, and this year’s event was held on Saturday, Nov. 18. (The prizes are frozen, not live, as they were in the beginning.) Turkey Bingo hasn’t changed much since the beginning. It still costs just a dime to play a game, although the turkeys are bought frozen from El Rancho Marketplace. The final turkey won during the event also comes with a basket full of Thanksgiving goodies. The event was begun in 1913 by the Hejls Minde 23 chapter of the Danish Society of Dania of California and Nevada. The wives of the Dania men started the Danish Ladies Society, Dannebrog of Dania, and took over the event in 1937. The Alpha Pi sorority then took over in the late 1980s and has run the event since.

MARINE CORPS TRADITION

Rabobank helping collect Toys for Tots Staff Report

R Photo by Victoria Martinez Turkey Bingo hasn’t changed much since 1913. It still costs just a dime to play a game, and it’s still fun for many local families.

In the days when live turkeys were awarded as prizes, “we would take the turkey home and hang it from the laundry line until dad could take care of it, in other words,” said Kathy Kelsey of Alpha Pi. There are no more live turkeys, as there were in the days at Dania Hall, which stood on the site of the current Petro’s Cafe in Solvang. But hundreds of people still flock to the event in hopes of winning a frozen bird for Thanksgiving dinner.

“This is our first time coming and I am surprised at how many people showed up. We will definitely be back,” said Jody Williams of Solvang. “As long as we can keep it 10 cents we will. We want anyone to be able to come and play no matter what their situation in life might be,” Kelsey said. For more information, including ways to contribute to next year’s event, call Kelsey at 688-5804 or Shirley Hernandez at 688-4607.

abobank is teaming up again with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program to help children in need receive gifts this holiday season. Through mid-December, community members can donate new, unwrapped toys at Rabobank’s 14 branches across Santa Barbara County, including the ones at 3600 Sagunto St. in Santa Ynez, 1571 Mission Drive in Solvang, and 61 W. Highway 246 in Buellton. The toys will be distributed locally by Toys for Tots volunteers. Parents and legal guardians who want to request a toy can visit Toys for Tots’ Request a Toy web page https://santa-maria-ca.toysfortots.org/ local-coordinator-sites/lco-sites/default. aspx and then clicking the “Request a Toy.”

12 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

Local dancers to perform ‘Nutcracker’ with Moscow Ballet Staff Report

ive student dancers from the Fossemalle Dance Studio in Santa Ynez have been chosen by audition to perform in the Moscow Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13, at the Arlington Theater in Santa Barbara. The local dancers chosen are Citlaly Alvarado, Camryn Kemp, Taylor Kemp, Ella Raffo and Amanda Russell. “Their dedicated training has paid off, as they have been chosen to perform alongside the professional dancers from the Moscow Ballet,” said Christine Fossemalle, owner of the dance studio in Santa Ynez. Moscow Ballet ballerinas have worked with Photo contributed more than 100,000 American children since Five dancers from Fossemalle Dance Studio in Santa Ynez 1993, sharing culture and inspiring excellence. will perform in the Moscow Ballet’s production of “The Among other activities, the ballerinas teach Nutcracker” on Dec. 13 in Santa Barbara. Vaganova Master Classes; share Russian culture, language and legends; and rehearse and many backdrops created by “La La Land’ perform side-by-side with teen violinists in set-concept designer Carl Sprague, and its every city on their annual tours, which include Russian focus that includes life-sized Matrynearly 40 ballerinas and danseurs. oshka dolls, Russian folk legends Ded Moroz The Fossemalle dancers have obtained parts (Father Christmas) and Snegurochka (Snow in the Spanish Variation, the Russian Variation Maiden), and Troika Sleigh. and the Arabian Variation. Some have also Tickets start at $28. Groups of 10 or more been included in the Party Scene. and Girl Scout troops can receive discounts by “Each of them have been in rehearsal week- calling 800-320-1733. Discounts for seniors over the age of 65, active and retired military ly and are looking forward to the opportunity members, and Auto Club members are availto perform on the Arlington’s stage with such high-caliber professionals,” Fossemalle added. able from www.nutcracker.com/buy-tickets. Single tickets are available at www. Moscow Ballet’s “Great Russian Nutcracknutcracker.com/buy-tickets or by calling Ticker” show is known for its award-winning etmaster at 800-745-3000. principal dancers, lavish Victorian costumes,

SEEKING NOMINATIONS

Jewish teens eligible for Diller scholarships Staff Report

he Helen Diller Family Foundation is seeking nominations of five Jewish teenagers in California who could each win a $36,000 scholarship for “extraordinary leadership in repairing the world.” The foundation, a supporting foundation of the Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties, will give out the 2018 Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards. Now entering its 12th year, the national award annually recognizes up to 15 Jewish teens with $36,000 each for extraordinary leadership in repairing the world. Up to five teens from California and ten from communities across the United States will be recognized for their humanitarian efforts. Nominators can visit www.dillerteenawards.org to begin the nomination and application process. The deadline for nominations is Dec. 18, and the deadline for applications is Jan. 8, 2018. Bay Area philanthropist Helen Diller

launched the Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards in 2007 to recognize and encourage the next generation of social change-makers embodying the spirit of tikkun olam, a Jewish precept meaning to repair the world. Beyond bolstering national recognition of the teens and their projects, the Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards foster a growing network of award recipient alumni collaborating on leadership, innovation, and volunteer service across the nation. Previous award recipients from all over the country have taken on issues as diverse as homelessness, gun violence, rare diseases, social and economic inequality, and education gaps. They have been recognized by some of the world’s foremost institutions and leaders, including the United Nations Foundation, the White House, the Clinton Global Initiative, Forbes 30 Under 30, the Jefferson Awards, CNN Heroes and the Nickelodeon HALO Awards. For more information, email dillerteenaward@sfjcf.org or call 415512-6432.

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DECEMBER EVENTS AT THE LIBRARY Preschool Story Times: Bringing your preschooler to story time will help get them ready to read! Stay for a craft or play session afterward and make a new friend. Mondays 11:00 a.m., Buellton Library; Tuesdays 10:30 a.m., Solvang Library

tape. A simple switch will allow you to turn the light on and off. Kids can take home their creations. Space is limited, please reserve a place online or by calling the libraries.

SB Reads: Discussion with Emily St. John Mandel, Tuesday, Wiggly Storytime: Wednesdays 10:30 am, Solvang Library Dec. 5, 7 p.m., Marjorie Luke Theater, SB. This month, SBPL’s Short stories, songs, rhymes, and activities for babies, toddlers annual community reading and discussion program featuring and preschoolers. Be ready to participate with your child, and the riveting post-apocalyptic novel, Station Eleven, wraps up spend some time being silly together. with a free author event! One-on-One Tutoring: E and Audiobooks on your Mobile Device: Tuesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m., Buellton Library. Drop in for a free 20 minute session with volunteer Bethany C., and start accessing the library’s free online materials. Bring your device (E-reader, tablet, laptop, or smartphone). Reading with Dogs: Wednesdays 4:30 - 5:30 p.m., Buellton; Thursdays 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Solvang. Our Tail Waggin’ Tutors help young readers practice reading skills by reading aloud to the kindest, least judgmental listeners around. Drop in for a 10-15 minute individual session with a “tutor.”

Poetry Challenge: Live Reading Wednesday, Dec. 6, 5:30 p.m., Solvang Library. SYV Middle school students (6th–8th grades) were invited in November to submit a single page poem on the theme of the “awkward.” This reading and reception will celebrate all submissions. Co-sponsored by the Santa Ynez Valley Arts Association and hosted by poet Steve Braff. TED & Conversation: Thursday, Dec. 7, 1 - 1:50 p.m., Solvang Library. Come view one or two short talks from the famous TED Talks series, and explore the topic together afterward. Call the library for information on the topic. Monthly on FIRST Thursdays. December’s theme is Geology.

DIY Crafts: Anytime, Buellton & Solvang Libraries. Ask at the desk for the craft box! Drop-in crafts are always available Monarch Butterflies – Facts and Fate: Thursday, Dec. 7, to all ages. 7:30 p.m. – Los Olivos Library/Historic Grange Hall. Join us as local entomologist Marion Schlinger presents an informative talk on one of the most familiar and regal butterflies in our Board Game Day: Friday, Dec. 1, 12-5 p.m., Buellton Library. midst, the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus). Following the talk there will be a screening of the fabulous PBS NOVA Join us for a Station Eleven themed game day. We will have video “The Incredible Journey of the Butterflies,” which our usual family board games, as well as Pandemic. showcases the monarch butterflies’ 2000-mile migration in Maker Workshops: Light Up Ornaments & Cards, Saturday, the eastern United States. Dec. 2, 1–2 p.m., Solvang Library; Saturday, Dec. 9, 4–5 p.m., Adam Miller: Folksongs of the Winter Holidays, WednesBuellton Library; Come make a holiday project using Paper day Dec. 13, 12 - 1:00 p.m., Solvang Library; Friday Dec. 15, Circuits! Decorate your pop-up holiday scene with holiday stickers, and then learn to light it up with an LED and copper 4–5 p.m. – Buellton Library; Enjoy a free concert with this

EVENTS

renowned American folksinger and virtuoso autoharpist. For all ages. Movie Afternoon: Polar Express, Saturday, Dec. 16, 2–4 p.m., Buellton Library. 2004 Fantasy/Drama. G 100 minutes Family Board Game Day: Thursday, Dec. 21, 12 to 6 p.m. – Solvang Library. Come play games, classic & new! Make a date and meet your friends! This month we will play for White Elephant prizes. Bring something old but fun or offbeat to exchange, wrapped. ALL EVENTS ARE FREE TO THE PUBLIC. Thanks to the Friends of the Library of SYV and Buellton Friends of the Library for assistance in funding programs.

LIBRARY INFO & HOURS Buellton: 140 W. Highway 246, 805-688-3115, BuelltonLibrary @santabarbaraCA.gov. Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, noon–5:30 p.m. ; Sunday & Thursday, closed Solvang: 1745 Mission Drive, 805-688-4214, SolvangLibrary@ santabarbaraCA.gov. Tuesday & Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Wednesday & Thursday, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sunday & Monday, closed Los Olivos: Grange Hall, 2374 Alamo Pintado Ave. Saturday, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Santa Ynez: 3598 Sagunto St. Saturday, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. ALL LIBRARIES WILL BE CLOSED the morning of December 8 for staff training

Photo contributed The “Festival of Carols,” with more than 45 local singers and a professional orchestra, will be a holiday treat on Dec. 16-17 at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall.

Valley chorale to present ‘Festival of Carols’ Dec. 16-17 Staff Report

he Santa Ynez Valley Master Chorale, Youth Ensemble and Orchestra will present their holiday concert series, “Festival of Carols,” on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 16 and 17, at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall. Under the direction of Dr. Michael Eglin, the Saturday concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. and the Sunday concert at 3 p.m. Eglin selected the music for this program around R. Vaughan Williams’ “Fantasia of Carols,” which is composed on traditional English carols that the audience will easily recognize. The program also has an eclectic mix of works by Vince Guaraldi, Mel Torme, Robert Shaw, John Rutter, and traditional Spanish, French and Danish carols.

o CONCERT CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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14 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

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arts & nonprofits

‘FREAKY FRIDAY’ IS FULL OF FUN

Updated production, set to music, appeals to young and old alike By Daniel Lahr

Contributung Writer

o you remember when you were a teenager and couldn’t wait for graduation day? I remember because I was finally going to be an adult and have freedom. Now, as a father of two kids, I look at high schoolers today and I am reminded of the good old days when it was easy. Life experiences are what make us mature, and with that maturity comes a new perspective. PCPA’s latest production of Disney’s “Freaky Friday” helps shine some light on all those perspectives, in musical form. The stage musical of “Freaky Friday” is based on the 1972 novel by Mary Rodgers, the daughter of Richard Rogers of Rogers and Hammerstein, as well as the 1976 and 2003 Disney films. In all versions, mother and daughter magically trade bodies and, in the end, each one sees life from the other’s perspective and thus gains respectful insight into the other’s life. This adaptation modernizes the timeline to connect with younger audiences through all aspects of the production, including the set design and musical score. Another reason for its success is its appeal to both adults and kids. Molly Dobbs plays Ellie, the teenager who seems to magically (and very easily) trade places with her mother Katherine, played by Karin Hendricks. These two actresses do a fantastic job of acting like the opposite

Photo by Marion Schlinger Monarch butterflies are at risk from habitat loss and agricultural impacts.

Photo contributed In this hilarious contemporary update of an American classic, a mother and daughter see what it is to be a family when they experience each other’s lives first-hand for a day.

generation. You can easily see their mannerisms change when the transformation happens, all the while they are singing and dancing. You didn’t see Jamie Lee Curtis or Lindsay Lohan spontaneously breaking into song in

past film adaptations, but this musical adaptation debuted only a year ago. The songs themselves are enjoyable and the cast members sing their hearts out. The songs move FRIDAY CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

Everyday heroes celebrated at Discovery Museum’s Super Hero Fitness Day Staff Report

ore than 150 people enjoyed action-packed fitness demonstrations by the Santa Maria Valley YMCA, crafts, tricycle races, and a salute to veterans with Vandenberg Air Force Base and public safety heroes at the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum’s Super Hero Fitness Day on Nov. 11. “Today we honor our everyday super heroes,” said the museum’s Executive Director Chris Slaughter. Those attending heard about development of the Vandenberg Launch Experience exhibit coming in 2018. The exhibit will allow students to act as launch operators and will include a set of consoles with a large video display screen to simulate a launch into space. Photo by Victoria Martinez “The base is glad to be a part of educating Personal trainer Mayra Cisneros from the Santa Maria YMCA leads “fun fitness” classes for kids during the Discovery HERO CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 Museum’s Super Hero Fitness Day.

Local entomologist to discuss fate of the Monarch Staff Report

ocal entomologist Marion Schlinger will talk about “Monarch Butterflies – Facts and Fate” in a free lecture at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Santa Ynez Valley Grange, 2374 Alamo Pintado Ave. in Los Olivos. Schlinger is a board member of the Santa Ynez Valley Natural History Society, which is sponsoring the talk along with the Los Olivos Library. Monarchs, one of the most familiar and regal butterflies in our midst, are at risk from habitat loss and agricultural impacts, according to Schlinger. These issues involving the fates (both natural and man-made) of the monarchs will be addressed along with conservation efforts that are or can be implemented. There will also be a screening of the PBS “Nova” video “The Incredible Journey of the Butterflies,” which showcases the monarch butterflies’ annual 2,000-mile migration. Though mainly illustrating the monarch migration in the eastern United States, it highlights the fascinating and treacherous journey these butterflies make with some amazing photography. Despite years of studies on monarchs, it is still a mystery how they navigate this journey with clockwork precision each fall. For more information, call 693-5683 or email synature@west.net.

16 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

Eyvind Earle Winter exhibition on display at Elverhøj Museum Staff Report

inter has arrived early at Elverhøj Museum of History & Art with the debut of the holiday exhibition “Eyvind Earle — Winter.” Earle was an acclaimed California artist, author and illustrator and one-time Solvang resident noted for his landscape painting and contribution to the background illustration and styling of classic Disney animated films including “Sleeping Beauty” and “Lady and the Tramp.” He is also famous for his Christmas and holiday greeting cards, creating more than 800 designs during the 57 years between 1938 and 1995. The Elverhoj gallery will be showcasing serigraphs and paintings that are the basis of Earle’s famous Christmas cards. This is a special opportunity for collectors, as limited-edition serigraphs will be available for purchase. To further share Earle’s work, books and some of his famous cards will be offered in the Elverhoj Museum Store. The exhibition will remain on display through Jan. 28. Earle (1916-2000) was born in New York but raised in Hollywood. An accomplished artist from an early age, he landed a job as an assistant sketch artist for United Artists while still in his teens. From the time of his solo show in France at just 14 years old, Earle’s fame grew steadily. “I never planned to be involved with Christmas card designing,” Earle said. “It simply happened as a means of survival. To me, every

Photos contributed Winter art by the late Eyvind Earle is on display at the Elverhøj Museum through Jan. 28.

day is Christmas. Every creation is divine. Cover the ugliest run-down shack with snow, and it becomes a magic vision of purity.” Earle’s career encompassed many different fields. By the early 1950s he was working as a background painter for Walt Disney Studios, where he contributed to classic animated films. He also painted the dioramas for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle at Disneyland in Anaheim, and in 2015 was named a “Disney Legend,” sharing that title with other great talents such as Johnny Depp, George Lucas and others. Returning to painting full time in 1966, Earle created extensive watercolors, oil, sculptures and drawings. In 1974, he began making

limited edition serigraphs. “I do not try to copy an oil painting,” he said, “but rather I create a new work of art using the silk screening process.” For 10 years between 1968 and 1978, Earle lived in Solvang. “The imagery derived from themes of the Santa Ynez Valley are unmistakable in many of Earle’s paintings and serigraphs,” said Elverhoj Executive Director Esther Jacobsen Bates. “He found inspiration in the natural beauty of the Central Coast.” Exhibition includes a screening of the animated short “The Story of Christmas,” with animation by Earle and a musical score by Roger Wagner,

at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8. A discussion will follow. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the free event. A panel talk on “Eyvind’s Influence in Animation and Film” takes place at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan 27, with a social hour following. Elverhøj Museum of History & Art, at 1624 Elverhoy Way in Solvang, is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. There is no charge for admission, but a donation of $5 is suggested. For more information, go to www.elverhoj. org or call 805-686-1211.

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December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 17

GARDEN MAGIC

Chumash donate $10,000 for American Indian veterans memorial Staff Report

Photo by Derek Glas Photography and Graphics Fairies brought magic to the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden on Nov. 19 during the garden’s Fall Fairy Festival. Those attending could make fairy gardens, willow wands, fairy wings and other crafts. Face painting was also available along with fairy horses that roamed the magical fairy garden throughout the afternoon. The Botanic Garden hosts events throughout the year, and the next will be its annual Christmas wreath-making class from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16 For more information, visit www.santaynezvalleybotanicgarden.com.

CONCERT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

“This is a holiday celebration in the valley and one not to be missed,” Eglin said. “Our program offers something for everyone and celebrates the holiday with a carol singa-long, radio classics like “Silver Bells,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” and “The Christmas Song,” and rounds and rhymes from our cultural past.” Tickets purchased in advance are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors (65 and over)

and youth (18 and under). They may be purchased at The Book Loft, El Rancho Marketplace, from chorale members, online at www.syvchorale.org or by calling 805350-4241. Tickets at the door will be $25 and $20. Chorale members, who range from novice singers to professionals and from 8 to more than 80 years old, come from throughout the county. The chorale is a nonprofit organization, coming into its 40th year of presenting choral music in the valley.

uring its annual Veterans Day Honor Luncheon at Root 246 in Solvang, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians announced a $10,000 donation to the American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans Committee for its efforts to construct a monument at the Riverside National Cemetery. The annual event, which is hosted by the Chumash Elders Board, featured a presentation from world-renowned sculptor A. Thomas Schomberg. In addition to his famous “Rocky” statue in Philadelphia and other sculptures that are exhibited and collected internationally, Schomberg has created “The Gift,” which is meant to commemorate the nation’s gratitude to the American Indian for more than 200 years of military service. “I was challenged to produce an image that will be dedicated to your service and your ancestors’ service,” said Schomberg, as he stood next to a one-fourth-sized replica of “The Gift” during the presentation. “Why use a sculpture to tell a story like that? Because you are the veterans. You don’t talk about your service. It is up to us, as the artists, to tell about your service and what you’ve given to this country to make it so great.” Schomberg’s creation would be the focal point of the proposed American Indian and Alaska Native Memorial, which is seeking funds for its construction. Maxine Littlejohn, secretary-treasurer for the tribe’s Business Committee, presented the check to Schomberg after his stirring presentation. “It is with great pride that we announce our

Photo contributed Sculptor A. Thomas Schomberg accepts a donation from Maxine Littlejohn, secretary-treasurer of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Business Committee, in front of a one-fourth-sized version of “The Gift.”

commitment to assist the American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans Memorial Committee for its efforts … to honor and recognize American Indian and Alaska native veterans for their service to our country,” she said. The proposed monument would be the first national memorial to specifically honor the service of American Indian and Alaska native veterans at any of the nation’s cemeteries. The Riverside National Cemetery is home to several national memorials, including the Medal of Honor Memorial, the Veterans Memorial, and the POW/MIA Memorial. It encompasses nearly 1,000 acres, the nation’s third largest in terms of land area. It is also the most active by numbers of interments among all national cemeteries. For more information on the proposed American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans Monument, visit www.aianveteransmemorial.com. To find out more about the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation and its giving programs, visit www.santaynezchumash.org.

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There's always something to see or do in the SYV. Go to VisitSYV.com/events for a full list of activities, and get inspired by December highlights below.

S.Y. KITCHEN HOLIDAY SOIRÉE

LOS ALAMOS CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

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18 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

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COWBELLE OF THE YEAR

Staff Report

or the second year, the American Farm Bureau is offering a one-day conference to help entrepreneurs tap into billions of dollars that venture capital managers are looking to put into agriculture and food businesses. The 2018 Farm Bureau Agriculture Investment Summit, part of the organization’s annual convention, is slated for Jan. 6 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn. Geared toward entrepreneurs, investors and Farm Bureau staff who want to support entrepreneurs in their states, the conference will address “pitching” ideas to investors and working with them in the early stages of business development, attracting later-stage private equity investors, and dealing with legal issues. “As a start-up, there is a cost to going out and meeting people and raising capital. One of the best things about this conference is the American Farm Bureau is bringing together some of the top ag tech investors in the country. Having access to those resources in one place, at one event, is an outstanding opportunity,” said Casey Niemann, founder of AgriSync, an app that allows advisors to reach their farmer-customers on any connected device. The costs to attend are $195 for Farm Bureau members and $225 for others. To register, visit www.strongruralamerica.com. For more information, email Lisa Benson at lisab@fb.org.

Photos contributed JoeAnn Branquinho was recently honored as Cowbelle of the Year by the Santa Barbara County Cattlewomen. “I love riding to the top of a mountain just to see what’s on the other side. There is nothing else like being out on the range, gathering cattle and being close to nature,” said Cowbelle of the Year JoeAnn Branquinho.

JoeAnn Branquinho honored By Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

oeAnn Branquinho remembers helping her dad gather cattle at the tender age of 5, riding her Shetland pony along her family’s property in the hills of Foxen Canyon Road. “Sometimes we would find a skeleton of a cow buried in quicksand in the dry Santa Maria River. Some don’t have the smarts to follow the others along the rocks. There isn’t another lifestyle that is so honest and therapeutic. I couldn’t imagine my life growing up any other way,” she said. Branquinho was recently honored as Cowbelle of the Year by the Santa Barbara County Cattlewomen at their annual dinner at the Red Barn in Santa Ynez.

Branquinho said she was surprised completely at the honor and was grateful to her fellow Cattlewomen for choosing her. “I am so touched, as this group has been in my life forever and I’ve made great friendships and memories with these ladies. Passing this lifestyle on is the most important to me, and seeing my children and their children, and my siblings’ children, doing it as well makes my heart happy,” she said. The Branquinho name is known throughout the cowboy world. Her nephew Luke is a five-time world champion steer wrestler, and his brother Tony is a rodeo teacher at Fresno State University. Branquinho grew up in the Los Alamos and Sisquoc areas with her brother John and sister Lori (Gonsalves). She recalls riding her horse to a one-room schoolhouse at Benjamin

Foxen Elementary and then going right home to help her family on the farm. “I love riding to the top of a mountain just to see what’s on the other side. There is nothing else like being out on the range, gathering cattle and being close to nature,” she said. Her father would pay her in calves, which helped her build a herd of her own that she kept at an average of about 20 head. “In high school my friends loved coming out and doing chores like shoveling manure and feeding the horses, cattle and other livestock because they didn’t have the space and freedom in town,” she said with a giggle. After graduating from Santa Maria High School in 1961 she attended Hancock College for business management. She and her first COWBELLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

Cabbage is a star among fall vegetables By Carolyn Givens

Unlike the microclimate surrounding Santa Barbara, where crops can grow almost yearround, the distinct seasons further north force he fields stretch out for acres across the farm to rest during the winter. We use cover the flat land from Santa Rosa Road to crops, which nurture the dirt and keep fertilizer the river. from washing into the surrounding water table, When the hills around the Santa Ynez Valley and we also must plan for which vegetables like go brown, we start up the riding mower because the cold and which ones can’t survive it. the grass around the river bottoms grows fast and We let half the farm rest during the winter so thick. It’s an excellent addition to our compost. that the earth will be nutrient-rich when spring The bees find their way to each flower, pollicomes around again. nating the vegetables and fruits that grow almost Here at the farm we grow a variety of quicker than the eye can see. We are John Givens vegetable crops. We also have planted fruit Farms, your new neighbors. We have expanded trees, and we are home to free-range chickens, from our home base in Goleta and have spent the turkeys, quail and pigs. We want to foster our connection with the earth and with the animals last three years learning the benefits of organic farming in the Santa Ynez Valley. that depend on farm bounty. Contributing Writer

Photo contributed Make “cabbage rice” by chopping a head of cabbage into rice-sized pieces in a food processor.

As the weather starts to get cooler, cabbage becomes the star of the season. It’s easy to core and shred, and eating it boosts your vitamin C, vitamin K, and dietary fiber intake. Glucosolinates, a compound found in vegetables such as cabbages and mustard, also may

help prevent the spread of cancer. You can add crunch to any salad with some thinly sliced cabbage, or pickle it with vinegar, sugar and ginger and then serve it as a side dish. Have you ever heard of “cabbage rice”? You make it by putting a head of cabbage in a food processor, chopping it into rice-sized pieces. Your picky eater might not even complain if you season the cabbage rice, add peppers and avocado, and put it together in a fajita bowl. You can find a recipe at makingthymefor health.com/cabbage-rice-fajita-bowls. Carolyn Givens operates Something Good Organics and a farm stand on the corner of Santa Rosa Road. Email her at carolyn@something goodorganics.com.

December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 19

food~drink e Chefs hosting 8-night ‘Edible Hanukkah’ event Staff Report

wo local chefs are collaborating on an eight-day Hanukkah food festival titled “8 Days (an Edible Hanukkah Collaboration)” at their restaurants from Dec. 12-19. Drew Terp, chef and co-owner of PICO at The Los Alamos General Store, and Brooke Stockwell, executive chef at K’Syrah Catering & Events in Solvang, will launch the event on the evening of Tuesday, Dec. 12, the night of the first Hanukkah candle, at PICO, where it will continue through Dec. 17.

Recipe for a nutritious, delicious meal

On each night, Terp will “release” a new Hanukkah-themed dish on a special menu, with each dish hinting at the courses destined for the final night’s seated, eight-course dinner at K’Syrah. Diners at PICO will be able to view all six nights’ special dishes but will be able to order each one only as it is “lit” each night. Reservations are recommended, by going to www.losalamosgeneralstore.com/reserve. On Monday, Dec. 18, the second-to-last night of Hanukkah, the party will travel to K’Syrah Catering & Events, where a ticketed reception will showcase eight different Hanukkah-inspired

plates in a passed hors d’oeuvres format. A cash bar will also be available that evening, including creative craft cocktails entailing ingredients traditionally used in Jewish holiday celebrations. Tickets for the food portion of the evening on Dec. 18 are $25 through Dec. 13 and $30 from Dec. 14-18. The eight-day “foodie happening” will culminate with Tuesday, Dec. 19, the final candle night of Hanukkah. An eight-course seated dinner with wine pairings featuring some of the county’s Jewish winemakers will take place at K’Syrah Catering & Events. Tickets

HEALTHY FOODS

Julefest adds ‘gløgg contest’ to wine-beer walk Staff Report

Staff Report

reparing healthy meals doesn’t mean you have sacrifice flavor, or spend hours upon hours in the kitchen. All it takes is the right recipe.

Moroccan Salmon with Nectarine Couscous Contributed by Cottage Health

Ingredients 1 teaspoon paprika ¾ teaspoon ground cumin ½ teaspoon ground ginger ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper ½ teaspoon sea salt, divided 4 4-ounce boneless salmon fillets, skin on ½ cup whole-wheat couscous 2 green onions, chopped ½ yellow bell pepper, diced 1 ounce pine nuts, toasted ½ cup diced nectarine High-heat cooking oil (such as sunflower,

Photo contributed Learn how to cook this delicious, nutritious dish by following the recipe.

safflower, peanut, or grape seed oil), as needed In a small bowl, combine paprika, cumin, ginger, cardamom, black pepper and ¼ teaspoon salt. Sprinkle evenly on all sides of salmon, pressing mixture into flesh to adhere. Heat a grill pan on medium-high and lightly brush with cooking oil. Add salmon, skin side up, and cook for 2 minutes. Turn and cook, skin side down, until salmon is opaque throughout, about 5 more minutes. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, bring ¾ cup water to boil. Stir in couscous and remove from heat. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with fork and stir in onions, bell pepper, nuts, nectarine and remaining ¼

teaspoon salt. Divide salmon and couscous mixture among serving plates. Nutrition Information n Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet and 3/4 cup couscous mixture n Calories: 274 n Carbohydrate Content: 19 grams n Cholesterol Content: 62 milligrams n Fat Content: 10 grams n Fiber Content: 6 grams n Protein Content: 26 grams n Saturated Fat Content: 1 grams n Sodium Content: 313 milligrams n Sugar Content: 2 grams n Monounsaturated Fat Content: 4 grams

HEAL Summit addresses public health Staff Report

he HEAL Summit at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott in November featured speakers and presentations on access to healthy foods, workplace wellness and community planning initiatives throughout the state. Recognizing the important role that city and county governments play in creating communities where people can be healthy, many Central Coast cities and Santa Barbara

are $85 with the optional wine pairings for an additional $40 per person. Tickets for the cocktail reception and eightcourse “last candle” dinner can be purchased at 8-days-edible-hanukkah-collaboration. eventbrite.com. PICO is at 458 Bell St. in Los Alamos. K’Syrah Catering & Events is at 478 4th Place in Solvang. For more information, visit www.losalamosgeneralstore.com, www.kscateringandevents. com, or contact Anna Ferguson-Sparks, Stiletto Marketing, at 1-877-327-2656 or info@stiletto marketing.com.

County have passed Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) resolutions. The City Councils in Lompoc, Santa Barbara and Santa Maria have adopted the resolutions. So have the City Councils of Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, San Luis Obispo, Ventura and Moorpark. No single agency or sector can tackle issues of health, inactivity and obesity alone, so the Live Well Santa Barbara County Coalition hosted the HEAL Summit.

“We brought together experts to talk about food systems, workplace wellness and community planning, to share about the work that is being done across the state which impacts health of local residents,” said Van Do-Reynoso, director of the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department. To learn more about the Healthy Eating Active Living campaign and the Live Well Santa Barbara County Coalition, visit live wellsbc.org.

new event, a gløgg contest, will be added to the annual Solvang Julefest Wine & Beer Walk from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9-10. Popular in Denmark around the Christmas holidays, gløgg is loosely defined as mulled, spiced wine. The recipe usually contains red wine, orange rind, cinnamon, raisins, blanched almonds, cardamom, cloves and honey as well as aquavit, rum or brandy in varying combinations. “Many of the wine and beer makers also will be creating gløgg, a hot toddy for you to taste along with their regular offerings. Plus, you can be the judge and vote for your favorite Solvang gløgg with a ballot included in your passport,” said Special Program Manager Daniel Lahr at the Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau. “Bragging rights will be awarded after the votes are tabulated by Dec. 16.” Participating locations include Cali Love, Casa Cassara, Copenhagen Sausage Garden, Crosshatch Wine Tasting, Dascomb Cellars, Feliz Noche Cellars, Lions Peak Vineyards, Lucas & Lewellen, Lucky Dogg Winery, Olive House, Presidio Winery, Royal Oaks Winery, Solvang Brewing Company, Sort This Out Cellars, The Backroom at Valley Brewers, The Good Life, Toccata, and Wandering Dog Wine Bar. Tickets for the “Skål Stroll” wine and beer walk are $45 per person and include tastings at all locations, a passport and map, souvenir glass and a gløgg contest ballot. The event, for adults only, is expected to sell out; advance-sale tickets are available at www.solvangusa.com/things-to-do/solvang-julefest/#wine-beer-walk. Tickets can then be picked up at the Solvang Visitor Center, 1639 Copenhagen Drive, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on event days. Solvang Julefest events are presented by the Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau (SCVB) on behalf of the City of Solvang with sponsorship support from Visit Santa GLØGG CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

20 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

education

Dunn student signs baseball letter of intent Staff Report

unn baseball standout Gavin Haimovitz sat out much of his junior year with an injury, but that didn’t stop college coaches from noticing his potential even before he begins his final high school season this spring. Haimovitz recently signed a national letter of intent for a baseball scholarship at Cal State Bakersfield, a Western Athletic Conference Division 1 team that posted a winning season last year. “Gavin is one of the best all-around players and definitely one of the most consistent and

talented hitters I have had the privilege of coaching in over 25 years,” said Dunn’s head coach David Lawrence. “He is a leader both on and off the field, and he strives to be the best teammate at all times.” In the last two years at Dunn, the Oxnard native posted a .612 batting average with 75 hits and 50 RBIs in 35 games played, earning him first team honors in the 2016 All-CIF Southern Section Division 6. He primarily plays outfield but has also played pitcher, catcher and infield positions. Dunn School went 17-4 in 2017, earning a berth in the CIF Southern Section Division 6

postseason. The team lost in the first round to Santa Maria, despite Haimovitz’s solo homer. “ Against Carpinteria as a sophomore, I saw Gavin hit the ball as hard as I have ever seen in high school,” added Assistant Coach Josh Roberts. “He hit an absolute smash of a line drive to the opposite field for a home run.” “Defensively he covers a lot of ground in the outfield, and his arm strength elevates him to elite status nationwide,” Lawrence added. “I am very proud of his accomplishments so far, and I look forward to seeing him play Division 1 college baseball.”

All-valley school forum focuses on resilience in students Staff Report

ore than 200 teachers and staff members from eight Santa Ynez Valley school districts gathered at Santa Ynez High School in October for the eighth annual All Valley Schools Conference, with a focus on how to build resilience in children as an antidote to stress. To begin the day, the attendees viewed a documentary film, “Resilience: The Biology of Stress and the Science of Hope.” The film was followed by presentations and a question and answer session from a panel of experts who shared personal stories of resilience and solid strategies to reduce the negative impact of stress on physical and behavioral wellness. According to the film, individuals experience a wide range of stress, but one person’s stress may be another’s motivation. Reactions from observers of the stress of others may range from “Get over it” to “Suck it up,” and an individual’s answer may be to ignore or attempt to forget about it. While society tends to want us all to pull ourselves up and have the strength of character to handle it, not everyone is capable of handling stress in that way, especially children who experience stress that may have long-lasting effects. The documentary by James Redford is grounded in the 1980s research of Dr. Vincent Felitti and Dr. Robert Anda, who found a connection between adults experiencing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, lower life expectancy — and even increased odds of life-threatening heart disease and cancers — and their childhood experiences of stress and trauma. The doctors called the stress and trauma “adverse childhood experiences” (ACEs), and their ACEs studies over many years found a connection between symptoms of mental illness and physical diseases. The film emphasizes the need to build resilience in children and adults to combat the impact of trauma and stress, what many have termed the “public health crisis of the 21st century.” The three lessons of the “Resilience Model” are:

Photo contributed Dunn School student Gavin Haimovitz has signed a letter of intent to play baseball on scholarship at Cal State Bakersfield.

ASSEMBLY BILL 738

New law to create Native American curriculum Staff Report

Photo contributed More than 200 teachers and staff members from eight Santa Ynez Valley school districts gathered at Santa Ynez High School in October for the eighth annual All Valley Schools Conference.

First, a healthy life and future start at home. The most common ACEs occur because of negative child rearing and family conditions. Second, we need to stop dismissing or minimizing childhood trauma. Studies clearly link traumatic experiences and stresses in youth to physical and behavioral problems and lack of school success. Exposure to adult drug use, child abuse, domestic violence, divorce, hunger, and much more have lasting consequences. Rather than asking children to get over it, we should be searching out the underlying causation of behavior by asking what happened. Third, we need to support the development of resilience. We cannot prevent all exposure to stress or trauma but we can teach individuals the skills to be resilient when faced with stress and anxiety. Simply stated, we can improve a person’s ability to recover after something bad happens. In the Santa Ynez Valley, family and student support systems are in place. In a long term partnership with local school districts, People Helping People has staff and programs in place at Family Resource Centers on school campuses. Staff is trained to look beyond symptoms to identify stressors and ACEs. Basic needs, coun-

seling and family support services are easily accessible and available. Dr. Charity Dean, Santa Barbara County’s Public Health Officer and a panelist, said that she grew up in an extremely poor family and that she was able to “get by” due to the benefits of various safety net services. Further, one of her teachers reached out to her to with support that enabled her to overcome her childhood adversities and motivate her to continue her lifelong dream to become a doctor. School teachers, staff and administrators in attendance pledged to be more compassionate, understanding of conditions within families. Barbara Finch, the Children and Adult Network Director for the county Department of Social Services and one of the program’s coordinators, said that “prevention is a responsibility shared by educators, pediatricians, social workers, law enforcement, and faith-based organizations. We must join together to strengthen families to build resilience and buffer children from parental stress, family challenges and trauma.” For more information, email Arcelia Sencion, People Helping People, at arcelia@syvphp.org.

ov. Jerry Brown has signed Assembly Bill 738, authored by Assembly member Monique Limón, D-Santa Barbara, to develop a model curriculum in Native American studies for schools to integrate into lesson plans in grades 9 through 12. “AB 738 is about communities telling their own stories that can be passed on to future generations,” Limón said. “A school curriculum that draws upon and reflects the history of all students, especially underrepresented students, is critical in providing a positive, engaging and meaningful experience in the classroom.” The model curriculum will be designed with input from tribes to preserve Native American culture and history, and educate all students on its importance. Schools would be encouraged to offer a course in Native American studies based on the model curriculum. California has the largest Native American population in the United States and the third-largest American Indian student population. “This is a proud day for our tribe and Native Americans throughout the state of the California. The passage of this bill means that students will have an opportunity to learn about our history, our journey, our sovereignty and our culture through a curriculum that will be developed with vital input and oversight from Native American tribes,” said Tribal Chairman Kenneth Kahn of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. AB 738 will become law on Jan. 1.

December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 21

Skating School teaches people of all ages, skill levels By Emma Sutherland Contributing Writer

inter isn’t just coming, it’s here. Well, not really here, except in the state-of-the-art skating facility in Goleta known as Ice in Paradise. As the seasons change and temperatures cool down, so do some of our after-school activities. To find one of the coolest programs around, you don’t have to look farther then Ice in Paradise. Larry Bruyere, general manager at Ice in Paradise, talks about their skating program and what it offers during the school year. Question: What is the name of your after-school activity and what is its mission? Answer: The Ice in Paradise Learn to Skate Program, also called Skating School, is the introduction to ice skating activities beyond public skating sessions. The Learn to Skate/Skating School runs in eight-week sessions and meets every Tuesday at 4:45 p.m. A later start gives families enough time to arrive, get their skates on, dive into Skating School and arrive home in time for dinner. Our mission for the Learn to Skate Program is to introduce ice skating to an entire population who have largely never skated before, and provide everyone with the tools to learn how to skate — for enjoyment first, and then perhaps, to spur interest that develops into a rewarding lifelong hobby or sport. Q: What is the age range for children to take part in your program? A: The age range for our Learn to Skate/ Skating School Program is from 3 years old to adulthood. We have classes for all ages and abilities. Children will be placed in smaller groups that suit their age and skating level. Q: Describe the activities involved in your after school program. A: We teach the basics of skating, as well as figure skating and ice hockey skills at higher levels. Our program runs year-round for eight weeks each session, which is the perfect amount of time for kids to develop confidence and the skills needed to advance from Beginner Levels (Little Folk, Tots, Pre-Alpha 1, 2, and 3, Alpha, Beta, Adult Beginners and Hockey Skills) through Advanced Levels.

Photo by Frank Anderson Ice in Paradise’s year-round Learn to Skate program is geared toward children of all ages and abilities.

Q: What can parents expect their kids to gain from participating? A: By learning to skate, or skate better, children gain self-confidence and often discover an exciting new sport to participate and grow in, whether it be figure skating or ice hockey. Learning to skate has a lot of benefits from the life-skills point of view, as well as from the physical and artistic side. We’ve found that children can relate more with skating than other sports because of the musical element, which enhances their creative side. In the end, it’s really is up to them what they want to achieve. In addition to attending skating school classes on Tuesdays and Saturdays, the kids who are more competitive will often come to the rink daily during their free time. Q: Describe what makes your after school program unique and worthwhile. A: Learn to Skate school is unique for many students because ice skating is foreign to them. It is not unusual for a student to start a session as a virtual non-skater, and quickly develop into a competent skater with potential after eight weeks or even a few classes. Ice skating opens up a whole new opportu-

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nity that challenges not only students’ physical acumen, but also their brain and social skills. We have students who decide to pursue hockey, and they then benefit from being a part of a team sport by developing a new side of their being and sense of self. Q: When did the skating school first start and what was the inspiration for creating it? A: We opened our doors in October of 2015 and immediately started our Learn to Skate Program. We have offered this program twice a week since then. Our inspiration is to make Ice in Paradise a community center where people consistently come to ice skate, figure skate, play hockey, or observe from the comfortable mezzanine in our large rink or smaller studio rink. We are excited to have an award-winning, non-profit ice skating facility, designed and built to bring ice skating to anyone and everyone in our community. Q: Has any part of the program changed since it was created? A: We developed a great group of professional instructors, many who have been teaching Skating School for years. We have Skating

School pretty dialed in, so really the only thing that changes noticeably is the number of students in each session as the seasons change. Some kids skate for pleasure, while others skate to ultimately compete. Their goals determine the level and frequency of their participation. Q: Describe a favorite activity. A: Whether it’s swizzle, a loop, or an axel, kids really enjoy learning something totally new! Depending on a child’s age and ability level, their favorite activity will vary. Another thing kids love about our Learn to Skate Program is that we offer free ice skating during our Public Skating Session the day of their class. Many of our students come early to take full advantage of that and enjoy skating with their friends. Q: In what ways is your program educational? A: Ice in Paradise’s Learn to Skate Program is educational in many ways. Learning how to ice skate requires focus, listening skills, learning mechanics of one’s body (such as thrust and how the skate blade reacts to ice), experiencing improvement by way of practice, learning from a skilled and positive instructor and, of course, picking oneself up and skating on. It’s really fine-tuning your body awareness, which is key to using the right muscles and staying healthy. All of the muscles we use in skating breed healthy living for later on in life, even if you don’t keep at it. Q: Is there anything else parents should know when deciding whether to send their kids to your program? A: Yes, It’s important to recognize that ice-skating is a very safe and enjoyable sport. Our Learn to Skate Program is very well supervised and kids do not need any prior skating experience in order to participate. We do ask that parents come to Ice in Paradise to register their child for our Learn to Skate Program as we require a signature of a parent or guardian to participate. For more information about Ice in Paradise’s Learn to Skate program, visit iceinparadise. org/skating-school or call (805) 879-1550. This article first appeared on Noozhawk on Sept. 16.

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22 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

TIME FOR OUR CHILDREN Winter and spring Create space for Hancock class phone-free conversations schedules online By Susan Salcido

tudents at Hancock College are now able to register for both winter and spring 2018 classes, as the schedules of winter and spring classes are now live on the college’s website, www.hancockcollege. edu. Winter session begins the week of Dec. 18. The college will offer more than 30 classes that run five weeks or less. Nearly all of the options are online classes that meet GE requirements for Hancock and four-year universities, including those in the California State University and University of California systems. Topics range from accounting

File photo Students at Hancock College are now able to register for both winter and spring 2018 classes

to Excel, anthropology, film, history and psychology, among many others. Spring classes begin the week of Jan. 22. The college will offer more than 1,200 classes during the spring semester, including 200 online and nearly 100 at the Lompoc Valley Center. Free print copies of the winter and spring 2018 Schedule at a Glance are available at all college locations and local public libraries, while supplies last. However, all students should use the online Class Search for the most up-to-date information and details. For information about financial aid, call 805- 922-6966, ext. 3200 or go to www. hancockcollege.edu and click Financial Aid in the Student Services drop-down box. For credit-class registration information, call Admissions & Records at 805-9226966, ext. 3248.

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author Victoria Prooday’s findings confirm an alarming increase in rates of children’s mental health issues as well. his year marked 10 years since According to both researchers, however, Steve Jobs and Apple introduced parents can take solace in knowing that the iPhone. conscious efforts can combat these trends. This one device has transformed how Both Twenge and Prooday offer suggeswe obtain information, how we tions to help children and adoleslearn, and how we interact with cents improve their physical and others. As many have noted, mental well-being, and to help smartphone users have more promote positive, healthy family computer processing power in dynamics. their pocket than NASA computSuggestions include having ers did during the Apollo mission children spend plenty of time to the moon. outdoors: biking, hiking, going While the upsides to smartto the beach, or just simply phones are well known, some playing. Fortunately, in beautiresearchers are now beginning to ful Santa Barbara County, the Susan Salcido count the societal costs of these outdoor options are many. devices, particularly as they perWhen families turn off their tain to children. One such researcher, Dr. devices, everyone can become emotionally Jean Twenge, professor of psychology at available to connect. Families can prioriSan Diego State University, wrote a book tize having a daily, technology-free family titled “iGen,” which compiles sobering dinner. statistics on changes to children’s habits Familial bonds can truly have life-changand mental health over the last 10 years. ing impacts. These bonds are invariably The book has generated important discusstrengthened at home, where everyone can sions among parents, educators and mental be attentive and engaged. Dinner is an opporhealth professionals. tune time because families often congregate Twenge’s studies indicate that more and can engage in phone-free conversations. children today are feeling “sad, hopeless, When we turn off our phones, we send useless … that they can’t do anything powerful messages about how we value right.” Her studies indicate a 50 percent what is happening in each other’s lives, increase in a clinical level of depression that we are concerned about anyone’s between 2011-15, along with higher rates feelings of loneliness, and that we recognize the need for improved self-confidence. of feeling lonely or left out. Twenge’s contention is that these marked Through those efforts, we build authentic relationships with one another, which are increases in alarming warning signs coinfoundational to emotional health. cide almost perfectly with smartphones’ In so doing, we benefit our children and 50 percent market saturation rate among adolescents in 2011-12. She posits that we we help ourselves as parents — and as a society. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth are experiencing the world’s worst mental the effort for all involved to put down the health crisis in decades. phone and create the space for important Twenge isn’t alone in noting these trouconnecting conversations. bling trends. Occupational therapist and Santa Barbara County Superintendent of Schools

Staff Report

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December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 23

SB Museum of Natural History open during ‘revitalization’ By Luke Swetland

easier for our community to experience the wonderful programs and exhibits we have here. Many of us have relatives visiting from ou may have heard that we’re out of town this time of year, and finding a currently undergoing significant way to entertain a large group can often be renovations, something we like to overwhelming and expensive. Hopefully this call “revitalization” here at the Santa Barbara gift to the community will give more people Museum of Natural History. But you can rest the opportunity to learn, engage, and explore at assured the museum is open and vibrant during our Mission Creek campus. this exciting time – and most importantly, the During our revitalization, the following museum is still safe for your children through- halls and experiences are open to visitors: out the renovation process. Mineral & Gem Gallery, Chumash IndiAs we approach the holiday season and start an Hall, Geology and Paleontology Hall, to reflect on 2017, we stop to think about the Museum Library, Astronomy Center and things that make our lives so special. For the Planetarium, Marine Hall, Fleischmann team here at the museum, one of the things Auditorium, and Maximus Art Gallery. that makes us feel like we’re on the right track We also have a number of fascinating is the joy we see in our visitors every day exhibits and special areas that we know we come to work. We’re incredibly lucky to nature enthusiasts of all ages will love, inhave the opportunity to interact with so many cluding the Curiosity Lab, Bug Boot Camp, people who call Santa Barbara home, and after our BaseCamp outdoor nature engagement celebrating our centennial last year, we hope area, Eyes in the Sky featuring local birds of to continue providing the community with an prey, and our new Wild Things exhibit in the exciting, natural place to play and learn for the Maximus Art Gallery. next 100 years and beyond. And of course, our Sea Center on Stearns To make it easier for more local families Wharf is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 to spend some time with us at the museum, p.m. at the normal admission price. we are reducing our prices this holiday For more information about all of the exseason. As a special holiday gift to the com- citing things happening at the museum, and munity, the museum is offering 50 percent for the full schedule of special events, visit off admission and free planetarium shows our website at www.sbnature.org or give us (normally $4) until Dec. 31. a call at 805-682-4711. The holiday season is a time when friends We hope to see you and your family this and family gather, and we want to make it holiday season. Natural History Museum

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Photo contributed The SYVUHS Class of 1967 held its 50th reunion in October.

Class of ’67 donates to Aquatics Foundation Staff Report

bout 40 classmates and spouses celebrated when the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School class of 1967 held its 50th class reunion in late October. The weekend included cocktails and dinner at the home of Tone Jensen Anderson on Friday night, catered Mexican dinner with drinks and story telling Saturday night at the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Society, and an aebleskiver breakfast prepared Sunday morning by Carol Paaske. Solvang Brewing Co. and Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. provided beer for the weekend because of classmate Ruth Iverson Jackson and her family affiliations. The class also donated $1,652 to the Aquatics Foundation at the high school.

Classmates attended from as far away as Montana, Louisiana and Iowa, and several attended for the first time since graduating in 1967. Linda Johansen asked her classmates to donate the remaining balance raised by the event to the Aquatics Foundation in support of the new Aquatics Complex at the high school, which will be available to everyone in the Valley. “We hope that our generous donation will inspire others to do the same. The class also donated all leftover wine from the events to the residents at the Atterdag Village of Solvang,” Johansen said. The Reunion Committee that worked throughout the year consisted of Tone Jensen Anderson, Corine Douglas Cerny, Carolyn Hanly, Ruth Iversen Jackson, Linda Nielsen Johansen, Margee Reeves Lenard, Carol Paaske and Birgitte Larsen Pedersen.

Retirement

At Atterdag Village of Solvang we take care of the cooking and cleaning so you can enjoy your retirement. We offer many life enriching activities, like writing classes, lectures, painting and crafts, along with a wide variety of social gatherings and outings just for fun! Our wellness program is designed to improve vitality and help you achieve your itness goals. Our on-site Wellness Director can get you started in our state-of-the-art itness center or introduce you to our classes for Strength and Balance, Yo Yoga, Tai Chi, and Water Aerobics. Call to learn more about what makes Atterdag Village a wonderful place to live.

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24 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

Help available for health insurance enrollment Staff Report

he Santa Barbara County Public Health Department is offering to help people enroll in affordable health insurance options. Certified application counselors will be available to assist with Covered California health plan enrollments and renewals throughout the open enrollment period, which extends through Jan. 31. Medi-Cal enrollment services are available yearround. “We are pleased to offer free assistance throughout the county and want to make it easy to enroll in Covered California or Medi-Cal. Despite recent reports in the media, financial assistance is still available to help individuals pay for their health insurance premiums,” said Public Health Director Van Do-Reynoso. Since January 2014, the Public Health Department has helped more than 21,000 people and enrolled more than 8,500 into Medi-Cal or Covered California. In the new open enrollment period, which started Nov. 1, the department is building on this momentum with another countywide

outreach campaign. The Public Health Department has made it simple to apply. Community members may make an appointment Monday through Friday and bring essential documentation related to residency and income. Individuals do not have to be current patients and all assistance is provided free of charge in English and Spanish. To learn more, applicants are encouraged to contact their local health care center at these addresses or phone numbers: n Lompoc Health Care Center, 805-737-6400, 301 North R St. n Carpinteria Health Care Center, 805-560-1050, 931 Walnut Ave. n Santa Maria Health Care Center, 805-346-7230, 2115 S. Centerpointe Parkway n Franklin Health Care Center, 805-568-2099, 1136 E. Montecito Street, Santa Barbara n Santa Barbara Health Care Center, 805-681-5488, 345 Camino Del Remedio For more information, contact the department’s Benefits and Referral Center at 805-681-5393.

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Photo contributed Third District Supervisor Joan Hartmann, left to right, joins Dr. Niki Sandoval and commissioners Karen Steinwachs and Tracy Beard during the presentation of a Commission for Women Service Award in November.

County commission honors Chumash Education Dept. Staff Report

he Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians’ Education Department was honored Nov. 7 with a service award from the Santa Barbara County Commission for Women during a County Board of Supervisors meeting. The resolution highlighted the Chumash Education Department’s mission to “embrace children and families from birth through adulthood by supporting kindergarten readiness, educational attainment and career transitions.” Commissioners Tracy Beard and Karen Steinwachs and 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann presented the award to the tribe’s education director, Dr. Niki Sandoval. “In partnership with local teachers, administrators, and community-based organizations, we are fostering learning environments where young women can see themselves as leaders,” said Sandoval, who is also a member of the State Board of Education. “Education and life-long learning, grounded in a strong sense

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of cultural identity and commitment to serving others, changes lives in profound ways.” Other recipients of the annual Commission for Women Service Awards were Future Leaders of America in the 1st District, AHA! in the 2nd District), Santa Maria High School’s Sara Araujo in the 4th District), and SBC Promotores Network in the 5th District. The Commission for Women Service Awards are presented annually to some of “the many outstanding organizations that help shape Santa Barbara County, particularly those who advocate for women in need,” according to the commission. The recipients demonstrate their commitment and service to the Santa Barbara community 365 days of the year, the commission said, and it “takes pride in shining the spotlight on them.” “We are so grateful to members of the Santa Barbara County Commission for Women,” Sandoval said. “By shining a light on the struggles and the successes women experience, we are better preparing tomorrow’s leaders.”

3 4 64

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December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 25

Local woman receives national DAR award

GIFTS FOR THE MILITARY

Staff Report

ocal resident Terryl “Terry” Bunn has been recognized with a community service award from the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolu-tion. The Santa Ynez Valley chapter Refugio del Cielo of DAR sponsored her nomination for the award, which was established in 1995 to recognize worthy individuals and organizations for outstanding voluntary achievements. Bunn has been a volunteer advocate with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Santa Barbara since 2003. Known by CASA as the “baby expert,” Bunn does not shy away from tough assignments. Her knowledge about child development and the impact of trauma on children has been a tremendous benefit to both the children she is an advocate for, but also to CASA. Bunn has conducted training about the effects of trauma on children, especially the youngest ones. “Terry has one of the biggest hearts we’ve seen. ... Terry always goes above and beyond the call of duty and spends

Photo contributed Youth and Government delegates at Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA are collecting supplies to create care packages for U.S. soldiers overseas.

YMCA youth collecting supplies for care packages cookies, chips, crackers and sweetened drink mixes. he high school Youth and Govern“The social initiative is important to ment delegates at Stuart C. Gildred our delegation because it makes us more Family YMCA are on a mission to aware of things happening outside of our collect supplies to create care packages for community. There are people in need, U.S. soldiers overseas. and if we have the capacity to help them, Every year the Youth and Government we should. It also shows that youth are of California group devises a social initia- engaged in our communities, and together tive for YMCA delegations across the they can make a difference,” said John state as part of its #BeTheChange moveCrowell, program director for the local ment. Last year, the delegations collected YMCA. enough supplies to assemble 648 indiYouth and Government is a cause-driven vidual care packages for overseas program that strives to engage high school military troops and homeless veterans youth in a hands-on experience that eduin Fresno. This year they aim to gather cates them on government while fostering enough supplies to assemble 1,000 care their ideas, leadership skills, character and packages. critical thinking. For more information, The Stuart C. Gildred delegation is asemail Crowell at John.Crowell@ciymca. signed to collect snacks and treats such org or Scott Arellano at scott.Arellano@ as individually wrapped hard candy, ciymca.org. chewing and bubble gum, mints, breath For more information about the local strips, individually wrapped fruit snacks, YMCA, visit www.ciymca.org/stuart individually packaged nuts, seeds, pretzels, gildred/ or call 805-686-2037. Staff Report

Our River Course 25th Anniversary is the Gift that keeps Giving

25th Anniversary

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Photo contributed Santa Ynez Valley resident Terryl Bunn has been honored for community service by the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution.

many hours each month visiting her children to make sure that their needs are being met. The CASA organization has declared her a blessing to the organization and to the children that she serves,” her DAR co-members wrote in the nomination.

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26 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

CRIME

YOUR GOVERNMENT Here is contact and meeting information for local, state and federal officials.

CITIES Buellton City Council • www.cityofbuellton.com Meets at 6 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month at 140 W. Highway 246 in Buellton Mayor Holly Sierra Mayor Pro-tem Ed Andrisek David King Art Mercado Foster Reif Solvang City Council • www.cityofsolvang.com Meets at 6:30 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at 1644 Oak St. Mayor Jim Richardson, jimr@cityofsolvang.com Pro-tem Mayor Ryan Toussaint, toussaint.ryan@ cityofsolvang.com Karen Waite, karenw@cityofsolvang.com Joan Jamieson, joan.jamieson@cityofsolvang.com Neill Zimmerman, neillz@cityofsolvang.com

SPECIAL DISTRICTS Santa Ynez Community Services District • www.sycsd. com Board meets at 5:30 p.m. on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 1070 Faraday Street in Santa Ynez. David Higgins Karen Jones Carl Maler Frank Mueller David Seymour

Santa Ynez River Water Conservation District, ID1 www.syrwd.org 3622 Sagunto Street, Santa Ynez, 93460; 805-6886015 Board meets at 3 p.m. on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 1070 Faraday St. in Santa Ynez Harlan Burchardi Michael Burchardi Jeff Clay Brad Joos Kevin Walsh

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY Board of Supervisors • www.countyofsb.org The board meets most Tuesdays, alternating between 105 East Anapamu St. in Santa Barbara and 511 E. Lakeside Parkway in Santa Maria. 1st District: Das Williams, Vice Chair dwilliams@countyofsb.org; 805-568-2186 2nd District: Janet Wolf jwolf@countyofsb.org; 805-568-2191 3rd District :Joan Hartmann, Chair jhartmann@countyofsb.org; 805-568-2192; Solvang office:805-686-5095 4th District: Peter Adam peter.adam@countyofsb.org; Lompoc: 805-737-7700; Santa Maria: 805-346-8407 5th District: Steve Lavagnino steve.lavagnino@countyofsb.org; 805-346-8400

CALIFORNIA Assembly District 35 Assemblyman Jordan Cunningham (R)

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UNITED STATES Rep. Salud Carbajal (D – District 23) 360 S. Hope Ave., Suite C-301, Santa Barbara, CA 93105; (805) 730-1710 1110 Longworth Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515; 202-255-3601 • www.carbajal.house.gov Sen. Kamala Harris (D) 112 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510; 202-224-3553 • http://harris.senate.gov Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D) 331 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510; 202-224-3841 • www.feinstein.senate.gov President Donald J. Trump (R) The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500; 202-456-1111; 202-456-1414 www.whitehouse.gov

Staff Report

he Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Rural Crime Enforcement Unit responded to several crimes in its latest reporting period, which caused more than $10,000 in loss and damages to farms and ranches from Winchester Canyon to Vandenberg Air Force Base and Los Alamos. In the Los Alamos area, about $200 in damages was done to irrigation equipment on a remote part of the Carrari Ranch, and 20 pallets were stolen from a ranch in the 1900 block of Highway 1. The Sudden Ranch near Jalama Beach and Vandenberg Air Force Base was vandalized by graffiti, causing about $9,000 in damages. Sheriff’s officials said they suspect a known graffiti crew from Southern California. A construction site for a vineyard along Santa Rosa Road and Highway 1 was burglarized, and video surveillance footage showed two suspects entering the yard. However, no property was stolen because the owners had taken preventative measures. In Winchester Canyon near Goleta, about $240 worth of persimmons were stolen.

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December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 27

AGIN’S CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 drink and it becomes a fire danger,” Wade Agin said. The family sells many varieties of trees, including noble, grand, Douglas, Nordmann and Fraser firs.

The Agins have two tree sales lots in the valley, one at Edison and Highway 246 in Santa Ynez and the other at Industrial Way and Highway 246 in Buellton. They are open daily from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. and will be open until they sell their last trees.

Wine Enthusiast honors Solomon Hills chardonnay Staff Report

Stay safe for the holidays T

he Santa Barbara County Fire Department offers the following suggestions to keep your Christmas safe: n When purchasing a live tree, look for signs of freshness. A fresh tree is green, the needles will be difficult to pull from branches, and a minimum number of needles should fall off. n To keep your tree fresh, cut off about two inches of the trunk to expose fresh wood for better water absorption and check the water level daily. Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times. n When placing your tree in your home, make sure it is kept away from heat sources like fireplaces or heater vents. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame or sparks. n Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit. n Check your lights before placing

them on your tree. Look for worn or frayed wires and broken bulbs. n When you leave your home or go to sleep at night, turn off the lights on the tree. n Dispose of your tree properly. Never burn branches or needles in a fireplace or woodstove. Discard a dry tree promptly. The best way to dispose of it is to take it to a recycling center or have it hauled away by a community curbside pick-up service. n Check your smoke detectors to make sure they are working properly.

he 2015 Solomon Hills chardonnay has been named a Top 100 Cellar Selection of 2017 by Wine Enthusiast magazine. More than 22,000 wines were reviewed before the magazine created its exclusive list of 100 wines, “each chosen for its prestige, ageablity and immense quality,” according to the magazine. “Our estate wines continue to be a beacon of quality, not only representing the vineyard of Bien Nacido and Solomon Hills by name, but also the reason we are considered one of the Grand Cru vineyards of California,” said Master Sommelier Will Costello, estates ambassador for Bien Nacido and Solomon Hills Estate Wines. Production of the 2015 Solomon Hills Chardonnay was extremely limited, with only 147 cases produced. The wine is scheduled to be released this fall and will be available for purchase in the tasting room at 2963 Grand Ave., Suite B, in Los Olivos. Solomon Hills Estate, in the Santa Maria Valley appellation, is owned by the Miller family, who are fifth-generation farmers. For more information visit www.biennacidoestate.com.

Photo contributed The 2015 Solomon Hills Chardonnay has been named a Top 100 Cellar Selection of 2017 by Wine Enthusiast magazine.

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Photos contributed Songs and dancers spinning out of the mists and to the familiar Silent Night, Little Drummer Boy and Carol of the Bells, are just the beginning of this great Irish night.

‘An Irish Christmas’ extravaganza coming to Granada Staff Report

“A

n Irish Christmas” by Kerry Irish Productions is coming to Santa Barbara for the first time, playing at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Granada Theatre. The show takes the audience on a journey through the Emerald Isle with superb dancing, singing and Irish traditional music. An authentic look at Irish Christmas traditions, it was taped by PBS to air during the holidays several years ago. “An Irish Christmas” features an award-winning cast of dazzling Irish dancers led by special guests who are world champions: Scott Doherty (Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, Rockin’ Road to Dublin), Tyler Schwartz (Magic of the Dance, Gaelforce Dance, Celtic Fyre), and Connor Reider (Celtic Fyre). The are complemented by the members of the Kerry Dance Troupe, sensational Irish

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musicians from the Kerry Trad Orchestra, and a host of actors and singers. “It is extraordinary how closely connected we are to our past. We are a product of so much that came before us, and our traditions are part of that inheritance,” said Margaret O’Carroll, who devised, directed and produced the show. The audience will see such customs as the butter-making dance, chasing the wren on St. Stephen’s Day, and drawing down the half door. “There is a value to these traditions,” she continued. “We are craftsmen and craftswomen who carry the stories to the next generation through every-day events such as storytelling, song, music, dance and our daily rituals. Folk theater is the protector, the interpreter, the narrator, the pulse, the heartbeat of these traditions.” The Granada Theatre is at 1214 State St. Tickets range from $28 to $88, available at www.granadasb.org or by calling the box office at (805) 899-2222.

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December 5 - 18, 2017 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 29

Reindeer visiting SB Zoo for holiday season Staff Report

wo male reindeer, an adult named Holiday and a first-year calf named Lightning, will take up residence on the lawn opposite the Cats of Africa exhibit for holiday viewing at the Santa Barbara Zoo. “This will be the first time many local residents have ever seen a reindeer,” zoo CEO Rich Block said. “The zoo is proud to present these two to the community this holiday season. Both of them have antlers, though Holiday’s are a bit puny compared to Lightning’s huge display. Kids are going to love them, even if they don’t really fly.” Winter-themed and holiday-related activities take place throughout the season, and Santa will be available for gift requests and photos on Wednesdays through Sundays until Christmas Eve. The zoo is open with the special hours of 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. It is open on regular hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. “I heard a rumor that Donner and Blitzen are retiring, and these two are the up-andcomers for their flying jobs,” joked Block. “We’re their warm-weather ‘hoof camp’ due to our great climate. They have big harnesses to fill, and we’re here to support them with great nutrition, a highly trained keeper staff, a full-time vet, and ocean views from their temporary paddock across from the lions. Our male lion Chadwick has agreed to an 8 p.m. roaring curfew so the reindeer can get their beauty sleep.”

ING T S I WL E N

LE B A IL AVA

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Photo contributed Do you know the difference between a caribou and a reindeer?

Lightning and Holiday allow the zoo to help answer questions from local children such as: Do reindeer really exist? What’s the difference between a caribou and a reindeer? Do both male and female reindeer get antlers? What’s the difference between antlers and horns? How big are

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sheep, goats, horses, deer, and reindeer. Many of the animals have been rescued or rehabilitated. For more information about Windswept Ranch, visit www.capettingzoo.com. For more information about the Santa Barbara Zoo, visit www.sbzoo.org.

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30 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

events

upcoming EVENTS ROUNDUP

Country star Clint Black returning to Chumash Singer, songwriter, musician, record producer and actor Clint Black is returning to the Chumash Casino’s Samala Showroom at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15. Born in Long Branch, N.J., Black grew up in a musical household. He taught himself to play the harmonica before he was 13 and learned to play guitar by the time he was 15. He joined his brothers in a small band that played at Clint Black weekend gatherings for neighbors. His professional career began in the early 1980s when he supported himself by singing at lounges as a solo singer and guitarist. In the late ’80s he signed with RCA and his first album, “Killing Time,” became a critical and commercial success. He won the Country Music Association’s Horizon Award for best newcomer in 1989, and five of the singles from his debut album reached No. 1 on the country music charts. Over the next two decades, Black released more than a dozen studio albums. He topped the charts with many of his single releases, including “Loving Blind,” “A Better Man,” “Like the Rain” and “When I Said I Do.” He has won eight prestigious awards from the Academy of Country Music, the American Music Awards and the Country Music Association. Having sold more than 20 million albums, Black was inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame, where he joined the ranks of Willie Nelson, Waylon

Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, George Jones and many others. Tickets for the show are $45, $55 and $65, available at the casino and at www. chumashcasino.com.

Nick Swardson bringing comedy to casino Dec. 8 Nick Swardson, an actor, comedian, screenwriter and producer, is bringing his stand-up comedy to the Chumash Casino’s Samala Showroom at 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 8. Swardson began acting and performing improv comedy at the age of 16 in Minneapolis. In 1996, he was selected to perform at the U.S. Comedy Arts Festival. In 2003, he cowrote the screenplay Nick Swardson for “Malibu’s Most Wanted” and took on the recurring role of Terry Bernadino on the Comedy Central series “Reno 911!” His success led to a working relationship and friendship with comedian, actor and writer Adam Sandler. For their first collaboration, they co-wrote and co-produced “Grandma’s Boy” in 2006. Swardson premiered his sketch comedy show “Nick Swardson’s Pretend Time” on Comedy Central in 2010. In 2011, Swardson co-wrote, co-produced and starred in the film “Bucky Larson: Born to Be a Star,” and starred with Jesse Eisenberg, Danny McBride and Aziz Ansari in the film “30 Minutes or Less.” Tickets for the show are $35, $45 and $55, available at the casino or at www. chumashcasino.com.

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were looking for new artists and they contacted me to apply,” Alvarez said. He started by painting backdrops and pictorial signs at Disneyland. “You know how the song ‘It’s a Small World’ gets stuck in your head for awhile after going on the ride? Well it’s engrained into my deepest depths as I spent so much time in that attraction, painting Art Alvarez and repainting. I had to have the staff shut off the music when I worked, but it didn’t stop playing in my head,” he laughed. Even on his lunch break from painting, Alvarez loved drawing and doing his own work. When an executive from Disney’s Imagineering division saw him doing that, Alvarez was invited to learn illustration. He ended up interviewing for an artist position on the upcoming film at the time, “Pocahontas.” “I had to show off my portfolio before this room full of suits and Disney artists. I was tested to make illustrations in three

days, and over the course of two weeks I did 10 illustrations,” Alvarez said. On the last day of his interview he was stuck in traffic and ended up being 20 minutes late. When he finally found the room, he felt as if his own life was a movie. “It was that quintessential dark room that was full of people in suits looking at my illustrations. I looked at my boss and she just gave me this nod … I knew I had gotten the job, and I still get emotional telling this story,” he said. Alvarez never went to school for art, but ended up being a major artist for Disney who did main characters and posters while working there for 22 years. He has now returned to doing illustrations for the automotive industry, as his first passion has always been hot rods and classic cars. “I think back to all my experiences and feel very lucky to have been at the right place and time, especially in that classroom with Mrs. Hasley where she was lecturing me, because she helped me figure out I wanted to be an artist,” he said. Alvarez founded Big ’n’ Rigged Apparel, which does custom products for car shows, events and businesses, and he still does some work for Disney from time to time. You can follow his work on Facebook.

PRCA rodeo judge, so she meets up with him at rodeo events to spend time together. Her daughhusband, John Barlogio, married right out of high ters still live in the area, and Branquinho said school and started an appliance business in Santa she’s lucky to have family close by. Maria. The Santa Barbara County Cattlewomen are “I received special training on how to use the a chapter of the statewide California Cattlemicrowave and even returned to AHC to teach a women, which promotes beef and educates the course in microwave cooking,” Branquinho said. public about it, from its nutritional benefits to They had three children together — Terry, the uses of its byproducts. John and Tina — and they had their children The Cattlewomen raise money throughout the in the saddle even before they could walk. year to be given to agricultural organizations that Her children are still involved with agricul- have a beef component, such as Future Farmers ture, as are her grandchildren, which Branof America and 4-H. They also give scholarships quinho is most proud of. for students looking to further their education in Her son is a brand inspector in Montana and a agriculture.

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FRIDAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 the story along while delivering the emotional impact that only music can. You might even be humming a tune on the way to the car, but you will have forgotten it by the time you get home. This is a solid production with plenty to amuse young and old alike. You’ll give the

HERO CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 the community’s youth,” said Staff Sgt. Shane Phipps. Super Hero Fitness Day was made possible by the Santa Ynez Valley Star and an educational partnership agreement with Vandenberg Air Force Base. At 705 S. McClelland St., the Discovery

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Ynez Valley, Waste Management and other area businesses. All Solvang Julefest events are open to the public with free admission (excluding Julefest Holiday Wine & Beer

cast a standing ovation because they were just so fun to watch. If you’re looking for a unique Christmas present, give the experience of going to see a live show at PCPA this winter. Overall, I would give it 3.5 out of 5 stars. “Freaky Friday” runs through Dec. 23 at Marian Theatre in Santa Maria. For show times and tickets, log onto www.pcpa.org. Museum is fun for all ages, with 13,000 square feet of “please touch” exhibits, weekly programs and special events that explore ourselves, our valley, our world and beyond. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. For more information, visit smvdiscovery museum.org. Skål Stroll). For more detailed information about all events, please visit www.SolvangUSA.com/ julefest/ or call the Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau at 1-800-468-6765 or 805688-6144.

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Events pages sponsored by To submit an event for publication, email the information to news@santaynezvalleystar. com. To see more information online, go to www.visitsyvcom or www.santaynezvalley star.com.

December 7

Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach Excursion – 8:30 a.m. Pick up at Solvang Veterans Hall, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang. Behind the scenes tour and free time for lunch. Lunch not provided. $71/person. Required reservations may be booked at www. buelltonrec.com.

December 8

Shop, Mingle and Jingle – Dec. 8-10 and 15-17. Select shops, restaurants and tasting rooms will be offering discounts. Guests will be able to enjoy special events and entertainment while they shop. Visit www. solvangusa.com.

Free. Visit www.solvangusa.com/events/solvang- Caroling by Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Arthritis Class - 10:15 a.m.; Poker - 1 p.m. at the Solvang julefest- nativity-pageant/. Church – 5-7 p.m. Solvang Park. Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-1086. Alexander Toy Drive - 5:30-9 p.m. 410 Dogwood Brain Injury Survivors of Santa Ynez Valley Drive, Buellton. Benefiting Old Mission Santa Inez. 12-2 p.m. Bethania Lutheran Church, 603 Atterdag The Kindness Concert – 4:30-7:30 p.m. Standing thealexanderfamily3@comcast.net Road, Solvang. Jodi House Brain Injury Support Center Sun Wines, 92 2nd St., Buellton. Eleven local student is offering a support group for care-givers and brain finalists will be singing to benefit Strength Behind injury survivors. Visit www.jodihouse.org. Stars, a non-profit committed to creating kinder Holiday Celebration Dinner - hosted by the schools. Alisal Ranch Course Men’s and Ladies Clubs. 5:30Danish Sisterhood Dinner – 5:30-8:30 p.m. Bethania 8 p.m. Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, 1054 Alisal Pilates - 10:00 a.m. at the Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Lutheran Church, 603 Atterdag Road, Solvang. Road, Solvang. Dine and enjoy holiday music while Mission Drive. Call 688-1086. For more information, e-mail floradanica177@gmail. supporting “Golf Beats Cancer.” Tickets start at $150/ com. person. To R.S.V.P., e-mail reeembley@gmail.com or Bingo - 1 p.m. at the Buellton Senior Center, West Hwy. call 686-5942. 246, Buellton. Call 688-4571.

December 10

December 17

Every Friday

December 11

December 18

Diabetes Management Options – 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital, 2050 Viborg Road, Allan Hancock College – Winter classes begin. For Solvang. Free. For information, call 694-2351. registration information visit www.hancockcollege.edu/ winter. Christmas Lights and Sights Tour – Dec. 11 and 12. 6-7:15 p.m. and 7:30-8:45 p.m. Depart Solvang Winter Break Camps Begin – 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. A field How to Read Nutritional Labels Seminar – 12-1 Veteran’s Hall, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang. $13/ trip every day. $70/1 day, $170/3 days, $190/5 days. Call p.m. Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital, 2050 Viborg person. For tickets call 688-7529. 688-1086 or visit www.buelltonrec.com. Road, Solvang. Free. For information, call 694-2351. Solvang City Council Meeting – 6:30 p.m. City Hall, Diabetes Diagnosis? – 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Santa Ynez Valley Founding Day Remembrance La Purisima 1644 Oak St., Solvang. Cottage Hospital, 2050 Viborg Road, Solvang. Free. For Mission – Mass-12 p.m.; Candlelight and Music-7 p.m. information, call 694-2351. La Purisima Mission State Historic Park, 2295 Purisima Road, Lompoc. 8 Days, an Edible Hanukkah Collaboration – Los Alamos Christmas Tree Lighting – 6 p.m. at PICO’s Chef Drew Terp and Chef Brooke Stockwell Weight Room - 6-8 a.m. and 1:30-8 p.m. Buellton Rec Ferrini Park, Corner of Bell and Centennial Streets, Los of K’Syrah Catering and Events offer contemporary Center, 301 2nd St., Buellton. $3. Call 688-1086. alamos. 805-344-3500. twists on Traditional Jewish foods over the course of 8 days at The Los Alamos General Store, 458 Bell Senior T’ai Chi - 9:15 a.m.; Arthritis Class - 10:15 Nick Swardson Performance - 8 p.m. Chumash St., Los Alamos. Dec. 18-Ticketed reception with hors a.m.; Creative Coloring – 1 p.m. every other Monday; Casino Resort, 3400 E. Hwy-246, Santa Ynez. Ages 21 d’oeuvres and cash bar. $30/person.; Dec. 19-8 course Senior Issues – 1 p.m. every other Monday at the and up. Tickets start at $35. Visit www.chumashcasino. finale dinner. $85/person, optional wine pairing for Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688com. additional $40/person. 1086.

December 12

December 9

December 15

Photos with Santa – Dec. 9 and 16. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Healthy Holiday Treats. Really! – Santa Ynez Valley Solvang Park. Cottage Hospital, 2050 Viborg Road, Solvang. Free. For information, call 694-2351. Skål Stroll – Dec. 9 and 10. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. – Dec. 9 and 10. Over 15 Wine and Beer tasting rooms offering Clint Black Performance - 8 p.m. Chumash Casino tastings. $45/person for a 2-day pass. Ages 21 and up. Resort, 3400 E. Hwy-246, Santa Ynez. Ages 21 and up. Buy tickets at www.eventbrite.com/e/2017-solvang- Tickets start at $45. Visit www.chumashcasino.com. julefest-holiday-wine-beer-walk.

December 16

2nd Saturday Artisans – 12-5 p.m. Grange Hall, 2374 Alamo Pintado Rd., Los Olivos. Original handmade Wreath Making Class – 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. works of art for show and sale. For more information, Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, 151 Sycamore contact info@santaynezvalleyarts.org. Drive, Buellton. $30/adult, $5/child. Visit www. santaynezvalleybotanicgarden.org. Sip and Shop – 3-7 p.m. Fess Parker Wine Country Inn, 2860 Grande Ave., Los Olivos. The Boutique and SYV Master Chorale Festival of Carols – 16thFirestone Sisters host and exclusive shopping event. 7:30 p.m.; 17th-3 p.m. Solvang Veteran’s Hall, 1745 For more information call 979-8903 or e-mail jamie@ Mission Drive, Solvang. $20/adult, $15/Senior (65 hparkerhotels.com. and older) or Youth (18 and younger). Tickets may be purchased by Chorale Members, at El Rancho Solvang Community Nativity Pageant – 5 and Marketplace, The Book Loft or online at www. 7 p.m. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 Second St., Solvang. syvchorale.org.

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Every Monday

Every Tuesday

Knitting - 9 a.m.; Computer class 9:30 a.m.; Bridge and Poker - 1 p.m. at the Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-1086.

Every Wednesday

Yoga - 9:15 a.m.; Bingo - 1 p.m., Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-1086. Knit and Crochet - 1 p.m. at the Buellton Senior Center, West Hwy. 246, Buellton. Call 688-4571. Solvang Farmers Market - 2:30-6:30 p.m. Between Mission Drive and Copenhagen Drive, Solvang.

Home School PE – 2:45-3:45 p.m. at Itty Bitty Sports; 4-4:45 p.m. Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA, 900 N. Refugio Road, Santa Ynez. 686-2037. Karaoke - Eleven Wine Lounge, 3640 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez. Free. Call 691-9134. Friday Night Jazz – Now through Dec. 29. 6-9 p.m. The Bear and Star, 2860 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. Food and drink available for purchase. No cover charges. Visit www.bearandstar.com.

Every Saturday

Junior Golf Clinics – Zaca Creek Golf Course, 223 Shadow Mountain Drive, Buellton. Free. Call 698-6224 or e-mail bob@oldeschoolgolfschool.com. Cachuma Lake Nature Walk – 10-11:30 a.m. Call 6884515 or visit www.sbparks.org. KidKraft – 2-2:45 p.m. 2nd Saturday of each month. The Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, 1511 Mission Drive, Solvang. Monthly Art Class for all ages. $5/child (adult admission included).

Coming Up Log onto www.cityofsolvang.com or www.buelltonrec.com to see the full schedule of programs and events from adult sports to youth sports, teen dances, field trips and excursions.

Trivia Night – 7-9 p.m. Naughty Oak Tap Room, 3569 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez. Visit www.naughtyoak.com.

Every Thursday

Chair Exercises - 10 a.m. at the Buellton Senior Center, West Hwy. 246, Buellton. Call 688-4571.

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32 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H December 5 - 18, 2017

$5,300,000 | 7369 Highway 246, Lompoc | 348± acs (assr)

$3,349,000 | 3169 Montecielo Dr, Santa Ynez | 4BD/3½BA

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$2,395,000 | 1475 Edison St, Santa Ynez | 3BD/2½BA Claire Hanssen | 805.680.0929

$1,895,000 | 1125 Ladan Dr, Solvang | 5BD/4BA Laura Drammer | 805.448.7500

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$1,695,000 | 2750 N Refugio Rd, Santa Ynez | 4BD/3½BA Claire Hanssen | 805.680.0929

$1,375,000 | 2100 Adobe Canyon Rd, Ballard | 3BD/2BA Nina Stormo | 805.729.4754

$1,175,000 | 930 College Canyon Rd, Solvang | 3BD/3BA Nina Stormo | 805.729.4754

$1,100,000 | 406 Bell St, Los Alamos | Commercial Suzy Ealand/Ken Sideris | 805.698.9902/455.3159

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$599,000 | 746 Hillside, Solvang | 3BD/2½BA Carole Colone | 805.708.2580

$505,000 | 34 Shadow Mountain Dr, Buellton | 3BD/2BA Deanna Harwood | 805.325.1452

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$354,000 | 38531 Chaparrosa Wy, Palm Desert | 3BD/2BA Suzy Ealand/Ken Sideris | 805.698.9902/455.3159

$339,000 | 74499 E Mercury Cir, Palm Desert | 3BD/2BA Suzy Ealand/Ken Sideris | 805.698.9902/455.3159

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©2017 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. CalBRE 01317331