Santa Ynez Valley Star • April 18, 2023

'Gabbie' Robles named SYV Youth Rec Queen

Santa Ynez High School senior has been playing sports through SYV Rec nearly all her life

By Pamela Dozois

Contributing Writer

Gabriela (Gabbie) Robles has been chosen Santa Ynez Valley Youth Rec Queen for 2023. A Santa Ynez Valley Union High School senior, throughout most of her 18 years, Robles has been active in one sports activity or another, which she played on facilities provided by Youth Rec. When she wasn’t at one of her many activities, she was watching one of her siblings.

“I applied to be the Santa Ynez Valley Youth Rec Queen because I wanted to help give back to my community because of all the sports I’ve played in my life on facilities that were created by Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation,” said Robles. “I have been volunteering for the Queen Campaign events since I joined the National Charity League in the seventh grade. I’ve seen how much time and effort goes into putting on these events and watching the Queen perform her many duties inspired me to want to help give back to the community and Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation for all their efforts in providing facilities for the youth of the Valley to enjoy and excel.”

Robles said her association with Santa Ynez Valley Rec started early.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Gabriela (Gabbie) Robles has been chosen Santa Ynez Valley Youth Rec Queen for 2023. Contributed Photo

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

fire to the unit of origin by County Fire and no other units were said to be affected.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

SANTA YNEZ

Eighth Annual Airport Day Set for May 20

The 8th Annual Santa Ynez Valley Airport Day will take place on May 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event includes dozens of aircraft on display with pilots who can explain general aviation and their experiences flying. Free intro flights will also be offered for kids from ages 8-17.

includes talking, texting, or using an app. Using a handheld cellphone while driving is punishable by a fine. Violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record.

If you have an important phone call, text, email, or in a situation with other distractions, pull over to a safe parking spot. Other distractions can be eating, grooming, reaching for something that fell on the floor, putting on or taking off clothing, talking with passengers, or children in the back seat.

The Diablo Canyon Decommissioning Engagement Panel was created to foster open and frequent dialogue between members of the local community and PG&E on matters related to DCPP decommissioning. Panelists are local community members from across the Central Coast who were selected to broadly represent diverse community viewpoints.

Head-On Collision Closes Highway 1

Temporarily

A head-on collision on Highway 1 on Las Cruces Grade just north of the Highway 101 turnoff left the road closed in both directions and left two people injured, one critically. The collision happened at 5:41 a.m. The two motorists were hospitalized, with one of them critical and airlifted to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital via Calstar. Both northbound and southbound lanes were said by Caltrans to be closed, but were announced as open about an hour later.

SOLVANG

Two Displaced by Apartment Fire

Two residents were displaced after a Monday afternoon (April 10) apartment fire on the 500 block of Second Place in Solvang. Santa Barbara County Fire responded at 3:23 p.m. after occupants in a second-floor unit heard the smoke detector go off. Fire personnel knocked down and confined the

The event is free, with parking and barbecue food included. Last year approximately 1,000 attended the event and that amount is expected this year.

During Airport Day, the Santa Ynez Valley Airport Board of Directors will be awarding a scholarship to a Santa Ynez Valley resident between the ages of 16 and 19. Last year's winner, Helen Pruitt-Kennett, recently passed her FAA oral and flight exam to receive her private pilot license.

CENTRAL COAST

Get Off Your Apps: April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month; according to the 2022 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, nearly 72 percent of drivers surveyed said that distracted driving because of texting was their biggest safety concern.

Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle. This

Funding for distracted driving enforcement is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

PG&E and Diablo Canyon Decommissioning Engagement Panel Announce New Members

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and the Diablo Canyon Decommissioning Engagement Panel (DCDEP) today announced the appointment of four new members to the DCDEP, and the reappointment of two members. The four new appointees — Ernest "Gerry" Finn, Jessica Kendrick, Patrick Lemieux, and Frances Romero — will begin their terms in May of 2023. Kara Woodruff and Bob Pavlik have been reappointed.

The panel provides community input to PG&E as the company prepares a site-specific plan for the future decommissioning of Diablo Canyon Power Plant (DCPP) and spent fuel management. The DCDEP members will now include: Finn (three-year term begins May 2023), Kendrick (two-year term begins May 2023), Lemieux (three-year term begins May 2023), Romero (three-year term begins May 2023), Pavlik (one-year reappointment begins May 2023), and Woodruff (three-year reappointment begins May 2023).

“The panel has proven to be invaluable to the DCPP decommissioning activity planning and process. The diversity of the panel members ensures PG&E hears from all voices in the community as to the future of DCPP lands and facilities,” said Maureen Zawalick, Vice President of Business and Technical Services. “PG&E looks forward to working with the previous panel members and the new Panel members to continue this important work.”

The new members bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the panel, with backgrounds in renewable energy, engineering, land use planning, government relations, and community outreach. PG&E is confident that these individuals will help the company in its efforts to decommission the Diablo Canyon Power Plant and manage spent fuel in a safe and responsible manner.

Friends of the Earth Files Lawsuit Against PG&E for Continued Operation of Diablo Canyon Past 2025

Friends of the Earth has filed a lawsuit against Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) in San Francisco Superior Court, seeking to stop the utility from continuing to operate the Diablo Canyon Power Plant in Avila Beach past 2025. In 2016, Friends of the Earth and PG&E agreed in a contract that Diablo Canyon would close by 2025. This was in exchange for Friends of the Earth dropping a lawsuit over environmental and public safety concerns at the plant.

Last month, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) determined PG&E could continue operating Diablo Canyon past 2025 while the utility works through the relicensing process. Friends of the Earth responded with a lawsuit filed yesterday, asking the court to order the utility to abide by the 2016 agreement and shut the plant down by 2025.

PG&E received backing from both federal and state officials to extend the operating life of Diablo Canyon through 2030, with a goal of providing Californians electric reliability. PG&E needs to obtain license renewals from the NRC, as well as regulatory approval from other federal and state agencies in order to keep operating the plant past 2025. The utility is planning to file a new license renewal application by the end of 2023, while it continues to operate under the existing licenses.

Friends of the Earth is represented by attorneys at Briscoe Ivester & Bazel LLP. The outcome of this lawsuit will determine whether PG&E will be able to continue

A

is shown after being involved in a head-on collision the morning of Thursday, April 13. Two people were injured in the crash, one critically. Photo by Santa Barbara County Fire

Solvang Selects New City Manager

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

Solvang has hired its new city manager as the contract for Randy Murphy to fill the position was passed by the City Council during its regular meeting on Monday, April 10.

The council voted 5-0 to OK Murphy's contract as city manager. He will begin his duties on Friday, April 28, with the employment agreement lasting for three years, through April 27, 2026, with compensation of $190,000 per year.

Murphy, currently the general manager of the Hidden Valley Lake Association, a homeowners' group in Northern California, has more than 30 years of management experience, more than 20 of them in the public sector.

Murphy was in attendance at the start of the April 10 meeting and introduced himself to the people in attendance.

"I'm very excited to be here, and I'm looking forward to the opportunity to serve this community," he said. "As I told the council during the selection process, I have a passion for public service and look forward to sharing that passage."

Murphy went on to joke about being a San Francisco Giants fan moving into a community with a lot of L.A. Dodgers fans, and expressed encouragement about his talks with other area city leaders leading up to the start of his tenure.

"I'm ready to hit the ground running on April 28," he said.

Murphy received a welcome from speakers during public comment, but a couple of them

raised concerns about his work experience.

On Zoom, Sheila Benedict complimented Murphy on his "excellent credentials," but was concerned that in looking at his resume he "averaged about 11 months on the job."

"I hope he's planning to stay more than 11 months in our beautiful little community," she said.

Also on Zoom, Vashti Wilson,

who until recently was a member of Solvang Tourism Advisory Board, elaborated on his work history even further.

"In viewing his resume, I'm seeing him in jobs for five months, three months, seven months, 11 months," Wilson said. "He has been with the homeowner’s association for three years, but before that, on his one city administrator job, he was fired from after a performance review, having that

for a year and a half.

"At this amount of money, for this position, to have someone who's held a job more than three years once in 22 years, I caution the city in doing that."

Councilmember Claudia Orona defended the council's selection of Murphy and the process of the selection.

"This was a long, painstaking process," she said. "Of all the candidates we had, some were interested but not qualified, and others were making salary demands that were questionable. We weighed the pros and cons, and determined that Randy is the best person for this job.

"It's no easy task, but I hope people realize we’re on the same team, and we should support Randy through this transition."

The city manager position had been open since the resignation of Xenia Bradford in September 2022. Brad Vidro, a former Solvang City Manager himself, has been serving as interim city manager since October 2022.

Murphy has been the GM of the Hidden Valley Lake Association since June 2019. Hidden Valley Lake is a gated subdivision in Lake County, located 97 miles north of San Francisco, and 114 miles west of Sacramento.

Before starting with the HVLA, Murphy held administrative positions with several cities in California, including Benicia, Oroville, and Tulare.

Randy Murphy, currently the GM of the Hidden Valley Lake Association, is picked after seven-month search

Newly named Solvang City Manager Randy Murphy addresses the City Council shortly before the council voted to approve his contract. Murphy will assume his duties as city manager on April 28. Screenshot from YouTube

California Eases COVID Rules in Healthcare Settings

WHO revises global vaccine recommendations

By Hayley Mattson

In a major milestone for California, after three years health officials announced plans to ease COVID-19 masking guidelines and terminate vaccination requirements for healthcare workers in high-risk settings.

The California Department of Public Health declared that statewide mask usage in healthcare facilities, correctional facilities, and emergency and homeless shelters will no longer be mandatory, effective April 3. At the same time, COVID-19 vaccinations will no longer be required for healthcare workers, including those in adult and direct care settings, correctional facilities, and detention centers.

Dr. Tomás Aragón, California's public health director and state health officer, explained that the state has reached a point where it can balance the need for prevention with the reality of living with the virus. The

decision to ease restrictions comes as Governor Gavin Newsom officially ended California's three-year state of emergency that was sent in place on March 4, 2020. Despite the relaxed guidelines, Aragón stated that Californians will still have access to COVID-19 vaccines, testing, and treatment without any out-of-pocket costs. Those with private health insurance or Medi-Cal enrollment can access these services from any licensed provider without additional costs until Nov. 11.

The lifting of all COVID-19 restrictions marks a significant milestone in the journey that communities have endured over the past three years. This period will not be easily forgotten and serves as a reminder of the progress that has been made towards recovery and a brighter future.

In a separate development, the World Health Organization's (WHO) vaccine experts have revised their global COVID-19 vaccination recommendations. The updated roadmap now considers healthy children and

teenagers a low priority, suggesting they may not require vaccination. The new guidelines prioritize vaccines for individuals at the highest risk of death and severe disease, taking into account the Omicron stage of the pandemic and high population immunity levels due to vaccines and infections.

The Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) has issued new streamlined recommendations that focus on high-, medium-, and low-risk groups. For high-priority groups, including older individuals, immunocompromised people, frontline health workers, and pregnant people, SAGE recommends additional booster doses six or 12 months after the last booster dose. Medium-risk groups, such as children and adolescents with health risks and healthy adults under 60 years old, are recommended to receive primary vaccinations and first booster doses but not routine additional boosters.

For healthy children aged six months to 17 years, countries should consider vaccination based on factors like disease burden

and cost-effectiveness. SAGE emphasized that the public health impact of vaccinating healthy children and adolescents is comparatively much lower than that of traditional essential vaccines like rotavirus, measles, and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines.

SAGE's vaccine guidance is based on current epidemiological conditions and may change if the pandemic evolves. Countries are making their vaccine recommendations based on vaccine supply and progress while acknowledging competing health priorities when it comes to vaccinations. As the situation unfolds, health officials worldwide will continue to monitor developments and adjust their strategies accordingly.

After three years of analyzing all the data and conducting research, it is now possible to advise individuals on the effects of the COVID-19 vaccines. However, it is crucial to conduct your own research and consult with your doctor before following any medical advice that does not take your medical history into account.

Families Flock to Buellton's Easter Eggstravaganza SPOTLIGHT

they could of the colorful, plastic eggs laid out across the park's spacious lawn.

It had to have been a great sight for Fred Lageman and Kristen Thompson of Buellton Rec, who helped organize the event.

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

Children and their families from all around the Santa Ynez Valley got a head start on their Easter egg-gathering skills on April 8 as the Buellton and Solvang Parks and Recreation Department put on the 32nd annual Easter Eggstravaganza at River View Park in Buellton.

A crowd estimated to be between 1,000 and 1,200 people came on a sunny Saturday morning, one day before Easter Sunday to see kids of all ages try to pick up as many as

"We're out of the pandemic, so these events are drawing again," Lageman said. "Last year, we had it here [River View Park] and the crowd was a little lower than we thought, but I think this year we have a great turnout."

Billed as the "Valley's Biggest Hunt," the park's field was split into four regions by age (0-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12) and hidden among the eggs in each section was one "golden egg" that would win one of four large Easter baskets to take home.

Lageman in his role as emcee, stood at his table in the middle of the field with the

"golden" Easter baskets and counted down the seconds to the start of the hunt at 10 a.m. As he gave the OK, a sea of kids wandered out to pick up as many as they could, the younger ones with the help of their parents.

The hunt lasted somewhere between 5-10 minutes, after which groups of kids and their families were huddled up opening the plastic eggs full of candy, and some of them that were truly "golden."

One of the lucky kids who got a golden egg was Kinsely Hartman, who would be seen on a park bench with her prize and her dad by her side.

"She was happy winning it and all," said her father, Josh Hartman. "But the big part is that we had fun, and it was a great event."

Afterward, the Eggstravaganza attendees got to enjoy a number of activities created

by some local volunteers: A petting zoo with a pig and a couple of lambs milling about (which drew a huge line of people waiting), courtesy of Randy Jones and Pork Palace. Also, local churches Crossroads, Presbyterian, and Grace Bible set up booth where kids could play carnival games like the milk can toss and axe throwing (relax, it's the plastic kind).

And, of course, what would an Easter party be without the Easter Bunny, and he was there also, posing for pictures with everyone. One of the groups sitting for a photo with the bunny was Luis Andrade and his family, wife Pamela and sons Carter and Austin.

"We're locals and we've been going to this event since the boys could walk," Luis Andrade said. "We always have a great time here."

In addition to numerous egg hunts, kids and parents alike enjoy games, animals and hanging with the Easter Bunny

Kolin Stepanenko is clearly enjoying himself while looking for eggs during the Easter Eggstravaganza on April 8 at River View Park in Buellton (top left). A father and son gather up some more eggs during the Easter Eggstravaganza egg hunt April 8 at Buellton's River View Park (top right). Kids and their parents line up outside the egg hunt areas in anticipation of the Easter Eggstravaganza event April 8 at River View Park in Buellton (top middle). Photos by Mike Chaldu/SYVS

operating the Diablo Canyon Power Plant past 2025, as agreed in the 2016 contract with Friends of the Earth.

Central Coast Creative Crops to Provide $140K Grants for 23 Year-Long Art Projects

The Arts Council for Monterey County, Arts Council Santa Cruz County, the San Benito County Arts Council, the San Luis Obispo County Arts Council, the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts and Culture, and the Ventura County Arts Council have announced the Central Coast Creative Corps (CCCC) program.

The new grant opportunity is funded by the California Arts Council, which will provide $140,000 grants for 23 projects produced by working partnerships between community-based organizations, including nonprofits, government agencies or tribal governments, and local artists, creative workers, or culture bearers.

The program’s goal is to invest in artists across disciplines to collaborate with community partners for 12 months on producing a sustained outreach and engagement initiative addressing one of the following four priority areas as identified by the California Arts Council:

1. Public Health awareness messages to stop the spread of COVID-19

2. Climate Impact — public awareness of water and energy conservation, climate change, mitigation, emergency preparedness, relief, and recovery

3. Civic Engagement, including election participation

4. Social Justice and community engagement

Community partners are invited to apply for the funds and engage an artist, or individual artist collective, for a one-year project from September 2023 to August 2024. Of the funding award, $100,000 will go directly to the artist for their work on the campaign, with $20,000 allocated for artist-community relations, supplies and materials, and other costs incurred for production and/or implementation; and $20,000 for the organization for program administration.

The grant opportunity is open to community-based organizations in the Central Coast Region (Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties). The program pri-

oritizes communities that demonstrate the highest levels of need, as indicated by the California Healthy Places Index (HPI).

“The Central Coast has a proud history of artist-led social change. We are thrilled to offer this funding to help Central Coast communities envision artistic, creative, and innovative solutions to some of our region’s most pressing challenges,” said Sarah York Rubin, executive director of the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts and Culture, which will serve as the lead administering organization for the CCCC.

Community partners who receive grants will be able to access a directory of Central Coast artists expressing interest in program participation. The searchable directory will include artists’ resumes, media or medium, years of artistic practice, geographic location, area of geographic interest, work samples, and community engagement experience. They may select an artist or artist collective from the directory, or work with an artist they may already be affiliated with. Artists can sign up to join the directory at centralcoastartists.org.

This program is shared and administered in the Central Coast region by county-designated arts agencies from all six counties. They will work cooperatively to support program administration and serve as primary partners, service providers, and communication conduits in their respective geographies. This program is part of the California Creative Corps, developed by the California Arts Council in partnership with the state Legislature. California Creative Corps is an economic and workforce recovery pilot program intended to support pandemic recovery and the environmental, civic, and social engagement of California’s most disproportionately impacted communities.

“We are so excited to work with our regional partners to support socially engaged arts projects across the Central Coast,” said Jordan Chesnut, programs director of SLO County Arts Council. “This is a really incredible opportunity.”

More information about eligibility, how community partners can apply for this grant, and upcoming information sessions that will offer guidance and address questions throughout the application period can be found on the Central Coast Creative Corps website at centralcoastcreativecorps.org/. Spanish-language assistance is available.

The deadline to apply is May 1 by 5 p.m.

Pirates Baseball Powers Through Tough Season

SYHS softball team gets first league win of the year

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

The Santa Ynez High baseball team has had a tough time of it in the 2023 baseball season, one year after making the CIF Southern Section Division 6 semifinals, but there have been positives.

The Pirates, 6-12-1 overall after a 4-3 loss to Bishop Montgomery on April 12, have seen bright spots in the lineup like Caleb Cassidy (.487) and Nick Crandall (.409) hitting over .400 for the year, while Ryan Henrey (.377) and Dallas DeForest (.364) have also been hitting well. Henrey (12), Cassidy (12), and Crandall (11) have also been doing well in the RBI department.

On the pitching side, Tate Minus has led the team in starts (10) and wins (3), while has been able to fashion a 2.82 ERA in seven appearances.

The Pirates were able to pick up a couple win at the Nipomo Tournament last week. The first was against Santa Maria on April 11, with Adam Stephens going 2-for-2 with 2 runs scored and Crandall and Henrey had 3 RBI apiece.

The day before that, they beat host Nipomo 7-3 as Cassidy took the mound and pitched a complete-game six-hitter, while also going 3-for-4 at the plate with 3 RBI.

Santa Ynez will be back in action on Saturday, April 22, playing a doubleheader at Lompoc.

Softball

The Lady Pirates picked up their first Ocean League win of the year on April 5, beating Santa Maria 12-8.

Kylie LaPointe pitched 7 innings with 7 strikeouts to get the win, and also had 2 stolen bases. Kalianne Lawver hit a huge two-run homer in the seventh inning.

Sierra (Bear) Vannasap (two singles), and Cierra Cloud (2 doubles, 1 stolen base) also excelled.

On April 7, SYHS suffered a 14-8 loss to San Luis Obispo, but Brooke Phelan (4-

for-4 with an RBI), Cierra Cloud (3-for4 with three RBI), Lawver (2 RBI), and Abby Hemming (3 hits) all did well at the plate.

Santa Ynez returns to action Wednesday, April 19, with an Ocean League game at Nipomo.

Girls Beach Volleyball

On April 3, the Pirates suffered its first Mountain League loss, falling to San Luis Obispo 2-1.

Sadie Lishman and Hannah Allen got the lone win for SYHS, beating Ana Shalhoob and Lyla Merk 22-10, 21-10.

“SLO played excellent wind ball today," Pirates coach Melissa Rogers said. "Unfortunately, we struggled with limiting our errors and in the extreme wind, the team that makes the least number of errors wins.”

The Pirates came back the next day to beat Mission Prep and now stand at 6-1 in league and 10-5 overall pending the Thursday, April 13, non-league match against Laguna Blanca, and a Monday, April 17, league match at Arroyo Grande. The team will then close out the regular season with a match at San Luis Obispo on Wednesday, April 19.

Track and field

The Pirates traveled to the Arcadia Invitational on Easter Weekend and Chase Sylvia had a successful day, breaking his own school record in the invitational triple jump — his leap of 45'08.25" was 7.25" better than the previous mark.

Sylvia also entered the invitational long jump and finished ninth with a jump of 31'01.5".

Boys golf

The Santa Ynez High team played in the sixth Mountain League tournament on April 4 at Hunter Ranch in Paso Robles.

The Pirates finished sixth with a team score of 437 and were led by senior Rye Winans, with a score of 79. Host Templeton won the tournament with a team score of 404. Cooper Groshart of San Luis Obispo was the medalist of the tournament shooting an even par-72.

The rest of the SYHS golfers were Brayden Mlodzik (83), Owen Hirth (86), Cody Armenta (91), and Marcelo Andrade (98).

Boys tennis

The Pirates tennis team suffered losses against San Luis Obispo (9-0) and Orcutt Academy (6-3) last week, but they did edge Paso Robles 5-4 in a league match on April 4. Bryce Wilczak (6-1, 6-1), Lucas Doman (6-1, 6-0) and Cooper Haws (7-5, 2-6, 10-6) got the singles wins, while Wilczak and Haws (6-4, 6-4), and Doman and William Small (6-1, 6-2) took the doubles points.

Dallas DeForest takes a swing during the Pirates' game against Arroyo Grande on April 7. DeForest is one of the team's top hitters with a .364 average. Photos by Mike Chaldu

Tate Minus, who leads all Santa Ynez High pitchers in wins (3) and starts (10), goes into his windup in the Pirates' April 7 game against Arroyo Grande.

Say What? Common Cents: Disarray in DC OPINION

anything they said or did since I was kneehigh to a grasshopper.

#8 Excuse me — This is a derivative or subspecies of the phrase "come again." Nowadays teenagers are more apt to say, "What chew talking about?"

By Lee Pitts Columnist

Please pardon me for being brash, but I think I'm a very polite and well-mannered person. I owe it all to my grandmother who was a real stickler for proper manners, vocabulary, and elocution. Believe me, if my thank-you notes for Christmas gifts weren't postmarked on December 26, I might be cut off completely the following year, and I could hardly afford that. My grandmother was probably the reason why I didn't learn how to be a really good cusser until I went to work in the oilfields.

People who study such things say that a language somewhere in the world becomes extinct every two weeks. Even in America, we're losing words at an alarming rate, and while I think it's good that the "n" word is used less and less, it saddens me not to hear words like persnickety, cahoots, and horsefeathers anymore. Regarding our present sad, sickly state, we need to round up all the doctors who had anything to do with curing "cooties" and making that word disappear from the American lexicon and replacing it with COVID-19. Listen to the way today's teenagers talk, and you'll realize we're witnessing the death of chivalry in this country. Here are ten words or phrases that are more endangered than all the monkey tree frogs and fanged bats combined.

#10 Hello or Goodbye — On my daily walks, I often pass others and only about 20 percent of them bother to acknowledge my existence in any way. Mostly it's because they have earbuds in their ears listening to rap music or they are too busy yelling at their smartphones. When I was a kid, we got a kick out of using creative ways to say "goodbye" and used phrases like, "See you later alligator," "After a while crocodile," and "See you around like a donut."

#9 I'm Sorry — Heavens to Murgatroyd, I haven't heard anyone take responsibility for

#7 Thank You — The last time I got a thank you note in the mail was during the Nixon administration. And e-mail thank you's don't count because they are too easy. To show real appreciation you should have to look for a Hallmark card, buy a stamp and go to the Post Office.

#6 No, thank you — This idiom has been replaced by "Get lost." Or, "For the hundredth time, please tell your computer to quit robocalling me and take my name off your list."

#5 How are you? This query used to show one's sincere interest in a person's physical well-being. Now it's only heard when the beneficiary of an elderly, sick, rich person wants to know when you intend to bite the dust and if there was anything said recipient could do to hasten such an outcome.

#4 Your welcome — This phrase went out with Betamax, get the lead out, cut a rug, soda jerks and hobos. The updated version is: "No problemo."

#3 Let me get that for you — This phrase was last heard in 1987 and was used when a man would open the door for a lady or a bus full of ladies from the rest home. A gentleman did this even if it meant not getting his favorite seat by the window because one of the ladies took it.

#2 I beg your pardon — This was used by the older, more well-bred, and civilized people of my youth. We on the playground used an alternative phrase: "Liar, liar, pants on fire." This polite expression is older than Methusala and was used when someone said or did something that flabbergasted you. Since no one is "flabbergasted" anymore or has any idea of who Methusala is, people just say: "Chew messin' with me, man?"

#1 Please — A polite request as in, "Please, Mister Big Shot, would you turn off that obnoxious phone or go outside to talk. I'm trying to enjoy a $45 lunch with my wife and don't need to know about your booming business, your sorry sex life, or your otherwise egotistical existence.

Lee Pitts is an independent columnist for The Santa Ynez Valley Star; you can email them at leepitts@leepittsbooks.com.

By Scott Dittrich Guest Columnist

Many Americans are feeling an unease not experienced since the 1950s, with hiding under your school desk and public fallout shelters in the event of nuclear Armageddon.

Are recent banking failures a harbinger of worse things to come? How could regulators allow the second and third worse banking failures in US history to occur? Add the proxy war against Russia in Ukraine, threats by China to invade Taiwan, Iran on the verge of a nuclear bomb, our justice system being politicized while violent repeat criminals are released, fentanyl killing our kids, and government pressuring tech to censor free speech, people are scared.

Framed against a background of COVID and what many believe was a botched response with unnecessary lockdowns, lying about vaccines with limited efficacy, and denial of major side effects, the promise of the shining city on the hill seems to have lost its luster. The administration tells us all it is under control; just get your annual booster, but increasingly the concerns of nuclear confrontation and a major economic collapse hangs over us like the sword of Damocles.

Inflation is stuck around 6 percent. Except it's not. The ever-increasing cost of food and eating out is at least double, maybe triple. Not a big deal if your retired and make 200K a year, but for a family with an average income this is devastating.

The stock market is down 20 percent, CDs and treasuries are up but lag far behind price increases, and the purchasing power of cash is at least ten percent less than one year ago. California's new "mansion" tax will take 5 percent of the sale price — not profit — of your beach home.

The FED especially seems to be in disarray, waiting too long to raise interest rates and then imposing historically rapid increases, only to get cold feet recently as their policies undermine regional banks like Silicon Valley and Signature. Apparently, those banks were the only ones unaware interest rates were increasing — unless they, like Sam Bankman-Fried with crypto, felt their political connections would shield them from failure.

Then there is Jerome Powell and Janet Yellen. Neither will admit our current inflation and banking contagion was caused by the massive spending by the Biden Administration — magnifying Trump's already huge spending during the COVID lockdowns. The lack of honesty by

those in charge of economic policy undermines confidence, and it is confidence in the future that grows the economy through investment. Instead, we see layoffs and cutbacks, suggestive of impending stagflation.

While the war in Ukraine gets much attention — at least with good coverage on CNN — other international news seems strangely absent from much of our media. While Biden has slowly ramped up military support for Zelensky — aiming for regime change in Russia, most analysts believe it was his muddled withdrawal from Afghanistan, combined with President Obama's weak reaction to Russia taking Crimea in 2014 (he sent blankets) that encouraged Putin to invade Ukraine. Remember Biden assured us Russia would not invade as their army spent months amassing troops on the Ukrainian border. This has been widely reported, but America's weakness in foreign affairs is much deeper, though seldom discussed.

Our adversaries — namely China — realize that it is our energy policies, focused on limiting fossil fuels years before we can transition to renewables, that has and is weakening our economic base, while the PRC — figuratively with a middle finger raised to the West and to the environment — builds 50 plus coal power plants every year, in a headlong rush to overtake us, knowing cheap energy is the key to economic growth on which military superiority can be built.

Other seldom-reported events reveal how the administration's weakness and ineptitude is shifting the balance of power internationally. The Saudi rapprochement with Iran can be laid at the feet of our President's naive (but valid) condemnation of the Saudi King. Russia has been driven closer to China. One-time allies are secretively seeking nukes, no longer confident the US will protect them. But most dangerous to the US are recent Saudi oil sales to China and Brazil. These will no longer utilize petrodollars (and Biden pushed left-leaning Silva in a razor-thin race for president there).

Should the dollar fail as the world reserve currency, our huge national debt will crash the dollar, resulting in an unprecedented and sudden decline in our standard of living and probably social unrest, allowing China to reach its goal of surpassing the US economically as well as militarily.

Scott Dittrich is an independent columnist. The opinions expressed by the writer in this article are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or values of The Santa Ynez Valley Star or its affiliates.

Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival set for April 29-30

Celebrating a legacy of environmental protection

The Community Environmental Council (CEC) and CarpEvents are proud to announce the 53rd annual Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, taking place on April 29 and 30 at Alameda Park. This event is one of the longest-running and largest Earth Day celebrations on the West Coast, and it brings together the community to celebrate and raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection.

The festival was born out of the devastation caused by the massive oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara in 1969. The spill caught the attention of Senator Gaylord Nelson, founder of Earth Day, who visited Santa Barbara shortly after the spill. This event gave rise to the first Earth Day in 1970, as well as the creation of the Community Environmental

in areas with the most impact on climate change. Their programs provide pathways to clean vehicles, solar energy, resilient food systems, and reduction of single-use plastic.

One of the highlights of the festival is the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival’s Green Car Show, the longest-running public Green Car Show in the U.S. The show will showcase the latest in electric vehicle technology, providing attendees with the opportunity to testdrive the cleanest and most advanced vehicles on the market.

In addition to the Green Car Show, the festival will feature a Kids Corner, with activities and family-friendly performances for children of all ages. The event will also include two days of live music and entertainment on multiple stages, as well as the best farm-to-table climate-friendly food and drinks from local vendors.

The legacy of the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival dates back to the 1969 oil spill in the Santa Barbara Channel, which galvanized

Environmental Council. The spill was one of the largest in U.S. waters at the time, and it resulted in the deaths of thousands of birds, dolphins, seals, and sea lions.

In the aftermath of the spill, President Nixon visited Santa Barbara and Senator Gaylord Nelson saw the 800-square-mile oil slick from an airplane, inspiring him to create Earth Day. Over 20 million Americans participated in Earth Day events across the country on April 22, 1970, including a one-block-long gathering organized by the Community Environmental Council in Santa Barbara.

The spill also led to the formation of several Santa Barbara-based environmental organizations, including the Community Environmental Council, the Environmental Defense Center, the Environmental Studies Program at UC Santa Barbara, and Get Oil Out! These organizations continue to work towards a sustainable future for the planet.

For more information about the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, including the Green Car Show, music and entertainment lineup, and food and drink offerings, please visit sbearthday.org.

About Community Environmental Council

The Community Environmental Council is one of the most established environmental organizations in the region, with a mission to pioneer real-life solutions to the most pressing environmental challenges. Through their programs, they provide pathways to clean vehicles, solar energy, resilient food systems, and reduction of single-use plastic.

The Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival will be held April 29-30 at Alameda Park. Contributed Photo

Santa Barbara Zoo, CSUCI Launch Educational Partnership and Campus Conservation Center

Both sides feel partnership will be crucial in the effort to re-establish threatened species in the region

Staff Report

SANTA BARBARA — California State University, Channel Islands (CSUCI) and the Santa Barbara Zoo have announced a partnership that will enrich academic opportunities for students and enhance wildlife conservation, research, and outreach throughout the region.

CSUCI President Richard Yao and Santa Barbara Zoo President and CEO Richard Block signed a memorandum of understanding on Friday, April 14 at the zoo, formalizing the relationship. The agreement paves the way for future collaboration and outlines plans for a zoo-owned and managed conservation center on the CSUCI campus.

“By partnering with a world-class zoo right here in our backyard, we are strengthening our commitment to be a ‘conservation campus’ on the Central Coast,” said Yao. “We are excited about the opportunities for our students to work side by side with zoo personnel and CSUCI faculty to protect and reestablish threatened species in our region and to develop vital skills in conservation education and management. It is our hope that students and faculty from all disciplines and programs of study will have a chance to benefit from and contribute to our partnership with the zoo. It will present rich opportunities for interdisciplinary collaborations.”

“We are excited to partner with CSUCI to establish the first zoo-owned and managed facility accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums on a university campus,” Block said. “Through this alliance, we look forward to expanding our zoo conservation programs and providing a learning laboratory where students can assist in the important work of wildlife conservation, education, zoo management and marketing, animal husbandry, guest services, and more. The opportunities to align our programs and resources with CSUCI are limitless.”

The partnership resolves the zoo’s urgent need for more space in which to expand its wildlife conservation efforts. At its 28-acre Santa Barbara site, which is home to more

than 400 animals representing 146 species, the zoo is running out of room to house a growing collection of threatened and endangered species. They include Western snowy plovers, California red-legged frogs, California condors, and Western pond turtles. In the coming years, the zoo plans to shift the majority of its conservation activities and staff to the conservation center at CSUCI.

“It’s game-changing because it enables us to scale up what we are doing in terms of direct conservation interventions on behalf of species recovery,” said Estelle Sandhaus, director of conservation and science at the zoo. “It vastly increases our capacity to take in and protect species during extreme weather events, which is something we are being called upon to do more and more often by our federal and state agency partners.”

That work aligns perfectly with conservation education and research already underway at CSUCI. Associate Professor of Biology Allison Alvarado says she’s looking forward to integrating the zoo’s expertise into courses like conservation genetics, where her students perform case studies on recovery efforts for the island fox and the California condor.

“The Zoo’s expertise and involvement in

recovery of these species will offer students additional first-hand insight on the challenges and rewards associated with the process,” Alvarado said. “We are excited about the hands-on opportunities this partnership will offer for students and faculty to engage in local conservation science and the protection of endangered species in the area.”

CSUCI has identified a 60,000-squarefoot site on the western edge of the campus near Modoc Hall that is ideal for the zoo’s needs. Under the agreement, CSUCI will lease the land to the zoo and the zoo will own the conservation center buildings and facilities. Preliminary plans for the site include classroom and meeting spaces, offices for conservation staff, pens for animal care, containment and breeding, native plant gardens, and spaces for the public to enjoy and participate in the conservation center.

In the meantime, other collaborations are being explored with CSUCI’s other academic disciplines. CSUCI’s Performing Arts program is working with the zoo to develop and stage live shows and performances for visitors. Students in a Spanish capstone course led by Associate Professor Javier Gonzalez are translating materials for the zoo’s summer

camps and other educational materials. And CSUCI’s Early Childhood Studies program is teaming up with the Zoo’s Early Explorers Preschool to bring its bachelor’s degree in early childhood studies to Santa Barbara County in fall 2023.

“The Zoo partnership embodies everything that CSUCI stands for in terms of serving our region as a hub of conservation and education,” said Jennifer Perry, executive director of regional educational partnerships at CSUCI. “Our region is home to a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot. Through our partnerships with the zoo and other agencies like the National Park Service, our faculty and students can be instrumental in bringing species back from the brink of extinction and restoring habitats in a way that’s viable. We can make a difference and be a model of success stories in the face of climate change.”

The Santa Barbara Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. for members and 9:30 a.m. for general admission until 5 p.m.; general admission is $25 for adults, $15 for children 2-12, and free for children under 2. Parking is $11. The Santa Barbara Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). For more information, visit sbzoo.org

The Santa Barbara Zoo’s new partnership with CSU Channel Islands promises to help its conservation efforts as well as its work in helping endangered species like the California red-legged frog, shown above. Devon Pryor Photo Courtesy of Santa Barbara Zoo

Dunn School Aims to Expand Support for Refugee Students

From girls persecuted in Afghanistan to African refugees, Los Olivos boarding school is poised to help

Dunn School in Los Olivos is committed to providing a safe haven for refugees who have been displaced by war and shut out of the educational system. Head of School Kalyan Balaven recently traveled to Cairo, Egypt, to meet with various organizations and embassies to bring more students to the school and offer them a safe and secure environment. The school has a long history of serving as a refuge for students from around the world, and it is now looking to increase its efforts to support refugee students in crisis.

Balaven shared the stories of the refugee students he met with a sold-out crowd at the school’s annual auction and gala. The attendees were moved by the students’ struggles and made a donation of nearly $140,000 in scholarship support, which will cover the cost of travel, education, room, board, and amenities for one student, with nearly enough for a second. The school is now reaching out to the wider community for support to provide safety and security for all the refugee students.

“All of these students deserve to be seen, heard, and known,” Balaven said. “That is the basis for the whole student education we provide at Dunn, and our mission since the founding of the school more than 65 years ago remains our dedication to prepare our students for responsible leadership. Having gone through the hardships they’ve faced, these refugee students are dreaming of ways

they can return home as leaders to make change. We can help them do that at Dunn.”

In response to the growing community of refugees interspersed with the boarding students and local day students, Dunn School has committed to providing more education to its student body around the subject. The school has created a program for refugee studies, which includes courses in refugee literature, environmental justice, and peace and conflict studies, to help all its students become agents of change and prevent the circumstances that lead to refugees in the first place.

The Central Coast community immediately responded last year when Russia’s in-

vasion of Ukraine threatened the lives of a sophomore student and her family. Calls for donations helped Dunn not only secure aid for that student but also bring four additional students from Ukraine, some of whom were reading books underground while explosive air raids battered their neighborhoods above ground. Two of those boys are now admitted to several universities, including the University of Connecticut, which rewarded them with a large scholarship.

Dunn School has always been dedicated to providing a well-rounded education to its students and preparing them for responsible leadership. The school’s core values are emotional wellness, physical readiness, in-

tellectual growth, social responsibility, and moral courage. The school’s commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for refugee students is an extension of its mission and values.

To get involved with Dunn’s effort to create a refuge for international students in crisis by donating, visit dunnschool.org or call (805) 688-6471.

About Dunn School

Dunn School is a boarding and day school located in Los Olivos, California, serving grades 6-12.

Founded in 1957, the school is dedicated to providing a well-rounded education that focuses on emotional wellness, physical readiness, intellectual growth, social responsibility, and moral courage.

Dunn School Head of School Kalyan Balaven meets with refugee students at the Center for Arab West Understanding in Maadi, Egypt. Dunn has a long history of serving as a refuge for students from around the world. Photo Courtesy of Dunn School

ARTS & NONPROFITS

NatureTrack Film Festival Announces Dates for 5th Anniversary Edition

New festival team and locations revealed; submissions open now calling for naturecentric films

GOLETA — Celebrating the return of the beloved NatureTrack Film Festival (NTFF) for its fifth year is good reason to break out the champagne. Lots of exciting news to reveal, like new co-directors for the fest, addition of a development director to the team, add in a new location, official dates, plus call for open submissions to the nature-centric film festival. Most of all, it’s an in-person gathering for the fabulous fifth year. This great little festival that can is curated with a focus on

nature and outdoor-related films – its tag line is "Igniting Passion for Nature Through Film." The program will include both feature-length and short films in a wide variety of genres and subjects including documentary, narrative, animation, experimental, conservation, outdoors adventure, student films, and more.

Sue Eisaguirre, founder and executive director of NatureTrack Foundation, announced the festival dates will be Oct. 6-8 at Metropolitan’s Fairview Theatre in Goleta for the first time.

“Environmental concerns are in the forefront of our community’s collective conscience, and I believe this festival will further inform all those interested in the natural world about other people who

are doing great things around the world," Eisaguirre stated.

"The films will also excite attendees to get outdoors, connect with the natural world and enjoy the elixirs nature offers!”

In addition to the threeday festival in Goleta, NTFF will screen the award-winning films in Los Olivos, where the festival all began, for a "Best

of the Fest" one-day event the following weekend. Location for this event will be announced soon.

Leading the emerging film festival are new Festival Directors Mitchka Saberi and Francisco Lopez. They both graduated from UCSB where Eisaguirre connected with them through Film & Media Studies professor Chris

Jenkins. The team went on to collaborate on a short documentary "The Accessible Outdoors" co-produced by NatureTrack, and the 15-minute short doc made the rounds to film festivals in 2022 picking up several awards.

“As filmmakers ourselves, we were very excited to be invited to become the new festival directors for NTFF," the both stated. "We hope we can curate a selection of films which will open up audiences’ definition of what a nature film can be and put on an event that becomes a staple for the Goleta community as well as for filmmakers from around the world.”

Joining Saberi and Lopez is the new Development Director Gareth Kelly who has also collaborated with Lopez

and Saberi in the past on several film projects as a producer. They are all looking forward to bringing the film festival to the Goleta and Santa Barbara communities.

Film submissions are open now on FilmFreeway. The early deadline for submissions is March 5, and submissions will stay open until the last deadline of June 30th.

To get involved, get upcoming ticket and pass sales, send submissions, and more, check out the NTFF website (naturetrackfilmfestival.org). The festival will be at Fairview Theatre, 225 N. Fairview Ave., in Goleta. For updates, go to Instagram (@ naturetrackfilm). For more info on NatureTrack Film Festival, e-mail mitchka@naturetrackfilmfestival.org or call (805) 844-5406.

Mitchka Saberi and Francisco Lopez, who collaborated on a the award-winning short documentary "The Accessible Outdoors," are the new festival director for the NatureTrack Film Festival. Contributed Photos

Staff Report

Artist Pop-Up Scheduled for April 22 at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM), will host its first Artist Pop-Up of the year on Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on the museum’s patio overlooking the harbor. Designers Janey Cinzori, Gina Sylvia, and Lori West will present items ranging from sea glass jewelry, ceramics, mosaics, and stained glass to photography.

Born and raised in Santa Barbara, Janey Cinzori has followed her passion for and love of the ocean and its surroundings by working in the field of arts and design for more than 30 years. Her jewelry is handcrafted and designed in her Santa Barbara Studio and can be found in many retail locations along the California Coast or on-

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Santa

Ynez

line at oceanjewelsb.com. Partial proceeds of Cinzori’s sales are donated to local nonprofit organizations working to protect the ocean and the Santa Barbara community.

Born and raised in Santa Barbara, Gina Sylvia feels a deep connection to the inherent splendor of the local coastline. As an art instructor for Arts Outreach in the Santa Ynez Valley, she has helped children in the local schools develop their talents as artists. She has taught drawing, watercolor, acrylic painting, collage, and ceramics classes. More recently, she has been creating stained glass, ceramic mosaic animals, and landscapes on stone and wood, but she also loves to use soft pastel to capture the beauty in our local scenery. Follow Sylvia at @ginasylviaart.

Lori West has been photographing people and places for more than 40 years. Her true love is portrait and music photography, but during the pandemic, her love of

landscape photography grew. She has lived in Santa Barbara for more than 12 years, where she can capture nature’s beauty almost every day. As much as West loves photographing people, she also loves the sea, and the beautiful colors of the Pacific Ocean dominate her collection. She regularly travels the coast, but the magnificent beauty of Santa Barbara is exhibited in most of her images. When she’s not taking photographs, you may find her exercising, enjoying a live music show, or taking in the sunshine at the beach with her family. Learn more about West’s photography at loriwestphotography.com.

Throughout the year, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum presents various popup events featuring ocean-themed art, jewelry, and books created by some of the area’s most talented artists and authors. The events are free and open to the public. For more information about the year’s sched-

CITY/STATE/ZIP:

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ule, go to sbmm.org/santa-barbara-events/ About SBMM

Founded in 2000 inside the harbor’s historic Waterfront Center Building (formerly the Naval Reserve Building), the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum creates exhibitions and hands-on, educational experiences that celebrate more than 13,000 years of maritime history in our region — from Chumash culture to today’s surfing scenes and environmental movements. Featuring the impressive “First-Order Fresnel Lighthouse Lens” from Point Conception, SBMM’s current exhibits explore “The History of Oil in Santa Barbara Channel & Chumash Use of Asphaltum,” the history of commercial diving, “The Honda Disaster,” “Whales Are Superheroes!,” “Wives and Daughters: Keepers of the Light,” and “The Lure of Lighthouses & Dancing Waves.”

SBMM is located at 113 Harbor Way, Suite 190, Santa Barbara, CA 93109. Visit sbmm. org or call (805) 962-8404 for details.

The photography of Lori West will be part of the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum’s Artist Pop-Up.

The stained glass and mosaic works by Gina Sylvia will be part of the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum’s Artist Pop-Up on Saturday, April 22.

Jewelry made by Janey Cinzori will be part of the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum’s Artist Pop-Up. Contributed Photos

Exhibit features Janey Cinzori, Gina Sylvia, and Lori West Staff Report

Wildling Museum to Honor Beth Pratt, Mountain Lion P-22 at Wilderness Spirit Brunch

The Wildling Museum is pleased to announce that tickets are on sale now for the 2023 Wilderness Spirit Brunch, taking place Sunday, May 21, at Craft House at Corque in Solvang. This year’s Wilderness Spirit Award recipients are Beth Pratt and cougar P-22.

VIP ticket holders will enjoy a pre-reception mixer with Pratt before savoring a delicious brunch buffet, complete with a Bloody Mary and mimosa bar. Attendees will also enjoy a spirited live auction supporting the Wildling Museum with opportunities to bid on getaways, including a once-in-a-lifetime Alaskan cruise, Santa Ynez Valley experiences, one-of-a-kind artworks, and more.

The main festivities will include the presentation of the Wildling Museum’s Wilderness Spirit Award, an annual recognition of a person or group who strives to bring awareness to wilderness protection and preservation. The Wildling Museum is honored to present the 2023 Wilderness Spirit Award to Beth Pratt, California regional executive director for the National Wildlife Federation, whose incredible work aligns with the Wildling Museum’s mission of bringing art and nature together as a means of preserving our wild spaces.

A lifelong advocate for wildlife, Beth Pratt has worked in environmental lead ership roles for over 25 years, and in two of the country’s largest national parks: Yo semite and Yellowstone.

“I have the best job in the world — ad

vocating for the state’s remarkable wildlife,” she says of her current position with the NWF.

Pratt has worked tirelessly as a longtime advocate for California cougars, most notably L.A.’s famous P-22, who was sadly euthanized last December after living for more than a decade in Griffith Park. She initiated the "Save L.A. Cougars" campaign effort to build a southern California wildlife crossing across Highway 101, resulting in the Wallis Annenberg Wild life Crossing, currently under construction with an anticipated 2025 completion date.

“I am very excited that the Wildling

Museum is honoring Beth Pratt with this year’s Wilderness Spirit Award,” says Kevin Patterson, Wildling Museum Board president. “Beth was instrumental in bringing the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, the largest in the world when completed, to fruition. Her energy and breadth of knowledge are truly inspiring.”

To purchase tickets ($150 general admission/$250 VIP) or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, please visit www. wildlingmuseum.org/news/2023-wilderness-spirit-brunch or call (805) 686-8315. Advance ticket registration is required for this event.

Special thanks to leading sponsors, Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, Gold Sponsors and First Republic Bank, Silver Sponsors.

About the Wildling Museum

The Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, where art and nature meet, offers visitors a unique perspective on the importance of preserving our natural heritage. Through the eyes of artists, and education and field experiences, guests can renew their relationship with the wilderness and understand its fragile nature — hopefully leaving more committed toward ensuring those spaces remain for future generations. Visiting hours are weekdays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. For more information, and to volunteer or join as a member to support this important local arts and nature institution, please visitwildlingmuseum.org.

Beth Pratt, California Regional Executive Director for the National Wildlife Federation and conservation activist will be honored with the Wilderness Spirit Award at the Wildling Museum’s 2023 event. Photo Courtesy of Beth Pratt

Famous cougar P-22, shown here in 2019, was known for roaming Griffith Park in Los Angeles before being euthanized in December 2022. Photo by Roy Dunn

Birth, death, and marriage: How civil records can help in research

Revenue, and to learn more, you can visit their website: recordsnotrevenue.com.

GENEALOGY TIPS

By Sheila Benedict

Last month, part of the discussion was about naturalization records. This month, we begin first with noting there is an effort by the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) to increase their fees and in some cases by a very significant amount. There is a group that is working hard for all of us to keep the fees affordable for everyone. The group is called Records, Not

Having mentioned that important issue, we will now discuss civil records and what they are: records that includes births, marriages, and deaths, and some areas include divorces. They are kept by civil authorities such as a county, a city, or a state. In other countries, the civil authority might be named something different, but for research, we need to know when they were created as every place probably has different dates.

For birth records, the usual person who gives the information for the certificate is the mother of the newborn. There are exceptions of course, especially if the mother is not able to do it, and often the baby’s father gives the information. Most often the child is named right after birth, especially in today’s world with the fact that parents can know the gender of the child and have the name picked out prior to birth. However, it was very different for people researched who

were born years or decades ago. Information on the certificate should include the child’s name, the parent’s names, date and time of birth, hospital or home birth, often the parent’s residence, the date and place where the registration took place, document registration number and the book and page number.

For death certificates, you need name, date and time of death, occupation, residence place of death, cause of death, informant, buried or cremated, funeral home and cemetery, and book/page and certificate number.

PLEASE note that the older the certificate, the less likely all of the above will be included.

Marriage records have similar information but will include the bride and groom’s parents' names and of course, the maiden name of the bride. All of them can have errors so the rule that one record is NEVER enough definitely applies here too.

There are adjunct sources for all of them, which includes newspaper articles, visitor

books, coroner’s reports where needed, a baptismal record, and any documents family creates, such as a written or an oral history.

What about legal records? Those of course are both civil and legal and very important to any research project as often information about a particular person may be included, such as in a will, land purchase, name change, partnership agreement, guardianships, and others. Mistakes will be made that can and will prevent learning accurate genealogical evidence to affirm the information given in not only these sources but all others as well. Also, read and absorb the history of the places where your research takes you as there may be mention when an area started collecting the information. Next month, we'll talk about oral and written histories — their facts and their fictions. Good luck!

Copyright ©2023, Sheila Benedict; All Rights Reserved Email: benedictresearchservices@ gmail.com No reproductions without prior written permission

Spring into Flavor: Explore Local Farmers Markets and Try New Recipes with Fresh Produce

April is a delightful month that welcomes the arrival of spring, bringing with it a sense of renewal and new beginnings. With the end of March marking the official start of spring, we can now fully embrace this season of growth and rejuvenation.

If you're a keen gardener, you may be enjoying the fruits of your labor, with bulbs now blooming in an array of colors. As we fully embrace spring, now is the perfect time to visit our local farmers markets. They offer a bountiful selection of fresh produce, with the season's favorites like asparagus and strawberries now readily available.

Shopping locally is a great way to support the community while indulging in the flavors of the season. If you're looking for a new recipe to try, consider the glazed ham recipe from The Junior League of Pasadena's 1976 cookbook, The California Heritage Cookbook. While many hams come with a prepackaged glaze, it's always fun to experiment with new flavor combinations. Don't be afraid to get creative in the kitchen – that's how new recipes are born! So, venture out and try something new, you never know what delicious new dish you might discover.

ingredients and heat until thickened, stirring well to blend. Remove the ham from the pot and trim off all but 1/4 inch of fat. Score the ham well and place it on a rack in a baking pan with the scored side up. Cover with 1/3 of the glaze and bake in a preheated 325 degree oven for 1 hour, basting twice with remaining glaze. Let ham stand approximately 30 minutes before slicing. Note: Do not let the ham cool between the simmering and the baking steps. Simmering the ham in the wine gives it a nice color and delicious taste, eliminating most of the saltiness.

• 1 cup chopped onion

• 2 tablespoons flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 bay leaf

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

Brandy-Glazed Ham

Ingredients:

• 1 10-12-pound smoked ham, bone in

• 6 cups dry red wine

• 6 cups water

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 3/4 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 3 ounces currant, pomegranate, or other tart jelly

• 1/4 cup scotch

• 1/4 cup brandy

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, well packed

Directions:

Place ham in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven with a cover and cover the meat at least halfway with the equal parts of wine and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 2 hours, turning ham after 1 hour to cover the other side with the liquid. In the meantime, in a saucepan combine the remaining

French Carrots With Celery

This next recipe, from the same cookbook, prepares carrots with celery, onion, and bacon for a different twist on an Easter Bunny favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound bacon, diced

• 3 cups peeled and diced young carrots

• 2 cups diced celery

In a heavy 10-12-inch skillet over moderate heat, fry the bacon until crisp. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and drain well on paper toweling. Place the carrots, celery, and onion in the hot bacon drippings and toss lightly over moderate heat until all the fat is absorbed. Sprinkle the flour and salt over the vegetables, mixing in well for a few seconds. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir the bacon bits, bay leaf, and pepper into the vegetable mixture. Place all the vegetables and seasonings in a heavy 2-quart casserole dish and almost cover the vegetables with boiling water (the amount of water will depend on the depth of the dish). Place the casserole, covered, in a preheated 400-degree oven and bake the vegetables for 1 1/2 hours. Remove and discard the bay leaf before serving.

Strawberry Sorbet

Consider that this next recipe using fresh strawberries, will become one of your favorite desserts for Spring and Summer serving.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup water

• 2 pints strawberries, washed and hulled

• 4 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 large egg white at room temperature, beated with 2 tablespoons of sugar until medium stiff

Directions:

In a small saucepan, combine

the sugar and water and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until sugar is completely dissolved, about 2 minutes. Cool to room temperature. Complete the dish by putting strawberries and lemon juice in a food processor fitted with the metal blade and process until smooth. Put puréed strawberries through a sieve into a large bowl and stir in cooled syrup. (Makes about 3 cups of purée). Put strawberry mixture in the bowl of an ice cream machine, and process, following manufacturer's directions, for about 20 minutes. add the egg white and run the ice cream machine until sorbet is ready. Serve in chilled glasses. Makes about 1 quart.

Happy Spring!

Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for The Santa Ynez Valley Star; you can email her at barbiewb@hotmail.com.

Barbie Butz Columnist

Alisal Ranch Announces Guest Chef Lineup and Itinerary For BBQ Bootcamp

Chef Valerie Gordon will be emcee as the hotel welcomes a star-studded roster of culinary talent in May

Staff Report

Santa Ynez Valley’s Alisal Ranch, home to Western hospitality and some of the best BBQ in the West, announces the second iteration of its beloved BBQ Bootcamp experience for 2023 with BBQ Bootcamp: Spring Classic, held from May 7-10. The tri-annual event brings some of the nation’s top chefs and grill masters to the ranch, where they will prepare indulgent barbecue feasts, demonstrate their unique approach to grilling, and share their barbecue secrets, tips, and tricks.

For May’s BBQ Bootcamp: Spring Classic, Alisal Ranch’s Executive Chef Craig Riker will kick off the festivities with a cooking demo teaching guests who to properly cut and prepare steak for the grill, followed by a hands-on opportunity for guests to grill alongside the chefs and an al fresco barbecue dinner featuring local wineries and distilleries. To round out the list of culinary talent, the ranch welcomes:

• Valerie Gordon (Valerie Confections) — The celebrated Los Angeles chocolatier and James Beard finalist cookbook author for 2013’s Sweet, founded Valerie Confections in 2004, and eventually guided the confectionery to become one of the nation’s most highly acclaimed boutique chocolatiers. In addition to MCing the bootcamp, Valerie will also be conducting her own cooking demonstration, sharing recipes and tips to grilling breakfast.

• Paula Disbrowe (Thank You for Smoking)

— The award-winning chef and cookbook author will lead a cooking demonstration, sharing with guests tips for smoke-infused grilling recipes, followed by lunch.

• Burt Bakman (Slab BBQ, Trudy's Underground Barbecue) — The chef behind “LA’s best-kept barbecue secret” and beloved brisket, Burt Bakman returns to the ranch for a cooking demonstration.

• Jordan Kepler (Sasquatch Survival Gear)

— Recognized as one of the Season 8 champions of the History’s Channel’s

“Forged in Fire,” founder Jordan Kepler will lead a one-of-a-kind knife making workshop, guiding guests through the entirety of the process from forging, heat treating, and tempering, to shaping and handle making, for guests to make their own creation to take home.

• Rachel Greenspan & Brendan Smith (Bettina Pizzeria) — The Italy-meets-California local Montecito neighborhood restaurant, celebrated for its farmers market-fresh ingredients and honest, sustainable cooking, will put on a woodfire pizza demo and lunch.

• Joy Culley & Taylor Facha (Solvang Spice Merchant) — Co-owned by this female duo, the local spice shop will guide an

interactive spice blending seminar, where guests will learn about the flavor profiles of various spices and create their own signature spice blends and rubs to take home. In addition to guest chef demos, seminars, and meals, BBQ Bootcamp attendees will also be treated to daily breakfast with a build-your-own bloody mary bar, a horseback or haywagon ride to Alisal’s beloved Old Adobe, a cocktail-making class with the ranch’s talented mixology team, and s’mores and cocktails underneath the stars to round out the experience.

Starting at $1,320 per night for double occupancy, the adults-only, multi-day package experience includes:

• Western-themed accommodations for two

or three nights

• All meals and specialty dinners, including a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

• Demonstrations on grilling methods, equipment, BBQ, spice blending, and more

• Special event keepsakes

• Hay wagon ride to the historic adobe for breakfast

The final iteration of the experience this year will be “BBQ Bootcamp: World BBQ” on Oct. 15-17, with the guest chef lineup to be announced. For more information visit alisalranch.com/experiences/bbq-bootcampspring-classic or contact guest services at (800) 425-4725.

Meat cooks on the grill during the Alisal Ranch's BBQ Bootcamp in 2022. This year's edition, BBQ Bootcamp: Spring Classic, will be held from May 7-10. Contributed Photo

Majestic Orcas Grace Monterey Bay: A Rare Encounter with the CA140 Pod

of the other orcas in the pod, an array of seabirds circling above.

By Chuck Graham

There was no denying the 6-foottall dorsal fin cutting through the open ocean above the Soquel Canyon State Marine Conservation Area within the teeming waters of Monterey Bay, along the Central California Coast. Black and steeple-shaped, the dorsal fin belonging to a mature, male orca glistened in the morning sun. This apex predator is known as Ben. A quarter mile off the bow of the whale watching boat his plume of mist shot out of his spout as did the rest

There were four orcas in all, and Ben’s mother was on hand as well. Her name is Emma. The other two orcas were her offspring, and as of this writing it is not known if they are males or females and thus far, they are unnamed. They are part of an orca pod known as CA140. Orca culture is that of a matriarchal society. The moms rule the roost, and their sons stay with their mothers their whole lives. They are mamma boys.

Wanderers

There are no resident orca pods in Central and Southern California. Resident pods rely on a specific food source like salmon. Instead, transient pods maraud the offshore waters feasting on whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions. They travel constantly in search of marine mammals, and

sightings of orcas in the Santa Barbara Channel do not happen often. Whereas in Monterey Bay they are seen frequently.

Monterey Bay is sometimes referred to as a “Pelagic Serengeti”. That is due to the super deep, underwater canyon inside the bay reaching 1000 – 6000 feet down. Cold upwelling currents stirred by consistent northwest winds swirl upward towards the surface carrying tons of zooplankton and phytoplankton, satiating a throng of pelagic species. Therefore, food is aplenty for predators like orcas that reign at the top of the food web.

Emma and her pod were not hunting when we came across them. They were merely surfacing and moving at a gradual pace, slicing southward through the calm waters like a porpoise.

The last time I saw Emma and her pod was two years prior in the Santa Barbara Channel. I was returning from Santa

Cruz Island after several days of guiding kayak trips through toothy sea caves. So, whenever traveling to and from the islands there’s always a slim chance of experiencing something amazing.

Emma was with her younger brother Liner. He was born in 1990 and is 32 years old. Emma was born in 1981. She is 41 years old. The pod was traveling through choppy seas to the west, perhaps out to Point Bennett on San Miguel Island, where the largest seal and sea lion congregation in the world takes place.

Female orcas in the wild can reach 75 to 100 years old. Males generally live 50 to 70 years old. Generally, males don’t do as well after a mother passes.

CKWP

The California Killer Whale Project (CKWP) is a nonprofit devoted to all thing’s orca, including their complex life

The male orca know as Ben emerges from the waters of the Soquel Canyon State Marine Conservation Area at Monterey Bay. Photos by Chuck Graham

Transient orcas enchant whale watchers as they glide through the rich waters of California’s Central Coast

histories and conservation up and down the California Coast. The nonprofit has taken the responsibility of archiving documentation dating back to the 1950s and continuing the collection of data with their commitment to those transient orcas.

To identify pods and individuals within those groups. biologists look for blemishes in their white eye and saddle patches, and on their impressive dorsal fins. For example, Emma from the CA140s, possesses an E-shaped notch on the backside of her dorsal fin. Another male orca from the CA51s is known as Bumper, a proper name for an orca with a noticeable bump or warble in his dorsal fin.

The CKWP gathers their data from scientists, naturalists, photographers, fishermen, and the like. They observe each pod’s travels and behaviors and document their lives in the offshore waters off the coast.

I remember back in 2012 photographing the CA51s in the East Santa Barbara Channel off Santa Cruz Island. It was before 11 am. By the end of the day the CA51s had gathered on the southeast side of Point Bennett where an abundant food

source awaits any predator. There are six different species of pinnipeds that utilize that active, year-round rookery smack dab in the middle of the California Current.

Stealthy Cetaceans

There were several whale watching vessels enjoying Emma and members of the CA140s that early November day in Monterey Bay. The pod seemed to be in no big hurry to hunt. Instead, they basked in the sun while constantly changing directions.

They would surface, and then stay down for several moments before revealing themselves with their majestic spout, plumes wafting skyward on the immediate horizon. The boats would then maneuver carefully toward the pod keeping a safe distance not to disturb them.

Arguably, the most intelligent mammal on the planet, when orcas don’t want to be seen or socialize, they can ghost a flotilla of whale watching boats like no other cetacean. From bow to stern, every passenger on each boat kept an eye, but the CA140s had vanished from view in the dark depths of Monterey Bay.

Whale watchers on the boat observe one of the orcas in Monterey Bay.

A couple of orcas are seen emerging from Monterey Bay. A total of four of the marine mammals were seen that day at the Soquel Canyon State Marine Conservation Area.

“I started playing soccer at the age of 3 or 4, then came basketball and dance at the Los Olivos Dance Gallery from the age of 5 until the day I started high school,” said Robles. “I started cheerleading at 6 years of age, cheering for the Youth Football League and continued until my senior year in high school.”

Robles earned All American Cheerleader honors in 2022 and attended the London New Year’s Day Parade in England.

“That was an amazing adventure,” she said. “I walked with about 500 other cheerleaders from across the United States. We performed at various areas along the parade route. It was a lot of fun.”

Robles started golfing at the age of 8, and last year she was able to play on the SYHS golf team.

“In my freshman year of high school, I started doing track and field,” said Robles. “Last season, Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation provided new pole vaults and high jump pits at the high school. It was amazing for us because we had some pretty old pits and Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation provided a better facility for us to use.”

At 14, Robles started trap shooting at the Santa Ynez Valley Sportsmen’s Association which is located above the dam off Highway 154.

“I am still currently trap shooting with their youth program which is also sponsored by Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation,” said Robles.

After graduation, Robles plans on attending the University of Hawaii this fall to study nursing.

“I’ve always liked helping people and the thought of becoming a nurse seemed like a good career choice for me,” she said. “My goal is to be a labor delivery nurse.”

Robles has also been in 4-H since the age of 8 and has raised many different animals, including goats, sheep, rabbits, pigs, and turkeys.

“I loved having the baby goats born at home because there is nothing better than a baby goat,” she said.

This year Robles is one of the 10 girls who will be recognized at the National Charity League’s Senior Recognition event in Los Olivos.

Robles is the daughter of Deb and Martie Robles. She has two siblings, brother Ygna-

sio and sister Charlotte.

“I’m so excited to be able to represent our Valley as this year’s Santa Ynez Valley Youth Rec Queen,” said Robles. “I’m grateful for the opportunity that has been presented to me to support Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation and would like to see more people get involved with this great organization.”

Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation was

started in 1955 with the intention of raising money to build a pool at the high school. The pool was completed in 1965 and Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation has raised over $3 million in the past 68 years for local youth programs and facilities and has funded many projects at Santa Ynez High, fields at local elementary and middle schools, and the volleyball, baseball, and soccer fields at Sunny Fields Park, among other accomplishments.

“Our Queen Campaign will start on Sunday, April 30, at River View Park in Buellton. This event has always taken place at Nojoqui Park, since 1958," said Frank Kelsey, Queen chairman of the Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation. "Unfortunately, Nojoqui has taken a big hit from this year's storms and is not able to be used, so we are combining our Kick Off and our Park Barbecue into one big event at River View Park in Buellton, which is a great facility for this type of event.”

That opening event will start at noon and feature a chicken barbecue for $15 for adults and $10 for kids, followed by an auction and other fundraising events.

The annual Luncheon at Gainey Winery will be held at 11:30 a.m., Monday, May 15. This year's theme is “Wild, Wild West,” with a table decorating and best dressed contests. The price for the luncheon is $25, and tickets sell out quickly.

On Friday, May 19, New Frontiers Market in Solvang will be sponsoring our Queen with their “5% Friday,” in which five percent of sales will be donated to the Queen Campaign.

Please note: The final event at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall has been moved from Friday, May 26, to Friday, June 2, starting with cocktails at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. with an auction and fundraising events to follow. The price for dinner is $15 for adults and $10 for kids.

For more information on Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation, or information on attending the events or donating to Gabriela’s campaign, visit syvyouthrec.org

You can visit with Santa Ynez Valley Youth Rec Queen Gabriela Robles, at the opening event of the SYV Youth Rec Queen campaign, which stars at 12 p.m. Sunday, April 30, at River View Park in Buellton. Contributed Photo

CALENDAR

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

THURSDAY, APRIL 20

BUELLTON PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

Solvang Design Review Committee, 5 p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

MONDAY, APRIL 24

SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL, 6:30 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26

LOS ALAMOS COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT, 6 P.M.

At LACSD Board Room, 82 Saint Joseph Street, Los Alamos

For more info: losalamoscsd.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 27

BUELLTON CITY COUNCIL, 6 P.M.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

MONDAY, MAY 1

SOLVANG PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, MAY 2

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, 9 A.M.

At County Administration Building, Fourth Floor, 105 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara

For more info: countyofsb.org

NOTE: The Santa Barbara will be conducting budget workshops April 18, 19, and 21.

MONDAY, APRIL 24

SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL, 6:30 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

EVENTS

FRIDAY, APRIL 21

MOTHER AND SON LUAU, 5:30 TO 8 P.M.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Pizza dinner (included) at 6:30 p.m. Each ticket comes with a pizza dinner (no substitutions, discounts, special pricing). Tickets will sell out (and WON'T be sold at the door); buy now by calling (805) 688-PLAY or online: cityofsolvang.com/300/Mother-Son-Luau

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

NEIGHBORHOOD CLEAN-UP DAY, 9 A.M.

Solvang Parks and Recreation is holding a neighborhood clean-up day! Let's all take pride in our community and help remove trash and debris, and make paths clean, safe and enjoyable! Meet at the Vets Hall Parking Lot from 9 to 9:30 a.m. to check-in and get assigned location. Materials will be provided: trash bags, gloves, etc. Bring the whole family and help celebrate Earth Day by helping clean up our community.

At Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall (checkin), 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

Painting in the Vineyard at Kaena Winery, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Are you looking for something unique to do in Santa Barbara County Wine Country?

Why not join us at the picturesque Kaena at the Ranch in Solvang to grab a glass of wine and a paintbrush? Not just another paint and sip class, this is a full-sensory experience. Our painting in the vineyard classes provide a beautiful, stress-free environment that will both inspire your creative spirit and indulge the wine-lover in you. No previous painting experience necessary. Cost is $85 per person, which includes a tasting of Kaena wine and all the supplies necessary to create your landscape masterpiece.

At Kaena at the Ranch, 800 E Hwy 246 Solvang, CA 93463

For more info: info@artspotonwheels.com; (805) 990-2105

DIGITAL ART WORKSHOP, 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M.

Combining physical painting and digital media is really powerful. Step into the world of digital painting and receive easy-to-understand, step-by-step gudiance to develop your own personal tool set. Instructor and gallery owner Masha Keating has been a

professional artist for over 30 years and has taught her digital processes through Kline Academy of Fine Art in Los Angeles. She is a featured artist on Procreate.com and is eager to share her deep knowledge of digital tools with you. Workshop is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., fee is $235, and lunch is included.

At Masha Keating Gallery, 3549 Sagunto Street, Santa Ynez

SATURDAY, APRIL 29

WEDNESDAYS SOLVANG FARMERS MARKET, 2:30 TO 6 P.M.

Each week, the farmers in the marketplace display a colorful bounty of agricultural products grown right in our backyard. Seasonal diversity is available year-round rain or shine. Come. Shop. Socialize. Certified — the only way to buy! Join us in downtown Solvang every Wednesday on First Street, between Mission Drive (Highway 246) and Copenhagen Drive.

Wine Wednesdays, 4 to 8 p.m.

Please join us for an evening out with family fun for all hosted by Esfuerzo Wines and The Birria Boyz. This event will take place each Wednesday 4pm-8pm beginning March 1, 2023. Each week we will have guest food vendors, live music and much more to be announced. We hope to see you there!

At 140 Industrial Way, Buellton

SPRING PEDDLER FAIRE, 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M.

Free admission. Don’t miss the second Spring Peddler Faire in Buellton. Our community has incredible artistic talent and we want to give local artisans another opportunity to sell their fine handmade crafts. We are seeking all kinds of vendors, including those specializing in industrial arts such as metal or woodwork, etc. Spaces are $20 (max two spaces per person) and available via registration on our website (buelltonrec.com) starting March 1. At Riverview Park, 151 Sycamore Drive, Buellton

For more info: Buellton Rec, 805-688-1086

ONGOING

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS STORYTIME AT SOLVANG LIBRARY, 10:30 A.M., TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAY

Starting Oct. 18, Storytime is moving inside and expanding to both Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.

Come to enjoy songs, stories, movement, and a warm welcome. Please make a reservation at www.cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valley-library

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: Solvang Library (805) 688-4214

SPORTS AND RECREATION ONGOING

PICKLEBALL, TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS 6:30 TO 8:30 P.M.

Pickleball — part Ping-Pong, part badminton, lots of momentum — is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. The games can be fast-paced and deliver a good workout. 2 person teams/ or singles. All are welcome!

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

DROP-IN ADULT BASKETBALL, YEAR ROUND, MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS 6 TO 7:15 A.M.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

OPEN BASKETBALL, ONGOING, MONDAYS, 7:30 TO 9:30 P.M.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

FOR INFO ON THESE AND OTHER PROGRAMS, GO TO BUELLTONREC.COM

The Spring Peddler Faire gives local artisans another opportunity to sell their fine handmade crafts. Contributed Photo