Santa Ynez Valley Star • February 18 - March 3, 2025

Los Alamos resident to compete in Butcher Challenge

Ray Williams and team headed for international event dubbed

‘The

Olympics of Meat’

By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

Los Alamos resident Ray Williams has been chosen as one of the participants of Butchers of America’s Team USA, joining with five other members to compete in the World Butcher Challenge (WBC) in France at the end of March. For those unfamiliar, the World Butchers Challenge is known to many as “The Olympics of Meat.”

Butchers of America is a team of butchers that was assembled primarily to compete in the WBC, which started approximately 20 years ago, between Australia and New Zealand. Over the years, the competition grew to incorporate teams from many other countries. This year’s challenge will be held in Paris and will have 18 countries participating.

“I became involved in the WBC in 2022 when the competition was held at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento,” said Williams. “I reached out to the team, and they needed help. I assisted with a couple of practices, and I was the floor manager for the WBC.

“Having been given the opportunity to hang carcasses in an NBA arena was an opportunity of a life-

News | Pg. 6 The books are back: Buellton celebrates opening of its new library

News Briefs .

. Pg. 2

time. I thought I knew a lot about butchery, but with my experience in the ’22 event, I realized there are so many ways other countries do things that it was a great learning experience for me.”

Williams began his long career in butchery at the age of 14 when he was invited to a local custom-exempt butchery in Lompoc with a bunch

of other Future Farmers of America (FFA) kids to help process chickens for the Santa Barbara County Fair.

“I was the only one who showed up,” he said. “I spent the weekend with the butcher, Steve Greco, and his family, and at the end he liked the way I worked and offered me a job.”

A custom-exempt butchery is an establishment where you take ani-

mals you’ve either raised or purchased to be slaughtered and processed.

“I worked for Steve every summer until I was 18, and then I worked for him full-time,” Williams said.

“When I was 19, I started working at the Vandenberg Commissary and worked there for 12 years, ending up being the meat manager. From

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

• Los Padres National Forest revises fire restrictions News .

. Pg. 5

• Buellton to draft letter to county over oil pipeline

Education

Pg. 9

• Santa Ynez High district honors student academic and attendance achievements

Sports Pg. 10

• SYHS basketball, girls soccer teams get past CIF first-round tests

Spotlight

Pg. 12

• Local artist James Iwerks has grown up with the genre Community . . . . . . . . Pg. 14

• Wooden troll, the first in California, makes its debut at California Nature Art Museum

Food & Drink Pg. 15

• Local wine lovers gather at Garagiste Festival’s ‘Southern Exposure’ Calendar

. . . Pg. 16

• Government meetings and events

Members of Butchers of America’s Team USA competing in the World Butchers Challenge at the end of March are (from left) Troy Morgan (team manager), Cora Gains (young butcher), Ray Williams (trimmer), Sierra Jepsen (young butcher), Danny Johnson (U.S. judge/president), Mitch Willis (value added), Etana Diaz (trimmer), Paul Carras (captain/trimmer), Mark Madden (trimmer/sausage), and Nathan Bingham (breaker) Contributed Photo

NEWS BRIEFS

SOLVANG

Los Padres National Forest revises fire restrictions

With the continuing potential for a wildland fire start, Los Padres National Forest officials announced that elevated fire restrictions will remain in effect on the Santa Lucia, Santa Barbara, and Ojai Ranger districts. The Monterey and Mt. Pinos ranger districts have received adequate amounts of rainfall to safety lift fire restrictions on those districts.

These restrictions affect the use of campfires, stoves, smoking materials, and internal combustion engines, and will remain in effect until March 31. Effective immediately, the following restrictions will be in effect:

• No open fires, campfires, or charcoal fires will be permitted outside of developed recreation sites or designated Campfire Use Sites, even with a valid California Campfire Permit. Lanterns and portable stoves using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel will be permitted, but only with a valid California Campfire Permit, which can be obtained freeof-charge at any Forest Service office or by visiting readyforwildfire.org. Forest visitors must clear all flammable material for 5 feet in all directions from their camp stove, have a shovel available, and ensure that a responsible person always attends the stove during use.

• Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or a designated Campfire Use Site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared

of all flammable material.

• Internal combustion engines may be operated only on roads or designated trails. This restriction is in effect year-round. Please make sure your engine is tuned, operating properly, and has an approved spark arrester.

• Fireworks — even the “safe and sane” variety — are not permitted at any time or in any location within the forest.

• Recreational target shooting is prohibited within Los Padres National Forest except for the Winchester Canyon Gun Club and Ojai Valley Gun Club, both of which operate under special use permits.

For a list of Developed Recreation Sites and Campfire Use Sites in Los Padres National Forest, or further information regarding Fire-Safe Camping, visit www. fs.usda.gov/main/lpnf/home or contact the U.S. Forest Service district office nearest you.

Stephen B. Palmer joins Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Foundation Board

Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Foundation (SYVCHF) has elected a new member, Stephen B. Palmer, to join the Board of Directors and serve as treasurer.

Palmer received a Bachelor of Arts in business economics with an accounting emphasis from UCSB. He served for 37 years as a certified public accountant at C&D llp in Solvang before retiring in December 2024.

“Steve has always been receptive to contributing to the success of the Santa Ynez Valley,” said Richard Nagler, SYVCHF Board president. “He has shown great in -

sight and willingness to lead, and he will be a great asset to the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Foundation.”

Palmer has been an active participant in the Santa Ynez Valley community for nearly 40 years. He is currently a member of the Solvang Rotary Club and serves on the board of Nature Track Foundation. He has previously served on the boards for Solvang Chamber of Commerce and Friends of the Library and was a founding board member for the Los Olivos School Foundation. He also enjoyed coaching with Pony Baseball and the American Youth Soccer Organization.

“I am honored for this opportunity to join the Board of Directors for SYVCHF,” said Palmer. “My family has decades of personal experience with local Cottage Health providers, including the immediate care provided in the SYVCH emergency room. I’m excited to work with my fellow board members to help ensure SYVCH continues to provide the best possible facilities and high-quality care our residents need and deserve.”

SYVCHF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to develop, manage and channel the community’s financial support on behalf of Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital, thereby serving not only to protect, but also enhance the hospital as a valuable community asset. Since 1978, the Foundation has provided more than $36 million to the hospital in support of critical capital projects, programs and services.

The SYVCH Foundation 2025 Board of Directors are Barbara Anderson; J. Robert Andrews; Charles Chester; Richard Crutchfield; Judith Dale, vice president; Gustavo Dascanio, MD; Jonathan Grunzweig; Charles “C.J.” Jackson; Richard Nagler, president; Steve Palmer, treasurer; Tresha Sell, secretary; and Ernie Zomalt.

For more information about the SYVCHF, visit cottagehealth.org/syvchfoundation.

SANTA YNEZ

Sydney Vogel of Santa Ynez named to Muhlenberg College Dean’s List

A graduate of Dunn School, Sydney Vogel, of Santa Ynez, has been named to the fall 2024 Dean’s List while studying biolo-

gy at Muhlenberg College.

To be eligible for the Dean’s List, Muhlenberg College students must earn a GPA of 3.5 or better while taking three or more course units during a semester.

Founded in 1848, Muhlenberg is a highly selective, four-year residential, liberal arts college in the city of Allentown, Pennsylvania, with nearly 2,000 bachelor’s and master’s degree-seeking students. The college’s curriculum and experiences are designed opens doors to new ideas, discoveries, friendships, and a lifetime of personal and intellectual growth.

Santa Ynez High Alumni Reunion

Luncheon scheduled for April 28

Santa Ynez High’s annual reunion luncheon is being held at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott Hotel in Buellton on Monday, April 28. The event is for those who graduated in 1975 or earlier. (50+ years). The luncheon, featuring chicken/veggie/salads will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with lunch being served at noon.

Cost is $50 per person, with check submitted by March 28th so the Marriott can get a headcount. Email susanbott@aol.com to receive a sign-up sheet or ask any questions.

The idea for and all-class reunion was hatched in 1981 when Ed Christianson and Dennis Fitzgerald (Class of 1931) decided to celebrate their 50th class reunion by having a luncheon with their classmates and spouses. There was 19 in the class. The lunch was a huge success.

The following year (1982), Ed’s wife Dorothy Doty Christianson was celebrating her 50th reunion, when asked what she would like to do, she said she would like to have the lunch also but to include all previous year’s graduates that would like to join them and that started to annual all class luncheon.

VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE

Unarmed Minuteman III test launch scheduled for Feb. 18-19

An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled between 11:01 p.m. on

STAR NEWS

Solvang City Council moves forward on study for controversial development

Public speakers not happy with consultant choice and placement of item on Consent Calendar

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

The Solvang City Council met on Monday, Feb. 10, for its regular meeting, and it was an item on the council’s Consent Calendar that seemed to get the most attention.

Of course, it was a subject that’s been on the minds of citizens speaking out on the non-agenda Public Communication: The “Builder’s Remedy” application to build a 100unit apartment complex on Alamo Pintado and Old Mission Road in Solvang, known as the Wildwood development.

The Consent Calendar item was to approve an agreement with Rincon Consultants, Inc. to prepare an Initial Study and prepare documents for California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliance in connection and start toward an Environmental Impact Report for the total amount not to exceed $252,272.

Public Communication, as usual came before the Consent Calendar, and residents who have repeatedly voiced their opposition to the Wildwood project, objected again on two counts.

The first speaker, Dennis Beebe, expressed his disappointment that the subject was relegated to the Consent Calendar, which are items usually meant to be approved without any discussion and, as he said, “you can’t engage with the public on this, as we would like to.”

Beebe then continued on to his second objection: The choice of consultant for the study up for approval, Rincon Consultants.

“I don’t think the contractor, Rincon, has a good understanding of the scope of the project,” he said, pointing out that Rincon proposes just two parcels of the property, when the development is actually planned for five parcels; and that there were 12 studies Rincon planned for peer review, but Beebe said he couldn’t find those studies in the submitted application.

“So, I don’t think this contract is ready for prime time, and I hope you’ll ask the appropriate questions to resolve my concerns,” he concluded.

Subsequent speakers echoed Beebe’s concerns, all requesting that the item be pulled from the Consent Calendar, and put on the main agenda for a future meeting.

Steve Martin agreed there were many factors lacking in Rincon’s proposal, calling it “incomplete” and saying it “could well decide the fate of Wildwood by setting up an unjustified, improper approval” of the project.

When it came time for the Consent Calendar, council did pull the item (6d) concerning the consulting contract while unanimously passing the other consent items.

Planning Manager Rafael Castillo stated that the approval of the contract is just the next step to move it forward so that the project does eventually go before the council, and ultimately is open to public comment.

“The reality is that this is the next step; we need to meet the requirement to move the project forward,” Castillo said. “The EIR is that avenue. We need to move the project along.” Castillo noted the process would take 9 to 12 months.

Ultimately, Councilmember Mark Infante started a motion to approve the contract, but Martin immediately called for a point of order, saying that council couldn’t pass something

without it being on the discussion agenda. However, Mayor David Brown and Assistant City Attorney Craig Steele said council was well within its rights to vote on the action, pointing out that the public had commented on it, and it had been pulled from the Contest Calendar for discussion by council.

Infante’s motion stood and was seconded by Claudia Orona. The motion passed 4-1 with Councilmember Louise Smith dissenting.

In other business, council listened to a presentation from Management Analyst Olivia Uribe Mutal proposing increased public surveillance in Solvang.

“While we have a very nice town here in Solvang, there has been an influx of crimes: Theft of tourists, vandalism in public bathrooms, gas siphoned from cars,” Uribe Mutal said. “All are crimes of opportunity, but could have been prevented by increase surveillance. I am seeking direction of expansion of video surveillance.”

Uribe Mutal mentioned possibilities like AI and cloud-based systems that would improve and ease search efforts. She said that could include technology like license plate ID cameras,

wi-fi cameras, and drones.

Councilmembers had concerns with cost; when Claudia Orona asked Uribe Mutal the costs, she said it depended on many details of what they might want. That’s why she was requesting direction from council.

Elizabeth Orona expressed concerns about cost and privacy issues, while Infante wondered how much the city really needed license plate ID cameras.

At the end, council instructed Uribe Mutal to get a couple of specific options to study on improving surveillance and they could move on from there.

The meeting started off with an appearance by young Audrey Smith, the Solvang School student who won the honor of being Mayor for a Day. She was introduced by Brown and led the council in the Pledge of Allegiance, and also sat in the mayor’s chair for City Clerk’s presentation on the ins and outs of her job before departing. Brown said she would take tour of city facilities.

The next City Council meeting will be Monday, Feb. 24, at 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 18 and 5:01 a.m., Feb. 19, from north Vandenberg.

The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.

This test is routine and was scheduled years in advance. Consistent with previous test launches, this ICBM test launch will validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system.

In accordance with standard procedures, the United States has transmitted a prelaunch notification pursuant to the Hague Code of Conduct, and notified the Russian government in advance, per our existing bilateral obligations.

For questions regarding the launch window or Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB) range operations, contact SLD 30 Public Affairs at (805) 606-3595 or SLD30.pa.workflow@spaceforce.mil.

For queries regarding the ICBM test launch mission and missile, contact AFGSC Public Affairs at (318) 456-1305 or afgsc.paworkflow@us.af.mil.

SANTA BARBARA

“The Secret Lives of Snakes,” featuring Dr. Emily Taylor, a renowned professor of biological sciences at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) in San Luis Obispo.

The webinar will take place from 12 to 1 p.m. PST on Thursday, Feb. 20.

To join this virtual event, register via the link lpfw.org/snakes-webinar. This seminar is free and open to the public.

This engaging webinar will delve into the hidden world of snakes, offering a fresh perspective on their unique behaviors, ecological roles, and the importance of their conservation.

Taylor is a distinguished professor and the director of the Physiological Ecology of Reptiles Lab (PERL) at Cal Poly, where she leads research focused on the ecology, physiology, and behavior of free-ranging reptiles in Central and Southern California. Since joining the faculty in 2005, Taylor has become a recognized leader in her field. Taylor earned her Ph.D. in Biology from Arizona State University, where she developed an expertise in the environmental physiology of reptiles, including reproductive, endocrine, hydric, and thermal physiology.

As the founder of Project RattleCam (rattlecam.org), Taylor is also a passionate advocate for improving the public perception of snakes, particularly rattlesnakes. Through this community science initiative, she engages the public in monitoring rattlesnake populations, fostering greater respect for these often-misunderstood creatures. In 2024, she published “California Snakes and How to Find Them,” where she combined her passion for rattlesnakes and other legless reptiles to dispel common myths and celebrate the biological traits of California’s snakes. With profiles of nearly 50 species, from the common garter to the elusive Alameda striped racer, the book offers valuable identification tips, handling advice, and insights into their behaviors.

“I’m excited to share the incredible, yet often misunderstood, lives of snakes,” Taylor said. “Snakes play vital roles in maintaining balanced ecosystems, and it’s crucial for us to understand these fascinating creatures.”

ing footage captured from her lab. This is a unique opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of these elusive creatures and the importance of snake conservation.

About Los Padres Forest Watch: Los Padres Forest Watch is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Los Padres National Forest and the surrounding public lands. Through a combination of education, advocacy, and hands-on conservation efforts, we work to protect wildlife, restore ecosystems, and promote sustainable land stewardship.

For more information about Los Padres Forest Watch, visit www.lpfw.org.

Cachuma Lake center to continue ‘Food for Thought’ speakers series March 9

The Neal Taylor Nature Center at Cachuma Lake will host its next installment of its “Food for Thought” speakers series on March 9. The presentation is titled “Planetary Emergencies,” with guest speaker Chancellor Lorne Everett

Dr. Everett will share his experience over 35 years as a chairman within the World Federation of Scientists, headquartered at CERN (home of the Large Hadron Collider) in Geneva, Switzerland. The meetings on nuclear war and planetary emergencies are chaired by the science advisor to the Pope and are held in three repurposed monasteries in Erice, Sicily. Over 124 Nobel Laureates have participated in these meetings including numerous key players in the Manhattan Project.

Everett will present insights into nuclear war, world pollution, plastics, the world water crisis, asteroid impacts, and other Planetary Emergencies. Although the annual meeting in August is held in three monasteries in Sicily, a second meeting is often held in the Pontifical Academy of Sciences in the Vatican. Rare pictures of the pope’s private quarters and gardens will be shown. The pope often sends a letter of welcome to our meetings and has been the keynote speaker.

There will be a meet-and-greet with light refreshments after the presentation.

The County of Santa Barbara, Community Services Department, Parks Division (County Parks) has published the Draft Santa Barbara County Recreation Master Plan, available at Santa Barbara County Recreation Master Plan, additional information on the project can be found at www.sbcrecplan.com. Comments on the Draft Plan are welcome until 5 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 24.

The Recreation Master Plan’s goal is to enhance the quality of life and leisure experience for Santa Barbara County residents of all ages. It fosters new parks, trails, and recreational facilities in unincorporated communities throughout Santa Barbara County in strategic coordination with other public recreation providers in the county, such as cities and special districts.

The county is also preparing a Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to analyze the potential environmental impacts of the Draft Plan.

If you would like to make a comment on the Draft Recreation Master Plan or the scope of the Program Environmental Impact Report please submit your comments by 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, via email to RecPlan@countyofsb.org or mail to Jeff Lindgren, Deputy Director of Parks Division, Community Services Department, Parks Division, 123 East Anapamu St., Santa Barbara.

The Recreation Master Plan is a longrange plan to fund and construct public parks, trails, and facilities to meet recreation needs. The Draft Plan proposes capital improvements, programs, funding, and implementation strategies for the unincorporated area over about 20 years. It includes the proposed Recreation Benefit Project (RBP) Program, allowing private developments to contribute to the public recreation system. The county also proposes amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and zoning ordinances to support the Recreation Master Plan and the RBP Program.

Learn about ‘The Secret Lives of Snakes’ in Zoom webinar

Los Padres Forest Watch is excited to announce a captivating Zoom seminar,

During the webinar, Taylor will share captivating stories from her 25 years of studying snakes around the world, offering a unique perspective on their lives. Taylor’s encounters are brought to life through stunning photographs and videos, includ -

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

Draft Recreation Master Plan published; comment period lasts until Feb. 24

The Draft Recreation Master Plan is the result of over two years of community engagement, with nearly 8,000 survey responses and 86 outreach events. The County thanks all contributors, including the multi-jurisdictional steering committee, local cities, districts, and community partners.

Dr. Emily Taylor, a distinguished professor and the director of the Physiological Ecology of Reptiles Lab (PERL) at Cal Poly, will conduct a Zoom seminar “The Secret Lives of Snakes,” hosted by Los Padres Forest Watch, on Thursday, Feb. 20. Contributed Photo

Buellton City Council votes to take position over pipeline transfer appeal

Transfer of ownership to Sable Offshore could reactivate pipeline running underneath Buellton

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

In its Thursday, Feb. 13, meeting, the Buellton City Council voted to draft a letter of appeal to Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors over the transfer of pipeline permits granted to Sable Offshore by the County Planning Commission.

Vice Mayor Elysia Lewis attended the meeting remotely, with City Manager Scott Wolfe explaining that by emergency Brown Act rules, she would be able to participate in the meeting despite not being there in person.

The County Planning Commission granted the pipeline permits allowing the transfer of the pipeline from Exxon Mobil to Sable Offshore. This would allow Sable to re-activate the pipeline running through the city, subject to other approvals from state agencies. A significant question that remains unanswered is what, if any, testing, repair, or realignment of the existing pipeline will need to be completed to ensure the safety of the pipeline. This question is a central point of the appeal to the Board of Supervisors.

District 1 City Councilmember Hudson Hornick recused himself from the item because of his status as a county employee, so it was up to

“I want to be cognizant of the fact that we need to protect our residents, but I don’t want to cut off my nose to spite my face,” she said. “We get a lot of tax revenue, for our city and our schools, from the products these companies produce.”

Silva said he had concerns about the pipeline through personal experience.

“My No. 1 concern is safety for our city,” he said. “I grew up in Santa Maria’s Sunrise Hills where there were houses built on sumps and caused health problems although they were up to code.

“It gives me pause that we have a pipeline up to code for 1989. It’s not much to ask council to have this position not to have crude oil running though town.”

However, Sanchez said the city should stay out of it.

The City Council will meet next on Thursday, Feb. 27, at 6 p.m.

District 4 Special Election ratified

As part of its Consent Calendar for the Thursday, Feb. 13, meeting, the Buellton City Council passed three items to establish a Special Election for the District 4 council vacancy. The seat became vacant when District 4 City Councilmember David Silva was elected mayor in November.

Silva, Lewis, and District 3 Councilmember John Sanchez to debate the item.

The subject has been raised in previous Buellton City Council meetings by residents Larry Bishop and Len Fleckenstein, who both also spoke at the Feb. 13 meeting.

“What I am hoping what the city will do is appeal to the county and even the state to do whatever they can to stop the startup of this pipeline,” Bishop said. “This remedy is important to us because it goes under our city and is unsafe; there’s a lot of corrosion issues they’re not addressing and haven’t addressed for 35 years.”

Fleckenstein spoke later, encour-

aging the City Council to support the appeal, and also to convince officials to reroute the pipeline around Buellton.

“I ask that the city insist on the oil industry making good on Exxon’s own proposal in 2017 to change the alignment for the pipeline to go around Buellton,” he said. “Residents of the city expected the pipeline to be relocated. The City Council should reject this bait-and-switch scheme by the oil companies.”

Bishop and Fleckenstein were two of four speakers on the item, all of whom supported the appeal of the transfer.

Going back to council, Lewis had mixed feelings about the item.

“I don’t think we should get into this fight,” he said. “For the safety things that happened, they have check valves now. [Sable] is going to be protective as anyone for that. They’re going to take good care of it.”

However, Lewis and Silva both answered that the city should at least make a statement to let people know where they stand.

“What message do we send if we don’t even give our input,” Silva said. “We can’t sit here and there will be no leak. I’d rather take that position, we owe it to our city.”

“I prefer not to take a stance,” Sanchez replied.

Silva eventually made a motion to submit a letter supporting the appeal, and Lewis seconded. The motion passed 2-1, with Sanchez appealing.

The council voted in the Jan. 23 meeting to establish a special election for the seat when the remaining councilmembers deadlocked on appointing to the seat to either Carla Mead or former Mayor Dave King. The election will be mail-in only and take place on Aug. 26 for a partial two-year term. The nomination period will run from May 5 through May 30.

To run for City Council District 4, you must be a registered voter in District 4. The Buellton District Map can be found at cityofbuellton. com/government/district-elections/. To take out candidate papers, please contact City Clerk Linda Reid at lindar@cityofbuellton.com or call (805) 686-7424 to schedule an appointment.

VOTER REGISTRATION

To be eligible to vote at the MailIn Special Election on Aug. 26, you must be registered to vote no later than Monday, Aug. 11. For more information regarding voter registration or to obtain a vote-by-mail ballot, visit countyofsb.org/164/ Elections.

Buellton Mayor David Silva (left), City Councilmember John Sanchez (right) and Vice Mayor Elysia Lewis (upper left on TV screen) debate the item of taking a position on the county pipeline transfer appeal during the Thursday, Feb. 13, meeting. Screenshot from YouTube

The books are back: Buellton celebrates opening of its new library

City and county officials, many residents show up to check out new facility on the old Willemsen property

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

Five years after purchasing the former Willemsen Dairy property for public use, the City of Buellton and its residents got to see a big result of that acquisition on Feb. 8 with the grand opening of the new Buellton Library.

City, county and Goleta Valley Library officials were on hand to usher in the new facility in the refurbished building on 202 Dairyland Road, down the street from River View Park and right next door to the developing Santa Ynez Valley Children’s Museum.

In fact, Ashley Jenkins, the founder and board president for the museum was able to bring out a few games and activities for the kids outside the library, which also had an inflatable slide for entertainment. Also outside the building was a used book sale, a bookmobile from the Isla Vista Library, and staff inside to anwer any questions about the new place.

Leading a quick view of the inside, Buellton City Manager Scott Wolfe pointed out the main area, with the big picture windows offering a view of the hills above the Santa Ynez River, as well as the main conference room that can be divided with a temporary barrier if need be, and a smaller room which will eventually be a store for the Friends of the Buellton Library.

Wolfe said the library was an example of the city trying to expand its focus.

“What I’ve been working on since I’ve been here is going beyond

ceremonial ribbon-cutting in front of the library entrance, with Wolfe and Sierra being joined there by Mayor David Silva, Vice Mayor Elysia Lewis, City Councilmember John Sanchez, and library officials and staff members.

Silva told the crowd to give themselves a round of applause for being able to celebrate the birth of a new library, which came to fruition after being first proposed five years ago.

“This is something our little community can be proud of,” he said. “It feels like you’re invited into someone’s home to come and read a book, sit by the fireplace, and have these wonderful views, and this wouldn’t have been possible without so many people to make this happen.”

In her turn addressing the crowd, Lewis admitted she was skeptical of the library proposal at first.

“I stand very humbled. I don’t know if you guys followed the progression of this library, but I was one of the ones that was like ‘Huh? You’re going to take a house on a ranch and you’re going to make it a library?’” she said.

However, Lewis admitted that the efforts of Sierra and the other proponents of the library proved to be right.

just the basics — filling the potholes, making sure the water turns on — and working more on community amenities,” he said. “Purchasing this [Willemsen] property really enabled us to dream big.”

Wolfe said the location of the new library opens up a new area of activity.

“It’ll really be much more of a social hub, and we will have activities going on in here,” he said. “Also, we have it in a nice neighborhood, and with the proximity to the [River View] park and the upcoming Children’s Museum, the Botanical

Garden, we really have a nice row of facilities here.”

Holly Sierra, the former Buellton mayor, is now the president of the Friends of the Buellton Library organization and has served as a point person of sorts with the project.

“I think this started about three years ago; we decided to have the library here, and we were planning to have it open about a year and a half ago,” Sierra said. “However, they ran into problems with the house that needed to be fixed, and it just kept getting extended.”

Sierra said the former library, lo-

cated on Highway 246 next to the police station and City Council chambers, was closed in September to start the transition, and she is happy the new library is ready.

“I’m just so pleased with it,” she said. “This is, libraries are, the center of the community. People keep saying libraries are a thing of the past, and I couldn’t disagree more.

“I mean, we are planning so many incredible community activities here. We are going to be working with the city to put on some amazing programs.”

The opening culminated in a

“As I stand here this morning, walking in, and seeing it last night, it is stunning,” she said. “And, I could not think of a better way to utilize the property and make it a gem for the city.”

The library is now in operation and open five days a week: Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The library will be closed on Thursday and Sunday.

For more information on the library and its programs and events go to www.goletavalleylibrary. org/about/santa-ynez-valleylibraries or www.facebook.com/ BuelltonLibraries/

(Top) Holly Sierra, former Buellton mayor and president of the Friends of the Buellton Library, and current Buellton Mayor David Silva cut the ribbon Feb. 8 to the entrance of the new Buellton Library on Dairyland Road. (Bottom left) The book stacks are shown at the new Buellton Library on Dairyland Road. (Bottom center) Judith Dale, former Buellton mayor and current 3rd District representative to the County Library Advisory Board, sports an appropriate message on her sweatshirt Feb. 8 during the grand opening of the Buellton Library. (Bottom Right) The main part of the Buellton Library on Dairyland Road includes tables, comfortable chairs, a fireplace, computer terminals, and a scenic views of the adjacent lawns and nearby hills. Photos by Mike Chaldu/SYVS

EDUCATION

Santa Ynez Chumash donate $79K to 10 county schools for technology improvements

College School District, Los Olivos Elementary, and Santa Ynez High among the Technology in Schools recipients

To assist Santa Barbara County schools that are struggling to meet the classroom technology needs of their students, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has donated over $79,000 to 10 area schools that applied for grants through its foundation’s Technology in Schools Program for the 2024-25 school year.

The program encourages Santa Barbara County school administrators and faculty to apply for technology grant dollars to fund specific projects. These grants let schools purchase hardware, upgrade infrastructure, add high-tech resources and boost their curriculum.

The deadline to apply for the 2025-26 school year is April 30, 2025, and all applications must be submitted online at www. chumash.gov/foundation.

This year’s recipients are Vista Del Mar Union School District in Gaviota, College School District in Santa Ynez, Los Olivos Elementary School, Santa Barbara Unified School District, La Colina Junior High School in Santa Barbara, Orcutt Academy High School in Santa Maria, Saint Louis de Montfort Catholic School in Santa Maria, San Marcos High School in Santa Barbara, Lakeview Junior High School in Santa Maria and Santa Ynez Valley Union High School.

“It’s an honor to help enhance the learning experience of potentially thousands of young, learning minds in Santa Barbara County through our Technology in Schools Program,” said Kenneth Kahn, tribal chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “An innovative education is crucial to student engagement and the success of our future generations, and we’re proud to be able to contribute by

for Santa Ynez Valley Union High School. “Thanks to the incredible grant made available by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, it will become a reality! The kids are very excited and even with only word of mouth so far, the interest in the [Esports] league continues to grow and grow. We can’t wait to see how far the students will take this and how well they will do. Thank you again for helping make this a reality.”

Others who received donations from the Chumash include:

• Santa Barbara Unified School District, awarded $10,000 to purchase three digital projectors for its Visual Arts & Design Academy (VADA).

• La Colina Junior High School, awarded $8,500 to purchase and install Promethean interactive display boards for its math classrooms in advance of a new, modern Amplify Desmos Math curriculum to be implemented next year.

• Orcutt Academy High School, awarded $3,000 for library equipment, including a Paragon Chargebar Table, adjustable stools and portable charging stations.

helping put the latest technology in local classrooms.”

Vista Del Mar Union School District in Gaviota was awarded $8,255 and will use this funding to upgrade its existing Chromebooks so students can use the latest applications, access the State Testing Portal and replace uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for consistent internet during power outages.

“Vista is incredibly grateful for the support of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians,” said Bree Valla, superintendent/ principal for Vista Del Mar Union School District. “Their support will allow us to ensure that Vista students have continued access to quality technology and are prepared for the 21st century. Thank you, Chumash for your continued support of our community!”

College School District in Santa Ynez was awarded $9,173.96 and will use this funding to upgrade its STEAM Maker’s Lab by purchasing a 3D printer and an interactive whiteboard.

“We are so excited to be receiving multiple 3D printers from the Technology in Schools Program,” said Anthony Bruemmer, principal for College School District.

“This generosity from the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians goes a long way in our schools by giving enrichment opportunities to our students that would otherwise not be available to them. Thank you so much for giving back to the youth in our community here in Santa Ynez.”

Los Olivos Elementary School was awarded $10,136 to purchase seven MacBooks and AppleCare to better support learning activities conducted on its Promethean interactive display boards.

Santa Ynez Valley Union High School (SYVHS) was awarded $7,000 to fund new hardware, software, accessories and travel expenses to support the launch of its new Esports league.

“Our students at SYVHS have wanted to increase our technology presence and establish an eSports league for some time now,” said David Kirkhart, science teacher

• Saint Louis de Montfort Catholic School, awarded $9,500 to purchase new laptops and TI-84 graphing calculators.

• San Marcos High School, awarded $5,500 to purchase two Cannon EOS R6 digital cameras, 15 SD cards and an iPad Pro.

In 2015, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians donated the proceeds from its annual charity golf tournament to four local schools in the form of technology grants. Inspired by the success of those grants, the tribe’s leadership created the Technology in Schools Program through its foundation to help fulfill the hightech needs of classrooms in Santa Barbara County. Since its inception, the program has issued more than $550,000 in grants to area schools.

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has donated more than $30 million to hundreds of groups, organizations and schools in the community and across the nation as part of the tribe’s long-standing tradition of giving.

Staff Report

(From left) Josh Vaca Velasco (vice president), Ash Hicks (president), Jackson O’Donnell (member), Erin Letts (member), and faculty advisor David “Mr. K” Kirkhart are forming an esports club on campus. The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians donated $7,000 to SYHS to support the launch of the on-campus club as part of $79,000 worth of donations to Santa Barbara County Schools. Photo Courtesy of David Kirkhart

Santa Ynez High district honors student academic and attendance achievements

Teacher of the Year and Classified Employee of the Year also named by district

Report

The Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District recently hosted its annual Fall Academic Recognition ceremony, celebrating the exceptional achievements of its students. The ceremony, held during the Winter Sports Rally, highlighted the district’s commitment to fostering academic excellence, improvement, and consistent attendance among its student body.

A standout moment of the event was the presentation of the Most Improved Student Award to Diana Ortega Campos. Diana demonstrated remarkable dedication, raising her GPA by the highest number of grade points from the spring semester to the fall semester. Beyond academics, Diana’s improved attendance and discipline have made her a role model for perseverance and determination. “Congratulations, Diana, on your hard work and dedication!” said ASB Co-President Grace Velasquez.

Academic excellence was on full display as 171 students were recognized for achieving a GPA of 4.0 or higher. Each of these outstanding students received a Santa Ynez sweatshirt as a token of appreciation for their dedication and success. “Congratulations to all 171 students for your unwavering commitment to academic achievement!” remarked ASB Director Mr. Rob Cantrell.

The district also honored 135 students who earned GPAs between 3.5 and 3.9. These students, celebrated for their hard work and dedication, were awarded long-sleeved Pirate T-shirts. “Your dedication to maintaining strong academic performance is truly commendable,” ASB Co-President Sophia Merz shared during the ceremony.

Attendance is a cornerstone of student success, and 459 students were acknowledged for achieving an impressive 95 percent attendance rate. Each of these students received a Pirate Trucker hat as a reward for their commitment to consistent participation in their education. “Thank you for showing up and making the most of your learning opportunities,” said District Superintendent/SYHS

Principal Dr. Kimberly Sheehan.

The Fall Academic Recognition ceremony underscores the district’s dedication to nurturing a culture of excellence and resilience. The event served as a heartfelt tribute to the hard work of students, teachers, and families who contribute to the district’s vibrant learning community. Congratulations to all honorees for their exceptional accomplishments!

Santa Ynez High School Announces 2025 Teacher of the Year: Mrs. Melanie Dickey

Santa Ynez High School is proud to announce Mrs. Melanie Dickey as the 2025 Teacher of the Year, an honor voted on by her peers in recognition of her exceptional contributions to education and her unwavering dedication to her students.

Described by colleagues and former students as “the educator I always aspire to be,” Dickey embodies the qualities of a truly outstanding teacher. Her thoughtfulness and reflective approach to teaching set her apart. She consistently develops meaningful relationships with her students, motivating them to achieve their best in her class and beyond.

One former student and current teacher shared, “If I did not have her in my freshman year of high school, I honestly believe I would not have found confidence in my abilities in

English. I probably never would have majored in English or become a teacher. She has always been one of my greatest role models.”

Dickey’s dedication extends far beyond the classroom. She invests countless hours in designing thoughtful and engaging lessons that adapt to meet students where they are. She holds her students to rigorous standards, ensuring they strive for excellence, while providing the support and flexibility they need to succeed.

Her colleagues praise her as a wonderful teammate who is always quick to help, support, and offer advice. One staff member remarked, “She creates a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to thrive. Her passion for English is contagious, inspiring and motivating her students to reach their full potential.”

Congratulations, Mrs. Dickey, on being named the 2025 Santa Ynez High School Teacher of the Year!

Santa

Ynez High School Announces 2025 Classified Employee of the Year: Mrs. Maria Garcia

Santa Ynez High School is proud to recognize Mrs. Maria Garcia as the 2025 Classified Employee of the Year. This honor, voted on by her colleagues, highlights her extraordinary

contributions and unwavering commitment to the school’s success and the well-being of its students and families.

Garcia is described as the backbone of Santa Ynez High School, seamlessly managing countless responsibilities with grace and dedication. Her ability to keep everything running smoothly while maintaining a deep understanding of each student’s needs makes her an invaluable member of the school community.

One of Garcia’s most significant contributions is her role as a bridge for families who do not speak English. Through her work as a translator and advocate, she ensures that every family feels seen, heard, and supported. Her guidance has made a lasting impact, empowering families to actively participate in their students’ education.

Garcia wears many hats at Santa Ynez High School, from translating and working with families to coordinating substitutes and supporting school events like football games. Her colleagues describe her as a “trooper” who handles every responsibility with kindness and efficiency. Her caring approach to interacting with students and families sets a standard of excellence for all.

Congratulations, Mrs. Garcia, on being named the 2025 Santa Ynez High School Classified Employee of the Year!

(Left) Santa Ynez High ninth-grader Andrea Garcia Zepeda (left) 10th-grader Kiera Stufkosky are shown on campus. (Right) The Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District recently named Maria Garcia (left) as Classified Employee of the Year, and Melanie Dickey as Teacher of the Year. Contributed Photos

SPORTS

Three Santa Ynez High teams get past CIF first-round tests

Boys basketball, girls soccer off to play top division seeds this week in the second round

By Mike Chaldu

michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

Santa Ynez High winter sports teams had a successful weekend to start the CIF Central Section postseason on Feb. 14 and 15, as the girls basketball, girls soccer and boys basketball squads all earned firstround wins.

Pirates boys hoops gets by Lemoore

After winning the Sunset League with a perfect 8-0 record, the Santa Ynez boys hoopsters earned an eighth seed in Division III and hosted No. 9 Lemoore in its first-round game on Feb. 15.

The Pirates rode a strong fourth period to a 55-52 win over the Tigers for their 11th straight win. The game was a tight one through the first three quarters as SYHS held a 37-36 lead going into the last period. In the fourth, the Pirates rallied to open up as much as a 10-point lead before a late Lemoore run made it close at the end.

Jude Pritchard, the Pirates’ top scorer for the season at 15.9 points per game, put in a teamhigh 17 points against Lemoore, while Jaydon Mendoza added 11. Lucas Ollenburger, who had a key three-pointer in the fourth period of the playoff game, ended up with 8 points and 7 rebounds, while Ikenna Ofiaeli had 9 points and a team-high 9 rebounds.

“It was a heck of a matchup,” head coach Rod Caughell said about the contest. “I was concerned going in because they’re strengths tend to be our weak -

nesses, but we were able to break their press, and hit some big 3’s to pull it out.”

The Pirates now get an even bigger test in the second round, facing No. 1 seed Bakersfield North on Wednesday, Feb. 19.

The Stars finished 24-6 and placed second in the South Yosemite Mountain League with a 7-1 record. Game time in Bakersfield is 6 p.m.

Girls hoops handles Pioneer Valley

The Santa Ynez High girls basketball team, after finishing third in the Sunset League with a 5-5 record (15-10 overall), earned the No. 2 seed in the Division IV bracket and in its first-round game on Friday, Feb. 14, defeated nearby No. 15 seed Pioneer Valley 52-33.

The Lady Pirates defeated the Jaguars from Santa Maria with a balanced attack, as Kailani Ladera scored a team-high 11 points,

along with 8 rebounds, and Lexi Molera added 10 points and 5 steals. Helina Pecile totaled 9 points, 5 rebounds and 5 steals, while Elena Sleiman pulled down a team-high 14 rebounds.

“The girls came out strong tonight,” said head coach Jennifer Rasmussen, whose team made it to the second round of the postseason for the third straight year.

SYHS will return to the Pirate gym Tuesday, Feb. 18, for its next game, against No. 7 seed Coalinga at 5 p.m. Coalinga, known as the Horned Toads, finished 24-5 with an 8-2 record (second place) in the West Sierra League.

Girls soccer overpowers Sierra Pacific

The Santa Ynez High girls soccer team finished the regular season with a 7-9-2 record and 2-51 in the Sunset League, placing third. The Lady Pirates were one of four Sunset team to be placed in the Division III bracket.

In its first-round game, the No. 8 seed Pirates excelled with a 4-0 victory over No. 9 Sierra Pacific of Hanford on Saturday, Feb. 15, at SYHS.

Ella Gotschall, Grace Vazquez, Isabella Rubio, and Hannah Ricci scored for SYHS.

“Everything just came together tonight,” said head coach Rob Cantrell. “We’re good at generating opportunities, but we’ve haven’t finished them in recent games. Tonight, we did.”

The win moves the Lady Pirates to a second-round matchup on Wednesday, Feb. 19, with a familiar opponent — Sunset League rival and No. 1 seed Santa Maria. The Saints won the league with a 7-1 record, and were an impressive 20-2-2 record overall.

The Saints have beaten the Pirates twice this season, 5-1 decision in Santa Maria, and 3-1 at Santa Ynez earlier this month.

“They’re going to be tough, and they’re definitely a No. 1, but I

don’t worry about seeds, we just play whoever comes against us,” Cantrell said. “They handled us pretty well at their place, but we played them pretty tough in our second match, so you never know.”

Game time Wednesday at Santa Maria High will be 6 p.m.

Boys soccer finishes second in Sunset League

The SYHS boys soccer team ended its season with a 2-1 loss to Lompoc, with Jackson Elliott tallying to lone Pirate goal.

The Pirates finished with a 3-32 record in the Sunset League, placing second, and a 5-12-3 record overall. They did not receive a postseason berth.

For the season, Elliott was the top scorer with 7 goals and 14 points. Marcos Rivera tallied 6 goals with an assist for 13 points, and Evan Ellason had 3 goals and a team-high 3 assists for 9 points. In goal, Diego Medina had an 0.863 goals against average.

(Left) Santa Ynez High’s Lucas Ollenburger hits a key three-pointer in the fourth period of the Pirates’ 55-52 win over Lemoore in a first-round CIF Central Section playoff game on Saturday, Feb. 15. (Right) Santa Ynez High soccer player Ella Gotschall faces off against a Sierra Pacific defender in the teams’ first-round CIF Central Section playoff matchup on Feb. 15. Gotschall scored one of the Lady Pirates’ goals in a 4-0 win over the Golden Bears. Photo by Mike Chaldu/SYVS

Santa Barbara Community Rowing experiences success at Long Beach President’s Day Regatta

Cachuma Lake-based rowing program offering summer camps and Learn to Row programs

Staff Report

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara

Community Rowing’s junior racing team enjoyed a strong start to their 2025 spring racing season, finishing with notable wins at the President’s Day Invitational Regatta in Long Beach on Feb. 1.

Diego Stephenson, a Dunn school junior, brought home gold in the Youth Men’s Single, which is a testament to his hard work and focus, said Coach Gracie Barbara.

SBCR, winning the Youth Women’s Double. Dingman and Loya finished seventh in the nation at the 29th Annual USRowing Youth National Championships in Florida last year, and appear to be on track to reprise another successful racing season this year.

Equally as exciting was the debut race for SBCRs five new novice rowers, who took silver in Men’s U15 Quad. They include brothers William and Campbell Allen, (Goleta Valley Junior High), John Asher (Laguna Blanca), Finn McCauley (Montecito Academy), and Aidan Chase (Montecito Academy).

looking for more middle and high schoolers,” Barbara continued. “Rowing is still relatively unknown in Santa Barbara County, but it’s a great community; we row on a beautiful lake; and our kids are fast. What more do you need? And a lot of these kids will go on to row in college, so it’ll be fun to see what the future holds for them.

“There’s a lot of potential here to build a bigger, top-tier junior team, and I’d love to see our program grow to 20 or 30 kids out on the water all together.”

“He’s picked up a lot of speed this year,” Barbara said. “The youth category is tough and Diego has been putting in extra work outside of our scheduled practice, and it’s great to see it showing in his results. We’re all really happy for him and excited to see what he can do the rest of the season.”

SBCR’s Jacie Dingman, a Santa Ynez High School freshman, came home with gold, winning the U17 Women’s Single.

And then Dingman and her longtime doubles partner, Elsa Loya (homeschooled and Classical Resource Learning Center junior) added another gold medal to the tally for

As Barbara said, “Their success is noteworthy because this is the first time these kids have raced together in this lineup, and it can be intimidating, especially when their average age is 2 years younger than their competitors. These are 12- and 13-year-olds going up against some 13- and 14-year-olds, which is tough. But they worked together and came away with a terrific result. And I hope it inspires other kids to join their ranks.”

“We are still a small team and we are always

Barbara herself rowed in high school and college and knows that rowers are admired for their discipline, work ethic, and leadership skills. Santa Barbara Community Rowing is the only rowing organization in Santa Barbara County, based at Cachuma Lake. If you are interested in donating to the club, or learning more about rowing, SBCR offers summer camps for youth ages 11 and over, as well as Learn to Row programs throughout the year for adults and kids. For more information visit www.rowsbc.org/

Coach Gracie Barbara (far left) is shown with some of the members of Santa Barbara Community Rowing’s junior racing team on Feb. 1 at the President’s Day Invitational Regatta in Long Beach. Photo Courtesy of Santa Barbara Community Rowing

John

Iwerks was raised by a Disney employee, co-founded the Oak Group, and has done many projects with wife and fellow artist Chris Chapman

By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

John Iwerks has an insatiable artistic curiosity, a multifaceted artist with a love of natural landscapes. He is a graphic artist, geological illustrator, landscape painter, muralist, artist focused on geology, art teacher, stone sculptor, children’s book illustrator, chalk pavement artist, T-shirt graphic designer, and ceramic artist.

Additionally, he is a founding member of the Oak Group, a group of artists who, through their art, draw attention to the beauty of endangered landscapes and the need for their protection. He and his wife, artist Chris Chapman, were managers of the Arroyo Hondo Preserve, where they lived in an old adobe and painted the scenic views of the Gaviota Coast.

Iwerks was born and raised in Burbank, California, surrounded by art.

“I grew up in an artistic family,” said Iwerks. “My dad, Don, worked for Disney as the head of the machine and camera shop and was the recipient of an Academy Award for Lifetime Technical Achievement in the film industry. He created many of the filming innovations that were used by Disney Studio. My aunt Carlene painted, my uncle David was a portrait photographer, my sister Leslie is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, my brother Larry is a gifted landscape painter, and my grandfather, Ub Iwerks, created Mickey Mouse with Walt Disney in 1928.”

“We grew up around the Disney studio. You could use any bike that was available and cruise in the studio,” Iwerks recalled. “We’d sometimes go into the back areas where they were working on audio animatronics and watch them adjust the box that had knobs labeled ‘mouth,’ ‘shoulders,’ ‘eyeballs,’ etc. that animated the figures.”

Iwerks explained that as a kid he did cartoons and made stories out of them, “which was always fun.” He also said that in junior high he had a teacher who was very interested in what he was doing, making caricatures of the other students, and was encouraged to hang them on the wall.

After high school, he moved to Santa Barba-

Local artist has grown up with the genre

ra in 1973, where he met his mentor, landscape artist Ray Strong. Strong was a force in the California art world for 75 years, passing away in 2006. As an art educator, he taught hundreds of students over nearly six decades and helped establish several art schools, organizations, and art galleries.

“I was too late to sign up for City College but not too late for the Santa Barbara Art Institute. It was there that I met Ray Strong, who taught landscape painting,” Iwerks said. “I clicked with him. He was very supportive of young people. He would emphasize that you learn geology, so I started taking classes in geology at City College. We’d go on field trips to places like Death Valley and Cuyama and draw. I was out here in the sunshine in my shorts painting pictures for college credits!”

Iwerks also painted in his free time.

“In the ‘70s, my friends, my brother Larry, and I would take painting trips. We’d go to the desert and paint. We’d do a painting in the morning and another in the afternoon,” he said. “In some cases, we wouldn’t move for more than two miles before we camped again to paint some more. And we kept painting.”

In the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, Iwerks worked for two different animation companies in Santa Barbara: Big Blue Marble and Animated Cartoon Productions (ACP).

“Ray Strong was the founder of Gallery 113, the first cooperative gallery in Santa Barbara,” he explained. “I started putting my paintings in there, then entered the Santa Barbara Art As-

sociation. Later I got into rock sculpture, carving them into shapes of animals.”

In 1986, Strong and Arturo Tello germinated an idea to start a painting group of seven artists, which included James and Larry Iwerks. It was called the Oak Group.

“We decided that there were a lot of landscapes in Santa Barbara that were being developed, so we tried to fight artistically to preserve these areas,” said Iwerks. “The first Oak Group show was called ‘Endangered Landscapes.’ The first show was very successful. We gave 50 percent of the proceeds to environmental groups that were fighting overdevelopment.

“We began with the Wilcox property on the Mesa above Arroyo Burro Beach, which was successful. At first the city approved the development, but the developers didn’t follow the timing of the development, so they reneged on their contract and couldn’t develop. The whole city had a fundraising event, and Mi-

chael Douglas came in and helped purchase the property, and it was given to the city. Another show was called ‘Vanishing Views.’

“On Santa Cruz Island, we worked as volunteers painting and had a show to exhibit the preserved land and donated 50 percent of the money to the Nature Conservancy.”

They have done 14 shows for the Land Trust of Santa Barbara County. Their next show will be in May. It is focusing on the protection of the remaining 27 endangered acres of Carpinteria Bluffs. It will be held at the Faulkner Gallery in the Santa Barbara Central Library.

Oak Group contributes visually, bringing attention to places that are endangered by development. Collectively the group has raised over $3 million for environmental preservation. The Oak Group started with seven artists and now has 26 members.

“We’ll be celebrating our 40th anniversary next year,” said Iwerks. “Several people from the original seven are still in the group.”

Iwerks has done works all over the Central Coast.

“I did a mural at the Carrizo Plain National Monument. I did the illustration on the panels around the room at the Visitors Center,” he said. “I also did a permanent installation of a mural at the California Nature Art Museum of a valley oak habitat.”

Iwerks also painted the logo for the City of Solvang and did geologically themed T-shirt drawings for the Geology Department at Santa Barbara City College. In the early ‘90s he began teaching landscape painting classes through Santa Barbara City College’s adult education program.

His current classes focus on the Santa Ynez Valley. His first class will be at the Mission. His classes of 35 students last three hours. He does a demonstration for the first hour, and then he goes around to the students individually and educates and answers questions.

He and his wife recently completed five donated 30-inch x 40-inch paintings for Sansum Country Clinic in Solvang.

Iwerks has been married to fellow artist Chapman for 25 years.

“I feel fortunate that we work well together and we like the same things and that we are able to collaborate on many projects,” said Iwerks. “That’s been a real joy, to share things, like the Carrizo Plain Visitor’s Center.”

For more information, visit www. chapmaniwerks.com.

“Creekside Sycamores” is an oil painting by John Iwerks. Contributed Photo

JOHN IWERKS

Santa Ynez Tribal Health Clinic

provides free dental services at ‘Give Kids A Smile’ event

Staff Report

SANTA YNEZ — The Santa Ynez Tribal Health Clinic held its fifth annual Give Kids A Smile (GKAS) event on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the clinic, located on the reservation at 90 Via Juana Lane in Santa Ynez. The event provided children, ages 12 and under, with free dental work, including exams, cleanings, and more.

As one of SYTHC’s biggest events of the year, the clinic’s Dental Department provided dental care for any local child regardless of income or insurance status. Children received a comprehensive oral examination (including X-rays when appropriate), teeth cleaning, oral health education, and dietary recommendations. Any treatment that was diagnosed during the exams will be completed at follow-up visits throughout 2025. The event was staffed by SYTHC dentists, registered dental assistants and dental hygienists. The event saw 28 children being treated with a total of $7,300 in services as no cost to their families. over $4,200 of dental services were provided to 19 children at no cost to their families.

“Our dental clinic looks forward to this event every year, because it gives us an op-

portunity to shine a light on the importance of pediatric oral health, and to hopefully make a positive and lasting impact on our young patients,” said Dr. Mike Savidan, dental director for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, before the big event.

Located on the Santa Ynez Reservation at 90 Via Juana Lane in Santa Ynez, SYTHC accommodates more than 25,000 patient visits per year, has an active patient population of over 8,300 and employs 70 team members. The staff specializes in the highest standards of quality health care through modern medicine and cultural traditions. While the clinic’s comprehensive medical, dental and behavioral health services are available to Chumash Community Members, the clinic also treats non-native patients of diverse ethnic backgrounds with unique needs. The facility accepts Medicare, Medi-Cal and most major insurance plans.

The clinic is an unincorporated instrumentality of the tribe and is part of the Indian Health Service (IHS). SYTHC is also a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) that receives grant and third-party funding as a mature contractor. For more information, contact SYTHC at (805) 688-7070 or log on to www.sythc.org.

Dr. Israel Armijo entertains a patient while wearing a toothpaste costume on Feb. 4 during the Give the Kids a Smile event at Santa Ynez Tribal Health Clinic. The event served 28 young patients with free dental services. Photo Courtesy of Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians

COMMUNITY

Wooden troll makes its debut at Solvang Museum

Artist Thomas Dambo’s creation, the first in California, was made exclusively from recycled materials

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

There’s a new resident in Solvang, at the corner of Mission Drive (also Highway 246) and 5th Street. She’s rather large and scary looking, but very quiet. She’s in rather cramped quarters, but she’d better get used to it — she’s going to be there at least 10 years.

Her name’s Lulu Hyggelig, and she lives inside the Michele Kuelbs Tower Gallery at the California Nature and Art Museum. She’s the latest wooden troll created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, who at the end of 2024 had created 154 trolls around the world, all made from recycled materials.

Solvang’s new troll is special in a couple of ways: One, she’s the first permanent one to be located in California and, two, she’s the first one to be built completely indoors.

“I remember when we starting talking to him about building one of his trolls here to Solvang,” said Stacy Otte-Demangate, executive director

BUTCHER RAY WILLIAMS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

there I went to work at the Federal Correctional Complex in Lompoc. I was a cook foreman for two years and then moved on to be the vocational training instructor, teaching butchery to out-custody inmates, where I still work. I have been there for 10 years.” Williams has considered the job very rewarding.

“I consider this a dream job because I have the opportunity to teach inmates a skill they would not normally have the opportunity to acquire. It is a very fulfilling career,” he said. “In my classes I teach slaughter, carcass breakdown, retail cuts, sausages, and further processing like curing hams and bacon. It is the last meat program in the Bureau of Prisons.”

of the CNAM. “He had done all of this works outdoors, but when he saw our circular room, he liked the challenge of getting one of his trolls to fit inside.”

Dambo likes to give each of his trolls a unique name and backstory, and with CNAM’s new resident, he was inspired by the many bakeries in town, he named her Lulu Hyggelig, and envisioned her as someone who scavenged for the local bakeries’ leftover breads and pastries and eat them back in “her” tower until she got too big to get out.

Dambo and his team arrived in Solvang on Jan. 20, and with the help of almost 50 volunteers during the museum’s temporary closure, Lulu was complete less than two weeks later. The museum reopened on Feb. 2 with Lulu on full display in the tower, portrayed as a whimsical creature trying to get comfortable in her cramped space. Also included on the room’s wall is the poem explaining Lulu’s story (which is also included on this page).

Otte-Demangate was thrilled with the result as museum patrons observed the sculpture and posed for photos in front of it.

“I thought he did a wonderful job working the characteristics of the city, and especially the bakeries, into the character’s story,” she said. “He was able to get recycled wood from this area and

Lulu Hyggelig

By THOMAS DAMBO

even got some twigs and branches from local nurseries to make up her hair.”

Otte-Demangate said Lulu looks to be a permanent attraction at the museum, and confirms that “it will be here for 10 years at least”

People can observe Lulu and CNAM’s other exhibits during the museum’s regular hours: Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Museum is closed Tuesday and Wednesday).

To learn more about Dambo and see photos of all his trolls, as well as other projects, go to www.thomasdambo.com

THIS STORY HAS A HISTORY THAT STARTS BEFORE THE PAST. A TINY TROLL FROM FAR AWAY, SHE SWAM THE OCEAN VAST. SHE FOUND A COZY CITY AND TOOK SHELTER IN A TOWER. ON A STREET THAT SMELLED OF DANISH PASTRIES, YEAST AND FLOUR. AT NIGHT SHE SEARCHED THROUGH ALL THE TRASH CANS PATIENTLY FOR PASTRY. AND ATE THE CAKES THEY MADE TOO MUCH, BEHIND THE LOCAL BAKERY. THEN SLID BACK THROUGH THE TOWER DOOR, BEFORE THE NIGHT WAS GONE. AND SO SHE DID, DAY AFTER DAY, A HUNDRED YEARS WENT ON.

BUT THEN ONE DAY, HER TUMMY RUMBLED LOUDER THAN A THUNDER. SHE NO LONGER COULD SQUEEZE IT THROUGH THE DOOR TO FEED HER HUNGER. TRAPPED INSIDE THE TOWER LULU LIVES A LIFE ALONE. SO BRING A LITTLE CAKE, IF YOU INTEND TO SAVE YOUR OWN.

“It was a nationwide tryout, and the winners were narrowed down to 40,” he said. “Initially I had to submit a video and a bio, and then there were additional videos and questions to be answered, and the number was whittled down to 10. The last 10 of us had to go to Sacramento and compete on stage in front of an audience at the Farm to Fork Festival. Historically, butchers don’t like to reveal their methodology in public. From those final 10 contestants, they chose five of us to be on Team USA to join the one remaining team member.”

However, with that position earned comes the responsibility to raise money.

“The final team of six has to raise $10,000 each to cover costs. As the old saying goes, ‘The cutting is the easy part – the fundraising is the hard

Because of his experience and the fact that a number of the participants in the 2022 challenge weren’t returning for this year’s competition, Williams decided to try out for the team.

part,’” Williams said in jest. “The Los Alamos Men’s Club donated to my efforts for fundraising and I was able to reach my goal.

“Brad and Debra Vidro held a fundraiser at Maker’s Son in Los Alamos, and the community came out in full force to support my efforts. My mother, Sirley Williams, has also helped at every turn, along with my wife, Wendy, and our three children, Anna (age 17), Adam (age 16), and Miranda (age 12). And as co-owner of Whisky Bent BBQ, a catering service, I would like to thank the Rice guys for all their help fundraising. The entire community of Los Alamos has really backed me up, and I am most grateful for all their support.”

Butchers of America’s Team USA will be competing on March 30 and 31 with teams from Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, Iceland, Italy,

New Zealand, Romania, and Spain.

“It’s going to be pretty wild,” said Williams. “We have three hours and 30 minutes to break down half a cow, half a pig, a whole lamb, and five chickens. Every item is to be processed and displayed with a detailed recipe on how to cook it. The cuts you see in a grocery store are totally unlike what you will see in this competition because they are very innovative. The final display has to also include visually artistic features in the presentation, which you wouldn’t find in any grocery store.”

Williams said the competitors will be working in front of some watchful eyes.

“During the competition, judges walk around checking for safety, sanitation, teamwork, proper use of the equipment, and final display,” he continued. “The judges then pick one item of each protein from each coun-

try, which will be cooked according to the attached recipe by French chefs and ultimately judged.”

Williams said the winning team in the competition will get a trophy and bragging rights, but many more will gain benefits from the event.

“On April 1 everyone will attend a gala dinner put on by the WBC. All the meat from the competition is donated by WBC to be distributed to local food banks,” he said.

“Participating in this event is beyond my wildest dreams; being in Paris, butchering in front of a crowd, I know it will be an amazing experience, one to remember for a lifetime.”

Anyone wishing to donate to the Williams and the team can visit www.butchersofamerica.org to purchase merchandise and knives that are used exclusively in the competition. Just mention in the comments section, “Ray sent me.”

Asher and August Leslie pose in front of the troll named Lulu Hyggelig on Feb. 2 at the California Nature and Art Museum in Solvang. Lulu is the latest troll sculpture by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, and the first permanent one in California. Photo by Mike Chaldu/SYVS

FOOD & DRINK

Local wine lovers gather at Garagiste Festival’s ‘Southern Exposure’

Vintners event that started in Paso Robles in 2011, comes to Solvang for the 11th time

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

Wine lovers looking for vintages off the beaten path had plenty of small-production wines to sample in Solvang on Feb. 8, as the Veterans Memorial Hall hosted the 11th annual Garagiste Wine Festival: Southern Exposure.

The event had 31 wineries set up inside the building, all of which offer the best of limited-production wines on the Central Coast.

The Garagiste Festival premiered in Paso Robles in 2011 and is the only wine festival that exclusively features high-quality wines from commercial California “garagiste” winemakers. Unlike other festivals, the wines are poured by the winemakers/owners themselves, offering a rare opportunity to interact with the creative forces behind the wines, while making brand new wine discoveries. The festival expanded to the Santa Ynez Valley in 2013 to highlight the wines of Santa Barbara County and surround-

ing AVAs, as well as small production wineries from across California.

With that all set up at the Veterans Memorial Hall, wine connoisseurs got to get face-toface with many small winemakers explaining their creations.

Like BeckersChild Wines, which has found popularity with its Black Widow vintage.

“We have experimented with many varietals, but this Black Widow is our most profitable right now,” said co-owner Greg Becker, who talked about his how he came up with his creation. “It came to the point I hit something that made it silky smooth; the material I use to make it almost has the texture of a Fruit RollUp”

Also on hand was Kristin Fione, founder of Adarato Wines. Fione along with many of the other vintners in the building, does her wine business as a side gig.

“I work in the entertainment business, so a small-production operation like this is perfect for me,” she said.

Growing up outside Philadelphia, Fione eventually made her way to California, and then developing a passion for winemaking. She appreciates the chance to come to events like these.

“It’s just a chance to try small wines, and compare the different tastes,” she said. “It’s an

amazing source, and I get a great reception when I come out here. And I like to show everyone that Central Coast wines are the best.”

Another winemaker at the festival represents Solvang, as she just opened a tasting room in town. Anna Lancucki runs Final Girl Wines along with her husband Peter. Although she said she was inspired by the Meg Ryan romcom “French Kiss” to become a winemaker, it’s the couples love of horror movies that brings the winery products their theme.

“We just love the horror movies, and in each one there’s always one girl remaining who fights the bad guy and survives, so we named the company ‘Final Girl,’” said Anna, who was wearing a T-shirt of the movie “Scream.” “It’s just our way to keep it fun; I like to take out the pretentiousness and make it less serious.”

That sense played out at the Final Girl table which included a skull candle and all sorts of other horror memorabilia.

Although, it was a wine festival, there were other kinds of vendors also, like Shaana Rahman, who was selling her Boccabella Olive Oil from her San Miguel farm.

“We visited San Miguel and saw the farm, and I decided we had to move there and buy the farm,” said Rahman, who owns the business with her husband Johnny Jantz. “Making the olive oil is a lot like winemaking. You’re

taking things off the vine and making a delicious product out of it.”

Also, at the festival was Mira Honeycutt, the wine columnist from the Santa Ynez Valley Star’s sister publications in Paso Robles. Her and her husband Kirk Honeycutt have authored a book, “Sideways Uncorked,” about the making of the memorable movie that spotlighted the Valley’s wine scene.

Wineries participating in this year’s Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure included Absolution Cellars, Adorato Wines, Beckerschild Wines, Bocce Ball Wines, Cote of Paint Wine, Decemil Estate Wines, Detente Wines, Diablo Paso, Dusty Nabor Wines, El Vinero Wines, End of the Day Wines, Etnyre Wines, Exprimere Wines, Final Girl Wines, Fuil Wines, Kaleidos Wines, Mastro Scheidt, MCV Wines, Montagne Russe, Pars Fortuna Wine, RF Fine Wines, Sapien Wines, Slouch Hat Wines, Stiekema Wine Co., Sycamore Ranch, Tabalipa Wine Co., Tomi Cellars, Trois Le Fou, Vigo Cellars, Winespread Panic Cellars, and Zanoli Wines.

The Solvang stop is the first for the Garagiste Festival in 2025. Organizers have scheduled events for April (in Sonoma), June (in Los Angeles), and November (in Paso Robles). For more information on the festival, and its 2025 schedule, go to garagistefestival.com.

(Left) Anna Lancucki, co-owner of Solvang’s Final Girl Wines, speaks to an attendee at the Garagiste Wine Festival: Southern Exposure on Feb. 8 at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall. Lancucki’s wines and tasting room carry a horror movie motif, reflecting her and her husband Peter’s shared passions. (Center) Shaanan Rahman shows a couple of cans of her Boccabella Olive Oil, produced on her olive farm in San Miguel at the Garagiste Wine Festival: Southern Exposure on Feb. 8 at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall. (Right) Matt Fowler, owner of Slouch Hat Wines, talks with a wine lover at the Garagiste Wine Festival: Southern Exposure on Feb. 8 in Solvang. Fowler, who served with the U.S. Marine Corps names his vintages after military commands such as “Fall Out” and “As You Were.” Photos by Mike Chaldu/SYVS

CALENDAR

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 19

SANTA YNEZ COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT, 5:30 P.M.

At Community Services District Building, 1070 Faraday St. For more info: sycsd.com

THURSDAY, FEB. 20

SOLVANG DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE, 5 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang For more info: cityofsolvang.com

BUELLTON PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton For more info: cityofbuellton.com

MONDAY, FEB. 24

SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL, 6:30 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, MARCH 25

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

County Administration Building, 105 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara For more info: countyofsb.org

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 26

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION, 9 A.M.

123 East Anapamu Street, Room 17, Santa Barbara For more info: countyofsb.org LOS ALAMOS COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT, 6 P.M.

At LACSD Board Room, 82 Saint Joseph St., Los Alamos For more info: losalamoscsd.com

THURSDAY, FEB. 27

BUELLTON CITY COUNCIL, 6 P.M.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton For more info: cityofbuellton.com

MONDAY, MARCH 3

SOLVANG PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, MARCH 4

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

County Administration Building, 105 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara

For more info: countyofsb.org

EVENTS

SATURDAY, FEB. 22

CELEBRATE LIFE RUN, 9 A.M.

On February 21, 2020, Siri Lindley — a two-time world champion, Hall of Fame triathlete, coach to Olympic medalists and world champions, and renowned speaker — faced her toughest challenge yet: acute myeloid leukemia. With only a 5 percent chance of survival, Siri overcame the odds and emerged victorious.

Inspired by this incredible journey, Siri and her wife, Rebekah Keat, founded the Celebrate Life Run — an annual event now entering its fifth year! This heartfelt celebration marks the anniversary of Siri being officially declared cured and serves as a tribute to the miracle of life. This inclusive, timed walk/run honors life, remembers loved ones we’ve lost, and showcases the resilience of the human spirit. Open to all ages and fitness levels, it’s a day of gratitude, community, and inspi-

ration. The run begins and ends at Believe Ranch and Rescue, where Siri and Bek devote their lives to rescuing abused, neglected, and slaughter-bound horses. After the race, meet the rescue horses, Siri, and Bek while enjoying local artisan pop-ups featuring coffee, baked goods, wine, spirits, arts, and crafts. Registration Fees: $55 until Friday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m.; $65 on race day (registration begins at 8 a.m., Feb. 22); and $40 for the Virtual Race (processing fees included).

At Believe Ranch and Rescue, Santa Ynez

For more info: runsignup. com/Race/CA/SantaYnez/ SiriLindleysLIFERUN5KRunWalk

Trio Celeste, consisting of (from left) Ross Gasworth on cello, Kevin Kwan Loucks on piano, and Iryna Krechkovsky on violin, will be the next performers for the Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series, St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church, on Saturday, Feb. 22. Contributed Photo

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY CONCERT SERIES: TRIO CELESTE, 7 P.M.

The Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series will continue on Feb. 22 with a performance by Trio Celeste, consisting of Iryna Krechkovsky on violin, Ross Gasworth on cello, and Kevin Kwan Loucks on piano. Please join us for an evening with one of the most dynamic chamber music ensembles on the classical music scene today in a program featuring “Vasyl Barvinsky’s Piano Trio No. 1 in A Minor,” Frank Martin’s “Trio sur des mélodies populaires irlandaises,” and Dmitri Shostakovich’s “Piano Trio No. 2 in E Minor, Op. 67.”

In Los Olivos, the St. Mark’s Santa

Ynez Valley Concert Series brings exceptional musical performances to the heart of wine country. Hosted in the stunning sanctuary of St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church, the series showcases world-class talent spanning classical, jazz, folk, and contemporary genres. Known for its superb acoustics and intimate setting, the venue enhances every performance, creating a profound connection between artists and audience.

At St. Marks-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church, 2901 Nojoqui Avenue, Los Olivos

For more info/get tickets: smitv. org/2024-2025-santa-ynez-valleyconcert-series.html

SUNDAY, FEB. 23 KING TIDES WAVE SCULPTURES-ADULT ART WORKSHOP, 3 TO 5 P.M.

Join the California Nature Art Museum & Community Clayworks for an art workshop on Sunday, Feb. 23 from 3 to 5 p.m., creating King Tides Wave Sculptures. Participants will learn to sculpt a cresting wave and paint their pieces with colorful underglazes.

The Community Clayworks studio will fire and clear glaze completed wave sculptures. About two weeks later, you can pick them up at the museum or request shipping (additional fee applies).

Advance registration is required for the King Tides Wave Sculptures Adult Art Workshop. The class has a 16-person limit and is ideal for ages 15 and up.

Buy tickets on the CalNAM website under Programs & Events.

At California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info/tickets: www. calnatureartmuseum.org

SATURDAY, MARCH 1 ‘FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING’ ARTIST DIALOGUE, 4 P.M.

Join us at the Elverhøj Museum of History and Art for an inspiring afternoon as local artist Joe Castle

sits down with Neil Goodman to discuss his creative journey. Castle will speak about his current exhibition, “Figuratively Speaking,” that showcases sculptures you may have seen along Buellton’s Avenue of the Flags. His artistic vision was profoundly shaped by a visit to Walter Reed Hospital, where he sought to honor those who have served in the military. Castle also includes his latest explorations with pen and ink, watercolor, and printmaking. The discussion will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. in the museum gallery with light refreshments available.

At Elverhøj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang

For more info: elverhoj.org/ figuratively-speaking-artistdialogue/

ONGOING

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

Join us indoors on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. Come to enjoy songs, stories, movement, and a warm welcome. Please make a reservation at cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valley-library

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

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

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.