Santa Ynez Valley Star • January 21 - February 3, 2025
Road begins toward a new Solvang Senior Center
Administration, donors, and city and county officials join in breaking ground at site next to Veterans Building
By Mike Chaldu
michael@santaynezvalleystar.com
It was a moment Solvang Senior Center Executive Director Ellen Albertoni had been waiting for, and for a split second the emotion of the moment got to her.
As the head of the Senior Center was welcoming a packed house at the Solvang Veterans Center on Juan 15, her voice cracked a bit.
“This is so overwhelming,” Albertoni said after quickly composing herself. “This is a momentous occasion, and what better way to ring in the new year, the first month of the new year, than with a brand new building we all worked so hard for.”
Albertoni admitted later, after the ceremony, that the emotion of the moment briefly got to her.
“I promised myself I wouldn’t do that, but really, how can you not be emotional,” Albertoni said later after the ceremony. “It’s been a long road to get here.”
And the road to building Solvang Senior Center’s project to construct a new state-of-the-art
Community | Pg. 12 SYV Humane Society shelters pets displaced by Southern California fires
News Briefs . . . . . . . . . Pg. 2
• Solvang museum to debut California’s first permanent Thomas Dambo troll on Feb. 2 News Pg. 3
• Solvang City Council appoints Louise Smith to District 3 seat
Education Pg. 7
• Elks Students of the Month named for November and December
Sports . . . . . . . . . . . Pg. 10
• Solvang Nativity Pageant draws crowds beyond expectation
Spotlight Pg. 11
facility has officially begun. After demolition of the existing modular building was completed earlier this month, and the groundbreaking took place at the American Legion Wing of the Solvang Veterans Memorial Building.
The event included remarks from key stakeholders, refreshments, and
the ceremonial “golden shovel” moment to mark the start of construction at the site next to the Veterans Building, along Maple Avenue.
The ceremony before the “shovel” moment, held in the packed dining room, featured a number of speakers in addition to Albertoni, including Board Member Jan
Clevenger; Kathleen Campbell, daughter of former Solvang Mayor Willi Campbell, and Linda Johansen, who did a lot of fundraising for the center.
For Campbell it was a special thing to speak at the event, because as she said, “I am granted the
CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
• St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley holds annual Boar’s Head Festival
Food & Drink Pg. 14
• Local girl completes missionary service
Calendar Pg. 16
• Government meetings and events
(From left) Donor Alfred Holzheu, Donor Janet Garufis, Donor C.J. Jackson, Senior Center Executive Director Ellen Albertoni, Donor Dr. Virgil Elings, Santa Barbara County Supervisor Joan Hartmann, Adrian Hernandez of Urquides Building Company, and Solvang Mayor David Brown man the shovel line for the groundbreaking. Photos by Mike Chaldu
NEWS BRIEFS
SOLVANG
California Nature Art Museum to debut California’s first permanent Thomas Dambo troll on Feb. 2
The California Nature Art Museum (www. calnatureartmuseum.org formerly the Wildling Museum), located on 1511-B Mission Drive in Solvang, will be welcoming internationally renowned Danish artist and recycling activist Thomas Dambo, and his crew of international and local volunteer builders, as the team constructs the 154th Thomas Dambo troll inside the Museum’s front tower. The new Thomas Dambo troll will be the California’s first permanent troll, and the first Thomas Dambo troll to reside indoors, anywhere around the globe. The troll will debut to the public on Saturday, Feb. 1.
“I am excited to build my first troll living inside at the California Nature Art Museum,” said Dambo, whose mission is to build one of his trolls in every U.S. state. “The troll will feel right at home in the charming little American Danish town of Solvang, and it will be my first permanent sculpture in California.”
Copenhagen, Denmark-based Dambo is celebrated for his imaginative and colossal sculptures made from recycled materials. Specializing in creating enchanting wooden trolls, he breathes new life into discarded resources, showcasing the boundless potential hidden within our world’s trash cans.
“The City of Solvang lauds Thomas Dambo’s environmentally minded efforts, and we hope that this troll will serve as yet another proverbial bridge between Solvang and Denmark,” added Solvang City Manager Randy Murphy. “We are so fortunate to have the California Nature Art Museum here in Solvang, considering the importance of its mission and its cultural impact.”
The public is invited to a free Thomas Dambo Art Talk on Thursday, Jan. 30 at 7 p.m., in the Solvang Veterans Memorial Building (1745 Mission Drive in Solvang), where attendees may learn more about Thomas Dambo’s career as the world-leading recycle artist, and his adventurous journey of turning trash into his beloved trolls. Guests must register in advance by emailing rachel@calnatureartmuseum.org.
Additional information about the Thomas Dambo troll project may be found at www. calnatureartmuseum.org/news/thomas-dambo-at-calnam, which also includes a link for online donations.
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY
Goleta Police inform community of new state daylighting law
The Goleta Police Department put out a release explaining California’s new law, Assembly Bill 413, known as the “California Daylighting Law,” which went into effect on Jan. 1.
The daylighting law prohibits stopping, standing, or parking a vehicle within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk or within 15 feet of any crosswalk with a curb extension, which would affect all four corners in all directions. However, when the daylighting law was incorporated into California Vehicle Code section 22500(n)(1)(A), it was determined the law only applied to stopping, standing, or parking a vehicle within 20 feet of the vehicle approach side of any marked or unmarked crosswalk or within 15 feet of any crosswalk with a curb extension. This only applies to vehicles parked along the right side of the roadway as you approach intersections.
Effective Jan. 1, the law allows for violators
to be issued a parking citation for violating the Daylighting Law.
This law is intended to:
• Improve visibility at intersections
• Make it easier for drivers to see pedestrians, skateboarders, and other road users
• Reduce accidents and save lives
The new law says that:
• Drivers cannot park along the right side of the road, within 20 feet of a crosswalk, whether it’s marked or unmarked
• Drivers cannot park along the right side of the road, within 15 feet of a crosswalk with a curb extension
This law was written to address incidents where pedestrians were struck and seriously injured or killed while crossing the street. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, California’s pedestrian fatality rate was 25 percent higher than the national average. Pedestrian fatalities increased from 1,013 in 2020 to 1,108 in 2021. There are 43 other states that have implemented similar laws that have resulted in successfully reducing traffic collisions involving pedestrians.
The Goleta Police Department is aware street parking in local neighborhoods can be difficult, and parking is limited. This law is one component of many meant reduce pedestrian related traffic collisions.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
SYV students named to Southern New Hampshire University’s Dean’s List
Of the students named to the Southern New Hampshire University Dean’s List for fall 2024, two are from the Santa Ynez Valley.
Christopher Bryan, of Solvang, and Eddie Berry, of Santa Ynez, made the list by virtue of being full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.500 to 3.699 for the fall term, which ran from September to December. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.
the “Most Innovative” regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner.
SANTA BARBARA
Cachuma Lake conducting big trout release for 2025
Cachuma Lake is currently at 89 percent capacity, and the rainbows are here. The rainbow trout that is! In cooperation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the County of Santa Barbara is in the process of adding 16,000 pounds of rainbow trout to the lake this stocking season. The second 4,000-pound plant arrived this week, the first took place in November. The fish range in size from half-pound “catchables” to 8-pound trophies and come from Mt. Lassen Trout Farms, Inc., located in Paynes Creek, California.
This is a great time of year to be at the lake not only for fishing, but also for viewing the migrating birds passing through with some that are staying on for the winter. Bring a pair of binoculars to look for visiting eagles, osprey, and American white pelicans.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with a 92-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 200,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, New Hampshire. Recognized as one of
Visitors can also enjoy other park amenities including guided nature walks, Junior Rangers, disc golf, beautiful hiking trails, plus live music and delicious food at Hook’d Bar and Grill. Cachuma Lake Marina and Boat Rentals has everything an angler needs available for rent or purchase at the Bait and Tackle store, which offers pontoons, outboards and kayak rentals, as well as one-day and annual fishing licenses. Fishing from shore in the recreation area or from a boat is open year-round with a valid fishing license. In addition to rainbow trout, large and small mouth bass, crappie, carp, catfish, blue gill and red-eared sunfish are ready to bite. At this time the Guided Cruises are on hold until further notice due to maintenance. Please note that due to the 30-day Quagga restrictions, boats must be inspected and tagged by Cachuma Lake staff at least 30 days prior to visiting. Kayaks, canoes, and simple boats are eligible for same-day launch. For more information, please visit countyofsb.org/639/Boating-Vessel-Requirements.
Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is a full-service campground offering year-round cabin, yurt, RV and tent camping, recreational activities,
Solvang City Council appoints Louise Smith to District 3 seat
By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com
The Solvang City Council wasted no time filling its District 3 vacancy as the councilmembers voted to appoint Louise Smith, a chef and owner of Louise’s Kitchen Table, a catering business in Solvang.
Smith isn’t exactly a stranger to Solvang city politics and government; she ran for the District 3 seat in 2022, when the City Council began its conversion to a district-based council, and lost to David Brown by six votes. The seat opened up when Brown was elected mayor in November 2024. Smith has also served on the city’s Tourism Advisory Committee in 2023.
The council kicked off the meeting by introducing the two candidates for the empty seat: Smith and Melanie-Eckford Prossor, who serves as director of curriculum and outreach for the Liberty Cap Foundation, and is also a book seller at the Book Loft in Solvang.
The meeting kicked off with both candidates addressing the council and making their case for the position.
Smith started off by reminding that she narrowly the District 3 election and said it did show that she had support among the district’s voters. She also cited her experience as president of her HOA and her time with many boards
parking and our traffic congestion,” she said.
In summary, Smith said “I don’t have all the answers, but my passion and commitment to District 3 and to Solvang are strong.”
In addressing the council, Eckford-Prossor said came by the District 3 vacancy by accident.
“I was working at the Book Loft and was checking Julefest things, and I saw the District 3 seat was open,” she said. “And I thought to myself ‘This really is the time,’ because I’ve been in governance at the academic senate at a university and as senate president at Santa Barbara City College. The links between how a college works and a city works is, I believe, very similar.”
After the Public Comment segment saw five speakers come to the podium in support of Smith, it did not take long for the council to act.
Councilmember Elizabeth Orona praised Smith before making a motion, seconded by Councilmember Mark Infanti, to appoint her to the board.
“Having run for office, it give the public an opportunity to know the person,” Orona said. “Having the evidence of what the voters thought in the [2022] election is a good indicator for the appointment. And when Louise didn’t win that election, she immediately raised her hand and joined the Tourism Advisory Committe, so I think there’s something very right about appointing her.”
and commissions locally.
“I’ve had to make the hard decisions that boards and councils make, so I understand the process,” Smith said.
Smith cited water supplies and infrastructure as the major issues confronting Solvang.
“2025 is expected to be a drought year, which brings up concerns about water conservation, aging wells, and our dependence on state water,” she said. “The L.A. fires shown how vulnerable we really are.”
Smith also commented on the fact that 800,000 tourists came through town during Julefest, the city’s month-plus-long Christmas celebration.
“That was all exciting and wonderful, but it puts strains on our resources, including
Eckford-Prossor also cited her experience on the Theaterfest Board and Santa Barbara Foundation, among other pursuits, before addressing the issues in the city.
“We’re at a crucial hinge moments for Solvang,” she said. “I live on Laurel and 2nd, and during December, the parking [by tourists] reached up to past the secondary school. We need to better for residents, tourists, and businesses. And that’s been the impetus for my applying.”
Eckford-Prossor also identified water conservation as a big issue.
“I’m involved in the Santa Barbara Community Rowing Association at Lake Cachuma, and every time I go down there I see the water level dropping,” she said. “And I have a dog, Daisy, that I take to the park and there no place there where she can get a drink of water. We need to build consensus for these things.”
The council approved Smith’s appointment with a 4-0 vote.
In other business, the City Council appointed people to the city’s boards and commissions. The appointments are as follows:
Planning Commission: Jack Williams (appointed by Infanti), Aaron Peterson (Claudia Orona), Brandon Sparks-Gillis (Smith), Bill Ziegler (Elizabeth Orona), Kief Adler (Brown).
Design Review Committee: Esther Jacobsen-Bates (Infanti), Jennifer Johnson (Claudia Orona), Melissa Bates (Smith), Charlene Goetz (Elizabeth Orona),Richard Boyd (Brown).
Measure U Citizen Oversight Committee: Adelia Kehoe (Claudia Orona) and Henry Haugse (Brown).
The next City Council meeting will be Monday, Jan. 27, at 6:30 p.m.
Louise Smith addresses the Solvang City Council in her bid for the District 3 council seat during the council meeting on Jan. 13. Smith would be the newest member of the City Council before the night was done. Screenshot from YouTube
nature programs for all ages and of course, fishing! For camping reservations and more information, go to countyofsb.org/334/Parks.
Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office adds two new K-9 teams
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office on Jan. 7 officially introduced two new members of its K-9 team, Obi and Draco, at the County Board of Supervisors’ regularly scheduled meeting.
Both dogs are specially trained German Shepherds, generously donated by Christine and Reece Duca through funding from the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Benevolent Posse’s Project Deputy Dog program. The Ducas have previously donated two other K-9s to the Sheriff’s Office, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to public safety.
Obi and Draco are trained in patrol, urban tracking, and specialized detection — one in explosives and the other in narcotics. These exceptional additions replace two recently retired K-9 team members. With their arrival, the Sheriff’s Office now fields a total of five canines: three assigned to patrol operations and two dedicated to custody operations for narcotics detection. This ensures 24/7 patrol coverage across Santa Barbara County and critical narcotics detection capabilities in custody facilities.
The K-9 teams play a pivotal role in public and officer safety, routinely deployed in highrisk scenarios such as building searches, open area searches, human scent tracking, and evidence recovery. They also assist the county’s Special Enforcement Teams with perimeter containment and active searches. Weekly, rigorous training keeps these teams at peak readiness for the challenges they face.
The Sheriff’s Benevolent Posse, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, helps bridge the gap between the increasing demands for public safety and the county’s limited budget. By raising funds for vital equipment and training, the Posse ensures law enforcement can continue to safeguard the community effectively.
“We are incredibly grateful to Christine and Reece Duca for their generous donation through the Posse’s Project Deputy Dog program,” said SBCSBP Board Chairman Richard Kline. “Their unwavering support has funded not only Obi and Draco but also two previous K-9 additions. Their dedication to community safety is both inspiring and deeply valued.”
Born in Germany and trained by the Inglis Police Dog Academy in Oxnard, Obi and Draco recently completed 200 hours of rigorous training and are now actively serving Santa Barbara County. These highly skilled dogs enhance the Sheriff’s Office’s ability to respond effectively to diverse and complex challenges.
Maintaining the County’s K-9 program requires continuous support. To contribute to this critical initiative, visit www.sbsheriffsposse.
org. Donations of $25,000 or more grant the honor of naming the next K-9 partner.
For more information about the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Benevolent Posse, its K-9 Unit campaign, or additional ways to support law enforcement, visit www.sbsheriffsposse.org.
Draft Recreation Master Plan published; comment period lasts until Feb. 24
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 are interested to hear more about the
Letters to the Editor
Measure L failure leaves local schools in tough spot
Dear Neighbors,
I write to thank the Santa Ynez voters who voted for Measure L. Unfortunately, we did not reach the 55 percent threshold to pass the measure. We fell about 100 votes short. This leaves the district, our teachers, Bobcats, and Dragons in a tough spot.
This was a measure that would have enabled critical safety and modernization facility enhancements for College Elementary School, Santa Ynez Elementary School, and the Santa Ynez Valley Charter School.
Although we have state-recognized high academic achieving students — and also for kindness — and award-winning teachers, our buildings are near the end of their lifespan.
The only way we can keep our buildings safe and modern is with support from the commu-
nity. This is a quirk of the state funding model. Your property taxes empower amazing learning opportunities and best-in-class educators for our local students. But student dollars do not translate to facilities.
Some buildings that our TK and kindergarten students currently learn in have not been renovated not just since I graduated from Santa Ynez Elementary in 1998 but since they were built decades before.
Our Valley is as strong as our public education. I thank you for your Yes votes on Measure L. If it was not on your radar when you cast your ballot last month, I welcome the opportunity to speak with you about how critical a school facilities bond is to the whole Santa Ynez Valley.
Dr. Peter Wright Board President College School District
In our ‘Pyrocene’ era
We live in the “Pyrocene” era … the age of fire. Supercharged Santa Ana winds, and record high temperatures and drought have fueled the current wildfire crisis. There is death in Los Angeles County, tens of thousands have been displaced, and countless homes are reduced to ashes.
In the far north of our state, massive fires have torn through rainforests where climate change burned off the region’s protective layer of fog and mist.
As with increasing hurricane devastation in Florida, and massive flooding in many other states, insurance losses mount. Our insurance premiums continue to rise … if coverage is even available.
We are in the midst of natural disasters caused by climate change. The burning of fossil fuels is the main culprit. Profits for ExxonMobil officers and shareholders continue to grow, while we pay the price.
ExxonMobil seeks to restart oil production
Program Environmental Impact Report, a virtual environmental scoping meeting will be held on Thursday, Feb. 6, at 5 p.m. Please visit countyofsb.org/1214/Recreation-Master-Plan for more information.
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 long-range 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.
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.
off Santa Barbara and, via its creation called Sable Oil, ship it in the same pipeline that caused a catastrophic spill 10 years ago.
The U.S. is already the world’s biggest producer of oil and gas. No new production is needed. Unless we actively favor a clean energy economy over the short-sighted mercantile interests of Big Oil, wildly destructive weather events will only escalate in frequency and ferocity.
Our County Planning & Development folks must do more thorough, creditable, and rigorous reviews of proposals pushed by Big Oil. And if County Supervisors Bob Nelson and Steve Lavagnino would truly work in the best interest of constituents, we could all navigate climate change with less calamitous damage and with less onerous insurance premiums for us all.
Seth Steiner Los Alamos
Buellton City Council deadlocks on filling council vacancy
Appointment continued to Jan. 23 meeting; special election is a possibility
By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com
ABuellton City Council meeting that many hoped would result in the appointment of a new City Councilmember, instead resulted in that issue being tabled until the next meeting, and the increased possibility of a special election to fill the seat.
The new contingent of councilmembers had hoped to appoint a candidate to serve out the term of the District 4 seat during the meeting, but the four councilmembers deadlocked on the two main candidates: Carla Mead, a self-employed math tutor and wine ambassador for Rideau Winery, who’s served as Solvang Theaterfest board member and a volunteers for a number of local organizations, and former Buellton Mayor Dave King, a retired CHP officer who has also served on many local boards and commissions.
The process for the new councilmember vote began with Mayor David Silva, who was the District 4 representative until taking over as mayor last month, announcing that candidates would have a three-minute period to state their case for the position, moving to public comment, and then the established councilmembers deciding on their choice. Silva then called up Mead, who he said was the only candidate who submitted a letter of interest “to all of us as a council.”
In her speech, Mead cited her experience as an educator for 20 years as well as her work as a volunteer with groups like the SYV Humane Society and Solvang Theaterfest Board, among others.
“I’ve taught in a wide variety of environments. These experiences required me to connect with people of diverse backgrounds, understand their unique challenges ... and collaborate to find solutions for everyone,” she said.
She also spoke of her direct involvement in city government in applying for a spot on the Planning Commission, and helping lead a successful appeal against the building of an In-N-Out Burger on McMurray Road.
“These experiences deepened my understanding of local government and reinforced
my view of thoughtful planning that balances economic growth with the preservation of the character of our city,” Mead said.
“Throughout my life, I’ve been guided by my commitment to service,” Mead concluded. “This opportunity to serve on City Council would give me the chance to serve the community I love in a profound way.”
After Mead spoke, Silva opened up the floor for anyone else who wanted to be considered for the council vacancy, and King, the city’s previous mayor, stepped up to the podium to express his interest.
“I think my record speaks for itself,” King said, citing his experience in the military, law enforcement, and city government. “I think some of the accomplishments that I’ve done over the last 12 years have served the City of Buellton and its citizens. Every decision I’ve made was for the good and betterment of the community. We all do this as a labor of love for the community.”
In the following public comment, seven speakers came forward to voice their support for Mead, including her husband John, and some co-workers and fellow volunteers. The common thread with the speakers was their desire to bring some “new blood” (as put by the first speaker, Vivian Engle) on the council. They also praised Mead for her past work as a volunteer and on numerous board and councils, as well as her efforts in appealing the In-N-Out proposal.
When the item came back to council, District 1 Councilmember Hudson Hornick and District 3 Councilmember John Sanchez backed King; however, Silva and Vice Mayor
Elysia Lewis (District 2) threw their support behind Mead.
The impasse seemed to be a case of the councilmembers arguing on two different issues as they debated, at times contentiously, the choice between the candidates.
Hornick began by nominating King, saying he was against the idea of appointing someone to the council instead having an election. He said if they had to appoint, they should select King because although he lost the mayoral election in November, the votes he garnered showed he has support from people in the city.
“There was a mayoral election and Dave King got 1,200 votes,” he said. “I am unwilling to appoint someone else when we have somebody who got 1,200 votes in the election wants to serve.”
Sanchez also supported King for the appointment, bristling at the talk that the council needed “new blood,” or a different voice. His position was that the previous council had done a good job at leading the city.
“A small group got together to stop In-NOut, and now a small group wants to come in and change things,” Sanchez said. “I get comments from residents from other cities who tell me what a great city Buellton is and we’re doing it right, and a lot of that should be credited to Dave King.”
Lewis, meanwhile, believed bringing in a “new voice” would be beneficial, and would encourage citizens in the future to get involved.
“I don’t take away from the awesome things King did for this city,” she said. “My
concern is we had a small group get involved in leading this city. We talk about wanting to get the citizens involved [in council] but then we don’t let them in, and it’s difficult to get new people involved. My support would be for new voices, why I would nominate Carla, but that doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate who came before.”
In expressing his support for Mead, Silva said that District 4 supporters had come to the meeting and expressed their desire to see Mead appointed, and that took precedence over an election for another office.
“I struggle with the rational of an election for mayor being the reason not to get someone new [for District 4],” Silva said. “If we’re trying to represent District 4’s interest, District 4 has spoken: 17 emails for Mead , nine from the district, and four or five [actually seven] comments.”
After the ensuing debate over the relevance of the mayor’s race to the District 4 appointment, and the need for new voices when, as Sanchez pointed out, he was the longest serving councilmember on the dais and had only been there six years, the four councilmembers said they would not budge.
After separate motions to appoint each of the candidates to the seat ended in 2-2 votes, Hornick moved to continue the item until the next meeting on Jan. 23. That motion passed 3-1, with Lewis dissenting.
Silva said that any additional candidates wanting the appointment would be considered, but that if a decision isn’t reached on Jan. 23, the city would go to a special election for the seat.
In other business at the meeting:
• Appointments were made for the city’s Planning Commission as Silva appointed Brian Campbell, and Hornick appointed Kasey Kump. Two existing members, Shannon Reese and Marcilo Sarquilla were designated as appointees of Lewis and Sanchez, respectively. The council held off the appointment of a fifth member pending the potential appointment of the District 4 council seat.
• The councilmembers determined assignment for some of the boards and commissions: As mayor, Silva will be the representative for SBCAG and the Air Pollution Control District, with Lewis being the alternate for both; while Sanchez will continue as rep for the Central Coast Water Authority.
The Buellton City Council debates the appointment to fill its District 4 vacancy during the Jan. 9 meeting. From left are Hudson Hornick, Vice Mayor Elysia Lewis, Mayor David Silva, and John Sanchez. Screenshot from YouTube
Santa Barbara County Association of Governments elects new leaders for 2025
Mayors of Buellton, Solvang, and Lompoc among the new members of the board Staff Report
Santa Barbara Mayor Randy Rowse was unanimously selected as 2025 chair of the Board of Directors for Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) and Fourth District County Supervisor Bob Nelson as vice-chair. Santa Barbara County Supervisor Roy Lee, Buellton Mayor David Silva, Lompoc Mayor James Mosby, and Solvang Mayor David Brown join the board as new members. The board also approved its 2025 meeting schedule.
Rowse, as chair, will guide the board in 2025 discussions on SBCAG’s future regional priorities after completing the Santa Barbara Highway 101 High Occupancy Vehicle project. Local, state, and federal partners secured approximately $700 million leveraged by Measure A, the voter-approved countywide half-cent transportation sales tax for the Highway 101 upgrades, including safety improvements, carpool lanes, rail, transit, bicycle, pedestrian, and local road enhancements. The SBCAG and Caltrans project team expects to receive news this summer about state funding for the final segment in Santa Barbara, stretching from Hermosillo Road to Sycamore Creek north of Cabrillo Boulevard. If approved, the entire project could be completed by the end of 2028.
“Securing funding for the Highway 101 corridor is a testament to the power of partnership and dedication,” said Rowse. “This project is a critical investment in our region’s connectivity and future, and we remain committed to seeing it through to completion.”
The SBCAG Board of Directors is set to consider several initiatives in 2025, including adopting the State Route 166 Comprehensive Corridor Study. The study outlines key infrastructure improvements and safety enhancements along the vital east-west corridor connecting Santa Maria and Guadalupe.
The implementation of a peak-hour morning rail service between Ventura and Santa Barbara counties is also a priority. A pilot rail service for commuters is in the planning phase in partnership with Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC), Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor Agency (LOSSAN), and Southern California Regional Rail Authority (Metrolink). The one-year pilot, operated by Metrolink, is anticipated to start in fall 2025, pending contract negotiations and other planning activities.
The agency will also continue its efforts to carry out the Broadband Strategic Plan, introduce expanded Clean Air Express service, and adopt the updated “Connected2050” plan, which will shape regional transporta-
tion and land use decisions for the next 30 years.
“Now more than ever, serving on SBCAG presents a unique opportunity to guide the future of the agency’s work in the region,” said Executive Director Marjie Kirn. “SBCAG is uniquely poised to provide a forum for regional collaboration and to create transformative change.”
The first Board of Directors meeting in the new year took place on Thursday, Jan. 16, in Santa Barbara. The Board of Directors will decide on several statewide or multi-county organization appointment opportunities, including positions on the California Association of Councils of Governments (CALCOG), Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor Agency (LOSSAN), Coast Rail Coordinating Council (CRCC), CalVans, and Highway 154 Safety Committee.
“As we move into the new year, I will look to our Board of Directors to make key investments in Northern Santa Barbara County,” said Vice Chair Bob Nelson. “Connec-
tivity is extremely important but safety is paramount. Improvements to corridors such as State Route 135 and 1 at Santa Lucia Road are vital to enhancing every aspect of our daily lives.”
SBCAG provides planning, project management, grant administration, alternative transportation commuter services, administers Measure A, and seeks transportation infrastructure funding opportunities for the benefit of all residents of Santa Barbara County. Its Governing Board consists of all five county board of supervisors plus one representative from each city council.
SBCAG board meetings occur on the third Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. unless communicated otherwise and rotate between North County and South Coast locations. The Jan. 16 meeting will took place at the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors hearing room at 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.
The public is encouraged to subscribe to receive the latest SBCAG news and review upcoming agendas at www.sbcag.org.
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Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge honors Robinson, Glover as Students of the Month
Both seniors have proven ability to balance academics with extracurricular activities
The Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge recently was able to reward a pair of outstanding Santa Ynez Valley Union High School students who were named Elks Student of the Month.
Cassidy Robinson was named Student of the Month for November, while Cailin Glover got the honor in December.
Robinson is a senior at the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School and is currently enrolled in two AP classes and two dual enrollment classes through Hancock College. She balances that with a part-time job.
She still enjoys taking time for herself, driving with the music on, going to the beach, watching the sunset and spending time with loved ones.
“It is not only important to me to make myself proud but the people around me,” Robinson said. “I enjoy being able to help around the community when I can even if it is as small as lending a friend a helping hand.”
Robinson hopes to attend Arizona State University next fall, where she hopes to join the cheer team and major in criminal justice.
“I am interested in making change in the world while also understanding how or why things happen the way they do,” she said. “From a young age I learned grit, determination and perseverance from competitive gymnastics, which showed me that even your hardest battles do not depict who you are as a person but how you deal with them.”
Glover is a student who has shined in athletics, most notably volleyball, where she’s been a three-year captain for the Pirates girls volleyball team, and has been named team MVP and a Scholar Athlete. She also plays for the SYHS girls beach volleyball team in the spring, and also plays for the Flight Academy club team.
Glover is not only a standout in her sport, but also a role model in the classroom, with a 3.9 GPA while taking two AP courses and three Allan Hancock College concurrent
enrollment courses. Her teachers describe her as a delight to have in class and say she always contributes positively and with maturity.
“Cailin exemplifies the ideal of a student-athlete,” said SYHS Administrative Assistant Alexa Tomasini. “Her athleticism is unparalleled, as she dominates in her sports with a combination of skill, determination, and an indomitable competitive spirit that inspires her teammates. She consistently demonstrates leadership, strategic thinking, and a work
ethic that sets her apart as a force to be reckoned with.”
Cailin hopes to attend the University of Colorado or San Diego State University, majoring in business and marketing, with the goal of being the CEO of a company one day. She loves the Santa Ynez Valley and says this is a great place to live and go to school because it is a small community. She would love to live here as an adult one day with her family, but she will live wherever she can to be near family, especially her brothers.
Staff Report
(Left) Elks November Student of the Month Cassidy Robinson (center) accepts a check from Santa Ynez Valley Elks Exalted Ruler Bonnie Rees (left) and Elks Scholarship Coordinator Pat Merritt. (Right) Elks December Student of the Month Cailin Glover (center) accepts a check from Santa Ynez Valley Elks Exalted Ruler Bonnie Rees (left) and Elks Scholarship Coordinator Pat Merritt.
NBA legend Isiah Thomas joins latest episode of Dunn School’s ‘The Whole Student’ podcast
Staff Report
LOS OLIVOS — NBA All-Star and Basketball Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas reflects on his journey from the West Side of Chicago to international stardom in the latest episode of “The Whole Student,” Dunn School’s acclaimed podcast. Hosted by Head of School Kalyan Balaven and innovator Mo Pritzker, the episode dives deep into themes of community, mentorship, and education’s role in shaping lives and fostering belonging.
Thomas shares heartfelt stories of resilience and inspiration, including how his mother, Mary Thomas, instilled the importance of education and integrity during their most challenging times. Now the founder of Mary’s Court Foundation, which supports underprivileged families in Chicago, Thomas continues to champion the values his mother upheld.
“My mom, my biggest inspiration, my biggest motivator, ... made it all work,” Thomas said. “We had some very, very difficult times … as I’m older now and I look back on what she really did and how she kept us together as a family … I’m in awe of what she did in the ’50s and ’60s as a woman.”
A unique perspective on belonging and leadership
As a student-athlete, Thomas navigated significant cultural and socioeconomic divides, experiencing firsthand the challenges of belonging in private and public educational spaces. He credits teachers and coaches like Bobby Knight for mentoring him through pivotal moments, helping him grow into both a leader on the court and an advocate for community development.
“Leadership, the way I see it, it’s given, it’s not taken,” Thomas shared. “When I look at those who lead ... it comes down to trust. Can you trust this person? Can you trust their word to be accurate and also informative?”
Thomas also discussed the evolving challenges educators face in building trust and community in the classroom: “Without the
A platform for transformative conversations Since its launch, “The Whole Student” podcast has been a platform for thought-provoking discussions about education and leadership. With episodes exploring the impact of exceptional teachers, women in STEM fields, and the social challenges of modern schools, the podcast has drawn attention from national education publications and local media alike.
“Our mission is to spark meaningful conversations,” said Balaven. “Through stories like Isiah’s, we aim to inspire educators and parents to rethink education’s role in building trust, resilience, and connection.”
teachers, without the mentors, without that passing on of knowledge, it’s a scary thought of where we would be,” Thomas said. “If we can get the students and our young folk back to being able to look at each other without suspicion, then you got a chance.”
This episode is part of “The Whole Student” podcast’s third season, which focuses on creating community and belonging in educational settings. The season has featured prominent guests like Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Academy Award-winning actress Glenn Close, and NextDoor founder Prakash Janakiraman. Each guest brings unique perspectives on how educators, parents, and leaders can foster inclusive environments where all individuals feel valued and supported.
The episode featuring Isiah Thomas is available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Seasons 1 and 2 are also available on YouTube. The episode comes at a critical time when educators and communities are grappling with how to create environments of belonging amid heightened social and technological pressures. Thomas’s reflections on mentorship and community offer timely insights for those seeking to make a positive impact in their schools and neighborhoods.
About Dunn School: Nestled in the scenic Santa Ynez Valley of California, Dunn School is a boarding and day school for grades 6-12. Since its founding in 1957, Dunn has prioritized Whole Student Education, empowering students to grow academically, emotionally, and morally within a supportive community. The school’s mission extends beyond academics to instill qualities like leadership, responsibility, and compassion in its students.
Isiah Thomas, Basketball Hall of Famer and winner of two NBA championships with the Detroit Pistons, will be the guest to kick off the third season of “The Whole Student” podcast. Photo from NBA.com
It’s
SPORTS
a win, loss, and tie for Pirates boys soccer so far in Sunset League play
SYHS boys basketball shuts down Nipomo for first Sunset League win
By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com
The Pirates boys soccer is off to a decent start in Sunset League play, gaining a win and a tie after a league-opening loss.
Santa Ynez traveled to St. Joseph on Jan. 14, where the teams played to a 3-3 tie. Vince Guerrero scored two goals in the first half, one a put-back shot after Marcos Rivera hit the crossbar, and the other off a corner kick that had been cleared by the St. Joseph defense, to give the Pirates a 2-1 halftime lead. Saint Joseph scored
twice in the second half for the lead, but Rivera forced a tie, scoring came from a direct free kick.
Four days earlier, the Pirates earned their first league win by beating Atascadero 1-0. Guerrero had the lone goal in that one: Teammate Austin Willis sent a shot that hit the post, but Guerrero was in perfect position to knock it into the net, according to head coach Hector Garcia.
The Pirates, now 1-1-1 in the Sunset League, and 3-9-2 overall, next play Lompoc today (Tuesday) at home and travel to Templeton on Friday.
So far this season, Rivera is the team leader in goals with 5, with Jackson Elliott and Austin Willis having 4 apiece.
Boys basketball
The Pirates boys hoopsters had a big night in their league opener, shutting
down host Nipomo 72-24 on Jan. 14.
Jude Pritchard (15 points) and Mason Skidmore (14) scored in double figures, while Ikenna Ofiaeli had 7 points and 9 rebounds.
The win broke a two-game losing streak for Santa Ynez, who will travel to Morro Bay today for the first of three road games. The Pirates return home Jan. 29 for a game against Dunn.
Girls
basketball
The SYHS girls basketball team have gotten off to a slow start in Sunset League, dropping their first two games of the league schedule.
Their latest was a 55-31 loss to San Luis Obispo on the Pirates’ court on Jan. 14.
Lailani Ladera led SYHS with 8 pts, while Helina Pecile had 6 points and a teamhigh 12 boards.
SYHS opened the league schedule with a 49-30 loss at Cabrillo on Jan. 10. Pecile had 10 points, 5 boards, and 4 steals, while Kylie LaPointe and Lexi Molera had 7 points apiece.
With a record of 0-2 in the Sunset League and 9-7 overall, the Pirates played Lompoc last Friday (Jan. 17) and will play Paso Robles.
Girls soccer
The Pirate girls earned their first Sunset League win of the year with a 3-1 win over Cabrillo on the SYHS turf. Grace Vasquez was the Player of the Match with two goals. Isabella Rubio added another scored. Santa Ynez, with a record of 1-1 in league and 5-5-1 overall played at Pioneer Valley on Friday, Jan. 17, and will go to Santa Maria on Tuesday, and return home against Lompoc on Thursday, Jan. 24.
(Left) Jude Pritchard, seen in action earlier this season, and the Santa Ynez boys basketball will be on the road for three games before returning home to play Dunn on Jan. 29. (Right) Santa Ynez’s Marcos Rivera, seen here in action against Cabrillo earlier this season, is the Pirates’ leading scorer so far this year with 5 goals. Photo by Mike Chaldu
St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley holds annual Boar’s Head Festival
By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer
The annual Boar’s Head Festival and Feast is a celebration honoring the Feast of the Epiphany, the 12th day of Christmas, which is the day the Three Kings are said to have arrived in Bethlehem bearing gifts for the infant Jesus.
It was held on Saturday, Jan. 4, at St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church in Los Olivos. The event has been held at St. Mark’s since 1977 and was well-attended by members of the congregation and the community who came to enjoy the closing of the Christmas season with pageantry, song, and dinner.
The history of the Boar’s Head reaches back into the days of the Roman Empire. The festival was a popular Christmas event of the great manor houses of England in the 17th century. The custom of the Boar’s Head and Yule Log was carried to colonial America. The ceremony serves as an offering of praise to Jesus Christ of His Epiphany and to remind us the great gift of love given to us all at Christmas.
The festival began with members of the Central Coast Pipes & Drums marching up the center aisle of the church playing bagpipes, followed by the Yule Sprite, carrying the Yule candle ahead of Father Christmas.
Interim Rector Rev. Scott Claassen welcomed the congregation and explained the meaning of the Boar’s Head Festival.
“We gather this evening for an enjoyable celebration of the birth of Jesus at the end of this Christmas season, marked by the Feast of the Epiphany,” he said. “The traditional English boar’s head dates back to the 1300s in Queen’s College, Oxford. The serving of the boar symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.”
“Father Christmas is here to remind us that the real Santa Claus was a saint who loved Jesus and did good and unusual things, because of this love,” he said.
The Yule Sprite, played by Anita Finifrock, then came to remind us of our Christmas memories and of all the Christmases to come. She then lit the candle in the stand as those attending sang the traditional carol, “Angels We Have Heard on High,” while several little angels, shepherds, and little ones dressed as sheep walked up the aisle and seated themselves around the altar.
Rev. Claassen then read from the Gospel of Matthew, telling the sto-
Claassen then went on to tell the story of the origin of Santa Claus, or Father Christmas (played by Greg Johnson), a real fourth-century bishop and Saint, Nicolas of Myrna.
ry of the three Magi who followed a star to Bethlehem and brought the newborn baby Jesus gifts of gold (symbolic of his kingship), frankincense (symbolic of his high priesthood), and myrrh (his suffering and death) and ultimately outwitting Herod.
While the congregation sang “We Three Kings,” the three kings played by Nichole Dechaine, Nathan Kreitzer, and Carl Johnson arrived bearing gifts.
Then Claassen spoke of the Good King Wenceslas, played by Scott Wolfe, who along with the Page (Martine Surey), recognized the need of a poor person (John Surey), and responded to that need. The audience sang “Good King Wenceslas.”
The time had arrived for the feast to begin, but not before The Ruler of Misrule, played by Sean Duggan, arrived on the scene to disrupt the festivities. He was invited to join the guests at dinner and the Steward of the Feast beckoned the Boar Bearers, to carry the boar’s head down the aisle as the congregation sang the “Boar’s Head Carol.”
Everyone then proceeded to Stacy Hall to enjoy a feast of pork, potatoes, red cabbage, and applesauce, along with wine or beer and a plethora of desserts.
“The Boar’s Head Festival feels a lot like family and has a real sense of community,” said Maisy Curtis, a dinner guest.
Following dinner, the traditional
singing of “The 12 Days of Christmas” was acted out by guests at each table to a great amount of laughter. A sincere round of applause was given to those who worked for days arranging this event, and Chef Mike Chadsea for roasting the pork and preparing the side dishes that were enjoyed by all.
“The Boar’s Head Festival is a warm community family-filled event,” said Cori Curtis.
The evening came to a close with the singing of “Silent Night” and all the guests helped with the clean-up.
“The Boar’s Head Festival is a simple Christmas pleasure,” said Finn Curtis. “It’s not something that people think a lot about when listing popular events.”
Local residents played the parts as they reenacted the day the Three Kings bore gifts for the baby Jesus, during the Boar’s Head Festival and Feast in Los Olivos. Photos by Devyn Marseilles
REGIONAL NEWS
SYV Humane Society shelters pets displaced by Southern California fires
Animal shelter gets help from Buellton Garage in gathering donations for fire victims
By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com
The outbreak of destructive fires in Southern California, most notably the Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades and Malibu and the Eaton Fire in the Pasadena area, is making its presence known up and down the state.
However, the catastrophe south has also given people outside the fire areas the chance to step up and offer assistance to people and creatures of all kind. And that spirit has definitely emerged in the Santa Ynez Valley.
A big part of that relief effort has shown itself at the Santa Ynez Valley Humane
Society facility in Buellton.
The SYVHS has welcomed in seven dogs that were up for adoption in Los Angeles-area shelters, according to Animal Care Supervisor Ally Boswell.
“In fact, two of them have already been adopted,” she said. “And there are others looking for a good home.”
Boswell said when the fires started up, SYVHS contacted shelters and offered to take some dogs in. She also pointed out that the dogs moved up to the Valley were one already up for adoption, rather than those displaced by the fire and are trying to reunite with their families.
“When this sort of thing happens, we have a network that we call partner shelters,” Boswell said. “We have a list of shelters and if they’re in an area that’s in trouble, we can go to that list and contact any of them to see if they need to move any pets.”
Boswell said they got their dogs from shelters in Pasadena, one that’s run by the
city of Los Angeles, and another that’s run by LA County.
The Humane Society’s efforts didn’t stop with housing pets; it also organized a donation drive with food and supplies for pets in the fire areas.
“It was huge. We had our van completely full of stuff,” Boswell said. “We had a volunteer bring his pickup with a 4- by 8-foot trailer, and another volunteer who brought his van, so we were able to get it all down there.”
Boswell said that relief groups down in the fire area have requested people to bringing stuff because they’re already overwhelmed.
“They have more than they need in goods, but they’re still taking monetary donations,” said Boswell, who suggested anyone who wants to contribute should google “LA animal shelters” and find links to donate directly.
For the donation drive, Boswell said the SYVHS had an ally in Buellton Garage,
located at Highway 246 in the shopping center where China Panda restaurant and Subway are located.
“They’ve had a bin there for people to drop off stuff, and we just picked that up to add to our stuff,” Boswell said.
Leslie Sherrill, operations manager for Buellton Garage, said the business frequently gets together with the SYVHS for adoption events and donations.
“We had an adoption drive here where they brought some pets,” Sherrill said. “We donated some of our proceeds from the day to help them out. We just love what they do and like to help, and it’s our way of giving back to the community.”
Having two entities work together like that illustrate what makes the SYV such a desirable place to live, according to Boswell.
“When you have something like this, it seems that everyone wants to come and help,” she said. “That’s what makes this such a great community.”
(Left) Ally Boswell, animal care supervisor with the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society, is shown with Playboy, an Alaskan Malamute who was sent to SYVHS from an LA-area shelter after the fires. (Right) Buellton Garage at 254 E. Hwy. 246 has been collected donations for pets affected by the recent Southern California fires. Photo by Mike Chaldu
Local girl completes missionary service
Miranda Johnson did a service mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, keeping her at home
By Joanne Clarke
For the Santa Ynez Valley Star
Miranda Johnson has just honorably completed 18 months as a service missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She is the daughter of Steve and Angie Johnson, longtime Santa Ynez Valley residents.
Miranda grew up in the Santa Ynez Valley. She attended Ballard School and Santa Ynez Valley Union High School.
There are two kinds of missionary service in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: a proselyting mission,
where you will go to a location within the United States or somewhere within 150 countries worldwide and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ; and a service mission, where you stay in your home area, and perform varying kinds of service, emulating what Jesus Christ taught. Like proselyting missionaries, service missionaries serve for up to 18 months (young women ages 19–29) or up to 24 months (young men ages 18–25). They live at home and serve locally. They serve as close to full-time as their circumstances allow. Each service missionary is provided a customized mission experience uniquely tailored to his or her talents, skills, and gifts. During their missions, it is common for service missionaries to serve in multiple assignments, including approved community and charitable organizations. Miranda had a desire to serve a mission, but because of her struggles with anxiety, she did not think she could work within the parameters a proselyting mission re -
quired. In a conversation with Lucy Liljenquist, a fellow member of the Solvang Ward, she found out that Lucy had served a service mission while living at home. That conversation led to Miranda making the decision to also serve a local service mission.
During the past 18 months, Miranda has served in the following organizations and activities: Santa Ynez Therapeutic Riding Center, Elverhøj Museum of History and Art, Bethania Lutheran Church food distribution, Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society, Santa Ynez Valley Community Outreach, Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network, and Santa Ynez Valley Union High School.
She has learned a great deal during her mission and enjoyed her many varied experiences.
Members of the Johnson family love the saying, “Proselyting missionaries are the Lord’s mouthpiece and service missionaries are His hands!”
Miranda Johnson has just honorably completed 18 months as a service missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Miranda is shown serving at the Santa Ynez Valley Therapeutic Riding Program, one of many organizations and activities during her mission. Contributed Photo
FOOD & DRINK
Restaurant Weeks, Midweek Club offer two events to draw visitors in January
The Santa Ynez Valley invites all to kick the winter doldrums at a value that comes only once a year Staff Report
What can be better than a good reason to visit the Santa Ynez Valley? Try two great reasons to visit in the new year.
The popular Midweek Membership Club (Jan. 12 to April 30) presents a limited opportunity to take advantage of a once-a-year deal to stay at the region’s best hotels, wine country inns, and more. Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks (Jan. 19 to Feb. 1), presents a tantalizing exploration of the Valley’s culinary culture at a special price. Together, Midweek Membership Club and Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks give reason to celebrate the new year with an unforgettable trip to the heart of California’s Central Coast wine country.
“Planning a New Year’s trip to the Santa Ynez Valley is the perfect way to cure the post-holiday doldrums,” says Shelby Sim, president and CEO of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley. “The Valley’s mild, sunny weather makes for a perfect winter escape all by itself. But the Midweek Membership Club and Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks — two special, once-a-year chances to experience our top dining, wine, and lodging options at affordable prices for nearly everyone — make a winter or early spring visit impossible to resist.”
The Midweek Membership Club
Weekend trips to the Santa Ynez Valley are heavenly. But a midweek visit to the Santa Ynez Valley is a truly special experience, with easy access to the region’s many wine, culinary, cultural, and outdoor experiences. The Midweek Membership Club makes a weekday trip all the sweeter.
Beginning Dec. 20, anyone who books an eligible consecutive two-night, Sunday-Thursday Midweek Membership Club stay at a qualifying lodging property — from Jan. 12 through April 30 — receives a $100 voucher upon check-in at a participating hotel. The $100 can then be used
for wine tastings, dining, shopping, activities, and other experiences during the trip. With only 100 Midweek Membership Club packages available, the popular promotion sells out quickly.
Here’s how the Midweek Membership Club works:
• Through April 30, or until all 100 Midweek Membership Club packages are sold, visitors must book at least one two-night consecutive stay, Sunday through Thursday between Jan. 12 and April 30. The stay must be booked directly with one of the Santa Ynez Valley’s qualified lodging properties. Any booking made before the promotion start date or through a third party will not qualify.
• Once booked, forward the original confirmation email to info@visitsyv.com at least 48 hours before check-in. Late entries will not be accepted.
• Receive your $100 at check-in at your qualified hotel, and use your cash to pay for wine tastings, meals, shopping, activities, and more throughout the valley.
• Only one $100 promo may be redeemed per reservation.
For more information, complete rules and
regulations, and a complete list of qualified lodging properties, or to plan and book your Midweek Membership Club visit to the Santa Ynez Valley, visit visitsyv.com/midweek/. For questions about this offer, email info@visitsyv. com.
Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks
Celebrating its 15th year, Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks has become a favorite tradition in the Valley. And why not?
The Santa Ynez Valley’s reputation as a culinary-driven destination — with imaginative chefs, deep agricultural roots, collaborative culinary culture, and cuisine that ranges from contemporary, innovative farm-to-table fare to traditional Scandinavian feasts — is as wellearned as its reputation for making world-class wines. And for two weeks, the valley’s restaurants offer the best of the region’s cuisine at an unbeatable price.
From Jan. 19 to Feb. 1, Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks will showcase the region’s culinary bounty — and being that this is the Santa Ynez Valley, the perfect wine pairings — with a variety of special three-course prix fixe price menus. Dozens of restaurants will participate,
each offering curated, chef-driven, three-course menus at prices of $30, $40, or $50, plus tax and gratuity. More than two dozen of the region’s wineries and tasting rooms will also participate at various levels, offering two-for-one tastings, special tasting flights, and discounts on bottle purchases.
Restaurant Weeks will offer a menu for every taste, from MICHELIN-starred Bell’s Los Alamos and MICHELIN-rated Coast Range to familiar wine-country favorites such as Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café and Trattoria Grappolo. Try a hot new restaurant such as Na Na Thai, The Victor Restaurant and Bar, and Whiskey ’N Rye, or celebrate the triumphant return of a legendary culinary experience at the recently reopened The Gathering Table. Dine in the vineyards at Petros Winery and Restaurant and Vega Vineyard & Farm, or turn wine country into beer country at Firestone Walker Brewing Company.
For the latest updates on Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks, including menus and participating restaurants, wineries, and tasting rooms, visit www.DineSYV.com or follow Visit the Santa Ynez Valley on Instagram,Facebook, and Twitter.
(Left) The Whiskey ‘N Rye Smokehouse restaurant, on 442 Atterdag Road in Solvang, is one of several eateries in the Santa Ynez Valley participating in Restaurant Week this year, from Jan. 19 to Feb. 1. (Right) Coast Range restaurant, on 1635 Mission Drive in Solvang, is one of several eateries in the Santa Ynez Valley participating in Restaurant Week this year, from Jan. 19 to Feb. 1. Contributed Photo
privilege of reading these remarks as I stand in for my adorable mom.”
Willi Campbell, who was Solvang’s first mayor, was a huge advocate for a new Senior Center, according to Kathleen.
“Willi was the epitome of the active senior — or as she called herself, a community activist,” Kathleen said. “She recognized that the current center was not only insufficient for her current members, but wholly inadequate.
“And here we are today turning dreams into reality. Picture a community where every senior thrives, their wisdom enriching all of us. That’s the dream we’re building today.”
After those remarks, Campbell expressed her gratitude at the many people, whose names were listed on the screen behind her. She also gave thanks to the City of Solvang for its help, after which Mayor David Brown and City Manager Randy Murphy came to the front and presented Campbell with a check for $450,000 meant for the Senior Center.
The next speaker was Linda Johansen, who found donors like Montecito Bank &
Trust and the Chumash Foundation, but the donation she remembered the best was the one from Dr. Virgil Elings, the one that put the Senior Center effort over the $1 million mark.
“Dr. Elings became my knight in shining armor, because he did step up,” Johansen said. “He delivered not once, but twice ... I went back a second time to ask if they could give more money because of the prevailing wage, and I said ‘if you could just add to your donation and get us to that million-dollar mark ...”
“I was driving halfway back to Santa Ynez when my phone rang and I had to pull the car over,” Johansen continued. “When he told me he’d donate the money, I don’t remember what I said because I was just babbling.”
So now the building begins, as the construction contract has been awarded to Urquidez Building Corporation, a general contracting firm based in Los Olivos. Chris Urquidez, owner of the firm, stated, “We are honored to build this new community center — the first of its kind in the Valley in over two decades. This state-of-the-art facility, with its flexible floor plan, spacious dining hall, and multiple meeting rooms, will serve as a hub for community gatherings and events. It truly reflects the spirit of collaboration and vibrancy that
defines our community.”
The new 5,500-square-foot, two-story building will double the size of the current facility, offering expanded resources for active aging adults and multi-generational programming. Construction is expected to be completed within 18 months.
During the construction period, the Center’s classes and activities will continue uninterrupted at the American Legion Wing. The Center currently offers over 20 weekly classes and activities, nutrition programs, community outreach initiatives, and educational events.
“One big thing we’re getting ready for is the free AARP tax preparations for all our seniors, who get help in filing,” Albertoni said. “Last year, we helped out 400 people with this program.”
For more information on the Center’s programs and services, visit www.solvangseniorcenter.org, email ssctr@verizon.net, or call (805) 688-3793 to schedule a tax preparation appointment.
About Solvang Senior Center:
The Solvang Senior Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1978, serves as the Santa Ynez Valley’s hub for active aging adults aged 55 and older. With
a mission to enhance lives through diverse programs and activities, the Center fosters connections and provides essential resources for independent living. Located at 1745 Mission Dr., Solvang, California, behind the Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall, the Center is supported by memberships, donations, and grants from foundations, businesses, and government entities. For a comprehensive list of services and events, visit www. solvangseniorcenter.org.
Kathleen Campbell (center) holds a photo of her late mother, Willi Campbell, the former Solvang mayor, while flanked by Senior Center Executive Director Ellen Albertoni (left) and Campbell’s husband Alan Hitt at the Jan. 15 groundbreaking ceremony. Photo by Mike Chaldu
GOVERNMENT MEETINGS
TUESDAY, JAN. 21
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
UNION HIGH SCHOOL
DISTRICT BOARD, 5:30 P.M.
Board Room, Administration Office, Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, 2975 Mission Drive, Solvang
For more info: www.syvuhsd.org
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION, 9 A.M.
123 East Anapamu Street, Room 17, Santa Barbara For more info: countyofsb.org
THURSDAY, JAN. 23
BUELLTON CITY COUNCIL, 6 P.M.
At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton For more info: cityofbuellton.com
MONDAY, JAN. 27
SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL,
6:30 P.M.
At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang For more info: cityofsolvang.com
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22
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
MONDAY, FEB. 3
SOLVANG PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.
At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang For more info: cityofsolvang.com
TUESDAY, FEB. 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
THROUGH SATURDAY, FEB. 1
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY RESTAURANT WEEKS
Mark your calendars! Santa Ynez
Valley Restaurant Weeks is back from Jan. 19 to Feb. 1, offering a delectable journey through our region’s finest flavors. Indulge in specially crafted prix fixe menus that celebrate local culinary artistry, perfectly paired with world-class Santa Ynez Valley wines.
Exceptional Dining Experiences:
Participating restaurants will present exclusive three-course prix fixe menus at enticing price points: $30, $40, or $50 (plus tax and gratuity).
It’s the perfect chance to sample the best our talented chefs have to offer!
Wine & Tasting Room Perks: Enhance your experience with two-forone tastings and special discounts on bottle purchases at participating wineries and tasting rooms.
Stay Connected: Get a sneak peek of menus and more by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Calling All Restaurants: Want to join the festivities? Reach out today to learn how to become a part of this celebrated event.
Don’t miss this delicious opportunity to explore the Santa Ynez Valley’s culinary delights! Please note: Participating restaurants, hours, and menus are subject to change. For more info: visitsyv.com/ restaurant-weeks/
FRIDAY, JAN. 24
QUEEN NATION AT THE CHUMASH CASINO RESORT, 8 P.M.
Queen Nation, the acclaimed tribute band dedicated to celebrating the electrifying spirit and legacy of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame music group Queen, makes its return to the Chumash Casino Resort’s Samala Show-
CALENDAR
room with a “Queen Re-Imagined Symphonic Rock Show” on Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. Tickets for the show are $20, $30 and $40. Formed in 2004, Queen Nation promotes itself as one of the most accurate re-creations of a ‘70s and ‘80s Queen concert in the United States.
At Chumash Casino Resort, 3400 Highway 246, Santa Ynez For more info: chumashcasino.com/ entertainment
SATURDAY, JAN. 25
YOGA W/ THERAPY DOGS OF SANTA BARBARA, 9:45
A.M.
Join us for a morning of yoga taught by Vivian Valentin followed by a Sound Bath and Mindfulness Meditation by our Director of Wellness Programs Karen Lee Stevens. Our therapy dogs will be on-site providing a “pawsitive” presence and calming tail wags.
After your morning sessions, stroll to the winery for a catered vegetarian lunch by Lucky Hen Larder and a glass of wine. Additional wines bythe-glass or wine tasting available for purchase.
Wellness Retreat Itinerary:
9:45 to 10:15 a.m.: Check-In 10:15 to 11 a.m.: “Doga” session on the lawn
11:15 to 11:45 a.m.: Sound Bath and Meditation
12 to 1 p.m.: Lunch and Wine at Vincent’s beautiful winery patio
What to Bring:
We will be lying down during the Sound Bath, so please bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow, and anything else that will help you feel cozy and comfortable.
Cost: $100 per person after Use Promo Code EarlyPaw for discount. Must be 21 or over
*Therapy dogs will be present throughout the event. No other dogs allowed. In the event of rain, all sessions will be held indoors.
At Vincent Vineyards, 2370 N. Refugio Road, Santa Ynez
For more info/tickets: therapydogssb. org/event-listings/
FRIDAY, JAN. 31
FOLK
ORCHESTRA
OF
SANTA BARBARA WINTER CONCERT, 7 P.M.
The Folk Orchestra of Santa Barbara will be playing at St. Mark’s-in-theValley Episcopal Church in Los Olivos. The Folk Orchestra is a 30-piece orchestra of local musicians, playing a concert that celebrates winter. Chinese plums blooming in the snow. Ancient Norwegian chants sung in the darkest night. Simon & Garfunkel bringing a smile. Haunting melodies from Schubert and Sibelius. The nyckelharpa, hurdy-gurdy, and Chinese flute join the violin, cello, accordion, harp, bagpipes, mandolins, and more for a unique experience that can’t be heard anywhere else.
Tickets cost $30 and are on sale at folkorchestrasb.com.
At St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church 2901 Nojoqui Ave., Los Olivos
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.
WINE WEDNESDAYS IN BUELLTON, 4 TO 8 P.M.
Please join us for an evening out with family fun for all in Buellton, hosted by Esfuerzo Wines and The Birria Boyz. This event will take place each Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. 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 For more info: info@esfuerzowine. com
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 fastpaced 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
