Santa Ynez Valley Star • September 19, 2023

Local veteran recalls Korean War experience

Los Alamos resident George Shaw, 92, was a radio operator during the 1950s conflict

By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

os Alamos residents can see 92-year-old George Freddie Shaw buzzing around town on his electric scooter every day of the week. But few know that he is a Korean War Army veteran and a Bronze Star Medal recipient. He has papers to prove it, but he said he never did receive the medal itself, an oversight that he says many of the veterans he feels have experienced. “It was wartime,” he said.

Born in San Luis Obispo, George attended Vista Del Mar School and the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School. After two years of high school, he went to work and then joined the Army in 1951 and was based at Fort Ord.

“The Korean War was in full steam when I joined the Army and I was shipped out to Korea right after basic training," Shaw said.

INSIDE

"It took 18 days to get there. I was a radio operator with the 35th Infantry Regiment Combat Team. I was the chief driver and radio operator for a colonel whose name I can’t remember at the moment.

“I was lucky because I didn’t see any real fighting but I carried a .45-caliber weapon in a shoulder holster along with my rifle just in case. We were also given a poison pill to use in case we were caught. The Koreans would torture you if you were caught and the army thought the pill would come in handy just in case you needed to kill yourself. But I was lucky, I was never captured."

Shaw received the Bronze Star on Nov. 12, 1951. The citation reads, “Private First-Class George F. Shaw performed his duties as a radio operator in an exemplary manner in Korea. Working directly under enemy fire, he displayed great technical skill and outstanding initiative in maintaining communications at a high level of efficiency to contribute to the success of the unit mission. Often exposing himself to the heavy mortar and artillery bombardment, he worked tirelessly through the engagement to assure the unit that the vital radio system remained open to allow contact with all friendly elements. Private First-Class Shaw’s determination and unremitting devotion to duty are in keeping with the best traditions of the American soldier.”

As it was wartime, Shaw had to deal with some unpleasant experiences.

“There was one incident where we were ordered to retrieve all of the equipment, what was left of it, and our dead brothers from a battle with Korean soldiers. It was something you had to do. But it was terrible,” he recalled. “One time I heard a shot fired and when I got back to camp one of the guys from security asked me if I had heard that shot. I said yes. He replied, ‘You were next. There was a Korean

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

News | Pg. 16

Pirates' faithful celebrate debut of Rio Memorial Stadium

News Briefs . . . . . . . . . Pg. 2

• Viking Charities Classic Car Show entries closing Sept. 20

News Pg. 4

• Solvang City Council holds off on adopting new camping ordinance

News Pg. 8

• Mission Santa Inés to benefit from California Missions Foundation grant

Education . . . . . . . . . Pg. 12

• Chumash Foundation donates $72K to six county schools for technology improvements

Sports Pg. 16

• Phelan leads the way in strong Pirate cross country start

Arts & Nonprofits Pg. 17

• 2023-2024 Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series opens this Friday Community Pg. 20

• Season of scarecrows close at hand in Solvang

Calendar Pg. 23

• Government meetings and events

Shown here is a picture of George Shaw when he first enlisted in the Army in 1951.

SOLVANG

1st Annual Viking Charities Classic Car Show entries closing Sept. 20

The Sept. 20 deadline for applications to participate in the 1st Annual Viking Charities Classic Car Show on Oct. 7 is rapidly approaching.

“We’re confident of more than 200 spectacular vehicles being on display in Solvang and competing for coveted awards,” said event co-chairman Dr. Roger Lane of Solvang. “Our team is now meeting weekly to gear up for the tremendous challenge of organizing the logistics of the entire show and judging so many great vehicles.”

Downtown Solvang will be transformed into a classic car (and motorcycle) mecca as pre-1990 impeccably restored, stock and customized vehicles of every make, model and type including hot rods, sports cars, muscle cars, vans, pickups, trucks, motorcycles and other special interest vehicles fill the streets of the city from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The VCCCS event serves as the successor to the popular, 16-year, Wheels & Windmills Car Show which concluded last year.

Admission to the car show is free to the general public. Other Saturday special features will include music throughout the day, a VCCCS beer and wine garden, and Viking burger bar as well as the famous Vikings of Solvang parade longboat for inspection and tour. A family “Poker Walk” courtesy of the Solvang Chamber of Commerce will also be offered and a 50/50 ticket raffle.

The awards ceremony will take place in Solvang Park late Saturday afternoon. To assure no bias, independent judges who are not associated with the classes they are judging, will determine awards in more than two dozen classes including muscle, sport, motorcycle and truck.

The car show is the centerpiece of three days of vehicle oriented special events taking place Fri-

day, October 6, 2023 through Sunday, October 8 in Solvang as well as neighboring Buellton and Santa Ynez.

Car show participant applications and additional information are now available of the show web site https://www.vikingsofsolvang.org/carshow.

County Supervisor Joan Hartmann announces Solvang office hours

Third District Supervisor Joan Hartmann is pleased to announce her upcoming Lompoc and Solvang Office Hours to engage with constituents and discuss matters related to County governance and community projects.

Solvang Office Hours:

• Date: Wednesday, Sept. 20

• Time: 2 to 4 p.m.

• Location: 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

Open office hours provide an opportunity for Third District residents to interact directly with Supervisor Hartmann, ask questions, offer suggestions, and gain insights into ongoing community initiatives.

Constituents are encouraged to drop in during the specified hours. However, to ensure individual appointments, residents may call in advance to reserve a time slot with Supervisor Hartmann. For additional information or appointment scheduling, please contact Office Scheduler Alex Favacho at 805-568-2192 or via email at afavacho@countyofsb.org.

For updates and additional information about Supervisor Joan Hartmann's initiatives and community engagement efforts, please visit https:// countyofsb.org/1725/Third-District.

Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People announces leadership transition

After three years of service as the CEO of Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People (PHP), Valerie A. Kissell stepped down effective Sept. 5.

“The board is extraordinarily grateful for Valerie’s leadership throughout the pandemic when human services and resources were stretched," said immediate past board president John Kuelbs. "Even while navigating the sustained challenges caused by the pandemic, she has instituted transformational expansions for the agency that will continue to benefit the community for years to come.”

During her tenure, PHP served as a center of crisis management during the pandemic and was amongst the first human service agencies to return to in-person delivery of service, including weekly food distribution in Solvang and Los Alamos, and served as the primary distributor of free COVID -19 testing kits and personal protective equipment for the Santa Ynez Valley.

The board has named Erica Jane Flores, the organization’s director of development and communications, interim CEO.

A search for a permanent replacement has launched. To view the qualifications and requirements to be considered for this role, please go to www.pachr.com/careers. If you feel this is the job for you or someone you know, forward a resume and cover letter to hr@pachr.com.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

Antique car parade led by an iconic Batmobile coming to SYV on Sept. 25

Buckle up for a time-traveling adventure as a Barris family-owned original TV Batmobile, a true automotive legend originally designed in 1966 by the late George Barris, gears up to lead a string of classic vintage cars through the streets of Buellton, Solvang, and Santa Ynez.

Organized by the Santa Ynez Chamber, Discover Buellton, Los Olivos Chamber, and Solvang Chamber in conjunction with the Antique Automobile Club of America’s Western Divisional Tour, this wonderous spectacle will take place on Monday, Sept. 25, beginning at 10 am.

Dedicated to “sharing smiles,” in addition to

some unique and rare tour cars visiting from throughout the U.S., antique gems owned by locals are also invited to join the parade route as it passes by business communities, schools and senior communities, including Solvang School, Atterdag Village and Rona Barrett’s Golden Inn and Village.

The Parade route concludes at the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum and Parks-Janeway Carriage House at 3596 Sagunto St. at 12 p.m. in a festive “free-to-the-public” event where the public will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the Batmobile and other magnificent vehicles. Gourmet box lunches are available to purchase in advance for this lunchtime event for $25 by visiting this link.

All local schools, including homeschools, are invited to participate via fun Batmobile/antique car poster/art contests, and an opportunity to schedule field trips to watch the parade and visit the cars on display. Bat-capes, participation ribbons, and other goodies will be provided to schools that participate on a first-come firstserve basis. Contact your local chamber to sign up.

Sign up to enter your classic car in the parade and/or purchase an optional gourmet box lunch to enjoy at the Carriage Museum by going to santaynezchamber.org.

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY CALIFORNIA

Scams targeting PG&E customers up 200 percent

With the number of reported scam attempts targeting Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customers nearly tripling during the first seven months of 2023 compared to this time last year, PG&E is committed to helping customers recognize the signs of a scam and avoid falling victim.

A typical sign of a scam targeting a utility customer includes a caller claiming to be from PG&E and threatening disconnection if immediate payment is not made via a pre-paid debit

Santa Barbara County commemorates 22nd anniversary of 9/11

In a solemn tribute to the fallen heroes and victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, along with county and city fire departments, held a series of memorial events on Sept. 11 to ensure that the sacrifices made 22 years ago are never forgotten.

At 6:50 a.m., the Lompoc Fire

Department began the day’s tributes at their main headquarters, Station 51. A poignant moment occurred at 6:58 a.m., the time when the South Tower of the World Trade Center collapsed 22 years ago. Flags were lowered to half-staff, and attendees observed a moment of silence. The flags remained at half-staff throughout the day. Battalion Chief Scott Nunez emphasized, “It is our pledge to never forget what happened on that day and to continue to reflect and honor those who lost their lives.”

Events unfolded at multiple locations across Santa Barbara County. The Santa Maria Fire Department held simple ceremonies at every city fire station throughout Santa Maria, inviting the public, firefighters, and emergency person-

nel to join in the remembrance.

In a ceremony that brought the community together, Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Gardens hosted the second annual 9/11 Flag of Honor Across America Memorial. Undersheriff Craig Bonner and the sheriff’s honor guard joined a coalition of state, county, and city agencies in this monumental event. The Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Teen Court program, selected as one of 60 participants across America for the National 9/11 Day Remembrance Project, played a vital role in reading the names and short biographies of 50 of the 2,983 souls lost in the Sept. 11 attacks and the Feb. 26, 1993, World Trade Center bombing.

This powerful day of remem-

brance also featured an immense American flag displayed from an extended fire department ladder truck outside of the Santa Barbara Police headquarters. Police Chief Kelly Gordon spoke emotionally about her experience as part of a search team at Ground Zero 22 years ago. Mayor Randy Rowse also addressed the gathering before the ceremony concluded with bagpipes playing “Amazing Grace.”

Notably, the Young Americas Foundation set up an impactful display at the Santa Barbara waterfront, placing approximately 3,000 flags in the sand west of Stearns Wharf and providing informational signage to educate the public about the attacks and victims.

“We were deeply moved and grateful for our community’s over-

whelming support during this solemn occasion. The unity and compassion displayed remind us that even in the face of adversity, we stand strong together,” said Santa Barbara City Fire Chief Chris Mailes.

The memorial events were attended by a broad swath of the community, from emergency service personnel to civilians, locals, and international visitors alike. A special thank you to Mayor Randy Rowse, Fire Chief Chris Mailes, and Police Chief Kelly Gordon for their meaningful contributions to the ceremonies.

The City of Santa Barbara extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined in remembering this pivotal moment in our nation’s history. We pledge to never forget.

Community and first responders gather in unity: A collage of poignant moments from the 22nd Anniversary 9/11 Memorial ceremonies across Santa Barbara County, featuring the flag-lowering ceremony, speeches by key officials, and the touching display of 3,000 flags at the waterfront. Photos courtesy of City of Santa Barbara

Solvang City Council holds off on adopting new camping ordinance

felt that if the city didn’t have shelters or services that the homeless would stay away.

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

An amended camping ordinance that was originally to be a part of the consent agenda for the Sept. 11 Solvang City Council meeting was instead tabled for further discussion after several residents attended the meeting objecting to the adoption of the ordinance during public comment.

The council had first discussed Ordinance 6-2-5 at the July 10 meeting. The ordinance reads “it is unlawful for any person to sleep or camp between the hours of one half-hour after sunset of one day, and 6:00 a.m. of the next day on any public road, public property, or any private property unless the owner or lessee of the private property gives the individual permission to do so. The section applies to sleeping and camping both inside a vehicle, and out in the open.”

In that meeting, City Counsel Dave Fleishmann pointed out that the ordinance would have trouble standing up in court, citing Martin v. Boise, a 2018 case where the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals held that cities cannot enforce anti-camping ordinances if they do not have enough homeless shelter beds available for their homeless population.

The new ordinance would remove section 6-2-5, amending section 7-3-10 and adding a new chapter 6 (camping) of title 5 (public health and safety) of the Solvang Municipal Code to establish camping regulations in the city and making a determination of exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act.

The regular meeting began with a

moment of silence for the victims of 9/11 as council was meeting on the 22nd anniversary of the terrorist attacks. After that was a proclamation from Mayor Mark Infanti marking Sept. 21 as International Peace Day.

Before addressing the consent agenda and, in turn the camping ordinance, the council heard the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Annual Report from Solvang Police Chief and Sheriff’s Lt. Mark Valencia, which led to questions about homelessness.

Councilmember Claudia Orona asked Valencia how they were dealing with the homelessness and what they do when they find illegal camping.

“Depending on the nature of call, either issue citation or arrest,” Va-

lencia said. “If they’re committing crimes, yes. If it’s mental health, well, mental health and homeless is not a crime.”

Then a speaker said, “Not a crime to be homeless, but homeless people to commit crimes, what do you when that happens?”

Valencia said it was legislation like state bill AB109, Prop 46, and Prop 57 that mandated the release of lower-level criminals that’s hindered their effort.

“We can’t take shoplifters to jail, we can only cite,” he said.

The consent agenda item eventually came, and the council pulled Item 4e, the camping ordinance for discussion, while passing the rest of the items on the agenda.

“With cities like Berkeley, Oakland, San Francisco, ‘If you build it they will come,’” he said, in a statement that would be disputed by subsequent speakers. “We haven’t built it. Not going to change anything.”

Public comment on the item featured 18 speakers, and the session took 45 minutes, with many issues brought up.

Rene Condit and her daughter Jesse Bengoa, who spoke separately, both wanted designated areas for the homeless.

John Peterson wasn’t satisfied with the 200-feet buffer zone for homeless areas from school given in the ordinance.

“I think the buffer should be greater than 200 feet, and if you have one, expand it to residential areas,” he said.

Terry Harmon and Sabine Oveson were concerned about the possibility of anyone camping using a fire that could get out of hand with all the vegetation around.

Linda Reed was one of the speakers who called back to Clarke’s comment from a few minutes earlier.

Fleishmann explained that the amended ordinance would better comply with state and federal law and make less likely it would be challenged in court.

“Boise got in trouble,” he said. “IF insufficient shelter beds cannot enforce, we don’t have enough shelter beds. New ordinance as drafted provide more tools to direct people an option; not criminalizing just addressing it.”

Councilmembers Elizabeth Orona and Dave Brown wondered if the new ordinance could increase homelessness, or as Orona put it: “It’s not an invitation for people to come in and camp?”

“Not in the least,” Fleishmann said.

Councilmember Robert Clarke

“If you build it, they will come. Who wouldn’t... we want you to protect it,” she said. “But I want to find solutions, solutions. What about safe parking? At the parks? At churches? Vets Hall?”

After public comment, the item went back to council, where Infanti moved to pull the item and hold it. Elizabeth Orona seconded, saying “there’s work to be done.”

Also, Fleishmann replied about some subjects brought up in public comment, saying the 200-foot buffer and open flame ban are already on the amended ordinance, and denied a speaker’s claim that City Manager Randy Murphy will have the authority to allow camping on private property.

The next City Council meeting will be Monday, Sept. 25.

Sheriff’s Lt. and Solvang Police Chief Mark Valenzuela give the annual Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Annual Report to the City Council on Monday, Sept. 11. City Council Screenshot

Large crowd enters council chambers to comment on ordinance, potential effects of homelessness on city

Pirates' faithful celebrate debut of Rio Memorial Stadium

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

The evening of Sept. 8 was a special one at Santa Ynez High School. Of course, it was the home season opener for the school's football team, which is always a cause for celebration on campus. However, this opener took on a special meaning.

The Pirates' game against Santa Maria High was the first one to be played at the campus field under its new name — Rio Memorial Stadium.

The school announced in May that, with the school board's approval in the books, the

stadium would be renamed in honor of father and son Carl and Jeff Rio.

Members of the Rio family, as well as Pirates head coach Josh McClurg and former long-time head coach Ken Gruendyke took part in a dedication of the new stadium name before Santa Ynez's game with Santa Maria High.

Carl's son and Jeff's brother Mike Rios addressed the crowd.

"[My dad and brother] gave of themselves and had no idea they made such an impact," Mike Rios said as he stood beside his mother, Mary Ellen, and brother, Steve. "Their reward was the love and the respect they received.

"Before my dad passed, he had one request — no special recognition, because we will be with him again someday," Mike continued.

"We are considering this a thank you for being part of Pirate football. My dad and Jeff considered this a second home."

McClurg took the mic to briefly address the crowd.

"Something we told the boys, and we say it every year," he said, choking back tears at times. "Everything we do in Pirate football is about the men that came before us, and those that will come after."

Jeff Rio was a player and 1989 graduate of SYHS who soon returned to serve on the Pirates' coaching staff in the '90s. One of the players he coached then was current Pirate head coach Josh McClurg, who proposed the renaming of the stadium for the Rios at the April Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District board meeting.

Tragically, Jeff Rio was killed in a car crash off Highway 101 in 1996. Fittingly, the celebration of life for Jeff was held at the venue that now bears his and his dad's name.

Carl Rio had been an avid supporter of the SYHS football program, but after his son's

passing did not attend a game until 1998. After he saw the Pirate players still wearing black armbands with "66" and "Rio," he decided to volunteer with the football program, becoming an equipment guy, assistant trainer, and booster member.

Unfortunately, the program lost Carl in 2016 when he passed away after a battle with cancer.

After the pregame presentation, the Pirate faithful got to hear for the first time, "Welcome to Rio Family Stadium" over the PA. And signs of the Rios could be seen all over the venue, from the "Welcome to Rio Family Stadium" T-shirts to Jeff's No. 66 memorialized on the sign above the press box, on the entrance tunnell behind the end zone — even on the sideline carts.

The Pirates honored the Rios the best way that they could — beating the visiting Saints 49-27.

Football venue dedicated under new name, which honors father and son who were vital to program

(From left) Santa Ynez High football head coach Josh McClurg, Mary Ellen Rio, Mike Rio, Erin Alexander, and Steve Rio stand at midfield for the pregame dedication of the newly named Rio Memorial Stadium.

References to Jeff Rio's no. 66, which he wore in his playing days for the Pirates, were all over the newly dedicated Rio Memorial Stadium. Photos by Mike Chaldu

Mission Santa Inés to benefit from California Missions Foundation grant

Nonprofit organization getting a $500,000 National Park Services grant to retrofit Solvang landmark

Staff Report

ASanta Barbara-based nonprofit organization is receiving $1.25 million dollars in federal matching grants to help stabilize two California missions including one in our own backyard.

Among the pair of National Park Service grants awarded to the California Missions Foundation is a $500,000 grant to structurally retrofit Mission Santa Inés in Solvang. As one of the only three California mis

connecting the ceiling and roof of the historic church to the side walls. These metal rod connections will tie the entire structure together. This is a technique used in modern retrofitting to prevent a building from collapse.

"The Santa Inés Mission is significant because of its contribution to the industrialization of Mission agriculture," said CMF Chair Michael H. Imwalle, a leading archaeologist at the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation. "The mission developed an elaborate water system with a water-powered grist mill in 1818 and a water-powered fulling mill in 1820 for processing woolen fabric. It is the only verified mechanized fulling mill in the California Mission system.

Mission Santa Inés is a vibrant tourist

Pastor at Old Mission Santa Inés. "We are honored that we can serve in such a beautiful and important piece of the history of California and the Americas. We recognize the responsibility to preserve this jewel for future generations.

"We need to reinforce our Mission roof and anchor it into the adobe walls. The recent earthquakes in Morocco, Turkey and Syria remind us that this retrofit work is urgent. We are blessed to be able to partner with CMF in this noble project."

CMF has begun to receive local support toward the required match of the grant for the work at Mission Santa Inés. The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has stepped forward with a $50,000 grant toward the match. Other local support has come from Montecito Bank and Trust, the

last 20 years to help preserve the California missions.

CMF received its first SAT grant in 2004 for Mission San Miguel in San Luis Obispo County. That mission had been severely damaged in the Paso Robles earthquake. The damage to Mission San Miguel caught the attention of Senators Diane Feinstein and Barbara Boxer. The senators encouraged the California Missions Foundation to apply for SAT grants.

In 2012, CMF also received an SAT grant for seismic work at Mission Santa Barbara. The work at Mission Santa Ins is expected to begin following the upcoming rainy season.

Please contact the California Missions Foundation for more information or if you would like to support the project.

The California Missions Foundation has received a $500,000 grant to structurally retrofit Mission Santa Inés in Solvang. Contributed Photo

Water board hits pause on flows for Scott, Shasta rivers

California Water Board delays instream flow decision; seeks interim measures for salmon support

By Christine Souza California Farm Bureau Federation

CALIFORNIA — The California State Water Resources Control Board held off on a decision to set minimum instream flows on the Scott and Shasta rivers and instead directed staff to return next month with a plan to adopt interim flow measures to support salmon.

The board last week also asked farmers, tribes and other stakeholders to work together to develop plans for long-term restoration of the salmon fishery.

“We heard a lot of commonalities among the discussions we had,” said E. Joaquin Esquivel, chairman of the state water board, during a seven-hour session on the matter. “There is disagreement on how you get to where we want, but I know this community wants to see thriving agriculture, thriving fish, and thriving tribes.

“This is a working board,” he added. “We are here to work with these issues and work with the communities that are impacted.”

Alexandra Biering, senior policy advocate for the California Farm Bureau, provided public comment, urging the board to not proceed with regulatory action. Instead, she called for allowing landowners and tribes to collaborate on better solutions.

Following the meeting, Biering said the board needed to leave some near-term protections in place but was not yet willing to initiate a process to set permanent instream flow requirements.

“This is not necessarily a win for any side but leaves open space for the parties to hammer out a long-term agreement for protecting fish, flows and the viability of the farming and ranching communities,” Biering said.

The agenda item was initiated by the Karuk Tribe’s July 1 petition, which requested the state water board use its

emergency powers to curtail water use in these watersheds to prevent the extinction of coho salmon. The petition urged the board to set permanent minimum flows.

Karuk Chairman Russell “Buster” Attebery told board members that state law gives them the authority, and they have a duty to protect fishery resources.

Attebery said the tribe’s goal is not to drive farmers and ranchers out of business. But he added, “It is really hard to overstate how important the salmon are for the Karuk people. If these fish are driven to extinction, we will lose a part of who we are.”

“The Scott and Shasta (rivers) are the heartbeat of the Klamath’s salmon production, serving as key spawning grounds,” he said.

Siskiyou County Farm Bureau President Ryan Walker was part of an agricultural panel that spoke on behalf of the region’s farmers and ranchers. He said, “The emergency regulations are a way to make sure everyone stays at the table and keeps working towards a solution.

“I think the board would much rather have a proposal from stakeholders,” added Walker, a rancher from Montague. “There’s going to be extreme voices on both sides, but I think there’s a recognition that something that is more agreed upon would work better.”

The region’s farmers were affected by curtailment of their water rights since May 2021, when Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a drought emergency. The curtailment order for the Scott and Shasta rivers, which expired Aug. 1, limits surface-water diversions and groundwater pumping, and prioritizes minimum flows to protect threatened coho and other fish.

To put an end to “combat science,” Walker suggested a framework for interim measures that bridges the gap to a future where a science-based model advances restoration. He said it is important to collaborate with other stakeholders to develop data and science, flow models and hydrologic models that direct restoration and lead to improvements for fish.

“Agriculture can be part of the solution,

but it’s not going to be the only solution,” Walker said. “We’ve got to look at what we can do to help chinook in-migration and develop scenarios that don’t penalize people that have done the conservation work, and most importantly, we need to work with our neighbors, agencies and tribes.”

Sari Sommarstrom, a retired watershed consultant in the Scott Valley community of Etna, said, “I’ve been working on trying to find that magical balance between fish and farms here for three decades.”

In discussing hypothetical models used by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Sommarstrom said, “We have real-world Scott River fish and flow data,” and suggested all parties collaborate and look at the true data for fish spawning.

“This is not dueling science. It is how we interpret that data, and the flows needed to be assessed instead of adopting a hypothetical that does not use local fish data, which we have,” Sommarstrom said. “The instream flow methodology is not intended for prescribing instream flow standards, yet it’s being promoted here as a regulatory tool.”

Fellow panelist Gary Black, a restoration and conservation consultant, farms along the Scott River. He said, “We are mindful and sympathetic, and we love a strong run of salmon. It’s our goal, too. We don’t like these droughts either and just have a difference of opinion on some of the metrics.”

Black agreed with board staff that more data about the condition of the watershed is needed.

“We should have better gauging data on all our tributaries,” he said. “That’s an area we can quickly jump on and improve.”

Siskiyou County farmer Brandon Fawaz of Etna informed the board of his investment in “countless irrigation upgrades” and how he cut back on alfalfa acreage to reduce water use.

Fawaz emphasized the need to tackle local water issues as a community.

“Tribes, communities and farmers — we all need water for fish, and trust us, no one wants that more than any of us,” Fawaz said. “Water flow without habitat won’t make fish, so I hope we can pause there and work on some things together.”

(From left) Siskiyou County farmers Brandon Fawaz and Jason Finley, county Farm Bureau President Ryan Walker, California Farm Bureau field representative Ned Coe and senior policy advocate Alexandra Biering turn out for last week’s meeting of the California State Water Resources Control Board in Sacramento. The agricultural delegation called on the board to develop an alternative to permanent flows on the Scott and Shasta rivers. Photo by Christine Souza

KICK OFF CELEBR ATION

at Esfuerzo Wednesday Wine DownWednesday 9/27 from 5 to 9 pm

PRIMER CELEBR ACIÓN

en Esfuerzo Miercoles de Vino Miercoles 9/27 de 5 a 9 pm

Ballet Folklorico Corazon deOro and Grupo Elevación, Food Trucks, Jump House & Face Painter 140 Industrial Way Buellton, CA 93427

MOVIE IN THE PARK FEATURING “COCO”

on Friday 9/29 from 6 to 9 pm

NOCHE DE PELICULA PRESENTANDO “COCO”

Viernes 9/29 de 6 a 9 pm

Music by “Estillo Movido” Popcorn, cotton candy & hot chocolate

Solvang Center Park Gazebo 1630 Mission Dr Solvang, C A 93463

HISPANIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Sunday 10/1 • Solvang City Center Park Gazebo, 12 to 8 pm

CELEBR ACIÓN DEHERENCIA HISPANA

Domingo 10/1 • Solvang City Park “Plazita”, 12 to 8 pm

allet Folklorico, Flamenco, Mariachi, Mezcal Mar tini, Grupo Elevacion, Los Anclas, Tamborazo 7 and Banda La Colonial. Food Trucks, Kids corner and more.

EDUCATION

Chumash Foundation donates $72K to six county schools for technology improvements

Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy and Dunn School are two of the 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 Foundation has donated over $70,000 to six area schools that applied for grants through its Technology in Schools Program for the 2023-24 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 two Santa Ynez Valley schools that received grants were the Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy in Santa Ynez and Dunn School in Los Olivos. They join Lompoc and Cabrillo high schools, and La Honda STEAM Academy in Lompoc, and Carpinteria High School in getting grants from the Chumash Foundation.

“We are proud to help these six schools enhance their students’ educational experience through our Tech in Schools Program,” said Kenneth Kahn, tribal chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “It’s great to see the innovative ways teachers and administrators in our community use technology to support their key programs and keep their students engaged.”

Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy was awarded $15,000, which will go toward purchasing 50 new Google Chromebooks.

“The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and their Technology in Schools Program has been a key foundational provider and supporter for our students at the Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy since 2017,” said Scott Carleton, principal for Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy. “Their benevolence over the years has provided our students with new Chrome -

books and equipped us to provide an online remote learning program during the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, their donation of $15,000 will provide Chromebooks for all our students along with classroom charging carts. Thanks to the partnership with the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and their Technology in Schools Program, our students and faculty will continue to have the technological resources and opportunities available to them to help ensure educational success.”

Dunn School was awarded $15,000, which will go toward renovating its current library space into a multimedia center, part of their efforts to educate students to their fullest potential in preparation for a life of learning and responsible leadership in society.

La Honda STEAM Academy was awarded $2,000 and will use this funding to purchase hardware for a mini projector and whiteboard project that will eliminate paper use in classrooms. The academy’s mission is to nurture curious, independent learners who demonstrate success through collaborative, challenging project-based

learning.

Cabrillo High School was awarded $10,000 and will use this funding to purchase and install a Neptune Systems monitoring system for a proposed reef exhibit in the school’s aquarium, part of the program’s Coastal Gallery Project. Through its aquarium, the school aims to promote cross-curricular, hands-on education and strives to emphasize its message of global marine awareness throughout the international community.

Carpinteria High School was awarded $14,500 and will use this funding to purchase a projector, laptops, iPads, computers and a PA system to help create a teen center. The goal of the teen center is to foster positive mental health in a safe space, where teens receive academic and emotional support by bridging the gap between education, sports and afterschool programs.

Lompoc High School was awarded $10,848 and will use this funding to help upgrade the lighting system in the Lompoc High Little Theatre. The high school was also awarded a separate $5,330 grant

that will help purchase lab equipment for science classes.

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 now issued more than $470,000 in grants to area schools.

For more information and to access applications, please visit www.chumash.gov/ foundation or call (805) 688-7997. The deadline to apply for the 2024-25 school year is April 30, 2024, and all applications must be submitted online at www.chumash.gov/foundation.

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has donated more than $25 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.

Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy was awarded $15,000 by the Chumash Foundation, which will go toward purchasing 50 new Google Chromebooks. Photo by Mike Chaldu

Buellton’s Oak Valley Elementary School opens new transitional kindergarten facilities

School district held ribbon cutting on Aug. 24

Staff Report

The Buellton Union School District announced the completion of its new transitional kindergarten facilities at Oak Valley Elementary School.

On Thursday, Aug. 24, the District held a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the construction completion at Oak Valley Elementary School, 595 Second St.

Among those attending the ceremony were members of the BUSD Board of Trustees — President Christy Nordgren, Clerk Jessie Skidmore, Trustees Elaine Alvarado, Allison Jordan, and Ryan Sullivan — Buellton City Councilmembers Elysia Lewis and David Silva; Santa Barbara County Supervisor Joan Hartmann; District Representative Carson Link from Senator Monique Limón’s office, who presented the school with a Certificate of Recognition; and various students, parents, and faculty.

The project included the construction of a

new transitional kindergarten building consisting of two classrooms with shared restroom and workroom/storage facilities. The State of California began expanding student eligibility for transitional kindergarten last year and these classrooms are meant provide perma-

nent, age-appropriate, facilities for the district’s youngest learners.

“We are pleased to celebrate this milestone for Oak Valley Elementary School,” BUSD Superintendent Dr. Randal Haggard said. “These new classrooms will have a lasting pos-

itive impact as we continue to serve our students and school community!”

The Buellton Union School District currently educates approximately 542 students in transitional kindergarten through eighth grade at two schools.

Members of the BUSD Board of Trustee, various city and county leaders, and students, parents, and faculty attended the official ribbon-cutting of Oak Valley Elementary School's transitional kindergarten facility. Contributed Photo

Loss to Mission Prep at Cal Poly drops Pirates football to 2-2

emotional home opener

Tweek was unusual on a couple of fronts.

Mission Prep on Sept. 14 was played on a Thursday night in stead of the traditional Friday. And second, the game was played at a college stadium: Cal Poly's Alex Spanos Stadium, where the Royals are playing their home games this year.

Santa Ynez scored four touchdowns in the last eight minutes of the third quarter, helped in part by good field position created by the defense, including an interception by Bryson Welby that set up Pritchard's

Pritchard, who completed 14 of 22 passes for 226 yards, threw two scoring passes to Beard, who finished with 121 yards receiving, and another to Vince Casey, a 49-yarder, "Hats off to our offense tonight," McClurg said. "Coach [Greg] Gandolfo, our OC, did a phenomenal job calling the game tonight. Dallas DeForest ran his butt off tonight; Daulton Beard's Daulton Beard — he toughed it out this week, I'm proud of him, and our young quarterback [Pritchard] struggled a couple of times, but made

And McClurg was also pleased with how his team came out on a night to remember two important figures connected to the program as he told his players in the post-game huddle "You guys did the Rios proud tonight."

The Pirates return home this Friday, Sept. 22, for their Homecoming game against Righetti, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. at Rio Memorial Stadium.

The Santa Ynez High football team comes out of the tunnel for its home opener against Santa Maria on Sept. 8. The Pirates went on to defeat the Saints 49-27. Photo by Mike Chaldu

Phelan leads the way in strong Pirate cross country start

Team captain finishes 27th among girls at Morro Bay Invitational, finishes fifth at UCSB Invitational

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

The Santa Ynez cross country team overcame a few setbacks and continued its impressive start to the season at the Morro Bay Cross-Country Invitational on Sept. 9. The Lady Pirates team, led by Captain Brooke Phelan, showcased its determination and talent in a field of over 400 girls from various schools.

Phelan clocked a time of 18:36 for the Pirates, finishing in 27th place overall. Her consistent and strong performance has undoubtedly been a driving force behind the team's success this season.

The JV division also saw standout performances from the Lady Pirates runners. Jaslene Perez's earned a medal, claiming the 13th spot out of 101 runners. Cross country head coach Jennifer Sell said Perez's determination to excel in every race is a testament to her commitment to improvement.

One of SYHS's most exciting moments of the day came from freshman Clayton Hardy, also known as "Rabbit," in his very first race. Clayton started the JV race leading the pack for the first 1,000 meters. Despite dropping back slightly, he managed to secure a 47th-place finish out of 220 runners.

Sell and assistant coach Stacy Vogel were impressed with Clayton's performance and said they were excited about his future in the sport.

A week earlier, Sept. 2, Phelan also shined, finishing fifth overall among girls at the UCSB Invitationals. The sophomore put in a time of 21:16.46 on the 3-mile course. But the big Pirate highight of the event was junior Josue Salinas finishing first out of 160 runners in the boys race with a time of 17:11.54.

Girls golf

On Sept. 11, the Pirates played in the third girls golf Mountain League tourna-

ment at the Par 72 Cypress Ridge Golf Club in Arroyo Grande.

The Pirates finished fourth of eight teams with a team score of 524 and were led by Mackenzie Phelan with a 90. Addison West was the only other SYHS to finish in double digits with a 96. The medalist of the match was Maya London of Arroyo Grande with a 76 and the Eagles won the team competition with 419.

Santa Ynez also placed fourth a week earlier in the Mountain League tournament at La Purisima in Lompoc on Sept. 5. In 9-hole play, Phelan was again the top

Pirate with a 45, while Caralyn Barber shot 50, and Addison West a 56.

In three Mountain League tournaments so far as of Sept. 11, Santa Ynez two fourthplace and one fifth-place finish.

In between the two Mountain League affairs, the Pirates took a couple of dual 9-hole wins at Alisal River Course over Lompoc (264-309) and Bishop Diego (260-328). Phelan (44) was the medalist against Lompoc, and Katherine Becerra (50) took top honors against Bishop Diego.

Girls tennis

On Sept. 12, the Pirate girls tennis traveled to Clovis for the California Tennis Classic, going 3-1 to take home the consolation medal. The squad played against Valley Christian (San Jose), Liberty (Bakersfield), Vacaville and Garces (Bakersfield).

Keegan Withrow, Morea Naretto, Kate Mazza were each able to win two matches, as was the doubles team Grace Sugich and Danielle Hyland.

A few days before Clovis, on Sept. 5 to be exact, SYHS posted its second win of the year, beating Templeton 6-3.

In doubles, Danielle Hyland and Violet Quinney fell behind 5-1 in the the first set before rallying to win that one 7-5, and then cruise to a 6-1 win in the second.

Paige Halme and Kate Mazza also had a tough first set and easy second set.

In singles, Santa Ynez took four of six matches, with Mazza, Naretto, Halme, and Sugich getting the wins.

On Sept. 12, the Pirates fell to Arroyo Grande to fall to 0-2 in the Mountain League and 2-4-1 overall.

Santa Ynez took two of the three doubles matches. Head coach Jennifer Rasmussen said Natalie O'Shaughnessy and Paige Halme played a great game to pull ahead and beat AG's No. 2 doubles, 9-7, in an 8 game pro-set, while the sophomore doubles team of Hyland and Sugich took the second doubles win. Naretto took the third win for SY (6-2, 6-4) playing in the third singles spot.

The Pirates played host to St. Joseph on Thursday, Sept. 14, and will return to the court Tuesday, Sept. 19, at Paso Robles, and Thursday, Sept. 21, at Lompoc.

Santa Ynez High cross country runner Brooke Phelan (in orange) competes in the Morro Bay Invitational on Sept. 9. Phelan finished 27th in the race with a time of 18:36. Contributed Photo

ARTS & NONPROFITS

2023-24 Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series opens this Friday

First performance features Colburn School’s Ensemble in Residence Quartet Integra, from Japan

Yamamoto, viola; and Anti Tsukiji, cello, will perform the "String Quartet No.17 'The Hunt'” by Mozart, "La Souris sans Sourire" by Donatoni, and "String Quartet No. 1" by Brahms.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://smitv.ejoinme.org/SYVConcert-Series-TicketOrder.

Karen Dreyfus, viola

Ani Aznavoorian, cello

Nico Abondolo, double bass

Robert Cassidy, piano

Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at 7 p.m. Concert program to be announced

John Holiday, countertenor

Kevin Miller, piano

LOS OLIVOS — The 2023-24 Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series kicks off this Friday, Sept. 22, with Quartet Integra, an award-winning string quartet out of Japan, at St. Mark’s in-the-Valley Episcopal Church in Los Olivos. It is the first concert of the 43rd season and features world-renowned musicians from around the globe.

The Quartet Integra is an internationally honored string quartet of prominent young artists from the renowned Colburn School. Its members include Kyoka Misawa, violin; Rintaro Kikuno, violin; Itsuki

SEASON CONCERT SCHEDULE

Friday, Sept. 22, at 7 p.m.

Quartet Integra

Sunday, Nov. 19, at 4 p.m.

Schubertiade – Part 1

Die Winterreise

Ben Lowe, Baritone

Robert Cassidy, Piano

Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, at 4 p.m.

Schubertiade – Part 2

Piano Trio in B-Flat Major, Op. 99

Piano Quintet in A Major, D. 667 “Trout”

Kristin Lee, violin

Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 7 p.m. Concert program to be announced

Roger Roe, English horn and oboe

R. Kent Cook, piano

Season and individual concert tickets are on sale at smitv. ejoinme.org/SYV-Concert-SeriesTicketOrder. General admission tickets are $25, patron tickets are $50, and student tickets are FREE. St. Mark’s in-the-Valley provides an intimate concert experience with seating for just over 100 at 2901 Nojoqui Ave., a block from the flagpole in the center of Los Olivos. St. Mark’s is pleased to offer the SYV Concert Series as a community arts

enrichment program. All are invited to attend these non-sectarian, nonreligious concerts.

For more information, contact Series Coordinator Linda Burrows at 805-705-0938 or syvconcerts@smitv.org

Formed in 1926 and serving the

Santa Ynez Valley at its present location in downtown Los Olivos since 1979, St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley practices a spacious Christianity and welcomes people of all faiths or none. For more information, please visit SMITV.org.

Quartet Integra, an award-winning string quartet out of Japan, will be featured in the 2023-24 season debut for the Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series at St. Mark's-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church in Los Olivos. Contributed Photo

Oral interviews an overlooked part of family research

our present, and our future … conjure up another kind of traffic, one that crosses the border of academic disciplines and finally confronts personal experience.”

GENEALOGY TIPS

By Sheila Benedict

Remember, to do the research effectively, one record source is NEVER enough. One source that does not always get enough attention because of all the latest technology are oral interviews.

John Demos, author of "Past, Present, and Person: The Family and the Life Course in American History" (New York: Oxford University Press, 1986, p 19), wrote that “…the unceasing traffic between our past,

One of the presentations I offer to genealogical and historical societies is: “Oral History: Separating Fact from Fiction.” It is important to understand that the interviews are just one part of the full menu of sources genealogists use regularly. However, as with all sources, and in this case maybe even more so, is that an interview most of the time is about half fact and half fiction. Of course, those percentages can vary.

Given current parts of a complete genealogy, DNA can play a major role in separating fact from fiction. Many times, the person being interviewed just does not think a close relative was anything but fully truthful. So sorry to disappoint you, and not to tarnish your visions, not everything is 100 percent reliable. It is important to know that the way

the oral interview is done from interest to interview to completion is that the interviewer should instill confidence in the interviewee to show you are helping him or her keep the family history to be one of quality and importance for future generations. There is no question being able to talk to someone who might have first-hand knowledge of an event or events can greatly enhance the possibility of getting verifiable data.

The interviewing techniques starts with remembering that oral interviews are NOT a dialogue. The interviewer should ask the questions and listen to the answers. Listening is vital! If a follow-up is needed, the full response should be allowed to continue before asking any additional questions. If no follow-up to the answer is needed, the interview then proceeds according to the prepared questionnaire. Open-ended questions are important so that the desired information is able to be verified and analyzed. Ones that can be

answered with a yes or no most often are very hard, if at all, to be followed up. Legal Issues: Before beginning an interview, even if it is a close family member, a formal release is necessary so that the information can be used in a family history, and there is a copyright release for the interviewer to use it without any legal problems in the future.

A really excellent source of information is the website for the Oral History Association – www.oralhistory.org. They always have the latest information available about doing an oral interview. Some of the topics are interview preparation, equipment to use, conducting the interview, and most important is access availability for future generations. Happy Fall 2023 everyone. It will be Halloween before we know it!!!

Copyright ©2023, Sheila Benedict; All Rights Reserved

Email: benedictresearchservices@gmail.com

No reproductions without prior written permission

Get more free-spirited for the fall

ELNA'S FASHION CHATTER

By Sue Manning

Fashion can sometimes seem intimidating and inaccessible. We think we need the "total" look, but not all things belong together. Fall gives us the option of being free-spirited, so feel free to mix and match! Forget the norm; mix prints, textures, and colors.

Look for leather, earth tones, plush textures, tapestries, florals, and jewelry with a bold look. Elna's is a merging of fashion, quality, and versatility. I take my clue from current trends, putting the freshness of streetwear with sophisticated international design for a unique look. The key phrase for Elna's is "attainable style for all occasions, regardless of age, body type, or look."

Our vision is forever young with effortless street style, timeless beauty, and mixing past inspiration with present innovation. If you are looking for a collection that encompasses just about every piece a girl could need in her wardrobe, look no further than Jess & Jane.

The key quality customers rave about is the super soft feel. That gives them the latest trends without sacrificing comfort. We proudly carry Jess & Jane apparel, so stop

in and you'll be sure to find something that suits you.

There are new rules on wearing scarves. The thin scarf can be considered an updated take on a choker. It surrounds the neck, but cascades in any direction the wearer desires. Play with color, textures and patterns, and don't try to match your outfit, rather enhance it with this graphic, bold accent.

In a tough retail market, we pride ourselves on being very customer-oriented. Stop in and see what I mean. If you have a specific top, skirt, or outfit that needs a face lift, come see us. All our associates are personal shoppers for you. No guessing about size — you actually try the garments on and take them home with you.

Elna's Dress Shop is located at 1675 Copenhagen Drive in the heart of Solvang. We are open Mondays, closed on Tuesdays, open Wednesdays Thru Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you need to call us, our phone number is (805) 688-4525.

Our fabulous $5, $10, $15 once-a-year 3-Day Danish Days Sale takes place Sept. 15-17. It is the sale that everyone waits for. Don't miss out — mark you calendars for it now. The racks are in the back and the savings are fantastic. I look forward to seeing you.

The Jess & Jane clothing line is available at Elna's Dress Shop. Photo by Mike Chaldu

Season of scarecrows close at hand in Solvang

Businesses to display their scary figures for the city’s 14th annual Scarecrow Fest and Contest

Staff Report

Solvang will welcome the season in true fall style as the village kicks off the 14th annual Scarecrow Fest and Contest on Sunday, Oct. 1.

During the monthlong Scarecrow Fest, which concludes on Halloween (Tuesday, Oct. 31), Solvang businesses and organizations will participate in the contest by featuring a scarecrow of their own creation posted at their location. The 2023 festival includes the use of QR codes and a digital voting system, as well as using traditional paper maps and ballots.

Locals, tourists, and area merchants may vote on the contest’s website (www. SYVscarecrows.com) for

Solvang scarecrow winners in six different categories: Best Scarecrow Photo Op, Best Use of Recycled Materials, Best Use of Business Theme, Most Danish, Spookiest, and Most Humorous. Scarecrow Maps will also be available on the website and inside local businesses, along with the corresponding QR codes.

Once this year’s Best Solvang Scarecrow has been chosen, the ultimate winner will be announced and celebrated on Thursday, Nov. 9 at Firestone Walker Brewing Company,

located at 620 McMurray Road in Buellton. The overall winner will receive the contest’s exclusive, handcrafted trophy — the Harvest Cup (made by famed blacksmith Hans Duus), which they may keep on display in their place of business until the conclusion of the following year’s contest. Buellton Veterinarian Clinic, dedicated to helping provide the best quality of life for your pets using all methods of healing and wellness available, was awarded the 2022 Harvest Cup.

“This is the 14th year that the [Scarecrow] contest is being celebrated in Solvang, and other Santa Ynez Valley towns have embraced the ‘Fest.’” said Tracy Beard, executive director of the Solvang Chamber of Commerce. “The more that each town gets into this, the better the experience for both locals and visitors, whose community involvement, and visits, respectively, benefit the local economy of the entire Valley.”

Need assistance in building your scarecrow? The Chamber is hosting two

NAME:

ADDRESS:

SUBSCRIPTIONS NOW AVAILABLE!

Get Santa Ynez Valley Star delivered directly to you.

Your subscription will begin with the first issue after payment received and continue for one year.To subscribe, email amberly@ santaynezvalleystar.com, visit us online at santaynezvalleystar.com, or fill out the provided form to the right and mail to: PO Box 1594, Solvang, CA 93463

SYV Scarecrow Workshops, to help entities with their scarecrow creations. The workshop dates are Sept. 24 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and Sept. 25 (3 to 6 p.m.) at Solvang Veterans Hall and offers an opportunity for anyone to participate. For more details go to syvscarecrows.com/calendar/11889-syvscarecrow-workshop.

The six different Solvang Scarecrow Fest voting categories mentioned above were selected through a conscious effort to nurture friendly competition and community among Solvang locals, to highlight the unique traits that Solvang possesses, and to encourage mindful, eco-conscious creativity. Past years’ Scarecrow Fests have received far-reaching publicity, with visitors coming from as far away as Alaska.

Businesses and organizations throughout Solvang are invited to participate in the Scarecrow Fest and Contest; participation in the contest is $25. Entry forms for the 2023 Solvang Scarecrow Fest need to be returned to the Solvang Chamber by Monday, Sept. 25 for participating scarecrows to be included on the map.

Questions about the 2023 Solvang Scarecrow Fest plans may be directed to the Solvang Chamber at mitzi@ solvangchamber.com. The Chamber can also provide prospective participants with further contest details, participant entry forms, and “Scarecrow Tips & Tricks”. Updated information about this year’s Solvang Scarecrow Fest will continue to be posted atSYVscarecrows.com.

CITY/STATE/ZIP:

TELEPHONE:

EMAIL:

CREDIT CARD:

EXPIRATION/CCV:

SIGNATURE:

Dana V. Wines of Solvang was one of many to have display for the 2022 Scarecrow Festival with its "Nightmare Before Christmas" display. Photo Courtesy of Solvang Chamber of Commerce

NEWS BRIEFS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

card, digital payment mobile application, or other methods of money transfer. As a reminder, PG&E will never send a single notification to a customer within one hour of a service interruption and will never ask customers to make payments with a pre-paid debit card, gift card, any form of cryptocurrency, or instant mobile payment applications, like Zelle® or Venmo.

During the first seven months of 2023, reports of scams targeting PG&E customers increased nearly 200 percent compared to last year.

Scammers can be convincing and often target those who are most vulnerable, including senior citizens and low-income communities. They also aim their scams at small business owners during busy customer service hours. However, with the right information, customers can learn to detect and report these predatory scams by visiting www.pge.com/scams or by calling 1-833-500SCAM.

For more information about scams, visit pge. com/scams or https://consumer.ftc.gov/scams.

LOCAL VETERAN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

soldier lying in wait to kill the next guy to come around the corner, and that guy was you.’ That was my lucky day!"

Shaw also remembered his times with the unidentified colonel.

“One day the colonel asked me if I wanted to go up in a jet for a little ride and I said, ’No, thank you, sir. It might just be the day that that pilot’s number is up,’” he recounted. “The Colonel and I would go all over the place, to Seoul where the Navy and the Air Force were stationed. Both of those outfits had real good food, but the Army’s food wasn’t that great. But we made it.”

Shaw was in the Army for three years and spent 10 months in Korea. When he got back stateside, he said he was stationed at Camp Cooke, which is now Vandenberg Space Force Base.

“When my enlistment was up, I returned to ranching, working at Cornelius & Sons Cattle Company in Santa Ynez. They had leased ranch property all over the Valley,” said Shaw.

“I was involved with cattle practically all my life. I enjoyed working with cattle. I made a good living and we worked, rain or shine. I worked at the Western White House when Raymond Cornelius owned it. He sold it to President Reagan, you know. I’m a big fan of Reagan,” he said, pointing to a calendar on his wall displaying a photo of the late president.

After leaving Cornelius & Sons, Shaw went to work at Janeway, making up and

cleaning out campsites for the Rancheros.

“I worked with the Rancheros for many, many years, but I was not a member of the Rancheros, just an employee,” he said.

Shaw also worked for Hutchison Fencing and took care of the Los Alamos Cemetery for 20 years.

“I still go to the cemetery every day to visit my wife, Charlene, who passed away on March 14, 2014,” he said. “I was married to her for 42 years and had four stepchildren.

“Every day I go around town on my scooter for about two hours taking different streets, up and down and around town, then head back up Centennial Avenue and home. I see different people walking their dogs and jogging and people say hello and wave hello at me. I love living in Los Alamos. It’s nice and quiet and everyone is very nice and friendly."

On his 90th birthday, in the middle of COVID, and to his utmost surprise, dozens of local veterans and patriots in cars and on motorcycles surprised Shaw with a drive-by veteran vehicle salute in front of his home which was organized by Welcome Home Military Heroes.

“I watched my birthday parade go by in front of my home,” said Shaw. “That was really nice of them to do that for me. I really enjoyed it.”

Shaw is a charter member of the Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge, a member of the Legion, a lifetime member of the VFW, a member of the Los Alamos Men’s Club, the Los Alamos Senior Center, and a Los Alamos treasure.

In this snapshot from Germany at the USO, Shaw (third from left) and a colleague are treated very kindly by the nice ladies. Contributed Photo

George Shaw relaxes in his backyard at his home in Los Alamos. Shaw, 92, who's lived in the Santa Ynez Valley for most of his life, served in the Korean War.

Contributed Photo

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 20

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

At Community Services District Building, 1070 Faraday St.

For more info: sycsd.com

THURSDAY, SEPT. 21

SOLVANG DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE, 5 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, 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, SEPT. 25

SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL, 6:30 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 27

LOS ALAMOS COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT, 6 P.M.

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

For more info: losalamoscsd.com

THURSDAY, SEPT. 28

BUELLTON CITY COUNCIL, 6 P.M.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

TUESDAY, OCT. 3

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

At Betteravia Government Center, 511 Lakeside Pkwy, Santa Maria

For more info: countyofsb.org

EVENTS

SATURDAY, SEPT. 23

HARVEST PARTY PRESENTED BY ATTERDAG VILLAGE, 2 TO 6 P.M.

Atterdag Village will celebrate the Second Annual Harvest Party Fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 23. Join us for the festivities at The Duck Club Santa Ynez. It will be a memorable day

CALENDAR

of good cheer with beverages overlooking the lake, savory food, a spirited auction, and live entertainment. We have table and individual tickets available for purchase. If you are interested in sponsorship, go to peoplewhocare.com/ harvestpty/.

For more information, call Nancy Purdom at (805) 688-3263, Ext. 2404, or go to our website at peoplewhocare.com

At The Duck Club Santa Ynez

For more info: Nancy Purdom (805) 688-3263; peoplewhocare.com

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, SEPT. 23 & 24 SYV SCARECROW WORKSHOP, 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. (SATURDAY) AND 3 TO 6 P.M. (SUNDAY)

Need assistance in building your scarecrow?

Join us for a two-day Build Your Scarecrow event to celebrate the 14th year of the SYV Scarecrow Festival. You can work alone, or bring a friend and work together to create your very own scarecrow. Your creation will add artistic whimsy to Solvang in the month of October. All materials to build and create a scarecrow are provided. However, you are welcome to bring any items such as hats, sunglasses, fancy buttons, clothes, or outfits, which will add your special touch to your scarecrow.

At Solvang Veterans Hall, 1745 Mission Road, Solvang

For more info: syvscarecrows.com

MONDAY, SEPT. 25

Santa Ynez. Part of the Antique Automobile Club of America’s Western Divisional Tour, this wonderous spectacle will take place on Monday, Sept. 25, ending at the Santa Ynez Carriage Museum at 3596 Sagunto St. in Santa Ynez, where a “free-to-the-public” event where the public will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the Batmobile and other magnificent vehicles.

For more info: santaynezchamber.org

THURSDAY TO SUNDAY, SEPT. 28 TO OCT. 1

For more info: (805) 688-7997; chumash.gov/ powwow

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ANNUAL TOOL SALE, 8 A.M. TO 4 P.M.

The Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church will be holding its Annual Tool Sale at the church from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. All kinds of tools will be available, including building, yard, auto, electrical, and hand tools. Cash sales only. At Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church, 1825 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang

ONGOING

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

Join us indoors on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.

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

ANTIQUE AUTOMOBILE CLUB OF AMERICA PARADE, 10 A.M.

Buckle up for a time-traveling adventure as a Barris Family-owned original TV Batmobile gears up to lead a string of classic vintage cars through the streets of Buellton, Solvang, and

TASTE OF THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

Brought together by two of the West’s most respected travel brands — Visit the Santa Ynez Valley and Sunset Magazine — the unique event showcases the best of the region. More than 100 restaurants, wineries, tasting rooms, breweries, and distilleries will collaborate for more than a dozen main and ancillary events set in and around the distinct communities that make up the Santa Ynez Valley — Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, and Solvang. This year, 5 percent of all ticket sales for every Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley event benefits People Helping People, a local nonprofit that is a primary provider of human and social services in the region. For more info: TasteSYV.com

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, SEPT. 30 & OCT. 1

SANTA YNEZ CHUMASH INTERTRIBAL POWWOW, 10 A.M. TO 10 P.M. (SATURDAY) & 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M. (SUNDAY)

The Chumash Intertribal Powwow is a 2-day event, hosted in October in Santa Ynez, CA. Over 300 Native American dancers and singers representing many of the tribes from Canada and the United States, attend annually to participate socially and competitively.

At the corner of Meadowvale Road and Highway 246 in Santa Ynez

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

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

The original Batmobile is the featured attraction for the Antique Automobile Club of America Parade going through Santa Ynez Valley on Monday, Sept. 25. Contributed Photo

Wine and food lovers will again have a Taste of Santa Ynez Valley as More than 100 restaurants, wineries, tasting rooms, breweries, and distilleries will collaborate for the weekend-long event. Contributed Photo