YOUR FULL SERVICE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY HEARING CARE PROVIDER
Offering hearing tests and hearing aid sales programming/maintenance both in office or from the comfort of your own home. We work with all top hearing aid manufacturers.
Complimentary hearing screening and otoscopic exam.
Hearing aids at no cost to all Cencal Health members.
Contracted with Medicare
Melissa Alexander, Au D. CCC-A Doctor of Audiology
Formerly of House Ear Clinic, Dr. Melissa Alexander has become one of the top audiologists in the Los Angeles area. She is passionate about providing highly individualized care and educating her patients on the latest hearing devices, including digital hearing aids, invisible hearing aids, sound therapy for tinnitus management and bluetooth technology.
The Investment Issue
When you hear the word “invest,” what comes to mind? Do you immediately think of finances? Or perhaps how you invest your time? Maybe future planning comes to the surface. Or are you reflecting with gratitude, knowing that past investments have paid off and you’re now reaping the rewards? No matter where your mind takes you, the idea of investment is bound to spark emotion.
We invest in many ways—our community, relationships, finances, and health—all with the hope of creating a lasting impact. Supporting local businesses, schools, and organizations strengthens the fabric of our towns. Volunteerism and mentorship help build a better future. Financial investments allow us to grow wealth, achieve long-term goals, and secure peace of mind. Perhaps the most meaningful investment of all is the time and energy we dedicate to those we love.
But investing isn’t just about what we put in—it’s about what we build. Whether it’s a career, a nest egg, a thriving local economy, or deep-rooted relationships, our efforts shape the future. The choices we make today determine the opportunities we’ll have tomorrow.
In this issue, we explore different facets of investment—from personal finance to professional growth and community impact. We begin by highlighting some of our favorite local spots perfect for spending time together and making meaningful connections. Then, we sit down with Christina Nelson, the fearless leader of Pacific HR, to learn how she built a thriving business. Leslie Swartwood shares expert insights on wealth management and where to begin.
Invest wisely. The rewards will follow. Go Pirates!
SARA DEMARCUS, PUBLISHER
@SANTAYNEZVALLEY_CITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Sara DeMarcus | sara.demarcus@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Matt DeMarcus | matthew.demarcus@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Drew Stephens
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockered, Brianna Haley, Sara DeMarcus, Matt DeMarcus
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Becca Nuss, Christian Rodriguez, Christine Photography, Janie Jones, Life N Light, Matt DeMarcus
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: A couple enjoying themselves in the backyard of Saarloos and Sons. 2: A group of Valley families enjoying a trip to the Santa Barbara zoo. 3: Congratulations to the recently married couple! 4: Future Perfect and Loubud winemakers enjoying themselves at El Paseo Courtyard in Santa Barbara. 5: c&e fine jewelry enjoying themselves at a local pop-up. 6: A true SYV story... children growing up on the ranch, the vines growing alongside them. 7: Another happy customer finding their favorite album at Off The Record in Solvang!
Want
Tomatomania’s Show is Expanding to Include Cut Flowers
and Vegetables!
Tomatomania, hosted by Forage Florals in Santa Ynez and curated by The Starter Farm, returns April 5-6 with an expanded selection of over 50 tomato varieties, plus specialty peppers, eggplants, herbs, and cut flowers. The event promotes locally tested plants suited for Santa Barbara County. Free gardening classes will be offered, and featured tomatoes include Persuasion and Sart Roloise. The event runs from 10 am to 4 pm and is free to attend.
Photography by @thestarterfarm
Santa Ynez Valley Family School: Bounty of the Valley
SYV Family School is celebrating 50 years of educational excellence at Bounty of the Valley! Gather with five generations of alumni, current families, and community supporters at Santa Ynez Valley Family School for an evening of games, auctions, music, and dancing. Enjoy a delicious dinner by Valley Piggery and local wines and brews. With 350 guests expected, it’s sure to be a fun and memorable night!
Scan to read more
Pure & Local: Small-Batch Honey from Flying V Apiaries
Flying V Apiaries is a small, family-run farm producing raw, natural honey and beeswax products in Northern Minnesota and Santa Barbara County, California. Every jar comes straight from the hive, hand-packaged with care. Their small-batch honey captures the essence of the countryside, bringing pure, local sweetness to your table. Find them at local markets and shops, and experience the difference of honey made with love.
Time
ARTICLE BY MATT DEMARCUS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Amazing local spots to spend time with your favorite people
Together
Few things are more rewarding than spending quality time with loved ones. Now that spring is in full bloom, it’s the perfect time to step outside, soak in the valley’s natural beauty, and explore new experiences with family and friends. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back afternoon or an adventurous outing, here are three fantastic local spots to gather and make lasting memories.
Roblar Winery Photo by Becca Nuss
ROBLAR WINERY
There truly is no other winery like Roblar. Their extensive lineup of bold and delectable wines paired with their farm-to-table brunch, lunch, and dinner offerings make it unequivocally one of the best of the SYV. This gorgeous 21-acre vineyard perfectly encapsulates the rustic authenticity that our valley possesses. Their farm stand is a fantastic place to grab some farm fresh vegetables to go. The rustic barn and facility flow seamlessly into the picturesque landscape everyone so understandably enjoys.
CACHUMA LAKE
Cachuma Lake has truly transformed into one of the best destinations in the SYV. With the addition of the Hook’d Bar and Grill, the lake has become a place to bring your friends and family, even if you’re not into fishing. While enjoying a meal, be sure to catch a live show from bands like Out of the Blue or the Traveling Hurtados. There are hiking trails all over, the scenery can’t be beat, and there are so many places for the kids to run and play.
GAVIOTA BEACH
As you emerge from the canyon on southbound Highway 101, you are met with the first glimpse of the Pacific Ocean and what a beautiful sight it is. Gaviota State Beach is the first beach you come to, and it has become one of the better beaches over the years. The vast amount of sand makes it a fun and easy beach to walk with the rustic pier, although I wish it were still operational. If you desire something a little more challenging, there are several hikes right in the area: the Gaviota Wind Tunnels and Gaviota Peak. One thing kids love is exploring the beach during a low tide. Gaviota State Beach has many great options for kids and active adults alike.
Gaviota Beach
Photography by Matt DeMarcus
Cachuma Lake
Photography by Matt DeMarcus
Pacific HR
The Unsung Investment in Business Growth
ARTICLE BY SARA DEMARCUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTIAN RODRIGUEZ
Photography by Christine Photography
Pacific HR has been the silent force behind countless businesses for over three decades, helping them navigate the complexities of payroll, human resources, compliance, and benefits. Founded in 1989, this woman-owned enterprise has evolved from a payroll and workers’ compensation service provider into a fully integrated HR partner for businesses of all sizes. In an increasingly complex regulatory environment, Pacific HR is an invaluable investment for companies looking to scale, protect their workforce, and thrive.
The inception of Pacific HR is a story of reinvention. Founder Christina Nelson, restless in her career as a computer analyst, sought a new path before starting a family. What began as a small payroll service has transformed into a dynamic HR firm addressing everything from benefits administration to compliance with California’s ever-evolving labor laws. Adapting to shifting legal landscapes, Pacific HR ensures businesses stay compliant while remaining focused on growth. The pandemic was a defining moment, forcing the company to pivot swiftly, tackling emergency rules and executive orders to safeguard clients and their employees.
Pacific HR serves various industries, from tradesmen to wineries and businesses, with 1 to 250 employees. Many start with simple payroll needs but quickly realize the value of complete HR services. California’s regulatory demands make expert HR services essential, ensuring compliance while fostering productivity and profitability. A unique niche close to the company’s heart is the nonprofit sector. Local organizations like The Unity Shoppe, Nature Track, and Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People benefit from Pacific HR’s dedicated support, allowing them to focus on community-driven missions.
In an industry where large payroll companies offer impersonal services, Pacific HR stands out with its high-touch, personalized approach. Clients and their employees have direct access to the team, fostering open communication. This engagement ensures that employment issues, from workers’ compensation claims to compliance matters, are handled efficiently and empathetically. Unlike larger firms, Pacific HR sees itself as a partner, not just a service provider.
While maintaining a personal approach, Pacific HR embraces technology to enhance efficiency. Its integration of iSolved, an
Melissa Redell of The Solvang Bakery
award-winning human capital management platform, streamlines everything from payroll to benefits administration. The company is also exploring AI tools in HR to improve service delivery while keeping the human element at the core. Continuous learning and adaptation to technological advancements ensure that Pacific HR remains at the forefront of industry innovation.
Pacific HR’s impact on clients is both tangible and profound. One client started with a part-time employee in 1996 and grew into a $30 million enterprise with 37 employees across eight states. Another success story is a solar company that expanded statewide with Pacific HR’s management of certified payrolls and reporting and tripled its workforce. Studies show that businesses in PEO arrangements grow 7-9% faster, experience 10-14% lower turnover, and are 50% less likely to fail. These figures underscore the significant return on investment that Pacific HR provides.
At the heart of Pacific HR is a culture built on empathy, clear communication, and strong client relationships. As a woman-owned business, Pacific HR champions women-led enterprises like the Women Winemakers & Culinarians Foundation, of which Christina sits on the board. Its leadership fosters collaboration and support within the firm and the broader business community. Celebrating initiatives like International Women’s Day, Pacific HR continues to advocate for female entrepreneurship and leadership.
The ability to adapt has been key to Pacific HR’s longevity. Expanding
If you would like more information, please visit http://www.pachr.com or call 805-686-1522.
Pacific HR, Inc., located at 2028 Village Lane, Suite 205, Solvang, CA, is a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) providing comprehensive, reliable, and secure payroll processing, benefits packages, human resources, tax administration, and regulatory compliance assistance.
Riley Watham-Slack of Foxen Vineyard & Winery
Neshan W. Sarkisian, DVM, owner of Santa Ynez Pet Hospital
“In an industry where large payroll companies offer impersonal services, Pacific HR stands out with its high-touch, personalized approach.”
its services from basic payroll and workers’ compensation to comprehensive HR solutions, including employee engagement programs and complete benefits administration, the company helps clients stay ahead of evolving workforce practices, technologies, and legal requirements. Pacific HR also prioritizes employee well-being, promoting a work-life balance that results in high retention and a positive workplace culture.
Pacific HR is entering an exciting growth phase. The recent addition of five new employees will enhance service delivery while maintaining its commitment to personalized client interactions. The company ensures that clients never feel like a number—when they call, a real person answers. Each client has a dedicated account professional who understands their business’s unique needs. As Pacific HR expands, its focus remains on maintaining strong relationships and delivering customized HR solutions.
Despite digitalizing HR services, Pacific HR remains committed to human connection. Monthly in-person HR meetings, direct phone calls, and an open-door policy for clients foster trust and accessibility. Whether addressing sensitive HR issues or explaining new compliance requirements, the Pacific HR team is always available to guide businesses through workforce management challenges. One client recently said, “You’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with.” Pacific HR embodies this philosophy, building strong partnerships that contribute to mutual success.
Pacific HR offers an indispensable service for businesses looking to invest wisely in their future. More than just an HR provider, it is a strategic partner that helps businesses confidently navigate workforce management complexities. In a world where compliance, efficiency, and employee well-being are critical to success, Pacific HR proves that investing in expert HR solutions is one of a business’s most valuable decisions.
Mark Donofrio of The Starter Farm
investing in solar
How Action Energy Turns Homeowners into Smart Investors
For homeowners looking to enhance their property while reducing energy costs, Action Energy offers more than just solar installations—it provides long-term financial benefits from a contractor you can trust. Founded by Jack Martin, Sharon Fritz, and their business partner Kirk Mueller, Action Energy has become a respected name in the solar industry. With over 40 years of experience in managing Action Roofing and 15 years of dedication to solar solutions, the company blends expert craftsmanship with innovative technology to help homeowners make smart, sustainable investments in their energy future. Action Energy specializes in solar panel installations, Tesla Solar Roofs, battery storage, and EV charging stations. The company’s holistic approach ensures that homeowners receive a well-integrated energy solution. By carefully assessing a home’s structure and energy needs, Action Energy ensures optimal performance and long-term returns.
Installing solar panels through Action Energy yields several financial advantages:
• Lower Energy Bills — Reducing dependency on the grid translates to longterm savings.
• Increased Home Value — Homes with solar installations attract buyers willing to pay a premium.
• Reliable Power — Battery storage solutions, such as Tesla Powerwalls, provide backup power during outages.
• Environmental Impact — A solar-powered home significantly reduces carbon footprints.
ARTICLE BY SARA DEMARCUS
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
• Quality Assurance — Action Energy’s partnership with Action Roofing ensures homeowners receive durable installations that integrate seamlessly with roofing structures.
One of the most crucial financial decisions homeowners face is whether to lease or own their solar system. While leasing seems attractive due to lower upfront costs, it often does not yield the same financial benefits as ownership.
• Owning a Solar System — Homeowners who purchase their system— outright or through financing—can access tax credits, increased property value, and significant long-term savings.
• Leasing a Solar System — A leased system requires monthly payments but offers fewer financial benefits. The homeowner does not receive tax incentives, and the leasing company retains ownership of the system. Action Energy doesn’t offer leasing options, as they believe ownership is the superior investment for long-term financial gain.
For those seeking a cutting-edge solar solution, a Tesla Solar Roof is a high-tech investment that enhances aesthetics and energy efficiency. Action Energy oversees the entire process, from design and permitting to installation, ensuring homeowners receive:
• A Modern, Seamless Aesthetic — Unlike traditional solar panels, Tesla’s solar tiles integrate directly into the roof’s design.
• Durability and Longevity — Tesla Solar Roofs are a resilient investment that is engineered to last.
• High-Efficiency Energy Production — Optimized for maximum energy savings.
• Property Value Enhancement — A Tesla Solar Roof can significantly increase resale value.
Investing in a solar system is just the beginning. Action Energy provides battery storage solutions, like Tesla Powerwall, which enable homeowners to store excess energy for later use. This protects against fluctuating energy costs and ensures power availability during outages. Additionally, Action Energy installs Level 2 EV chargers, integrating solar power to make electric vehicle ownership even more cost-efficient.
Many homeowners have seen exceptional results after investing with Action Energy. One homeowner sought a battery backup solution and was impressed by the team’s professionalism, pricing, and attention to detail. He called it “THE BEST experience” he had with home improvement projects, highlighting the company’s exceptional service. His investment improved his home’s energy efficiency and enhanced its overall infrastructure.
By choosing Action Energy, homeowners gain more than solar power—they invest in long-term savings, increased home value, and energy independence. Focusing on ownership over leasing, expert craftsmanship, and top-tier technology, Action Energy provides an opportunity to turn solar energy into a sound financial decision. For those looking to make a smart investment in their homes, the future is bright with Action Energy.
For more information, visit: https://www.actionenergysb.com
www.sisterbstudios.com
ARTICLE BY BRIANNA HALEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT DEMARCUS
INVESTING InYourFuture
A CARING AND TAILORED APPROACH TO WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Leslie Swartwood, a homegrown heroine from the Santa Ynez Valley, takes care of your financial future with her attention to detail and true caring approach. With several years of higher education and practical mentorship, she brings her expertise to her hometown community.
When Leslie discusses investments, she genuinely believes in investing in your future and helping you secure it. She recognizes that no matter the financial situation or what goals you have with the right guidance, securing your future is still achievable. She’s motivated to see her clients through both challenging times and successful seasons.
“You want an advisor who deeply invests in your goals and takes your successes and challenges personally. That’s what I strive for in my clients.”
What initially drew you to finance?
I had always enjoyed my finance classes in college. After graduating with a business management degree, I began working in recruiting during a time when many companies were downsizing and started a 401k with them experienced some success. As I explored other avenues for saving several years later, I connected with an Edwards Jones advisor and was eventually recruited by that same advisor. I became passionate about helping others achieve the same success I had seen.
What’s your favorite aspect of your work?
My favorite part about my job is witnessing people reach the goals they create with us. Many of our clients become close friends because we become deeply involved in their lives. We celebrate their successes and support them during challenging times. Additionally, working for Edward Jones fosters such a strong family-oriented atmosphere. My colleagues are incredibly kind and accommodating to one another. We genuinely want each other to succeed, and this family-oriented culture has translated into my relationships with my clients.
What’s the most common type of investment you find yourself advising clients on?
We truly tailor each client’s investment strategy to their unique goals and life stages. This personalized approach allows us to offer a diverse range of investment options. We don’t adopt a one-size-fitsall approach because it’s crucial for us to get to know each person individually. This personal connection fosters a sense of camaraderie with our clients, making them feel like family. We ensure our unwavering presence throughout their financial journey. The advent of Zoom during the COVID pandemic has enabled us to easily maintain clients from local to even out-of-state locations.
In your opinion, why is it so important to have a financial advisor? What advice would you offer to someone embarking on their financial journey?
No matter your experience, having a guide who can lead you is never a bad idea. Any outside noise can trigger emotional behavior in the stock market and derail you from focusing on investing for the long term, and having a financial advisor can help keep you from making costly mistakes. Ideally, you want an advisor who deeply invests in your goals and takes your successes and challenges personally. That’s what I strive for in my clients.
Contact Leslie at 805-688-9079 to learn more.
FLAME KISSED
COCKTAIL CLUB
Enjoy this refreshing cocktail for a soft, round and subtly sweet taste with a fruity fresh kick.
HAKU LYCHEE MARTINI
• 2 oz. HAKU® Japanese Craft Vodka
• 1 oz. house made lychee simple syrup
ingredients: directions:
1. Combine ingredients 2. Shake vigorously over ice 3. Strain and serve up in a chilled martini glass 4. Garnish with a lychee
GREENS:
GREENS INVEST IN YOUR DANDELION
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
Christian Rodriguez (805)729-4022
CHRISTIAN RODRIGUEZ PHOTOGRAPHY
CAPTURING LOVE, CONNECTION, AND TIMELESS MOMENTS
Your story deserves to be told through genuine, heartfelt imagery. At Christian Rodriguez Photography, we specialize in capturing the beauty of love and togetherness—whether it’s the intimate connection between couples, the warmth of family, the excitement of engagements, or the unforgettable magic of weddings. Let’s turn your special moments into lasting treasures.
BOOK YOUR SESSION TODAY!
Solvang, Santa Ynez, Santa Barbara
Couples Weddings Family
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 5TH
Santa Ynez Valley Family School - Bounty of the Valley
SYVFS Campus: 5300 Figueroa Mtn Rd., Los Olivos, CA, 93441 | 5:00 PM
The SYV Family School founding families came together 50 years ago with a vision for a school that honors the individual voices of its students and where play is at the center of developing minds and hearts. Come out for the evening and enjoy fantastic food, wine, music, dancing, and great auction items! Shuttles provided from Dunn Middle School.
APRIL 5TH – 6TH
Tomatomania Curated by The Starter Farm
Forage Florals: 1095 Meadowvale Rd. Santa Ynez, CA 93460 | 11:30 AM
April 5th – 11:30 am “Tomato & Pepper 101: Ensuring success from the start. Tips for a great harvest season.”
1:30 pm “Cut flower growing: How to produce the most flowers in a small space for vases full of flowers for the summer season!”
April 6th – 11:30 am “Tomato pitfalls: Identifying and solving plant problems before they happen.”
APRIL 5TH – 6TH
1st Ever Solvang Brick Building Event
Throughout Solvang | 12:00 PM
Join us in Solvang for our first-ever event weekend filled with brick-building fun. With a line-up set for Saturday and Sunday, this unique event will provide attendees with a total brick-building immersion experience. Get ready to see pro builders compete throughout the town of Solvang, meet and greet with LEGO Master Builders, and connect with other enthusiasts.
APRIL 11TH
Dolls & Dads - Father Daughter Dance
Stuart C Gildred Family YMCA: 900 N Refugio Rd Santa Ynez, CA 93460 | 5:30 PM
The Dolls & Dads Father-Daughter Dance takes place Friday, April 11, 2025, at the Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA. Doors open at 5:30 PM for snacks and photos, with dancing and entertainment from 6:30–9:00 PM. Open to ages 3–16. For more details, contact the Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA.
Hard Day’s Night, Southern California’s #1 Beatles Tribute Show, has been thrilling audiences with tight harmonies and flawless note-fornote instrumental renditions of Beatles hits. Hard Day’s Night has honed their show to become one of the world’s most musically and visually satisfying Beatle tribute acts - and they are bringing their performance to the Santa Ynez Valley!
APRIL 25TH – 26TH
38th Annual Solvang Datsun Roadster Classic
Downtown Solvang: First Street and Copenhagen Dr Solvang, CA 93463 | 6:00 PM
The 38th Annual Solvang Datsun Roadster Classic legendary show is traditionally held on the last Saturday in April each year in Solvang. Nearly 100 Datsun Roadsters descend for a get-together on Friday night and the day-long show and shine on First Street with Datsun Roadster enthusiasts attending from all over the world. Raffle proceeds go to the American Diabetes Association.
PAST. PRESENT. FUTURE.
PIRATE ATHLETE OF
THE MONTH
(L-R: Coach Caughell, Gael Villalobos, Rex Dunkle, Luke Gianis, Chase Schmidt, Alex Molera, Ikenna Ofiaeli, Mason Skidmore, Lucas Ollenburger, Jude Pritchard, Wesley Satterthwait, Asst Coach Matt DeMarcus, Cooper Thomsen, Jayden Mendoza, Asst Coach Arthur Van Leuven)
SYHS Boys Basketball - Sunset League Champions!
The Santa Ynez Boys basketball team have been chasing a goal for quite some time now. Since 1987, the boys’ basketball team has not won a league championship. Despite having some very good teams throughout the years, that Los Padres League title remained just outside our grasp. With the reorienting of the central coast teams into different leagues, the SY Pirates found themselves in the Sunset League with the same goal as every previous year: win the league title.
And this was finally the year that the pirates achieved that goal. The 2024-2025 SY Pirates won the Sunset League title! With an undefeated 8-0 record, they left no doubt as to who the dominant team was this year. Led by the 3-pronged scoring attack of Jude Pritchard, Lucas Ollenburger, and Ikenna Ofiaeli, the Pirates ended with an overall record of 19-9. The Pirates even won a tough playoff game against Lemoore High School at home on Feb 15th, 55-52.
This is such an outstanding achievement from our SY Pirates and well deserving of the Athlete(s) of the Month. The Pirates were a team that got immensely better as the season progressed. They were able to set aside their individual wants for the collective goal of doing something that hasn’t been done in 38 years. Congratulations to the Pirates and keep up the hard work so we can win league next year!
Honor the past. Represent the Present. Prepare the Future. Sponsored by the Freedom Fighter Family
