Santa Ynez Valley Star November 2016

November 2016 • Volume 1, Number 10

Every Issue Complimentary Every Time

www.santaynezvalleystar.com

Caring for our troops one box at a time Military personnel write words of thanks

by SYV Star Staff

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

T

hese letters are just a few of hundreds that have been sent back to We Support the Troops SYV, a local nonprofit started by retired Col. Pat Sullivan. Her band of volunteers come together once a month to pack “care packages” of supplies to troops who are connected to the Santa Ynez Valley.

Read more about these “soldier boxes” on page 18 as part of our Veteran’s Day section.

Letters home Photo by Sean Locke Letters of thanks are sent by grateful military personnel to We Support the Troops SYV for care packages.

We received your box. What a boost of morale.

We are located in a semi-remote area near the front lines and we don’t have access to a whole lot. So it means more to us than you may realize.

It’s good to know that we have your support.

It can feel like we’re alone here being around the other side of the world.

Your gifts were used up and passed out quickly. We can’t thank you enough. Really.

Half of us around here are military fulltime and the other half are Reservist/National Guard.

I fall into the latter. For many of us, we not only miss our way of life and friends/

family ... we also wonder about our jobs or new ones upon return if our old ones no longer exist. That’s part of life that we accept.

As the one that was able to write you back, a little about me.

I am a husband of one and a father of five.

Oldest three are girls. All ages 5-13. I miss them all immensely. My girls are into music, art, and reading while the boys are still young and they enjoy wrestling with each other and playing outside. They all enjoy martial arts, which they began since I’ve been away (thanks to a local grant).

I can’t really say that we “need” anything specific. All of our basic needs are met. We sleep on cots in large tents all together if that gives you an idea of living situation. I can’t be any more specific with regards to much else.

Just know your support is much appreciated and not taken for granted. Thank you and thank you some more.

From all of us west of Erbil, Iraq, Josh Williams Hello. My name is Lieutenant Commander Cory Gassaway. Recently you sent a package to Major Curtis Rubeck through Support the Troops. The package was wonderful and contained some great surprises and much needed items. The dark chocolate quinoa and dark chocolate pumpkin seed bark were huge hits in the office. The Gillette Fusion razor blades were a pleasant surprise too. Thank you so much for supporting us in our efforts.

When we receive the support from home it really reinforces why we do what we do.

I noticed that you are from Santa Ynez, California. I have spent many wonderful weekends in Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, and Solvang. I was stationed in Point Mugu for many years, and Santa Ynez was a very special place for my family. We spent

o LETTERS IS CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

2 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

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November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 3

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lley Santa Ynez Va e th f o e v ti a A n since 2006, t n e id s e r g n a and a Solv erated an p o d n a d e w o Ryan Toussaint for the last y lle a v e th in IT business 10 years. d or business an f n io s s a p ’s n a Ry his teens. g in r u d d te s e nif technology ma high school, he g n ti le p m o c e r Befo a B and became S C U t a d ie d stu eer. He owned in g n E s m te s y Microsoft S 19. Today the t a s s e in s u b his own IT rs are small/ e m to s u c is h majority of es. local enterpris d e iz s m iu d e m n litician, Ryan ca o p a s n a e m o By n ace with a new f h s e r f a r e off oing issues. g n o to e v ti c e p innovative pers see guidelines to e lik ld u o w n l Rya sound financia e r u s n e to d e develop y to a voice ilit b ta n u o c c a d planning an g. excess spendin

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4 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

star news Football players ‘Go

Pink’ for beloved coach

by SYV Star Staff

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

S

anta Ynez High School football players went pink Oct. 21 in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and in showing support for all those in the community battling cancer, especially with the recent loss of Coach Carl Rio. Both varsity and junior varsity players wore pink socks during their games that Friday night against Lompoc High School.

“Go Pink Night is a meaningful Santa Ynez Football tradition as players and coaches honor all women in their fight against breast cancer. This year it was more than that. We want to recognize all those battling cancer and who have fought Photo contributed hard against this insidious disease. The reCarl Rio was a coach at SYHS, but also a mentor, a cent passing of Coach Carl Rio makes this community volunteer, and a friend to many in the Santa year’s event especially meaningful for our Ynez Valley. team,” said Head Coach Josh McClurg.

“Carl was an amazing man and mentor had fundraising efforts at the game includto all the kids who knew him,” McClurg ing a Pirate football helmet signed by all added. players, a 50-50 raffle, cupcakes donated Rio died Oct. 11 after a battle with by the Solvang Bakery and other baked cancer, according to the family, and per his goods. A local medical device company wishes there was no memorial service. also offered to match donations up to Rio got more involved with volunteering $2,000 in support of this year’s fundraising for valley organizations and coaching the program. football and baseball teams at Santa Ynez In memory of Carl Rio, 100 percent of Valley Union High School after his son the fundraising proceeds will go to the Jeff Jeff died in a car accident in 1996, but he Rio Memorial Scholarship Fund, and all of has always been involved in the commuthe matching contributions will go directly nity. to the Sansum Multi-Specialty and Cancer Football Boosters led by Charlene Hiatt Center in Solvang.

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postal deliveries

School funds repairs but needs help

that we are committed to this.

Please know that we are seeking to partner with the Valley community to fund this strategic goal for our students for costs that exceed our financial capacity.

It’s important that the public know we are taking care of both regular, preventative maintenance, along with paying for a wide variety of unforeseen costs associated with our aging facilities; we are not seeking a handout from the voters. Instead, we desire to responsibly partner with the community to address the need to reconstruct or replace critical infrastructure that is at the end of its useable life.

The school board and I are steadfastly committed to being the best possible stewards of the public’s money. Please contact me personally with any of your questions at either scory@syvuhsd.org or 688-6487, ext. 3200.

Scott Cory, Superintendent Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District

The Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District’s bond initiative, Measure K, is on the ballot Nov. 8. I recently had a couple of questions asked of me regarding what the district does to fund maintenance efforts for our facilities, as well as why we aren’t spending our budget reserve to pay for major maintenance costs. Both are prudent questions to ask and both have reasonable answers.

Regarding annual maintenance budgeting for the past four years as an example, we have spent $2.3 million, budgeting more than half a million dollars each year.

Last year we budgeted $640,514.90, a steadily and annually increasing amount.

In regards to using our reserve to pay for major maintenance costs, our school board last year approved $500,000 above and beyond our regular budgeted amount, and from our reserve, for the current 20162017 school year.

Finally, our current strategic plan self-imposes us to provide for “safe, comfortable, up-to-date and efficient facilities.” Proper care of our facilities is at the He’s such a Boy Scout. How often have top of the school board’s priority list. Our you heard this colloquialism as a negative historical and current budgeting supports connotation? Knowing that the person in the room as a Boy Scout will not participate Letters to the editor should be no more than and indeed spoil your scam because it is not 300 words in length and mailed to: honest or ethical.

Let me tell you that Bruce Porter is a real Raiza Giorgi, PO Box 1594, Solvang, CA 93464 or email to: Boy Scout in every sense of the word. He news@santaynezvalleystar.com is trustworthy, helpful, honest, respectful, Please include your name, address and phone number.

THE POST CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Porter deserves your vote

o

FEAZELLE, Jacqueline Josette 04 June 1983 - 03 October 2016

Our beautiful, sweet, smart, acerbic, funny, courageous, one-of-a-kind Jacqui, like smoke in the wind, is gone but her spirit and memory will live with us forever.

NEWS STAFF news@santaynezvalleystar.com Raiza Giorgi Publisher & Editor Dave Bemis Copy Editor Drew Esnard Reporter Casy Geier Alice Mullin Kayla Plater Interns

ADVERTISING STAFF ads@santaynezvalleystar.com Shana DeLeon Director of Advertising PRODUCTION STAFF Aimée Reinhart Avery Design & Pagination

After a nearly life-long struggle as a Type 1 diabetic and with human frailties, all of which she faced with courage and dignity, she finally with a broken heart surrendered to her maker.

CONTACT US: http://www.santaynezvalleystar.com Santa Ynez Valley Star LLC P.O. Box 1594 Solvang, CA 93464

She is survived by her two sons Grayson and John whom she loved more than life, her parents Donna and John, sister Sutton Bailey (Carl), her niece and nephews, Aunt Cita and Uncle Robert, Auntie CoCo, and her dearest and closest friend Sarah - her "sister" in their life-long journey with diabetes.

805-350-8786

The SY Valley Star is proud to be a member of:

There will be no service per Jacqui's wish that there be "no fuss." ©2016 Santa Ynez Valley Star LLC No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied or distributed without the authorization of the publisher.

Digital copies available at: issuu.com/santaynezvalleystar

In lieu of flowers, please donate in her name to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or Project Recovery in Santa Barbara.

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Sign up now for $1 per week and become our patron on

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November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 5 70 percent of contributions to the campaign for the same ballot to fund school facilities K-12.

Bruce Porter came from donors inside the 3rd Essentially you will be taxed two more times if courteous, ethical, kind and all the other Scout District. His opponent, Joan Hartmann, received both measures pass. Sounds like triple dipping qualities that come to mind. less than 30 percent of her contributions from to me. SYVUHS is a basic aid school district.

In his profession as a financial planner, I Its revenues are derived from our property tax The Vikings of Solvang held our first “Rock- inside the 3rd District. have seen firsthand where he has always put the toberfest” at the Solvang Vets Hall on Oct. 1.

I want an elected representative that will repre- dollars that increase each year. Apparently the interest of his client ahead of his own interest.

While this event added to our funds for assisting sent me and my neighbors, not someone who will school board’s plan is to keep bringing the bond He will always do what is best on their behalf. I others, it was held as a community celebration. represent special interests from somewhere else. back to the ballot until they get the vote they have also served with Bruce on nonprofit boards I have even more confidence now that Bruce want. Instead of wasting the public’s money This nonprofit group was founded locally in including Cachuma District Boy Scouts. His Porter is the best choice for county supervisor. placing this item on the ballot repeatedly, that 1974, and has a decades old tradition of assistleadership and solution generation ability is Please join me in voting for him on Nov. 8. money could have been used for maintenance for ing those with medically related financial needs iconic. I suspect it comes from his service in the in Santa Barbara County. Since 1974, over Dhruv Singh the school.

US Army and West Point. We need more Bruce $2.65 million has been distributed for this cause.

Isla Vista Vote NO on Measure K. The school district Porters who possess this type of integrity, charneeds to fund repairs out of its budget and not Fifteen years ago the Vikings created their acter and resolve within our Board of Supervilook for a handout from the taxpayers.

Endowment Fund. This Endowment Fund sors and other elected positions.

Sharon Steele generates the income needed to fund most of Bruce has served our county and community the requests we receive. The Endowment Fund Santa Ynez with honor. Now it is my honor to cast my vote is diligently managed by local, professional for Bruce Porter as 3rd District Supervisor.

Property taxes are already increasing. experts, who all work pro bono in assisting the David Brown Vikings of Solvang’s cause. (In fact, all Vikings Let’s keep property affordable for seniors, Solvang work pro-bono.) The Vikings of Solvang have the unemployed and those on a fixed income.

Renters are also at risk for higher rents if this no overhead and the corpus of the endowment I have been a taxi driver for the last five is never to be touched. There are many tax and bond passes. School bonds should not be used years, and during that time I have become estate planning strategies to be taken advantage for deferred maintenance. increasingly concerned with the amount of of when you choose to make a donation to the I care about quality education and students Ubers in the county. With this proliferation of Viking’s very worthy cause. having a safe and decent place in which to learn, Ubers, it has cut the income of taxi drivers by Our Charity Committee reviews all of our but cannot support this $14.7 million bond which at least 35 to 40 percent.

This group of retired sheriff’s command staff incoming financial requests and makes the actually will cost the tax payers over $18 million and I have joined the Deputy Sheriff’s AssociaI don’t blame the Uber drivers for this, necessary recommendations to our “Gold Cupwhen you include interest. Four years ago, local but rather the Uber corporation for pushing tion in supporting Bruce Porter for 3rd District voters rejected the $19.8 million school bond Supervisor: Sheriff Jim Vizzolini, 35 years; Un- pers,” essentially our board of directors. a technology that not only creates an unfair The Special Needs Children’s Christmas Measure L that included the same wording for dersheriff Dave Dorsey, 36 years; Undersheriff advantage but also is not held to the same Gary Tieso, 32 years; Undersheriff Bill Lenvik, Party is our signature event and is fully funded projects such as leaking roofs, dry rot, leaky standards as taxi drivers. by the Vikings. This heartwarming event has pipes, etc.

33 years; Undersheriff Jim Peterson, 30 years; As members of our industry, we are reWhy are the roofs still leaking and they are Chief Deputy Don McCormick, 32 years; Chief been held annually for decades to spread cheer quired to have a county license, insurance, anand love to these children, their teachers, and “losing thousands of gallons of water” when Deputy Terry Bunn, 31 years; Chief Deputy nual drug testing and background checks. To their parents from throughout northern Santa there is an unrestricted $4.5 million reserve?

John DaFoe, 31 years; Chief Deputy Geoff my understanding, none of this is done with Barbara County. It has grown tremendously and Why are they recycling the same project photoBanks, 35 years; Marshal and Commander Uber. We also have our fare prices controlled Tom Gee, 30 years; Commander Ed Piceno, 32 we have served well over 550 meals in each of graphs from the last bond measure? The same by the county. In contrast, Uber has free rein the last two years. school board members that tried to fool the votyears; Commander Chip Marchbanks, 25 years; to charge whatever they like depending on the During the Children’s Christmas party, ers on Measure L four years ago are now pushing time of day and how busy they are.

Commander Dominick Palera, 30 years, and participants receive exciting visits with Santa, Measure K, but this time they say, “there is no Commander Diana Stetson, 28 years.

Because of that, I would like to make a Frosty The Snowman, and Rudolph; a gift for fluff.” Should we believe them this time? There All of these former senior staff officers know the kids’ classrooms; and buckets of cookies. is a $9 billion California state bond measure on DELIVERIES CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 how important a county supervisor is in ensurChristmas songs and music are beautifully sung ing the safety of our county’s residents. and performed for our young guests. A Shetland We all started as deputies and corrections pony is also made available for them to pet. officers and worked our way through the ranks This wonderful and emotional day is full of to positions of overseeing the day-to-day opexcitement and joy. erations of the Sheriff’s Department. We know We are amazingly blessed to live in this wonwhat type of support is needed by the Board of derful valley of ours. We, as Vikings, thoroughSupervisors to ensure that our men and women ly enjoy our lively brotherhood and are proud on the front lines are well-equipped and trained and humbled in serving others.

The largest most complete feed store serving the Santa Ynez Valley offering the largest variety of feed, supplements, tack, to keep our communities safe and to ensure Rich Saferite pet toys, treats and grooming needs. that our department is morally and ethically Chief of the Vikings of Solvang prepared to do the tough job you expect them to do. Bruce Porter has the background and proven public service to our community that led *Sale applies to pictured items only. Limited to stock on hand. us to this decision.

Please support the men and women of the Full Line of Holistic All Dog Beds Sheriff’s Department by helping to elect Bruce I was intrigued about something I heard Select Dog & Cat Food Porter for 3rd District Supervisor. about donations to candidates for 3rd District Jim Thomas supervisor, so I went to the county website to Retired SB County sheriff look at the data myself. I found that more than

‘Rocktoberfest’ is a hit for Vikings

THE POST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

Vote no on SYHS Measure K

Uber needs taxi-type rules

Ex-sheriff’s commanders supporting Porter

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Bruce Porter deserves vote

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6 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

Get to know the SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL

2016 Time nears to vote in general election The last day to request a “vote by mail” ballot is Nov. 1 to vote in the Nov. 8 general election. Voting by mail began Oct. 10. The polls are open on Election Day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The polling location for your precinct is printed on the back page of your sample ballot booklet the elections office mailed you. You can also find it by calling 800-345-VOTE (8683); online at www. sos.ca.gov/elections/polling-place or texting VOTE to GOVOTE(468683).

New voters may be asked to provide identification or other documentation according to federal law. Only eligible voters can vote, and it is against the law to tamper with voting equipment.

Here is a list of candidates for offices representing the Santa Ynez Valley, including community service districts and school boards.

Third District county supervisor Joan Hartmann Bruce Porter

CITY OF BUELLTON Mayor - 1 seat – 2-year term

Dave King Holly Sierra

City Council - 1 seat – 4-year term Leo Elovitz Foster Reif Marcilo Sarquilla CITY OF SOLVANG Mayor - 1 seat – 2-year term

Incumbent - Jim Richardson

City Council - 2 seats – 4-year term

Brian Baca Hans Duus Ryan Toussaint Karen Waite

Los Alamos Community Services District - 3 seats open

Incumbents Paul Sierra Leonard Bileti Larry Torres

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Four candidates are running to fill two available seats, each with a four-year term, on the Solvang City Council. Ryan Toussaint did not respond to invitations to participate, but Brian Baca, Karen Waite and Hans Duus answer questions below from the SYV Star staff.

What are your qualifications for the position of City Council member?

Baca: For the past 27 years, I have been working in local government as a geologist, land use planner and manager.

In addition, I have had the opportunity to serve as a decision-maker for local, regional and state government bodies. While on the Solvang City Council in 2005, I served as a board member for the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments and the Air Pollution Control District. I also served two terms on the State Mining and Geology Board. With this experience, I gained a thorough understanding of the legal and budgetary issues faced by government entities.

Waite: I’m a 20-year resident of the Santa Ynez Valley and currently on the Board of Architectural Review for the city of Solvang. Former president of the Board of Trustees for ID1, Santa Ynez River Water Conservation Improvement District 1, as an elected official and first woman president of that board. I’m a member of the Los Olivos Rotary Club, member of the SYV Elks Lodge 2640, former financial chair for the SYV Family School Board of Trustees, as well as a business woman, mother, and active community volunteer.

Duus: I have lived in the Santa Ynez Valley my entire life and graduated from Santa Ynez Valley Union High School. I got my Eagle Scout award in Boy Scouts here on the Bethania Lutheran Church stage, and spent 13 years as a volunteer firefighter for the city of Solvang before we contracted with Santa Barbara County Fire. I have served two terms on the Solvang City Council and in my professional career I have been a blacksmith and teach at Allan Hancock College.

What do you consider to be the primary focus of your campaign?

Baca: I believe the city of Solvang should take a leadership role in developing a youth sports

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facility for the Santa Ynez Valley. The usage of the current facilities at Santa Ynez Elementary School has gone beyond the capacity of the site and that of the surrounding neighborhood.

Waite: Balancing the preservation of the Danish Heritage and the needs of our residents of Solvang with the increasing need for revenue generated by tourism. My campaign is business-friendly.

Duus: Water issues are the most important because we need to start with regional water conservation and work together to solve the lack of water. Starting a desalination plant is among some of the ideas to put forth.

Are there any budget categories in which you would like to see city spending increased, decreased or eliminated? How would you prioritize the city’s spending and why?

Baca: Maintaining the infrastructure is the highest priority and serves all aspects of the city. There is no substitute for well-maintained streets, sidewalks, water and sewer systems, lights, parks and public restrooms. I propose that the budget be augmented to allow time for city staff to conduct the agency coordination and research necessary to evaluate the potential development of a regional sports park.

Waite: Tourism is a priority. It generates the majority of operational revenue that supports the city of Solvang. Without the revenue generated by tourism the city would not be able to provide required municipal services to the residents of Solvang.

Duus: With the city’s unrestricted general fund we need to spend money on giving grants to the libraries, senior center, People Helping People and other important local organizations that help bring people to our city to keep it a destination city.

If new resources were available, what one area of city services would you feel most needs additional resources?

Baca: The largest underlying fiscal issue is the long-term debt incurred when the City Council entered into a contract to separately acquire State Water entitlement rather than buy State Water supplies as a customer of SYRWCD ID1. Additional revenues (if undesignated) should be used to reduce pension liability or used to increase General Fund reserves.

Waite: Water resources and sewer services. There is also a real need for pedestrian sidewalks, bike paths and road improvements.

I will address those issues as they relate to safety and recreation.

Duus: There needs to be more resources for doing better studies on lighting and crosswalks, especially with increased traffic. The city has to lead by example.

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Office: 805.686.9120 Fax: 805.686.5402

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November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 7

candidates Q&A

2016

BUELLTON CITY COUNCIL Three candidates are campaigning for a single, four-year seat on the Buellton City Council. Leo Elovitz did not respond to invitations to participate, but below Foster Reif and Marcilo Sarquilla answer a few questions from the SYV Star staff.

What is your employment background?

Reif: In over 12 years of service to my country I have held multiple positions in training, intelligence and operations, often as a supervisor. During my deployment in the Middle East, I oversaw execution of the largest translation effort in U.S. history. In my current position, I’m a senior program manager and lead for the modernization of the Department of Defense program for tracking and cataloging all objects in space.

Sarquilla: I am a systems analyst at the Information Systems Department at the city of Lompoc, where I maintain the payroll system of 600-plus unique employees. Prior, I was with the county of Santa Barbara at the Treasurer and Tax Collector’s office, where I maintained the hardware, network, security, the retirement systems, Public Guardian and Conservatorship database, the collection system, and automated the tax payment systems, and developed the Transient Occupancy database.

What specifically qualifies you for the position, and what are your motivations for public service?

Reif: My motivation for public service is to do right for this city and its residents.

My entire professional life has been rooted in service to our country and community. I serve as the chairman of the Buellton Planning Commission with an eight-year tenure

LETTERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 many wonderful days having picnics at Bridlewood down by the lake, in the courtyard out by Gainey, in the cooking area at Roblar, or on the lawn at Sunstone. My three young children still ask me when we can go back to see the horses at Bridlewood or go play with the chess pieces at Zaca Mesa, even though we moved two years ago. My

805-688-8400

and I continue to serve my country as a major in the USAF. My unique profession and years of dedicated service to Buellton have left me singularly qualified with an indepth grasp of city codes, plans, guidelines and issues the other candidates lack.

Sarquilla: I’ve been a board member on the Buellton Union School District for 5 years, in which we built Oak Valley Elementary School, worked with the city of Buellton to build the new gymnasium and the Buellton Recreation Center. I am also president of the Employees Development Association at the city of Lompoc, and past president of the Retired Employees of Santa Barbara County. I love our community and want to continue in a leadership role to make those decisions that help keep us safe, healthy, and progress as an attractive small town.

What do you consider to be the primary focus of your campaign?

Reif: Currently, the city is very reactionary in its operations, without a strategic plan or priorities. Instead, we need to be proactive by creating a recurring five-year plan, which are used in many cities large and small across the nation. Such a strategy would address the ever present issues facing Buellton in an orderly and comprehensive manner: stewardship and prioritization of budget expenditures, water conservation and needed infrastructure upgrades in worsening drought conditions, safety/ access along and across the 246, long-term major school improvements to maintain their exemplary quality, clean up and create a vibrant Avenue, among many others.

Sarquilla: The primary focus of my campaign is that city business should not be education, it should be public safety and health. We have had enough study and opinions about the Avenue of the flags.

Let’s move forward. Also, we need to include community members that are on a fixed income when considering monetary changes. Listen to the community as well as its staff for insight on current and future issues. friend Tavis Bohlinger went to Santa Ynez High School, and I believe that he moved back to that area after he graduated from the Naval Academy.

I am very fond of your city and your community, and your package brought back a flood of memories for me. Thank you so much for looking out for us.

Respectfully, LCDR Cory “Shoe” Gassaway

www.droquist.com

Melinda R. Oquist, D.D.S.

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Santa Ynez Community Services District - 3 seats open

Mark Ream

College School District - 2 seats

Incumbents: Frank Mueller Barry Marks Carl Maler Challenger: Karen Jones

open Incumbents: Veronica Sandoval Salvador Avila Challenger: Bertha Arredondo

SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS Santa Ynez Valley Union High School - 2 seats open

Solvang School District - 2 seats

open Incumbent Peter Aichinger Heather Scheck Challenger Jason Dewitt

Incumbents: Bruce Porter Chris Burtness Challenger: Stephen Foley

Term - 1 seat open Ballard School District - 1 seat open Short Peter Haws

Incumbent: David Watkins Challenger: Tracey Cassidy

Vista Del Mar Union School District - 2 seats open

Gabby Flores Nicole Jones

Buellton Union School District 2 seats open Incumbents: Kenneth Stevens

Short Term - 1 seat open Stephanie Mathis

VOTE Karen WAITE For Solvang City Council

To the residents of Solvang

as well as to the residents and wonderful organizations and charities that I work with here in the Santa Ynez Valley; as an active community volunteer, businesswoman and 20 year resident of this Santa Ynez Valley I am pleased to announce my candidacy for Solvang City Council this November. I will deliver to you my commitment to preserve the historic heritage of Solvang and I will work to maintain a balance between the needs of the residents and the interests of our growing tourism. I will keep you openly informed of what your local city government can do and is doing for you now. I look forward to a successful and positive campaign.

Karen M. Waite Solvang, CA Paid for by Karen M. Waite

My experience…

COMMUNITY SERVICE City of Solvang Board of Architectural Review Appointed Trustee, January 2015-present

The Santa Ynez Valley Family School Financial Committee Chair, September 2013-2015 Trustee 2013-2016

County of Santa Barbara Elected Official Santa Ynez Valley River Water Conservation District Improvement District #1 Board President 2013-2014 Trustee at Large 2010-2014

CURRENT EMPLOYMENT PlanMember Securities Corporation Carpinteria, CA Securities Compliance Analyst June 15, 2015 to Present

Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge #2640 Member

EDUCATION Scripps College Claremont CA, BA 1986

REGULATORY INDUSTRY Los Olivos Rotary Club QUALIFICATION Treasurer 2014-2015 FINRA Regulatory Licenses Rotarian April 2013 to Present 7, 9, 10, 24, 31, 63, 65, 99

KarenWaiteforSolvangCityCouncil.com

8 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

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November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 9

NEW SYSTEM REQUIRES DIRECT VOTE

Buellton to hold first mayoral election California Highway Patrol officer David King and Buellton Postmaster Holly news@santaynezvalleystar.com Sierra.

Sierra is a member of the City Council, or the first time since incorporating and King is a past member. as a city in 1992, Buellton voters will We asked both candidates about what elect their mayor on Nov. 8. they will focus on if they are elected and The two well-known Buellton residents what they love about the community they vying for the two-year position are retired serve.

by SYV Star Staff

F

HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

David King David King has lived in the Santa Ynez Valley for more than 20 years.

He retired from the CHP after 25 years working in mostly the Los Angeles area.

He was first elected to the Buellton City Council in 2008, saying he ran because he was concerned with development in the city.

“I believe that people need to step up and serve the community in which they live. In the last few years I have been traveling with Jeff Bridges and seeing what over development can do to small towns like ours,” King said.

Small towns can get inundated with big commercial stores that end up hurting the small business owners who end up closing, he said.

“This is what I don’t want to change about our town. Development is good but at a incremental rate, not all at once. I will do what I can to keep the character of the small town feel,” King added.

Another important issue for King is water management. He wants city leaders to keep a close eye on their systems as the drought continues.

“With continued development there is also cause for concern the crime rate and what that will do with more and more people moving into Buellton. We need to make sure we have adequate law enforcement and emergency service personnel to handle the growth,” King said.

Photo contributed Buellton mayoral candidate Dave King is a retired California Highway Patrol officer who has been a City Council member in the past.

He said what he loves most about Buellton is that everyone is so friendly and gets along most of the time. King said there are not many places like Buellton where you can go into the supermarket and run into several people you know.

“I have to budget at least half an hour to get through the store because I always see someone and end up talking a while. I love this town,” King said.

Holly Sierra Holly Sierra has been the postmaster for the U.S. Post Office in Buellton for more than a decade. She loves her job because she gets to see all her neighbors on a daily basis and learn about their lives and what concerns them.

“You almost have to put on makeup every time you go to the grocery store because you always run into someone you know,” Sierra said.

She has lived in Buellton for 17 years with her husband Frank, and together they have three sons and six grandchildren.

“I ran for City Council because I wanted to help with creating great spaces that everyone can enjoy. I especially loved being a part of starting PAWS Dog Park and helping Zaca Creek Golf Course. I want there to be opportunity for businesses to start, like the bowling alley proposed behind Antonio’s Pizza, and yet making sure our town is created with safety in mind so people can walk and ride bikes,” she said.

Sierra said she’s enjoyed being appointed to Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG), which includes representatives of the county and the cities within it. SBCAG receives and distributes local, state and federal transportation funds to address issues regionally.

“We still have several issues especially in Buellton to address and making sure all the governmental agencies work together — the traffic issue on Highway 246 at McMurray in particular,” Sierra said.

Among other issues she wants to delve deeper into as mayor would be the redesign of Avenue of Flags. She isn’t completely comfortable with the design being proposed.

“I think we need to create more incentives for property owners to fix up their buildings, painting and other ideas. The city of Buellton should be installing more sidewalks and creating more user-friendly spaces,” she said.

Photo contributed Holly Sierra has served as the Buellton postmaster for the last 13 years. She currently is serving on the City Council.

Sierra said being on the “green team” has been great because residents have responded to some of the programs the city has implemented such as “Cash for Grass” and replacing toilets with low-flow models to conserve water.

“My position is to listen to the people even if it goes against my personal opinion,” Sierra added.

An example, she said, was the time she suggested looking into creating an ordinance that would limit where fast-food restaurants could operate. The idea was quickly rebuffed by residents and owners of property and businesses who said that it would be hard to determine what “fastfood” is and that such an ordinance could restrict current business owners.

“I saw that the idea wasn’t favorable and I dropped it. Even though some weren’t happy with me, I respected the will of the people,” Sierra said.

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10 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016 Service Unit held its annual Christmas Stockings Project on Sunday, Sept. 25.

Scouts from Troops 50173, 50218, 50202, 50876, 55406, and 55541 helped complete stockings that are given out to families who have babies at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital in December. The babies actually go home in the stockings.

Jan King, a hospital volunteer, had the girls finish 160 stockings by gluing the eyes, nose, holly and berries onto the felt bears, then gluing the bears onto the red Photos Contributed felt stockings.

These stockings have been handed out to families for the past 20 years. King took over the project last year when the volunteers could no longer commit to doing it and the project was to be canceled.

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians The Girl Scouts gladly volunteered to help Foundation partnered with Amazing Surf AdKing and hope to continue to keep this ventures for its Central Coast Operation Surf tradition going next year. program Oct. 17-23.

For more information, call Diane Bas“This program came to our attention a few tanchury at 689-3225. years ago and we have been developing a growing community partnership with them.

This year we provided a donation for the organization’s Central Coast surf program and are also sending our Team Chumash volunteers to help with the event,” said Tribal Chairman In the last two months, thieves stole Kenneth Kahn, approximately $1,000 worth of copper Amazing Surf Adventures develops comwire from a non-operating oil well along munity programs that feature surfing, along Zaca Station Road in Los Olivos, accordwith other activities, to help veterans and ing to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s other people change their perspective and overcome their personal challenges. One such Department. program is Operation Surf, which came into existence as a result of one wounded hero’s desire to learn to surf.

Severely wounded active-duty and veteran service members who participate in the weeklong Operation Surf Central Coast build a new After the Santa Barbara County Cattleunderstanding of their personal potential. women sponsored, prepared and served a To find out more about the Santa Ynez prior month’s dinner at the Buellton Senior Band of Chumash Indians Foundation and Center, one of the group members offered its giving programs, visit www.santaynez to host, prepare and serve the Sept. 27 chumash.org. dinner with the help of some of her friends.

Sherry Musgrove, who loves to cook and has done this in the past for the Buellton Senior Center and for other Valley nonprofit groups, served a Mexican-themed dinner for 60 guests, who enjoyed her chicken enchiladas, fiesta salad, Spanish rice and homemade refried beans, topped off with warm cobbler and ice cream for dessert.

Musgrove also supports the Solvang and Buellton Senior Centers with beautiful, bountiful baskets for raffles. She hosts dinners at her ranch in Santa Ynez for the Elks Queen contestant, Therapeutic Riding, the Santa Ynez Sportsman Association and The Santa Ynez Valley Girl Scouts other organizations.

NEWS ROUNDUP

Chumash Foundation helps with surf challenge

Copper wire stolen from idle oil rig

Cattlewoman serves dinner to seniors

Girl Scouts help with Christmas Project

Photo contributed A tour of Greece took a group of Santa Ynez Valley residents to famous historical sites such as Athens, the Meteora monastaries, Olympic Stadium, and the islands of Mykonos and Santorini.

Trip to Greece is a journey through history

by SYV Star Staff

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

A

local group led by Linda Johansen of Solvang visited Greece in late September to see historic cities and experience all the nation has to offer.

The group stayed in Athens for two nights, enjoying the historic Plaka district for a traditional taverna dinner with wine and Greek dancing along with a comprehensive tour of the city’s ancient and glorious monuments.

Then they visited the Acropolis, the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Olympic Stadium.

“Driving to Kalambaka, a Greek town at the foot of the Pindos Mountains, we visited an artist family who creates the beautiful hand-painted Byzantine icons that are in all of the churches throughout Europe. The pieces were exquisite, and everyone purchased a piece, with the priest artist individually signing our icons,” Johansen said.

Next was a visit to the remote Meteora monasteries that are more than 600 years old and built by Byzantine monks. They built their monastic community perched atop these virtually inaccessible rocks. These limestone rock towers extended nearly 900 feet into the air and the monks built these monasteries themselves.

The group then traveled to Arachova, Delphi and Olympia, visiting temples and seeing priceless collections of ancient artifacts in

museums.

“Olympia was the most amazing site of all. with many ancient structures in partial ruins.

We walked the Olympic Stadium where the first Olympic Games were held in 776 B.C. All athletes had to compete naked … this entire complex was inhabited only one week out of every four years by the athletes. and the rest of the time occupied by monks,” Johansen said.

There were up to 30,000 male spectators and only one woman allowed in the stadium, a female priest for the goddess of fertility.

“We had a very rough 2.5-hour ferry ride across the brilliant Aegean Sea to the Island of Mykonos, the whitewashed jewel of the Cyclades Islands. We enjoyed two nights on this lovely island with windmills and mazes of narrow and cobblestoned streets,” Johansen said.

Their last three nights were spent on the island of Santorini, which is famous for its mules carrying people up the steep cliffs.

Santorini is an entire town that was unearthed with evidence of plumbing, toilets, sidewalks and furniture, but no remains of people have been found. Historians know that a volcano erupted around 1450 B.C., but they can only theorize what happened to the people.

Johansen donates her net commissions from leading these trips to the Atterdag Village Auxiliary and the Solvang Chamber of Commerce. For information about 2017 trips to Scotland and cruising the Danube, call her at 686-1644.

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November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 11

business Holidays

CRAFTY COUPLE’S PASSION IS IN THEIR STITCHES

The Creation Station threads an packed eclectic look into quilts, sewing with food

and stress

Buellton shop celebrates 15 years by launching new club, party services

A

by Gina Pothoff Contributing Writer

T

he Creation Station in Buellton is not your average quilt shop.

For starters, it’s inside a former bowling alley. A more precise difference is that the fun, eclectic personality of the store mirrors that of owner Dawn Farrier.

Customers of the Creation Station Fabric and Quilt Shop at 252 E Highway 246, Unit A, are immediately greeted with color and patterns galore, and by the upbeat, red-haired proprietor.

Farrier and her husband, Patrick, hand pick the bulk and pre-cut fabrics, books, quilt kit supplies, homemade patterns and gifts. They create “functional ambiance” with a retro RV motif and displays of vintage sewing machines, ironing boards, water sprinklers and more.

Although the Creation Station finishes people’s quilts and sells and services quilting machines, it’s clear the main mission of the shop is to inspire.

The shop marked its 15th anniversary this year at the start of its busy season, which the Farriers say is from August through October — the amount of time crafty folks need to buy and make holiday gifts.

The Creation Station is also taking Dawn Farrier’s favorite part — teaching kids how to sew — to a new level by offering a Happy Hour

Photo by Gina Pothoff Dawn and Patrick Farrier hand pick the items they sell in their shop, The Creation Station, in Buellton.

Craft Club for adults from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The store’s adjacent classroom will get even more use, since Farrier will start offering party packages for kids and adults beginning in November.

“We get a lot of families,” she said. “There’s no more home ec in schools. There’s nothing to do. As long as they want to learn, I love it.

You can totally see the analytical thinking.”

Farrier was an event planner before the couple moved from Orange County to Buellton in 1997. In an effort to make friends in a new community, the lifelong sewer joined the local quilt guild.

Using industry contacts, Farrier purchased fabric from California manufacturers at discounted prices and passed the savings on to locals by occasionally selling out of her home. stability

50 YEARS STRONG. experience

She was invited to attend quilt shows — something she still does — and soon moved into her own space. The Creation Station moved to its current location in 2002, leasing from Steve Lykken of Steve’s Wheel and Tire next door.

Ten years ago, the shop added customized classroom space, where mostly young pupils pay small fees to attend summer camps. They learn to quilt pillows and sew clothing, hair accessories, infinity scarves and more.

The Creation Station has garnered so much attention that Farrier serves as a consultant to other quilt shop owners, but that doesn’t mean she’s going anywhere anytime soon.

“My passion is here,” she said of her shop and classes. “They want to make something, but they don’t know how to make it. I’m definitely big on community.”

s we flip the calendar to November, we are in a very busy time of the year. Some of us, including me, wonder where the year went. Others, including me, are looking forward to

by Myra Howard this time of year.

We have had Halloween and are on to Thanksgiving, and going into some stores we know that Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza and the new year are just a blink away.

What does this have to do with the Medical Memo? Two things: food and stress.

Let’s look at food first. Halloween candy.

Be honest, not all of it went to the young door knockers and what happened to the leftovers?

Then off to Thanksgiving, the next foodie holiday. Between appetizers, drinks, dinner and dessert, the average calorie consumption will be between 2,500 and 4,500 calories. For some that’s a two-day calorie allowance in just one meal.

Keep in mind, you need to take 4,200 steps just to walk off that yummy pumpkin pie, without the whipped cream. How many really take a walk after dinner? Most of us are on the couch in a “food coma.” I hear the snoring already. Let’s not forget the leftovers during the entire weekend

o MYRNA CONTINUED ON PAGE13

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November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 13 leading-edge “Form-based coding” practices and for “missing middle housing.”

Event highlights will include a silent auction and the Innovation Award recognition.

For tickets and information, email initiatives@EconAlliance.org.

BUSINESS ROUNDUP

Photo contributed International students from UCLA toured Olsen’s Bakery in Solvang and learned how to make pastry from master baker Bent Olsen.

Solvang CVB brings in more tour groups The sales team at the Solvang Convention and Visitors Bureau works on behalf of Solvang hotels and businesses year round. This Photo contributed summer saw Sales Manager Greg Corso taking tour operators from California, England and China on several “site familiarization” visits.

Meanwhile, Conference Services Liaison Sarah Brookshier and Visitor Information Center Manager Dean Klitgaard hosted UCLA international students at Olsen’s Bakery, a David Brown, branch manager of High Tech CASA retreat including Solvang Bakery, and Lending in Solvang, participated in the recent a Visiting Nurses group. These site visits have Senior Expo at Earl Warren Showgrounds in turned into contracts for several upcoming Santa Barbara, educating seniors about reverse overnight groups and bus tours. mortgages.

More than 1,000 seniors came to the Senior Expo, which offered flu shots, nutritional counseling, hearing and vision testing, and other services.

New this year was a financial wellness The Economic Alliance of Northern Santa session offered by Brown, where people could get information and guidance on reverse mort- Barbara County promises an evening of stimgages that were specific to their unique needs. ulating presentations at its Future Forum and annual dinner at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 3.

Brown is a published writer on the subject of The topics will be “Nano, Bio and Artificial reverse mortgages and real estate finance.

Intelligence - Technology that will Transform “It is not for everyone, but the use of a Your Tomorrows” and “The Future of Housing reverse mortgage in the right situation can — It’s The Shape of Things to Come,” featurchange a life for the better,” Brown said. ing Christine Peterson on the technologies that The loan program is insured by the federal will soon be impacting our lives and businessgovernment and has had many changes and es and Daniel Parolek on new concepts for consumer safeguards added over the past today’s neighborhoods. number of years. Safeguards include the Peterson is co-founder of the Foresight borrower’s need to obtain an educational certificate from a HUD counselor and to confirm Institute in Palo Alto, a think tank focused their knowledge and understanding of the loan on beneficial applications of transformative future technologies. Parolek is the principal of program.

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Valley business participates in expo

EconAlliance to host dinner, presentations

Buellton’s Radiance Tanning has new owner Kristine Hanberg, owner of Treats Women’s Boutique in Solvang, has purchased Radiance Tanning and Boutique at 225 McMurray Road in Buellton and plans to reopen the store on Nov. 4, after doing some remodeling.

Check Radiance Tanning and Boutique’s Facebook page for updates.

Parks Plaza Theater appoints new GM After the unexpected death Sept. 22 of Shawn Gran, owner of Parks Plaza Theater, his family has decided to continue the business and has appointed longtime employee Roger Navarro as general manager.

Gran’s wife Denise said Navarro has been a loyal and devoted employee and has demonstrated his ability to provide a good customer experience at Parks Plaza.

“We were saddened to learn of Shawn’s passing and send our sympathies to his family,” said Kathy Vreeland, executive director of the Buellton Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Bureau.

Gran’s establishment contributes not just to Buellton but the entire Santa Ynez Valley community, she added. He particularly noted his help with the chamber’s annual Oscar Award ceremony galas and other fundraisers.

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MYRNA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 and beyond.

On to December and “The Holidays.”

Dinners, office parties, one food event after another. And food gifts that we just can’t say no to. That wouldn’t be polite.

This continues until we reach January 1, when we start with our resolutions again.

By the way, how are you doing on last January’s resolutions?

What about stress? Let me count the ways. Not keeping your resolutions so not fitting into that new little black dress or unable to button the top button on your shirt. See guys, I didn’t forget about you. Shopping and cooking for 18 of your favorite and not so favorite family members with their food allergies, fussy eaters and visits that last too long.

Finding the right gift, or worse, re-gifting and giving it back to the person who gave it to you in the first place. Whoops!

Let’s not forget what I call Family Roulette. With whose family do we spend which holiday? Or do we just have two Thanksgiving dinners? See above and double the numbers!

And let’s not forget a medical condition called SAD, seasonal affect disorder.

The darkness coming earlier can bring darkness to some people in the form of depression.

Let’s all stop for a minute, think of someone or something that makes us thankful, and dwell in the moment. It will do your heart good.

Myra Howard, a family nurse practitioner for 26 years, works at the Buellton Medical Center.

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ILLNESS IS A LEADING CAUSE OF DISABILITY, DEATH

November effort raises diabetes awareness

by Stacey Bailey

Dietitian, SY Valley Cottage Hospital

N

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ovember is American Diabetes Month, sponsored by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) to focus attention on education, awareness, empowerment and support of the diagnosis.

One in 11 U.S. citizens has diabetes, which is more than 29 million people. Every 23 seconds, another person is diagnosed with diabetes. More than 89 million people in the county are at risk of developing diabetes.

According to ADA, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and there is no known way to prevent it. Approximately 5 percent of people with diabetes have type 1, which means their body does not produce any insulin.

Insulin is critical in order for the body to transport glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into cells for energy. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day to live.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for 90 to 95 percent of cases in the United States. It is caused when the body does not produce or use insulin properly.

Risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include being overweight, having a family history of diabetes and having diabetes while pregnant (gestational diabetes). Some people with type 2 diabetes can control their blood glucose (sugar) with healthy eating and being active; others may require oral medications or insulin, especially as the disease progresses. Type 2 diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, as well as in all older adults.

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States and can

DELIVERIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 request to those in the county and city seats, that Uber be held to the same standard as taxi drivers. Even though Uber has effectively decimated the taxi industry in cities around the world, I am not asking that they go away completely but rather that they also be regulated. This is to the benefit of both the drivers themselves and also their passengers.

As it stands now, it is much more risky for someone to ride with Uber than with a taxi driver because they are protected with the laws that are currently in place. It seems only fair that Uber is given the same treatment, for the safety of everyone involved.

Tulio Gutiérrez Solvang

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I attended last Thursday’s debate in Isla Vista, hosted by KCSB, between the candidates for county supervisor, and after making my way through the hecklers at the door I sat beside two students from this great university.

For the first time in this ridiculous election season, I was truly hopeful as my two seat mates were polite and genuinely interested in hearing both candidates and making an informed

cause blindness, nerve damage, kidney disease, and other health problems if it is not controlled.

The good news is that you can lower your risk for type 2 diabetes by more than half if you make positive changes including eating healthy, increasing your physical activity and losing weight.

Throughout the year here at Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital in Solvang, I offer free diabetes education and nutrition classes open to the public. As a clinical dietitian, I share information on diabetes diagnosis and risk factors, and support healthy eating habits and ways to live a full life with diabetes. Just come to the hospital’s conference room (enter through the Physicians’ Clinic door in front) for these informal, free classes. No RSVP is required and you can bring your own lunch to eat during the class if you’d like.

Here’s the schedule for free classes in November and December: n Friday, Nov. 4, 12 to 1 p.m. – Let’s Get Candid About Calcium n Friday, Nov. 11, 12 to 1 p.m. – Healthy Holiday Eating Tips n Friday, Nov. 18, 12 to 1 p.m. – Potluck n Monday, Dec. 5, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Carbohydrate Counting for Diabetics n Monday, Dec. 12, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Diabetes Management Options n Monday, Dec. 19, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Conquering Diabetes Complications For more information, please contact me directly at 805-694-2351 or email sbailey@ sbch.org decision. This proved to be challenging as members of the Hartmann team seemed intent on disrupting Mr. Porter’s remarks. Equally discouraging was the intimidating and nasty tone of the disruptive students, and yet my seat mates remained undaunted in their effort to hear from the candidates.

My faith was restored when after a highly disruptive and rude departure by Ms. Hartman’s supporters during Mr. Porter’s closing statement, a clear majority of the audience remained to hear Porter complete his remarks. Most surprising was the vocal applause at the end of Porter’s remarks and I sense he struck a chord.

Porter was approachable, well researched, and informative about what he would do if elected. He spoke less in generalities than his opponent and showed a particular drive for improving the lives of citizens of Isla Vista and it seemed to resonate with my seat mates.

As we made our way out of the event and through the crowd of activists, we agreed that despite the distractions, Porter made a compelling case and was a genuinely nice man. They were moved by concern for the environment and for a safer Isla Vista and were embarrassed by their peers’ behavior.

For myself, I am interested in solutions and Porter has my vote. I am pleased that my seat mates shared my enthusiasm.

Tami Bollay Santa Ynez

November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 15

spotlight

ROBIN LAROCHE HAS IT IN THE BAG

Local craftswoman follows in grandmother’s footsteps

by Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

R

obin Laroche can’t recall a time that she hasn’t been doing something artistic and creative, and for that she credits her late grandmother, Helen Petersen, who died when Laroche was just 2 years old.

“My grandma Helen was an amazing painter and she used to teach kids how to work with leather. I have all of her leather- working tools and still use them. It’s a way to stay connect-ed with her,” Laroche said as she pounded and stamped a piece of leather that she was turning into chaps for a client.

The fifth-generation Solvang resident spends much of her time in her small shop on her family’s property up Chalk Hill Road, where she creates leather pieces that range from hand-bags, clutches and jewelry to chaps and chinks (shorter chaps). She even made her own sad-dle.

“I like working with leather because this little shop is my safe haven. I don’t listen to mu-sic while I work, I listen to the wind and horses, and think,” Laroche said.

In the early 20th century Laroche’s great-grandmother Clara Nielsen made her way from Texas to Solvang, where she married and became Mrs. H.G. Petersen. Her family started Niel-sen’s Market but Petersen eventually sold her interest in the market and put her efforts into the sales yard and feed lot that used to be near Flag Is Up Farms on Highway 246. Her son Bob Petersen, now 88, started Buellflat Rock Company on the west end of Solvang. He is known as a great storyteller, especially of what it was like growing up in the area and how he met his wife, Helen.

“I met my wife when she was 3 years old, as she was the little sister of a friend of mine.

It wasn’t until I came back from my time in the Army during the Korean War we started going together. She was an amazing artist that could write her name at the same time with both hands and it would look identical. Robin definitely got her artistic talent from my wife,” Petersen said.

Photos by Daniel Dreifuss Robin Laroche, owner of Robin Laroche Designs handmade leather goods, starting working with leather in 2001.

Laroche started working with leather when she worked at the Alisal Guest Ranch in Solvang after graduating from Santa Ynez Valley Union High School in 2001. She made the tops of old cowboy boots into purses and started selling them to guests at the ranch.

After a trip to Europe, Laroche came back feeling restless. Her father introduced her to Thomas “Mas” Blackwell, a local leather craftsman, and Laroche began pestering him for leather scraps and lessons in the trade.

Finally, he made her an apprentice.

“He had me cleaning saddles, taking them apart to wash and oil them and then put back together. After weeks of that he had me carving and working with tools until he felt comfortable with me doing small jobs for him,” Laroche said.

Before she left for a summer to work at a guest ranch in Colorado, Blackwell had Laroche build her own saddle from the ground up.

It took 70 hours, but it gave her the inspiration she needed to seriously start crafting her own products when she got back from Colorado.

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“I bought leather crafting machines and tools and this little shed and started making everything I could get my hands on,” she said.

Laroche mainly goes to pop-up trunk shows, and she gets most of her clients by word of mouth. Her day job is as brand ambassador for Rancho Sisquoc Winery, out Foxen Canyon Road between Los Olivos and Santa Maria.

She will be hosting a trunk show from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday Nov. 10, at Design Alternatives, at 1693 Mission Drive, next to Chomp Burges, Shakes and Fries in Solvang.

For more information on Laroche and her leather goods, go to www.robinlarochedesign. com or her Facebook page by searching Facebook for Robin Laroche Design.

Above, some of Laroche’s finished purses hang outside her workshop in Santa Ynez. Below, Laroche works on a leather purse.

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16 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

star veterans

Coast Guard member protects nation’s ports

by Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

B

ryan Watts spends his days in the Coast Guard protecting the United States by inspecting foreign and domestic cargo ships while also checking them for safety and pollution problems.

“I am not in the action as other military branches are, but I do oversee planning stages for disaster situations, and making sure that all ships coming to port are safe for our waters,” he said.

Watts is a 2001 graduate of Santa Ynez Valley Union High School and grew up in his parents’ shop, Julehus in Solvang. He is stationed in Mobile, Alabama.

“I watched (the movie) “Perfect Storm” and knew I was meant to go in the Guard. It sounds cliché but it’s true. I wanted to serve

VET’S DAY ROUNDUP

VFW to begin Veteran’s Day program at 11

The service of our nation’s veterans will be honored with a Veteran’s Day program, organized by the local chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, that begins at 11 a.m. Nov. 11 at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Building.

A reception will follow the free program with music and food available. The Vets Hall is at 1745 Mission Drive in Solvang.

‘Cannon Ball’ is formal dinner and dance

The public is invited to attend the American Legion and VFW’s formal dinner-dance called

my country,” he said.

Watts followed in his father’s footsteps by attending the Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn., after high school. The requirement for the academy is a five-year commitment after graduation. Watts majored in mechanical engineering, and his first assignment after graduation was in Port Smith, Va. “I reconnected with a high school friend, Maggie Murray. She was also living in Virginia at the time. We started dating and are now married with two kids. She never knew I had a crush on her in high school,” Watts said.

After a year in Virginia, Watts was reassigned to the Bahamas and his wife, now Maggie Murray-Watts, went into the Peace Corps stationed in Panama. While in the Bahamas, he was assigned to deck watch on a patrol ship that monitored ships coming into U.S. territories. After several months he then the Military Cannon Ball from 5 to 10:30 p.m. at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Building.

The event includes a no-host bar, dinner, and dancing to 1940s Rose Garden Dance Band. Dress is formal or semi-formal, coat and tie. Tickets are $55 by calling Al Salge at 6939133, or $57 online at www.SY ValleyVets.org.

When he finished his degree, he started with oversight on construction and operations of all U.S. commercial ships, studying plans and safety standards to ensure they fit regulations. Watts and his family were then transferred to Mobile, where he inspects ships.

“We have had a ship detained for several months because they have had so many violations of safety standards that we can’t allow them to leave port. I’m sure they’re frustratPhoto contributed ed, but it’s a part of the job to make sure we Bryan Watts, a 2001 graduate of Santa Ynez Valley Union aren’t liable if anything happens to them when High School, spends his days in the Coast Guard protecting they leave port,” Watts said. the United States by inspecting foreign and domestic ships.

His enlistment will be done next summer, and Watts said that he is debating whether to worked at the U.S. Embassy coordinating stay in or try another career. patrols and search and rescues “I really love the valley and hopefully my “I didn’t want to be in the Bahamas forever, family will make it back there someday. It’s so I decided to go back to school and get always Christmas when we come home, espemy marine engineering degree in graduate cially at the Julehus,” he said with a laugh. school,” Watts said.

personnel can select one complimentary item from a special Veterans Day menu.

El Torito: Active and retired military personnel can select one complimentary item from a special menu on Nov. 11 from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Home Depot: Home Depot offers a 10 percent discount to all veterans on Nov. 11.

Home Depot offers the 10 percent discount year round to for active duty and retirees.

Knotts Berry Farm: Active duty military and veterans receive free admission for themselves and a guest, as well as six additional tickets for a discounted price from Nov. 1 - 18 Businesses across the nation will offer veterand Nov. 28 - Dec. 16. ans with freebies and discounts. The following Lowe’s: All veterans receive a 10 percent partial list has been confirmed, either through discount on Nov. 11. The offer is available in press release or direct communication with the stores only. company via Military.com. Keep in mind that Meineke: On Nov. 11, all veterans will most businesses require proof of military service. receive a free basic oil change at participating Applebee’s: Veterans and active duty mililocations. tary receive a free meal from a limited menu, Mimi’s Cafe: All veterans and active duty on Nov. 11. military will receive a complimentary entrée Chevys Fresh Mex: On Nov. 11 from 11 with the purchase of any non-alcoholic bevera.m.-10 p.m., all active and retired military

Businesses honor veterans with discounts

age on Nov. 11. On Nov. 12 and 13, veterans and active duty military receive their choice of breakfast, lunch or dinner entrees on the Veterans Day menu for $5.99.

National Parks: On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, veterans will have access to over 100 National Parks that require entrance fees for free.

Queen Mary: The Queen Mary offers free admission to active service members, retired military personnel, veterans and special discounts for their family members on Nov. 11.

Ronald Reagan Presidential Library Veterans Day Celebration: Visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library for live music, a Civil War encampment, a military vehicle display, and honor guard, and remarks by Vice Admiral Fred Midgette. The event is free, but reservations are recommended.

Wienerschnitzel: Veterans and active duty military receive a free chili dog, small fries and a 20 ounce drink on Nov. 11.

For a complete national list of Veterans Day freebies, go to www.military.com/veterans-day

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November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 17

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Local vet recalls a combat soldier’s best friend ficient at telling where decoys were and how far away they were.

“Dogs are even trained in detecting trip wires, and it’s said they can hear the vibration from the wire against the wind,” Cobb explained.

He disagrees with any assumption that dogs can’t tell the good guys from the bad guys, as Moose saved him on many occasions by givby Raiza Giorgi ing signals. He could tell how bad situations news@santaynezvalleystar.com were by reading Moose’s body language.

“Moose was highly trained and had already ogs are more than man’s best friend to started out across a makeshift bridge when I noticed the center of the bridge was missing Vietnam combat veteran Eric Cobb.

He recalls fond memories of Moose, its walking planks. Just as he threw one of his ‘better not miss this’ alerts, and all hell broke his German shepherd scout dog, that saved loose. It was an ambush and I kept asking his life and the lives of countless American myself, ‘How in the hell did I get myself into soldiers in Vietnam. The Santa Ynez Valley this situation?” Cobb recalled. resident now has two dogs, Annie and Cash, Cobb and Moose were assigned to the Ninth that accompany him wherever he goes.

Division, 43rd Infantry Platoon Scout Dog, Cobb recently sat down at his hangar at the which was the southernmost American unit Santa Ynez Airport, where he spends most of his time these days, flying his homebuilt Long- operating in South Vietnam, he said.

In an area full of jungle, rice paddies, rain, EZ plane and enjoying the freedom of flying.

Cobb was born in Mantrose, Colo. His father, mud, booby traps and hit-and-run Viet Cong, Eric Cobb Sr., was a B29 fighter pilot in World Cobb said, they patrolled looking for the eneWar II but never saw combat because his train- my hiding in caves, canal banks, foxholes, rice ing ended just before the war ended. However, paddies and man traps.

“We were treated very well and I don’t think the father instilled in the son a love of flying I had to carry my pack ever. Just my gun and over countless hours of flying together.

“I was 19 when I got drafted into the Army. canteen of water, while the infantry behind me I went through basic training, where I learned carried my pack and Moose’s gear,” Cobb said.

There is a bonding between man and animal how to crawl through the mud, shoot a rifle, that makes them a valuable team working todisassemble and assemble it with a blindfold gether for the same goal — survival. Together on, and do more pushups than I can remember. I then was assigned to Advanced Infantry they do quite well, Cobb added.

“I tend to forget the red ants, flies, leaches, Training and reported to Fort Benning, Georand mosquitoes all trying to get a bit of me. gia, to scout-dog training,” Cobb said.

The sweat dripping on my glasses, making it He liked dogs but didn’t understand just hard to see, and needing a bath because I can’t how important they were until he got to Vietnam. He trained with his first dog, Baron, remember when I had one. Every time Moose and I were sent to support some mission, it was in the States. They were put through rigorous tests learning signals and alerts and finding the someplace where the action was,” Cobb said.

After the Ninth Division was pulled out in “enemy” in well-hidden locations.

“German shepherds were used because they 1969, Cobb and Moose were reassigned to the Fifth Mechanized Division in northern South are one of the few breeds of dog that likes to Vietnam. hunt man,” Cobb said.

“I remember patrolling a canal when I saw He was then was assigned to Moose shortly before flying overseas. They became very pro- a boat approaching and Moose sent me his

Among all the dogs of his life, Moose holds a special place for Eric Cobb

D

walked into a car dealership and bought a brand new Buick GT and drove 64,000 miles in nine months across the country. Back in California, he worked at a hardware store in Brentwood, then for an architect and then became a cabinet maker in Santa Monica.

“I started building my airplane and when I finished I had people asking me to help build theirs, so it ended up being a full-time job,” Cobb said.

In 1992 he was invited to a friend’s property in Photos contributed Paso Robles and he jumped at the chance to get Vietnam combat veteran Eric Cobb is shown with Moose, away for a break. When he got home from work the scout dog that saved his life and the lives of countless he turned on the television, which he rarely did, American soldiers in battle. and happened to catch Los Angeles Mayor Bradsignal. Just as I saw the people in the boat they ley remarking about the Rodney King verdict. started firing at us and, well, we took care of it.

“I got in my plane and didn’t really think That’s all I have to say about that,” Cobb said. much of it, but I kept hearing over the radio He says there must have been someone comments of what was happening. On Sunday watching over him during his 444 days in I came home and it was like flying over a Vietnam. He returned to the United States combat zone. Seeing the glow of orange from without a scratch on him, but he said the emo- fires all around the city, I knew it was time to tional scars are with him forever. get out,” Cobb said.

“I know a lot of guys that don’t talk about He packed his truck and moved to the Santa what happened over there. When we came Ynez Valley with his computer, tools and clothes. home we were called ‘Baby Killer’ and treated “I love this valley so much. Every time I fly I like outcasts, when we were doing what we like to do the pattern of flying over Lake Cachuthought was keeping our country safe. You ma, then along the San Rafael Mountain Range really learn about yourself when you’re in war, where some friends have a ranch, then around and I learned that I am a fighter, and I am a to the Santa Ynez Mountain range where other natural leader,” Cobb said. friends have a ranch and back. It’s a gorgeous Cobb received the Bronze Star, and four loop and it never gets old,” Cobb said.

Army commendations with valor devices and Cobb keeps very active in his retirement. Beoak leaf clusters. He was honorably discharged sides flying, he has taught himself how to make as a staff sergeant. and play guitars. His dream one day is to make When he returned from the war, Cobb music and travel — with his dogs, of course.

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18 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

Local group sends help to front lines

SYV Support the Troops misses October shipment, needs help with Christmas care packages

by Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

R

etired Air Force Col. Pat Sullivan realized in 2004 that the war in the Middle East wasn’t going to end anytime soon, so she decided to do send care packages to help the U.S. troops there.

“I know that especially in remote places there just isn’t the provisions they need or want, and wanted to help any small way I could. I started with a few friends and we have been packing boxes every month ever since,” she said.

Sullivan and Sonie Lindquist, both valley residents, launched SYV Support the Troops — but October was the first month they didn’t prepare any packages, because of a lack of funds. Sullivan tries to provide as much as she can from her own pocket and has had support from local organizations such as the Santa Ynez Elks, but the donations have been dwindling.

“We need all we can get for our Christmas boxes. We are hoping to raise $20,000 because the cost of shipping overseas is so expensive,” Sullivan said.

The recipients are usually connected to someone from the Santa Ynez Valley, whether it’s a relative or a friend or co-worker. They send

letters to Sullivan requesting things such as phone cards to call home, jerky, baby wipes, moisturizer, shampoo, batteries, and sanitary items for the women.

To see the things that the group sends, and find out how to help, go to www. supportsoldiers.us.

“We don’t just send to soldiers in the Middle East. We are now sending to the Philippines and Africa. Wherever there are conflicts, we want to make sure our troops have provisions and a little love from home,” Sullivan said.

The volunteers gather each month at Bethania Lutheran Church in Solvang and spend hours prepping and packing the boxes to be shipped.

“What I love most about this is the volunteers that come and spend the day helping our soldiers,” said volunteer Robin Gehrs.

Sullivan has lived in the Santa Ynez Valley since 1974, when she was stationed at Vandenberg Air Force Base in Lompoc, and she loves calling the valley home.

“I have been in space programs since I started my career in bioastronautics and have worked on engineering projects since,” she said.

The next packing date, for the Christmas box shipment, is at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 30. To learn more, call Sullivan at 688-8404.

Sullivan encourages donating to the group’s GoFundMe page at www.gofundme.com/ wstcarepackages?ssid=775999723& pos=9, following them on Facebook at We Support The Troops SYV, or logging onto www.support soldiers.us.

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“Thanks so much for the very considerate package that you sent my Marines and I. We have a need for everything in the package.

Already the guys are arguing over who gets what. It’s quite comical actually.”

From Afghanistan: “Afghan National Army Air Corps Mi-17 that I just flew around.”

From Iraq: “Let me say thanks again for the support and all the good thoughts and well wishes.

Knowing you guys support our actions makes a difficult job a little more tolerable.

Please pass on to all of the students and other supporters our heartfelt thanks.

Take care and I hope to hear from you again soon.

Semper Fi, Mike”

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November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 19

TORPEDOES, SHARKS AND BLISTERING HEAT

Sailors’ survival is just one dramatic story from WWII

by Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

I

magine floating for multiple nights and days in the South Pacific with no land in sight, surrounded by pieces of your shattered ship and other sailors, some alive and some dead. Imagine braving the heat of the day, the lack of water and food, and the hungry sharks that were eating your comrades.

And imagine discovering, years after your rescue, that the mission your ship had just completed was a top-secret effort that was vital to winning World War II. That was the experience of Edward Brown, and except for some luck it could have been worse.

Brown passed the story along to his son, local disc jockey Jay Turner of Sunny Country 102.5 FM, before he died several years ago. His ship, the Indianapolis, was sunk just after delivering enriched uranium and parts for the atomic bombs that were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Brown was assigned to the USS Indianapolis as a gunner and a crane operator.

“Only three people knew what was on board, the captain and two Marines guarding the cargo container that carried the enriched uranium and parts which became the atomic bomb. My dad, remember, was a crane operator, and he was the one that lifted the cargo from the ship to the deck at port of Tinian island,” Turner said.

Tinian Island, midway between Australia and Japan, was the base the American bombers used to attack Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The Indianapolis was built in 1930 as a light cruiser because of its relatively thin armor, but then reclassified as a heavy cruiser because of its 8-inch guns, according to a history posted at USSIndianapolis.org.

Earlier in the war the Indianapolis was almost sunk multiple times during Japanese attacks during the New Guinea and Aleutian Islands campaigns. During the Battle of Okinawa in March 1945, Brown was wounded by enemy fire, which earned him a Purple Heart.

The ship and crew went back to San Francisco for repairs and recovery, and then were chosen for the secret mission that changed the war.

Because the mission was so top secret, the Indianapolis sailed thousands of miles unescorted to avoid enemy attention. After delivery, as they were sailing to their next assignment, a Japanese submarine’s torpedoes struck just after midnight.

“My dad got off duty at midnight and went down to his bunk, but because of the warm tropical air their captain said if some sailors wanted to they could sleep on deck. My dad thought his hammock was too hot down below so he grabbed his bed roll and went up top. Just a few minutes after he laid down, the ship was hit,” Turner said.

The ship sank uncommonly quickly, in just 12 minutes. (For comparison, the Titanic sunk in four hours.) When the Indianapolis was hit,

Photos contributed Edward J. Brown, at left, was a gunner and a crane operator on the USS Indianapolis, one of 317 survivors from a crew of nearly 1,200 after Japanese torpedoes sunk the ship. Above left, those who survived the sinking the of the ship had to float for several days and nights without food or water, surviving excruciating heat as well as shark attacks. Survivors, above right, of the ship’s sinking covered themselves in diesel oil to act as sunscreen while they floated for days awaiting a rescue.

the engine room didn’t know what was going on and kept its propellers turning, which just brought in more and more water and made it sink faster.

Since people in the Navy’s chain of command had no knowledge of the Indianapolis’ mission, they didn’t even know the ship was missing.

The operations headquarters on Guam, which maintained boards to plot the positions of vessels, assumed a ship as large as the Indianapolis would come in on time or report if they would be late, so it was removed from the board.

“Ships usually send out SOS signals when they are in distress and sinking, and the Indianapolis did, but since it sunk so quickly the radio tower thought it was a Japanese trap when more signals weren’t coming in and dismissed it,” Turner said.

That left the Indianapolis sailors alone in the water.

About 300 of the crew of 1,196 went down with the ship after the torpedoes hit. Of the nearly 900 who were left treading water, only 317 survived.

“My dad talked about his time in the water, and it was very traumatic. They formed chains

of men linking their legs together to keep afloat. Some men died from dehydration, others died of hypothermia, and some went crazy and killed themselves by just sinking on their own,” Turner said.

At first the sailors would send off their dead with a prayer and a push, but when the sharks showed up they kept the dead to feed to the sharks.

“It was a very primal instinct to stay alive no matter what. I can’t even imagine having to make those decisions the men made,” Turner added.

His father said that he and the other sailors would also sing the hit song “Don’t Fence Me In” to pass the time as they drifted.

Planes had flown overhead from time to time but didn’t see the wreckage. By chance, one plane that was having trouble with its radio antenna saw the oil slick and then saw the men.

It dropped a life raft and a radio transmitter and flew off to get help. A PBY Catalina, an amphibious plane, was dispatched to confirm the location. It was ordered not to land because the Navy wasn’t sure the wreckage was friendly, but the captain disobeyed his orders and landed

after he saw sharks eating the men.

Brown told his son he was the second man pulled aboard and that men were climbing and sitting anywhere they could. They lined the wings and bent them so badly that the plane had to be sunk after the survivors were rescued by the USS Cecil J. Doyle.

“Imagine if my dad had stayed below deck that night. Or had died from starvation or dehydration or by shark. He should have died many times over the course of those days and didn’t. He was meant to survive,” Turner said.

In addition to being a radio host, Turner is also an emcee for many events on the Central Coast, including some shows at the Maverick Saloon and Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez. He has always been involved with music in some way.

When he realized he was good at playing but not great, he got involved in the technical side.

“The Santa Ynez Valley has always been a favorite place of mine, and with the newer venues popping up like Standing Sun and Figueroa Mountain Brew in Buellton, I enjoy coming down here even more,” Turner said.

You can listen to Turner weekday mornings from 6 to 10 a.m. on Sunny Country 102.5 FM.

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20 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

out & about in the valley See our interactive map online.

LOS ALAMOS

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Buellton Medical Center - 195 W Hwy 246 - www.buelltonmedicalcenter.com

Coast Electronics - 225 McMurray Rd. #B

- www.coast-electronics.com Creation Station - 252 E Hwy 246 thecreationstation.com Figueroa Mountain Brewing - 45 Industrial Way www.figmtnbrew.com

Gypsy Bohemian and Vintage Treasures - 518 Avenue of Flags Mother Hubbard’s Restaurant - 373

Avenue of Flags - www.motherhubbardsrestaurant.com

One Children and Maternity Consignment - 240 E Hwy 246 Ste 105 - face-

book.com/oneconsignment Pattibakes - 240 E Hwy 246 - pattibakes. com Rio Vista Chevrolet - 390 E Hwy 246 www.riovista.com RPL Management - 175 McMurray Rd. Ste. E - rplmanagement.com Santa Ynez Valley Marriott - 555 McMurray Rd. - www.syvmarriott.com

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LOS ALAMOS

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Buellton Historical Society - 51 E Hwy

standingsunwines.com

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350-7900

Standing Sun Wines - 92 Second St -

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A-Ok Equipment - 321 McMurray Rd. -

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2425 School St.

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9 miles north

Bruce Porter Edward Jones - 1090 Edison St. Suite 101 - edwardjones.com

law.com

www.dogsunlimited.net

sion Dr. - thelandsby.com

Dogs Unlimited Mobile Grooming -

Lana Clark - 1607 Mission Dr. - lanaclark Mad & Vin at The Landsby - 1576 Mis-

El Rancho Market - 2886 Mission Dr. Mie’s Beads - 1539 A Mission Dr. 1880 Union Hotel - 362 Bell Street elranchomarket.com miesbeads.com Esau Interiors - 1060 Faraday St. The C Gallery - 466 Bell Street New Frontiers - 1984 Old Mission Dr. Los Alamos Mens Club - 429 Leslie Street Santa Ynez Feed & Milling Company - NewFrontiersMarket.com 3532 Sagunto St. - www.santaynezfeed.com Nielsen’s Market - 608 Alamo Pintado Rd. Sollievo - 259-7462 - www.sollievo.co Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum - - nielsensmarket.com 3596 Sagunto St. - santaynezmuseum.org Nojoqui Falls Park - 3200 Alisal Rd. LOS OLIVOS Santa Ynez Valley Opportunity Shop Nojoqui Horse Ranch - 3000 Alisal Rd. 3630 Sagunto St. - www.lessismore.org Berkshire Hathaway - bhhscalifornia. nojoquiranch.com Summerset Farm - 3450 Baseline Ave. com Old Mission Santa Ines - 1760 Mission Dr. 805-245-0989 Clairmont Farms Lavender - 2480 Pacific Northwest Trading - 1689 CoVets Here! - vetshere.com Roblar Ave - www.clairmontfarms.com penhagen Dr. - 688-9955 Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding Figueroa Mountain Brewing - 2446 Ala- www.vinovaqueros.com Root 246 - 420 Alisal Rd. - www.root-246. mo Pintado Road www.figmtnbrew.com

Road - www.globalgardensonline.com

SANTA YNEZ AJ Firearms - 3681 Sagunto St. Suite 104 - AJFirearms.com

Back at the Ranch - 1108 Edison St. Baker’s Table - 3536 Numancia St. Ste. 104 - www.thebakers-table.com

Cuddlebug - cuddlebug.biz Central Coast Landmark Properties

- 1090 Edison St - www.centralcoastlandmarkproperties.com

com

SOLVANG

Global Gardens - 2450 Alamo Pintado

Dr. Catherine Streegan - 2027 Village Lane #201 - DrCathy-Dentist.com

Atterdag Village of Solvang - 636 Atterd- Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital

ag Rd. - PeopleWhoCare.com

Dr. Dennis Bales - 2040 Viborg Rd. #240 www.visionsource-dennisbalesod.com

C&D - 690 Alamo Pintado Rd com

- www.cdllp.

CHOMP - 1693 Mission Dr. - chompsolvang. com

Elverhoj Museum of History & Art -

1624 Elverhoj Way

Hans Christian Andersen Park - 633 Chalk Hill Road

-2050 Viborg Rd. - CottageHeath.org/syvch

Sunny Fields Park - Alamo Pintado Rd. Tower Pizza - 436 Alisal Rd. - towerpizza

solvang.com

Want to be listed on our map directory?

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November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 21

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22 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

star lifestyle

Turkey Bingo still bringing families together from the laundry line until dad could take care of it, in other words,” Kelsey said.

This year the family-friendly event will start with doors opening at 5 p.m. and the games beginning at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19, at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall. There

by SYV Star Staff are no more live turkeys, as there were in the news@santaynezvalleystar.com days at Dania Hall, which stood on the site of the current Greenhouse Cafe in Solvang. But emories of live turkeys in gunny hundreds of people still flock to the event in sacks squirming under the tables hopes of winning, and children running around Dania Turkey Bingo has been a long-time holiday Hall make Kathy Kelsey of Alpha Pi Sorority tradition in the Santa Ynez Valley. It was origsmile. inated in 1913 by the Hejls Minde 23 chapter “We would take the turkey home and hang it of the Danish Society of Dania of California

Alpha Pi Sorority continues a century-long tradition

M

and Nevada. The wives of the Dania men started the Danish Ladies Society, Dannebrog of Dania, and took over the event in 1937. Alpha Pi then took over in the late 1980s and has run the event since.

“My mom was in the Danish Ladies and we loved helping out at the event. It’s always just been a fun family event,” Kelsey said.

Turkey Bingo hasn’t changed much since the beginning. It still costs just a dime to play a game, although the turkeys are bought from El Rancho Marketplace in Solvang. Up for grabs this year will be 60 turkeys, and the last turkey won will also come with a basket full of Thanksgiving goodies.

“As long as we can keep it 10 cents we will.

We want anyone to be able to come and play no matter what their situation in life might be,” Kelsey said.

There will also be other prizes to win, including gift baskets and certificates to local shops. Snacks and dinner are served by local organizations and the menu changes each year.

The women of Alpha Pi also ask that people not bring alcohol as they want to keep it a family event. They also ask people to contact them first if they want to donate something for the raffle or contribute to the event.

Call Kelsey at 688-5804 or Shirley Hernandez at 688-4607.

Local author writes mysteries for the fun of it

by Pamela Dozois

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

L

ida Sideris had wanted to write a book for at least half of her life. As a child she got hooked on Nancy Drew books, which launched her love of mysteries and “cracking the case.”

Now the Santa Ynez resident writes her own mystery novels, the first of which was published last year titled “Murder and Other Unnatural Disasters.” She introduces her protagonist as Corrie Locke, a newly minted lawyer with thick, mostly manageable hair, a partially furnished beach pad, covert access to a high-end wardrobe, and a dream job in a movie studio.

She’s the daughter of a late, great private eye, and together they solved a few hard-tocrack cases, which makes everyone assume she’s inherited her dad’s sleuthing skills. She is ultimately blackmailed into investigating a suspicious death. Unlike Sideris, her heroine thrives on taking risks.

A former entertainment attorney, Sideris based her first novel loosely on her first job as a lawyer. She is presently the executive director of the Santa Barbara County Bar

Association.

After graduation from Southwestern University School of Law, Sideris didn’t want to work for a law firm and everyone from her mother to the postman told her she would never get a job in the entertainment field if she didn’t first work for a law firm. But she had other ideas in mind. She started the Entertainment Law Society, which brought in luminaries in the field of entertainment law to speak to the students.

“I had the pleasure of taking one or two of these speakers to lunch, one of whom was Carol Akiyama, then Senior VP of the Alliance of Motion Picture & TV Producers, who opened the first door for me,” Sideris said. “It wasn’t long after that I found my dream job in the film industry working for Lorimar-Telepictures in Newport Beach, and then in Culver City.”

Sideris began her literary career writing short articles for magazines, mostly about what was happening in her own life, and things that interested her most. The magazines began to accept almost everything she wrote.

Her confidence grew.

The San Francisco Writers Conference was offering a scholarship for writers. At the last minute she decided to write and submit the first chapter of a work of historical fiction based on stories her grandmother had told her.

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She won the Bharti Kirchner/San Francisco Writers’ Conference Scholarship. Encouraged by the fact that people thought she was a good writer, she wrote another eight chapters of the book but felt that the subject matter was just too depressing. Instead she was inspired to write a fun, light-hearted mystery story.

“I wanted to write a book that was fun and I wanted my readers to be on this adventure with me,” she said.

It took her nine months to complete the first draft, writing at the library during her lunch hour, early in the mornings, and in the evenings.

“After finishing the first draft I did something a writer should never do, I submitted it to various agents. You should never send out your first draft; it’s all about re-writes. I didn’t hear anything back but for one agent who said the only thing he liked about the book was the title,” she said.

Feeling a little deflated by the rejection, Sideris stopped writing for two weeks but she said that in hindsight it was actually a blessing as it forced her to go back and do re-writes – well over 100 revisions. She then won the McCloy/Mystery Writers of America Scholarship Award; that was a big door-opener, she said. She met three agents who were interested in her book but received one publishing offer

from a publisher in New York, The Wild Rose Press, which she immediately accepted.

“Since writing the book I have been meeting the most wonderful people,” Sideris said. “It has been so much fun. I get to travel, do speaking engagements, book signings, and sit on panels with other authors.”

“My suggestion to anyone who has a dream — now is the time to go after it! As Joseph Campbell said, ‘Follow your bliss.’ Following mine has produced such enormous satisfaction in my life.”

Sideris recently returned from the Central Coast Writers Conference in San Luis Obispo, where she was part of a panel of authors speaking about “How to Turn Your Book into a Movie.”

Her second book in the series is completed.

It is now in the re-write stage so it shouldn’t be long before it is on the self.

“The Santa Ynez Valley is such a wonderful place to live and write a book,” she said.

Sideris lives in Santa Ynez with her husband Ken, her chickens, and her two rescue shepherds.

“Murder and Other Unnatural Disasters” is available locally at The Book Loft, and at Chaucer’s in Santa Barbara, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com.

For more information, email Lida@Lida Sideris.com or visit www.LidaSideris.com.

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November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 23

A good neighbor makes you feel welcome Originally from Germany, Birgit Bielitzer has lived in the valley since 1969

E

ver think about what the Santa Ynez Valley was like 30 years ago?

I love hearing about it from Birgit Bielitzer, who has lived in the valley since 1969.

She is one of those people who is not only knowledgeable about all things SYV, but will do anything in her power to make you feel welcomed here. I know this first hand as Birgit, until several months ago, had been my across-the-street neighbor since we moved here three years ago.

If a frost was coming, Birgit would call and remind us to cover our plants. One time I left my car door open and Birgit called me to see if I knew that I had — and I didn’t. Besides saving me from dead car batteries and dead plants, she and her husband, Bill, instantly made us feel like a part of the neighborhood family and community. It was a beautiful and welcomed change for us. And now I get to share her with you.

Where did you live before you moved to California in 1965?

I lived in Germany.

How did you wind up in Santa Ynez Valley?

My husband, Bill, got transferred in the fire department to Los Alamos. He was a captain in the Santa Barbara County Fire Department for 33 years. Initially I just came for a visit and didn’t think I would stay, until I met Bill on a blind date. I was visiting my relatives in Santa Barbara.

Then I went back to Germany, got my things and came back to live here and we got married in 1967.

What did the valley look like when you first moved here?

There was nothing on my street, just two houses, and the road was a dirt road,

By Robbie Kaye with snakes lying across the road and there were fields all around us. No hardware store. Just a grocery store in town run by an older lady. They sold a little bit of everything, like a real little country store. The same gas station on Sagunto was there and the little library, which is still there. It wasn’t until about 10 years later that they started building houses and schools in the neighborhood. There wasn’t a sewer system at the time so after they installed that, they started to build more things.

How has the valley changed since you moved here?

There’s a lot more people and stores, real estate offices, a casino and even a pharmacy and flower store, all these things we didn’t have before. In Solvang you could get a cup of coffee and a pastry for 50 cents. In Buellton, they had a little animal zoo where you could pet the animals. They also had tigers, gazelles and lots of wild animals and shows. When we first moved to the valley there wasn’t a movie theater and now there is. We didn’t have any fast food restaurants, we only had Nielsen’s and El Rancho, which was really small at that time.

What is one of your favorite things to do here in the valley?

We like to go on rides and go all over and look at the vineyards, to Nojoqui Falls Park and stop at the fruit stands. We love to drive up Fig Mountain at fall time, and I really enjoy working at the House of Treasures thrift store for the Humane Society.

I’ve been volunteering there for the last 15 years.

What is your favorite thing about working at the Humane Society?

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You can find small pieces of furniture, a lot of books, old and new, and you can find kitchen ware, things for animals, leashes and clothes for dogs. We also have expensive crystal that we get from estate sales and paintings and lots of clothing — jeans, cowboy boots, sometimes old, sometimes new.

Where do the proceeds go?

The proceeds all go to the no-kill animal shelter in Buellton.

How can someone volunteer at House of Treasures?

All you have to do is come into the store and talk to one of the sales associates there and they’ll pass on your info to the person in charge.

What is your favorite time of year in the valley?

My favorite time is fall, because there are so many colors and berries get ripe, like pyracantha bushes and toyon bushes. They are so beautiful. And the chokecherries that the bears like to eat.

You can stop by the House of Treasures, Photo by Robbie Kaye 393 Alisal Road in Solvang, and ask Birgit to tell you a story about what the valley Longtime Santa Ynez Valley resident Birgit Bielitzer loves to volunteer at House of Treasures Thrift Store, where the was like when she moved here. Call the proceeds go to the Humane Society.

Santa Ynez Valley Humane society, 805688-8224, in Buellton if you have any We have really nice people working questions about animal services. there and it’s fun to meet people from all over the country. It’s fun to talk to the Robbie Kaye is a designer, photographer and author. See her work at www.robbie visitors.

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24 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

Make plans now for Julefest fun, festivites

by SYV Star Staff

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

J

ulefest is a month’s worth of holiday-themed activities for the entire family in Solvang.

We are publishing the Julefest calendar of events early so you can make your plans to come to many of the great activities.

In our December issue we will have more coverage and will announce the grand marshals of the Julefest Parade.

Those interested in being in the parade should go online and download the application. Entries are free, and this year’s theme is “Coming Together”. Here’s the link: http://cdn.solvangusa.com/digital_ files/1093/2016-solvang-parade-julefestapplication-1.pdf.

Dec. 2 – 4 and Dec. 9 - 11, Shop, Mingle & Jingle Solvang welcomes holiday shoppers with special events and entertainment. Discounts

and deals at Solvang merchants of all sorts, such as art shops and galleries; book-sellers; wine tasting rooms; wine and beer bars; clothing, shoes and accessories boutiques; home furniture, décor and hardware; jewelers and antique stops; and restaurants, bakeries and specialty food stores, plus free parking.

perform an animated play written by local theater artist and orchestrator Larry Skahill.

The original work is a comedy telling the true meaning of Christmas through the eyes of a donkey and mouse.

Kids waiting in line to see Santa will be able to enjoy the play.

Friday, Dec. 2, 5 p.m.

Tree-lighting Ceremony Community ceremony to light the city’s Christmas Tree in Solvang Park (Mission Drive & First Street). Free live entertainment with area bands, choirs and caroling culminating in ballerinas from local dance studios performing around the tree.

Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 2 - 4 Visit Santa Claus Free visits and pictures with Santa in Santa Village in Solvang Park n Friday, Dec. 2, 4 - 6 p.m. n Saturday, Dec. 3, 12:30 - 4:30 p.m. n Sunday, Dec. 4, 11 - 2 p.m.

Wandering Dog Wine Bar and more.

Saturday, Dec. 10, 5 and 7 p.m.

The Community Nativity Pageant Two free shows at Solvang Festival Theater, 420 Second St. Enjoy an elaborate stage presentation of the nativity story featuring live animals, musical accompaniment and narration.

Tuesday, Dec. 13 “Holiday Lights Tour” The Holiday Lights Tour is presented by Solvang Parks & Recreation Department. For more information, call 805-688-PLAY.

Wednesday, Dec. 21 Third Wednesday & Farmer’s Market Enjoy Solvang Third Wednesday deals at Saturday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m. local merchants; the weekly Santa Barbara Julefest Parade Photo contributed Certified Farmers Market from 2 to 6 p.m.; Solvang was voted one of the top 10 “most Christmassy” towns in America. the Solvang Third Wednesday Wine & Beer Walk from 3 to 7 p.m.; and Solvang Third The annual Julefest Parade begins at 11 Village in Solvang Park Wednesday discounts at local hotels. a.m. Entries include Danish dancers, musical n Saturday, Dec. 10, 10 – 4 p.m. groups, vintage vehicles, horses, carriages and n Sunday, Dec. 11, 11- 2 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 6, 2017 animals. The parade originates at Old Mission Solvang Christmas Tree Burn Santa Ines (1760 Mission Drive), travels west Dec. 10 - 11, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Attend the free annual Solvang Christmas on Mission Drive (Highway 246), turns left Julefest Wine & Beer Walk Tree Burn in the fields at Old Mission Santa on Fourth Place, turns left on Copenhagen Get a two-day passport for wine- and Ines, 1760 Mission Drive, from 5 - 7 p.m. The Drive, and ends on Alisal Road at Mission beer-tasting at more than a dozen tasting event is coordinated by the Solvang Parks & Drive. Santa Claus will be available for rooms in Solvang: Casa Cassara, Dascomb Recreation Department and supervised by the post-parade visits and photos in Solvang Park. Cellars, Lions Peak Vineyards, Lost Point, Santa Barbara County Fire Department as one of the largest fire-safety demonstrations and Lucas & Lewellen, Lucky Dogg Winery, Saturday, Dec. 3, community gatherings on the Central Coast.

Olive House, Pace Wine Tasting, Presidio Children’s Christmas Play There will be free, live entertainment as well Winery, Royal Oaks, Sevtap Winery, Sort About an hour after the parade, kids will as refreshments for purchase.

This Out Cellars, The Good Life, Toccata, Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 10 - 11 Visit Santa Claus Free visits and pictures with Santa in Santa

Cheers to our local wine industry SHUTTERS • SHADES • BLINDS

by Tracy Farhad

Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau

W CLOSETS

ine tasting and touring are a memorable and definitely not-tobe-missed experience that attracts visitors and also entertains you and your friends year-round.

Planted, nurtured and harvested with exceptional care, local grapes are crafted into award-winning wines that are sipped and savored world-wide. Most of the more than 120 wineries in the vicinity are small boutique operations, family-owned and operated. In downtown Solvang, more than 20 tasting rooms are just steps apart, making for convenient, palate-pleasing options such as award-winning Lucas & Lewellen, Wandering Dog and Carivintas, to name just few.

We’re proud to be home to the 2015 California Travel Winery of Year — SEVTAP

— now located at 1622 Copenhagen Drive in Hamlet Square, under the blue windmill, helmed by the industrious Ertegrul “Art” Sevtap. The background of this man with seemingly unlimited energy, including working as a line cook for Chef Emeril in New Orleans, is as notable as his vintages. Be sure to stop by and relax in the new outdoor patio, right next to the great new location of Bacon & Brine restaurant.

The Oscar-winning 2004 movie “Sideways” that was filmed here helped plant Solvang and surrounding areas firmly on the wine scene. There are now six federally sanctioned American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) within Santa Barbara County: Santa Maria Valley and the Santa Ynez Valley, which are broken down into four sub-AVA’s (Sta. Rita Hills, Ballard Canyon, Los Olivos District, and Happy Canyon).

They comprise more than 23,000 acres of vineyards that annually produce more than

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a million cases of wine such as chardonnay, pinot noir and syrah, but also top-notch sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio, cabernet sauvignon and viognier.

Stroll through vibrant vineyards or visit tastings rooms here in town to sip, swirl and savor the flavors. Wine tasting events abound during the year. Last month, the Santa Barbara Vintners Celebration of Harvest held the Festival Grand Tasting at Old Mission Santa Ines here in Solvang. Solvang Third Wednesday features a Wine & Beer Walk every month.

Every December, our SCVB staff is proud to coordinate the Solvang Julefest Holiday Wine & Beer Walk. It’s cheer-fully happening this year from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 10-11. You can stroll about downtown and sip local vintages at more than a dozen wine and beer tasting rooms offering samplings.

Tickets are only $45 per person for the 2-day passport, including a souvenir etched wine glass (you must be 21 years or older, naturally). Purchase your tickets online at www.SolvangUSA.com.

Join your friends and savor these vintage flavors of our local wine industry. It’s the bounty we are blessed with. Cheers!

Tracy Farhad is the executive director of the Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau, the nonprofit agency promoting the culture, cuisine, shopping, arts and attractions of “California’s Little Denmark.” For more information, visit www.SolvangUSA.com.

November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 25

LIFE IS WORTH LIVING AS LONG AS THERE’S A LAUGH IN IT

A sense of humor can be a way of life Ian Bernard, writer for “Laugh In,” says that humor makes existence more interesting

I

first met Ian Bernard at the Santa Barbara Writer’s Conference, where he had taught a humor workshop for 20 years. Before that, he had written comedy for the television program “Laugh In” and was under contract to write movies for Columbia Pictures.

Ian and his family immigrated from Canada when he was just a talented little kid who could tap dance and sing. Then he learned to play the piano. His aunt had a dancing school, so the dancing lessons were free.

Before he knew it, he was giving shows at the Stage Door Canteen and elsewhere. He can remember it well, although he is now deep into his 80s. He gave up tap dancing a while back but still gives piano concerts.

Considering his professional background, we asked him about the importance of having a sense of humor.

“You really can’t teach someone to be funny, but you can help them to learn to write humor,” he says. “The late comedian Jack Benny was intrinsically funny, while Bob Hope was a performer who depended on his writers. Jonathan Winters was an absolute genius at humor. Today Paula Poundstone, Jon Stewart and Stephan Col-

bert can be funny, and also Jerry Seinfeld.”

“It was important for me to have a good sense of humor because I made my living at it. For others I think it can help them get through life — and also it’s very good for a marriage.”

This multi-talented guy actually played the piano for the comedian Eddie Cantor and then insulted him.

“I was a 23-year-old kid who was playing the piano for the rehearsals of Eddie Cantor’s Colgate Comedy Hour. I went over to Mr. Cantor and told him that it was really not a very good song for him and that I could write a better one!

“He looked me over and then said, ‘Well, just go ahead and try.’ So I did, and he liked it and asked me to write another for the next show.

That’s how I got started with television work.”

Ian’s musical career, arranging, producing and performing, zoomed along with such stars as June Christy, Dick Haymes, Vic Damone and Michael Feinstein. Then he thought it was time to slow down a bit and became the president of the Santa Barbara Jazz Society. Now he’s retired but his sense of humor is not, and he admits that he never knows what he’s going to say next.

So, getting back to our original subject, I asked him how important it is to have a sense of humor.

“Well, some people just have no sense of humor, but they don’t really know it. If you don’t have it, you don’t miss it. But it certainly helps one get through life, and it makes day-to-day existence much more interesting!”

Simple and frequent movement essential to health

by James Riley Contributing Writer

I

t is common knowledge that an efficient heart and circulatory system are important to health and fitness.

Most seniors know that the heart pumps blood through arteries and it returns via veins to be re-oxygenated and cycled again.

Fewer understand that the contraction of muscles, especially large muscles as we move, squeezes the arteries and veins to greatly assist the heart in its task of moving this life-nurturing blood. When sitting, the circulatory system is not functioning as efficiently as when movement occurs and muscles are contracting. Movement aids circulation.

Lymph is also a life-giving fluid, It is moved through the body in lymph vessels, much as blood is moved through blood vessels. Lymph removes waste, excess fluid, pathogens and toxins from the body, which are all important functions for health. Unlike the circulatory system the lymph system has no heart pump. The flow of fluids depends on the contraction of muscles through movement and “joint pumps.” Movement is essential to the lymph system.

The fluids that nurture our encapsulated joints are moved by the forces of compression and osmosis, which are also driven by movement. Joints are stiffer in the morning because while you sleep compression is not occurring and osmosis is, resulting in a slight swelling of the joints. When you arise and move, the resulting compression forces some fluid out of the joints and flushes them, reducing stiffness.

To maintain a healthy cardiorespiratory system, lymph system and healthy joints, the common requirement is that we move frequently during the day.

A primary cause of decline in health and fitness among seniors is what I call stagnation: the lack of low-intensity, simple movement through the day, resulting in the failure to move nourishing fluids to the cells and joints of the body.

Fitness requires movement, It need not be a chore; For you sedentary seniors, You should be moving more: Stagnation is the villain, Of health and fitness I will tell; Increase activity in your day, By moving often and moving well.

The importance of frequently performing habitual, low-intensity movement should not be minimized. Such regular movement is more important than a more intense 30- to 60-minute workout performed three times weekly. Although I recommend such formal workouts, they do not replace the need for frequent movement. A vigorous workout followed by inactivity is not a healthy lifestyle. It is stagnation: inactivity that slowly deconditions the body. To improve and maintain health and fitness, one simply needs to move often throughout the day.

Suggestions for low-intensity movement: 1. Walk, don’t ride 2. Do your own chores 3. Park away from store entrances 4. Take the stairs 5. Don’t sit for long periods 6. Stand up during TV commercials 7. Make life less convenient and do more work In summary, simple, frequent movement will alleviate pain, prevent illness and improve your health and fitness as you move nourishing, life-giving fluids efficiently through your body.

James Riley of Solvang is a certified strength and conditioning coach and a Level One Olympic Lifting Coach who holds a B.A in physical education, M.A. in psychology and a doctorate in education. He can be reached at jimhriley@gmail.com.

Solvang’s Chritsmas House Since 1967 1580 Mission Drive Solvang, CA 93463 (805) 688-6601

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26 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

Artists bring passion to life Quick Draw event features artists completing original work of art in 60 minutes

by Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

A

rtist Luis Ramirez wouldn’t categorize his style of art as realism or abstract, but he has a fondness for painting recognizable things with a push of abstract elements using a muted Spanish palette consisting of four colors.

His professional life takes him from central California to Mexico as a food safety inspector for an international produce company, but the Santa Ynez Valley native maintains his passion for painting.

He will be one of the many artists featured in the upcoming Quick Draw series that spans Friday through Sunday, Nov. 4-6, with the main event Saturday morning at Flag is Up Farms in Buellton.

The Quick Draw event, now celebrating 30 years, features more than 20 artists who complete an original work of art within 60 minutes. It is sponsored by the Santa Ynez

BACK AT THE

RANCH Whether you live it, remember it, or merely dream of it…

backattheranchsy

backattheranchsantaynez

Anniversary celebrates a decade of ‘growing’

by Puck Erickson Contributing Writer

T Photo contributed Santa Ynez Valley artist Luis Ramirez, who will participate in this year’s Quick Draw Nov. 5, likes to paint from a real subject instead of a picture.

Valley Arts Association.

“I like to convey sincerity in subjects that are not typically deemed beautiful. I use drawing, painting, and sculpture techniques to represent spaces and bodies of agricultural people. I personify them with affection and objectivity using imagery that allows the viewer to interact and identify with a body, space, and narrative that otherwise would remain disconnected and invisible to a common consumer or citizen of this country.” Ramirez said.

This will be the fourth Quick Draw for Ramirez, who has been an artist for as long as he can remember, starting with sketches of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He started seriously pursuing his passion in high school.

He graduated in 2003 from Santa Ynez Valley Union High School and attended Hancock

College, then Cal State Long Beach, where he received a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. He also studied at the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts in Guangzhou, China.

Ramirez refuses to work from a photograph, preferring to have a live model.

“For me it is more about problem solving — drawing, painting, and redrawing. Adjusting color, saturation, temperatures, and values. I try to do it as quickly as I can,” he said.

“Agriculture workers are the backbone of our economy because they are an affordable labor source for food production. I identify and connect with these people because they are my parents,” he added.

Highlights of the Quick Draw weekend include a free reception Friday evening at the ARTISTS ONTINUED ON PAGE 27

o

20th Anniversary Sale continues through Nov. 13th 1108 Edison strEEt downtown santa YnEz 805-693-0055 opEn dailY

SYV BOTANIC GARDEN

CHOMP burgers fries shakes Open 7 Days a Week 11:30am to 8pm

Back Roo Availablem

for your Holi Work Part day ies!

he Buellton City Council took a leap of faith and entered into an agreement (an MOU as they are called in the trade) allowing a newly formed non-profit foundation to build a botanic garden on a parcel of land adjacent to the western boundary of River View Park in November of 1996. The city had been required to set aside this land for habitat mitigation for the Western Willow Flycatcher, an endangered species who likes to nest just up river from Ellen’s Pancake House.

A group of volunteers felt this was an opportunity to create a habitat area that would also inspire more community interaction with the natural environment of the Santa Ynez Valley. So with little offered in the form of reassurance, other than some plans, photos, and much enthusiasm from some bright eyed optimists, the council voted to support the creation of the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, the only public botanic garden between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo.

Standing on dirt piles created from the remains of highway mudslides and excess from local construction sites, the founders envisioned a garden where the public would be exposed to local native plants, learning in detail about their botanical characteristics and role in local ecosystems. Looking back, one wonders just how rosy those glasses were.

In truth, the group saw the place through the narrow lens of the diehard plant lover. The group’s first mission statement expressed this fairly concisely, The Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden at River View Park is dedicated to partnering with the community in an effort to educate the public and increase awareness of native riparian habitats throughout the Santa Ynez Valley.

By the second year, after volunteers planted 73 native trees and people began to walk the paths, the foundation discovered the Garden was growing more than plants; they were growing community. People watched in amusement as we battled weeds, gophers, and Bermuda grass.

Children came and sowed wildflowers and built tule boats. A willow maze formed through the random explorations of energetic 9 year olds seeking adventure. A new mission statement was created after witnessing the community’s desire to connect with the natural world and the effect this connection was having on so many.

The mission of the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden Foundation is to provide a unique, accessible and interactive environment, highlighting plants native to the Santa Ynez River watershed.

GARDEN CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

o

November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 27 to Executive Director Pam Pilcher.

Thomas spent the majority of his professional career in law enforcement, starting his first shift with the Montclair Police Department in 1968, and then moved to Santa Barbara County in 1973. He Local author Gary Robinson will sign eventually became a copies of his book, “Lands of our Anceslieutenant in 1982 and tors,” telling a Native American view of the headed the SWAT team California mission history from 5 to 7 p.m. when he ran for sheriff Nov. 3 at the Book Loft in Solvang. in 1986. His first run he The book is based on Robinson’s hislost to the incumbent torical and cultural research and for fourth but ran again and won graders along the Central Coast learning in 1990.

Thomas about mission history to use as an introducThomas was also the tion to Native Californian life. The main county’s interim fire chief and ran both the character is a 12-year-old Chumash boy tell- police and fire departments for three years ing his perspective of life with his family. until a fire chief was hired.

“Fourth grade is the time and place He retired in 2002 and then worked as a Californians get their first dose of historicorrespondent for NBC News during the Mical myth when it comes to learning about chael Jackson trial and now works with Aera the Spanish missions. That’s been the case Energy in governmental and political affairs. for decades, but thankfully there is a trend towards teaching a more honest history,” Robinson said.

The book is available at the Book Loft and at amazon.com and IndianCountry Books.com.

Happy Endings Animal Sanctuary is

ART & NONPROFIT NEWS

Author views mission history from new POV

having its annual fundraiser, “Rock for Horses,” at 6 p.m. Nov. 19 at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott in Buellton.

The benefit raises financial support for the sanctuary’s rescued horses.

There will be dinner and dancing to classic rock bands with special guest stars.

Tickets are $60, available at 448-7138.

range of her work can be seen on her website: www.laurelsherrie.com This exhibit is one of a continuing series of shows made possible by the commitment of the Los Olivos Café to showcase local Engaging art by Laurel Sherrie will be on view and for sale at the Los Olivos Café art and artists. Santa Ynez Valley Art Association (formerly the Artists Guild SYV), a from Nov. 3 through Jan. 5. nonprofit arts organization with more than Sherrie paints landscapes of treasured places, sharing her passion for rural, coastal 30 years of history in the area, coordinates and manages the “art without borders” and wild areas of the Central Coast. Her installation in cooperation with the café. work is known for rich color using traA portion of art sales benefits the organiditional oils and lots of paint. She loves zation, which considers these collaborative painting on location (plein air) in the quest efforts a way to keep art alive and accessifor perfect light, with the aim of capturing life as it exists at that very moment. A broad ble in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Farm Winery and a visit to the studio of local artist Seyburn Zorthian.

Participants can enjoy a Sunday morning brunch provided by Country Garden Catering before setting out to explore the self-guided “art crawl” in Buellton and then taking a guided tour of some of the Lompoc’s famous murals.

Flag is up Farms is the home of Pat Roberts, a renowned sculptor and one of this year’s Quick Draw participants, and her husband Monty Roberts, the original Horse Whisperer.

Saturday’s main event opens at 10 a.m.

Guests can enjoy live music, browse the art walk, and peruse the silent auction before stepping into the virtual studios of more than 20 renowned artists as they work to complete an original work of art within 60 minutes.

Introductions of the artists begin at 10:30 a.m. and the Quick Draw will begin at 11 a.m.

The featured artists present their unique styles, from how they lay out their tools, to the medium in which they work, to the subjects they choose. All of them have studied for years, had their work shown at prestigious galleries, museums and in private collections, and won countless awards.

Afterward, there will be a chance to take home the work, fresh off the easel, of a favorite Quick-Draw artist for the highest bidder in a spirited live auction that will begin at 12:30 p.m. Additional works from the Quick Draw artists will be for sale in the Featured Artists’ exhibition next to the silent auction.

This year’s Quick Draw features artists

Sanctuary fundraiser supports rescued horses

Ex-sheriff Thomas joins Theaterfest board Retired Santa Barbara County Sheriff Jim Thomas has been elected to the board of directors for Solvang Theaterfest, according

ARTISTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26 Elverhøj Museum of History and Art, the 30th Quick Draw event on Saturday morning on the grounds of Flag is Up Farms; and a free closing artists’ panel and reception Sunday afternoon at the Wildling Museum of Art and Nature.

Friday evening also offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy “Bel Canto by Candlelight,” an evening of outstanding opera at the Sunstone Winery or to participate in an art class taught by Bettina Norton at the Alma Rosa tasting room in Buellton.

For outdoor enthusiasts, NatureTrack is offering an “’Art’ of Figueroa Mountain Geology” outing Saturday morning. Afternoon events include wine tasting at Buttonwood

GARDEN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26 The Garden will encourage community collaboration, foster new approaches to environmental education, and cultivate an appreciation of the natural world. As a source of inspiration and information, the Garden will be a venue for arts and crafts, and a peaceful refuge for visitors of all ages.

In its infancy, only the dreamers could ‘see’ a Garden, as we wandered the paths imagining an area for propagation or a place to sit and read.

Walk-Ins Welcome

Laurel Sherrie art to be displayed

Vicki Andersen, Chris Chapman, Ken Christensen, Camille Dellar, Jim Farnum, Kevin Gleason, Mark Greenaway, John Iwerks, Gary Johnson, Jay Johnson, Renee Kelleher, George Lockwood, Joe Milazzo, Vel Miller, Donna Moser, sculptor Richard Myer, Karina Puente, Luis Ramirez, sculptor Pat Roberts, Arturo Tello, and Jerry Vande Berg. Information about each artist and examples of their work can be found at www.santaynezvalleyarts.org.

The nonprofit Santa Ynez Valley Arts Association benefits the community through programs that include support for area art students, free educational lectures for the community, affordable member shows and sales, and collaborations through a variety of outreach efforts to promote the arts and culture within the Santa Ynez Valley.

Now as the trees have grown, their branches shading paths and sheltering birds, and heartfelt wishes are hung in the willow grove, we thank everyone in the community who has supported this endeavor, yesterday, today or tomorrow.

Please visit our website to see our annual Calendar of Events and come visit. It is your garden.

Free Coffee with breakfast for two or more

Puck Erickson is the executive director of the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden and owner of Arcadia Studios, a landscape architectural firm.

COUNTRY CUTS 1673 Fir Ave • Solvang, CA 93463

(Behind Ace Hardware)

+

Photo contributed “Call of the Wild, Paintings of California Wild Places” is the new Art Exhibit at Los Olivos Café.

.

.

Notice the new phone number to call/text for an appt.

Kathy 805 478 1642

Walk-In’s Always Welcome ~ No Appointment Needed Men ~ Women ~ Children Open Monday thru Saturday 9:30ish to 6:00ish

R

E

S

T

A U Opened in 1978

R

A

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Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Homestyle cooking just like Mom did

Family Owned & Operated for 38 years by 6 generations of Buellton family

Where the locals eat!

Across the street from Pea Soup Andersen’s

688-3912

373 Avenue of the Flags • Buellton, CA

28 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

‘Vino de Sueños’ to benefit vineyard and farmworkers

by SYV Star Staff

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

T

he public is invited to celebrate the hard work of local farm and vineyard workers at People Helping People’s ninth annual Vino de Sueños wine release event.

Vino de Sueños (VDS) will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Nov. 12 at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott in Buellton.

Vino de Sueños (Spanish for “wine of dreams”) is a wine label conceived in 2008 by a small group of premium Santa Barbara County vintners in conjunction with the local nonprofit PHP to honor the contributions of farm, ranch and vineyard workers.

Money generated by the label helps to fund PHP’s numerous services to families and individuals of limited means, including food, nutrition education, physical and mental health wellness care, youth mentoring, and alcohol and drug abuse prevention services “under one roof.”

All 2016 VDS wine has been donated by longstanding Santa Barbara County wineries: Alma Rosa, Buttonwood, Dierberg/Star Lane, Foxen, Ken Brown, Kita, Longoria, Palmina, Quail Crossing, Riverbench, Standing Sun, Stolpman, and Vogelzang.

White and red wines for every taste and pocketbook will be available. Wines are expected to sell from $12 to $40 depending upon the varietal and vintage, and they are

Photo contributed Katie Torres, Mario Torres, Arcelia Sención and Jose Juan Ibarra, from left to right, each enjoy a glass of wine at the 2015 Vino de Sueños event.

specially discounted for this fundraising event.

Each VDS label features a reproduction of an original art piece from one of 10 different local artists. What has resulted from the marriage of the winemakers’ and artists’ talents is ”a series of wonderful wines with extraordinary labels that just jump off the bottle. These labels and the original works they represent are truly collectors’ items,” said VDS Chairwoman Becky Barieau.

In addition to tastings and sales of exclusive VDS wines, the event will include an auction of all original art pieces used on the 2016 VDS labels, a silent auction of upscale lifestyle items, live music, and appetizer stations catered by four local chefs.

For tickets and more information, visit www.vinodesuenos.com.

VALLEY ENTERTAINMENT

A fun fall lineup of music and art H owdy! It’s been a while. Thank you to everyone for supporting my column. I believe I owe you some events celebrating the accomplishments of our local Santa Ynez Valley residents.

I hope you can come and support them. You can RSVP by emailing me at alchavezups@yahoo.com.

n Nov. 12, 12 - 1 p.m. at Petros in Los Olivos, $22.

Lunch for 24 featuring Christopher Barnes, Midland Head of School n Nov. 13, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., “Above & Beyond” A free-admission family event featuring professional and amateur photographers and upcoming artists for a full day of non-stop music. Roblar Winery will have wine and food available for sale.

Art and photos available for purchase.

Musicians: 11 - 11:30 a.m. Kayleigh Hollum 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. ShaShaty 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Terry Lawless

1:30 - 2 p.m. Amy Koers Curti 2 - 3 p.m. ShaShaty 3 - 4 p.m. Terry Lawless 4 - 5 p.m. Kaitlyn Chui n Dec. 3, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at Brothers at the Red Barn Lunch for 50 with Jim O’Shaughnessy, CEO of Prime Ammunition, speaking on current state and national gun legislation.

Hamburger lunch, $22. n Dec. 3, 4 p.m.-9:30 p.m., location to be announced.

Dinner with Noah Wyle, $150 - $200; RSVP based on $70 deposit.

Queen of Arts reigns over Elverhoj Museum and peruse the fine selection of handcrafted wood, leather and holiday items, botanicals news@santaynezvalleystar.com for the body, jewelry, ceramics, unique gifts and much more. he Queen of Arts Show and Sale Exquisite hand-crafted leather and fabric reigns over the gallery and garden bags will delight even the most seasoned at Elverhøj Museum on Friday shopper. Jewelry artists use vintage and and Saturday, Nov. 11-12. It is a festive contemporary beads, resin, feathers, semi-precious stones, hammered silver two-day celebration with maker-designed and more in their beautiful creations. goods, hand-crafted and sold by the artists Glass work, collage, and mixed media themselves. work will be available. Hand-built and Inspired surroundings, music, fun and thrown pottery will be for sale alongside food are paired with the artfully crafted functional and fun items for children and goods of more than 30 regional artists. for pets.

The show and sale will be held from 10 Photo contributed In addition to perusing a great variety a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1624 Elverhoy Way in Some of the “royal artists” for the annual Queen of Arts of one-of-a-kind items, guests are invited Solvang. There is no charge for admisShow and Sale at the Elverhoj Museum are Suzanne Sattler, to enjoy flavorful food truck cuisine by sion.

Mary Stanley, Syd McCutcheon and Diana Paul.

California Tacos from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“There is a great variety of imaginative preparing for two years, with 14 new artists both days. work with a wide range of prices,” said The artists are Emily Abello, Donna and 19 returning.”

Elverhoj Executive Director Esther JacobAnderegg, Kristen E. Bates, Laurie BurnShoppers are invited to meet the artists sen Bates. “Our ‘royal’ artists have been aby, Gabriel Bustamante, Joellen Chrones, Jessica Conti, Heather Federlein, Heather Green, Sukey Hughes, Marianne Huntley, Sandra Hopkins, Cindy Knight, Theresa DISCOUNT Laursen, Irina Malkmus, Mary Ann Mammone, Devin Marseilles, Lori McConnell, ON ALL PURCHASES Jill McCutcheon, Syd McCutcheon, Kerri Meeks, Monika Miehle, Shelley Nakano, WITH Diana Paul, Petti M. Pfau, Rebecca Plum, THIS AD Barbara Remick, Suzanne Sattler, Mary Stanley, Cari Summer, Cherie Virden, and Chelsea Ward.

518 Avenue of the Flags • Buellton, CA 93427 • 805 895-4739 purplegypsy27@gmail.com • Buy, Sell & Consign • gypsy_bohemian_vintage For more info, visit www.elverhoj.org or OPEN FRIDAY ~ SUNDAY 11AM TO 5PM & MONDAY ~ THURSDAY BY APPOINTMENT phone (805) 686-1211.

by SYV Star Staff

Someone not feeling well?

We will welcome your out of town guests during the holidays!

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195 W. Hwy 246 • Buellton, CA 93427

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ag & equine November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 29

VAQUERO SHOW AND SALE

Historical Museum roping in the fun

by SYV Star Staff

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

I

magine being out on the Santa Ynez Valley hills in the 1800s before the days of cars, when people had to plan out several days to go from one side of the valley to the other.

Cowboys, or vaqueros, were driving cattle and living off the land. The days of the Spanish American colonial period were coming to a close and cattle ranches were forming from Spanish land grants.

There aren’t many of those ranches left, but one of them, Rancho San Julian on Highway 1 just west of the Santa Ynez Valley, is still run by the descendants of the original owners.

There, the Poett family has kept the vaquero ranching tradition alive.

The Poetts will be honored during the 32nd annual Vaquero Show and Sale from Nov. 11 - 13 at the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum.

“We are so excited to have the Poett family come and present their family history and how they have kept the rich tradition of the vaquero alive,” said Chris Bashforth, the museum’s

executive director.

The annual event is designed to honor the lifestyle and horsemanship of the California vaquero, which blends classic European horsemanship and the “rough and ready” riding style of the rancher.

The Poetts track their heritage back to the De la Guerra family, descending from Jose de la Guerra, who came to America at 13 years old in 1792. He sailed from Cantabria, Spain, to work for his uncle Pedro Gonzales de Noriega, a rich merchant in Mexico City, according to the family history.

As a young man, De la Guerra had been assigned to the Presidio of Santa Barbara for a short time before he was reassigned to San Diego, and he quickly rose to a position of power in the colonial bureaucracy of Mexico.

After the Mexican war of independence, he should have been expelled because he was of European birth, but he came back as a captain to Santa Barbara. De la Guerra was ultimately promoted to comandante of the Santa Barbara Presidio in 1827.

De la Guerra negotiated to have Rancho San Julian under his presidio for a source of meat and income for the presidio soldiers. In 1837 he was granted ownership of San Julian, and

The Poett family’s participation isn’t the only thing different about this year’s Vaquero Show and Sale.

“Also new this year will be the demonstrations from working cowboys like Joe Olla and Pat Puckett, who will be showing us the ropes, literally,” Bashforth said.

Californio vaquero clinicians Pat and Deb Puckett, Bruce Sandifer, and local Vaquero ropers will demonstrate the unique styles of the vaquero tradition working with their bridle horses and cattle throughout the weekend.

Guests will see the timeless methods that the early Californio vaqueros used to work cattle Photos contributed in the safest, most humane ways on the vast Local cowboy, singer and songwriter Art Green Jr. will open range of the mid-1800s. perform Saturday night for the Cowboy Campfire during “With the general admission tickets, those the 32nd annual Vaquero Show and Sale Nov. 11 -13. who attend the sale can wander over to the empty field on Faraday Street behind the muhe also acquired Rancho Simi, Rancho Las seum and watch live demonstrations of roping.

Posas, Rancho Los Alamos and Rancho El It will definitely be an event for the entire Conejo. family,” Bashforth said.

When he died in 1858 Rancho San Julian On Saturday night there will also be a Cowwent to his sons, and it has continued as a boy Campfire, with local cowboy singer and working cattle ranch and farm land. The ranch songwriter Art Green Jr. and poet Don Hess. is now designated an “agricultural preserve” “We are also excited that the Santa Barbara that guarantees that it will keep its rural charVAQUERO CONTINUED ON PAGE 31 acter.

o

Tina McEnroe honored as Cowbelle of the Year

by SYV Star Staff

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

W

We cannot predict your future, but we can work with you to get the most out of it.

Join the nearly 7 million investors already planning for the future with their own Edward Jones financial advisor.

Photo by Raiza Giorgi As a fourth-generation cattle rancher, Tina McEnroe says she has beef in her blood.

ture to become the next generation of food producers.

“People are becoming so disconnected from their food sources, and learning about beef and all the different products it goes into is so important,” McEnroe said.

COWBELLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

o

Bruce Porter, CFP® Financial Advisor .

MKD-7654B-A

aking up before dawn to gather cattle with her father is among Tina McEnroe’s favorite childhood memories. As a fourth-generation cattle rancher, she has beef in her blood; keeping the rural, agrarian culture alive is important to the local educator.

She was recently honored as Cowbelle of the Year by the Santa Barbara County Cattlewomen at their annual dinner in September at the Red Barn in Santa Ynez.

“My husband told me we were going on a date with some friends and had some good news to share. It is an honor to be the Cowbelle, and I am so excited to help promote beef and education,” McEnroe said with a laugh.

The California Cattlewomen is a statewide organization with a local chapter that promotes and educates the public about beef, from its nutritional benefits to the uses of its byproducts.

The Cattlewomen raise money throughout the year to be given to agricultural organizations that have a beef component, such as Future Farmers of America and 4-H. They also give educational scholarships for students looking to further their education in agricul-

1090 Edison St Ste 101 P O Box 599 Santa Ynez, CA 93460 805-688-9079

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

30 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

VAQUERO SHOW & SALE

Event Schedule

by SYV Star Staff

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

T

he annual Vaquero Show and Sale is a community event, sponsored in part by Visit Santa Ynez Valley Association, museum members and local business supporters.

The show’s success is vital to the growth and sustainability of the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum and Carriage House.

Information and advance ticket sales for the Viva Los Vaqueros Preview Party & Gala Dinner and the Vaquero Show weekend are available at the museum, 3596 Sagunto St., online at www.santaynezmuseum.org or by calling 805-688-7889.

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Music throughout the day by Ron Miller of the Full Gallop Band. Cowboy lunch and no-host cocktails available Saturday and Sunday.

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Vaquero Show and Sale - $5 one-day admission

11 a.m. - Vaquero Roping Demonstration

- Live cattle roping will demonstrate different loops, such as the Houlihan, del Viento and Johnny Blocker, which the vaqueros used for different situations when doctoring or branding cattle. Day admission ticket is entrance to demonstration.

2 p.m. - Vaquero Roping Demonstration 6:30 p.m. - “Cowboy Campfire” - Gath-

er around a cozy campfire for an evening of chili and corn bread, cowboy poetry

by Don Hess and Western music by local favorite Art Green. Tickets are $25 per Tickets for the entire evening are $80 for museum members and $90 for others. adult, which includes chili and cornbread dinner; children 12 and under are free.

5 p.m. - Viva Los Vaqueros Preview Party and Gala Dinner - Early buying privileges, delicious “horse d’oeuvres,” complimentary drink, live auction and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Vaquero Show and music by Steve Woods.

Sale; $5 one-day admission

Friday, Nov. 11

Sunday, Nov. 13

6:30 p.m. - Special Recognition Families of Rancho San Julian Honoring the Poetts and founding families of Rancho San Julian, one of the few, great Spanish-Mexican land grants that remain in the family of the original recipient.

7:30 pm - Viva Los Vaqueros Gala Dinner - Dine around the fountain in the museum courtyard; delicious dinner prepared by JR Catering.

COWBELLE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

om version:

Saturday, Nov. 12

McEnroe has been involved with the Cattlewomen for several decades. She and her husband Paul live in Buellton, where they run a cow/calf operation on their ranch, Rancho La Purisima.

The couple also founded the Tina Hansen McEnroe & Paul McEnroe Reading & Language Arts Clinic at UCSB, where they offer early-intervention assistance to children with reading and language difficulties. The clinic serves children in first through eighth grades.

The McEnroes are also well known for their move of the historic Pleasant Valley Schoolhouse to their property several years ago. The one-room schoolhouse was originally established in Santa Maria and served as a school, non-denominational church, and community center from 1869 to 1936. It fell into disrepair after its closure, but McEnroe saw its potential and was able to restore it to its former glory.

“Everything in here is authentic,” she said, “from the alphabet strips to the kerosene lanterns to the actual clock that we found in

11 a.m. - Vaquero Roping Demonstration Music throughout the afternoon by Owen Johnston

1 p.m. - Vaquero Show raffle drawing – Custom bridle set handcrafted by four noted artisans: headstall by Doug Cox with silver appointments by Old Cow Dogs, bit by renowned bit maker Chuck Irwin, reins

by Bruce Haener, bosal bridle and braided rope by Bruce Sandifer.

Santa Maria that at one point had hung on these walls.”

Throughout the year, classes from all over the valley come to the Pleasant Valley Schoolhouse to learn about what it was like to be a student in the 1890s. The children wear period clothing and are taught from old McGuffey Readers. They use chalk and slate boards.

Sometimes, children from the McEnroe Reading Clinic come to visit the schoolhouse, which is something McEnroe loves to see.

“I am excited to blend the experience of coming to the classroom and learning about agriculture … we have a class from Los Olivos Elementary School coming this month and we will have a special lesson about beef education,” McEnroe said.

Some of her accolades are Cal Poly’s Honored Alumna Award; U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Excellence in Teaching Agriculture Award (the USDA’s highest teaching award); California’s Outstanding Educator of the Year from the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom; and Santa Barbara County Farm Bureau’s Outstanding Educator of the Year and Teacher Hall of Fame.

November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 31

KNOCKED FROM THE SADDLE

Local photograper stuggles against chronic illness April resulted with a head-shaped hole in the bathroom door and two weeks of a broadening array of symptoms.

“My left leg was completely numb and dragging behind me,” Borroel said, “and when I got to the bathroom I passed out, hitting my head on the counter before crashing through the door.”

by Drew Esnard She slept nearly 20 hours a day during the Santa Ynez Valley Star two weeks after the fainting episode, and as her prior symptoms got worse she began recent, unexpected diagnosis of a experiencing heart palpitations, lightheadedchronic illness disrupted some short- ness, nausea, irritable bowel syndrome, bouts term plans for Hannah Borroel, but of anxiety and depression, and increasing her sweet-natured determination combined impairment from “brain fog.” with a belief in personal responsibility for The incident and its fallout impelled her one’s health has reoriented her to pursuing her to find the underlying cause of her growing creative endeavors. constellation of symptoms.

A Santa Ynez Valley resident of 14 years, Her symptoms were only partially exBorroel began attending Brooks Institute in plained by an initial diagnosis of Postural Ventura on a whim in 2013, five years after Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a graduating from Santa Ynez Valley Union dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system High School. characterized by orthostatic intolerance, or When she wasn’t commuting or attending lightheadedness and fainting upon standing. classes, she worked at the barn at the Alisal A visit to Dr. Jessica Josslyn at Middle Path Guest Ranch. At school, she became know as Medicine, an integrative wellness center in “the girl who always photographs horses.”

Arroyo Grande, prompted a more complete “Horses and the Western lifestyle were diagnosis of Borroel’s illness with tick-borne a natural subject for me to start shooting,” Lyme disease. she said. “The Alisal became my canvas for “I laughed when my doctor asked me if I’d assignments.” ever been bitten by a tick,” Borroel said. “I’ve After graduating from Brooks Institute in been outdoors almost every day throughout 2015 with a BFA in Professional Photography, the last 10 years. Of course I’ve been bitten Borroel began assisting local travel photogra- by a tick!” pher Richard Lindekens while continuing her Lyme disease is a multi-system infection work at the Alisal. of a spiral-shaped bacterium called Borrelia However, she began experiencing a progres- burgdorferi , which is transmitted to humans sion of symptoms: a stiff neck, chronic headthrough the bite of infected ticks. The onset of aches, “brain fog,” and debilitating fatigue. the disease is often characterized by flu-like “I would only feel ‘OK’ for an hour or two a symptoms and a trademark “bull’s-eye” rash day,” Borroel said, “but I wrote it off as a com- circling the bite. bination of allergies and working too much.”

However, the CDC estimates that 30 Despite the mounting physical challenges, she percent of those infected with Lyme disease persisted through 60-hour work weeks. never get the rash, Borroel among them.

Then a trip to the bathroom one night in Symptoms evolve as the bacteria affects dif-

Brooks Institute grad Hannah Borroel wages battle with Lyme disease

County Cattlewomen will be making their famous Cowboy Chili for dinner that night,” Bashforth added.

A highlight of the weekend celebration is the gathering of noted artisans and collectors from throughout the western United States displaying and selling hand-tooled leather saddles, braided vaquero-styled riatas, bridles, reins, and other vaquero-inspired horse tack as well as Western

artwork, apparel, jewelry, memorabilia and collectibles.

All proceeds from the 32nd Vaquero Show and Sale benefit the nonprofit Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum and Carriage House in its mission to collect, preserve and share the rich history of the Santa Ynez Valley and to tell the early Western transportation story.

For tickets to the event can be purchased at www.santaynezmuseum.org or by calling the museum.

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news@santaynezvalleystar.com

T

A

VAQUERO CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

‘Bel Canto by Candlelight’ is an evening of opera

Photo Contributed Hannah Borroel’s diagnosis of a chronic illness has unexpectedly reinvigorated her photography career.

ferent systems in the body and often overlap with those of other chronic illnesses, making it very difficult to diagnose.

Extended antibiotic therapy ranging from three weeks to three months is the recommended treatment, according to the CDC, although the treatment is not without complications. Beliefs about Lyme disease differ greatly between specialists and there are many alternative approaches to its healing.

Borroel has found increasing relief from much of her disease since starting treatment in July with a plan to wipe out the bacteria in “layers.” Thus far, her treatment program has been composed of heavy doses of Lyme-specific natural herbs, probiotics, and silver hydrosol.

“People sometimes look at me like I’m a hippie freak,” Borroel said about discussing her rather alternative approach to treatment, “but I did a lot of research and have consulted closely with my doctor. I’m conservative and BORROEL CONTINUED ON PAGE 33

o

he Santa Ynez Valley Jewish Community has arranged for an intimate evening of exquisite voices, superb wines, and delectable dishes in the romantic courtyard and candlelit La Cav at Sunstone Winery.

The event is part of the Santa Ynez Valley Quick Draw and Arts Festival’s evening events on Friday, Nov. 4.

The “Bel Canto by Candlelight” soirée begins at 6:30 p.m. with an exceptional smallplates reception with local chefs Giorgio Curti of Amaranto Catering, Chris Joslyn of the Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café, and Amy Dixon of The Baker’s Table. Sunstone wines will be served along with an olive oil tasting, and guests will be able to browse a silent auction of art and wine.

After the reception, the candlelit La Cav will be filled with the pure voices of Internationally renowned tenor Eduardo Villa, a regular guest tenor at the Metropolitan Opera, Paris Opera, Rome Opera; baritone Brian Hotchkin, who has been noted “for his fine voice, which is strong and effortless through all ranges”; and soprano Nichole Dechaine, who has a “precise and yet delicate style, exquisite tone, smooth delivery and brilliant energy.”

Villa will sing La donna e mobile, Nessun Dorma, O sole mio, Granada, Maria, and duets with Hotchkin and Dechaine. Beverly Staples will be the accompanist.

General admission to the event is $125, which includes a glass of Sunstone wine, the reception and the concert. Tickets are limited and can be purchased at www.syvjc.org. No tickets will be sold at the door.

For more information, call 805-693-4243.

The Santa Ynez Valley Quick Draw & Arts Festival is being held over the weekend of Nov. 4-6. More information about all of the events planned, including the cornerstone Quick Draw event on Saturday, Nov. 5, can be found at www.santaynezvalleyarts.org.

Ryan Toussaint for

Solvang City Council The residents are at the top of my org chart and I understand that the residents loan the responsibility to the elected council members to manage the city’s departments and revenue.

I will listen to your concerns and make myself available to do so. I believe in due diligence to understand all aspects of an issue and enjoy logistical analysis to improve efficiency. I believe I can serve the City of Solvang in a way that everyone deserves. I will treat different opinions with fairness, transparency and accountability.

November 8, 2016 • votetoussaint.com POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR BY RYAN TOUSSAINT

32 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

food~drink

Fig Mountain celebrates anniversary with 4 medals

more than 1,600 breweries, according to the Brewers Association. news@santaynezvalleystar.com “Every year it is harder and harder to figure out what to enter and how to improve he production team at Figueroa your recipe again and again. We put a lot of Mountain Brewing Company has thought and effort into the planning for this added another honor from the Great competition and are so grateful it has paid American Beer Festival by winning four off,” said Kevin Ashford, head brewer at Fig medals in the 2016 competition.

Mountain’s Santa Barbara brewery and the The Buellton-based microbrewery chain company’s creative director. won a gold medal for “I Dunkeled In My In six years FigMtnBrew has grown from Pants,” a Munich-Style dunkel, and a bronze a small production facility and taproom for “Lighter Than I Look,” an American dark in Buellton to a six-taproom, four-brewlager, both made at the company’s Buellton ery operation with distribution throughout brewery. It also won bronze for FigtoberFest, California and Arizona, with plans to expand an Oktoberfest brewed in Westlake Village, soon to additional states. The fastest-growing and “Once You Go Schwarz,” a Schwarzbier craft brewery on the Inc. 5000 list, Figueroa brewed in Arroyo Grande.

Mountain also recently joined the Pacific This year’s results give Fig Mountain 17 Coast Business Times’ 50 Fastest Growing medals in the past five years at the festival, Companies list for California’s Central Coast. known as GABF for short.

FigMtnBrew will be hosting a sixth-anni“Taking home four medals is beyond our versary party from 1 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, wildest dreams. Brewing the best product Nov. 26,, at the Buellton taproom, 45 Induswe can is of the utmost importance to us. To re- trial Way. Admission is free, and guests can ceive these high marks from some of the indus- take advantage of the sixth anniversary bottle try’s leading experts is truly humbling,” said release a day before it goes on sale at the other Jaime Dietenhofer, president of Fig Mountain. five taprooms and in select local retailers.

This year there were nearly 7,400 beers For more information, go to www.FigMtn entered in the festival competition from Brew.com.

LIKE GRANDMA USED TO MAKE

by SYV Star Staff

T

Photo contributed Pattibakes bakery and café prepares for its 20th holiday season and is expecting to make more than 100 pies.

Pattibakes serves up classic breakfast and lunch fare

by Gina Pothoff Contributing Writer

Real. Good. Food.

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We’re all about your quality of life

P

attibakes in Buellton operates under the banner of offering “homemade baked goods like grandma used to make.”

The popular breakfast and lunch spot was founded on that principle in 1996, after owner Patti Wicks’ son was convinced his mother’s apple cinnamon coffee cake and scones were way better than ones sold elsewhere.

At the time, Wick’s son was working for the Roasted Bean (now known as Valley Grind in Santa Ynez), the first place to sell Wicks’ baked goods. After getting so many orders and encouragement from her family, Wicks’ decided to open her own bakery and eatery. Twenty years later and she’s still not sure how the bakery and café took off. Her specialty lies in the cream cheese frosting she makes for her cakes.

“I’ve always loved to cook, but my sister was the baker,” she said. “People love our sugar cookies.”

This month Pattibakes is gearing up for the holiday season that kicks off with Halloween-themed cookies. Then comes Thanksgiving and more than 200 pies filled with apples, blueberries, banana cream, peach, pumpkin and more.

Wicks and four employees bake up

another 100 pies for Christmas, not to mention the 250 dozen sugar cookies for the same holiday. The giving season means cakes for parties and special occasions, cookies for gatherings and gift baskets for friends.

Not bad for a former full-time bookkeeper.

“We make really good stuff,” Wicks said.

“I’ve got a great menu.”

The Hollywood native moved to Santa Barbara County in the 1970s with her husband, who helped launch Bradywicks antique furniture restoration.

Wicks said her favorite item on the menu is always the latest addition. For September, it was tres leches cakes, which is an airy sponge cake soaked with a mixture of three milks.

The cakes fly off the shelves around lunchtime, where customers enjoy a long list of sandwiches, soups and salads. Pattibakes also offers homemade bagels, including rosemary olive and jalapeno cheddar.

Wicks has noticed a slight dip in service since a Starbucks opened up across the street earlier this year, but she said she still sees many of the same loyal faces.

“We still have our customers,” she said.

Pattibakes is located at at 240 E. Highway 246 #109. You can order on her website at www.pattibakes.com and follow their social media pages for contests and giveaways. To order a holiday treat call 686-9582.

November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 33

Thanksgiving: What to make when you have vegetarian guests

by Anne Bunch Contributing Writer

Y

our family is coming over for Thanksgiving and bringing someone who is vegetarian. Of course you could say, “Just don’t eat the turkey and don’t put gravy on your potatoes,” but mashed potatoes without gravy would be a sin.

Here are two recipes from the New Frontiers archives that would make a great substitute that everyone will enjoy.

Vegetarian Gravy 1 large onion, diced small 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1 Tbl poultry seasoning 1 tsp rubbed sage ¼ cup olive oil 3 Tbl nutritional yeast ½ tsp pepper 2 quarts water 1/3 jar of Better Than Bouillon (no chicken base) ¾ cup unbleached flour In a saucepan, heat the olive oil. Add the onions and garlic and cook over low heat until the onions are caramelized. Stir often.

This takes about 10 minutes.

Add the poultry seasoning, sage, nutritional yeast, black pepper, water, bouillon and flour. Whisk to blend well and remove all flour lumps. Cook this mixture over low heat, while stirring continuously, until the gravy has thickened and reaches a rolling boil. Taste and adjust flavor to your liking.

This recipe will make 2 quarts and can be frozen.

Polenta-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms 4 large portobello mushrooms 3 Tbl Olive oil 1 cup polenta

BORROEL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31 confident in my approach.”

Borroel has plans to incorporate antibiotics into her program now that she feels much of the Lyme disease has already been wiped out as a result of alternative therapies, thus necessitating a shorter course of antibiotic treatment.

“It’s hard for someone who was working 60 hours a week to say, ‘Sorry guys, I have to go take a nap,’” Borroel acknowledged, “but rest is the most important piece of the puzzle.”

While Borroel’s struggle with Lyme and commitment to reviving her health has forced her to reduce her working to 10 hours a week, she recognizes the “silver lining” of her illness: moments of good health are becoming more frequent, and with them she’s been able to devote her energy toward growing her fineart photography business.

Inspired to “capture a moment rather than to create a moment” like many of those in the worlds of competitive portrait and event photography must do, Borroel remains loyal to

IT’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR

The only trainer in this gym is the grape

by Morgan Clendenen Contributing Writer

I Photo contributed These polenta-stuffed portobello mushrooms will be a favorite for both carnivores and vegetarians.

2 cups milk 2 cups water 1/3 lb butter 1 tsp salt ¾ cup shredded mozzarella ¾ cup shredded parmesan ½ cup shredded cheddar ½ cup marinara 8 basil basil leaves, sliced thin ¼ cup shredded parmesan and mozzarella, mixed Brush the mushrooms clean, remove the stems and scrape off the black gills, then brush lightly with olive oil and set them aside, cap-side-down, on a sprayed, parchment-lined baking sheet.

In a large saucepan, heat milk, water and butter and bring to a boil. Stream in the polenta while whisking, lower heat to medium, and continue whisking very often to prevent from clumping and sticking to the pot. Cook until polenta pulls away from the sides of the pot and is tender (should not be crunchy when tasting). If it’s still crunchy, add a little more milk and continue cooking until it’s absorbed.

Divide the polenta between the 4 mushroom caps and, using the back of a spoon, spread out to fill the mushroom cap entirely.

Then form a small well in the center of the polenta and fill with marinara. Top with the parmesan-mozzarella mix.

Bake mushrooms for 20 minutes. Serve with sliced basil on top.

Can be made the day ahead and re-heated. her affinity for the Western lifestyle in her art.

Her photography reflects a dreamy, slightly ethereal quality that captures moments between horse and rider in classic Central California landscapes.

Borroel officially debuted her prints as a vendor at Los Olivos’ annual “Day in the Country” street festival, and her work will be featured throughout November at the J. Ludlow wine tasting room, 2890 Grand Ave. in Los Olivos.

Delving further into the spirit of “taking the reins,” Borroel managed to get back in the saddle after she’d taken a break from riding to avoid the risks of a fall from another fainting episode. She broke into a smile as she relayed the story of finally getting on horseback again.

While the ride was an all too brief 20 minutes, she said, it remains a suggestion of encouragement. “After I got off my horse it was like, ‘Ok! I can do this.’”

To see or buy Borroel’s art, go to www. hannahborroel.com. To keep up with her journey to health, go to www.youcaring.com/ hannah-borroel-608028.

t’s harvest time! Pumpkin-spiced everything is everywhere. The grapes are ready to be beaten into submission and turned into our county’s liquid gold, that elixir we call wine. Yes, it’s grape harvesting time, the winemaker’s most important time of the year.

Anyone who has made wine knows that the rigors of harvest can be quite intense.

It’s anything but glamorous, and I often call it high-end ditch digging. Besides the long days, it is very physical. It rivals that of CrossFit, except I don’t know anyone who does CrossFit for 8 to 12 hours in a day.

Riding on a tractor for hours in the middle of the night when it’s optimal temperature for picking, dragging hoses, lifting barrels, and shoveling fermented grapes are just a few of the exercises in this gym — where the only trainer is the grape.

Now, I’m not trying to get any sympathy here. It is the one time of the year I eat what I want or, actually, anything that’s around.

I admit I’ve lived off corn nuts and beer for days during harvest. Or when I do have time for food, I look like a homeless person sitting at the bar at Industrial Eats, covered in dirt, sweat, grape debris and eating as if it were my last meal. But I don’t care, there are plenty of other walking-wounded winemakers

Photo Contributed Morgan Clendenen can be found any time of the day in the vineyard during grape harvest, sometimes living on corn nuts and beer.

doing the same.

I became a winemaker not only because of my love of wine but because I love food.

During harvest, besides looking for perfect ripeness, I’m always thinking about my next meal. My newest ritual is the “egg in a jar” along with a nitrogen-infused coffee at Bob’s Bread. It’s a perfect thing after watching the sun come up while standing in the middle of the vineyard. I get it to-go and try to beat the delivery truck to the winery and then, most of the time, eat it on my forklift.

It’s at that moment I realize my glamorous ditch-digging life is pretty good. What’s a little hard work when you’re making worldclass Santa Barbara County wine?

Also, what’s for lunch?

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34 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

STORE-BOUGHT VS FARM-FRESH

Let’s compare eggs

I

look out the back door and see my sweet little hens, pecking and scratching, chasing each other and enjoying a sunny day. I can’t help but think that these girls produce the best eggs in the world, or at least in my town.

They do, right? From the first day I tasted their eggs I could tell a difference compared to store-bought eggs, but what exactly is the flavor difference and are they actually better? I decided to do a little side-by-side taste and texture comparison to answer this question.

I cracked one store-bought conventional egg into a bowl and one of my hens’ fresh eggs, laid just the day before, into another.

Right away the difference is totally obvious. My hen’s egg yolk was brighter orange and stood very perky, like a happy peak with the white clinging very tightly to it. The conventional egg white was watery and spread quickly; its yolk was a pale yellow. I whipped them both up with a fork, and my hen’s eggs took more time to combine than the store-bought.

I quickly made a basic soft scramble and sat down to evaluate. They looked very similar, but the fresh egg looked a little fluffier, and it felt fluffier in my mouth. After I took a bite of each egg I really wanted to taste a huge difference, but I honestly didn’t.

Maybe if I had switched up my hens’ feed to include something pungent like garlic or citrus the flavor difference would be more apparent, but in general they both just tasted like eggs.

For good measure I cooked them sunny side up to get a better taste of the yolks, and I can add that my hens’ eggs were a bit creamier.

A side note about nutritional value: Hens that get to roam free to peck, scratch and naturally forage for bugs, greens and flowers produce eggs that are higher in omega-3 fatty acids, beta carotene and vitamins A, E and D. Their eggs are lower in

“bad” cholesterol and have less saturated fat.

If you care about how healthful your eggs are, farm-fresh is definitely the way to go.

In addition, it is no secret that conventional eggs are produced in

by Coreen Padilla mass quantity, and humane treatment of the hens that produce these eggs is a low priority. They do not get to roost, dust-bath or forage. The are stacked in cages on top of one another and they do not get to walk or spread their wings.

Besides being inhumane this treatment makes for a less sanitary environment, which increases the risks of salmonella to the hen and to your eggs.

My hens’ eggs are always going to be just better. They are my girls and I care for them, so mentally they are amazing, no question. I know what they eat and I know where they’ve been. Their eggs are also waaaay fresher than store-bought eggs, which are usually at least a week old but can be up to 30 days old.

When I need more than my hens can provide, I do head to the store and choose free-range organic eggs. That supports the better treatment of commercial hens, and I like knowing they are healthier for my family and me.

So, commercial or farm-fresh? In the end they taste the same but, as usual, there is more to what’s going onto your plate.

Santa Ynez Valley resident Coreen Padilla owns a catering business, Starlight Kitchen in Buellton, where she hosts pop-up catering events. Contact her at starlight kitchen.syv@gmail.com.

Photo By Raiza Giorgi The scarecrow at Birkholm’s Bakery features a play on the “Little Mermaid,” a famous story by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen.

Public urged to pick favorite scarecrows ny in Buellton.

Each of the Santa Ynez Valley towns holds news@santaynezvalleystar.com its own Scarecrow Fest and associated contest; the rules vary slightly from town to town, but he Santa Ynez Valley kicked off the all have the ultimate goal of appointing a “Best annual Santa Ynez Valley Scarecrow Scarecrow” to represent each town in the quest Fest on Oct. 7, with people encourfor the Valley-wide Harvest Cup trophy. aged to vote for their favorite entries.

More information about this year’s Santa The public is invited to judge and vote for Ynez Valley Scarecrow Fest is available at their favorites. The scarecrows, crafted by local www.syvscarecrows.com. Scarecrow seekers businesses, individuals and organizations in may also follow the Santa Ynez Valley ScareBallard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos and crow Fest happenings on Facebook, Twitter Solvang, will be showcased through Nov. 7. and Instagram, at facebook.com/SYVScareThe winning scarecrow from each town will crowFest, twitter.com/SYVscarecrows, and be eligible for the “2016 Harvest Cup: Best instagram.com/syvscarecrows. in the Valley” title and trophy, the winner of Scarecrow voters and visitors are encourwhich will be announced at a Nov. 16 ceremo- aged to use the hashtag #syvscarecrows.

by SYV Star Staff

T

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The Jack Skellington scarecrow at Tower Pizza in Solvang is sure to put a spook in your step.

November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 35

education

Senior captains named Car show revs up charities Homecoming royalty WHEELS & WINDMILLS

and HS auto programs

by Drew Esnard

Santa Ynez Valley Star

M

embers of the Wheels ’n’ Windmills Committee gathered on the evening of Oct. 13 to present donations to three high school auto departments, two local charities, and a national foundation with local involvement.

The evening was a conclusion to the group’s 12th annual Wheels ’n’ Windmills (WNW) Classic Car Show, a fundraising event featuring more than 300 classic cars and trucks held in Solvang each summer.

The day-long event draws thousands of car enthusiasts, and this year generated more than $33,000.

Bob Stokes, president of WNW, began the evening’s presentation with a remark about the genesis of the event.

“When we first started all of this in 1998, we had two criteria,” Stokes said.

“It was going to be a classic car show and all proceeds would be gifted to charity.” They raised $1,200 during that first event, he said, and enthusiastically added that “we’ve passed a milestone this year. After handing out these checks, we will have eclipsed $250,000 (in donations).”

Community members were present to accept WNW’s donations on behalf of their affiliated charities.

Pam Gnekow, executive director of the Buellton Senior Center, accepted a donation of $10,000 to benefit the Meals on Wheels program, which provides in-home

meal delivery to house-bound seniors.

Deanna Folgner-Diaz, executive director of Old Yeller Ranch Rescue, received $4,500 to aid the medical costs that accompany preparing rescued dogs for adoption.

Terry Foose, founder of the Progeria Research Foundation’s California Chapter, received a donation of $2,500 to further the foundation’s extraordinary strides in developing treatment and a cure for the rare, fatal genetic condition.

Stokes also awarded checks to three high school auto shop programs: $6,600 to Santa Ynez Valley Union High School; $6,000 to Santa Maria High School; and $4,000 to Lompoc High School.

“Most vocational programs are not subsidized, and many have fallen by the wayside,” Stokes said, adding “we support these high schools to ensure the auto programs stay intact.”

According to Rob Hill, instructor of the SYVUHS auto program, donations from WNW in recent years have indeed assisted SYVUHS’s “Pirate Garage.” He noted that donations from WNW have contributed to the purchase of tools, maintenance of the shop, and have also enabled some of his students to compete in the SkillsUSA National Championships.

Stokes’ final comment of the evening was an expression of gratitude for the efforts of all WNW’s 2016 benefitting charities, auto shop programs, and the members of the WNW Committee.

For more information on the event, visit www.wheelsnwindmills.com.

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Emily Carbajal is crowned queen and Gustavo Zurate is king

by SYV Star Staff

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

T

he Santa Ynez Valley Union High School football team checked off another win for the season as they won their Homecoming game, beating the Morro Bay Pirates 48-7. It was a celebration for sure for seniors Gustavo Zurate, the football team captain who was crowned Homecoming King, and cheerleading captain Emily Carbajal, who was crowned Homecoming Queen. Congratulations to the entire homecoming court of princesses Bronte Cintron, Nancy Duong, Kadyn Gianis, Lauren Morrison, Maddie Olsen, Brie Parker and Morgan Watts; and princes Noe Degollado, Fabian Camacho, Grant Davidson, Jeremy Davidson, Chris Hartman, Michael McCoy and AJ Slobig.

Photo by Daniel Dreifuss Santa Ynez Valley Union High School celebrated the crowning of this year’s Homecoming King Gustavo Zurate and Queen Emily Carbajal during halftime of the football game Oct. 7, when the Santa Ynez Pirates beat the Morro Bay Pirates 48-7.

Order Your Holiday Pie Thanksgiving Pick-Up Hours: Open Monday ~ Wednesday, November 21-23, 7:30am~2:30pm Customer Name: ________________________________ Phone:____________________________________ Email Address: __________________________________ Order Total: $ ______________________________

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Apple

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3563 Numancia St., Ste. 104 • Santa Ynez, CA 93460

(805)

688-4856

Open Tuesday-Saturday • 7:30am-2:30pm www.thebakers-table.com

36 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

GIRLS GOLF

Team’s strong season ends with top individual rankings

by Drew Esnard

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Santa Ynez Valley Star

S

anta Ynez Valley Union High School’s girls golf team ended a remarkable season by landing five players in the top 24 of the Los Padres League.

SYVUHS students Eva Hennessee, 17, Gracie Church, 15, Alex Sczudlo, 16, Caroline Clark, 17, and Shilah Lizor, 15, competed against other top players in the LPL Tournament, an 18-hole match hosted

by Cabrillo High School at Village Country Club on Oct. 18.

Gracie and Eva placed fifth and sixth, Photo contributed respectively, putting them both on the Los Coach Ashley Coelho is impressed with the surge of interest in the game after her team doubled in size since last year.

Padres All-League Team. bined 25 students on the junior varsity and ho credited much of the increase in talent “This is the best Santa Ynez has pervarsity teams. Many were new to the game to a team-building trip to Monterey last formed in league and overall in season as this year. spring and the players’ impressive commita team since 2011,” said the team’s coach, “It’s really cool to see the growth,” Coel- ment to practice two hours a day, four days Ashley Coehlo. ho said. “We’ve taken a program with kids a week throughout the summer.

The team saw unprecedented growth who’d never touched a club before “We’ve come a long way since I started in both involvement and the skill of the to a place of being in contention to win last year,” said Shilah, a sophomore. “As a players, she added. first.” team we’ve gotten so much closer, imThe number of girls on the team nearly doubled from the prior year, with a comFor those who had touched a club, Coel- proved a lot, and had a lot of fun.”

EDUCATION ROUNDUP

Los Olivos Elementary is Blue Ribbon School Los Olivos Elementary School is one of 279

public and 50 private schools to be named a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School, according to an announcement by U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King Jr. Schools are nominated for the award by their state Department of Education, and then complete a comprehensive application about school practices. Schools may apply for status

Please join us Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016 6 to 8 pm at Buellton Medical Center 195 W. Highway 246, Buellton, CA 93427

Deep Tissue Diva Co. Mobile Massage and Reiki Practitioner

Courtney Koprowicz (805) 232-8168 Buellton Medical Center {Healthcare for Everyone}

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Catherine Dalton (805) 736-1234

Wild Wood Door Factory, Inc. Turning your house into a home

Linda Houston (805) 693-1339

Rodan & Fields Skincare Jill Lucas Jill@llwine.com

(805) 331-9929

Yoga Teacher, Personal Trainer, Heart Centered Therapist Diane Curriden;

www.ValleyAlternativeHealing.com

Wellness Support Services 805 350-0810 Sharon A. Williamson RN Holistic Wellness Coach

(805) 245-8906

Helen Larsen Realty Helen Larsen CA Lic. # 00893031 (805) 964-1891 Do you know someone with memory loss?

FREE CLASSES on GRANNY CARDs Nina @ (805) 729-7426

Sollievo, Architecture & Design Daphne Romani, Architect www.sollievo.co

(805) 259-7462 Beautycounter

Beautiful Effective Products Made Safe

Tracy Losson (805) 720-8578

www.beautycounter.com/tracylosson

Confident Childbirth Birth Education & Breastfeeding Women’s Self-Care Book Club Support in SYV Lyn Dee Rankin, LCCE, CLE Barbara Hannelore www.WomensWayMoonCycles.com (805) 448-0136 www.lyndreerankin.com (805) 961-4693

as Exemplary High Performing, among the top schools in a state, or Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing, schools making the fastest progress in their state in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.

Superintendent and Principal Bridget Baublits and second-grade teacher Carrie Grupp will represent Los Olivos Elementary School at a two-day awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. For information about the National Blue Ribbon Schools program, visit http://nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov. For more information, call Los Olivos Elementary School at 805-688-4025.

ALEX SCZUDLO Alexandra “Alex” Sczudlo, 16, a senior at SYVUHS, led her teammates to a win over Morro Bay at the Alisal River Course Oct. 10, earning her first medalist position in a dual match.

She began playing golf her sophomore year. “Unlike other sports, golf is more than athletic ability,” Alex said. “It’s more engaging mentally. You really have to think about the stroke.”

Alex was recently admitted to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for next year to pursue global security and intelligence studies.

EVA HENNESSEE Eva Hennessee, 17, a senior at SYVUHS, says a friend convinced her to join the golf team in her sophomore year, despite no prior experience. In only two seasons she’s advanced quickly to become one of the top players.

She placed fifth individually at the Los Padres League Tournament Oct. 18, earning a place on the All-League Team.

“I love that it’s an individual game, but we still get to play as a team,” Eva said, “and it requires a lot of strategy. It’s a really good challenge.”

Eva plans to continue playing golf in an intramural league after she graduates.

partner to Solvang School in establishing vibrant music and arts education programs for students in kindergarten through eighth grade by bringing in talented teachers and providing the tools and instruments to learn.

Tickets are available at www.solvangsam.com and the Solvang School office, 565 Atterdag Road. The cost is $100 per person. To add to the evening, Hotel Corque is offering a discounted room for the night; call 688-8000 for rates.

SY quarterback sets touchdown record Santa Ynez High School quarterback Michael McCoy broke Frank Kelsey’s 55-year-old record for passing touchdowns in a single game at Homecoming on Oct. 7, with five passing touchdowns in the first half, Coach Josh McClurg said.

SYV Youth Rugby begins new season

Registration has opened for the Santa Ynez Valley Pirates Youth Rugby Club’s 2017 season.

Interested participants can register online at Kelsey & McCoy www.syrugby.com or attend an informational parent meeting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9. The meeting will be at Summerland Winery, 90 Easy St. in Buellton. Complimentary wine and appetizers will be provided.

Practices for all ages begin on Monday, The public is invited to support Solvang Arts Dec. 5, and the season officially begins Jan. 7 at the annual Tom Bobrink Tournament in and Music’s major fundraiser, the “Boots and Arroyo Grande. Practices will be held every Bling Ball,” from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5, Monday and Thursday from 6 - 7:30 p.m. at with cocktails, dinner and silent and live aucOak Valley School in Buellton. tions at Root 246, with music by LiveWire.

Girls and boys of all ages are encouraged to Each classroom at Solvang Elementary has give youth rugby a try. Teams are divided in age made a project or created a themed basket groups of U10, U12, U14, U16-U18. Anyone for the auction. Some of the items include a sports theme basket, arts and music basket, gift interested in coaching is also invited to join.

The Santa Ynez Valley Pirates Youth Rugby certificates to local business and restaurants, a Club is an organization for Valley youth of all dessert auction, and a wine grab.

Since 1996, SAM (Solvang Arts and Music, ages to learn the sport of rugby and to compete formerly known as SSEF) has been a valuable with other youth of the Central Coast.

Boots and Bling Ball to support SAM

library events

Here is a list of November events for kids and families at the Santa Ynez Valley Libraries. All of these events are free to the public, thanks to the Friends of the Library.

Weekly Events

Preschool Story Times: Mondays 11 a.m. at Buellton Library; Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. at Solvang Library Bringing your preschoolers to story time will help get them ready to read. Plus, it’s fun! Stay for a craft afterward and make a new friend.

Wiggly Story Time: Wednesdays 10:30 a.m., Solvang Library Short stories, songs, rhymes, and activities for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

Be ready to participate with your child, and spend some time being silly together.

Crafternoons: Fridays in Solvang for adults and students ages 9 and older Kids Crafternoons: Saturdays in Buellton for ages 5 to 11 Make something different every week.

We supply the materials for a crafty maker’s session, you bring your friends.

Manga Club: The SYV Manga Club meets every Wednesday from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. at Solvang Library. For young adults and teens in eighth grade or older who like to draw Manga-style art, and/or create stories. Materials provided.

Tail Waggin’ Tutors: Wednesdays 4:305:30 p.m., Buellton Library; Thursdays 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., Solvang Library.

Practice reading skills with a furry friend. A great way for young readers to practice: reading aloud to the kindest, least judgmental listeners around. Drop in for a 10-15 minute individual session with a “tutor.”

One-on-One Tutoring: Tuesdays 5:306:30 p.m. Buellton Library.

Using e-books and audiobooks on your mobile device, drop in for a free 20-minute session with volunteer Bethany C., and start accessing the library’s free online materials.

Special Events

Story Time guest Linda Reid, Monday, Nov. 7, 11 a.m. Buellton Library Meet this local author of “Hobo Finds a Home” and hear the true story of her very special rescue dog.

Nathalia: Bilingual Kids’ Music: Wednesday, Nov. 9; 10:30 a.m. Solvang Library, 3:30 p.m. Buellton Library Two concerts for children and their families by musician Nathalia, a native of Colombia, who writes and performs original bilingual songs that are fun, catchy, and educational for children and grown-ups alike. With a mix of sounds from rock to cumbia, jazz to reggaeton, Nathalia’s Nathalia songs will have the

November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 37

whole family singing and dancing along.

Investors’ Roundtable, Microsoft as a Study Stock: Saturday, Nov. 12, 3-4:30 p.m. Solvang Library Helping individual investors since 1995, the Investors’ Roundtable welcomes both novice and veteran investors to informal presentations and discussions.

Board Game Days

Thursday, Nov. 17, noon to 6 p.m. Solvang Library (Pokemon Trading Card battles start at 4 p.m.)

Friday Nov. 18, noon to 5 p.m. - Buellton Library Try out a variety of board games, old and new, for the whole family. Make a date and meet your friends.

Holiday Book and Craft Sale: Saturday, Nov. 19, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Solvang Library In addition to a huge selection of gently used and new books, this sale features fantastic craft items made by our talented volunteers, from hand-knitted and crocheted items to hand-painted silk scarves, lavender, whimsical book charms, handmade cards and prints. Come find a fabulous gift!

All proceeds benefit the volunteer program at Solvang Library. (This is our last book sale of the year.)

Stories by the Stagecoach: Saturday, Nov. 19, 2 - 3 p.m., Santa Ynez Library at the SY Historical Museum.

The library and the museum’s joint history story time, for children 7-12 and their families, continues with two classics

by Laura Ingalls Wilder: “Little House in the Big Woods” and “Farmer Boy” (set in Wisconsin, 1867, and New York, 1866).

Reserve a space by calling the museum at 805-688-7889.

Music Together: Wednesday, Nov. 30, 10:30 a.m., Solvang Library A music participation program for you and your baby, toddler or preschooler.

Diane Byington of Solvang Conservatory shares songs, instrument play, rhythm chants and movement in a relaxed, playful setting. Caregiver participation required.

Pre-registration guarantees a spot.

Holiday Closures

On Thursday and Friday, Nov. 24 and 25, all libraries will be closed for Thanksgiving. Buellton and Solvang will be open again on Saturday, Nov. 26. Los Olivos and Santa Ynez will be closed the entire holiday weekend.

Library Information

BUELLTON: 140 W. Highway 246, 688-3115, BuelltonLibrary@ santabarbara CA.gov LOS OLIVOS: Grange Hall, 2374 Alamo Pintado Ave. SOLVANG: 1745 Mission Drive, 688-4214, SolvangLibrary@santabarbaraCA.gov SANTA YNEZ: 3598 Sagunto St.

November 11 ~ 13, 2016 Friday 5:00-9:00 Preview Party Benefit Live Auction Viva Los Vaqueros Gala Dinner Saturday 9:00-5:00 Sunday 10:00-3:00 Vaquero Mercantile Booths New! Live Vaquero Skills Cattle Roping Demonstrations Pat & Deb Puckett Bruce Sandifer & Local Vaqueros Saturday 6:30-8:30 New Event!

“Cowboy Campfire” Fun for the Entire Family!

Poetry by Dan Hess, Western Music by Art Green Chile & Corn Bread

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY HISTORICAL MUSEUM 3596 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez

805 688~7889

www.santaynezmseum.org

38 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

november November Events - To submit an event for December email news@santaynezvalleystar.com.

For the online calendar www.visitsyv.com.

1 3

Winery Ordinance Board of Supervisors Hearing - 9 a.m. at the Santa Barbara County Betteravia Center -

Sergio Mendes and Brasil - 8 p.m. Legendary Brazilian musician who plays bossa nova crossed with jazz and funk performing at the Samala Showroom. Tickets are $25, $30 and $35. Log onto www.chumashcasino. com.

4

Let’s Get Candid About Calcium - Noon to 1 p.m. - Free nutrition education class by Clinical Dietician Stacey Bailey at the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital conference room. Call 694-2351 for more information.

Quick Draw - 4 - 6 p.m. Kick off reception at the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art - 1624 Elverhoy Way Solvang. Meet with some of the Quick Draw artists and enjoy the Museum’s current exhibition, “manna from heaven”. Robert Burridge, Jim McWilliams, and Bob Nichols – that have come together to share their broad views on this subject. www. elverhoj.org.

Bel Canto by Candlelight - 6:30 p.m. at Sunstone Winery. Following the reception, the candlelit La Cav will be filled with the exquisite voices of Eduardo Villa, a regular guest tenor at the Metropolitan Opera, baritone Brian Hotchkin, and soprano Nichole De-

chaine. Eduardo will sing La donna e mobile, Nessun Dorma, O sole mio, Granada, Maria, and duets with Nichole and Brian. Tickets are $125 per person and no tickets sold at the door. www.syvjc.org.

Art Class by Bettine Norton - 6:30 p.m. at Alma Rosa Winery at 181 Industrial Way C Buellton. Join Bettina to paint and create beautiful, western-style art at Alma Rosa, while sipping wine, on 8” x 11” canvases. Cost is $15 per person, email amanda@ almarosawinery.com to sign up.

DeAndre Simmons and Robert Cassidy - 7 p.m.

Part of the SYV Classical Music Series with world renowned musicians performing at St. Mark’s-inthe-Valley Episcopal Church located at 2901 Nojoqui Avenue in Los Olivos. Tickets are $20 and are sold at the door and at www.smitv.org. Doors open 30 minutes prior.

5

VETERAN’S DAY

$2 Tag Sale at ONE Consignment - 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Come explore all the great fall/winter clothing for women, maternity and children located at 105 E. Hwy 246 Suite 105 in Buellton.

Quick Draw - 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. - The Natural Art of Geology - For those that enjoy the artistic beauty of nature, join NatureTrack and Geologist Jan Dependahl for a Figueroa Mountain Field Trip. See the ocean floor exposed on Figueroa Mountain. Cost is $75 per person and includes a picnic lunch and wine.

Contact sue@naturetrack.org or call 886-2047.

events

Quick Draw - 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. - main event at Flag is Up Farms at 901 E. Hwy 246. Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Quick Draw, guests will enjoy watching over 20 featured Quick Draw artists complete an original work of art in 60-minutes! Afterward, the art will go home to the lucky bidders of the live auction! The event includes a Fine Art Walk, Food Vendors, Silent Auction, and live music provided by Joe Sha-Shaty (11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.) and local singer/ songwriter Stephanie Croff (2 - 3:30 p.m.). Free to the public but there is a $5 parking fee.

Quick Draw Artist Panel and Reception - 3 - 5 p.m. - Wildling Museum of Art and Nature 1511 - B Mission Drive - Free to the public. Exhibits include “Natural Materials: Fallen Trees, Local Artisans”, “Trees in Transition: The Photography of David Paul Bayles”, and “Selections from the Permanent Collection”.

Holiday Bazaar - 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 8th annual Buellton Bazaar featuring local artisans at the Buellton Rec Center. 688-1086 or barbarak@cityofbuellton. com.

Queen of Arts Show and Sale - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Two day celebration with maker-designed goos, music, food and fun - www.elverhoj.org or 686-1211 for more info.

Paint in the Vineyard at Saarloos & Sons - 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Are you looking for something unique to do in the Santa Barbara County Wine Country?

Why not join us at the scenic Saarloos + Sons Vineyard in Los Olivos to grab your glass and come paint!

Log onto www.gypsystudiosar.com for more info.

Military Canon Ball - 5 - 10:30 p.m. at the Solvang Veteran’s Memorial Building at 1745 Mission Drive in Solvang. Public invited for a gala evening to honor and show appreciation for Veteran’s. Tickets are $55 by check or cash or $57 at syvalletvets.org. Contact Al Salge at 693-9133.

The Contenders w/ Rick Brantley at Standing Sun - 7 p.m. - Tickets are $15 general admission and $20 reserved, for more information and tickets log onto www.standingsunwines.com. Located at 92 Second Street in Buellton.

6

Quick Draw Bruch - 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation 164 W. Hwy 246. RSVP to 688-4571 by Nov. 3. Cost is $20 per person.

Let Us Do the Cooking this Thanksgiving!

Join us for a festive four-course dinner $55 per person, $27 kids age 3 to 12* Book your reservation today!

Call 805.688.3121

*Tax & gratuity not included To view the menu, visit thelandsby.com

Jewelry Making at Gainey Vineyard - 10:30 a.m.

- 1:30 p.m. or 2 - 5 p.m. - Rachel Kett of Hammered Hoops is leading the event and enjoy a special tasting of Gainey Wines. $60 per person tickets at http://www.gaineyvineyard.com/events/upcoming-events.

8 11

ELECTION DAY

Holiday Eating Tips - Noon to 1 p.m. - Free nutrition education class by Clinical Dietician Stacey Bailey at the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital conference room. Call 694-2351 for more information.

Vaquero Show and Sale - Viva los Vaqueros Preview Party and Gala Diner - 5 p.m. - www.santaynezmuseum.org or 688-7889 for tickets.

12

Vaquero Show and Sale - 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Vaquero Show and Sale with roping demonstrations and Cowboy Campfire - www.santaynezmuseum.org or 688-7889 for tickets.

Queen of Arts Show and Sale - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

- Two day celebration with maker-designed goos, music, food and fun - www.elverhoj.org or 686-1211 for more info.

Paint in the Vineyard at Gainey Winery - 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Are you looking for something unique to do in the Santa Barbara County Wine Country?

Why not join us at the scenic Gainey Vineyard in Santa Ynez to grab your glass and paint! www. gypsystudiosart.com for more into.

Vino de Suenos - 3 - 6 p.m. - Spanish for “wine of dreams’, a label created in conjunction with People Helping People (PHP) to honor the contributions of

November 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 39 Events pages sponsored by

farm, ranch and vineyard workers. Art, and exclusive wine tastings with an auction and live music. Log onto www.vinodesuenos.com for tickets and info.

The Heathen Apostles at Standing Sun - 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 general admission and $15 reserved, for more information and tickets log onto www. standingsunwines.com. Located at 92 Second Street in Buellton.

13

26 EveryDay

Hot Roux Sort This Out Cellars - 7 p.m. - 1636 Copenhagen Drive Solvang. www.sortthisoutcellars.com

Creative Play at Knitfit - 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. located at 473 Atterdag Road in Solvang. Learn more at www.knitfit.com

Vaquero Show and Sale - 10 a.m.

- 3 p.m. Vaquero Show and Sale with roping demonstration and raffle drawing - www.santaynezmuseum.org or 688-7889 for tickets.

Exercise for Life - Weekdays except Wednesday’s from 9:15 - 10:15 with Barbara Owens at Church at the Crossroads 236 La Lata Dr. Buellton. Call 6888027.

14

Cachuma Lake Recreation - Wildlife cruises and boat rentals, fishing, nature walks and Nature Center.

Visit www.countyofsb.org/parks.

Astronaut Cpt. Scott Kelly speaking at the Granada Theater at 7:30 p.m. He will be talking about his time in space. Tickets are $35-55 per person or $15 for students with valid student ID. Call 893-3535 or log onto www.artsandlectures.ucsb.edu or granadasb.org.

15

Latino Farmers Conference - 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Sponsored by the USDA and NRCS this free conference is to create communication to all Spanish-speaking farmers and ranchers. At the Hyatt Regency Monterey. Register at www.latinofarmerconference. ncat.org.

17

Olivia Newton-John at the Chumash Casino - 8 p.m. Fourtime Grammy Award winner Olivia Newton-John is bringing her timeless charm to the Chumash Casino Resort’s Samala Showroom. Tickets are $55, $75, $95. Log onto www.chumashcasino.com for tickets.

18

Potluck - Noon to 1 p.m. - Free nutrition education potluck by Clinical Dietician Stacey Bailey at the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital conference room. Call 694-2351 for more information.

19

Turkey Bingo - 5 p.m. Doors open games begin at 6 p.m. The cost is 10 cents per game and there are 60 turkeys and other great prizes to win! At Solvang Veteran’s Memorial Hall 1745 Mission Drive in Solvang.

Clairmont Lavendar Farms - Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 2480 Roblar Ave Los Olivos. www. clairmontfarms.com.

Zaca Creek Golf Course - Perfect little 9-hole course! Dailey from sunrise to sunset. No tee times!

691-9272

25

Turkey Trot - 10 a.m. - Come work of Thanksgiving dinner with a 5K run/walk with the City of Solvang. $15 early registration (Nov.11) after is $20. Register at www.cityofsolvang.com.

Steve Ochoa at Sort This Out Cellars - 7 p.m. Local musician Steve Ochoa to bring his music stylings. 1636 Copenhagen Drive Solvang. www.sort thisoutcellars.com

Bridge from 1 - 5 p.m. at the Buellton Seniors Center Tiki Tuesdays at High Roller Tiki Lounge with all day happy hour at Sort This Out Cellars, 1636 Mission Drive in Solvang. Log onto sortthisoutcellars.com for more info!

Wednesdays

Yoga - 9:15 a.m. at the Solvang

Senior Center

Solvang Farmers Market - A non-profit founded in 1983 to provide California farmers with direct access at landmark locations to market their agricultural products directly to the local community. Located on First Street in Solvang from 2:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Science Experiments from 4 - 5 p.m. at Knitfit in Solvang. Cost is $25/person includes supplies.

Located at 473 Atterdag Road, call Debbie Carty at 693-4534 for more information.

Crafts at 1 p.m. at the Buellton Seniors Center

Thursdays

Easy Does it Chair Exercise - 10 a.m. at the Buellton Senior Center - work on balance and strength while seated. No RSVP needed.

Soiree Thursdays at Refugio Ranch - 5 - 7 p.m.

Featuring the best in live music, food pairings and wine by the glass. Located at 2990 Grand Ave in Los Olivos. www.refugioranch.com/events.

Fridays

Pilates - 10 a.m. at the Solvang Senior Center

Bingo - 1 - 3 p.m. at the Buellton Senior Center Live music - 8 - 11 p.m. at Copenhagen Sausage Garden 1660 Copenhagen Drive in Solvang. www. csg-solvang.com Firkin Friday at Figueroa Mountain Brew - 5 - 10 p.m. at the Buellton and Los Olivos Figueroa Mountain Brewery locations. For more info log onto figmtnbrew.com.

Mondays

Senior T’ai Chi and Arthritis Classes (Adult Coloring every other Monday) at the Solvang Senior Center. Call 688-1086.

4-H Meetings - Lucky Clover 4-H meets 1st Monday at 7p.m. at The Grange in Los Olivos heehaws@comcast.net/ Buellton 4-H meets 3rd Mondays at 7:30 pm at Buellton Senior Center buellton4h@yahoo.com.

craft food and drink

Tuesdays

Knitting, Computer Classes and Bridge/Poker at the Solvang Senior Center - call 688-1086.

Tuesday - Sunday 5pm – 9pm Friday & Saturday 5pm – 10pm

Silver Striders - Meet at 10 a.m. at the Buellton Seniors Center and walk around the community. In bad weather the group meets at the Buellton Rec Center and walks on treadmills. No RSVP needed and

Pet of the Month

Rock for Horses - 6 p.m. Happy Endings Animal Sanctuary is having it’s annual fundraiser at the SYV Marriott in Buellton to benefit the rescued horses who can now have bright futures! Dinner, dancing to the central coasts greatest classic rock bands with special guest stars! Tickets are $60. Call 448-7138 for tickets The Riverside Sort This Out Cellars - 7 p.m. 1636 Copenhagen Drive Solvang. www.sortthisoutcellars. com

water provided.

Gustav & Tsarina are two gorgeous purebred German Shepherds. These mature siblings are hoping to find a forever home together. They love to go for walks, romp and play and are both housebroken, but have not had much experience with cats.

If you would like to meet these spectacular creatures, if please call our office at (805) 735-6741.

SOCIAL HOUR

HOLIDAY MENUS

WEEKEND BRUNCH

Tuesday – Sunday 4pm – 6:30pm

Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Eve

Saturday & Sunday 10am – 2pm

420 Alisal Road, Downtown Solvang

805.686.8681

root-246.com

OpenTable

www.santaynezvalleystar.com Contact us news@santaynezvalleystar.com • ads@santaynezvalleystar.com

40 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H November 2016

$3,395,000 | 3169 Montecielo Dr, Santa Ynez | 4BD/4BA Brett Ellingsberg | 805.729.4334

$2,975,000 | 1043 Ladan Dr, Solvang | 4BD/5BA R. Freed/K. Clenet | 805.895.1799/805.705.5334

$2,475,000 | 2520 Santa Ynez St, Los Olivos | 3BD/3BA Nina Stormo | 805.729.4754

$1,250,000 | 1090 Alamo Pintado, Solvang | 9± acs (assr) Laura Drammer | 805.448.7500

$997,000 | 2538 Elk Grove Rd, Solvang | 3BD/3BA David & Marlene Macbeth | 805.689.2738

$995,000 | 1010 Oak Glen Rd, Santa Ynez | 3BD/3BA Sharon Currie | 805.448.2727

$850,000 | Sweeney Rd, Lompoc | 80± acs (assr) Calcagno & Hamilton | 805.886.5764

$779,000 | 365 Midten Hof, Solvang | 3BD/3BA David & Marlene Macbeth | 805.689.2738

$769,000 | 630 Lillebakke Ct, Solvang | 3BD/2BA Laura Drammer | 805.448.7500

$749,900 | 1523 Kronborg Dr, Solvang | 3BD/2BA Rhoda Johnson | 805.705.8707

$490,000 | 495 Avenue Of The Flags, Buellton | Commercial Lot Stormo/Currie | 805.729.4754/805.448.2727

$389,000 | 1999 Viborg Rd, Solvang | ½± acre (assr) R. Freed/K. Clenet | 805.895.1799/805.705.5334

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