Santa Ynez Valley Star • April 2, 2024

Wine, chili, and a lot of green seen in Buellton

Tenth version of city's annual Wine & Chili Festival was extra special, falling on St. Patrick's Day this year

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

“Wearing of the Green” is the title of an old Irish folk ballad, but this past St. Patrick's Day, it might as well have been the theme of the latest Buellton Wine & Chili Festival.

For the 10th time, the Buellton Chamber of Commerce and En Fuego Events was able to bring the event to town, and give vintners, brewers, chefs, and cooks a chance to show off their offering to the throngs. And, in 2024, the event fell on an already festive day — that of St. Patrick.

The May 17 date certainly wasn't lost on the many attendees to the festival, as most of them came decked out in the traditional Irish colors, with many adding fancy hats and emerald-green beads and necklaces.

Two people who took that to the extreme were the event's hosts: General Manager Jim Colvin and Brandon Monteleone of Flying Flags greeted people while wearing inflatable leprechaun costumes.

"With this falling on St. Patrick's

Day, we figured we'd go all out," Colvin said as he and Monteleone posed for pictures with some of the attendees. "We've had this festival here quite a few times and I think this is the best ever. It's just a lot of fun and we're having fun with it. And it's just a way to show people

how good our facility is for any kind event, whethers it's reunions or just huge get-togethers."

Amid all the festivities, Buellton Chamber Executive Director Kathy Vreeland said the event represented a successful partnership with the Chamber and Flying Flags

"This started in 2013, when we just had a wine event and eventually we had a cookout component with it, and then what you see now," she said. "The former GM of the park suggested we have it here, and this is our 10th year. We had to skip a year

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

INSIDE

Spotlight | Pg. 12

Local musician Alan Satchwell to take stage at Jazz & Olive Festival

News Briefs Pg. 2

• County Clerk certifies March 5 Primary Election

News Pg. 3

• Solvang City Council approves re-zoning of two lots to maintain local control

Education . . . . . . . . . . . . Pg. 10

• Buellton Union School District celebrates arrival of all-electric bus

Sports Pg. 11

• Pirates baseball squad gets first Sunset League victory

Arts & Nonprofit Pg. 17

• Valley author offers up a hauntingly delicious novel in 'LAKETOWN: a novel in stories'

Community . . . . . . . . . . . Pg. 18

• Alma Rosa Winery's Peace of Mind walk returning in May

Lifestyles . . . . . . . . . . . . Pg. 20

• HOLIDAY HISTORY: On his birthday, remember Thomas Jefferson's contributions to the U.S.

Food & Drink Pg. 21

• FARM STAND: Egg season and chaffles

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . Pg. 23

• Government meetings and events

Jim Colvin and Brandon Monteleone, both of the Flying Flags RV Park and Campground, pose in their St. Patrick's Day costumes during the Buellton Wine & Chili Festival on March 17 at Flying Flags. Photos by Mike Chaldu

County Clerk certifies March 5 Primary Election

Santa Barbara County Clerk/Registrar of Voters Joseph E. Holland announced Friday, March 22, that the results of the March 5 Primary Election have been certified.

According to the county's Election Summary, 41.97 percent of registered county voters turned out for the election, which featured the California Presidential Primary as well as local, state, and federal offices being contested.

In the Santa Ynez Valley, an important race was run for the county's District 3 seat on the Board of Supervisors, with incumbent Joan Hartmann winning re-election over two challengers, local financial analyst Frank Troise and Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne. Hartmann garnered 12,093 votes (58.83 percent), with Troise getting 5,229 votes (25.44 percent) and Osborne 3,147 (15.31 percent). This will be Hartmann's third term on the board.

The 3rd District county supervisor's seat was one of three being contested in the March 5 primary. In the 1st District, Challenger Roy Lee (12,745 votes, 50.96 percent) unseated Das Williams (12,180, 48.70 percent). In District 4, incumbent Bob Nelson (14,405 votes, 74.96 percent), easily beat challenger Krishna Flores (4,694 votes; 24.43 percent).

Other results from the March 5 election:

Presidential Primary Election Race (County Results)

Democratic Primary:

• Joe Biden — 88.28 percent (44,793)

Republican Party:

• Donald J. Trump — 75.14 percent (24,119)

• Nikki Haley — 20.63 percent (6,622)

OTHER NOTABLE RACES

• California US Senate (Full Term) — Adam Schiff finished with 39.14 percent of the vote with Steve Garvey finishing second at 29.42 percent. Schiff and Garvey will contend in a runoff election for the seat in the November General Election.

• Prop 1 Behavioral Health Services Measure — 52.26 percent voting no and 47.74 percent voting yes.

• California US House District 24 — Salud Carbajal won with 54.27 percent and Thomas Cole following with 36.60 percent.

• California State Senate District 21 — Monique S. Limon won with 63.16 percent with Elijah Mack 36.61 percent.

• California State Assembly District 37 — Gregg Hart won with 61.62 percent, with Sari Domingues following behind with 38.22 percent.

SOLVANG

Active shooter training seminar to be held in Solvang, Buellton this week

Visit The Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office have been holding a series of free informative Community Safety Seminars focusing on active shooter situations, with the final two coming this week in Solvang and Buellton.

One seminar will be held today, Tuesday, April 2, at Solvang Veterans Hall, 1745 Mission Drive. Another in Buellton will be held

Wednesday, April 3, at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott. Both run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Seminars have previosly been held in Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, and Los Alamos.

To register for the remaining seminars go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/community-safety-seminar-active-shooter-solvang-tickets-863271356867?aff=oddtdtcreator (for the April 2 seminar in Solvang) or https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/community-safety-seminar-active-shooter-buellton-tickets-863272741007?aff=oddtdtcreator (for the April 3 one in Buellton).

Tourism and Marketing Advisory Committee to meet first Wednesday of each month

The recently formed Tourism and Marketing Advisory Committee has determined it will meet monthly, on the first Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. in the Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang.

The committee members decided on the scheduling during their inaugural meeting on March 6. The committee members are Jason Scrymgeour, Debra Eagle, Max Hanberg, Brian McLaughlin, Susan Lee.

Events scheduled at Solvang Library

The Solvang Library has announced these upcoming events for April

Storytimes: Every Tuesday and Wednesday, 10:30 to 11 a.m.

Join us for stories, songs, and more! With nicer weather, storytime is being held outdoors on the patio.

ARF! Read to a Dog

Wednesday April 3, 4 to 5 p.m.

ARF is a literacy program that gives children the opportunity to improve reading skills in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. For ages 4 and up. Sign up in person on day of event, for a 10-minute session with a furry friend. Thank you to Santa Barbara Therapy Dogs!

Investors' Roundtable

Saturday, April 13, 3 to 4 p.m.

Helping individual investors since 1995, the Investors’ Roundtable welcomes both novice and veteran investors to informal presentations and discussions. Led by economist Dr. Ken Harwood, the meetings often look at a sample stock, and discuss current markets.

The group meets in-person and also offers a Zoom link for remote participation. Please REGISTER to receive the link.

Spring Book Sale! Saturday, April 27, through Saturday, May 4

The book sale will be in the library hallway during open hours throughout the week, and will close at 3 p.m. on May 4. We have an amazing array of cookbooks, garden and floral design books, puzzles, music, and DVDs, as well as lots of fiction and non-fiction for adults and children. Last, but not least, we want to give Solvang Library patrons a heads up that construction on the new Solvang Senior Center is about to start, up at the back of the 1745 Mission Drive property. There will not be any parking available in back, in the Sheriff's lot, where some folks are used to parking. Please use either the regular Vet's Hall lot, or street parking in front on Mission Drive.

Don't forget to check the library calendar at goletavalleylibrary.org for more events.

STAR NEWS

Solvang City Council approves re-zoning of two lots to maintain local control

Failure to re-zone would risk decertification of Housing Element, says city planning manager

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

In a decision that produced much debate among Solvang City Councilmembers and in public comment, the council voted to approve the re-zoning of two city lots to the higher-density Design Residential (DR-20) status during its Monday, March 25, meeting.

Item 5A on the meeting agenda was a Public Hearing for two resolutions: No. 24-1244 adopting a Mitigated Negative Declaration; No. 24-1245 Approving a General Plan Amendment for two existing parcels: Site B (APN 139-031-020) and Site D (APN 137-260-021) to a General Plan designation of High Density Residential.

It also involved Introduce by Title Only Ordinance No. 24-0372 Amending the official zoning map of APN 139- 31-020 and APN 137260-031, re-designating these properties as Design Residential (DR-20).

In the staff report, Solvang Planning Manager A. Rafael Castillo explained that the re-zoning need was necessitated by California's Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA), which determines the fair share of housing need for each county, city and town in California (commonly known as the “RHNA allocation”). Solvang is required to build

191 units under the city's 2023-2031 Housing Element, and must re-zone sites to allow for a shortfall of 46 under the assessment.

The two parcels to be potentially rezoned are Site B (1999 Viborg) at the corner of Viborg and Alamo Pintado roads, and Site D, an open space between Alamo Pintado Road and Glen Way, split by Juniper Avenue. Castillo said that Site D would have the capacity for 59 lower-income units, which would take care of the 46-unit shortfall under RHNA.

Castillo was quick to point out that Site C along Alamo Pintado Road, which has been the subject of much debate because the city has received a preliminary application for a development to be placed there under Builder's Remedy, is not part of this re-zoning. It will be part of the General Plan and Zoning Code update this summer, according to the staff report.

He was also quick to point out that there are no plans to develop on either lots B or D — the re-zoning is to put the city in compliance with the RHNA.

Castillo recommended approval of the resolutions, saying that failure to re-zone would put the Housing Element at risk of decertification, which would bring loss of land use description, grant funding eligibility, and additional Builder's Remedy applications.

"Have you all seen 'The Matrix'? Red pill, blue pill. Pick one," he said. "This is understandably difficult, but this is part of regaining our control back."

When the item was opened to council for questions, Mayor Pro Tem Dave Brown asked Castillo "Where's the urgency?" to re-zone the lots, to which Castillo replied that the city missed its Feb. 15 deadline to certify the Housing Element and the re-zoning was necessary to avoid more Builder's Remedy cases.

"If we don't move forward, Builder's Remedy takes away local control," Castillo said.

Mayor Mark Infanti wondered about the possibility of annexing a piece of land currently outside the

city limits and building on that to avoid having to re-zone the lots in question.

To that, City Counsel Chelsea O'Sullivan said sites B and D were already identified in the Housing Element, and Castillo said that going outside the city limits for that would require another Sphere of Influence study and be dependent on more motions.

Councilmember Robert Clarke then brought up another possible pitfall.

"The state, as we've witnessed over the last couple of years, can be very punitive," he said. "You don't mess with the State of California."

That brought Councilmember Claudia Orona to ask: "What does litigation with the state look like if you decide not to comply?"

To that, O'Sullivan answered, "It's costly, and it won't work. To call it an uphill climb would be an understatement."

Soon the floor was open to public comments, of which there were many. Some objected to the re-zoning of Site D, which many nearby residents considered a park or recreation area.

"I'm asking you not to approve the resolutions, specifically for site D," said Margaret Clow, who lives nearby. "Zoning from rec to design conflicts with the Housing Element. The open space serves the people who walk there. The park serves the entire city of Solvang."

Some, like Norman Skau, who lives on Juniper Street, were skeptical that there would be no development on the sites in question.

"I lived their for 54 years, I remember when they built the bridge to benefit Alisal Ranch, so congrats," he said. "I know there are plans someplace; build where it doesn't impact the neighborhood."

However, there were some who agreed with re-zoning the sites, including Lansing Duncan, a former Solvang planning commissioner.

"Development of sites B and D definitely stand to create potentially significant impacts to cultural resources, and especially tribal cultural resources, so mitigation is needed." Duncan said. "As someone who has seen how hard it was to get the Housing Element certified, I don't think you should risk getting it recertified."

Al Cortese also agreed with the re-zoning, saying, "Give the council, and the Planning Commission some control. Preventing more Builder’s Remedy is a win tonight.

After the item went back to council, Clarke reminded his fellow councilmembers and the audience why, in his view, they're being forced into this situation.

"California's been a one-party state for decades now," he said. "You keep electing the same people to Sacramento, and then when they make rules that affect us, we flip out. When are we going to wake up and make some changes?"

Eventually, Infanti moved to approve the re-zoning of the lots with Councilmember Elizabeth Orona seconding. Motion passed 4-1, with Clarke dissenting.

The next City Council meeting will be on Monday, April 8, at 6:30 p.m.

NEWS BRIEFS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

Artisan’s Market expanding to Santa Ynez and Los Olivos

Artisan’s Markets will be held in Solvang, Santa Ynez and Los Olivos every month.

A market in Solvang has been held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the fourth Saturday of every month in the parking lot of PARc PLACE, 1623 Mission Drive, Solvang. The next one will be held April 27.

Now, another Artisan's Market in Santa Ynez will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month starting April 6 in the parking lot of Farmacy — Santa Ynez, 3576 Madera St, Santa Ynez.

Another Artisan's Market in Los Olivos is held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month starting April 20 at Saarloos & Sons Park, 2971 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

The Artisan’s Markets feature a variety of kiosks manned by local artisans displaying their wares, including jewelry, clothing, gifts, soaps, crafts, candles, art and food. Farmers are also welcome. Vendors interested in participating in any of these Artisan’s Market locations can call Georgina Guttman at (505) 270-2332 or on Instagram @solvangartisansmarket.

HICAP to hold Zoom presentation on Medicare Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) will sponsor free virtual presentations for people interested in better understanding Medicare benefits. Understanding Medicare information will be presented on Tuesday, April 23, at 3 p.m.

“HICAP is offering the presentations to help beneficiaries and caregivers better understand this comprehensive health care program,” an-

nounced Julie Posada, HICAP program manager.

Topics will include a comprehensive introduction to Medicare including Medicare coverage, supplemental insurance, Part D prescription coverage, Medicare and employer group health plans and retiree health plan considerations.

HICAP offers free, unbiased Medicare information and counseling. HICAP does not sell, recommend, or endorse any specific insurance products. HICAP services are provided through the local Area Agency on Aging.

For more information on HICAP presentations contact HICAP at (805) 928-5663 or (805) 434-0222, hicap@centralcoastseniors.org or www.CentralCoastSeniors.org. Registration is required.

SANTA BaRBARA

Santa Barbara Zoo celebrates El Dia del Niño

Latin music and a kids talent show will be among the highlights of El Dia del Niño (Children's Day) on Sunday, April 7, at the Santa Barbara Zoo. Contributed Photo

One of the Santa Barbara Zoo's most popular celebrations, “El Dia del Niño” (Children’s

Day) is back on Sunday, April 7, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

El Dia del Niño celebrates the importance of children in our community. This festive day features Latin music, a children’s talent show, delicious food, and fun. Community partners will be on site as well.

El Dia del Niño is free with zoo admission; online reservations are required. Register for children’s talent show here. For more information about El Dia del Niño, please call (805) 962-5339 or visit www.sbzoo.org.

About the Santa Barbara Zoo

The Santa Barbara Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. for members and 9:30 a.m. for general admission until 5 p.m.; general admission is $25 for adults, $15 for children 2-12, and free for children under 2. Parking is $11. The Santa Barbara Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). AZA zoos are dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great visitor experience, and a better future for all living things. With more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation and is the public’s link to helping animals in their native habitats. Visit www.sbzoo.org.

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

Behavioral wellness issues free Narcan kits countywide

In a concerted effort to combat the rising toll of opioid overdoses and empower community health and safety, the County of Santa Barbara Department of Behavioral Wellness proudly continues the widespread distribution of Narcan (naloxone), a life-saving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.

With opioid-related fatalities continuing to challenge communities nationwide, and with the concern that presents with the upcoming unsanctioned Deltopia street festival in Isla

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Hartmann thanks voters after winning third term

Dear Editor,

I extend my deepest gratitude to voters of the 3rd District for electing me to serve a third term as your county supervisor. And I thank people throughout the county for your support — attending events, contributing financially, posting signs, writing letters, engaging with friends and neighbors on something as hot-buttoned as “politics,” and for knocking on doors on my behalf. I so appreciate those who engaged in heartfelt conversations on your doorsteps, sharing your thoughts for improving our community.

I humbly acknowledge the trust you have placed in me to represent your voices, hopes and concerns. Your willingness — Democrats, Republicans, and others — to entrust me with your votes is

Vista, the Behavioral Wellness Alcohol and Drug Division is partnering with the County Board of Supervisors to distribute 900 units of Narcan in Isla Vista prior to the event. Behavioral Wellness will also be participating in three Family Resource Fairs being offered countywide in April and will be providing Narcan kits to individuals and family members who attend.

Behavioral Wellness recognizes the critical need for proactive measures to prevent loss of life. Through this community distribution effort, the department aims to arm individuals, families, and the overall community with the necessary tools and knowledge to respond effectively to opioid overdoses, ultimately saving lives.

Narcan is a safe and effective medication that can reverse the effects of opioids, such as heroin, fentanyl, and prescription painkillers, by rapidly restoring normal breathing to individuals experiencing an overdose.

Behavioral Wellness has been making Narcan available to community members since 2015 with the aim of reducing the number of opioid-related deaths and provide a lifeline to those struggling with a substance use disorder.

To volunteer with the distribution of Narcan kits on April 2nd during Deltopia, please sign up here right click and enter the link into a Google browser.

Behavioral Wellness encourages all residents to take advantage of this valuable resource and participate in Narcan training sessions offered throughout the community. For more information on Narcan distribution and local resources please visit here.

To learn more about County of Santa Barbara Department of Behavioral Wellness, please visit countyofsb.org/behavioral-wellness. For assistance accessing Alcohol and Drug or Mental Health services, or if experiencing a behavioral health crisis, please call the 24/7 toll free Crisis Response and Services Access Line at (888) 868-1649.

a responsibility I do not take lightly.

Throughout my tenure, I have strived to advocate tirelessly for community values and priorities. Your continued support reinforces my commitment to serving you with dedication and integrity. Your involvement in the democratic process is a testament to the strength of our community and the power of working together to achieve shared goals.

I am deeply grateful for the privilege of serving as your representative. Thank you once again for placing your confidence in me.

I am truly honored to serve as your county supervisor.

Joan Hartmann

Santa Barbara County 3rd District Supervisor

SYV Community Outreach director meets with council to discuss Meals on Wheels funding issues

Traffic controls on south part of Avenue of Flags also discussed at Thursday meeting

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

Abusy Buellton City Council meeting was punctuated by a discussion with Santa Ynez Valley Community Outreach Executive Director Pam Gnekow about funding issues with the group's Meals on Wheels program, and also a proposal for marked crosswalks on Avenue of Flags on March 28.

Gnekow came to discuss the issues with City Council, being asked to do so per a request from the Feb. 22 City Council meeting.

She began the discussion by pointing out the support her program got from the city and how last year it more money from Buellton than it ever had before, but now the program has hit a funding crunch.

"For the last 48 years, we've been selfsupporting until the last five years," she said. "We lost funding and we had to increase the cost to our clients from $5 to $7, and those on scholarship meals, which used to cost nothing for our clients, we had to start charging them $3"

Gnekow told the council she lost 189 clients because of the increase.

"How did we get here? We got a $110,000 deficit," she said. "Meals of Wheels of America decided that urban programs needed the money more, and, of course, we're rural, so we didn't get that."

Gnekow said she met with some MOW national administrators and tried to make the case for her program and she said they told her to send them her grant request and they'd see what they could do.

"They decided not to grant funds,"

Gnekow said. "They only gave it to the urban areas. I had to lay off three employees."

Gnekow said since then, she's made deals with Giordano's, Cisco, and Foodbank of Santa Barbara.

"We buy surplus from them, now," she said. "That means we don't know exactly what we're getting from one time to the other, but we can use it for the meals."

The program has also benefited from an Adopt-a-Senior program where people can fund the meals for a particular senior.

"I've seen Lompoc Meals on Wheels close its doors, SLO also," Gnekow said. "I didn't want that to happen to us."

Councilmember Elysia Lewis asked Gnekow "in a perfect world, what would you need." Gnekow said after getting hit with the $110,000 deficit, they got $22,000 to knock it down to $88,000, but that would be just break even.

When Gnekow revealed that she got an appraisal on the group's thrift shop, valued

at $1.2 million and that she would have to sell the building if the program ever went under, Councilmember John Sanchez floated the idea of the city buying the thrift store building an creatively using that to

"We could buy it, and the monthly payments could go to fund the program," Sanchez said. "That way the city would have an asset, and with the payment, the program would have money coming in."

Mayor Dave King said that idea was "something we can agendize in a future

Ultimately, staff was directed to look into ideas and details on how the city can help fund the program.

"Look into it with her, get the numbers, and bring it back to us," King said.

The next item, Business Item 8, had to do with a proposed crosswalk across Avenue of Flags from Shadow Mountain Road to the Flying Flags RV Park and Campground.

Public Works Director Rose Hess introduced the item and said that the company Tetratech did a traffic study on the street, but determines that the spot did not meet any of the warrants or critera to recommend a marked crosswalk. Among the findings of the report was that there were no accidents at that spot, and the number of vehicles did not meet the range.

However, city staff recommended that some kind of traffic device be put there, with the possibility of a radar sign being mentioned most prominently.

Councilmember Hudson Hornick remarked that not only was the crosswalk unnecessary, but that a study that he read

found that crosswalks actually increased injuries and fatalities among pedestrians.

However, during public comment on the item, John Dorwin disagreed with the findings of the study and of the councilmembers. He cited the Complete Streets Act of 2008, state bill AB1358.

"I'd love to put your expert on trial and that report on trial because it misses so many facts and circumstances," Dorwin said. Among the discrepancies Dorwin cited were the fact that the presence of the Flying Flags Park and how it is the "gateway" to nearby Zaca Creek Golf Course, isn't even mentioned. He also claimed the Tetratech study was flawed in that it was conducted on weekdays and not the weekend when, he believed, vehicle and pedestrian traffic is heavier.

However, councilmembers were not swayed. King, who said he used to work law enforcement, echoed Hornick's view that crosswalk could actually be more dangerous.

"When there's a crosswalk, one report says it give the pedestrian a false sense of security, and he'll just step out there thinking the cars will stop," the mayor said. "Sometimes they don't."

Sanchez also questioned Dorwin's contention that weekend traffic studies would have been more accurate.

"One weekdays, people are going to and coming back from work, and that's pretty heavy traffic," he said. "I can't see how it would be heavier on the weekend."

Ultimately, it was decided that no traffic control be installed at that intersection.

The next Buellton City Council meeting will be April 11 at 6 p.m.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Buellton council members discuss funding issues for Meals on Wheels with Santa Ynez Valley Community Outreach Executive Director Pam Gnekow on Thursday night.Screenshot from YouTube

Progress being made on Highway 1 landslides

Caltrans estimates it will cost $88 million

to fix January 2023 'Paul's Slide'

By Neil Farrell

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — If read ers are planning a day trip to Monterey, it would be best to take Highway 101 for the immediate future. Progress continues to be made on three major landslides that have closed a long section of Hwy 1 through Big Sur for months, though recent rainstorms have hampered the work.

"Although a 12.1-mile closure of Highway 1 is in place due to these repairs, the vast majority of Highway 1 remains open for travelers," reads a March 12 news release from Caltrans District 5's Kevin Drabinski. "Highway 1 remains open from the Monterey/Carmel area to just south of the Es alen Institute, and from the Cambria/San Simeon area to just south of Limekiln State Park."

The rains brought temporary halts to the work but the crews "have been able to safeguard progress and return to production in the imme diate aftermath of wet weather," according to the release.

Each of the three major slides has a unique set of issues to deal with.

The Dolan Point Slide, located at Post Mile 29.5, on the northernmost slide, recently had some work done using scaling machines.

"Crews have continued to haul slide material away from the slide as spider excavators have worked their way down the slope," the Caltrans release said. "Crews have also been able to loos en debris material using equipment stationed in the roadway."

They hope to have this slide cleared in the next few weeks and then plan to install "a drapery system over the face of the slide," the release said, "to protect the highway from any rock fall in the future. The final installation of the drapery system will be completed once an assist helicopter has been scheduled. Repairs are estimated to be completed at the Dolan Point Slide by May 1."

this year, but the mountain is still moving.

"Rock scaling crews," Drabinski said, "brought down material from the slopes above the repair site in late February, as slide activity has continued to be a feature that has consistently accompanied these repairs."

Caltrans is using convoys from both sides of Paul's Slide to assist the residents stuck in between. "Daily convoys have continued to be scheduled through Paul’s Slide in the north and southbound direction," Drabinski said. "These convoys allow for local residents living north of Paul’s Slide to travel south through Paul’s Slide to secure supplies now that travel to the north is blocked by the Dolan Point and Regent’s Slides."

That drive-around is over a dirt roadway, so again, the weather plays a significant role. "Because passage through Paul’s Slide is by way of a dirt roadbed, convoys will continue as long as site conditions and weather make for safe travel," Drabinski said.

Caltrans had estimated fixing Paul's Slide, which occurred during January 2023's massive storms, would cost some $88 million.

The drapery system is expected to be similar to one installed on sections of Hwy 41 between Morro Bay and Atascadero, along sections of the roadway's "S" curves to keep large boulders from falling onto the roadway.

The Regents Slide, located at PM 27.8 is still being assessed after a survey was conducted using drones but there's still red tape to wade through.

"This data has been processed and is being used in the development of a final repair design," the news release said. "Parallel efforts are being made to secure necessary environmental clearances for the repair work to begin."

Caltrans expects the final repair designs to be done soon and once they get environmen-

tal approvals, then they plan to make estimates as to when that slide might be cleared and the roadway further opened to traffic.

Paul's Slide, which is located at PM 22 and is the largest and most troublesome of the three, has crews working around the clock. The estimated date for reopening is sometime in late spring of

Landslides on Hwy 1 have been limiting travel over the State's most scenic of highways since 2017, when heavy rains damaged a major road bridge near Julia Pfeiffer State Park, as well as causing the Mud Creek Slide closer to SLO County. Mud Creek was the largest landslide in State history.

An estimated 5 million vehicles a year travel Hwy 1 through Big Sur bringing visitors south to the North Coast and SLO County, as well as tourists going north through Big Sur and into Carmel and Monterey. Closing the highway for any extended length of time can have negative effects on tourism, especially with tour buses, to the North Coast of SLO County.

With a trio of slip outs blocking the way, Caltrans adjusted the temporary dead ends.

"The northern closure point on Highway 1 remains at Lime Creek [at PM 32.1]," the news release said. "The southern closure point remains at PM 20, [just south of Limekiln State Park], making for a 12.1-mile closure on the coast."

Readers can get road updates and information about closures via Dist. 5 social media sites, see: @CaltransD5 on X; on Facebook at: Caltrans Central Coast (District 5); and on Instagram at: Caltrans_D5. Information about road conditions statewide is also available online at quickmap.dot.ca.gov.

Work is progressing on the massive Paul's Slide, located at Post Mile 22 near Lucia. Photo Courtesy of Caltrans

A fix for the Regent Slide, shown here and located at PM 27.8, is still being designed by road engineers. Caltrans said the proposed final fix must also undergo environmental review by State agencies before they can do the required work. Photo Courtesy of Caltrans

Bill Sears 1947 - 2024

Bill Sears, longtime Buellton resident, succumbed to lung disease on January 29, 2024 after a long and difficult battle. Bill was born to Geraldine and Leo Sears in Kodiak, Alaska on October 14, 1947. His parents and younger brother, Dan, predeceased him. He is survived by his brother Neil, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bill loved the ocean and all outdoors, went surfing whenever he could and remembered Alaska and his travels there fondly. He attended Santa Ynez High School and UCSB, and was one of the best drywall installers in the valley along with his brother Dan. He was endlessly curious, wanting to delve into the why and how of all things. Bill was proud of his computer programming, always tweaking and checking his code. He was humble, friendly to all, and enjoyed getting to know whoever was fortunate enough to cross his path.

Bill worked at Tower Pizza for many years, and enjoyed it immensely. Everyone there was like family to him, and for that reason, Bill’s family would like to have a memorial at Tower Pizza on Friday, April 5 at 1:00 for pizza, conversation, and memories honoring our good friend, brother, cousin and uncle.

Please join us if you can, at 436 Alisal Road, Solvang.

Presents Presents

2024 marks a decade of SGMA regulations

The regulations were first passed during the 2012-2015 drought

By Christine Souza California Farm Bureau Federation

CALIFORNIA — California’s landmark 2014 Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, which requires local agencies in affected basins to develop and implement plans that identify a roadmap to protect groundwater for generations to come, turns 10 this year.

“If you think of the last 10 years when SGMA was first passed, a lot has happened,” said E. Joaquin Esquivel, chair of the California State Water Resources Control Board, during a webinar kicking off National Groundwater Awareness Week last week. “It was a historic drought that we had just experienced, and it was the impetus for the passage of SGMA.”

During the 2012-2015 drought, a lack of surface water and depleted groundwater supplies left some state residents without access to drinking water. This period brought agriculture — especially California’s citrus belt on the east side of the San Joaquin Valley — to a near halt. In Tulare County, blocks of citrus trees were abandoned or removed. For-sale signs and well-drilling rigs were common.

Tulare County farmer Zack Stuller recalls the summer of 2015, when he and area farmers had to make tough choices about what crops to irrigate and what to leave behind or remove.

“I know it was bad everywhere, but here in Tulare County, we were ground zero,” said Stuller, who farms citrus and custom-farms 3,000 acres of permanent crops. “We had to pick and choose. On the 100-acre ranch, I only had enough water to irrigate 30 acres.”

At that time, he said, the state’s surface water supply was depleted with low storage in reservoirs and little precipitation.

“Back then, I knew something needed to be done. We can’t bleed our valley dry,” he said. “SGMA is a huge change to California water law, but what it did is it made people aware.”

This Sept. 16 will mark 10 years since former Gov. Jerry Brown signed three pieces of legislation known collectively as SGMA. Under the 2014 law, local agencies must implement groundwater sustainability plans that demonstrate how they will balance challenged groundwater supplies within a 20-year timeframe. It could be a difficult adjustment for Califor-

of which have different SGMA requirements.

“It’s very, very complex,” Stuller said. “The rules are changing day by day, so I’m contemplating hiring a person just to work on this, because if you pump too much, you may get fined, so it is critical.”

Paul Gosselin, California Department of Water Resources deputy director of sustainable groundwater management, said “local agencies are on the ground in their communities, progressing towards a sustainable groundwater future for California, with support and guidance from DWR.” He said the milestones of the

regulation have been met, and the next step is -

ity basins have adopted plans, we’re making a transition towards basin stewardship. It is going to be our ongoing responsibility to assure thatpliance,” Gosselin said.

DWR approved plans for 71 basins. For the 13 basins rated as incomplete, the agency is working with agencies to address recommended corrective actions. In addition, DWR found that sufficient action has not been taken to address one or more deficiencies in the following six subbasins: Chowchilla, Delta-Mendota, Kaweah, Kern County, Tulare Lake and Tule.

DWR said plans must show how the basin will achieve long-term sustainability by limiting overdraft, land subsidence and impacts to drinking water. An inadequate determination

triggers state intervention and authorizes the state water board to step in to manage the basin. The state water board is set to consider designating the Tulare Lake subbasin as a probationary basin at its April 16 meeting.

Under SGMA, local agencies must implement near-term actions, such as expanding monitoring programs, reporting annually on groundwater conditions, implementing aquifer recharge projects and designing allocation programs.

San Joaquin County farmer Joe Valente, who is president of the North San Joaquin Water Conservation District, said the district plans to keep working to meet the goals of SGMA. The district has been recharging groundwater since 2018, when it flooded a vineyard in Acampo. This year, he said the district is taking advantage of flood flows for flood-managed aquifer recharge, or flood-MAR.

“Our district has a challenge, which is we have a junior water right, so we may have water six out of 10 years,” said Valente, a San Joaquin County vineyard manager. “Growers are seeing the value of groundwater recharge. We have been doing groundwater recharge all winter.”

The district has also taken advantage of grant funding through the State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program, or SWEEP.

“There’s always a line in the sand about this is my district or this is your district, but now we’re looking at it as our basin, so how can we work together?” Valente said. “We talked to Stockton East Water District and South San Joaquin Irrigation District, and both agreed to partner with us. We got about $5 million.”

The California Department of Food and Agriculture said it has paused the solicitation for SWEEP due to the state’s significant budget deficit.

As local agencies and the state transition to SGMA implementation, Alexandra Biering, senior policy advocate for the California Farm Bureau, said, “we’re starting to see people and organizations who are saying, ‘Maybe SGMA’s not working; maybe it needs to be changed.’”

“Some outside of the SGMA world are anxious to change the way the regulatory framework is implemented, but doing that is not going to be effective or help us to achieve sustainability any faster,” Biering said. “If you add new additional requirements to move the bar or change what locals are supposed to do midstream, it is going to make it a lot more challenging for people to achieve that sustainability benchmark.”

EDUCATION

Abby Snow named Santa Ynez Valley Elks Student of the Month for February

Successful Scholar Athlete plans to pursue a nursing degree at Chico State

By Pat Merritt Elks Scholarship Coordinator

The Santa Ynez Valley Elks, in collaboration with Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, are proud to honor Abby Snow as the February Elks Student of the Month.

Abby has successfully combined scholarship with her athletic ability. She has played four years of varsity basketball; this year she was co-captain, leading her team to win league championship! Well done, ladies!

Throughout her high school years she has taken both AP and Honors classes and maintained a high GPA. She was named Scholar Athlete her freshman,

junior and senior years. Along with her busy schedule, Abby has worked at local restaurants Chomps, Chomps Coffee

House and Longhorns.

Abby’s plans for the future include attending Chico State where she will pur -

sue a BA in nursing. We wish Abby a successful college career and a rewarding career in nursing!

Santa Ynez High senior Abby Snow accepts her $100 check from Santa Ynez Valley Elks Exalted Ruler Bonnie Rees (right) and Elks Scholarship Coordinator Pat Merritt for being named Student of the Month. Contributed Photo

Buellton Union School District celebrates arrival of all-electric bus

Superintendent says vehicle to be the first of many improvements for district's campuses

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

On Monday, March 25, Buellton Union School District bus driver

Miguel Garcia drove a new all-electric school bus from Jonata Middle School around the block and back on the vehicle's maiden voyage, with JMS students, and district and city officials.

The round-trip may have been a short one, but for BUSD officials, it represent the first step in a number of improvements for the district's campuses.

The whole ride was part of a ceremony to introduce the Blue Bird All Electric 80-passenger school bus to local media and the public, and it was bus that BUSD Superintendent Dr. Randal Haggard took great pride in.

"I want to celebrate the fact that this is a very big deal for a very small district and a very small community," Haggard said.

The bus came to the district thanks to recent grants and funding received by BUSD, and more is coming. A second wheelchair-accessible, all-electric bus is expected to arrive in late June or early July and be in full use by next fall, with the arrival of a smaller, electric van, and construction of charging station to come.

According to Haggard, one positive aspect of the new bus to drivers, riders, and nearby residents is the noise, or lack thereof, of the vehicle.

"You may have seen our older buses, the diesel exhaust, in the early morning and late afternoon," he said. "These are quiet, very efficient zero-emission vehicles. We're going to make a huge difference in this community for a very long time."

Haggard summed up his remarks by saying that working toward building more environmentally safe vehicles is a case of setting an example for the students in the district.

"One of the most important things about this project is that the kids are watching," he said. "And how we handle the environmental challenges and difficulties that we face with climate change, they're looking at us to see

what we are going to do."

After Haggard's remarks, the official cutting of the green ribbon draped across the bus door was done by JHS Class President Mateo Soleto and BUSD Board Member Elaine Alvarado, and pictures taken with the bus, the "maiden voyage" was taken with the students and many public dignitaries as passengers.

After departing the bus upon its return, many praised the ride and the new vehicle, including Buellton City Councilmember David Silva.

"[The ride was] great. I'm really excited," Silva said. "As someone who has seen and heard the previous bus around town, it's a huge improvement from a noise situation. I haven't ridden a bus in a long time and I was like 'Wow, this is a lot better than it used to be when I was a kid.'"

Silva also like the fact that the new bus had seatbelts.

"I don't think a lot of people even realize that seatbelts are in buses again."

"But, it's just nice to see this investment with our students, because it's needed and the fact is that it allows a greater sense of grid security and helps the district save money on things in between. This is a great purchase for them."

Buellton City Manager Scott Wolfe echoed Silva's feelings about the ride and the bus.

"The neighbors along the route should be very happy," Wolfe said. "With the trash trucks and the [older] buses, yeah, they come by early in the morning and they're loud enough to cause a disturbance. And we're not going to get that here, not with these buses."

After the ride, Haggard talked about

some of the projects being done for Buellton schools. After mentioning the upcoming second bus and charging station, the superintendent identified the other improvements needed in the district.

"It's an old campus; it's a 64-year-old campus," Haggard said about Jonata Middle School. "We have roofing and beams that need to be redone, and we're looking at playground upgrades at the (Oak Valley) elementary schools." The superintendent also mentioned electrical and plumbing issues that need to be addressed.

"A lot of this stuff isn't very interesting to a lot of people, but the one thing we need to work on is the restrooms at the middle school," Haggard said. "[The condition] is pretty said, and we're doing as much as we can to balance it with the architecture of the building."

Jonata Middle School students and bus driver Miguel Garcia (in Superman hoodie) pose with the Buellton Union School District's new all-electric bus before taking it on a short drive in a ceremony introducing the new vehicle on March 25. Photo by Mike Chaldu

Pirates baseball gets first Sunset League victory

SYHS softball routs Morro Bay for their first win of the season

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

The Santa Ynez High baseball team earned its first Sunset League win of the season on March 22, beating Morro Bay 8-3.

Tate Minus, pitched five innings of two-hit ball, with no earned runs, and four strikeouts. His season record is 3-0.

On the offensive side of the ball, Bradley Lood, who leads the team in hitting at .441, had no hits in this game, but did reach base four times (2 walks, 2 HBP) and came around to score each time (four runs) and had two steals. Dallas DeForest drove in two runs, and Jed Silva scored twice.

That win put the Pirates at .500 conference-wise, but then on Wednesday, March 27, they fell to host Mission Prep 12-3, with DeForest driving in two of SYHS's runs.

The Pirates now stand at 1-2 in the Sunset League (7-4 overall) pending a game last Friday, March 29, against Lompoc. Their next game is Friday, April 5, against Dos Pueblos.

Pirates

softball gets in the win column

The Santa Ynez High softball team has had a rough go of it to start the 2024 season, but the Lady Pirates got their first win of the season March 19 by routing visiting Morro Bay 25-4. SYHS scored 16 runs in the bottom of the second to earn the victory by run-rule.

Cassie Cota and Janeth Davalos hit home runs, while Rylan Agin had 4 RBI, and on the pitching side, Paige Franke had 4 strikeouts.

The Lady Pirates stand at 1-3 in the Ocean League (1-6 overall), pending a March 28 game at Santa Maria High

Pirates golf takes first in second Sunset League tourney

The Santa Ynez boys golf team competed in the second CCAA Sunset League boys golf tournament of the season March 18 at the Par 72 Alisal River Course. The medalist of the match was Mark Boatman of Paso Robles with a two-under-par 70.

Santa Ynez juniors Brayden Mlodzik and Cody Armenta tied for third place overall, each shooting a score of 77. Senior Marcelo Andrade was close behind with a score of 80. The Pirates won the tournament today with a score of 410.

The Pirates played a non-league boys golf match against Arroyo Grande March 27 on the par 72 Cypress Ridge golf course in Arroyo Grande. AG got the win 384398. Becker Brown of AG was the medalist of the match with a 71. The Pirates were led by Von Gordon (75) and Brayden Mlodzik (76).

Other golfers for Santa Ynez were Marcelo Andrade 80; Cody Armenta 80; Seb Perez 87; and Ernesto Suarez 95.

Santa Ynez beach volleyball sweeps Nipomo

The Lady Pirates beach volleyball team snapped a two-game losing streak March

22 by beating Nipomo 3-0 in a non-league match at Sunny Fields Park in Solvang.

Sadie Lishman/Helina Pecile (SY) defeated Hannah Pankratz/Stephanie Spicer (NP) 21-9, 21-19; Natalie Bailey/ Ella Miller (SY) defeated Raelynn Ortiz/ Alondra Grasbelum (NP) 15-21, 21-15, 15-2; and Kailyn Snekvik/ Haley Spry (SY) defeated Bailey Wane/Bella Ornohundro (NP) 21-18, 21-12

"Nipomo has a young well coached team," SYHS beach volleyball coach Melissa Rogers said. "They made some great adjustments against us, which made for some well fought games. Our team had some rough patches, but did a stellar job of lining out their games and finishing strong.”

SYHS followed that up with a 3-0 sweep of Valley Christian Academy (non-league) on March 25, before losing at Mission Prep 2-1 on March 27. The Lady Pirates stand

at 0-5 in the Mountain League, 6-9 overall.

St. Joseph edges Santa Ynez in boys tennis

The Santa Ynez boys tennis team lost a tight one, 5-4 to St. Joseph on March 27.

"Cooper Haws and Elias Thomas in lines 3 and 4 respectfully played outstanding again St. Joe today," said Pirates head coach Jennifer Rasmussen. "Cooper battled at the net to win in two sets, while Elias won a close tiebreaker in the second set to stay alive. He pulled off a huge win in the third-set tiebreaker to win the match."

Haws won his match 6-4, 7-5; while Thomas's scores were 2-6, 7-6 (9-7), 10-8. Others winners were Bryce Wilczak (6-2, 6-1) in No. 1 singles, and Wilczak/Cooper (8-0) in No. 1 doubles.

The Pirates will next play at Mission prep on April 9.

Santa Ynez High pitcher Tate Minus is shown pitching against Dunn earlier this season. Minus pitched five innings of two-hit ball March 22 to raise his record to 3-0 as the Pirates beat Morro Bay 8-3. Star file photo

Local musician to take stage at Jazz & Olive Festival SPOTLIGHT

Jazz trumpeter and pianist Alan Satchwell is the featured artist for the annual event in June

By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

Jazz trumpeter and pianist Alan Satchwell will be the featured artist at the annual Jazz & Olive Festival on June 8 in Los Olivos. He will be joined by the Alan Satchwell Quintet, which features David Alm on piano, Darrell Voss on drums, Dave Keif on bass, and Los Angeles recording artist Thom Rotella on guitar. Local featured guest will be singer Chanel Finch.

“I met Rich Nagler, president of the Los Olivos Rotary at Carhartt Winery where I was performing and he thought that it would be a good idea to have local musicians play at this year’s Jazz & Olive Festival," Satchwell said. "So, he asked if I would be interested in being the featured artist at the festival, rather than someone from Los Angeles as was previously the custom. There is so much musical talent here in the Valley. It is a great honor for me to be chosen as the featured artist for this event.”

Satchwell has been playing trumpet since the age of 8 and started writing songs at 16. He eventually acquired a digital audio workstation, created his own studio, and began to make records.

“My passion is making records,” said Satchwell. “It’s what I like to do more than anything else. I’ve always had a band project and recording studio going.

“I was raised in Los Angeles and at -

tended UCLA at 18 to study music, but all I wanted to do was record in my dorm room. When my classical professor found me recording commercial music, he yelled at me saying, ‘Don’t do that kind of music

Alan Satchwell performs at the South Pasadena Eclectic Music Festival. Photo by Kasper Tobias

around here!’ Commercial music was not his focus, it was classical music, period.”

Satchwell has had a long career in the music and acting industry.

“I first started performing when I was 13 with members of the Lawrence Welk Band and that’s when I knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my life,” said Satchwell.

“In the '80s I met a man who was the music director for 'Solid Gold,' a syndicated music television series at the time. We became friends so I got to go to the television studio to see the show and the recording studio. I was hired to be a background singer for 'Solid Gold.'”

After graduating from UCLA, Satchwell said he sang on a Dan Fogelberg record and the original "Tron" Disney movie and became a working Hollywood studio singer for three years. It wasn’t until the 1990s that he started doing trumpet studio work for cartoons and the show "Beverly Hills 90210."

“I started a gospel choir in Los Angeles in 1993 called ‘Heaven Bound Sound’ at the Sherman Oaks Presbyterian Church," Satchwell said. "That’s where I met my wife, Christi, who is also a singer. We will be celebrating our 28th wedding anniversary in August. I wrote all the music for that gospel choir and it was the best time of my life, changing people’s lives with love and God’s message in their lives. The group was

hired as a choir to do television shows and records and did an off-Broadway musical production ‘The Last Session’ in 1997.”

Satchwell pursued music as his career despite some family pushback.

“My father didn’t want me to be a musician, he didn’t think it would make me happy or that I’d be able to support a family,” he said. “He was a mechanical engineer. He gave in when I started working for the church. But I have to say that I got a lot of my musical talent from my mother.”

However, music wasn't Satchwell's only creative outlet.

“I’ve done a lot of acting as well, mostly in the Valley,” said Satchwell.

Some of his credits are, “The Music Man” and the lead role in “Captain Hook” with Arts Outreach; “Toad’s Hall” with Chris Bowman; “Enchanted April” directed by Polly Firestone-Walker; and he also worked on soap operas in Los Angeles.

Satchwell was featured last year at the Maui Relief Concert at Theaterfest, the Los Olivos Community Christmas Tree Lighting at Mattei’s Tavern, and on Arwen Lewis’ radio show.

“I didn’t pursue an acting career because the music just got too rewarding,” he said. His first CD was called “Jazz in the Vineyard” and was released in 2022. He recorded it at the studio he has at the Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church, where he has worked for the past 28 years

as a worship choir director and rock band director since 1997. He recently released his second jazz album with Martune Records in Hollywood, titled “Songs from the Vineyard,” which will be available at the Jazz & Olive Festival.

“I incorporate wine with jazz because I have my own vineyard and I know many people in the business,” said Satchwell. “Jazz and wine are a great pairing.”

Satchwell has done a good job establishing himself on the Central Coast, playing more than 60 times in local clubs and wineries. In his second CD, he used many of the local musicians he met while playing on the Central Coast.

“The musicians on ‘Songs from the Vineyard’ are all local: Austin Beede, Randy Tico, Matt McCarrin, and Rex Harte," Satchwell said. "It’s amazing the treasure trove of jazz musicians we have in the Valley, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo.”

The organizers of the Jazz & Olive Festival are happy to have Satchwell taking the stage at their event.

“We look forward to Alan Satchwell and his band playing at this year’s Jazz & Olive Festival. I have heard them play before and enjoyed them,” said Nagler. “They are local, play with great enthusiasm and have a large jazz repertoire for everyone to enjoy. We also look forward to seeing everyone. Join us for great food, wine, and fabulous music. It should be a fun afternoon for all

and bring your friends.”

Proceeds from the event go to support the Los Olivos Rotary’s projects and grants. For tickets to the Jazz & Olive Festival, visit losolivosrotary.org.

Local jazz trumpeter and pianist Alan Satchwell performs at the Solvang Festival Theater in 2023. Satchwell and his band will be the featured artist as this year's Jazz & Olive Festival in Los Olivos. Photo by Rex Harte

SBMM Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series highlights the majestic 'White Bears of the North'

Santa Barbara-based nature photographer Ralph Clevenger highlights species' connection to sea

Staff Report

Join Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) for its April Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series presentation of "White Bears of the North," featuring nature photographer Ralph Clevenger. The discussion will explore the habitats of two remarkable species of bears — polar bears and Kermode bears — highlighting their unique connection to the sea and emphasizing the fragility of the ecosystems upon which they are dependent.

The event will take place on Thursday, April 18, at 7 p.m. The cost is free for SBMM Navigators Circle members; $10 for all other SBMM members; and $20 for the general public. SBMM members will enjoy a pre-lecture reception from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m. Register for the event at bit. ly/43wTNkH

Clevenger's presentation serves as a complementary piece to his current SBMM exhibition, "Ice Bear," showcasing his breathtaking images and narrating his adventures photographing the bears in their natural habitats. Reflecting on his experiences, Clevenger said, "I've been fortunate to photograph wildlife around the world, and the polar bears of Hudson Bay and spirit bears of Western Canada stand out as favorites. I'm very humbled in the presence of these majestic animals."

Clevenger spent an eight-day trip with Frontiers North Adventures exploring the shores of Hudson Bay near Churchill, Manitoba, Canada. As temperatures drop and Hudson Bay begins to freeze, increasing numbers of bears move toward the coast and congregate along the shores of the bay, waiting until they can journey onto the ice and begin feeding again. Clevenger will discuss the important role

polar bears play in one of the harshest environments on earth, and what we might lose as the arctic warms.

Similarly, in the wilderness of the Great Bear Rainforest along British Columbia's western coast, Clevenger encountered Kermode bears, also known as spirit bears. Revered by the First Nation peoples, spirit bears serve as important figures in indigenous folklore, symbolizing a connection to the past. Traveling aboard a converted tugboat, Clevenger immersed himself in

the fjords and surrounding habitat, capturing not only spirit bears but also whales and eagles alike — witnessing firsthand the significant challenges these animals are facing as the climate changes around them.

The SBMM Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series is sponsored by Marie L. Morrisroe.

About the Speaker

Ralph Clevenger grew up on the coast of North Africa and began diving in the

waters of the Mediterranean Sea at the age of 7 with his father. In the 1960s, Clevenger was strongly influenced by JacquesYves Cousteau films on the underwater world and decided early on to become a marine biologist when he grew up. Clevenger eventually went on to study zoology and worked for the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in San Diego as a diver/ aquarist before attending Brooks Institute of Photography. He was a senior faculty member at Brooks Institute for 33 years, teaching courses in natural history and underwater photography, among other professional photo and video courses.

Based in Santa Barbara, Clevenger is now retired from his commercial photography business but still travels extensively sharing images via his website at ralphclevenger.com and on Instagram at instagram.com/ralphwildshot/. Today, much of his photography is dedicated to supporting environmental and social issues.

Clevenger has traveled throughout the world on assignments including Alaska, Australia, Antarctica, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Ireland, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, and many countries in Africa. His print and digital publication credits include Afar, Audubon, Backpacker, Islands, National Geographic, National Geographic Traveler, Nature’s Best, Oceans, Outside, Orion Nature Quarterly, Terre Sauvage , National Geographic Books, Smithsonian Books, Sierra Club Books, and many other national and international publications. He is the author of the book "Photographing Nature," published by Peachpit Press. Clevenger’s photography is exclusively represented by Tandem Stills & Motion.

About the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) is located at 113 Harbor Way, Ste 190, in Santa Barbara's Waterfront Center Building (formerly the Naval Reserve Building), opened its doors to the public in July 2000, with the unique mission to interpret the rich and diverse maritime history of the Santa Barbara Channel. To learn more, visit sbmm.org.

A spirit bear stands in a river in British Columbia. Photo by Ralph Clevenger.

Valley author offers up a hauntingly delicious novel in 'LAKETOWN: a novel in stories'

Accomplished screenwriter

Gerald DiPego comes out with fourth book, inspired by Illinois town where he grew up

By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

Author and screenwriter Gerald DiPego has released his fourth novel, “LAKETOWN: a novel in stories,” a collection of four fictional stories that take place in the rural Illinois lake town in which DiPego grew up in the 1950s. In these interconnecting stories, residents of the town “move through deep love, loneliness, great joy and the mystical, as they discover the truths that linger just below the surface of their everyday lives.”

“It is a work of love for me that began years ago, about ordinary people who confront the extraordinary,” said DiPego, who now lives and writes in the Santa Ynez Valley. “I had invented several fictional stories in 2008 that all took place in the town where I came of age in the 1950s, and created stage readings of these tales with local actors. The stories were very meaningful to me, and I found I wanted to give each one the deeper and fuller treatment given by the novel form.”

Each of the main characters in "LAKETOWN" is on their particular journey: a farming couple who want to find their way back to each other; a young newspaperman who needs to solve a mystery; a young girl who needs to find forgiveness; an aging, lonesome, sign painter who searches to find a human connection; and a man who comes back to the town to reconcile his past. Each of these needs is distinctive, and their hauntingly delicious journeys will forever alter their lives. The reader travels with them and finds their

own emotions entangled with each character’s experience, learning about themselves as well.

DiPego has been writing since he was a child. Books and movies were his inspiration to become a writer.

“Some of my earliest memories are the books I read and the films I saw,” said DiPego. “I was so thrilled by these fictional stories, and I remember a time when I was 12 and began to wonder: Could I do this? Could I make a story? The very first stories, of wilderness and war and conflict, I took to school and read them aloud to my closest buddies. They were a good audience.”

DiPego’s three previous novels are titled “Cheevy,” “Keeper of the City,” and “With a Vengeance.”

“This is my fourth novel. The three previous works were published in the '70s through the '90s by New York publishing houses,” DiPego said. “After that, I wrote solely for film, scripts that were produced through the years, until I left the movie business in 2013. This new book I wanted to publish on my own and enjoy that experience.”

DiPego’s extensive Hollywood screenwriting career includes, but is not limited to, films such as "Phenomenon," "Message in a Bottle," "Sharky’s Machine," "The Forgotten," "Angel Eyes," "Instinct," and "Words and Pictures," his favorite to date, he says. His stage plays and films for television include "154 and Paradise," "I Heard the Owl Call My Name," and "A Family Upside Down."

Along with his four novels, he has written a nonfiction guide for aspiring writers titled “Write! Find the Truth in Your Fiction” and has held classes for writers in the Santa Ynez Valley.

“I feel so lucky that my work is my joy and the writing of fiction has been my sole endeavor since my 30s,” said DiPego.

DiPego will be holding a book signing at The Book Loft tentatively set for Sunday, May 26, from noon to 3 p.m. The Book Loft is at 1680 Mission Drive, Solvang.

“LAKETOWN: a novel in stories” is available in paperback and e-book formats, and can be ordered from Amazon and other online retailers, or ordered from local bookstores. For more information, visit www.geralddipego.com

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(Left photo) Santa Ynez Valley author and Hollywood screenwriter Gerald DiPego has recently released "LAKETOWN: a novel in stories," a collection of interconnecting fictional short stories. (Right photo) Gerald DiPego's book "LAKETOWN: a novel in stories" is described by the author "as a work of love for me that began years ago, about ordinary people who confront the extraordinary.” Contributed Photos

Legendary Johnny Mathis to perform at the Chumash Casino Resort

Singer known for romantic ballads brings his 'Voice of Romance Tour' to the Santa Ynez Valley on April 5

Staff Report

Legendary and beloved Grammy Hall of Fame inductee Johnny Mathis is bringing his “The Voice of Romance Tour” to the Chumash Casino Resort’s Samala Showroom at 8 p.m., Friday, April 5. Tickets for the show are $69, $79, $89, $99, and $109.

Best known for his romantic ballads, Mathis’ eclectic sound is a compilation of jazz, traditional pop, Brazilian music, Spanish music, soul, soft rock, and R&B. Over the past 60 years, Mathis has sold more than 350 million records worldwide, with several dozens of those albums achieving gold or platinum status. His hits “Chances Are,” “Misty” and “It’s Not for Me to Say” have all been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

career. Mathis’ No. 1 hits include “Chances Are” in 1957 and “Too Much, Too Little, Too Late,” a duet with Deniece Williams in 1978. The duet’s success prompted Mathis to record multiple duets over the following years. He recorded with artists such as Natalie Cole, Gladys Knight, Jane Olivor, Stephanie Lawrence, and Nana Mouskouri.

In 2003, Mathis was awarded a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He was later inducted into America’s Pop Music Hall of Fame (2013) and the Great American Songbook Hall of Fame (2014).

Each year brings Mathis more and more success and his passion to create music will never fade. You don’t want to miss an opportunity to see this legendary performer when he takes the stage in one of the most popular music venues in Santa Barbara County.

on the romantic side of jazz and pop music standards, achieving success among the adult contemporary audience. In 1958, Mathis obtained tremendous popularity with his album

most popular albums of all time, spending an unprecedented 490 consecutive weeks (nearly 10 years) on the Billboard Top Albums chart. Mathis’ career continued to thrive, obtaining

Located on Highway 246 in Santa Ynez, the Chumash Casino Resort is an age 21-andolder venue. Tickets for all events are available at The CLUB at Chumash or online at

Johnny Mathis, who is performing at the Chumash Casino Resort on April 5, won a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003, and is a member of America’s Pop Music Hall of Fame (2013) and the Great American Songbook Hall of Fame (2014). Contributed Photo

Alma Rosa Winery's Peace of Mind walk returning in May

Winery proprietors Bob and Barb Zorich will be matching individual donations dollarfor-dollar, up to $35,000

Staff Report

Debra Eagle, general manager of Alma Rosa Winery, has announced that the winery’s fifth annual Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction fundraising walk will return to the Alma Rosa estate on Saturday, May 18, at 9 a.m. Registration to participate ($55/person) is now open and will run through Friday, May 17.

To sign up, donate or start a fundraising campaign for the upcoming walk, visit runsignup.com/Race/CA/Buellton/ PeaceofMind10000StepsintheRightDirection for more information. All proceeds from the event, including 100 percent of the registration fee, will benefit both One Mind and Mental Wellness Center of Santa Barbara.

The 10,000-step, or approximately 4.5-mile walk, will begin at the entrance of Alma Rosa’s 628-acre estate property and traverse across the hillside vineyards located off Santa Rosa Road in Buellton. Registered participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine or other non-alcoholic refreshments at the top of the Caracol and Attente blocks, while taking in the sweeping hilltop views.

Following the walk, the winery will host an intimate reception with current releases from Alma Rosa and additional winery partners, including The Hilt. Additional refreshments and snacks will be provided by sponsors including Leisure Project, Kate’s Real Food, and Pressed Juicery.

In addition to the reception, tickets to attend a private luncheon held at Alma Rosa’s historic

Ranch House will be available for purchase on the website listed above. This lunch will be catered by Full of Life Flatbread from Los Alamos.

“With Peace of Mind returning for its fifth year, we are excited to welcome guests back to Alma Rosa estate to participate in this year’s walk,” said Eagle. “This year we have decided to move our annual walk to May in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, and we’ll also be expanding our winery partners for the post-walk wine tasting. We are proud to continue our commitment to supporting One Mind and Mental Wellness Center and hope to inspire more people to join us this year in supporting the critical work of these organizations.”

The Peace of Mind fundraising walk was launched in 2020 by Alma Rosa proprietors Bob and Barb Zorich to support mental health community services, as well as fund research on the causes, treatment, and potential cures for anxiety and depression. Over the last four years, the winery has raised over $745,000 for these two organizations. To continue to amplify the efforts of the event, the Zorichs will be matching individual donations dollarfor-dollar, up to $35,000 to both One Mind and Mental Wellness Center in Santa Barbara. With a hope to garner greater community support and funds raised, the Zorichs will also be matching corporate sponsorships up to an additional $25,000, and are grateful to have already received a generous donation from

Specialty Construction, Inc.

The Zorichs have a long history of supporting mental health-related causes, Bob currently is an emeritus board member of the Hope and Healing Center & Institute and previously served on the board of the WorkFaith Connection of Houston. The Zorichs are also supporters of the Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute (NRI) at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation in New York City, and the Kingdom Giving Fund in Colorado.

For more information about Alma Rosa’s commitment to mental health awareness and support, visit: almarosawinery.com/about/ community-commitment/.

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Participants walk through the Alma Rosa Winery Estate in a past Peace of Mind walk. The fifth annual Peace of Mind walk benefiting mental health treatment will take place at the winery on Saturday, May 18. Contributed Photo

GOOD MEDICINE

By Dr. Hyun K. Lee

Western medicine defines Crohn’s disease as an inflammatory ailment that affects the gastrointestinal tract. Its main symptoms are abdominal pain and diarrhea although it can often cause skin problems and slow growth and maturation in children.

Western doctors usually prescribe longterm use of medications that suppress the immune system as well as antibiotics and steroids; all of which may or may not

work, but will definitely populate your system with needless toxins.

Oriental medicine doesn’t define a group of symptoms by one name, but instead looks to see where the source of complaints come from. In the instance of Crohn’s disease, it is a lack of ground energy caused by weakened digestive organs.

Ground energy comes from intake; it includes grains, vegetables, fruit, fish, and meats. When your digestive tract is weak, it cannot take the usual amount of nutrients out of these foods as it did when you were healthier. Without nutrients, your organs don’t receive all they need to maintain their strength and balance.

Let’s take a look at what happens inside the body: When you eat, food travels into your stomach, which more or less “cooks” the food and breaks it down in preparation for the small intestine. In the small intestine are arteries and veins that suck out the liquid from that food. In an ideal situation, all of the liquid will be removed

by the small intestine, but in a person with Crohn’s disease, it is not. The small intestine needs to function at a certain temperature in order for it to do its job correctly. It acts as a factory for fermentation, which of course, requires the right parameters to get the job done. If it falls short, the rest of the process does, too.

In this case, much liquid is left in the food, which then travels to the large intestine and eliminates itself in the form of diarrhea that is full of wasted nutrients. When this happens, the balance of bacteria is disrupted in the large intestine; good bacteria is no longer being populated, while bad bacteria is thriving. This damages the lining, which is where pain and the presence of blood in the stool originates.

With this lack of nutrients come other complaints that begin with fatigue and decreased growth and sexual maturity in children. If prolonged, the other organs become weakened and circulation slows,

which inhibits the elimination of toxins. This leads to problems with skin, eye dryness and infection, arthritis, and central nervous issues that usually result in fever.

Acupuncture, constitutional food and herbs, and moxibustion treatments help restore the proper temperature to the small intestines as well as assist your body in repopulating the good bacteria in your digestion tract. With these things back in order, your organs can start to rebuild their strength and balance themselves once more. Crohn’s Disease sufferers usually see a dramatic change within three months and a complete elimination in about six to seven months. Though it takes a little bit of time, it is always better to naturally eliminate the root problem rather than contribute to it.

Dr. Lee’s office is located at 175 McMurray Road, Suite G, Buellton. The clinic is held every Wednesday only. Dr. Lee also has an office in Los Angeles. To make an appointment in the Buellton office, call 805-693-5162.

On his birthday, remember Thomas Jefferson's contributions to the

U.S.

By John Copeland Contributing Writer

April 13 is not a holiday; nonetheless, it is a special day. It is the birthday of Thomas Jefferson, one of our country’s founding fathers.

Tom was born on Saturday, April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia. Freckled, sandy-haired, rather tall and shy, Tom was never comfortable as a public speaker. Instead, he expressed his eloquence through his pen. Serving in both the Virginia House of Burgesses and the Continental Congress, Tom contributed his written words to the American cause. The Continental Congress appointed Tom, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston to draft a declaration of independence. His fellow committee members delegated Tom the task of writing the document.

When Jefferson devised the Declaration of Independence; in the first part, he wrote that all men have rights. These included “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” He wrote that the colonies were no longer bound to England and that governments should derive their power from the people, not a king.

With its soaring rhetoric about all men being “created equal,” the Declaration of Independence gave a powerful voice to the values behind the American Revolution. What isn’t widely known, however, is that Jefferson’s draft of the declaration included a passage that condemned slavery as one of the many evils foisted upon the colonies by the British crown. The passage was cut from the final wording by the Continental Congress.

One thing that many Americans do not realize is that the Declaration of Independence became important to other nations. Our founding fathers’ bravery made America a role model for the world.

After America’s independence, Tom succeeded Benjamin Franklin as U.S. minister to France. Jefferson’s posting meant he could not attend the Constitutional Convention,

but that didn’t keep him from advocating for including a bill of rights and presidential term limits.

He returned to America in 1789 and accepted an appointment from President George Washington to become our nation’s first secretary of state. In the presidential election of 1796, Jefferson was a reluctant candidate and ran against John Adams. He received the second highest amount of votes, which according to the law at the time, made him vice president.

Jefferson ran against Adams again in 1800. However, when the electoral votes were counted, Thomas defeated John Adams. However, the election caused an uproar because the ballot did not distinguish between the presidential and vice-presidential candidates. Jefferson received the same number of electoral votes as his running mate Aaron Burr.

The House of Representatives broke the tie voting Jefferson into office. In order to avoid this in the future, Congress proposed the Twelfth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which required separate voting for president and vice president. The amendment was ratified in 1804.

Jefferson had the honor of the first presidential inauguration held in Washington, D.C. Instead of riding in a carriage, Jefferson broke with tradition and walked to and from the ceremony.

As president, Jefferson slashed Army and Navy budgets; eliminated the tax on whiskey, which was very unpopular on the western

frontier; and reduced the national debt by a third. He also sent a naval squadron to quell the Barbary pirates, who were harassing American maritime commerce in the Mediterranean.

One of the most significant achievements of Jefferson’s first administration was the purchase of the Louisiana Territory from France for $15 million. At more than 820,000 square miles, the acquisition effectively doubled the size of the United States. Jefferson commissioned Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to explore the uncharted land all the way to the Pacific Ocean. The expedition provided valuable information about the geography, American Indian tribes, and animal and plant life of the western part of the continent.

In 1804, Jefferson was re-elected president. During his second term, Jefferson tried to keep America out of Europe’s Napoleonic Wars. However, Great Britain, desperate to keep its naval ships crewed, began stopping American ships and seizing crewmen. Despite Jefferson’s attempts to maintain neutrality, the United States ended up going to war against Britain in 1812.

Jefferson chose not to run for a third term in 1808. He retired from politics to his home Monticello, in Virginia. In the final 17 years of his life, Jefferson's major accomplishment was founding the University of Virginia. The university was the last of three contributions by which Jefferson wished to be remembered: freedom from Britain, freedom of conscience, and freedom maintained through education.

In 1815, Jefferson sold his 6,700-volume

personal library to Congress to replace books lost during the War of 1812, when the British burned the Capitol. Jefferson's books became the foundation of the Library of Congress.

Jefferson died at age 83 at Monticello on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Coincidentally, John Adams, Jefferson’s friend, former rival, and fellow signer of the Declaration of Independence, died the same day. Jefferson was buried at Monticello. However, due to the significant debt the former president had accumulated during his life, his mansion, furnishing, and slaves were sold at auction following his death. Monticello was eventually acquired by a nonprofit organization, which opened it to the public in 1954.

Tom’s memory has been tarnished some in recent years, as a result of the fact he had a relationship with one of the slave women of his household, after the passing of his wife. But, we need to keep a perspective on what happens in folks' private lives and not let them overshadow the grand accomplishments in an individual’s life. All the good and bad in our lives are the things that make us human, even our leaders past and present — even in ourselves.

I do think it is too bad, that as a nation we have forgotten one of Jefferson’s key beliefs about our country:

“The maxim of buying nothing without the money in our pockets to pay for it would make of our country one of the happiest on Earth.”

FOOD & DRINK Egg season and chaffles

By BeeWench Farm

It’s that time of year when all the chickens kick it into overdrive on egg production.

It’s exciting after having very few over the winter, and it quickly becomes overwhelming as you try every recipe that promises to use a ton of eggs so your family doesn’t get tired of eating them.

The reason eggs are seasonal is because a chicken’s laying is dependent on daylight hours. As the days get shorter in the fall and winter, the chickens pause egg production to save their nutrient stores to get through cold winter weather. As the day gets longer in the spring, they ramp up their egg production because this signals the best time to sit on a nest of eggs that will hatch when the weather is nicer and the chicks have a better chance of surviving.

Spring is also the time you will notice those beautiful golden yolks in the pastureraised chicken eggs. The deeper yellow color in the yolk comes from the chicken’s diet, and it becomes much darker from diets rich in Omega-3s. Green grass is everywhere and

is now the major contributor to Omega-3s in egg yolks. Even if the chickens are confined to coops, feeding them some cuttings, green scraps, alfalfa, or even dandelions will help them get those extra dark yolks.

If you are looking for in-season produce to pair with those delicious eggs, here is what to look for:

Fruits:

• Blood Orange

• Kumquats

• Kiwi

• Cherries

• Rhubarb

• Strawberries

• Blueberries

Vegetables:

• Arugula

• Artichokes

• Asparagus

• Brussel Sprouts

• Cauliflower

• Cabbage

• Carrots

• Peas

• Leeks

• Lettuce

I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t love a good waffle, including my kids, so our new favorite egg meal has become chaffles. If you haven’t heard of them, they are a simple cheese and egg waffle.

My personal favorite is the taco chaffel. I add some taco seasoning to the cheddar cheese and egg batter and then top it with salsa, greens, avocado, and cilantro. I also like to use chaffels instead of bread for sandwiches and burgers. My kids love sweeter chaffels, so I use cream cheese or ricotta with the eggs and then add in some maple syrup and cinnamon.

We top the sweet chaffels with mini chocolate chips, more maple syrup, or whipped cream. I enjoy the sweet chaffels with some fresh berries.

You can really try just about any combo, and they can be made for any meal of the day. They also freeze well to make ahead of time and warm up when you want them. They are delicious and nutrient packed.

Chaffles (Cheese and Egg Waffles)

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese of choice (cream cheese or ricotta for sweet or cheddar for savory)

Optional Ingredients (will make them taste more like waffles and less eggy):

• 2tbs almond flour

• ½ tsp psyllium husk

• ½ tsp baking powder

Instructions:

• Preheat a waffle iron to medium-high heat, and make sure to use a non-stick spray.

• In a medium bowl or blender, whisk together eggs, shredded cheese, optional ingredients, and seasonings.

• Pour mixture into a waffle iron and cook for about 5 minutes or until the egg is fully cooked. Repeat until you’ve used all of the “batter.” Should make 2 chaffels

• Serve plain, with your favorite toppings, depending on your sweet or savory preferences.

WINE, CHILI, & GREEN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

because of COVID, but outside of one year, when we had it at River View Park, they've all been at Flying Flags and we've really liked having it here."

Vreeland added that have the Sideways Inn next to the RV park (with an easily accessible walkway between them) has helped bring more out-of-town people in for the event.

"We have deals with Sideways Inn where they can stay there and just walk on over for the festival," she said. "In fact, we hold the festival on a Sunday so they can stay an extra night."

While the drinks and other kinds of food available was there for the enjoyment of foodies, the different kinds of beverages, chili, and salsa provided by the vendors were also up for evaluation to find the best ones on the premises. Awards were given out by a handpicked panel of judges, but the attendees were also giving their votes in the People's Choice categories.

One of the booths taking part in competition was Elubia's Kitchen, a food truck and catering operation based out of Goleta. Owner/operator Elubia Orozco commented on the event while cooking up a row of pupusas.

"We're here fixing our chilis and green chiles for the competition," Orozco said. "But we also have our tacos and pupusas on the menu, so we want to give the customers a chance to sample those.

"We have our food truck that we can take anywhere, so being able to come to events like these is really good."

When all was said and done, Orozco had a successful day as Elubia's Kitchen took first place in the judge's Red Chili category, and an honorable mention in the judges' Chili Verde category.

Meanwhile, not all the vendors at the event were selling food and drink. Jill Drexhage of Guadalupe was manning a table for her business, Oh Shirt and More, where she sells T-shirts and other product with clever — and sometimes risque — sayings on them.

"I kind of bring the laughter with my products. I sell T-shirts, coffee mugs, tumblers, greeting cards; I just try to have fun with," Drexhage said. "I spent 20 years working at a bank and needed change, so I just started this. This is my third time here, and it's a great way to drum up business."

In addition to the food and drink prevalent on the Flying Flags site, there was also some entertainment on the stage set up to the right of the festival entrance: The Firedance Irish

Dancers made an appearance early on, while later the blues/roots rock band Chickenbone Slim and the Biscuits, and DJ F.I.U. took the stage to play for the crowds.

Through it all a good time was had by the attendees.

Friends Carmen McCotter and Rachel Palmer came up from Santa Barbara after seeing a billboard of the event and came back up to check it out.

"This is our first time here and we have loved it," McCotter said. "We probably had lower expectations, in that we'll just come in and have wine, have some chili — no big deal — but it's really well-organized. It's a lovely place, and there's shade and trees everywhere. And there are so many fun vendors. I feel like we've been having the best time here."

Another guest at the event was pretty wellknown locally: Buellton Mayor Dave King was enjoying the festivities and talking with some of the other attendees.

"It's been awesome," he said when asked

about the event. "I think we sold like 1,500 tickets for this and they had to release another 400, so we're at capacity now."

King also noted that while everyone was having a great time, things didn't get out of hand.

"Yeah, no incidents. Every year we've had this there have been to incidents," he said. "Everybody's been really great, and this is just a really big advertisement of the businesses here, and it's been spectacular."

When asked about the date of next year's Wine & Chili Festival, Vreeland said it hadn't been confirmed yet, but expected it to be sometime in March 2025, and expresses a preference to have it back at Flying Flags.

Winners of the Judged and People's Choice category for food and drink were:

Judged by a panel of judges

Chili Verde

Champion: Firestone Walker Brewery

Runner up: Lido’s Food Truck

Honorable Mention: Elubia’s Kitchen

Red Chili

Champion: Elubia’s Kitchen

Runner up: The Family Soul

Honorable Mention: Figueroa Mtn

Salsa

Champion: Pancho Gonzales

Runner up: Firestone Walker Brewery

Honorable Mention: Third Window Brewing

People's Choice

Chili Verde: Firestone Walker Brewery

Red Chili: Flying Flags RV Resort

Salsa: Firestone Walker Brewery

White Wine: Brick Barn Winery

Red Wine: Brick Barn Winery

Craft Beer: Rincon Brewery

Alternative Alcohol: Goleta Red Distillery

Booth Showmanship: Rock12 Distillery

With the Buellton Wine & Chili Festival falling on St. Patrick's Day this year, many attendees made sure to wear their green at Flying Flags RV Park and Campground.

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

TUESDAY, APRIL 2

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

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

For more info: countyofsb.org

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3

SOLVANG TOURISM AND MARKETING ADVISORY COMMITTEE, 10 A.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

NOTE: The TMAC will meet the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m.

THURSDAY, APRIL 4

BUELLTON PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

MONDAY, APRIL 8

SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL, 6:30 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 9

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

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

For more info: countyofsb.org

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10

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

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

For more info: countyofsb.org

LOS OLIVOS COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT, 5:30 P.M.

St Mark’s in the Valley Episcopal Church , Stacy Hall, 2092 Nojoqui Ave, Los Olivos

For more info: losolivoscsd.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 11

CALENDAR

BUELLTON CITY COUNCIL, 6 P.M.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 12

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

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

For more info: countyofsb.org

TUESDAY, APRIL 16

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT, 5:30 P.M.

At Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, Administrative Building, 2975 East Highway 246 Santa Ynez

For more info: syvuhsd.org

EVENTS

SATURDAY, APRIL 6

FLYING MIZ DAISY VINTAGE MARKET, 9 A.M. TO 3 P.M.

The Spring Vintage Popup Market will be held Saturday, April 6, at Mission Santa Ines in Solvang. Admission and parking is free. At Mission Santa Ines, 1760 Mission Drive, Solvang For more info visit flyingmizdaisy. com

CALIFORNIA POPPY DAY, 10

A.M. TO 3 P.M.

Celebrate California Poppy Day with free admission to the California Nature Art Museum. Join us for our first annual California Poppy Day, held in celebration of both poppies and pollinators (also see our current first-floor exhibition, "The Birds and the Bees and More: Pollinators"). California Poppy Day admission is free, and reservations are not required. At California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Drive, Solvang For more information, contact Rachel Metz at rachel@calnatureartmuseum.org.

ARTISAN'S MARKET, 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.

An Artisan's Market will be held in Santa Ynez from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month, starting April 6 in the parking lot of Farmacy — Santa Ynez. The Artisan’s Markets feature a variety of

kiosks manned by local artisans displaying their wares, including jewelry, clothing, gifts, soaps, crafts, candles, art and food. Farmers are also welcome. Vendors interested in participating in any of these Artisan’s Market locations can call Georgina Guttman at (505) 270-2332 or on Instagram @solvangartisansmarket. At Farmacy — Santa Ynez, 3576 Madera St., Santa Ynez

For more info: Call Georgina Guttman (505) 270-2332, Instagram @solvangartisansmarket

SATURDAY, APRIL 13

SONGWRITERS AT PLAY SONG

CONTEST FINALE, 2 TO 5 P.M.

The Finale of the Songwriters at Play Song Contest is set for Saturday April 13, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the High Roller Tiki Lounge in Solvang. Ten contestants play two original songs each, and three judges award prizes, including a grand prize of $1,000. Yes, there will be trophies too! Tickets are $20, on sale now at https://my805tix. com/e/the-finale-of-the-songwriters-atplay-song-contest

The venue is open to ages 21 and over. No food is served, but it is OK to bring your own.

At High Roller Tiki Lounge, 433 Alisal Road, Solvang

For more info: songwritersatplay.com

ONGOING

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS STORYTIME AT SOLVANG

LIBRARY, 10:30 A.M., TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS

Join us indoors on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.

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

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: Solvang Library (805) 6884214

WEDNESDAYS

SOLVANG FARMERS MARKET, 2:30 TO 6 P.M.

Each week, the farmers in the marketplace display a colorful bounty of agricultural

products grown right in our backyard. Seasonal diversity is available year-round rain or shine. Come. Shop. Socialize. Certified — the only way to buy! Join us in downtown Solvang every Wednesday on First Street, between Mission Drive (Highway 246) and Copenhagen Drive.

WINE WEDNESDAYS IN BUELLTON, 4 TO 8 P.M.

Please join us for an evening out with family fun for all in Buellton, hosted by Esfuerzo Wines and The Birria Boyz. This event will take place each Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Each week we will have guest food vendors, live music and much more to be announced. We hope to see you there!

At 140 Industrial Way, Buellton

For more info: info@esfuerzowine.com

SPORTS AND RECREATION

ONGOING

PICKLEBALL, TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS 6:30 TO 8:30 P.M.

Pickleball — part Ping-Pong, part badminton, lots of momentum — is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. The games can be fast-paced and deliver a good workout. 2 person teams/ or singles. All are welcome!

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

DROP-IN ADULT BASKETBALL, YEAR ROUND, MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS 6 TO 7:15 A.M.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

OPEN BASKETBALL, ONGOING, MONDAYS, 7:30 TO 9:30 P.M.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

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