Perfect weather greets residents, proving that 'Anything is Possible in America' on its 249th birthday
By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer
It was the perfect day, weatherwise, to celebrate the 4th of July. Throngs of people from near and far lined the sidewalks of Solvang to celebrate America’s 249th anniversary of its Independence Day with a patriotic parade whose theme this year was “Anything is Possible in America.”
The Grand Marshals of this year’s parade were Kay and Walt Alves. They moved to the Valley in 1959, and for the past 66 years, they have been steeped in volunteering. The couple has donated countless hours to Old Mission Santa Ines, the San Lorenzo Seminary and the Seminary Foundation, and the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum. But above all, the Alveses have been committed to the Rotary and Rotary International, both actively fundraising for Rotary’s scholarship program, with the two of them always cooking for Old Santa Ynez Days and Danish Days.
There were 74 entries in this year’s colorful parade, all bedecked
with red, white, and blue and the American flag. Following the singing of the national anthem by sixth-grader Evie Gerritsen, daughter of Griffin and Gigi Gerritsen, the parade started promptly at 10 a.m. with the Color Guard American Legion Post #160 leading the way, soon followed by the Alveses as Grand Marshals.
After that, the parade included several dignitaries, including the Solvang and Buellton mayors
and City Councilmembers; newly named 2025 Danish Queen Addie Madrid, riding in a 1936 Ford Roadster; 2025 Youth Rec Queen Kacy Caplan with SYV Youth Recreation; and Miss Santa Ynez Old Days Rodeo Queen Hailee Taylor.
Many local organizations were present at the parade, including the Solvang Chamber of Commerce, Solvang Senior Center, Atterdag Village, and Solvang The-
aterfest. Santa Ynez High School sports programs were represented, among them the varsity and JV football teams — some of whom jumped off the back of the trailer and did push-ups — as well as players from the water polo and girls volleyball squads.
Many entries came to entertain and perform, such as local parade and event staple Garcia Dance Studio of Lompoc, Pacific Flips
CONTINUED ON PAGE 13
• Author Rich Gamble hosting farewell party
News Pg. 4
• Planning Commission deadlocks on proposed private school, denying project
Pg. 7
• New California laws effective July 1 Sports
. Pg. 8
• 2025 Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic benefits People Helping People
Community Pg. 9
• Skynet Playground the latest edition to Buellton's outdoor adventure park'
Pg. 12 • Comedians Orny Adams, Frazer Smith coming to Solvang Festival Theater
Pg. 16
• Government meetings and events
The winner of the Best Automobile, single, is the George Family 1929 Model A Roadster. Photo by Devyn Marseilles
NEWS BRIEFS
LOS ALAMOS
Author Rich Gamble hosting farewell party July 27
Rich Gamble, author of the Zack Tolliver series of books, and his wife Ann, will be moving from Los Alamos this fall to be closer to their son, who lives in Northern California. They will be holding an “Overstock and Farewell” party from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at the Bedford Winery in Los Alamos.
“It will be an opportunity offering readers to ‘fill in the blanks’ of books in the Zack Tolliver series, for a reduced price, that they may not yet own, and, of course, the chance for us to see friends and neighbors once more,” said Gamble. “We would love to see all of you there.”
Gamble says he will continue to write books, and, in fact, his next one is already in the works. Bedford Winery is at 448 Bell St. in Los Alamos.
LOS OLIVOS
Monthly cooking classes offered in the Grange Kitchen
The Santa Ynez Valley Grange, in partnership with Apples to Zucchini Cooking School, is excited to offer two series of cooking classes for both families and adults/teens: Family Cooking will be offered monthly on second Monday evenings from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Batch Cooking for adults and teens will be offered monthly on second Sunday afternoons from 2 to 3 p.m. The remaining dates for the Family Cooking Class are Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13,
and Nov. 10. The dates for the Batch Cooking Class are Aug. 10, Sept. 7, Oct. 12, and Nov. 9
The classes, led by Chef Bethany Markee, will meet at the Santa Ynez Valley Grange Hall Kitchen at 2374 Alamo Pintado Ave. in Los Olivos.
The Family Cooking class brings the family together to learn side-by-side how to prepare delicious meals. Classes are tailored for children and teens with a family adult. Share your favorite food memories and traditions, build healthy relationships with food and cooking, and let the kids show off all their emerging kitchen skills! The class will meet to prepare a meal and eat it together.
Recipes to be covered include scratchmade pizza and seasonal garden salad; macaroni and cheese and roasted vegetables; chicken or vegetable soup and freshly baked bread; tomato bisque and toasted cheese sandwiches; and French crepes with a variety of “add-ins.”
Batch Cooking is a class for adults as well as teens who are 14 or older. The group will work with seasonally available local produce, using simple and repeatable cooking techniques such as roasting, sautéing, pickling, making soups, salad dressings, and sauces. Students will get to take home all the food prepared in class.
Attendance is limited to 12 per class. Participants may register online at AtoZcookingschool.org.
To find out more about other SYV Grange programs and membership, please visit syvgrange.org or email President Carey McKinnon at syvgrange@gmail.com. To check out more cooking classes from Ap-
ples to Zucchini, visit them at AtoZcookingschool.org or email Markee at bethany@ atozcookingschool.org.
BUELLTON
Buellton releases July’s featured art
Each month this year, the City of Buellton features a different design and showcases the contributing artists from their community art project — “Exploring the Ocean.”
July’s featured art is sponsored by Face in Water: Swimming and Water Safety Education and includes artwork from Mauricia Martin, Theresa Reilly, Adam Hrehor, Sohia Briseno, Perla Orellana, and Mila Phonthongsy. You can see their original artwork at buellton.art/2025-july-oceanart-feature/
This project is made possible by Buellton’s Art & Culture Program, the California Nature Art Museum (our nonprofit partner), monthly sponsorships, and the support of the Buellton community.
Go to Buellton.Art to:
See all of the banners and the original art for each design
Learn about Buellton’s Arts & Culture Program and see how you or your organization can apply for a grant
Visit our “Shop the Art” store, where you
can purchase the art on posters, magnets, totes, water bottles, and more.
SANTA YNEZ
Santa Ynez High School names Sean Yamasaki head wrestling coach
The Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District has named Sean Yamasaki as its wrestling head coach.
Yamasaki just graduated from San Francisco State with a BS in Kinesiology with Cum Laude honors. He is a 2020 graduate of Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta.
“We are extremely excited to bring Sean on board as our new wrestling coach,” SYHS Athletic Director Josh McClurg said. “Coach Yamasaki comes from a highly decorated and well-known wrestling family on the Central Coast. His father and brother were highly decorated wrestlers, and his father coached at Dos Pueblos High School as well.
“Sean has amassed a ton of honors as a high school and college wrestler, and we can’t wait to see him pass his knowledge on to our wrestling team. Our athletes will benefit greatly from his wrestling knowledge from competing at the college level, as well as the top-level coaching staff he is currently assembling.”
At Dos Pueblos High, Sean finished his high school career as one of only three wrestlers in Channel League history to be a four-time league champion. He was a threetime CIF Southern Section top 10 competitor, finishing second, third, and sixth. He was a top 12 finisher at the CIF Southern
CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
HOME CARE IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME
Sean Yamasaki
STAR NEWS
Buellton City Council approves alternative water- and sewer-rate hike
Councilmembers give city's ratepayers three extra months to brace for increase
By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com
In a marathon meeting on Thursday, July 10, the Buellton City Council approved a water- and sewer-rate increase, its first since 2016.
The increase came after a process that began in 2024, when the City Council approved the contract for the Water and Wastewater Rate Study with Willdan Financial. The water and wastewater rate study provides a comprehensive analysis that will ensure that the cost of service will not exceed either the cost of providing the service or the proportional cost of the service attributable to a particular parcel. The prior formal rate studies were completed in 2016 and 1996, with a small increase in 2016. The city’s operational costs for both water and wastewater have not been sustained through the existing rate structure and have required transfers from those fund reserves. As part of the study, staff worked closely with Willdan Financial and had several meetings with the Rate Committee, consisting of Mayor David Silva, Councilmember Hudson Hornick, and staff, to ensure that the direction of the study and the growth projections and financial assumptions were sound. The Final Water and Wastewater Rate Study (Exhibit A) includes a detailed analysis, including cost of service allocation, of how the rates were calculated.
The City Council passed over Willdan's recommended rate increase schedule, which called for steep increases starting on Aug. 1, in favor of a schedule that, while costing more in the long run, delayed the first increase until Nov. 1. In the meantime, council directed staff to find way to get supplemental income to help increase the reserve water and sewer funds.
Vice Mayor Elysia Lewis was the first to suggest the Alternative 2 schedule, calling it more "compassionate" and instituting a more gradual increase over five years for the ratepayers.
"I like the idea of stretching it out, the idea of incremental increases, even with more to pay in the long run, it gives us a runway. It doesn’t come as a shock to the system," Lewis said.
Hornick agreed with that assessment, and pointed out it comes after years of no rate increase.
"It puts everyone on notice," he said about the Nov. 1 date. "We're letting them know, we had a great run, but now it’s time to pay the piper."
The item passed on a 3-1 vote, with Councilmember John Sanchez opposing. "I want to use the recommended schedule and get these rates in," Sanchez said before the vote. "We've been talking about how we are in this mess because councils didn't install any increases in the past, and now we're going to delay it three more months."
With the approval, starting on Nov. 1, rate payers can expect an increase from the current $101.72 per month to $135.63. After that, the rates will go up each year through
2030, when the rate will increase to $214.35.
City Manager Scott Wolfe reminded council that the rates will be reviewed and can be lowered on a year-by-year basis.
City Manager Scott Wolfe and City Attorney Greg Murphy held off on discussion of the item because, as part of the Proposition 218 process of review, city ratepayers had an opportunities to submit written protests of the increase that would have delayed the agenda. However, only 97 protests were submitted, well short of the 1,084 required, which represented 50% + 1 of the Buellton ratepayers.
The item brought in several speakers during Public Comment, all of whom were unhappy with the increase, though some admitted it was needed.
"I understand it needs to happen, but it’s a hard pill to swallow," said Troy Morehouse. "Ninety-three percent in 35 days, and next year 171 percent [quoting the orginal rate schedule that wasn't adopted]? That’s ridiculous."
Morehouse also took to task the failure of past City Council to implement more reasonable increases in the past decade, saying the current council was "asking us to pay for the sins of our fathers."
Daniel Durbiano also opposed the original rate hike, though he understood the tough spot the councilmembers were in.
"I've spent 22 years in public works, so I have intimate knowledge of this," he said. "This is one of the most contentious things a City Council has to deal with. I’m for an increase but not like this. Don’t ask us to take this balloon payment. Do it a little more compassionate."
Fortunately, councilmembers did take the suggestions for a more gradual increase, and staff is expected to provide suggestions for supplemental revenue to replenish the water fund at a later meeting, probably in September.
The City Council meets next on Thursday, July 24, at 6 p.m.
Members of the Buellton City Council discuss the water-rate increase during its regular meeting on Thursday, July 10. Screenshot from YouTube
Planning Commission deadlocks on proposed private school, denying project
Debate over location of Hundred Hills School on Willemsen property comes to a head at meeting
By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com
ABuellton Planning Commission item on the building of a proposed private elementary school consisting of "yurts," or California Roundhouse buildings, on Dairyland Road, in the same area as the Buellton Library, ultimately led to a 2-2 vote from the commissioners, technically denying the project, during the Thursday, July 3, meeting.
However, Commission Chair Shannon Reese said near the end of the three-hour meeting that the proposal will end up going before the City Council at some point. The item was put on the Planning Commission after members of the public voiced their concerns about the school during a town-hall meeting in June.
After City Manager Scott Wolfe introduced the item requested a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the project, Contract Planner Irma Tucker made a presentation for the proposal, called the Hundred Hills School Project.
Speaking by remote, Tucker explained the Hundred Hills School would be a Waldorf-inspired school serving preschool through the fourth grade. The campus, on the topmost portion of the Willemsen Property at 202, 208, 212, and 218 Dairyland Road, would consist of four classrooms, one administration building, and one restroom, all of the California Roundhouse building style, more commonly know as "yurts."
Tucker said the school would originally serve a maximum of 50 students, and the length of approved for the CUP would not exceed five years.
"Mainly, this would be an incubator site," she said. "They want to establish their school on this site while searching for a more permanent location. The temporary use would allow the site to return to original use."
Applicant Sundeep Chanana thanked
However, the project did also have supporters that spoke out at the meeting. Some of those who spoke in favor of Hundred Hills School noted the lack of options for students in early education, most notably preschool, while others praised other Waldorf schools and said it would be a great experience for Buellton children.
"It is good for Buellton to have another option," Ralph Kunz said. "My kids went to a Waldorf school, and when they were in college, professors said what great kids we have and how they have a different way of thinking. It's important to consider it’s not for everybody, but it’s an opportunity for people if they want it."
After public comment, commissioners expressed their final thoughts on the item.
the supporters of the project and also the detractors, noting the "subset who go out of their way to disrupt our Saturday get-togethers, post anti-school flyers, and spread misinformation," and requested they take him up on his offer to meet so he can tell them about his school.
Chanana lauded the benefits of the school, calling it "an unparalled educational opportunity for Buellton and mentioned he and his wife had offered to pay the city the full cost of the five-year lease upfront but that the offer was refused.
He also addressed concerns stated by residents, saying that the topography of the site would be unchanged with only minimal grading; the structures to be built would have the longevity of stick-built homes; and there would be only one pickup and dropoff zone and that pickups and dropoffs would be staggered to mitigate traffic. He stated 40% of the schools applicants were from Buellton, with scholarships being offered to Buellton residents.
Fellow applicant Whitney Chanana, thanked their supporters for being there. She
told the commission addressed the neighbors to the project and stated they had listened to their concerns about parking, traffic, and architectural compatibility during the earlier town hall meeting. She asked the Planning Commission to consider the project on its merits, and give students and parents in a city with one elementary another option.
After the applicants' presentations and a short recess, the meeting reached public comment, which elicits contributions from 32 people on the record, 18 of them stating opposition.
Most of the objections came from residents of the surrounding neighborhood who believed there would be a negative impact with traffic and noise because of the school. Others did not like the idea of city-owned land being used for a private school. Former Buellton Mayor Holly Sierra, speaking strictly as a city resident, “The property was supposed to be for the people of Buellton. While I’m not against the school, it shouldn’t be on this property. It should be for the people of Buellton, not a private school.”
Commissioner Kasey Kump said that listening to all the input, he felt the project just didn't fit in with the neighborhood, emphasizing that the decision was not a judgement on alternative education or private schools in general. Meanwhile, Vice Chair Marcillo Sarquilla said that while traffic concerns could be mitigated by shuttling students to and from the school, he felt that Oak Valley Elementary School in Buellton was adequately providing the needed services for preschool and kindergarten students.
Commissioner Brian Campbell was concerned that the project came as a surprise to many residents, but felt there were merits to both sides of the issue, while Chair Shannon Reese said that while she liked the idea of a small town like Buellton having just one school that everyone went to, she felt the project was appropriate for the zone, noting that uses such as schools and churches are routinely places in residential infill zones. She states she lives next to Jonata School, which is much larger and also uses collector streets, and she doesn’t find it has an adverse impact.
Ultimately the commission voted twice, both times Sarquilla moving for disapproval, and both times resulting in a 2-2 deadlock with Sarquilla and Kump voted to disapprove, and Campbell and Reese voting not to disapprove. Wolfe announced that the vote actually meant the CUP was denied and the matter would go next to the City Council.
Shown is an artist rendering of the Hidden Hills School campus proposed for the Wilhelmsen property owned by the city. Photo courtesy of City of Buellton
Platinum
Grand Finale Sponsor
City of Solvang
Active Military Sponsor
Santa Barbarba County Veterans Foundation
Visit Santa Ynez Valley
Buellton Visitors Bureau
C&D llp
Allan Hancock College
Trade Sponsors
• The Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort
• Barca & Barca Financial Network
• Charlottes of Santa Ynez
• John Kuelbs
Henry Shulte Family Foundation
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation
Childrens Free Admission Sponsor
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation
Cal-Coast Machinery, Inc.
EVXP Electric Vehicles
Honest Abe Cider
Firestone - Walker Brewery
Solvang Brewing Co
Pacific Beverage Co
Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co.
Nielsen Building Materials, Inc.
Rod and Hammer SLO Stills
• Brick Barn Winery
• El Rancho Market
• First Bank
• Hometown Insurance -Randy Jones
• Kelly Hunziker (Edward Jones)
• Mechanics Bank
• Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital
• US Bank
• Gainey Wines Gold +
• Vreeland Ford
Section Masters two different years and was named Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table Athlete of the Year in 2020. After high school, Sean wrestled for four years at the NCAA Division II level for San Francisco State. He was named team captain and finished in sixth place at NCAA Super Region 6 tournament as well as third in the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation conference tournament.
“In my opinion, Sean’s biggest accomplishment is being a four-time NCWA Academic All-American,” McClurg said. “This is a great example for our athletes to see that their coach excelled in the classroom and on the mat.”
Sydney Vogel named to Muhlenberg College Dean’s List
Sydney Vogel of Santa Ynez and a graduate of Dunn School in Los Olivos, has been named to the spring 2025 Dean’s List while studying biology at Muhlenberg College.
To be eligible for the Dean’s List, Muhlenberg College students must earn a GPA of 3.5 or better while taking three or more course units during a semester.
Founded in 1848, Muhlenberg is a highly selective, four-year residential, liberal arts college in the city of Allentown, Pennsylvania, with nearly 2,000 bachelor’s and master’s degree-seeking students. The college’s curriculum and experiences are designed to open doors to new ideas, discoveries, friendships, and a lifetime of personal and intellectual growth.
SOLVANG
Tickets on sale for Atterdag Village Harvest Party Fundraiser on Sept. 6
On Saturday, Sept. 6, from 4 to 7:30 p.m., people are again invited to gather with friends at Circle JB Polo Ranch in Buellton for an evening of live music, ample food and drink, and more than anything, raise funds to support Atterdag Village of Solvang’s charity outreach to vulnerable, low-income seniors right here in the greater Santa Ynez Valley.
Included is a fire-roasted gourmet dinner, live music by the Bryan Titus Trio, and “action-packed” live and silent auctions led by Auctioneer Kenny Hollister.
Circle JB Polo Ranch is located at 560
McMurray Road in Buellton, for tickets and more information, visit givebutter. com/c/atterdagharvestparty.
CALIFORNIA
Madre Fire grows to over 80,000 acres, containment at 79%
As of July 13, the fast-moving Madre Fire has scorched 80,786 acres in San Luis Obispo County and is 79% contained, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The wildfire, which began along Highway 166 between Santa Maria and New Cuyama, continues to challenge crews due to rugged terrain and unpredictable winds.
Burning through remote grassland and brush, the fire is classified as active. Officials from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) report that nearly half of the blaze’s footprint — approximately 50% — is within the Carrizo Plain National Monument, an ecologically sensitive area known for its open landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Firefighting efforts are being coordinated under a unified command involving the Los Padres National Forest, the Cal Fire San Luis Obispo Unit, and the BLM. Currently, 856 personnel are assigned to the incident, supported by 33 engines, 32 water tenders, 4 helicopters, 14 bulldozers, 21 hand crews, and 186 additional resources.
Operations Section Chief John Chester stated that crews are working aggressively to reinforce containment lines, especially along the fire’s northern and northwestern perimeters. “The terrain in some of these areas is too steep or rocky for dozers,” Chester said. “That’s where our hand crews are making progress, even under difficult conditions.”
So far, the fire has threatened approximately 50 structures and destroyed one. Two firefighters have been injured during the response. No civilian injuries have been reported.
Officials say that while the fire remains active, improved weather conditions and solid containment progress have allowed discussions to begin regarding road access. However, evacuation warnings and road closures remain in effect across portions of the impacted area.
The cause of the Madre Fire remains under investigation.
Residents are urged to stay clear of the fire zone and remain alert as conditions can shift rapidly. For the latest evacuation
and safety information, follow updates from Cal Fire, Los Padres National Forest, and the San Luis Obispo County Office of Emergency Services.
NATIONAL
Flash flood tragedy in Central Texas: Over 120 dead, hundreds still missing as search efforts continue
Catastrophic flash flooding in Central Texas has claimed the lives of at least 120 people, including 28 children, as search and rescue efforts stretched into Monday following one of the worst natural disasters to strike the region in decades.
The devastation is centered in the Texas Hill Country, where the Guadalupe River rose with shocking speed — reportedly 26 feet in 45 minutes — on the morning of July 4. The sudden surge overwhelmed communities across Kerr, Travis, Williamson, Burnet, Tom Green, and Kendall counties.
Among the hardest-hit locations is Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp for girls in western Kerr County. Authorities say 27 campers and counselors from the camp have died, and as of Tuesday morning, six remain unaccounted for — five campers and one counselor. Earlier, officials reported as many as 11 were missing, but the figures have since changed as search operations progressed.
“Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy,” read a statement from the camp on Monday. “We are praying for them constantly.”
Tragically, Camp Mystic’s beloved owner and director, Richard “Dick” Eastland, 74, is among the deceased. According to local reports, he died while heroically trying to rescue girls during the flood.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed on Tuesday that official identifications for 19 adults and seven children recovered in Kerr County are still pending. A total of 84 of the 109 confirmed deaths occurred in Kerr County alone.
The bodies of three girls from North Texas who attended the camp have been recovered, and 20 more bodies were found along the Guadalupe River corridor in other counties.
As of Sunday afternoon, Texas Governor Greg Abbott said 41 people remained missing across the affected areas. Speaking
after touring the devastation, Abbott called the destruction “nothing short of horrific.”
“The height the rushing water reached to the top of cabins was shocking,” Abbott said. “We won’t stop until we find every girl who was in those cabins.”
Camp Mystic had approximately 750 campers on site when the flooding began. The camp sits directly on the banks of the Guadalupe River and was rapidly engulfed by the rising water early Thursday morning.
In response to the disaster, Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday announced the deployment of Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams from California to assist with the efforts. The crews, coordinated through the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and FEMA, are highly trained and experienced in major disaster operations, including 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, and the Montecito mudslides.
“California stands with all those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods in the devastating aftermath of these summer floods in Texas,” Newsom said. “We are sending these specialized resources to support critical emergency response and recovery efforts.”
Cal OES Director Nancy Ward emphasized the team’s readiness, “These search and rescue professionals have the training needed to navigate extreme conditions.” Officials also clarified that the deployment does not impact California’s own emergency response or firefighting capabilities.
Meanwhile, Kerrville officials warned families to be cautious of scammers taking advantage of the unfolding tragedy. City Manager Dalton Rice confirmed that some families had received fraudulent calls amidst the chaos.
The community has been rallying around the victims, and tributes continue to pour in for the lives lost — particularly the young girls at Camp Mystic, whose summer of friendship and faith ended in disaster.
“We ask for your continued prayers, respect and privacy for each of our families affected,” the camp shared on its website. “May the Lord continue to wrap His presence around all of us.”
As emergency crews continue the difficult search through debris and floodwaters, residents and families await answers — clinging to hope, grief, and the strength of a community bound together in heartbreak.
New California laws effective July 1
ABy Hayley Mattson Publishe, Editor in Chief
s of July 1, several new California laws are now in effect, ushering in changes that touch on everything from consumer rights and student mental health to workplace protections and gas taxes.
Easier Subscription Cancellations
Consumers will now find it simpler to cancel subscription services thanks to Assembly Bill 2863, which requires businesses to offer the same cancellation method used to initiate the subscription. The law aims to reduce frustration over hard-to-navigate cancellation systems, a common complaint among Californians.
Short-Term Rental Fee Transparency
For those booking vacation homes, AB 2202 now mandates that platforms like Airbnb disclose all cleaning fees and penalties before a reservation is made. Hosts must also clearly list cleaning tasks expected of guests, ensuring greater transparency and fewer surprise charges.
Mental Health Resources for Students
Under Senate Bill 1063, all public schools serving grades 7 through 12 must print the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and a QR code linking to county-specific mental health resources on student ID cards. This change is part of a broader effort to support youth mental health and prevent suicide.
CARE Act Transparency
New updates to the CARE Act, which
provides court-ordered treatment for individuals struggling with mental health, require courts to keep petitioners informed about the individual’s treatment progress. The law, originally passed in 2022, seeks to provide compassionate care while maintaining accountability and oversight.
Retail Theft and Online Marketplaces
Cracking down on retail theft, AB 2943 and SB 905 increase penalties for crimes like vehicle break-ins when items are intended for resale. Additionally, on -
line marketplaces must now verify the identity of third-party sellers and report suspicious activity to law enforcement, a response to growing concerns over stolen goods being sold online.
Bar Safety Enhancements
Bars across the state must now offer drink lids upon request and post signage warning patrons of drink spiking. Signs must read:
“Don’t get roofied! Drink lids and drink spiking drug test kits available here. Ask a
staff member for details.”
New Protections for Domestic Workers
With the passage of SB 1350, domestic workers — such as nannies and house cleaners hired through agencies — are now covered under Cal/OSHA workplace protections. However, the law does not apply to individuals who hire household help directly for personal use.
Gas and Cannabis Tax Adjustments
The state’s gas tax has increased from 59.6 cents to 61.2 cents per gallon, part of an annual inflation adjustment. Cannabis taxes have also been adjusted, though specifics vary by locality.
Minimum Wage Hikes in Select Cities
Several California cities, including Los Angeles, have raised their minimum wage as of July 1. Local rates now exceed the state minimum, which remains at $16 per hour, depending on the size of the business.
Other Key Changes:
Pet Insurance Transparency: Insurers must now explain premium increases and reductions in coverage to policyholders. Fertility Treatment Coverage: Most insurance plans are now required to cover fertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Food Delivery ID Requirements: Delivery platforms must provide customers with a photo and the first name of their delivery person.
Bounty Hunter Licensing: AB 2043 mandates that all bail fugitive recovery agents — commonly known as bounty hunters — must be licensed in California.
For full details on how these laws may impact you, visit the California Legislature’s website or contact your local city or county government.
Santa Barbara County releases 2024 Agricultural Crop & Livestock Report; strawberries remain top crop
Agricultural production reaches value of $2 billion in Santa Barbara County
Staff Report
The Santa Barbara County’s Agricultural Commissioner’s Office released its 2024 Crop & Livestock Production Report, providing a comprehensive summary of acreage, production, and gross values for the county's agricultural commodities.
Agriculture remains Santa Barbara County’s leading industry with a gross production value of $2,009,138,000 in 2024, an increase of 7.1% over 2023. It is important to note that the values in this report reflect the gross value
of agricultural commodities grown in Santa Barbara County. These figures do not account for production costs such as labor, planting, irrigation, and distribution.
Strawberries retained their position as the county’s top crop for the 22nd consecutive year. A combination of increased acreage and yield contributed to a gross value of $860,478,000, marking an 11% increase over the previous year.
Nursery products, which primarily represent cut flowers and potted plants, held steady as the second most valuable crop at $124,473,000, supported by market demand and product stabilization.
Broccoli rose to the third position with a value of $93,423,000, reflecting a 7.7% increase. Despite reduced acreage, higher yields and strong market
prices boosted the overall value.
Cauliflower moved up to fourth place with a gross value of $78,258,000, though this represents a 7% decrease due to reduced acreage. Blackberries entered the top five for the first time with a value of
SPORTS
$77,956,000, a 27% increase from 2023. This growth was driven by increased acreage, crop maturity, and improved growing practices.
The agricultural commodity that saw the sharpest decline compared to last year was wine grapes.
“Santa Barbara County’s wine grape production was markedly low, with reduced yields per acre," said Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer Jose Chang. "Despite this smaller yield, the high quality of the grapes fueled strong demand and robust pricing, especially when compared to other regions.”
Livestock production value increased despite a lower number of stock. This was because of strong national cattle prices in 2024, driven by low inventory from high demand and prior droughts, increasing the
per-animal value.
“In Santa Barbara County, better 2024 rainfall improved pastures, allowing for heavier calves and retention of more young stock, though local herd numbers remained down,” said Chang.
The Fruits & Nuts category dominated by strawberries, accounted for 53% of the county’s total gross production value, totaling $1,064,686,000. Vegetables made up 31% of the total at $628,145,000, while Nursery Products contributed 6% at $124,473,000. Wine grapes followed closely, comprising 3% of the total gross production value at $70,857,000.
The 2024 Crop & Livestock Report is available in English and Spanish. It, as well as other reports since 1916, can be found online at www.countyofsb. org/469/Crop-Reports.
2025 Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic benefits People Helping People
Annual event in eastern Santa Ynez Valley brings together barbecue, wine, and horses
Staff Report
Asold-out crowd of 300 gathered in boots and fancy hats at the Piocho Ranch on Sunday, June 29, for the 13th annual 2025 Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic.
Proceeds from the event benefit People Helping People (PHP), the Valley's lifeline for vulnerable residents in need of food, shelter, medical care, and connection to other critical services.
Holding an American flag under a bright blue sky with the mountains as a backdrop, Sean Pitts, one of the owners of Happy Canyon Vineyards, kicked off the main match. "There is no greater honor than to help People Helping People," announced Pitts.
Sean and his wife, Jodi Barrack Pitts, and TJ Barrack are longtime supporters of the Classic. The trio took over running the event when a more elaborate version
became an organizational burden for the small nonprofit. It has transitioned from an ultra-chic day in the country to a casual
event that is pure Valley, bringing together barbecue, wine, and horses.
"I just am so grateful to them," PHP
Board President Becky Barieau said. "They chose to maintain the continuity and the legacy of the polo event and it still benefits us. It's a great thing. It's a really great thing."
"It's about the community that People Helping People supports that are near and dear to our hearts," Sean Pitts said, noting PHP's support of ranch and farm laborers.
Jodi Barrack Pitts' family has been part of the Santa Ynez community for well over three decades. She added, "We really love where we live and we want to give back where we live. And we love what they do."
Joel Baker, a local high-goal player and national coach, started the Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic with People Helping People in 2012. That relationship is especially meaningful to PHP this year as they just helped facilitate the first residents to move into Polo Village, a beautiful, new, affordable housing complex in Buellton.
The Polo Village development is built on the very land where the Classic started, a polo field formerly owned by Baker. Forty-nine family members and individ -
(From left) Ric Hovsepian, Sean Pitts, Jodi Pitts, TJ Barrack, Becky Barieau, and People Helping People CEO Erica Flores pose with some players at the 2025 Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic. Photo by Robert W Kranz
Skynet Playground the latest edition to Buellton's outdoor adventure park
Highline Adventures, off Highway 246, offers attendees the chance to get outside, get active
By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com
Jeff Hartman opened the Highline Adventures outdoor adventure park near Buellton in 2023 to give people more opportunities to get outside and active. Now, Hartman is looking to expand his customer base to families and younger kids, and in the process, he jokingly says, make "Skynet" known more than just being the name of the fictional computer system that threatened mankind in the "Terminator" movie franchise.
This "Skynet" refers to the park's new Skynet Playground, a first-of-its-kind colorful, elevated netted zone featuring 10 enclosed adventure spaces designed for safe climbing, bouncing, and motor skill development, all while parents can relax or join
in the fun. This expansion, which opened at the end of May, complements Highline Adventures' existing adventure park, which features a variety of thrilling courses and challenges for teens and adults, according to Hartman.
“The Skynet’s been great for us because we can get the whole family out here and give them something to do,” Hartman said of the playspace, which is made for children as young as 2, as well as adults and older kids. "The zipline and adventure course I limit to ages 10 and up and between 75 and 275 pounds, and I was missing out on that younger kid demographic, which I can see clearly now, being the father of a 2-year-old and 6-year-old. I thought to myself we were missing out on whole families who have nothing to do out here.”
The Skynet is an elevated structure nestled between the adventure courses at the park, which is located just outside the Buellton city limits off Highway 246. Participants can ran back-and-forth between
The Skynet Playground, the newest addition, to the Highline Adventures park outside of Buellton, is shown in this aerial view. Note the park's adventure course going past the playground. Photo courtesy of Highline Adventures
SPOTLIGHT
C.J. Jackson's message: You are never too old to get fit and healthy
Alisal Ranch operator's fitness journey has taken him to an abbreviated father-son hike in Hawaii and back again
By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer
When you hear the name C.J. Jackson, you automatically associate it with the Alisal Ranch and you would be correct. Jackson’s family has owned and operated the ranch since it was purchased in 1943. Dating back to 1810, the 10,700-acre Alisal Ranch has a history of cattle, thoroughbred horses, and farming.
Jackson, 67 years young, was born in Santa Barbara County and has lived in Solvang for the past 30 years.
When he was young, Jackson would ride up with his family to the ranch in Santa Ynez Valley when his grandfather owned it. However, he did so reluctantly.
“My parents and extended family live in Montecito and have for generations,” he said. “When I had to accompany my parents up to the Valley, it was the last place I wanted to be, because I had friends and a life in Montecito and the Valley was the last place I wanted to visit — the place was as dull as dishwater when I was 13.”
Jackson eventually went off to college at Yale, and then graduate school in Claremont, in Los Angeles County, where me met and married his wife, Mary. However, living in LA County was not ideal for the Jacksons.
They moved to the Valley in 1995, when Jackson was a banker who wanted to find another line of work. "My banking experience helped my father with real estate lease-hold issues, and in 2006, I formally took over running Rancho Alisal and then the Alisal Cattle Ranch,” he said.
Three decades later, he has run the ranch and been a member of many boards and organizations. His focus has always been on the well-being of the Alisal and the community in which he lives. But unfortunately, his own well-being was ignored.
“I was pretty out of shape, having had a hip replacement in February 2019, just before COVID hit and we were not permitted to gather for business purposes in my office.
My doctor said I was borderline diabetic, and overweight, and I didn’t feel in control of my own destiny,” Jackson admitted. “My friend Richard Crutchfield, who was 80 at the time, guilted me out of my recliner to begin walking. The first day we got up to about a quarter mile, then progressed with regular walks, eventually accomplishing 15 miles a week — five-mile outings three times a week. That took about nine months to accomplish.”
Then, Jackson took it even further, hiring a group of people — a nutritionist, his primary care physician, personal trainer — and continued to exercise with Crutchfield to reach his initial goal of losing 50 pounds.
"Initially my nutritionist put me on a program which helped me lose some weight, but it was slow going,” he said. “My doctor saw improvement and challenged me to go further, and my personal trainer put me on a program that included aspects of physical therapy to enhance my athletic capability, improving my balance, flexibility, and range of movement. I even started skiing with my grandchildren, hiking, and even backpacking.”
For inspiration, Jackson would hang up a one-size-too-small pair of jeans on the wall of his home office. As he lost weight, he would hang another smaller pair, then another, his goal being to fit into a pair with a size 32 waist, which he is still working towards accomplishing.
“I was getting healthy, but I still needed to lose some weight,” said Jackson. “So, my nutritionist put me on a specific plan that she thought matched my personality, and I subsequently lost 30 pounds in 30 days.”
Then, an extraordinary opportunity arose for father and son to spend some time together backpacking in Hawaii. Jackson's son, J.P., who is a backpacking enthusiast and guide, received notification from Napali Coast State Park in Kauai, Hawaii, granting him and two others permission to spend four days and three nights camping and backpacking in the park, a long sought-after goal.
“He had been applying for the permit by lottery for 10 years," Jackson said. "He has been working for the past 12 years as an outfitter and backpacking and rafting guide, leading groups of people interested in outdoor adventures in national parks all over the country, such as the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Sequoia, and Death Valley."
Once J.P. had the permit in hand, Jackson
C. J. Jackson is looking trim and fit, and healthy and happy, after the 30-year Santa Ynez Valley resident made dietary and lifestyle changes. Photos courtesy of C.J. Jackson
C.J. Jackson is shown on a hike carrying his 40-pound backpack, practicing for the eventual hike with his son, J. P. in Hawaii.(Right) C.J. Jackson's son J.P. is shown at Napali Coast State Park in Hawaii. For the past 12 years J. P. has been working as an outfitter and backpacking and rafting guide, leading groups of people interested in outdoor adventures in national parks all over the country.
and son started getting ready.
"We had roughly 90 days to prepare for the 23-mile hike on a four-day/threenight campout," Jackson said. "My son made all the arrangements and preparations and acquired the needed gear. I started wearing my 40-pound backpack on my walks with Richard.”
The day arrived for father and son to fly to Hawaii and begin their adventure. But their adventure took an unexpected turn for the worse.
“We landed in Kauai and spent two days in advance of the hike sightseeing on the island, which was beautiful,” said Jackson. “On the day of the hike we were told that it had rained the night before and early that morning, and they warned us about the slippery red clay. But we were prepared. I was wearing the best equipment and shoes and carried poles, so I felt secure to begin the hike. We got about a mile and a half up the trail before I slipped and fell on my back. The backpack broke my fall but, unfortunately, my left foot got lodged between two rocks, and I tore my quadriceps. It was heartbreaking that we couldn’t continue the hike. Perhaps it was a blessing in disguise. Who knows, I could have slipped and fallen on my face further up the trail and been in a worse position.”
The hike back took twice as long, with J.P. carrying both backpacks. Jackson said he was treated at "a nice little critical access hospital" and they flew back home. Jackson said his son can reapply for a new
permit to hike the trail in six months.
Despite the disappointment, Jackson chose to put a positive spin on the Hawaii trip.
“Initially I had wanted to use my story at the Alisal for the guests, but I realized the ending didn’t quite fit the story I had planned on telling,” he said. “It was then that I realized there was another story to be told about my journey to better health that everyone needed to hear. It’s never too late to start to get in shape, all you need is the desire, determination, willpower, and friends who support you on your journey.”
Jackson's training buddy, Crutchfield, agrees.
“Occasionally C.J. and I will meet in the parking lot of the River Golf Course, readying for our walk, and one of us will say, ‘If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be here this morning,’” said Crutchfield. “It’s really important to have the support of a friend.”
For those who are inspired by Jackson’s story to get fit and healthy again, no matter your age, his advice for the first step is to find a friend and start walking, and then, don’t stop and be consistent. There are also many exercise and nutrition podcasts available on the web that can help you achieve your goals
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is abridged version of the story. The full version of the story can be found on santaynezvalleystar.com
C.J. Jackson's son J.P. points out some of the interesting spots they would be visiting on the backpacking trip along the Napali coastline in Hawaii. Although the hike was cut short when C.J. suffered an injury, they hope to return to complete the trek.
ARTS & NONPROFITS
Comedians Orny Adams, Frazer Smith coming to Solvang Festival Theater
Stand-up performances to benefit Rotary Club of Solvang and Solvang Theaterfest
Comedian Orny Adams will be performing at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Solvang Festival Theater. Also, on stage that night opening for Adams will be stand-up comedian Frazer Smith. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Rotary Club of Solvang and Solvang Theaterfest.
“Orny Adams showed up on YouTube when I was watching comedians such as Brian Regan and Kevin Nealon, who have performed at the Solvang Festival Theater in the past,” said Allen Jones, volunteer chair of the Rotary Club of Solvang. “I thought to myself, ‘Orny is really funny. I wonder if he would be willing to come to Solvang?’ I asked my brother-in-law, Brad Mann, who knows all the great comedians, and he knew Orny and thought he would be great - if you could even get him. So Orny’s assistant emailed me back. We spoke. It seems Orny has ties to the Santa Ynez Valley, loves the area, thought we were a good group, and decided to come.”
“He is a very personable and engaging young man, extremely funny, bright, wellversed on life, and our area. Lucky to have him perform,” said Jones.
“I’m excited to be doing a show in Solvang. In these times, we all need to get out of the house, come together, and laugh! I’ve vacationed there a few times, and I can’t imagine this isn’t going to be any -
Smith. According to Wikipedia, he is an American radio personality, disc jockey, actor, writer, and stand-up comedian. Smith worked in Los Angeles at KROQFM from 1976 through 1979, KLOS from 1979 through 1984, KMET 1984 through 1986, KLSX 1986 through 1997, KLOS in 1997, and KRTH in 2002 and back to KLOS a third time until 2020. He has played small roles in films and television shows and was one of the announcers on the TBS music video show Night Tracks from 1986 to 1988 and 1989 to 1991.
The debut of his manic show on KROQ-FM coincided with that station's rise playing what was then-new new wave music. Smith is noted for his KROQ-FM simulcasts of the 1978 World Series. He coined the phrase "Too hip, gotta go!" while at KLOS. Smith also hosted the late-night television show called "Rock 'N' America," in 1984.
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thing less than an incredible experience. I hope to see you all there," said Adams.
According to his bio, Adams has appeared on every late-night television show. His “More Than Loud” comedy special on YouTube has 7 million views. Orny has had one-hour stand-up specials on Netflix, Comedy Central, and Showtime. He has toured all over the world and gives a full-throttle, high-energy show. You may also recognize him from the hit TV show "Teen Wolf" and the movie "Teen Wolf."
Additionally, he has well over a million followers on social media. Adams delivers a powerful, incisive stand-up routine that vacillates between the relevant and the
absurd. He attacks what’s wrong with the world and sometimes even what’s wrong with himself. He’s brutally honest, satirical, and his performance is ceaselessly energetic.
One of Adam’s many reviews stated, this one by bestselling author Gavin de Becker, “There’s a growing group of people who have known that Orny is a great comic thinker and performer. We search out his stuff on the internet, we go to his shows, and we send emails around with things he’s said. It’s like we discovered Bob Dylan early and everyone else is just about to.”
Opening for Adams that night will be Frazer Smith, also known as Frazier
Presently, Smith is busy doing podcasts and stand-up comedy, which he’s said is his first love. He’s appeared at the Improv, the Laugh Factory, the Ice House, and the Comedy and Magic Club in Hermosa Beach, among others.
Tickets are $59 for reserved seating. Gates and concessions open at 6 p.m. Bring a jacket or blanket for the chilly evenings, as this is an outdoor theater. Refreshments and light snacks are available for purchase.
Tickets are on sale now at https://solvangtheaterfest.com.
For more information on Orny Adams, visit www. ornyadams.com/, and for Smith, visit en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Frazer_Smith.
Solvang Festival Theater is at 420 2nd St., Solvang.
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Comedian Orny Adams will be performing at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Solvang Festival Theater. Veteran radio personality Frazer Smith will be opening for Adams. Tickets are now on sale. Photo courtesy of Michael S. Schwartz gettyimages
Comedian, and longtime LA-area DJ, Frazer Smith will open for Orny Adams on Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Solvang Festival Theater. Contributed photo
Gymnastics, and the dancing horses of Cuadras del Valle de Lompoc.
And there were the different vehicles that traveled down Mission Drive. They included military vehicles from the Flat Fender Friends, vintage cars from the Santa Maria Model A's Ford Club, a coffin mobile right out of "The Munsters," and of course, the Viking Ship steered by the Vikings from Solvang.
The Rotary Club of Solvang, who sponsors the annual event, listed this year’s entry winners in numerous categories as follows: Sweepstakes: Hi Way One Hooligans, Rod Simmons; Best Use of Parade Theme: Miss Santa Ynez Old Days Rodeo with Queen Hailee Taylor and Beefer the mini cow; Most Patriotic: Daughters of the American Revolution; Most Original: Central Coast Mini Riders Munster Coffinmobile; Most Amusing: Solvang Theaterfest Comedian Orny Adams Show Sept 13, 2025; Most Unique: First Street Leather, Solvang; Best Band: Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co.; Best Singing Group: Agin Brothers, Cars & Cowboys; Best Singing, Single: Sanger Family of Wines; Best Family Group: Bob Jones, Four Generations of Joneses; Best Church Group: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints; Best Senior Group: Solvang Senior Center; Best Animal Group: Cuadras Unidas del Valle; Best Wagon Group: Santa Maria Elks Lodge 1538 Officer Wagon and Color Guard; Best Automobile Group: Vapor Trail Vettes; Best Automobile, Single: George Family 1928 Model A Roadster; Best Automobile, Restored: Bob and Margo Gould’s 1956 Chevy Nomad and 1958 Shasta Trailer; Best Automobile, Antique: Santa Maria Model A Ford Club; Best Automobile Antique Group: Rotary Club of Buellton; Best Fire Engine: Summerset Farm’s 1928 Stanford Fire Truck; Best Tractor: Chloe Hinnrich’s 1945 Farmall M Tractor; Best Equestrian Group: Charros Unidos of Costa Central; Best Equestrian, Single: Santa Maria Elks Outrider; Best Viking Ship: Vikings of Solvang; Best Color Guard: VFW Post 7139, American Legion Post 160; Best Street Sweeper: SP Maintenance Services; Road Apple Crew: Espuelas y Rebozos; Best Uncle Sam: Kevan Harder, Nielsen Building Materials; Best Sport Group: Santa Ynez Valley Union High School JV Football Team; Best Military Group: Flat Fender Friends; Best Danc-
ing Group: Garcia Dance Group; Most Energetic: Pacific Flips Gymnastics; Best Group for a Cause: SYV Youth Recreation; Best School Group: Santa Ynez Valley Union High School Water Polo Teams and Aquatics Foundation; Best Youth Group: Santa Ynez Valley Union High School Girls Volleyball; and Best Audience Participation: Veggie Rescue.
“I love that I belong to this community,” said Becky Sutherland of Buellton. “The parade celebrates belonging here.”
After the parade, a 4th of July celebration was held all day, topped off with an evening of fireworks at the Santa Ines Mission.
Before the fireworks, though there was plenty to keep the crowd busy on the lawn in front of the mission. The area was full of food trucks with all varieties of cuisine, along with several vendors selling their products, as well as rides and activities for the kids. On the main stage, musical artists like King Bee, Jayden Secor, The Molly Ringwald Project, and DJ Peete had the crowds dancing.
Many people, though, chose to relax on the berm and wait for darkness to fall for the fireworks show.
Two of them were Celeste and Cathy Drach, who had seat right at the front, and they had to come early and get them.
"They allow us to come out and reserve a spot and we got to claim on Wednesday (July 2)," Celeste Drach said. "And there were people who got theirs earlier; I think the earliest I heard was June 30."
Once it got dark and the berm filled up and it was time.
Incoming Santa Ynez Valley Rotary Board President Jennifer Hertler addressed the crowd, thanking the crowd and crediting the Solvang Rotary Club for their great job on the parade. And after a rousing version of the national anthem from recent SYHS graduate Ruby Andreu, the crowd enjoyed a magnificent fireworks show, again put on by local pyrotechician Kief Adler, which elicited many "oohs" and "aahs."
First Street Leather pulling a trailer with an enormous “leather” purse.
Precision Pressure Washing group doused the onlookers with water that thankfully turned into mist before landing.
Best Uncle Sam is Kevan Harder from Nielsen Building Materials.
Dancing horses contributed to the beauty of the parade and the day.
The Best Automobile Group was Vapor Trail Vettes. Photos by Devyn Marseilles
Bob and Margo Gould’s 1956 Chevy Nomad and 1958 Shasta Trailer with an amusing sign in its window that read “Duffy’s 50/50 Laxatives.”
Summerset Farm’s 1928 Stanford Fire Truck.
the "zones," play games like basketball and volleyball (with added elevation), and even just jump up and down on the bottom like a trampoline.
“This netting is the same kind they’ve started to use in what they call ‘netparks’ in Europe, but are finally coming to the U.S.," Hartman said. "The technology for the nets came from fishing netting, and it's very strong and very bouncy, like a trampoline."
Hartman also looks at the Skynet as more of a free-form activity, for the park attendees.
"With the zipline and adventure courses, we need to go through a little training and orientation, and have to supervise the whole process," he said. "With the Skynet, I can just get the group and let them loose in there."
The playground is the latest addition to the park, whose main feature is the zipline, which takes harnessed riders 1,000 feet above ground, giving them what Hartman calls "the best views in Santa Ynez Valley."
Hartman is a "sixth-generation" Santa Barbara County native who graduated from Laguna Blanca School in Santa Barbara, and then went to the University of Colorado.
"I started a couple of action sports companies in Colorado before I moved back to Santa Barbara County in 2016,” he
said. “I was some ag business for awhile but decided I wanted to do something else. My dad and his partner had the idea for zip course, and I added the adventure course and we submitted it to the county in 2020 and got approval in 2022.”
Hartman said his park is a response to those who wish for more activities to do in the Valley when they speak out at City
Council meetings or events like the recent economic summit.
“Our mission is getting people outside and active, since we live in such a digital age and let them have fun things to do in a curated and safe environment,” he said. “They want something to do other that just drink alcohol — I mean, how much wine can you drink in a day. We say that
you come to our park and be active and then do your wine tasting or have a Danish and do the Solvang experience after.”
In additions to folks just coming in to enjoy the park, Highland Adventures also is available for events, like birthday parties and corporate retreats.
"We have a clubhouse and lawn where people can gather and hang out between activities," he said. "We've hosted parties and brought food trucks, and provided lawn games, seatings and other things."
Hartman, who lives on the property with his wife Hannah, and daughters Pearl, 6, and June, 2, (with a baby boy on the way soon) said he is open to further new additions to the park, which he said is further encouraged by the ag enterprise ordinance passed the county last December.
“We’re looking at what we can do,” he said. “That ordinance was a great thing for ag zone parcels.”
But for the time being, Hartman’s happy providing a local destination to enjoy some neat outdoor experiences.
“We just encourage people to get out and active in a fun environment,” he said. “Our tagline is ‘Explore Through the Trees.’ You can come out as a family and activities for ages 2 years old to 100 years old, and have fun.”
Highline Adventures is located at 700 E. Highway 246, with the entrance to the access road just east of Ostrich Land. To book reservations or to get more info, go to highlineadventures.com.
uals now have permanent housing at this complex designed for seniors, veterans, and working families, along with PHP support services to ensure they stay in that housing.
This year members of La Herradura Polo Club run by Memo Gracida, the legendary polo player, took to the field in the Polo Classic to face off in two matches. The lone woman on the Red team, Gina Padilla, scored four of the team's five goals. Despite her success, the opposing team won, leaving Guille Aguero, Brent Hamill, Jim Mintie, and Matt Thake to lift the celebratory bottles of Happy Canyon wines.
To learn more about People Helping People go to syvphp.org, or call (805) 686-0295.
Highline Adventures park owner/operator Jeff Hartman spends some time at the park's new Skynet Playground, which opened at the end of May. Photo by Mike Chaldu/SYVS
Players charge to the goal in the 2025 Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic at the Piocho Ranch in Santa Ynez. Photo by Robert W Kranz
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16
SANTA YNEZ COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT, 5:30 P.M.
At Community Services District Building, 1070 Faraday St.
For more info: sycsd.com
THURSDAY, JULY 17
BUELLTON PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.
At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton
For more info: cityofbuellton.com
SOLVANG DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE, 5 P.M.
At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang
For more info: cityofsolvang.com
WEDNESDAY, JULY 23
LOS ALAMOS COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT, 6 P.M.
At LACSD Board Room, 82 Saint Joseph St., Los Alamos
For more info: losalamoscsd.com
THURSDAY, JULY 24
BUELLTON CITY COUNCIL, 6 P.M.
At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton
For more info: cityofbuellton.com
MONDAY, JULY 28
SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL, 6:30 P.M.
At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang
For more info: cityofsolvang.com
WEDNESDAY, JULY 30
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION, 9 A.M. 123 East Anapamu Street, Room 17, Santa Barbara
For more info: countyofsb.org
MONDAY, AUG. 4
SOLVANG PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.
At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang
For more info: cityofsolvang.com
EVENTS
FRIDAY, JULY 18
MOVIE NIGHT AT DUNN SCHOOL, 6:30 P.M.
Get ready for a magical summer evening
CALENDAR
under the stars right here at Dunn School! We’re thrilled to open our campus for a fun-filled, FREE community movie night. It’s the perfect chance to relax, connect, and enjoy a family-friendly feature film (TBA) with your favorite people. FREE popcorn and hot chocolate are included!
Gates open at 6:30 p.m., movie starts at 7:30 p.m.
Just bring your coziest blanket or favorite lawn chairs and settle in for a fantastic night. Everyone is welcome — bring your family, friends, and neighbors!
At Dunn School Upper Campus, 2555 Highway 154, Los Olivos For more info: dunnschool.org
THURSDAY, JULY 17
HOLMES AND WATSON, 8 P.M.
(RUNS JULY 17-20 AND JULY 23-26)
Join Dr. Watson in a twisty, tantalizing mystery as he navigates a deadly guessing game to uncover the truth behind three men claiming to be Sherlock Holmes, in Jeffery Hatcher's gripping adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle's original tale, "Holmes and Watson."
This PCPA production has eight showings left, the last being July 26. Tickets start at $25.
At Solvang Festival Theater, 420 Second St., Solvang
For tickets and more info: solvangtheaterfest. org/show-details/holmes-and-watson
SATURDAY, JULY 19
PAPER SHREDDING EVENT, 7:30 A.M.
TO 1 P.M.
Marborg Industries will be hosting a paper-shredding event at its facility on Commerce Drive in Buellton.
Only paper will be accepted for shredding; no other materials will be accepted. Be sure to remove all items other than paper (and paper clips) from your boxes and bags. All other items will damage the shredder.
This is a drive-thru shredding event where paper will be shredded on-site. Please remain inside your vehicle when you arrive, and we will assist you.
Limit 10 banker size boxes per car. Rain or shine
At 97 Commerce Drive, Buellton
For more info: Contact Marborg Industries at (805) 963-1852 or email custservice@marborg.com
SATURDAY, JULY 26
BUELLTON BBQ BONANZA, 11
A.M. TO 2 P.M.
The City of Buellton is pleased to sponsor the 23rd annual Buellton BBQ Bonanza to thank its residents for their support in making our city a great place to live! The event is a wonderful chance to meet and eat with our families, friends, and neighbors. The main course, drinks,
and dessert will be provided by the city with lunch served at noon. Live music, games for children, water slides will be included, as well as booths hosted by local organizations and businesses.
At River View Park, 151 Sycamore Drive, Buellton
For more info: www.buelltonrec.com/contact
BRO-BBQ, 4 TO 7 P.M.
The BroBBQ is a fundraiser for the Santa Barbara County Women Winemakers & Culinarians Foundation, held in response to an earlier vegetarian barbecue prepared by the group's female chefs, some board members' menfolk get their chance with some "carnivorous deliciousness."
The barbecued features meats and veggies from the Bros, and sauces and spices from Anna Vocino’s Eat Happy Kitchen, dessert from The Bakery Farmstand and wine from Future Perfect and Seagrape. Tickets are $125 each.
At The Barn, 2625 Santa Barbara Ave., Los Olivos
For tickets and more info: womenwinemakersculinarians.betterworld.org/events/brobbq#tickets
ONGOING
TUESDAYS (THROUGH JULY 29)
YOGA IN THE GALLERIES, 9 A.M.
Nature heals, and so does yoga! In this nature-inspired yoga class at California Nature Art Museum, we unite gentle expressions of yoga postures with calm breathing, while weaving in mindful reflection on the awe and wonder of nature. This is a class suited for beginners and all levels of ability. The class is taught by Lori Shirran, who lives and teaches yoga on the Central Coast, bringing over 20 years of yoga teaching experience. This program series will be offered weekly on Tuesdays at 9 a.m. for a limited time, through July 29. Class fee for each session is $10 and advance registration is required. At California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Drive, Solvang
For tickets/more info: calnatureartmuseum. org/news/yoga-in-the-galleries-2025
TUESDAYS (THROUGH JULY 29)
STORYTIME AT SOLVANG LIBRARY, 10:30 A.M., TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS
Join us indoors on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.
Come to enjoy songs, stories, movement, and a warm welcome. Please make a reservation at
cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valley-library
At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang
For more info: Solvang Library (805) 688-4214
WEDNESDAYS
SOLVANG MUSIC IN THE PARK SERIES
The Solvang Chamber of Commerce offers Music in the Park, its free, annual summer concert series at Solvang Park. During the Wednesday concerts throughout the summer, you can bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets and baskets with food you’ve prepared, or enjoy a tasty meal from a Solvang restaurant nearby. July 16: The Rincons — The Rincons, who have also been known as The Dusty Jugz, are a local rock band. They have played at many local venues.
July 23: Out of the Blue — This band has been bringing classic rock 'n' roll to Santa Barbara and Ventura counties for about 10 years now, July 30: Knee Deep — This band has been bringing classic rock 'n' roll to Santa Barbara and Ventura counties for about 10 years now, from '60s, '70s, '80s & '90s and beyond. At Solvang Park, 1630 Mission Drive, Solvang For more info: solvangcc.com
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. 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
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. For info on these and other programs, go to buelltonrec.comton
