Santa Ynez Valley Star • September 5, 2023

Stephanie Pedersen to serve as 2023 Danish Maid

Danish Days, famously perched atop the draught horse-led Carlsberg Beer Wagon. He later became a member of the Danish Days Committee, and served on the Board of the Solvang Danish Days Foundation through the 2022 event weekend.

INSIDE

The arrival of this year's Solvang Danish Days also brings a new Danish Maid to preside over the event, and this year's honoree, Stephanie Pedersen, is no stranger to the annual celebration.

Stephanie, who was announced as the 2023 Maid in July, is a fourth-generation Solvang resident whose Danish roots can be traced on her paternal side back to Djursland and Egtved, Denmark. Stephanie’s parents, Jennifer and Bruce Pedersen, are both teachers at Solvang Middle School.

Stephanie’s family involvement with Solvang Danish Days stretches back more than 60 years to when her grandfather, Bo Pedersen, launched the Solvang Village Band and also handled the printing for Danish Days at Viking Press. Stephanie’s grandmother, Barbara Meisgeier Pedersen, cooked Danish Days æbelskiver for decades, passing that tradition down to Stephanie’s aunts, Janet and Raelynn, and then to Stephanie. Her father and his siblings — Janet, David, and Raelynn — all performed gymnastics during past Danish Days

under the direction of Viggo Tarnow, from the time that they were kindergarteners.

As a teen, Bruce, began to help with

Danish Days set-up and running the actual event. Bruce later became part of the Solvang Village Band which performs throughout town during

Stephanie experienced her first Danish Days celebration in 2006, when she was just four months old. Appointed as the 2023 Danish Maid, she follows in the honorable footsteps of her aunts, Lisa Larsen Pedersen, Danish Maid in 1977, and Janet Pedersen, Danish Maid in 1974.

“Even before I could read a calendar, I knew Danish Days was approaching when I would hear my dad practicing his trumpet, and I’d help him prepare the Carlsberg Beer Wagon for the big weekend,” Stephanie said.

Stephanie explained that some of her first memories of Danish Days were walking in the Friday night Candlelight Parade with her family and friends, and how that became a mark of another year passing and a time when she would reflect on what had changed since the last time she had walked that parade route.

Stephanie continued, “I was so in awe watching Saturday’s big parade and will always remember the day I was finally old enough to sit with the driver on the front of the Carlsberg Beer Wagon, and wave to the crowds lining the streets.”

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Community | Pg. 16 Solvang Danish Days preview and schedule

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

• Convicted murderer Paul Flores in fair condition after attack in prison

News Pg. 4

• The Hadsten Solvang ushers in a new chapter as part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection

Opinion Pg. 8

• LEE PITTS: American Eulogy Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . Pg. 12

• Experience a paranormal adventure with The Haunt Ghost Tours team

Sports Pg. 14

• Pirates football starts off season with rout of Cabrillo

Arts & Nonprofits Pg. 15

• Two appointed to Solvang Theaterfest Board of Directors

Community Pg. 18

• Zaca Mesa Winery helps promote local artisans with Maker's Faire Calendar . . . . . . . . . Pg. 23

• Government meetings and events

Santa Ynez High student's family has a rich history with Solvang's Danish Days celebration

Staff Report

Solvang Danish Days' 2023 Maid Stephanie Pedersen, 17, is a fourth-generation Solvang resident whose Danish roots can be traced on her paternal side back to Djursland and Egtved, Denmark. Photo by Mike Mesikep

CALIFORNIA

ment of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) he is eligible for parole in August of 2037.

Harold Mesick, who is now serving as Flores's attorney, told Paso Robles Press/ Atascadero News that Flores was airlifted to the hospital in critical condition. According to Mesick, Flores was cut on the neck during the attack. By Friday, Aug. 25, Flores was stable and brought back to the prison. CDCR has not stated specifics on the attack, which is currently being investigated by the prison's investigative services unit.

recognizes the importance of ensuring that students have access to safe and efficient transportation options. The Student Punch Pass comes at an affordable cost of just $10, providing 10 single (one-way) rides on SYVT's fixed routes.

The pass itself functions through a punch-card system. With every use, a designated section of the pass is "punched" or marked to indicate that a ride has been taken. This ensures clarity and transparency, helping both students and transportation personnel keep track of the remaining rides available on the pass.

Paul Flores in fair condition after attack in prison

After being attacked in prison and airlifted to a trauma center, Paul Flores has returned to the Pleasant Valley State Prison in Coalinga. He is reportedly expected to remain in the prison infirmary while he recovers from his injuries.

One week after being relocated to the Pleasant Valley State Prison, Flores was hospitalized after being attacked in prison. The 46-year-old was airlifted to a trauma center where he was treated for injuries after the attack on Wednesday, Aug. 23.

Flores was convicted last October for the murder of 19-year-old Cal Poly student Kristin Smart back in 1996. This March, he was sentenced to 25 years to life. Flores was convicted in Salinas at the Monterey County Courthouse after it was ruled he would not receive a fair trial in San Luis Obispo County.

According to the California Depart -

Flores was transferred to the Pleasant Valley State Prison and placed into isolation. A week later, he was entered into the general prison population and attacked shortly after.

Flores was originally scheduled to appear in court that Thursday, where it was expected he would officially request Mesick to represent him for the restitution phase of his case. Mesick represented Flores's father, Ruben Flores, during the murder trial. Ruben was ruled not guilty of assisting his son in hiding Smart's remains. Subsequently, due to the attack, Flores's hearing has been postponed to Sept. 28.

SOLVANG

Student discounts available on SYV Transit

Santa Ynez Valley Transit (SYVT) is offering a safe and affordable way to get your kids to school with discounted fare options for students.

As the new academic year begins, SYVT

Parents and caregivers can easily purchase the Student Punch Pass by visiting the SYVT office located at 595 Alamo Pintado Road, Suite C, in Solvang. To obtain the pass, they need to provide the student's name and school. Students are also encouraged to take advantage of this offer by presenting their valid student ID when purchasing the pass. Older students using the pass may be requested to present their student ID as they board the bus.

The one-way student fare provides a single ride on SYVT fixed routes. This fare is only available on the SYVT bus. Parents and caregivers can pay the student fare on behalf of their student if their student is with them. Older students can pay the student fare upon boarding by showing their valid student ID, while younger students can simply tell the driver which school they attend to obtain the discount.

Please contact SYVT at 805-688-5452 if you have any questions or would like additional information about how SYVT can assist students with travel planning.

SANTA YNEZ

Santa Ynez Chumash named collaborative manager of proposed national marine sanctuary

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians was named collaborative manager of the proposed Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary (CHNMS) Aug. 24 in a newly released draft management plan published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Under the plan, NOAA proposes the tribe work on a government-to-government basis with the U.S. and the State of California, in the first national marine sanctuary that was developed with meaningful tribal engagement from its inception.

“We appreciate the honoring of our Chumash maritime traditions and the ability of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians to participate in collaborative management of this proposed national marine sanctuary,” said Kenneth Kahn, tribal chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “We are proud to contribute our cultural and management practices towards protecting this shared resource. Designating this sanctuary, with our government as a strong collaborative partner, is the right thing to do and demonstrates a strong respect for the indigenous people of our country.”

Under the proposed designation and draft management plan, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and the State of California will work with NOAA to collaboratively manage the sanctuary through their roles on the Intergovernmental Policy Council (IPC). The IPC will help set broad objectives, provide timely advice and input on important research, resource protection and educational programs, coordinate the work of staff, and oversee the work of other volunteer boards. The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians also intends to participate as an active member of both the Sfanctuary Advisory Council, and

Solvang City Council approves Capital Improvement Program

Amendment to contract with consultant for wastewater project tabled to next meeting

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

The Solvang City Council met for its regular meeting on Monday, Aug. 28, and voted to approve an amended Capital Improvement Program, while tabling an amendment to the city's wastewater services consulting contract to a future meeting.

The council was at four members for this meeting due to the absence of Councilmember Claudia Orona.

To begin the discussion on the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), Public Works Director Rodger Olds explained that the CIP was approved by council at the June 26 meeting, but amendments had to be made to the program and must be approved.

"Included in the CIP were items that were only in the 10-year CIP, so anything that was on the previous year's CIP just fell off the map" Olds said. "We do a 10-year CIP to plan the future and map things out, but we have to be agile and add other projects, and that's why we're here."

Among the amendments, according to Olds, was one new item: ADA improvements to an old building that is being converted into a transit office. There were also "carry-over" projects, including generator projects at the Vets Hall and City Hall, a Municipal Facilities Masterplan, and improvement to the pickleball courts at Hans Christian Andersen Park.

It was the pickleball court improvement that seemed to elicit the most discussion. Olds said the city's funds from Proposition 68, which he estimated to be just under $100,000, would go to the pickleball courts, and he hoped to increase the general fund contribution to the project also.

Olds said one of the reasons the pickleball courts needed improvements was that the surface was failing.

"The problem is the courts were built out of concrete, as one would a patio," Olds said. "But this is a playcourt that needs no joints, and the surface was starting to crack where the joints were."

Old said they would probably need to resurface the courts, but that they might be able to build a third court if that was the case.

When it came time for council questions, Councilmember Dave Brown asked Olds whether they considered building the courts in a different location, saying there was mud covering the courts during the heavy rains earlier this year.

"With the erosion, and landslides and what else, why would you want to put it in the same place?" Brown said. "It seems like it 's going to add to your cost. If you're going to demo, maybe find another place in the park."

Olds answered that he wasn't aware there was mud on the courts, and said that the courts were required to be in the park, and he just wanted to keep the racquet sport facilities in the same area.

In public comments, two speakers came up to speak in favor of the pickleball courts, with one of them, Brad McVay, speaking on behalf of "several dozen" who play pickleball.

"These are the only courts in the Santa Ynez Valley," McVay said. "The courts in Solvang are mentioned in all the pickleball guides and we get players from all over. This is the fastest growing sport in the country, We encourage you to improve the CIP to include improvement of the HCA pickleball courts."

Mayor Pro Tem Elizabeth Orona moved to accept the CIP, with Brown seconding, and the motion passed 3-1, with Councilmember Robert Clarke opposed.

Earlier in the meeting, the council heard the item to approve a third amendment to the

agreement with Carollo Engineers Inc for the Wastewater Treatment Plant water quality project.

Carollo Engineers Inc was contracted in March 2022 as the consultant to assist the City with seeking possible grant opportunities for the Solvang Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) upgrades and that contract has had two amendments approved.

According to City Manager Randy Murphy, the Regional Water Quality Board (RWQB) requested a Time Schedule Compliance Plan (TSCP). Because the project was already in progress and there was a limited amount of time to prepare the plan, Carollo has assisted the city in developing the plan, meeting with the RWQCB, and submitting a draft plan to the RWQCB, in order to get a USDA grant application completed.

Since that was not part of the original contract, Murphy said the costs for providing these services by Carollo is estimated to be $106,270 for a new not-to-exceed overall amount of $308,760.

Orona said that the main problem, in her mind, was that it's not clear what the purpose of the TSCP is.

"Maybe we need a technical explanation, because the scope of work has no definition of what a TSCP is, what it looks like, or what technical requirements we need," she said.

During public comment, Solvang resident Denise El Amin, who spoke multiple times as an advocate for the Skytt Mesa area in which she lives, took the council to task for not knowing enough about the wastewater issue and spending more time on marketing and tourism issues.

"We've been out of compliance for years, and the laws change and will continue to change," she said.

Referring to a presentation earlier in the meeting from consultants Tom Jones and Associates

and Stiletto Marketing, El Amin continued, "You guys make us sit here for an hour listening to the marketing people, and they bring in more 'toilet flushers,' and you're out of compliance."

After El Amin spoke, Murphy disagreed with the contention that they are out of compliance.

"We are not out of compliance," he said. "They have a proposed set of regulations and we're doing our best to figure out how to comply with that."

Orona replied to Murphy by saying, "We're not out of compliance, but we are out of date, and we need better capacity."

After Orona said she just didn't know what the city would be getting with the $106,270, Brown suggested they revisit the issue with Carrolo Engineers present to consult with. Brown eventually moved to table the item to a later date with Carollo personnel there to answer questions, and Orona seconded.

The motion passed 3-1, with Mayor Mark Infanti voting no.

The City Council will next meet on Sept. 11 at 6:30 in Council Chambers.

Solvang Public Works Director Rodger Olds gives his presentation on the amended Capital Improvement Program at the Monday, Aug. 28, City Council meeting. Screenshot from video of meeting

The Hadsten Solvang ushers in a new chapter as part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection

Revitalized boutique hotel merges modern luxury with historical charm under the stewardship of the Chumash

On Aug. 22, The Hadsten Solvang, a boutique hotel in Solvang’s vibrant center, celebrated its eagerly awaited grand reopening. Acquired by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, the property has been comprehensively revamped and is set to become a standout member of Hilton’s prestigious Tapestry Collection.

Previously operating under the name Hadsten House, the hotel has undergone a considerate rebranding to become The Hadsten Solvang, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. This new identity honors the Hadsten railway in Denmark, resonating with the property’s historical roots. The updated branding is evident throughout the hotel, including a newly crafted logo that features two distinctive railroad spikes, paying tribute to its rich heritage.

The Tapestry Collection by Hilton is not just a group of hotels; it's a curated ensemble of upscale properties that prioritize individuality and memorable guest experiences. Each hotel in the collection is handpicked for its unique style and vibrant personality, offering travelers not just a stay but an invitation to dive deep into the local culture, adventures, and flavors that define the destination.

At The Hadsten Solvang, part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, guests will find that the commitment to individuality and experiential travel is taken to the next level. The hotel’s modern and trendy decor fuses effortlessly with its authentic, cultural undertones, creating an ambiance that is at once cool and deeply rooted in the Solvang area's historical charm. Here, guests are not merely staying in a room; they're embracing an experience that lets them author their travel story.

From the hotel’s culinary offerings to its state-of-the-art fitness and leisure amenities, every aspect of The Hadsten Solvang has been designed to make guests feel they

are part of something special. Be it savoring a crafted cocktail at The Boiler Room, a lounge that caters to sophisticated palates, or enjoying an energizing workout in a gym outfitted with Peloton stationary bikes, the hotel offers an array of choices that enrich the guest experience.

In addition to its compelling offerings and amenities, The Hadsten Solvang is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning loyalty program from Hilton. This means that members who book directly through Hilton.com, the Hilton Honors app, or any other official Hilton channel have access to an array of instant benefits, from digital check-in and room selection to free Wi-Fi and exclusive member rates. The program also features a price match guarantee and allows guests to redeem points using the Points Explorer tool, ensuring a seamless and rewarding travel experience.

“We are delighted to reopen as a unique property within Hilton’s upscale portfolio,” said John Elliott, CEO of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “The Hadsten Solvang, Tapestry Collection by

Hilton balances an updated contemporary feel while appreciating the design and historical elements of Solvang.”

The extensive renovations commenced in September 2021 and encompassed a comprehensive room and property remodel. Notable changes include transforming the hotel’s indoor swimming pool area, allowing space for The Yard, a vibrant and trendy, contemporary outdoor courtyard with lounge furniture, heaters, and games with a lively, friendly, and fun feel. Adjacent to The Yard is The Boiler Room, a bespoke lounge offering craft cocktails and various food options. With fitness lovers in mind, the hotel now offers a new fitness center complete with Peloton stationary bikes and other cutting-edge amenities.

Conveniently located at 1450 Mission Drive in Solvang, the 74-room hotel was originally built in 1972 and bought by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians in 2012. The tribe’s hospitality portfolio includes two newly remodeled AAA Four Diamond-rated hotels: Chumash Casino

Resort Hotel in Santa Ynez and Corque Hotel in Solvang. As the largest employer in the Santa Ynez Valley, the tribe employs more than 1,800 residents of Santa Barbara County.

The Hadsten Solvang Tapestry Collection by Hilton’s grand reopening marks an exciting new chapter in the history of Solvang’s hospitality landscape, blending contemporary touchpoints with a nod to the area’s vibrant and dynamic past. Guests can now immerse themselves in the warm embrace of The Hadsten Solvang, confident in the exceptional experience and unmatched hospitality offered by Tapestry Collection by Hilton. For more information, visit hilton.com/en/hotels/ smxhaup-the-hadsten-solvang.

About the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians:

Located in Santa Barbara County, California, the tribe was federally recognized in 1901. It is the only federally recognized Chumash tribe in the U.S. Operating as a self-governing sovereign nation; the tribe follows laws set forth in its tribal constitution.

The formerly named Hadsten House hotel in Solvang has reopened as the Hadsten Solvang. Contributed Photo

C.A.R.E.4Paws introduces new vehicle for pet care on the go

Local nonprofit holds ribboncutting event for mobile clinic at The Maker’s Son in Los Alamos

By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

Not even a 5.1 earthquake or the threat of an advancing hurricane could curb the enthusiasm of the large number of guests who attended the official ribbon-cutting event for C.A.R.E.4Paws’ newest addition, the nonprofit's 37-foot mobile clinic.

The event and fundraiser were held on Sunday, Aug. 20, at The Maker’s Son in Los Alamos. Guests had the opportunity to tour the new vehicle and learn about the organization’s mobile clinic program while enjoying appetizers, beer, and wine.

C.A.R.E.4Paws' mobile clinics provide the veterinary care needed for pets and their families who are unable to access these services unless they are brought directly to a family’s neighborhood, which is exactly what C.A.R.E. 4Paws’ Mobile Community Medicine & Spay/ Neuter Outreach program does in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.

C.A.R.E.4Paws provides critical, affordable wellness services in its mobile veterinary clinics, works to reduce pet overpopulation by offering free spay/neuter surgeries, keeps animals out of shelters, and improves quality of life for pet families in need. According to the organization's website, they also distribute two tons of pet food weekly through its Compassion Pet Assistance program; collaborate with

all local animal shelters, rescue groups, and pet service providers and dozens of human welfare agencies; support pets of domestic violence survivors and unsheltered community members; and promote compassion for animals through its Paws Up For Pets youth program and pet emergency training for first responders.

“We’re very excited about the launch of our 37-foot mobile clinic which is our third clinic.

This new unit will allow us to assist even more pet families in need in both San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties,” said Isabelle Gullo, executive director and co-founder of C.A.R.E.4Paws. “This clinic was made possible through generous donations and grants from the community and we are incredibly grateful for the support. There is a tremendous need for free and low-cost mobile pets wellness services on the Central Coast and thanks to our mobile clinic we are able to provide critical care for thousands of animals every year. In 2022, we helped 13,000 animals with the mobile clinic program and in 2023 we are on track to provide service for more than 15,000 animals.”

The Santa Barbara-based C.A.R.E.4Paws charges for its services on a sliding scale and comps services for those who are unable to afford anything. The nonprofit is able to provide this service thanks to a $120,000 grant Gullo received from PetSmart Charities. This grant is part of PetSmart Charities new $100 million grant program focusing on underserved communities.

For more information visit C.A.R.E.4Paws. org where you can find a list of all of their clinics and locations.

Isabelle Gullo, executive director and co-founder of C.A.R.E.4Paws (second from right, obscured) talks with guests seeing the nonprofits new mobile clinic that was unveiled in Los Alamos. Photo by Devyn Marseilles

Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office providing mutual aid to Maui

Lt. Jarrett Morris leverages expertise in ANDE Rapid DNA System to assist police amid fires

Last month, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office received a law enforcement mutual aid request from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, on behalf of the Maui Police Department, requesting that Sheriff’s Lt. Jarrett Morris be temporarily deployed to Maui to assist in the identification of victims in the disastrous Lahaina fire.

Morris traveled to Maui on Wednesday, Aug. 16, and has been part of a team from Cal OES at a temporary mortuary DNA labo -

ratory in Kahului. Morris was selected for this deployment based on his expertise with the ANDE Rapid DNA system and his previous experience in identifying the Conception dive-boat fire disaster victims in Santa Barbara County on Sept. 2, 2019.

Since his deployment, Morris has assisted in the positive identification of more than a dozen victims whose remains have been recovered. There are many people still missing, and the search of the fire area in Lahaina continues. Morris and his team are collaborating with local government, community, and spiritual leaders. Together, they are working diligently to educate these influential figures about rapid DNA technology. Their shared goal is to foster cooperation among Maui residents, enabling them to collectively address the critical issue of identifying missing immediate

family members. Through this united initiative, they aim to bring solace and resolution to families affected by these circumstances.

“We in the Sheriff’s Office are proud to assist the people of Maui during this difficult time by assigning Lieutenant Jarrett Morris to engage in the important work of identifying victims of the catastrophic fire that took so many lives and destroyed much of Lahaina," Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown said. "Santa Barbara County has been struck by many disasters in recent years. We stand with our brothers and sisters in the Maui Police Department and with all other first responders engaged in managing this terrible tragedy, and we are keeping the people of Maui in our prayers as they mourn their great losses and grapple with the recovery process.”

Staff Report

Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Lt. Jarrett Morris is shown with the ANDE Rapid DNA system machine he has used to help the Maui Police Department identify the victims of the Lahaina Fire in Hawaii. Photo Courtesy of the SB County Sheriff's Department

By Lee Pitts Columnist

Acommon theme that dominates the conversation of most people my age is that they are glad they'll be decomposing six feet under the grass and won't be around to live in the glorious future they created. My fellow senior citizens and I feel bad for the babies born today who, on average, already owe $13,425 in state debt and $78,089 in federal debt. I, on the other hand, wish I was going to be around to witness the carnage and to say, "I told you so."

I don't think most younger Americans

NEWS BRIEFS

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American Eulogy OPINION

fully grasp that they're sleepwalking into the fan blades of a giant green wind machine. As for the 31 trillion dollars they're already on the hook for, what do they care, just like their $200,000 in student debt, they have no intention of paying it back either. Who cares if the debt is 31 trillion or 130 trillion? If we need more money we'll just print more.

In their world young people today think they're all gonna work from home, or sitting at Starbucks, staring at their phone all day doing what they call "work" without a boss looking over their shoulder. Or they'll make a lucrative living being an "influencer" on YouTube, Twitter or Facebook.

We're all gonna live in online communities of strangers and when we're hungry our food will be delivered by DoorDash and Uber drivers and for everything else we need, we'll get it from Amazon and pay for it with Bitcoin. We won't worry about a steady paycheck because we'll all be getting reparations checks for something or other, so we'll just hang around and wait

the Indigenous Cultures Advisory Panel (ICAP), which advises the Sanctuary Advisory Council on cultural resource issues.

LOMPOC

Sheriff’s Office welcomes five new custody deputies

Santa Barbara County Undersheriff Craig Bonner poses with the graduates of the Allan Hancock CORE Custody Deputy Academy and new employees of the Sher -

for our inheritance when our parents die so we can inherit their house.

All the pollution will disappear because all our factories will be shuttered and onethird of the traffic will be parked at Tesla charging stations. We'll live in a world of renewable energy and zero emissions, and when we need more batteries, we'll just buy them at COSTCO.

The letters "USA" won't stand for the United States of America any more but "Unlimited Sprawl Area" because everyone will live in the office buildings made vacant when everyone started working from home. President Biden's 30/30 dream will be realized when at least 30 percent of U.S. lands will be conserved by 2030 so busloads of Japanese tourists with cameras dangling from their necks will be running from packs of wolves, marauding bears and hungry mountain lions in our national parks.

Getting rid of all fossil fuels because of climate change will bring families closer together as we burn furniture and three generations snuggle together to share

iff's Department. Photo by SB County Sheriff's Office

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office welcomed five new custody deputies upon their graduation from the Allan Hancock CORE Custody Deputy Academy. On Friday, Aug. 25, Undersheriff Craig Bonner gave the keynote speech for the CORE Custody Academy Class 14 that included two independent recruits and five new Sheriff’s Office team members including Custody Deputies Harai Leon Aguilar, Jose Angelez, Camryn Durnin, Jeremiah Navarro, and Michael Omojoyegbe. During his keynote speech, Bonner encouraged the graduates to “Look for the good in people, and respect yourself and other people. Nobody expects you to be perfect, but we must learn from our mistakes, and we must always strive to do the right thing.”

The class of seven recruits completed 260 hours of instruction. Some of the instruction included emergency planning in a custody facility, report writing, ethics, investigation procedures, classification of inmates, contraband detection, arrest and control, physical training, and Direct Supervision training.

Durnin earned Class Valedictorian, Navarro was presented the Santa Maria Elks Lodge Leadership Award, and Aguilar was presented the Ron Battles Award from the Deputy Sheriff’s Association.

If you are interested in career in law enforcement or know someone who is, please visit the sheriff's website at SBSheriff. org to apply.

body heat. It will be just like camping!

The future we've created will be a kinder, gentler and smarter world as everyone will be female and boys will be boys no longer. Instead they'll grow their own boobs, have their plumbing rearranged and have their appendage removed. (Ouch!) As for making babies, well, maybe we didn't do a very good job of explaining the birds and the bees to our kids. As for our birthrate dipping below "sustainable" levels, well, again that's what the open borders are for and why our Congress looks like an LGBTQ+ parade.

If, and when, there is a World War III, it will all be conducted by soldiers at keyboards with joysticks, drinking 5-hour energy drinks, just like playing a violent video game. As for this great experiment, we called America, we'll finally come to the realization that the grand experiment just didn't work and we've been the big bully on the block far too long.

The only advice I have for our inheritors is to bone up on your Chinese, North Korean, and Russian.

SANTA MARIA

Group to hold ‘Understanding Medicare’ virtual presentation

Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) will sponsor a free presentation for people interested in better understanding Medicare benefits. Understanding Medicare information will be presented on Thursday, Sept. 7, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., and on Tuesday, Oct. 3, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

“HICAP is offering this presentation to help beneficiaries and caregivers better understand this comprehensive health care program”, said HICAP Program Manager Julie Posada.

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 (800) 434-0222, hicap@ centralcoastseniors.org or www.CentralCoastSeniors.org.

Santa Ynez High School names Craig Gladstone head baseball coach

Pirates’ new leader spent the 2023 season as pitching coach at nearby Dunn School

Staff Report

The baseball team at Santa Ynez High School welcomes Craig Gladstone as its new head coach. On April 15, the Board of Trustees for the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District officially confirmed his appointment.

Gladstone replaces long-time Pirates baseball coach Warren Dickey, who stepped down at the end of last season.

Prior to this, Gladstone served as the pitching coach for the Dunn School’s baseball team during the 2022-2023 season. The team, known as the Earwigs, qualified for the CIF Southern Section playoffs last season for the first time in half a decade. Under Gladstone’s guidance, the pitching staff achieved an impressive 2.51 ERA for the 2023 season.

“Craig has great passion and love for coaching baseball,” said SYHS Athletic Director Josh McClurg. “He is well known in the local baseball community and brings a zest and enthusiasm for coaching that I feel will greatly benefit our student athletes.”

For his part, Gladstone is eager to get started.

"As soon as I heard the news of Coach Dickey stepping down, I knew I wanted the job right away," he said. "I learned so much in my year at Dunn with the head coach, Nick Blankenship. We were such a good team together, and I was sad to have left him, but head coaching is where my heart is.

"When Josh McClurg called me to let me know I got the job, I automatically lit up with joy jumping up and down like a 3-year-old. I was ecstatic to say the least."

Gladstone is looking to put his own stamp on the baseball program.

"In my opinion the program needs rebuilding from the ground up," he said. "From freshman coming in all the way to the seniors. We will be one program, one family, and have the same philosophy. It’s all about the kids, and they will not only grow as players, but enjoy being on the field as well."

Gladstone attended Agoura High School, where he was a first team all-league pitcher his senior year. He continued his playing career at Santa Barbara City College, where he was named second team all conference pitcher. Gladstone has also been a huge part of Santa Ynez Valley Pony Baseball, coaching on that level since 2014 and serving as a member of the Pony Baseball board from 2018-23. He has stepped down from those positions to give his focus to coaching the Pirates next spring.

Coach Craig Gladstone poses with his Santa Ynez Valley PONY team in Solvang. After coaching PONY baseball and spending a year as pitching coach at the Dunn School, Gladstone will be the new head baseball coach at Santa Ynez High. Contributed Photo

Pirates girls golf team starts season by hosting tournament

with Gigi Gunasayan of Arroyo Grande earning second place with a 72. Gunasayan actually tied with another golfer, but took second thanks to a second cardoff, having the lowest score on the last six holes.

Girls Golf

The Santa Ynez girls golf team kicked off its 2023 season by hosting the 23rd Annual Pirate Invitational Aug. 21 at the River Course at The Alisal.

The tournament happened just as there was a threat of Tropical Storm Hilary coming into the area, but SYHS golf coach Sara Ovadia said things went smoothly.

"We had windy weather, but were lucky to not get any precipitation from the hurricane/tropical storm," Ovadia said.

According to the coach, the format was a two-person best ball, both players hole out every hole, and the best of the two counts toward the team score. The tourney awarded the low two individuals along with the four lowest teams of two.

Kiley Reisner of Simi Valley High won the individual title with a 2-under-par 70,

Reisner also teamed with Aiden McCleneghan as Simi Valley A to win the team title with a 67.

Gunasayan teamed with Maya London as Arroyo Grande A, and they earned second place. The two tied with Lily Huyhn and Sailor Graham (Oak Park A) at 68, but won the cardoff with a 32 over the back nine, compared to the Oak Park duo's 34. Drew Simmons and Kaylynn Killion (Garces Memorial B) finished fourth at 72.

For Santa Ynez, Mackenzie Phelan and Katherine Becerra (A) shot an 82, Addison West and Sierra Freedman (B) shot a 97,

and Savannah Hundley and Kacy Caplan shot a 120.

On Aug. 29, the Pirates played in the first Mountain League tournament of the year at Rancho Maria Golf Club in Santa Maria. The Pirates placed fifth of eight teams with a team score of 529. Phelan was the low scorer for the Pirates with an 84, while Freedman carded a 99. Arroyo Grande's Gunasayan was the medalist of the tournament with a 75, while the Eagles took team honors with a 426. Santa Ynez will be heading to La Purisima Golf Course in Lompoc today (Sept. 5) for the second Mountain League tournament.

Girls Tennis

The Pirates opened their league season on Aug. 29 with a 5-4 loss to visiting Lompoc.

Santa Ynez won two of three in doubles as No. 2 team Paige Halme and Kate Mazza won 6-4, 6-4, and No. 3 Danielle Hyland and Grace Sugich won 6-0, 6-3. In singles, No. 4 Morea Naretto won 6-2, 6-3, and No. 6 Halme took the win in a tiebreaker 2-6, 6-1 (10-4).

The Pirates played at San Luis Obispo on Thursday, Aug. 31, and have a match at Templeton today (Sept. 5), and return for a home match against on Tuesday, Sept. 12.

Girls water polo

The Santa Ynez girls water polo team romped in its first league match Aug. 29, beating host Santa Maria 20-3.

Cierra Cloud, Haylee Fox, and Jordan Gann led the way for the Pirates with four goals each, and Adriana Bilac added three goals. Cloud also had three steals and eight blocks.

After playing at Lompoc last Thursday, Aug. 31, the Pirates play their first home game today (Sept. 5) against Atascadero.

Experience a paranormal adventure with The Haunt Ghost Tours team SPOTLIGHT

Ghost hunter Wes Leslie to begin tours in Solvang on Sept. 7, running Thursday through Sunday

By Pamela Dozois

Have you ever been curious about the afterlife? Do you believe in ghosts? Would you like to have a paranormal experience or would you just like to have a fun night out in Solvang ghost hunting?

The Haunt Ghost Tours will officially open on Sept. 7 and will run tours every Thursday through Sunday at 8 p.m. Accompanied by an experienced storyteller and ghost hunter, as featured on the Travel Channel show "Ghost Adventures" with Zak Bagans, experience a real interactive paranormal investigation that reveals different types of hauntings.

Wes Leslie, along with Solvang native, Cheyenne Bennett, will lead the group on a walking tour through some of the oldest and most haunted streets of Solvang, where residual ghost impressions are felt and poltergeists heard. Using ghost-hunting tools, the tour attempts to contact spirits and invite apparitions.

Leslie and his best friend, Jordon Jo, started their walking tour company in San Francisco after graduating from college.

“We initially called ourselves Wild San Francisco Tours,” said Leslie. “We ran tours about San Francisco’s social movements, history, neighborhoods, plus food tours and of course, ghost tours. When the [COVID] pandemic hit, we put the company on pause and pivoted to virtual team-building experiences for corporate clients. As the world opened back up, we wanted to run a more focused company, and decided to go all-in with our favorite tours, relaunching as The Haunt Ghost Tours.”

During the pandemic, Leslie said he decided to move to Los Angeles to pursue his musical career as a singer and producer of pop R&B music. He also started The Haunt Ghost Tours in his neighborhood in LA’s Chinatown, and began exploring interesting towns in Southern and Central California.

“I found two great areas that spoke to me — Temecula with a cool wild west feel and wooden facades and Solvang with its immersive architecture and distinct Danish story,” said Leslie. “I fell in love with Solvang because it’s the perfect town for a ghost tour: it’s walkable, safe, and it has an immersive quality with the

architecture, which helps transport you out of the everyday, heightens your senses of what’s possible, and engages your sense of wonder. I’m inspired by its history, going back to the founding fathers who pulled off an improbable feat in developing Solvang into a successful Danish colony, and I love getting to share that story. But, there is also an ominous side that is more palpable at night, when the town is quiet and the ghosts seem to emerge.”

Leslie said that he majored in creative writing and Spanish in college and that he didn’t grow up loving horror movies or true crime. It was an incident, he explained, that happened to him while living in New Orleans that propelled his curiosity into the paranormal and fired his passion for ghost hunting.

“My business partner Jordon and I lived in New Orleans for a period, and that’s where I started experiencing the paranormal firsthand," he said. "I belonged to an old gymnasium in the French Quarter, and would often be the last one in the cavernous building at night, swimming by myself. One night around closing time, I caught a glimpse of a ghostly swimmer in a vintage swimsuit passing me by. Frightened, I spun to get a closer look, and he was gone. I started seeing him more regularly, and went down a rabbit hole of researching the history of hauntings around bodies of water,

Contributing Writer

Wes Leslie of the Haunt Ghost Tours teaches a member of the group how to use dowsing rods on one of his tours in San Francisco's Chinatown. Contributed Photos

learning how water is considered a portal in and out of the spirit realm (that’s why many famous ghost stories take place around lakes, or on boats).

"I consider the ghosts I encountered to be what we call a residual impression, which is sort of a hologram that replays on a loop, fading over time.”

Leslie credited that experience as the "catalyst" for researching hauntings in San Francisco and starting his tour there.

"Since then, I have become more spiritually attuned, and have picked up on more ghostly energies that I wouldn’t have before," he said. "Plus, our tour attempts to conjure spiritual energy with a number of tactics, including a summoning spell written for us by a medium.”

Leslie explained that he spent a lot of time in Solvang researching and creating the tour over a number of trips, walking the streets, and interviewing long-time locals, including descendants of the town’s founders, plus business owners and employees, to hear their stories of hauntings, which he was able to incorporate into the tour.

“The historic core of Solvang butts up against the Old Mission Santa Inés, which is widely considered to be a haunted site,” continued Leslie. “The mass unmarked grave of the Chumash people casts a somber glow, as does knowing the church’s significance as the site of the Chumash revolt of 1824. It’s not hard to imagine that residual energies still linger in the area.”

“Birkholm’s Bakery is another interest-

ing place, with employees regularly hearing and seeing ghostly activity," he continued.

"Third-generation owner Thomas is convinced that it’s his grandfather, Carl, who in the afterlife continues to watch over the bakery that he built. We have videos of employees talking about their experiences, which we share on the tour.”

Leslie is intrigued by the concept of cursed location, like a building where businesses can’t thrive, or tenants move out citing a “bad feeling” in the space.

“Solvang has one building that seems to fit the description, and it’s a location where we do a bit of paranormal investigating on the tour, and often use dowsing rods to attempt to contact whatever spirit may be haunting it,” he said.

Leslie feels that he’s been very lucky to be so well-received in Solvang, receiving a great deal of support, encouragement, and a sense of excitement from everyone he's spoken with.

“Business owners are eager to share their stories, and Tracy Farhad at the Chamber of Commerce has introduced me to lots of old-timers who have been generous in sharing their stories with me — folks with last names that appear in the earliest days of Solvang’s history,” stated Leslie. “Their shared stories, especially from the town's founding families, have enriched our tours, making them more authentic and rooted in local lore.”

Leslie ensures that the experience of The Haunt Ghost Tours remains exciting and fresh for both first-timers and repeat visitors.

“Every tour is a little bit different — I never know where we’ll pick up activity on our EMF meters, which dictates where we investigate further with other ghost-hunting tools," Leslie explained. “We’re sort of like a safari for the paranormal — I can’t guarantee what spirits we’ll encounter, or where they’ll be, but we can use tools and techniques designed to lure them out to communicate with us. Some nights, the air is thick with paranormal activity, while others are calmer. But each tour is an opportunity to savor great stories, understand Solvang, and experience ghost hunting tools firsthand.”

According to Leslie, one thing that sets his tours apart is the use of ghost-hunting tools.

"Everyone on the tour is given an EMF meter to carry, which is the standard tool employed by all ghost hunters doing paranormal investigations,” he explained. “We monitor these throughout the tour to see where we pick up on energy, and then investigate further. Tools we might pull out include dowsing rods and a Spirit Box, which scans the white noise on FM radio for ghostly voices.”

The Haunt Ghost Tours are perfect for families, couples, and children. The Haunt combines authentic ghost hunting with engrossing storytelling, making it an unforgettable journey into Solvang's haunted past. The tour departs near the Visitor Information Center. Spots fill up fast, so book online now to secure your place in this otherworldly experience.

For more information or to book a tour, visit thehauntghosttours.com/tours/solvang/

On Wes Leslie's The Haunt Ghost Tours, everyone on the tour is given an EMF meter to carry, which is the standard tool employed by all ghost hunters doing paranormal investigations.

Pirates football starts off season with a bang

Pritchard, DeForest, and Beard star as SYHS rolls over Cabrillo 54-12

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

The Santa Ynez High football team got its season off to a great start in its "Week 0" game on Aug. 18, routing Cabrillo 54-12 in a non-league game at Huyck Stadium in Lompoc.

Sophomore Jude Pritchard, in his first game as starting quarterback, shook off an interception on the game's first play from scrimmage and finished up with 179 yards passing and three touchdowns. The signal caller also ran for a score, which meant he had a hand in half of the Pirates' eight touchdowns on the night.

Meanwhile, senior running back Dallas DeForest, who's expected to be the focal point of the running game this year, gained 123 yards on just 11 carries and scored two TDs, while Daulton Beard had two touchdown receptions.

The Pirates opened the scoring at the 6:40 mark when Pritchard ran it in from the 1-yard line to cap a drive and give SYHS a 7-0 lead.

Santa Ynez wouldn't wait long to increase the lead, getting the ball back when Max Andrade picked off a pass that orginally bounced off teammate Nicky Vargas. DeForest finished off the ensuing drive with a 2-yard touchdown run.

Cabrillo quarterback Gage Mattis put the Conquistadores on the board with a 2-yard scoring run to make it 14-6, but the Pirates broke it open with a 26-point second quarter.

During that quarter, Pritchard hit Beard, the Pirates' top receiver, with two scoring passes, the second a 43-yarder with 55 seconds left that gave SYHS a 40-12 halftime lead. Beard finished the game with 132 receiving yards on four catches.

The quarter also saw touchdowns from DeForest — a 15-yard run — and a 67yard kickoff return by Bryson Welby right after Cabrillo scored its second, and last, touchdown of the night.

In the second half, some of which was

played under a running clock, the Pirates got touchdowns from Nicky Vacca (a 12yard pass from Pritchard) and Peter Zahoudanis (a 20-yard interception return) to close out the scoring.

Pirates head coach Josh McClurg was happy with the win, and also for the chance to give some playing time for some of the reserves, due to the lopsided score.

"This is the biggest squad I ever had," he said of an SYHS roster that totals 54 players this year, "and it'll be tough to get everybody in, but we were able to get some playing time for people.

"Of course, the thing is, I get some players with what I like to call 'sad panda faces,' when they're upset about being on the sidelines, and I talked to them about it at halftime. I told them if your individual goal is more important than the team goal, then you're not a team player. I think tonight those players saw what it took to get on the field and know what we expect of them."

And despite the success of the season opener, McClurg admitted the team had some things to work on.

"There's some things to shore up, minor things, attention to detail, communicate on defense, on-the-field communication." he said. "We also had some stupid penalties — like excessive celebration — that we can't have. If it's an effort penalty, we can overlook it, but those dumb penalties, we can't have that."

In reflecting on his team's success, McClurg also had praise for Cabrillo, a team that suited up just 21 players for the game and also was playing under a new coach, Dave Fleming, who had been hired just a month earlier.

"Hats off to Cabrillo," the coach said. "Their offense was very tough to defend when you haven't seen it before. When they get this thing going, they'll have an offense that'll be even tougher to defend."

The Pirates had a bye on Aug. 25, and traveled to Morro Bay on Sept. 1 (result not available at press time). SYHS will have its home opener this Friday, Sept. 8, against Santa Maria, and then on Thursday, Sept. 14, will go up to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to play host Mission Prep in the Mountain League opener. Game time for both is 7 p.m.

Nicky Vacca (2) of Santa Ynez stops a Cabrillo ballcarrier on Aug. 18 during the Pirates' 54-12 season-opening win.

Santa Ynez High's Nicky Vacca (2) celebrates with teammate Diego Pulido after his second-half touchdown on Aug. 18. The Pirates beat Cabrillo 54-12 in the season opener for both teams. Photo by Mike Chaldu/SYVS

Santa Ynez High's Isaiah Kahn (60), Toby Stevens (4), and Tristen Frausto (35) team up to stop a Cabrillo ballcarrier during the Pirates' 54-12 season-opening win on Aug. 18.

ARTS & NONPROFITS

Two appointed to Solvang Theaterfest Board of Directors

Carla Mead of Buellton and Jill Lucas of Solvang are the newest members of the board

Staff Report

Carla Mead of Buellton and Jill Lucas of Solvang have joined the Solvang Theaterfest Board of Directors.

Mead is a self-employed math tutor for students from first grade through high school. She is also a tasting room associate for Rideau Winery in Solvang and is a pilates instructor in Orcutt. She volunteers for the Santa Ynez Humane Society and for the Kitty of Angels in Los Angeles.

Prior to her time in the Santa Ynez Valley, Mead was a mathematics coach for Carnegie Learning and a middle school math teacher/basketball coach at Westside Neighborhood School in Los Angeles.

Lucas and her husband Louis are co-owners of Lucas & Lewellen Winery in Solvang. She and her daughters were

involved in NCL, a nonprofit organization for mothers and daughters, which allowed them to volunteer at the Friendship House, Atterdag Village, and Therapeutic Riding Center. She also worked for several

years as administrative assistant for a historic hotel, playing the lead role in event planning.

Solvang Theaterfest is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that owns and operates

Solvang Festival Theater. It is managed by an all-volunteer Board of Directors.

For more information, contact Solvang Theaterfest Executive Director Scott Coe at exec.director@solvangtheaterfest.org.

Carla Mead of Buellton (left) and Jill Lucas of Solvang have joined the Solvang Theaterfest Board of Directors.

Solvang Danish Days set to return for 86th time

Staff Report

California’s premier Danish heritage festival, Solvang Danish Days (www. SolvangDanishDays.org), returns with a three-day event weekend lineup Friday through Sunday, September 15-17. The 2023 Solvang Danish Days theme — “Kom Sammen” (“Come Together”) — will be celebrated during this year’s event, which honors the 1911 establishment of Solvang by Danish-Americans.

The 2023 celebration of Solvang Danish Days will once again offer attendees a total Danish immersion experience while helping to preserve Solvang’s authentic Danish heritage. Danish Days guests looking to “live like Vikings” throughout the event weekend have the opportunity to purchase a “Dane For A Day” VIP ticket bundle ($100, only available online), while those looking to gain quicker entrance to the Saturday and/or Sunday Æbleskiver Breakfasts ($10, $12 with sau-

sage) may purchase online tickets for the breakfast, in advance, at solvangdanishdays. org.

Since Solvang Danish Days’ modest beginnings in 1936 when the festival debuted to commemorate the village’s 25th anniversary, the event has set out to celebrate Solvang’s Danish heritage with authentic food, music, dancing, parades, live entertainment, and family activities.

Solvang Danish Days has since surpassed 85 annual celebrations, continuing to mesh “old country charm and customs” with a more modern “way of life” through its varied activities which blend present-day Danish-American practices with traditional notions, while still exemplifying everything Danish.

The weekend’s varied offerings include activities for all ages ranging from fan-favorite food events surrounding Æbleskiver, the iconic Danish pastry rounds; to a Danish-style beer and wine garden serving Danish import, Carlsberg beer, alongside local brews, wines and festival eats; to an axe throwing arena; interactive history lessons at the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art; story time sessions with Hans Christian Andersen; a Viking encampment in Solvang Park; to a guided Solvang Food & Photo Tour; and, an Old World artisanal crafts marketplace.

Solvang Danish Days boasts plentiful free entertainment with three parades, Danish folk dancers and musicians performing at locations all over town, plus afternoons and evenings of free, live concerts on the Midgaard Pavilion Stage in the middle of downtown Solvang, adjacent to the Viking Beer & Wine Garden. Solvang Danish Days also aims to please the next generation of Danish Days fans with family-friendly pastimes, including the popular, and shaded, LEGO activity tent in Solvang Park.

Returning to this year's event is the twoday Solvang Danish Days LEGO Building Competition. Onlookers may watch the creative process as three of California’s top brick builders compete against each other with their own, downsized takes on Solvang Danish Days Parade floats. Builders will be located throughout the village of Solvang; competition runs Saturday and Sunday.

Also returning to Solvang Danish Days is competitive eater, Raina Huang (@rainaiscrazy; youtube.com/@RainaHuang), who will appear on stage during the Sunday Aebleskiver Eating Contest in an attempt to break her own personal, Danish Days record set in 2018, of 36 aebleskiver eaten in just five minutes — all hands-free.

Since the 1960s, Solvang Danish Days

has been presided over by each year’s Danish Maid, a tradition that remains an honorable accomplishment for each of the young locals appointed by the Danish Days Foundation Board members to become a specific year’s Danish Maid. The 2023 Danish Maid is 17-year-old Stephanie Pedersen, a fourth-generation Solvang resident. Solvang’s Danish Maids serve as goodwill ambassadors during their year of service, making public appearances to promote Solvang and the city’s spirit of Danish hospitality.

Solvang Danish Days 2023 is sponsored in part by the City of Solvang, Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, Montecito Bank & Trust, Visit the Santa Ynez Valley, WM (Waste Management), CHOMP restaurant, Mortensen’s Danish Bakery, Toyota of Lompoc, Valley Fresh Market, Nielsen Building Materials, and The Copenhagen House.

The preliminary 2023 Solvang Danish Days event weekend schedule is available on page XX if this issue online, and at www. SolvangDanishDays.org.

More information about Solvang Danish Days, including a brief history of the event, parade applications and complete contact information, is also available at www.SolvangDanishDays.org. Solvang Danish Days is on Facebook and Instagram at facebook.com/ SolvangDanishDays and @DanishDays.

Organizers expecting return of competitive eater Raina Huang, LEGO Building Competition, and Viking Encampment

Whether it's attending the parade, traditional Danish dancing, munching on aebleskiver, looking at LEGOS, axe throwing, or just living it up in viking horns, there's something for everyone at Solvang Danish Days. Photos by Deborah Chadsey

2023 SOLVANG DANISH DAYS SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2023

4 TO 7 P.M.: FREE CONCERT — Catch local band, The Rincons (aka Dusty Jugz), performing live on the Midgaard Pavilion Stage in Parking Lot 2, in downtown Solvang, adjacent to the Danish Days Viking Beer & Wine Garden. All ages welcome; must be 21 years or older to enter Viking Beer & Wine Garden. Concert is free and open to the public.

4 TO 9 P.M.: AXE THROWING — An axe throwing arena hosted by the pros at SLO AXE CO. Public invited to give axe throwing a try; must be 13 years of age or older to enjoy. Ages 13-17 need to have a parent or guardian present. Closed-toe shoes required. Axe throwing continues on Saturday.

4 TO 9 P.M.: VIKING BEER & WINE

GARDEN — Outdoor beer and wine garden; supports the Solvang Danish Days Foundation. Viking Beer & Wine Garden continues on Saturday. (Guests must be 21 years of age or older to purchase alcoholic beverages.)

7:30 P.M.: TORCHLIGHT PARADE — Free for participants, all ages welcome, candles will be provided. Route begins at Alisal Road and Laurel Avenue, strolling south down Alisal Road and ending at the Midgaard Pavilion Stage (in Parking Lot 2, downtown Solvang).

8 P.M.: OPENING CEREMONIES— in Solvang Park introducing the 2023 Danish Maid, Stephanie Pedersen. Velkommen Street Dance follows with Danish dancers performing to live music.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023

8:30 A.M. TO 12:30 P.M.: ÆBLESKIVER BREAKFAST on Copenhagen Drive between First and Second streets, $10 per person (with Danish sausage, $12). Tickets available online in advance (solvangdanishdays.com, or at the event entrance).

9 A.M.: OLD WORLD ARTISANS

MARKETPLACE — Demonstrations and artisan hand-crafted items in an open-air Nordic shopping district of finely crafted items, on First Street.

10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.: KID’S KORNER featuring the popular LEGO® tent, in Solvang Park.

10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.: VIKING ENCAMPMENT — The Ravens of Odin (Norse Educational Group) host a Viking Encampment in Solvang Park.

10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.: SOLVANG DANISH DAYS LEGO BUILDING COMPETITION — Three of California’s top brick builders compete against each other with their own, downsized takes on Solvang Danish Days Parade floats. Builders will be located throughout the village of Solvang. (Building continues Sunday morning.)

10 A.M. TO 5 P.M.: LIVING HISTORY DAYS AT ELVERHØJ MUSEUM OF HISTORY & ART (1624 Elverhoy Way; www.Elverhoj.org). Exhibits come to life during this free, interactive history lesson for all ages. Craftspeople, artisans, and storytellers demonstrate their skills and entertain visitors.

11:30 A.M.: FREE ÆBLESKIVER EATING CONTEST — Contest will be held in the Midgaard Pavilion in Parking Lot 2, downtown Solvang. All ages welcome for this five-minute competition.

12 TO 4 P.M.: GUIDED SOLVANG FOOD & PHOTO TOUR — Led by Santa Barbara’s ‘Eat This, Shoot That!‘ Tour includes 8-9 tastings and foodie locations, bites, and sips. Details available at eatthisshootthat.com/ tours/solvang (Advance ticket purchase is required.)

12 TO 9 P.M.: VIKING BEER & WINE GARDEN — Outdoor beer and wine garden. Must be 21 or over to buy alcohol.

2:30 P.M.: DANISH DAYS PARADE

— Includes the Solvang Village Band atop the Carlsberg Beer Wagon, floats, equestrians, Village Dancers and more. Line-up starts at 1:30 p.m. on First Street, between Molle Way and Oak Street; parade begins by turning east on Copenhagen Drive, then north on Alisal Road, west on Mission Drive, south on Fourth Place, east on Copenhagen, south on Second Street, finishes at corner of Oak Street near Solvang City Hall. NO CHARGE to participate in the parade; applications are available at www.SolvangDanishDays.org/contact-us.

3 TO 9 P.M.: FREE CONCERTS featuring live performances on the Midgaard Pavilion Stage in Parking Lot 2, in downtown Solvang, concerts are free and open to the public. The Lowdown Dudes perform 3 to 6 p.m.; The Molly Ringwald Project performs 6 to 9 p.m.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2023

10:30 A.M. AND 1 P.M.: RANDEL MCGEE AS HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN — Young and old alike will enjoy listening to hours of tales from Denmark's favorite author. Saturday readings: 10:30 a.m. at the Hans Christian Andersen Museum (at The Book Loft), 1 p.m. at the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art.

11 A.M. TO 9 P.M.: AXE THROWING

– Brought to you by SLO Axe Co.

8:30 A.M. TO 12:30 P.M.: ÆBLESKIVER BREAKFAST on Copenhagen Drive between First and Second streets, $10.00 per person (with Danish sausage, $12.00). Advance tickets available for sale at solvang-danish-days-2023.eventbrite.com.

9 A.M.: OLD WORLD ARTISANS MARKETPLACE — Demonstrations and artisan hand-crafted items; an open-air Nordic shopping district of finely crafted items, on First Street.

10 A.M. TO 12 P.M.: SOLVANG DANISH DAYS LEGO BUILDING COMPETITION — Three of California’s top LEGO builders compete against each other with their own, downsized takes on Solvang Danish Days Parade floats. Judging of the builds begins at 1:45 p.m. in Solvang Park, followed by a 2:30 p.m. winner announcement for the best build, which will occur during the Solvang Danish Days Closing Ceremony.

10 A.M. TO 2 P.M.: KID’S KORNER featuring the popular LEGO® tent, in Solvang Park.

10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.: VIKING ENCAMPMENT — At Solvang Park

10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.: LIVING HISTORY DAYS AT ELVERHØJ MUSEUM OF HISTORY & ART (1624 Elverhoy Way; www.Elverhoj.org). Snap a selfie at the Viking photo stop stocked with costumes and props.

11 A.M. AND 1 P.M.: RANDEL MCGEE AS HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN — Sunday readings: 11 a.m. at the Hans Christian Andersen Museum (at The Book Loft), 1 p.m. at the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art.

11:30 A.M.: FREE ÆBLESKIVER EATING CONTEST — Contest will be held in the Midgaard Pavilion in Parking Lot 2, downtown Solvang, All ages welcome for this five-minute competition. Returning to this year's Sunday Contest, competitive eater and eating challenge queen Raina Huang.

2 P.M.: CHILDREN’S PARADE — Parade begins at Atterdag Square (corner of Atterdag Road and Copenhagen Drive) and meanders down Copenhagen to Solvang Park. All children and families are welcome to join this event; no charge to participate, and costumes are encouraged.

2:30 P.M.: DANISH DAYS CLOSING CEREMONY IN SOLVANG PARK — The 2023 Danish Days Maid closes the event.

Randel McGee, as Hans Christian Andersen, poses with the Hanrahan family at the 2022 Danish Days. Young and old alike will enjoy listening to hours of tales from Denmark's favorite author, portrayed by McGee, twice on Saturday and twice on Sunday. Contributed Photo

Zaca Mesa Winery helps promote local artisans

Inaugural

By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

Zaca Mesa Winery held its inaugural Zaca Mesa Maker’s Faire on Saturday, Aug. 19, offering local artists and craft persons the opportunity to sell their wares free of charge.

Twenty-seven kiosks wound their way from the View Room around the terrace to the back lawn, displaying a variety of goods, from jewelry to edible flowers, art and delicious confections to tooth gems, and local honey to "Sea-stainable" pet food, to name but a few of the wide variety of vendors who took part in the Faire. Vis-

itors from near and far enjoyed the sunny afternoon, sipping wine and shopping for early Christmas gifts.

Hand-crafted pizzas were available for purchase by Fire Brick SYV, and singer/ songwriter Jineanne Coderra entertained guests with her eclectic style of R&B, pop, and jazz music.

“It’s a lovely day to be out doing this and everyone seems to be in great spirits,” said Jim Curriden, displaying an array of rocks, fossils, jewelry, belt buckles, pendants, and wine stops all “Inspired By Geology” (www. InsiredByGeology.com).

Delia Osguera, a shopper at Curriden’s table said, “I love to look at rocks. I saw something about this event happening on Facebook this morning and we just decided to come and see. I’m a big rock collector. I even have a piece of the Berlin Wall. I love all kinds of rocks.”

Sea-Stainable Pet Food’s owner Jesse

Crouse-Tell has been making 100 percent human-grade gourmet treats for cats and dogs that are freeze-dried and dehydrated for the past six years. You can find her products on Instagram @SeastainablePetFood.

“It’s a beautiful day and a beautiful place,” said Crouse-Tell. “This is my first time here at Zaca Mesa and hopefully we will be here again next year.”

Pete Ljepava, owner of The Mustache Pete’s, has been in the woodworking business for five years. He’s carried on the tradition of his father, making beard products to artisan wood cutting boards to painting. He deeply values the unique beauty and craftsmanship that can be felt when holding something that has been made by hand.

“I used to work for Apple but I decided I needed to do something with my hands and woodworking has opened up a whole new world for me,” said Ljepava. You can find

his stuff on Instagram @TheMustachePete.

Alison Griffin of Eat Your Flowers had recently done a floral wedding cake for Zaca Mesa and heard about the faire via their events coordinator.

“I’m so happy to have been thought of to take part in their event,” Griffin said.

If you want to add little glamor to your teeth, Tanya Gold, RDH, a tooth gem specialist of Stone & Ivory is the one to see. Tooth Gems are the latest addition to non-permanent body art. With a non-invasive procedure, gems and charms are applied to teeth to give your smile that next level sparkle. Go to her website at www. Stoneandivory.com.

“I have been adding glamor to teeth with the addition of tiny Swarovski crystals to a tooth or two,” said Gold of her work. “Artists coming together under one roof is so inspiring. I truly appreciate the beauty they bring into this world.”

Those who attended the Zaca Mesa Maker's Faire on Aug. 19 encountered local artists and craft persons selling their wares and live entertainment. Photos by Devyn Marseilles

STAR LIFESTYLE

Exploring the origin of Labor Day

resolution at a Central Labor Union meeting calling for a street parade of workers on the first Monday in September. According to the New Jersey Historical Society, it was Matthew Maguire, secretary and one of the leaders of the Central Labor Union, who sent out announcements and invitations to the parade and even rode in the carriage leading the parade.

ise of America is that with hard work you can build a life for yourself and your family. These days, that promise does not feel quite as assured as it has in the past.

Can you believe it’s September? If you stop for a moment and take a look, you’ll notice that the days are growing shorter, and even though our days are warm — OK, hot — the evenings have a dash of coolness to them that wasn’t there just a few weeks ago. The early sunrises of summer are gone, and fall lurks just around the corner.

September (Septem) was the seventh month of the ancient Roman calendar. Before Julius Caesar and Siogenes reformed the calendar, the Roman year originally began in March. September was the seventh month and the origin of the name September. Caesar’s calendar reform changed September into the ninth month, but through the ages, the old name remained, revealing just how much we humans are creatures of habit.

Monday, Sept. 4, is Labor Day and, for most of us, the last hoorah for this summer. It is a somewhat misunderstood and underappreciated holiday. When I was a youngster, I was too concerned that Labor Day meant that the school year was about to start to care about the meaning or even the name of the holiday. Why is it called Labor Day?

Well, Monday is the day set aside to honor the American worker. As a holiday, Labor Day, is just a bit over 120 years old. I’ll bet many of you may be a bit hazy about how it even became an American holiday. Would you be surprised to learn that this holiday originated in Canada?

Labor Day actually grew out of railroad labor disputes in Canada and the EightHour Movement of the 19th century. Both groups advocated for eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest. In the 1870s, Canada’s Parliament passed the Trade Union Act, which legalized and protected labor unions in Canada and led to an annual labor celebration in Canada.

The men who receive most of the credit for the origin of Labor Day in America are Peter J. McGuire and Matthew Maguire. They not only had similar-sounding names, both were active unionists of Irish descent who lived in New Jersey and also campaigned for an eight-hour workday. Peter McGuire is often credited for coming up with the idea of Labor Day, while Matt Maguire is often credited for executing the idea.

In 1880, Peter McGuire attended a Labor Day festival in Toronto. Inspired by the Canadian celebration, Peter introduced a

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But it doesn’t really matter whose idea it was. What is important to remember is on that Monday in 1882, 20,000 workers paraded up Broadway carrying banners that read “Labor Creates All Wealth,” and “Eight Hours for Work; Eight hours for Rest; Eight Hours for Recreation!” But, the parade was not a demonstration. It was a celebration. After the parade, there were picnics and fireworks that evening. Labor Day was an idea that captured the interest of the nation, spreading from coast to coast. Many states legislated their own Labor Day holiday years before it became a federal holiday.

In 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed a law designating the first Monday in September as Labor Day nationwide. Since 1894, both the United States and Canada have celebrated their Labor Day holidays on the same day.

Labor Day differs from our other holidays of the year. Many holidays are connected with religious observances or commemorating battles or a significant person in history. Labor Day is devoted to and honors all workers — blue collar, white collar, and no collar.

Even though the American workforce has changed dramatically since the industrial revolution, many of us still work more hours and take fewer vacations than our counterparts in other nations. We all desire a good standard of living. Part of the prom-

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Take a moment to reflect on the many American workers who came before us; to build our railways, roads, infrastructure, and more. The lifeblood of America has always been its workforce, the people. We should never forget that it has been American labor that helped create the highest standard of living and the greatest production capacity the world has ever known and has helped bring us closer to the realization of our ideals of democracy.

Today, there are pundits that would have you believe that this is no longer true, but they underestimate America. Imagination and innovation have been the foundation of American industry and have allowed it to evolve as conditions change and even develop entirely new businesses that were unimagined a few years ago.

Stop and think for a moment; it is not unusual to be impressed by the sight of the architectural landscape of a modern city, or a magnificent bridge, or the technical wonder of a jetliner in flight. But how often do you think about the hardworking people who built these and all of the supporting infrastructure around us?

Labor Day, admittedly, is not the sexiest holiday: There are no fireworks, turkeys to cook, or chocolate-covered bunnies to bite the ears off. Just one Monday off for all the ordinary men and women trying to make ends meet, raising 2.3 kids, trying to save for the down payment of a home, all while paying off their student debt. Thank you to all hard working Americans for building our country and for keeping the wheels turning and the lights on.

HOLIDAY HISTORY

by John Copeland

Peter J. McGuire Matthew Maguire

Neck, shoulder pain could lead to more serious issues

Take a period of extreme rest until your chi is balanced.)

Acomplaint I commonly come across in patients is pain in the neck and shoulder area. Most attribute it to sleeping in a strange position, which could very well be a possibility. But there are other situations that lend to pain in this area of which people should be more cognizant.

Aside from some type of accident, common causes of neck and shoulder pain are: the flu (usually straight down the back of the neck), hypertension (with pain usually down the sides of the neck, behind the ear area), and holding one’s neck in one position for too long (computer work, watching television, driving, holding the phone, even musicians holding their head in an awkward position). Poor posture also makes the eyes tire easily, creates heart function and respiratory stress, and back pain. Neck and shoulder pain that is indeed caused by improper sleeping position can be helped by staying away from pillows that are either too hard or too soft.

Other causes of pain can be due to the location of the patient. Sometimes, people who live in damp areas by the sea

or windy areas see stagnated circulation. It is important for these people to travel to places with opposite climates than where they are currently living, for example, the mountains, desert, etc. When there, make some time to exercise your muscles and joints to restore circulation to these areas. Do note that chronic neck pain is a sign that you may be prone to stroke. Sharp pain in the area behind your ear and underneath the skull in that region is very dangerous. It means that your head is experiencing a lot of pressure. If this is compounded with a high blood pressure condition, chance

of stroke is even higher. If you experience sharp stabbing pain in this area, do not hesitate; call emergency immediately and see a doctor as soon as possible. If you are having a stroke, try lightly stabbing and bleeding the area of pain gently with a clean needle. This will alleviate pressure in this area, and thus save you from brain cell damage, but do call 911 first. It is always better to be safe than sorry. (It may be of note to add that pain or differences you see in the body that are only happening on one side of your body may be a sign of pre-stroke. Don’t ignore these little signs.

At-home treatments for neck and shoulder pain are simple. Rest your muscles. If you do hold one position throughout the day, be certain to exercise the neck in the opposite position to help balance the muscles. Stretching and exercising the neck and shoulder muscles daily is also very beneficial. Stretching, massage, and heat to the area are also very helpful tips. Pointing a hairdryer at the area of heat is an easy way of delivering some quick and easy warmth to the area of pain as well. Also, keep your hair dry. Damp hair that falls over this area is another common cause of pain.

It is important not to ignore pain of any variety. Try your best to find the cause. If you have exhausted all of the physical reasons for pain and home cures, then a visit to your acupuncturist would be wise. A lifestyle change that includes constitutional foods, acupuncture, and herbs may be necessary. Internal reasons for neck and shoulder area pain are usually attributed to a small intestine issue, though pain in the left shoulder blade area is linked to the heart, and right shoulder blade pain to the liver.

Remember, it is always best to catch a problem in its early stages before it robs you of your quality of life. Being mindful of your body’s ebb and flow and being proactive in its treatment will save you from disease (and medical bills!) in the long run.

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

By Dr. Hyun K. Lee

DANISH MAID

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Stephanie’s first few years of participation in the Solvang Danish Days Children’s Parade saw her seated in a little wagon. As she grew, she transitioned to riding her tricycle in that Sunday parade and throwing candy to the onlookers.

“It was so exciting choosing the candy to buy and I still have all of my participant ribbons from those parades," she said. "Now, I am old enough to join in the tradition of my aunts, cousins, and grandmother by working the æbelskiver breakfasts while listening to the stories that the other women share of past Danish Days.”

“When I reflect on my roots and connection to Solvang, I think back to the first Danish immigrants who arrived in America. I can only imagine the feeling of leaving behind your homeland and everything you have ever known to move to somewhere completely foreign, trusting in the hope that a better life awaits,” Stephanie continued. “Living in a small Danish community in a big, new country could have been lonely and isolating. But they came to this land to lead the best life that they could, and I believe they succeeded. I am so fortunate to grow up in a place where I am surrounded by my family, history, and culture, serving as part of a community that celebrates being Danish while simultaneously moving forward in the U.S. My family's stories become my story, and their past becomes my future.”

As with many Danish Maid dresses throughout the history of the event, Solvang local Roberta Skidmore designed and crafted this year’s Danish Maid dress, as she did with nearly all of Stephanie’s past Danish Days costumes. Stephanie’s 2023 Danish Maid dress incorporates textiles which were handmade by her paternal great-grandmother, Sara Petersen Pedersen. Fabric doilies became part of her hat and shawl, intricate handkerchiefs finish off the dress sleeves, and part of a hand-embroidered monogram cloth lines the edges of Stephanie’s apron.

“I felt so special helping in the design of this dress and choosing the fabrics for it … it connects my heritage and Danish Days past to Danish Days 2023," Stephanie said. "It has always been a dream of mine to be Danish Days Maid, and I feel like I am living a fairytale now that my dream has come true.”

Now 17 years old, Stephanie attended preschool at Solvang’s Bethania Lutheran Church, moving on to Solvang Elementary and Solvang Middle School. She is currently a senior at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, pursuing her passion for the theater.

Stephanie has been involved in theater since she was just four years old and since her freshman year in high school, she has acted in all of her school’s Theater Group plays. She has also been involved in workshops and productions with Arts Outreach, Missoula Theatre Group, and PCPA. Stephanie is the president of her school’s Film Club, as well as a member of the Journalism Club, GSA, Student Senate, and Future Farmers of America.

In the past year, Stephanie volunteered as a cabin leader at Outdoor School for the Solvang

School fifth-graders, where she discovered that she loves working with children and “helping to create memories that will last a lifetime.”

“The connection that we feel during Danish Days isn’t limited by language, age, culture, or anything else,” Stephanie said. “Everybody in town is part of a whole — a whole that comes together to experience the beauty of our Danish culture. Danish Days is a time of unity for Solvang and the people who visit.”

Stephanie concluded, “After visitors experience Danish Days, I’ve heard them say that

they can't wait to visit Solvang, again. There is no other place I would rather have been raised than here in Solvang, and there is no other celebration that I love more than Danish Days. I am grateful and honored to be Danish Days Maid 2023 and can’t think of a better way to share my Danish pride with our community, and with visitors from around the world.”

Stephanie Pedersen is set to preside over this year’s 86th Solvang Danish Days (www.SolvangDanishDays.org), Friday through Sunday, September 15-17.

This photo collage illustrates Stephanie Pedersen's involvement with the Solvang Danish Days event throughout her young life. Contributed Photos

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

THURSDAY, SEPT. 7

BUELLTON PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

Solvang Tourism Advisory Committee, 3:30

p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

MONDAY, SEPT. 11

SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL, 6:30

P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, SEPT. 12

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

At Betteravia Government Center, 511 Lakeside Pkwy, Santa Maria

For more info: countyofsb.org

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

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 13

LOS OLIVOS COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT, 6 P.M.

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

For more info: www.losolivoscsd.com

THURSDAY, SEPT. 14

BUELLTON CITY COUNCIL, 6 P.M.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

TUESDAY, SEPT. 19

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

At Betteravia Government Center, 511 Lakeside Pkwy, Santa Maria

For more info: countyofsb.org

EVENTS

FRIDAY, SEPT. 8

For tickets and more info: carsandcowboys. com

TUESDAY, SEPT. 19

AN EVENING WITH BRIAN REGAN, 7:30 P.M.

RACHAEL SAGE ALBUM RELEASE

SHOW, 8 TO 11:30 P.M.

Since founding her own label MPress Records two decades ago, NYC-based alt-pop artist Rachael Sage has steadily released a slew of vibrant, dynamic albums described by Goldmine Magazine as "mesmerizing ... thoughtful, pensive and flush with an emotional flourish, all carefully and adeptly executed." Her new album release is "The Other Side." General admission tickets are $10. At Lost Chord Guitars, 1576 Copenhagen Drive, Solvang

For more info: lostchordguitars.com

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, SEPT. 15-17

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS

The 2023 Solvang Danish Days theme –“Kom Sammen” (“Come Together” in English) – will be celebrated during this year’s event, which honors the 1911 establishment of Solvang by Danish-Americans. The 2023 edition of Solvang Danish Days marks the 86th return of the beloved, annual cultural affair.

Danish Days Preview and schedule is on Page XX of this issue

In downtown Solvang

For tickets and more info: www.solvangdanishdays.org

SATURDAY, SEPT. 16

CARS & COWBOYS EXTRAVAGANZA, 1 TO 5 P.M.

Join us for the second annual Cars & Cowboys Extravaganza, a benefit fundraiser for Santa Ynez Valley Community Outreach and our local Meals on Wheels program!

Taking place at the beautiful Red River Ranch in Los Olivos, the Cars & Cowboys Extravaganza features an exclusively curated collection of cars to explore, live entertainment, and an exciting live auction. All tickets also include delicious food from the area’s finest chefs and a wide array of fine wine, beer, and spirits to enjoy throughout the event.

At Red River Ranch, 3260 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos

Critics, fans, and fellow comedians agree: Brian Regan is one of the most respected comedians in the country with Vanity Fair calling Brian "The funniest stand-up alive," and Entertainment Weekly calling him, "Your favorite comedian's favorite comedian." Having built his 30-plus year career on the strength of his material alone, Brian's nonstop theater tour continuously fills the most beautiful venues across North America, visiting close to 100 cities each year. Presented by Solvang Theaterfest and Solvang Rotary

At Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang

For tickets and more info: solvangtheaterfest.org

ONGOING

SUNDAYS SOLVANG THEATERFEST CONCERTS IN THE GARDEN, 3 TO 5 P.M.

SEPT. 10 (Rescheduled from Aug. 20): Yamila Guerra is a latin music performer. Salsa's roots reach back to Cuba and Guerra is honoring that heritage. She lives, breathes, and sweats the Afro-Cuban rhythms that ignite the heart. She has her audiences following the clave like moths to the flame.

At Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang

For tickets and info: solvangtheaterfest.org

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 www.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

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