Santa Ynez Valley Star • March 20, 2023

Happy Endings O ers New Beginning for Mistreated Horses

By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

Happy Endings Animal Rescue Sanctuary was founded in 2007 by C.C. Beaudette-Wellman and is an all-volunteer organization. It is dedicated to providing rescue for abused and neglected horses in the Santa Ynez Valley. ey o er refuge, rehabilitation, sanctuary, public education, and an equine-based therapeutic program for at-risk youth.

In 2020 Happy Endings rescue program expanded its services to include horses in the community who were su ering during the pandemic due to COVID-related hardships.

“ anks to the generous donations of Jacobsen Hay and Feed, we were able to feed 13 Belgian horses who would have otherwise not have been su ciently fed,” said Beaudette-Wellman.

In 2021 Happy Endings received generous grants from a few di erent foundations, which allowed them to help feed 44 horses belonging to 40 di erent individuals, approximately 80 percent of whom were seniors.

“We also received 120 bales of hay from Jacobsen and 55 bales from private individuals,” added Beaudette-Wellman. “Farmers Warehouse donated 80 bags of equine senior feed. roughout the year, we teamed up with Care For Paws to distribute animal feed at the Santa Ines Mission alongside People Helping People who distributed food for those in need.”

In 2022, with much less fund-

ing, explained Beaudette-Wellman, Happy Endings still fed 19 local horses belonging to 12 local individuals.

“We received a couple of grants and used our private donations to match those funds,” she added.

“In 2023 we have obtained some funding and are targeting seniors in need who are struggling to support themselves in the face of steep in ation,” continued Beau-

El Rancho

dette-Wellman. “For those living on xed incomes, the increased cost of everything is creating extreme hardships, so we are here to eliminate some of that stress by helping to feed horses in those families.”

In order to ensure recipients of their program are truly in need, Happy Endings conducts on-site visits, and checks personal and veterinary references. ey also con-

C.C. Beaudette-Wellman is shown spreading some love with one of her many rescued horses at the Happy Endings Animal Rescue Sanctuary.

Photo by Devyn Marseilles

BUELLTON

NEWS BRIEFS

101, in the southbound lanes, and attempted to stop it. e driver again entered the opposing lanes, and the pursuit was terminated. CHP successfully disabled the vehicle with a spike strip on highway 101 near Las Varas Canyon, and after a short foot pursuit, the rst suspect, 27-year-old Nathaniel Santiago Reyes of El Monte, was taken into custody at 5:28 a.m.

e second suspect, 32-year-old Bryan Arciniega of Los Angeles, was successfully tracked by a Sheri ’s K9 unit to his hiding place in a palm tree and apprehended at 6:30 a.m. Deputies recovered two stolen catalytic converters from the suspects' vehicles, identi ed the vehicles they were stolen from, and are not looking for any additional victims associated with this incident.

Deputies Arrest Catalytic Converter ieves

On Sunday, March 5, at approximately 4:58 a.m., Sheri deputies, along with a Sheri K-9 unit and California Highway Patrol (CHP), apprehended two suspected catalytic converter thieves in the 500-block of Sertoma Way in Buellton.

e deputies were responding to a report of thefts of catalytic converters in progress when they received information that the suspects were seen eeing in a Fiat. e deputies later spotted a vehicle matching that description near McDonald’s in Buellton. When they attempted to stop the vehicle, the suspects ed and the driver drove southbound in the northbound lanes of Highway 101. In the interest of public safety, the deputies discontinued their pursuit of the vehicle and shared the suspect and vehicle description with CHP. CHP located the vehicle further south on the

Reyes was booked at the Main Jail for felony vandalism, attempt to commit grand theft, possession of burglary tools, possession of stolen property, conspiracy, obstructing a peace o cer (misdemeanor), and possession of a controlled substance. He is being held on an increased bail of $75,000.

Arciniega was booked at the Main Jail for felony reckless evasion, misdemeanor reckless driving, felony vandalism, attempt to commit grand theft, possession of burglary tools, possession of stolen property, conspiracy, and obstructing a peace o cer (misdemeanor). Reyes is being held on an enhanced bail of $150,000.

Santa Ynez Valley Airport Honors

Local Heroes with New Name and Sign: Kunkle Field

e Santa Ynez Valley Airport has unveiled a new airport sign to pay tribute to

two exceptional individuals who have played a signi cant role in the development and growth of the local aviation community. Going forward, the airport will be known as Santa Ynez Valley Airport/Kunkle Field, in honor of James K. Kunkle and his son, James W. Kunkle.

James K. Kunkle, a distinguished WWII P-38 pilot, recently celebrated his 100th birthday and is recognized for his exception-

al service to his country. His son, James W. Kunkle, played a vital role in the success of the airport, serving as the president of the Airport Authority for several years. He was a ectionately known as “Jimmy” by many of the airport locals, but unfortunately, he passed away on April 16, 2022.

e new airport sign, featuring the old rotating beacon, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of these two local heroes

who have worked tirelessly to advance the aviation scene in the Santa Ynez Valley.

SOLVANG

Most of Los Padres National Forest reopens to the public

Los Padres National Forest o cials have reopened most of the areas that were previously closed due to public health and safety concerns following severe winter storms that caused signi cant damage across the Forest. Four of Los Padres’ ve ranger districts were closed under a Special Closure Order since Jan. 13 to allow for a comprehensive damage assessment.

However, Forest o cials warn that the upcoming storms forecasted over the next two weeks could cause further damage, potentially requiring additional closures. As these areas reopen, the public is strongly encouraged to exercise caution when entering areas of the Forest that are now open for hiking and camping and to closely monitor weather forecasts.

A new Forest order is now in place, which keeps severely compromised roads, trails, campgrounds, and day-use sites closed to the public while Forest engineers, partner groups, volunteers, and contractors work on repairs as funding becomes available. Road crews and resources from other national forests in California are assisting with road clearing and maintenance projects to reopen additional areas once they have been repaired.

Under the new order, all Wilderness Areas are open for public use, but extensively damaged Wilderness trails will remain closed until repairs can be made. Seven of the nine Santa Barbara front country trails have reopened, along with popular campgrounds such as Plaskett Creek and Arroyo Seco on the Monterey Ranger District, Cerro Alto on the Santa Lucia Ranger District, and the Lower Santa Ynez Recreation Area up to First Crossing.

However, River Road from First Crossing to Red Rock Day Use Area will remain closed until road reconstruction is complete. ree Ojai Ranger District front country trails have reopened – the Pratt, Gridley and Cozy Dell.

Los Padres Forest Supervisor Chris Stubbs said, “ is has been an extraordinary challenge for Forest Service employees and partner groups, as well as for the public. I ask for your patience and understanding as we continue what will likely be a long-term e ort to restore and reopen as many of these areas as we responsibly can.”

Forest personnel are coordinating with city, county, state, and federal partners to prioritize, plan, and implement the storm damage response and recovery. e Los Padres Forest Association and Ventana Wilderness Alliance, among others, have provided critical support in assessing damaged areas and leading repair e orts.

For a complete list of closed roads, trails, campgrounds, and day-use sites, visit Los Padres National Forest’s website at fs.usda. gov/lpnf.

Blanchard Named to Emmanuel College Dean’s List

Cora Blanchard, a resident of Solvang, has achieved a spot on Emmanuel College’s Dean’s List for the Fall 2022 semester. is recognition is given to Emmanuel students who have attained a grade point average of 3.5 or higher for a 16-credit semester.

Emmanuel College is a co-educational, residential institution located in the heart of Boston’s educational, scienti c, cultural, and medical communities. With a 17-acre campus, the College enrolls over 2,000 undergraduate and graduate students, providing them with numerous opportunities to broaden their perspectives through rigorous coursework, internships, and career opportunities both in Boston and beyond. Students also bene t from collaborations

with distinguished faculty and participation in a vibrant campus community.

Emmanuel College o ers more than 70 programs across various elds, including the sciences, liberal arts, business, nursing, and education. ese programs foster lively discussions and meaningful learning experiences that align with the College’s Catholic educational mission of providing an ethical and relevant 21st-century education that develops the whole person.

Olivia Horton Named to Dean’s List at Biola University

Olivia Horton, a History major from Solvang, CA, has been named to Biola University’s Dean’s List for academic excellence. is recognition is bestowed upon approximately 1,700 students who earned a GPA of 3.6 or higher while enrolled in 12 or more credits and whose cumulative GPA is at least 3.2 during fall 2022.

According to Dr. Tamara Anderson, Associate Provost of Academic E ectiveness and Administration, “Inclusion in Biola University’s Dean’s List is reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional performance in their academic studies. is honor signi es hard work, engagement, and investment in scholarship. ese attributes are the building blocks of continued success, not only in the classroom but in the workplace and in the student’s personal lives. We celebrate these students and their achievements, looking forward to their future accomplishments.”

Biola University, located in the heart of Southern California, is a nationally ranked Christian university. Recently recognized as one of America’s best colleges, it earned a spot in the top tier of the “best national universities” category of U.S. News and World Report’s Best Colleges 2023 rankings. Founded in 1908, Biola is committed to the mission of biblically centered education, scholarship, and service, equipping men and women in mind

and character to impact the world for the Lord Jesus Christ. With more than 6,000 students at its Southern California campus and around the world, Biola’s nine schools offer more than 150 academic programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

SANTA MARIA

Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival seeking artists of all ages to participate in their annual celebration

If you’re a chalk artist, applications are now open for a new area at the Strawberry Festival where you can bring strawberries to life right in front of festival-goers’ eyes. You’ll be provided with a 5’x5’ cement square in front of the Convention Center and a box of professional chalk. The art piece must be pre-approved and strawberry-themed, and applications are due by March 31. To encourage children to participate, the Fairpark will provide chalk and a “Kid’s Canvas” area, free with Festival admission.

For students in Northern Santa Barbara County, there is the opportunity to compete in the Strawberry Coloring Contest. The contest is divided into grade levels (1st-3rd, 4th-6th, and 7th-8th). Entries will be judged based on originality, artistic composition, and relevant content. The winning student in each category will receive four admission passes to the Strawberry Festival, a $25 gift card, and the winning classroom teachers will receive a $150 gift card for school supplies. Coloring Contest entries are due by April 14th and should be submitted to the Fairpark Administration building.

The Strawberry Festival will be held from April 28-30, 2023 at the Santa Maria Fairpark. For more information on these events, please visit our website at santamariafairpark.com.

Paul Flores Sentenced to 25 Years to Life for Murder of Kristin Smart

Smart family presents impact statements leading up to sentencing

By Camille Devaul Contributing Writer

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — e man who murdered 19-year-old Cal Poly student Kristin Smart in 1996 has been sentenced to 25 years to life in state prison.

On Friday, March 10, Monterey County Superior Court Presiding Judge Jennifer O’Keefe sentenced Paul Flores, 46, to serve 25 years to life in state prison after a jury convicted him last October of Kristin’s murder. As part of his sentencing, Paul will have to register as a sex o ender for the rest of his life.

Kristin Smart was a Cal Poly freshman when she was reported missing in May 1996. She was last seen walking away from an o -campus party on Crandall Way with Paul. A 25-year investigation ensued, resulting in the 2021 arrest of Paul and his father, Ruben Flores, 81. In October 2022, Ruben was found not guilty of accessory after the fact. Ruben was accused of helping his son hide Kristin’s remains. However, Paul was found guilty and convicted.

“Our criminal and victim justice system has nally delivered justice for Kristin Smart, for the Smart family, and for our San Luis Obispo County community,” said District Attorney Dan Dow on the day of Paul’s conviction. “We thank the Smart family and our community for the tremendous trust and patience they placed in the investigation and prosecution of this terrible crime. We recognize the jury for their focused attention to the evidence and the Sheri ’s O ce for their tireless e ort in building this case. Today [March 10], justice delayed is not justice denied.”

Prior to Paul’s nal sentencing, the court heard a motion from his defense lawyer Robert Sanger to seek a new trial, dismissal of charges, and acquittal. According to reports, Sanger argued that witnesses were not truthful in their testimonies.

Both motions were denied by Judge O’Keefe. While the morning’s motions were not lmed like the rest of the trial, Judge O’Keefe approved one pool camera to record the sentencing. KSBY News operated as the pool camera.

SLO County Deputy District Attorney

Chris Peuvrelle referred to Paul as a “true psychopath,” requesting him tov receive the maximum sentencing. A video of Kristin throughout her life was shown, followed by impact statements from her family.

Kristin’s father, Stan Smart, began by describing the strain her murder left on his remaining children and his marriage.

“He and his family have continued to hide her remains and deny our family the opportunity to bring her home for an appropriate funeral,” said Stan referring to Paul and his family. “ ey have no remorse for taking our daughter’s life.”

Stan was followed by Kristin’s brother, Matt; Matt’s wife, Lisa; Kristin’s cousin, Eric; her childhood friend, Ann-Marie; and Kristin’s sister, Lindsey, and her husband. Her mother, Denise, spoke last.

Following the impact statements, Judge O’Keefe spoke directly to Paul telling him, “You have been a cancer to society.”

In a press release following the sentencing, the SLO County District Attorney’s O ce described the sentencing as a “result of a tremendous collaborative e ort of more than a dozen local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies over the span of 25 years, but most importantly, the perseverance of the Smart family.”

e case was prosecuted by SLO County Deputy District Attorney Christopher Peuvrelle along with Assistant Chief Investigator for the SLO County District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation James “J.T.” Camp, and Senior Detective with the SLO County Sheri ’s O ce Clint Cole.

“After nearly 27 years of unspeakable anguish, the Smart family has nally seen their daughter’s killer sentenced. eir strength and determination serve as an inspiration to us all,” said Peuvrelle in the same press release. “ e prosecution team is grateful for the support of the entire San Luis Obispo community during the case. e community stood together, never gave up, and supported us to see that justice was done. We hope that victims everywhere know that there are people in the Justice System who will stand up to make sure their voices are heard.”

e District Attorney’s o ce thanked the Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine Pacioni and her team for providing physical and technical support throughout the trial, which was held at the Salinas Valley Courthouse in Monterey County. e trial was moved to Salinas after San Luis Obispo County Judge Craig van Rooyen ruled the father and son would not receive a fair trial

in SLO County.

SLO County Sheri Ian Parkinson released a statement regarding Paul’s sentencing, “I agree with the sentence of 25-years-to-life handed down today against Paul Flores for the murder of Kristin Smart. It was a long time coming, but it is a decision that is right and just. Our thoughts right now are with the Smart family. Today is not about us and what we did, but about them and what they do now. How they move forward. We want to remind the community this case is not over yet. And it won’t be over until Kristin has been returned to her family.”

e trial began on July 18, just over a year after the father and son’s arrest. roughout the trial, jurors heard from witnesses, including former Cal Poly students who were with Kristin and Paul at the party on Crandall Way the night she went missing.

Two Jane Does from Los Angeles County testi ed in the trial, accusing Paul of raping them. eir testimonies have been deemed an integral part in the prosecution’s case against Paul.

While Kristin’s remains have not been found, she was legally declared dead in 2002. Her remains have yet to be located despite now 26 years of searching.

Cal Poly student Kristin Smart was 19 years old when she went missing in 1996. Her remains have yet to be found. Contributed Photo

Paul Flores, shown above during the Kristin Smart murder trial in Salinas last July, was found guilty of murder in October 2022 and sentenced in March. Photo by Daniel Dreifuss/MC Weekly

We’re on this path together.

For 59 years, residents have relied on Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital for excellent health care.

Natalie Guerrero named January Student of the Month by SYV Elks Lodge

To sustain the strength of this valued community resource, consider donating to a charitable gift annuity and receive payments for life at fixed rates.

Following your lifetime, the balance of your annuity will come to Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital as philanthropic support and continue Cottage Health’s legacy of excellence, integrity, and compassion.

Your support benefits Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital’s important programs:

• Patient care

• Tele-stroke

• Imaging and diagnostic upgrades

• Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation

• Where the need is greatest

For a complimentary, personalized illustration of how your gift annuity might work, call or email Cottage’s Office of Planned Giving at 805-879-8987, or email Carla Long at clong@sbch.org or June Martin at j2martin@sbch.org

By Pat Merritt Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge

The Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge, in collaboration with Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, are proud to honor Natalie Guerrero as the January Student of the Month.

Natalie has been and continues to be very active at the high school. She has been the OLA representative to ASB for the past two years. Natalie was the emcee for last year’s Cinco de Mayo celebration at the high school. is led to her being the emcee at Solvang’s Hispanic Heritage

celebration and receiving a proclamation from the Solvang City Council. One of her community service contributions was volunteering at Solvang School’s fth-grade science camp, a four-day activity. She also works four days a week while juggling her many activities and maintaining a strong academic average.

Natalie takes AP classes and is described by the sta at the high school as a positive role model for all. Her plans for next year include attending Santa Barbara City College and then transferring to a four-year college to pursue a career in either child psychology or criminal justice.

Santa Ynez High School senior Natalie Guerrero (center) receives her $100 check as the December Student of the Month from Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge Exalted Ruler Robert Ramirez (right) and Elks Scholarship Coordinator Pat Merritt. Photo Courtesy of Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge

Safe + Sober Grad Nite Will Celebrate 187 SYVUHS Graduating Seniors EDUCATION

dition, parents, friends, and the community will come together to produce an all-night extravaganza for the graduates of Santa Ynez High School following their commencement earlier in the day.

All-night extravaganza scheduled for June 1, after school's commencement ceremony

After a remarkably challenging four years, the Safe + Sober Grad Nite tradition provides our local graduates a well-earned celebration with their classmates before they head o into the world.

is year, Santa Ynez Valley Union High School will hold a Safe + Sober Grad Nite celebration for the Class of 2023 on ursday, June 1, 2023. Carrying on a 22-year tra-

For the parents and the community, this event ensures that the 187 graduating seniors have an event that is safe, sober, legal, supervised, and drug-free, alcohol-free, and smoke-free. Statistics have shown that students celebrating on the evening of graduation can experience one of the most dangerous nights of their young lives. e Safe + Sober Grad Night goal is to save lives by providing a safe and sober graduation celebration. For example, according to M.A.D.D. (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), “about a quarter of car crashes with teens involve an underage drinking driver.” (www.madd.org/ statistics)

As a community, we all have an interest in seeing these young people safely launched into adulthood to pursue their goals and contribute back to their community.

“ e Class of 2023 has had unique challenges during their high school careers," said SYVUHS Principal Michael Nieho . " ey were ninth-graders when the COVID pandemic initially interrupted their regular academic program. is year’s seniors have had their high school experience impacted the most. One of the biggest priorities we’ve had this year is to make sure their senior year is their biggest and best year yet. is includes having an amazing graduation, as well as an outstanding Safe + Sober Grad Night.”

is year’s Safe + Sober Grad Night event is titled “ e Last Voyage” and will feature pirate-themed carnival games, rides, entertainers, music, food trucks, and many more surprises.

“We are trying to do things a bit di erently this year and allow for local businesses or families to sponsor speci c areas, rides or attractions that will make this event a success," said Heather Saarloos, the co-chair of the event. "We will post a sign or banner at

each attraction to acknowledge who made this experience possible along with posts to our social media platforms as well as thank you banner ads on our brand-new website. is will allow our graduating seniors to see, feel and appreciate the love and support from this very special community. Hopefully they will carry that sense of community forward as they embark on their next chapter.” e other co-chair, Val Allen, said “ is event is 100 percent donation-funded. We are seeking the community’s support to make this time-honored tradition a reality. We are one town, one team. And we need the community’s donations in order to make this event happen.”

Historically, many local businesses, community organizations and generous individuals have contributed to make this a truly memorable night for the graduates. Any businesses, organizations or individuals that would be willing to help in some way are invited to contact the committee via our website at www.syhsgradnite.com.

Sta Report

Pirate Football Trio Charts Paths to College

Luke Gildred, Aidan Scott, and Nick Crandall announce their post highschool destinations in signing ceremony

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

Afew short months before college football teams across the country begin preparing for the 2023 season, many high school seniors are making big decisions on where they are going to play after graduation.

So it was for three Santa Ynez High School grid standouts on Wednesday, March 15, as quarterback Luke Gildred, tight end Aidan Scott, and o ensive lineman Nick Crandall announced where they would be going to college.

Gildred, a second-team all-Mountain League quarterback for the Pirates in 2022, announced he'll be going to Claremont McKenna College in Claremont, California; Scott, the tight end who also saw time at defensive end, will be going up to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo; and Crandall, a second-team all-Mountain League lineman, will play for and attend the College of Idaho in Caldwell.

Before the three made their college choices o cial, SYHS head football coach Josh McClurg said a few words about his players, praising their leadership qualities as well as their talent.

"Something that's not stressed enough in life is leadership and leading by example," McClurg said. "To be good — that's easy, but to actually put it to work and be your best and make the team better is impressive.

" at's what these three did, and I can't wait to see you guys go to the next level."

A closer look at the three and their choices:

Luke Gildred

Gildred, the quarterback who threw for 2,598 yards and 24 touchdowns in his senior season, is looking forward to playing for the combined Claremont-(Harvey) MuddScripps college program, but said his decision, which he made last July, came down to

academics, as he chose to attend Claremont McKenna to major in neuroscience.

"I'm generally a very curious person, and I've really been into stu about outer space," Gildred said. "So I think neuroscience just piqued my interest and has the most avenues for all my questions, and to nd the answers."

Gildred's parents, Lisa and Stu, were on hand to witness the ceremony, and said they are looking forward to seeing their son excel not only on the eld, but in the classroom also.

" e thing about Luke is that he's actually an academic nerd disguised as a college football player," Stu Gildred said. "He's constantly studying and he hasn't gotten lower than a B. He got a B once and it really bothered him."

As far as college football, Gildred will be playing for the CMS Stags, a Division III team that competes in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. e team nished with a 7-2 overall record under coach Kyle Sweeney in 2022.

Gildred said he was impressed with Sweeney's coaching style.

" e coach is big on adapting the o ense to the star players on the team," the quarterback said. "We've talked about the o ense,

and I'm a dual-threat quarterback — I like to run and pass — and he said he'd be able to incorporate that into his o ense."

Aidan Scott

Scott's decision to commit to Cal Poly, an NCAA Division I FCS program which is part of the Big Sky Conference, was made a little easier due to some misfortune.

e tight end su ered a broken collarbone early in the 2022 season and missed a lot of playing time. at caused most of the schools to lose interest, according to Scott, but not the school from SLO.

"I was talking to other schools along with Cal Poly, but then after I had the injury, the interest in the other schools just kind of fell o ," Scott said.

" e coaches [at Cal Poly] made the process super-personal, and through my injury they made it seem like they were still going to count on me and they still wanted me to come play for them," he added.

As for now, Scott said the collarbone is "100 percent," and he's looking forward to attending the university, where he'll major

in business administration.

Someone else looking forward to Scott's next stop is his mother, Kelly Duncan, who was in attendance on Wedensday.

"I'm very excited to see him go to Cal Poly, and that's he's at a school that's close by so I can see the games," Duncan said. " e whole [recruiting] process has been a bit of a roller-coaster experience with us traveling every summer for camps, and then seeing his senior season turn out like it did, but Cal Poly was so committed to getting him."

Nick Crandall

Crandall, who played both o ensive and defensive line for the Pirates, said he experienced a social media recruitment with the College of Idaho, an NAIA program located in Caldwell, Idaho, that competes in the Cascade Collegiate Conference.

"It was all through Twitter from the start," he said. "We shared some stray messages and I shared my [highlight] lm and it took o from there.

" en it went to phone calls and digital meetings, and then they o ered me at the end of the season and invited me up for a recruiting trip in January," Crandall continued. "Once I landed down, the environment and atmosphere was just great, so I decided to commit."

Some may consider an NAIA football program a bit less "big-time" than its NCAA counterpart, but according to Crandall's dad Rich, College of Idaho really impressed them during the visit.

"[ ey] really did some great things; they were really into marketing the school to the recruits," he said. " ey brought Nick out onto the eld during the visit, and they had his name on the scoreboard, and they had this thing where they had the recruits put on a uniform and do a photoshoot with him. So all those little elements really helped sway him."

Crandall, who will be majoring in digital media and plans to redshirt next season, said he was recruited as an o ensive lineman, but it remains to be seen if he'll see action on the other side of the line, like he did at SYHS.

"When you get up to the higher levels and do rotations, they make sure to put you where you can succeed, so you never know," he said.

Santa Ynez High School football seniors (from third left) Aidan Scott (headed to Cal Poly), Luke Gildred (Claremont-Mudd-Scripps), and Nick Crandall (College of Idaho) pose with Pirates head football coach Josh McClurg (second from left) and the rest of the coaching sta after the players' signing ceremony. Photo by Mike Chaldu

Cachuma Lake Fishing Derby to be Held April 15-16

Organizers have increased the prize pool to be awarded in categories for various sh

Sta Report

The Neal Taylor Nature Center’s Fish Derby will make its return on April 15 and 16 at Cachuma Lake, located o Highway 154. e 26th Annual Fish Derby is the major fundraiser for the Nature Center, which is a nonpro t organization. is year’s Fishing Derby will again include prize categories for multiple types of sh, such as crappie, bass, cat sh, trout, and carp. e prize pool has been increased this year which means everyone has a chance to win great cash prizes, shing gear, and more. Anglers of all ages are encouraged to enter the event.

Registration fee for adults is $35 if postmarked by April 1; $40 of postmarked after April 1, and $45 on site from Friday, April 14, through Sunday, April 15. Youth registration for ages 4-15 is always $10. Registration forms are available at Cachuma Lake Park entry gate, store, marina, Nature Center, and local businesses. To receive information and a registration form in the mail, leave your name and address on the hotline (805) 6938381 or visit www.TROUTDERBY.org

Cash prizes amounting to more than $5,000 plus thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise prizes will be awarded in many categories and to anglers of all ages. Certain prizes are designated for children and for teens.

All anglers 16 years and older must have a shing license which may be purchased at the marina. Free arts and crafts activities will be o ered to children Saturday afternoon of Derby weekend at the Nature Center and the Nature Center will also host a special Books & Treasure Sale on Saturday at the Nature Center.

e Derby shing begins at 6 a.m. on Saturday, April 15, and ends at 12 p.m. on April 16. Contestants must sh in Cachuma Lake during the tournament hours and may sh from shore at any time during the Derby including Saturday night. A are will be red at the harbor to start the Derby on Saturday and to end the Derby on Sunday.

Due to the threat of quagga mussels, Ca-

chuma Lake has a 30-day quarantine and inspection of all boats except those with a Cachuma Lake Tag and kayaks/canoes.

Please check for updates to the inspection protocol at www.sbparks.org

Visitors may purchase ra e tickets for valuable prizes beginning at noon on Friday, April 14, and continuing through the weekend until Sunday noon. Winning tickets will be drawn at the Sunday Awards Program, beginning at 1 p.m. at Fireside eater. Winners do not need to be present. Folks may call the Fish Derby Hotline for up-todate information (805) 693-8381 or visit the website at www.TroutDerby.org.

For additional information and to receive a registration form in the mail, leave your name and address on the hotline (805) 6938381 or download a registration from by visiting www.TroutDerby.org

About Neal Taylor:

e Nature Center was founded in 1988 when the dream of naturalist, Neal Taylor, became a reality. Taylor began shing as a child in the Eastern Sierras with his father. As a teenager, Neal began entering y shing tournaments and started his own y-tying

business, Taylor Ties Flies. is business grew to have over a dozen employees. Neal shed all over the world and conducted y shing instructional camps throughout the Western United States. He taught y shing to several celebrities and to three U.S. presidents. Neal Taylor is the author of “Fly Fishing” which is available in the Nature Center Gift Shop. Neal also taught various college level courses and was a frequent and popular speaker for business, professional, service, and recreational organizations. Neal served as a naturalist for the Santa Barbara County Parks Department for over 18 years before retiring.

Neal was a favorite of youth groups of all ages and his legendary storytelling skills and humor added vitality and excitement to all the walks and talks he once led. Neal, until his passing in Feb. 2011 continued to be very active as a Nature Center Board member and was a lead participant in the various shing workshops held at the Nature Center, including the widely attended annual Trout Derby. With Neal’s passing in February 2011, it was proposed to rename the Cachuma Lake Nature Center in his honor to e Neal Taylor Nature Center at Cachuma Lake.

Kids do some painting at the Neal Taylor Nature Center during a past Fishing Derby at Cachuma Lake, one of many activities to be o ered at the Derby. Contributed Photos

Anglers of all ages will be looking for a big catch at Cachuma on April 15 and 16.

A young angler shows o his catch during last year’s Fish Derby at Cachuma Lake. The Derby will coming back this year, on April 15 and 16.

Formerly

Solvang Senior Center Announces More Contributions Toward New Building

of the new center, scheduled to begin by mid-2023.

“Our foundation donors have been reliable partners for the center for decades, providing annual operating grants for the center’s activities and programs,” Capital Campaign Co-Chair Linda Johansen said.

molished as construction begins. e City of Solvang has lent its support in various ways, including providing a “temporary home” for center activities at the American Legion Wing of the Veteran’s Memorial building during the construction period.

aging adults in the Valley during 2023.

Having started in 2018, the e orts to fund a new building for the Solvang Senior Center has received signi cant lead-level contributions from many individuals and local foundations over the past two years.

ose donors include Dr. Virgil Elings, the Ken and Lloyd Mills family and the Holzheu family, the Ann Jackson Family Foundation, the Hutton Parker Foundation, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation, the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation, Christian Science Society Solvang, the Elaine F. Stepanek Foundation, Glass House Brands, Rio Vista Chevrolet, the Viking Charities, Inc., and the Wood-Claeyssens Foundation. ey and others have signi cantly contributed to the construction

“ ey continue to recognize the critical importance of making an investment to meet the growing demand for programs that improve the lives of active aging adults in our Valley for decades to come.”

e center began its Capital Campaign in 2018 with a kick-o donation of $50,000 from the Solvang Rotary Foundation. Montecito Bank and Trust matched that amount to become the campaign’s lead business sponsor. Since then, the center has raised more than $3.2 million towards the construction of the new building and to out t the new center with exible and state-ofthe-art equipment.

e new multi-purpose community center will be erected on the same site as the current modular buildings, which will be de-

“With the city’s strong commitment, we can continue our activities and programs uninterrupted during construction, which is exactly what our members need,” said Executive Director Ellen Albertoni. “We are in the nal planning stages to make our move to the Legion Wing, and will announce the timing of our move in mid-spring.”

Although located in Solvang behind the Veteran’s Memorial Building, the center sits on land leased from Santa Barbara County.

e county’s support in granting a 50-year lease for $0 propelled the momentum toward the construction of a new center. Once the building permit is issued this spring, the county will give its nal approval and construction will begin.

“In coming months, additional community fundraising will be required to reach the necessary nancial funding to complete the construction and out t the building with the necessary equipment and furnishings for a state-of-the-art facility that our seniors deserve,” Johansen said.

Albertoni noted that, in addition, the building will be available for use by the community.

e Solvang Senior Center has set a goal for membership to grow to include all active

“Since announcing our membership campaign in December, we have 26 new members,” Albertoni said. “Whether purchasing your own membership or gifting one to a senior in need, we invite everyone to visit our website at www.solvangseniorcenter.org for details about programs, activities, membership, resources for seniors, and more information about the capital campaign.”

Valley residents interested in purchasing or gifting a membership can also call the Center at (805) 688-3793.

About Solvang Senior Center:

e Solvang Senior Center, a 501(c)3 nonpro t organization, is the Santa Ynez Valley’s community hub for active aging adults 55 years and older. O ering programs and activities such as low-impact exercise classes, daily lunches, and monthly member dinners, the center provides local seniors with new opportunities for connection and vital resources for independent living. Members of the Solvang Senior Center keep their minds sharp, bodies healthy, and spirits soaring thanks to the center’s services. Incorporated in 1978, the Solvang Senior Center is supported via individual memberships, donations and grants from area foundations, businesses and government. You can nd the center at 1745 Mission Drive in Solvang, behind the Solvang Veterans Hall in the heart of town. For a list of services, events and more information visit www.solvangseniorcenter.org.

This illustration shows what the lounge is expected to look like at the proposed new Solvang Senior Center building. The e ort to raise funds for the new center has picked up in the last couple of years. Contributed Graphic

Lagerville Beer Fest Returns to Buellton April 15 with All-New Competition

With over 50 breweries slated to participate, e Lagerville Beer Fest, the nation’s premier beer festival celebrating lagers, is returning to Figueroa Mountain Brewing on Saturday, April 15.

Now in its fourth year, Lagerville is expected to be bigger than ever this year, with more breweries from all over the world, and the addition of a juried competition to decide once and for all who the greatest lagermakers are.

Often maligned as “boring” beer, lager is actually a broad term that encompasses a diverse array of beer styles from all over the world, all de ned by their bottom-fermenting yeast and lower fermentation temperatures. Lagers of all styles have been enjoying a resurgence in interest among the craft beer community over the past few years, and the festival, hosted by Figueroa Mountain Brewing, seeks to honor that passion with only the brewers who make the best examples.

Participation in this year’s festival is invite-only, and is drawing brewers to the Central Coast from all over the United States, as well as countries as far as Mexico, Australia, and Germany.

One such brewery is Bayreuth, Germany’s Maisel & Friends, whom Figueroa Mountain recently teamed up with to collaborate on a lager named Bockville. e beer will only be available in Maisel’s home market in Europe, but through their participation in the festival, Maisel is bringing a few kegs to sample at the event in its only American appearance.

In return, Figueroa Mountain is having

Maisel collaborate with them on their yearly “Super Collab” beer, also called Lagerville.

e beer, which is released every year at the festival, will bring together the two breweries as well as San Luis Obispo brewers ere Does Not Exist. is year, they’ll create a hoppy West Coast Pilsner that will be available in four-packs of 16-ounce cans at Fig Mountain’s taprooms, as well as at select retailers throughout Southern California.

e increase in prominence for the festival has led to the addition of a new element this year: a juried beer competition scored by some of the industry’s best palates, including Figueroa Mountain Innovation Director Victor Novak, and Figueroa Mountain founder Jaime Dietenhofer. e panel will award medals for Best Light Lager and Best Dark Lager, in addition to the People’s Choice Award which has been present at prior year’s festivals.

“Over the years, we’ve seen the quality of lagers brought to the festival just punch through the ceiling,” says Kevin Ashford, brewmaster at Figueroa Mountain. “ is competition seeks to highlight that by honoring those beers with some well-deserved industry recognition.”

e event will take over the campus of Figueroa Mountain’s Buellton location (45 Industrial Way), and will run from 12 to 4 p.m. Tickets are $55 for general admission,

and $65 for VIP, which includes early access at 11 a.m. and the opportunity to taste beers brought exclusively for the VIP hour.

Live entertainment will be provided by R&B tribute band e 90’s BaBiez, as well as reggae band Dante Marsh & the Vibe Setters, and DJ Peetey. Food will also be available for purchase from Figueroa Mountain, as well as food trucks Birria Boyz, Elubia’s Kitchen, and more. e festival is being produced by En Fuego Events, the team behind popular parties like Surf ‘N’ Suds, Buellton Brew Fest, and more.

For guests looking to visit the area, hotel accommodations can be found at VisitSYV. com, and more information about activities

in Buellton can be found at DiscoverBuellton.com. For Lagerville tickets and a full listing of participating breweries, visit Lagerville.beer.

About Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. was founded in 2010 by father and son team Jim and Jamie Dietenhofer. rough their passion for craft beer, they’ve sought to share the beauty and the spirit of the Santa Ynez Valley with beer lovers throughout the state. eir beer can be found in bars, restaurants, and grocery stores throughout California, as well as in their taprooms throughout the region. For more information, visit FigMtnBrew.com.

Sta Report

Over 50 breweries taking part in event meant to celebrate much-maligned beverage

Ventura Coast Brewery celebrates after winning the People’s Choice award at Lagerville 2022. Contributed Photo

Gear up for a fashion adventure this season at Elna's Dress Shop

Naturalization records a crucial part of family research

CHATTER

By Sue Manning

We’re gearing up for a fashion adventure this season and what better place than Elna’s Dress Shop in Solvang to lead the way with our glamorous and fabulous take on style for you. Since spring is here as of March 20, take a look at our new arrivals.

ere is a bright new appearance of softer dressing for true comfort and style. We denitely can help with wardrobe planning, always keeping in mind what is best for you. Color, size, t, and versatility for all your needs. is is a good time to look over the clothes you haven't worn or didn't wear and donate them to a charity. Out with the old, hardly worn, or not needed and on to a new beginning. We've had a tremendous response to our Slim-sation pant by Multiples and part of our special for the month of March is to register for a free pair. ere will be three pairs of pants

given away. Our customers are buying two to four pairs at a time. ey are classy enough to wear out or wear leisurely. If you haven't tried them on yet, now is the time while selection of sizes is at its best.

Remember to shop us for the third Wednesday of each month as we honor a 20 percent discount on all regular prices (does not include Danish Costumes). is month also includes 60 percent o our sales rack. Still some very good buys, although sizes are limited.

Wardrobe building is a free service of Elna's Dress Shop. Stop by and let any of our quali ed sta assist in helping you. Remember, while seasonal trends can feel short lived, the best clothes are meant to be just the opposite, long-lasting basic colors that you can accent with a "pop of color."

Elna's Dress Shop is open ve days a week —Wednesday thru Sunday. Store hours are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. We are located at 1673 Copenhagen Drive in Solvang. Our phone number is (805) 688-4525.

GENEALOGY TIPS

By Sheila Benedict FASHION

There are many genealogical and historical webinars and conferences still totally virtual and/or hybrid. I suspect it may be the new way of attending a choice of venues in the coming months, even longer.

Still, some groups have gone live, as it were, so the only way to take advantage of their information is to attend in person. It is really up to each person to decide the importance of the topic whether to travel or nd one where the only traveler is your ngers on the computer keyboard.

is month, we will once again discuss naturalization papers and immigration information. If you have family who came to this country in the past 100 or more years, there is a good chance they led for naturalization. It's a very important document as it is a source with a lot of vital information given by the person who was the emigrant. Many documents, for example a census record, probably lists only the country of origin but the naturalization le gives much more. It shows their place of birth along with the port of departure and what port of entry they came to in the U.S., possibly Canada, then U.S. Yes, there are separate les of passenger lists but I will always recommend obtaining the naturalization le rst as all that information is included on it.

Example: my father was a toddler when he came to the U.S. All his siblings were born here. When I obtained a copy of my grandfather’s naturalization le, the port from which

he left and where he arrived was in it, but something amazing was there as well. e le not only listed my dad, who naturalized with his father, but all of the other children my grandparents had were listed even though they were citizens by birth here. One very important fact came out of those papers was the name of a female child who I knew had existed but died very young. She was alive when my grandfather les his paperwork and if all the children had not been listed, I might never have found her name and date of birth. Just a little aside is that often people went by nicknames and when lling out their paperwork, used the nickname as their rst name. For example, in Ireland it is quite common to see the name “Biddy” for a woman on many types of paper. In fact, on one marriage record obtained, the bride listed her name as Biddy. However, her birth name was Bridget. All these little pointers can assist in ways not expected. A relatively new researcher might think Biddy was her name and that the wrong person was found.

at fact is just one reason why we never ever rely on one document to prove a family or an individual. ere are non-genealogical les that hold information so keep them on your to-do list and remember two things: read history over and over again and know the laws wherever you are researching. ey di er by states and countries everywhere. Next month: vital and legal records. Good luck!

Copyright ©2023, Sheila Benedict; All Rights Reserved. Email: benedictresearchservices@gmail. com. No reproductions without prior written permission

Local philanthropist seeks volunteers to help with annual 'STOMPing Out Hunger' Event ARTS & NONPROFITS

By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

Local resident and philanthropist Teri Harmon will once again sponsor “STOMP-ing Out Hunger,” an event in which participants assemble food packets that will be sent to Uganda and Ecuador to help feed children in di erent care points, such as orphanages, schools, homes, churches, and community feeding centers within each country.

“ is will be our third Stomping-ing Out Hunger gathering and we have once again partnered with ‘Kids Around the World’ to assemble meals, which will be sent to children living in impoverished villages in Uganda and Equador,” explained Harmon. “ e program is called 'OneMeal' and is one of three programs sponsored by ‘Kids Around the World’ a 501(c) (3) nonpro t, which empowers groups to be a part of the solution of child malnutrition. Families in these impoverished areas can qualify to receive the vitamin-forti ed meals, which we will be assembling on Saturday, April 15, at 11 a.m. at the Presbyterian Church Family Center in Ballard.”

Kids Around the World provides all the ingredients, such as rice, lentils, freeze-dried vegetables, and vitamin packets to be assembled by her team of volunteers. She explained that all these ingredients go into one bag and one bag contains six meals. irty-six of these bags go into one box which is then sealed, placed on pallets, and packed into trucks which are then returned to Kids Around the World in San Clemente. Amazingly enough, one box can feed one child for an entire school year.

“I’m hoping to beat last year's record of 130,000 meals packed last year — but I need help,” said Harmon.

Each assembly table will have an team of at least eight people that will scoop or pour the ingredients into the packets, then seal and put them into a box that is then loaded back onto the truck bound for the container in which it will be shipped. Chaperoned kids age 10 and up along with adults up to 99 years old are asked to volunteer at this fun and worthy event.

“You can form your own team and wear matching out ts shirts or hats, or face paint if you want, or not; do whatever you want to help get into the spirit,” said Harmon. Let’s do this together — if you want to help sponsor this, it

will cost over $35,000 to get this done, which represents the expenses for the food ingredients/packets and shipping. Any and all donations are appreciated and welcome.”

Harmon explained how the process works.

“If you are planning on running your own team, you will need 8-plus people. One will need to be the designated the Table Captain and will communicate directly with me before hand to con rm your team member names and participation,” she said. “At the Family Center, your team will be briefed by our Kids Around the World event organizer (takes just 5 minutes), on how to easy it is to prepare and measure the ingredients correctly for packing. Trust me, this is easy stu — anyone can do this and you will have lots of help.

"Eight people per assembly line is optimal, but it can be done with fewer, if need be. ere’s a rice person, a lentil person, bag and vitamin person and a vegetable person although the bag and vitamin person can double as this is pretty easy, two-sealer people, which is the most important task (not great for your children), a sticker and box person. It’s a scoop, ll, seal and pack assembly line with breaks for snacks, etc. Some people can stand while others sit and you can switch o .”

In short, here’s what you need to do to be a part of this fun event, suggests Harmon.

• You can form your own team and forward Harmon their names.

• You can join any team or be assigned where needed. ere will hopefully be lots of people who just show up and help. Please let Harmon know if that’s your plan.

• Harmon is also looking for young groups (ages 15 and up) to help set up at 8am and help during the STOMP event. ese strong kids are very important to the success of the event and preservation of our backs!

Because the need to order the packing supplies and materials early, Harmon will need your RSVP info before March 25, preferably sooner. If you cannot make the event but would like to contribute, visit give.kidsaroundtheworld. com/stomp or sent a check payable to Kids Around the World c/o Teri Harmon, PO Box 1899, Santa Ynez, CA 93460.

For more information or to RSVP, call (805) 688-6776, fax 805-693-8842 or email Terisue. harmon@gmail.com

Pictured are some of the happy volunteers who participated in the first STOMP event. Local philanthropist Terri Harmon will again sponsor the "STOMP-ing Out Hunger" event on April 15 at the Presbyterian Church Family Center in Solvang. Contributed Photo

HAPPY ENDINGS

CONTINUED FROM PG.1

rm that the horses are in generally good condition, that abuse or neglect are not factors, and determine that there are no seriously underlying health issues before they accept them as recipients. When all of the conditions are met, Happy Endings provides hay, equine senior feed, necessary farrier needs, and non-surgical veterinary care, within reason.

Bonita Sargeant is Happy Endings’ grant writer and heads up the Rescue Program and also volunteers to care for the horses.

“I have horses on site and horses in foster care,” said Beaudette-Wellman. "I have horses in Buellton, down the street at the neighbor’s ranch and in Santa Ynez, all cared for by Happy Endings and their volunteers.

According to Beaudette-Wellman, higher expenses had made the sanctuary's job more di cult.

“Last year, at this time, one bale of hay was $24. I just ordered some hay and it is now $39.99, which will last one horse ve days.

at’s almost double the price," she said. " e prices of everything have gone up from food to medicine, veterinary costs, even gas for the truck. ere is not one single thing that hasn’t gone up in price that I know of. If you would like to contribute funds to o set some of these sky-high prices, we would be most grateful.”

Beaudette-Williamson said her facility provides a safe place for people to place their horses if they can't care from them.

“It is well-known in the rescue world that people give up their animals because they can’t a ord to keep them, so they either euthanize them or place them in shelters.

For the most part, placing horses in a rescue facility is next to impossible. Some will only accept horses with nancial support attached, such as a trust fund,” she explained. “Lately, it has been rather problematic with people creating fraudulent rescue facilities, asking for donations, and applying for grants, but they are not legitimate. ey take the money and the horses are sold to ‘kill buyers’ and transported to either Mexico or Canada, who then buy them by the pound. We want to support people who want to keep their horses in their loving homes so that’s why we started this program.”

If horses are neglected, Beaudette-Wellman will try her very best to nd foster homes to place them; if she can’t or the owner is unwilling to relinquish, the case gets sent to Animal Services.

“But it takes a lot of money to rescue these animals and rehabilitate them properly, so we rely on grants from foundations and caring individuals from our community,” she said. "During the COVID period we were unable to hold our annual fundraiser, ‘Rock for Horses.’ But, this year, our event will be happening in early September. So please come join us for a fun- lled evening.”

Happy Endings invites all seniors with horses, if they are struggling nancially, to call Happy Endings at (805) 448-7138 and take advantage of its Rescue Program now. eir funding is limited, so please don’t delay if you need help.

“We are very humbled to be of service to our community and will continue, by the grace of God, to do so,” said Beaudette-Wellman in conclusion.

For more information about the organization and the many programs Happy Endings o ers, visit www.HappyEndingsAnimalRescueSanctuary.org.

A horse named Song is a recent addition to Happy Endings Animal Rescue Sanctuary. Photo by Devyn Marseilles

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

TUESDAY, MARCH 21

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

At County Administration Building, Fourth Floor, 105 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara

For more info: countyofsb.org

THURSDAY, MARCH 23

BUELLTON CITY COUNCIL, 6 P.M.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

MONDAY, MARCH 27

SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL, 6:30 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29

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

MONDAY, APRIL 3

SOLVANG PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street, Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, MARCH 21

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

At County Administration Building, Fourth Floor, 105 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara

For more info: countyofsb.org

EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22

PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT KAENA WINERY, 10:30 A.M. TO 1:30 P.M.

Are you looking for something unique to do in Santa Barbara County Wine Country?

Why not join us at the picturesque Kaena at the Ranch in Solvang to grab a glass of wine and a paintbrush? Not just another paint and sip class, this is a full-sensory experience. Our painting in the vineyard classes provide a beautiful, stress-free environment that will

CALENDAR

both inspire your creative spirit and indulge the wine-lover in you. No previous painting experience necessary. Cost is $85 per person, which includes a tasting of Kaena wine and all the supplies necessary to create your landscape masterpiece.

At Kaena at the Ranch, 800 E Hwy 246 Solvang, CA 93463

For more info: info@artspotonwheels.com; (805) 990-2105

Online Book Club for Kids at Solvang Library, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

For readers 8-11 years old. Join us to explore some great books! e group meets online twice this month.

e March book is "Song for a Whale," by Lynne Kelly.

Story: Twelve-year-old Iris is a tech genius — and she's deaf. When she learns about Blue 55, a real whale who is unable to speak to other whales, she invents a way to "sing" to him! Sign up online via the library webpage, or email Solvanglibrary@cityofgoleta.org to reserve a spot.

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: (805) 688-4214

SATURDAY, MARCH 24

North Refugio Road, Santa Ynez

SUNDAY, MARCH 25

5K COLOR RUN, 9 TO 11 A.M.

Join us for our 5K Color Run! e event is free for families and students and is located at the Santa Ynez High track and football eld. (Note: is is not an SYVUHS-sponsored event). A registration form required; Contact Claudia Pena at (805) 688-6487 or Gina Cortez at (805) 346-1774. At Santa Ynez High School, 2975 Highway 246, Santa Ynez

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29

NATIONAL VIETNAM VETERAN'S DAY, 11 A.M. TO 2 P.M.

Join us for a barbecue lunch to celebrate veterans on Wednesday, March 29. Donations will be accepted for lunch. All veterans eat for free! At Avenue of Flags, Buellton For more info: SYV Community Outreach (805) 688-4571

SUNDAY, APRIL 2

VINYL IN THE BARRELL ROOM, 2 TO 5 P.M.

Join us on the rst Sunday of each month from 2 to 5 p.m. and enjoy wine tasting, wines by the glass, or share a bottle while you listen to Sam Kulchin spin some classic vinyl indoors in our barrel room. Sam will be taking requests from his vast collection or bring your favorite record for him to play. Audience participation gets you entered into a ra e to win some Firestone swag!

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. Certi ed — the only way to buy! Join us in downtown Solvang every Wednesday on First Street, between Mission Drive (Highway 246) and Copenhagen Drive.

SATURDAYS

VALLEY BREAKFAST, 8 A.M.

Get the day (and weekend) started right — with a good breakfast, conversation — maybe meeting some new friends on the last day of the year. Valley Breakfast every Saturday, no charge, serving 8 to 8:45 a.m.

Also, free take-home menu and farmer’s table At St. Mark's-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church, 2901 Nojoqui Avenue at Alamo Pintado Avenue, Los Olivos

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. e games can be fast-paced and deliver a good workout. 2 person teams/ or singles. All are welcome!

NIGHT OF ENCHANTMENT FATHER

DAUGHTER BALL, 5:30 TO 9 P.M.

e 16th Annual Father Daughter Ball is brought to you by the Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA, which will be transformed into a casita for a Night of Enchantment! We invite families into a magical realm where fathers and daughters may celebrate and appreciate the gifts they bring to their family through a wonderful esta. Appetizers and refreshments will be served. e objective of the Father Daughter Ball event is to give the opportunity for fathers to spend quality bonding time with their daughter(s) and give their daughter(s) a memorable night of dancing and fun. e cost is $50 for each parent and child, and $20 for each extra child.

At Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA, 900

At Firestone Winery, 5017 Zaca Station Road, Los Olivos Info: restonewine.com/events/ restone-music-sundays/

ONGOING

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS STORYTIME AT SOLVANG LIBRARY, 10:30 A.M., TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAY

Starting Oct. 18, Storytime is moving inside and expanding to both 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) 688-4214

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

TAK E A TOU R TO DAY

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