Santa Ynez Valley Star • January 23, 2026

‘The Essence of South America’: Traveling through Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil

‘Incredible’ excursion features one of the ‘New 7 Wonders of Nature,’ Iguazu Falls

By Linda Johansen Special to the Santa Ynez Valley Star

From Sept. 11-24, 2025, a group of local friends traveled to South America with Linda Johansen and Collette Tours. The “Essence of South America” included Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil, featuring one of the “New 7 Wonders of

Nature” at Iguazu Falls and was an incredible trip in all regards.

We flew via Miami on American Airlines with a total of 12 hours of flying time to arrive in Santiago, which is the cultural hub of Chile. Santiago is nestled in the valley of the snow-capped beautiful Andes mountain range. The city is a blend of modern and colonial architecture and is rich in history.

We visited the Chilean Museum of Pre Columbian Art, which is dedicated to the study and display of pre-Columbian artworks and artifacts from Central and South America. We were completely enthralled with the display of such beautiful artwork that our local guide explained in detail to us.

Following the museum, we went to the

Mercado Central de Santiago and were joined by a local chef. We walked through the fish market, stopping along the way to learn about the local seafood and to pick up some ingredients. We then all participated in a hands-on cooking experience at the chef’s restaurant and thoroughly enjoyed all the fresh foods and lunch that we helped to prepare.

After two nights in Santiago, we flew to Mendoza, Argentina, on an early flight arriving in the desert region of Mendoza known for its vineyards and Malbec wine and the stunning views of the Andes Mountains. The following morning, we visited the region’s renowned wines with a visit to a family winery.

The next morning, we flew to Buenos Aires,

Another trip around the sun for the Santa Ynez Valley: Part Two

Second half of 2025 began with fireworks, ended with an afternoon countdown

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

The Santa Ynez Valley spent 2025 maintaining a lot of traditions, welcoming its usual crowds of tourists while trying to keep the things that make the area livable for its residents. Longtime annual events like Danish Days, the 4th of July fireworks show, and Julefest continued to roll along, while newer yearly staples like Buellton’s Fall Fest, the Holiday Lights Festival and the Viking Classic Car Show in Solvang solidified their footprints into the local culture. Cities also saw some transition, and people looked to the future with projects taking shape and (hopefully) moving slowly but surely. Here’s a look at 2025 for the Santa Ynez Valley, from Month 7 to 12.

July

The seventh month of the year kicked off with, of course, the Fourth of July parade and the annual fire-

the capital of Argentina and a fabulous city with so much history that radiates Latin-infused rhythm mixed with European heritage. We enjoyed a guided tour of the city, sampling the local eats and exploring the fusion of flavors that comes with the city’s Spanish, Italian, and Jewish influences. Our panoramic tour included the San Telmo, Puerto Madero, La Boca, and Recoleta neighborhoods.

The day began with an impact moment focused on the work of the Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo, a human rights organization that has helped to restore the identities of children taken during Argentina’s military coup from 1976 to 1983. We met a child whose

works show at Mission Santa Ines. The parade came off beautifully over sunny skies, taking on the theme of “Anything is Possible in America,” to

celebrate the country’s 249th birthday. The day and evening was topped off by the city’s annual fireworks show that

Solvang

Education Pg. 5

• Danielle Hyland named SYV Elks Lodge Student of the Month for December

Calendar Pg. 7

• Government meetings and events

NEWS BRIEFS

SOLVANG

The lawn where the Solvang Tree Burn was to be held on Jan. 9 is shown waterlogging due to recent rains. The Tree Burn was canceled due to the wet conditions. Photo courtesy of Solvang Parks and Rec City skips 2026 tree burn due to heavy rainfall

For the second time in four years, the Solvang Tree Burn, usually held at Mission Santa Ines in early January, was canceled due to rainy weather in the days leading up to the event, which this year was to be held on Friday, Jan. 9.

“Due to extremely poor field conditions caused by recent rainfall, the 34th Annual Solvang Tree Burn has been cancelled,” the Solvang Parks and Rec department said in a notice released Wednesday, Jan. 7. “After careful evaluation, it was determined that current conditions present significant concerns for participants, staff, and emergency personnel.

In addition, this event requires extensive logistics and coordination among multiple agencies. To allow adequate time for planning, staffing, and safety preparations, a decision needed to be made sooner rather than later while continuing to monitor field conditions. Unfortunately, conditions have not improved to a level that would allow the event to proceed safely.”

Decoration-free Christmas trees were accepted at the Tree Burn site through Jan. 9 and hauled away for chipping.

Solvang also had to cancel the tree burn event in 2023 because of rainy weather, when the grass area on the east part of the mission’s parking lot was extremely wet after heavy rains in two days preceding it.

The tree burn and resulting bonfire, when held, has given community members a chance to get rid of their Christmas trees after the holiday, while also providing a training opportunity for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, and a chance for the department to advocate for fire safety. The event has also included live entertainment along with refreshments for purchase.

The tree burn, which marks the end of the city’s month-plus-long Julefest holiday celebration, will be back next year, weather permitting, presumably on Jan. 8, 2027.

Applications to City Council for grant funding due on Jan. 30

The application period is open for any community nonprofits and groups to seek grants for their organizations. Deadline is Jan. 30.

“The Solvang City Council recognizes the importance of human service organizations, programs, and events that serve community residents,” says a statement on the city website (cityofsolvang.com). “As part of the annual budget process and financial plan development, the City Council may consider appropriation of such funds as it deems prudent and

reasonable to award grants to nonprofit community service organizations. The grant funding process will occur every Dec. 1 through Jan. 30 of each year. Grant funding is based on available funds and is not guaranteed. Only complete application packets will be accepted during the application process. The City will prioritize funding for Solvang citizen services, senior citizen services, Veterans, youth and minors with disabilities and programs and events that serve the Solvang community specifically.”

For more info on grant funding applications, go to www.cityofsolvang.com/596/ Grant-Funding-Application-Information

SANTA YNEZ

Aquatics Foundation to host Polar Bear Plunge on Feb. 7

The Santa Ynez Community Aquatics Foundation will be hosting a Polar Bear Plunge from 8 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Santa Ynez High School pool deck.

Community members are invited to come bright and early for a fun, chilly dip in the pool — followed by hot coffee, cocoa, and donuts — and a big announcement about the future SYV Community Aquatics Complex! This is a free and family-friendly event for the whole community!

The Aquatics Foundation is in the middle of spearheading a campaign for a brand new aquatics complex at the site of the current high school pool. The foundation has gotten support from the cities of Buellton and Solvang, and the Chumash tribe, among others.

Apparently, a swimming race between the mayors of Buellton and Solvang may be added if a Facebook post from Buellton Mayor David Silva is to be believed.

“Mayor Brown of Solvang and I are keeping up the friendly competition to support the Santa Ynez Valley Aquatics Center with a Mayor’s Race at the Polar Bear Plunge event,” the post said. “Come out and have some fun with the community as we celebrate the progress towards making this pool a reality!”

For more information on the Polar Bear Plunge, and the foundation’s efforts to build the new Aquatics Center, go to syvaquatics. org.

Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians named a Clean California Community

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has been named a “Clean California Community,” becoming one of 39 communities across the state, including San Luis Obispo County and the City of San Luis Obispo, to earn the distinction.

Environmentally conscious programs and its enterprise employees’ involvement in clean-up events helped the tribe complete the required criteria to earn the designation. Efforts include picking up trash along Highways 246 and 154 as part of Caltrans’ the Adopt-a-Highway program, and the Santa Ynez Chumash Environmental Office serving as site captain in Goleta for California Coastal Cleanup Day and being joined by employees from “Team Chumash,” the tribe’s volunteer group, to collect trash from the beach. In addition, innovative recycling programs and community partnerships continue to help the Chumash Casino Resort achieve a 91.9 percent waste-diversion

rate from local landfills – an accomplishment that earned the resort TRUE© Zero Waste distinction from Green Business Certification Inc. in 2019.

partment and ensured implementation of electronic permitting and countywide geographic information system.

The Clean California Community Designation Program is part of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s $1.2 billion Clean California initiative, which was launched in 2021 by Caltrans to clean up, reclaim, transform, and beautify public spaces statewide. The program was developed in partnership with Caltrans, Keep America Beautiful, and Keep California Beautiful.

“Our tribe is proud of our team members’ contributions of both time and effort to keep the areas around our resort clean, while also volunteering to support larger causes that are focused on improving the environment,” said Kenneth Kahn, tribal chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “Being named a Clean California Community is a testament to our resort’s leadership and the great work of our Team Members who understand the importance of being stewards of the land.”

In recognition of its dedication to a cleaner community, the resort will receive “Clean California Community” signage, educational resources, automatic membership with Keep California Beautiful, and recognition in statewide releases and cross-promotional Clean California materials.

The designation can be pursued by various entities, including cities, towns, counties, municipal districts, military bases, neighborhood groups, school districts, houses of worship areas, community group service areas, business improvement districts, watershed groups, and other unincorporated entities.

For a complete list of Clean California Community recognition recipients, visit www. cleanca.com/clean-ca-designated-communi ties/

SB COUNTY

County Executive Officer Mona Miyasato announces plans to retire in July

Santa Barbara County Executive Officer Mona Miyasato announced on Friday, Jan. 16, that she plans to retire in July, concluding more than 12 years of service to the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors and the residents of Santa Barbara County. She will remain fully engaged over the next six months to ensure continuity of operations, support leadership succession planning, and lead adoption of the county’s FY 2026–27 budget.

“Serving Santa Barbara County has been the honor of my professional career,” said Miyasato. “Together, we modernized county operations, strengthened our safety net and justice system, invested in critical infrastructure, and communicated transparently, even during times of crisis. As we prepare for this transition, our focus remains steady: delivering essential services, supporting our workforce, and upholding the trust of our residents.”

During her tenure, Miyasato led a decade of organizational modernization to improve transparency, efficiency, and service delivery across county departments. She championed the implementation of major enterprise systems, including the Workday financial and human resources platform, a new electronic budgeting system, and an online financial transparency tool launching this year. She spearheaded the establishment of the County’s standalone Information Technology De-

Miyasato placed renewed emphasis on transparency, public communication, and community engagement, re-establishing a centralized communications function, expanding public information capacity, and introducing plain-language summaries of board actions along with a monthly countywide electronic newsletter. She also championed the expansion of homeless services and innovative approaches to homeless housing opportunities. Miyasato also prioritized critical improvements to the county’s criminal justice system, advancing diversion strategies that safely reduced the jail population, particularly for individuals with mental illness.

These efforts were strengthened through closer integration of justice system oversight with health and human services, especially behavioral health Throughout her tenure, Miyasato guided the county through unprecedented emergencies and recovery efforts, including the Thomas Fire, the Jan. 9 Debris Flow, multiple wildfires, and severe winter storms, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her leadership, the county strengthened bilingual emergency communications, enhanced Emergency Operations Center readiness and secured hundreds of millions of dollars in state and federal reimbursements to protect core services and support long-term community-based recovery. Miyasato joined the county in 2013 following the Great Recession, as it faced rising pension costs, structural budget pressures, unstable reserves, and a reduced workforce operating under prolonged strain. Under her leadership, the county restored fiscal stability, fully funded its Strategic Reserve, earned the highest available bond rating (AAA) awarded to a public agency, implemented disciplined multi-year financial planning, and positioned itself to eliminate its pension unfunded liability by 2031.

“Mona Miyasato’s leadership over the past 12 years has been extraordinary,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Bob Nelson. “Through periods of significant challenge and change, she has guided the County with integrity, steadiness, and a deep commitment to public service. Her work strengthened the organization, elevated our leadership team, and positioned the County to thrive well into the future. The strong foundation she leaves in place ensures that this organization will continue to succeed and serve our communities with excellence.”

The county will initiate a national recruitment process for the executive officer position in coordination with the Board of Supervisors and the Human Resources Department.

Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office welcomes new employees and recognizes promotions

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office today welcomed two new employees and recognized the promotion of twelve members of the organization during a ceremony underscoring the Sheriff’s Office’s longstanding commitment to service, professionalism, and leadership.

“Our office has a proud tradition of Keeping the Peace Since 1850,” Sheriff Bill Brown said. “Whether you are beginning your career with our agency or stepping into a new leadership role, our expectations are clear: treat every person fairly, courteously, and professionally — every time.”

The Sheriff’s Office welcomed Sheriff’s Utility Worker Frank “Frankie” Lentini and Financial Office Professional Leon “Fabian” Arias.

The Sheriff then introduced and promoted 12 members of the agency. These included three key additions to the executive leadership team:

Undersheriff Brad Welch is a 25-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office who has served in custody, patrol, investigations, and command leadership, most recently as Chief

Solvang City Council discusses draft signage ordinance at latest meeting

Community developement director, counsel and councilmembers discuss effect of court cases on city’s enforcement

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

Holding its first meeting of the year, the Solvang City Council on Tuesday, Jan. 12, spent a while talking with staff

about how they can properly interpret and enforce the upcoming draft ordinance on city signage.

Community Development Director Rafael Castillo introduced the discussion item Discussion and direction on Draft Title 11, Chapter 13 Sign Ordinance Amendments, with the councilmembers seemingly frustrated at times over what they would be able to enforce.

Castillo said in his report the city staff has prepared a working draft of comprehensive, content-neutral sign ordinance amendments intended to

modernize regulations, improve legal defensibility, streamline permitting, and preserve Solvang’s character, with the goal of adoption in Spring 2026 alongside a companion sign handbook. He requested City Council direction on: two key policy issues needed to refine the draft: The appropriate level of review authority for permanent signs, whether all permanent signage should be approved administratively by staff, remain entirely under Design Review Committee approval, or proceed as currently

drafted allowing staff approval of blade/suspended signs only with all other permanent signage reviewed by the DRC; and The maximum amount of permanent signage allowed per business, whether to maintain the proposed cap of up to 20 square feet or building frontage (whichever is less) inclusive of all permanent signage, modify the standard to be based on linear frontage as recommended by the Planning Commission, or provide alternative direction.

Based on Council input, staff will

finalize the draft ordinance and return it to the DRC and Planning Commission for formal recommendations prior to City Council adoption.

At its special joint meeting with the Planning Commission on March 13, 2025, city staff received direction on proceeding with proposed sign ordinance amendments. City staff has commenced amending the sign ordinance based on comments and feedback received from the workshop and its November meeting with the

Buellton City Council gives green light to pet microship scanners in town

$1,500 authorized for initial installation of five scanners with locations including Dog Park, City Hall, and Humane Society

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

Reuniting lost pets with their owners could be made a little easier, and ease the burden on local animal services, after a decision by the Buellton City Council in its Thursday, Jan. 8, meeting, the first of 2026.

After a presentation by Linda Greco, the president of the Santa Barbara County Animal Care Foundation (SBACF), and Sarah Aguilar, the director of the county’s Animal Services, the City Councilmembers voted to set aside $1,500 for the installation of five DIY (Do It Yourself) Pet Microchip Scanners, to be placed at different spots in the city: City Hall, the PAWS Dog Park at the corner of La Pita Place and Dawn Drive, the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society on Commerce Drive, and two more sites to be determined.

The Pet Microchip Scanner is a device that can get information on the animal through scanning a microchip embedded in the animal. The SBACF plans to install 20 of the scanners, inside a mounted plastic box, at various sites around Buellton.

During her presentation, Greco explained that any individual using the scanner could find out who the owners are, where they live, and can contact them to return the pet without it going into the county system.

“It’s exciting that it empowers our community to be a part of the story,” she said. “They can be a part of that reuniting with the animal. They get to be a part of that ‘win-win,’ instead of taking it to Animal Services and then wondering what happened to it.”

Aguilar also addressed the council, adding the benefit it gives to those working in Animal Services.

“The volume of stray animals is far more than we get of any other type of intake,” she said. “In 2025, we took in nearly 4,300 animals who entered system as strays. We found that most strays are found within a mile of their homes, and if taken to the shelter, that means their taken into the system, which makes it harder to be reunited with them.

“The microchip scanners can allow pets to be reunited with their owners without having to go to animal services to reunite, and take away an extra layer of process.”

Also after a question from Councilmember Hudson Hornick about the role of the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society in Buellton with strays, Vice Mayor Carla Mead, who chairs the SYVHS board, noted that the facility is not officially equipped to take in strays and must send any they get to the county facility in Santa Barbara.

The proposal drew a positive reaction from the council.

“I think this is a wonderful idea, to the point of doing the right thing,” he said, and said he was for authorizing an amount to get five machines installed. City Manager Scott Wolfe said the amount for $1,500 could be authorized with a location to two recommended.

Aguilar had earlier offered “heat maps,” that show the locations of found strays, but Wolfe suggested the PAWS Park at La Pita Place was an obvious choice, while Councilmember John Sanchez suggested the Humane Society, and City Hall was given as another location. Two other sites would be determined.

Councilmember Elysia Lewis moved to approve the financial authorization and the issuance of heat maps, with scanners to be built at the three approved locations. Sanchez seconded and the motion passed 5-0.

In other business:

In the first of two proclamations, the council recognized the month of January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

After Mayor David Silva read the proclamation, Ann McCarty, Executive Director of the North County Rape Crisis and

Child Protection Center and member of the Human Trafficking Task Force, said a few words.

“Human trafficking not a distant problem, it is happening in our community, and it thrives in silence,” McCarty said. “This [proclamation] is doing more than issuing a piece of paper ... you’re sending a message that the city is watching, that there is no safe haven for those who exploit or harm others. You’re telling survivors they’re seen.”

The second proclamation was to declare the following day, Friday, Jan. 9, Law Enforcement Appreciation Day in the City of Buellton.

Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Sgt. James Kurowski was on hand to accept the proclamation, saying, “Thank you to the board, thank you to the audience, and we look forward to our continued relationship and service to Buellton.”

The council approved budget amendments from operational changes related to

the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget through the first quarter ending Sept. 30, 2025. Finance Director Shannel Zamora said the latest amendment put the city at an operational deficit of $594,132.

The City Council meets next on Thursday, Jan. 22, at 6 p.m.

SPORTS

Pirates basketball squads begin Sunset League play

Boys defeat Templeton at home, girls win big at Cabrillo

By Mike Chaldu michael@santaynezvalleystar.com

After a month of non-league opponents and preseason tournaments the Santa Ynez High boys and girls basketball teams began Sunset League play at the start of the new year. And both posted their first league wins in convincing fashion on Friday, Jan. 16.

Boys defeat visiting Templeton

The Pirates boys squad finished with a 9-9 record in the preseason before falling to Righetti in its league opener to assure they would not go 8-0 like they did last year. On Jan. 16, they defeated visiting Templeton 57-43 to assure they won’t finish 0-8 in league like they did two years ago.

Jude Pritchard, who has a team-high 15.7 points per game so far this year, and Wesley Satterthwaite had 14 points to lead the Pirates. Gael Villalobos had 12 points and 7 rebounds. Satterthwaite also had 7 boards.

“They played us close for three quarters. Their 3-2 zone defense was tough to penetrate,” SYHS head coach Rod Caughell said after the game. “Fortunately, we shot very well from the outside, which can be a weakness with the 3-2, and we were able to open it up in the fourth quarter.”

Caughell also had praise for the Pirates defense.

“We played great defense,” he said. “Templeton’s a great three-point shooting team, but our guys kept their hands in the face. We broke away in the fourth, with some turnovers and they missed some foul shots.”

The Templeton win followed a Jan. 13 loss to Righetti by the score of 70-57. Pritchard led the way for the Pirates with 18 points, while Mason Skidmore scored 12 points and Lucas Ollenburger added 11.

The loss and win over Templeton, showed how erratic the team could be, according to Caughell.

“We’re just a Jeckyll-and-Hyde team,” he said. “Sometimes we don’t show up with the necessary energy to win, and other times we can’t be beat with our level of intensity.”

Caughell believes that his team will

do well if they can keep up the energy it had against Templeton.

“We got about four guys who can score in double digits easily,” the coach said, identifying Pritchard and Ollenburger as the go-to guys on the team.

“Like I said, if we keep the level of intensity for every game, we’re in good shape.”

The Pirates 1-1 in league and 10-10 overall, traveled to Paso Robles on Tuesday, Jan. 20, and will go to Lompoc on Friday, Jan. 23, before returning home for a non-league game against Carpinteria on Jan. 27.

Girls squad romps at Cabrillo for first league win

In a game against a winless opponent, things turned out as expected for the Pirates girls basketball team as it won

Michele Miller Maxwell named to SNHU President’s List

Michele Miller Maxwell of Santa Ynez has been named to Southern New Hampshire University’s (SNHU) Fall 2025 President’s List. The fall terms run from September to December.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.7 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.

SNHU is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with a 93-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 200,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, available online and

easily in the Conquistadores gym 69-32.

Lexi Molera was top scorer for the Pirates with 18 points on six 3-pointers, while Helina Pecile had 12 points, 13 rebounds, and 5 steals, and Rylan Agin (12 points, 8 rebounds) and Jazmine Juarez (10 points) also shined.

That first league win followed two losses, to Morro Bay (45-42) and Righetti (65-39).

“It’s a tougher league this year, and we have to contend with Morro Bay and Righetti, so that’s tough,” SYHS head coach Jennifer Rasmussen said. “However, I just want to get this team ready for the postseason, and I think if we can get the playoff berth, we can get a run like last year.”

The Pirates last year made it all the way to CIF Section Finals before losing, but then got a state-playoff

on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH.

Recognized as one of the “Most Innovative” regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner.

Kielson Lawton and Lulu Simpson earn Dean’s List honors at College of Charleston College of Charleston congratulates more than 1,900 students named to the Dean’s List for Fall 2025, with two of them hailing from Los Olivos.

Kielson Lawton has not decided on a major yet, while Lulu Simpson is majoring in sociology

Located in the heart of historic Charleston, South Carolina, the College of Charles-

berth and won a game before being eliminated. So far this year, SYHS stands at 9-6 with a 1-2 Sunset League record.

The girls team returned home on Tuesday, Jan. 20, against Atascadero, and will play Lompoc at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 23 (tonight).

Pirates soccer scores season high in win over Dunn

The SYHS boys soccer team had it highest scoring output on the season on Saturday, Jan. 17, in a 5-0 win over Dunn in Los Olivos

Hector Gonzalez, Osvaldo Muro, Vince Guerrero, Danny Garcia, and Yahir Torres scored the goals for SYHS, while Luis Garcia (2), Walker Sweetland, Marcos Rivera and Mario Zepeda got assists.

ton is a nationally recognized, public liberal arts and sciences university. Founded in 1770, the College is among the nation’s top universities for quality education, student life, and affordability. Its beautiful and historic campus, combined with contemporary facilities, cutting-edge programs, and accessible faculty, attracts students from across the U.S. and around the world.

Nazareth University student Alexander Kobayashi of Buellton earns Fall 2025 Dean’s List honors Nazareth University is proud to announce that Alexander Kobayashi of Buellton has been named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2025 semester.

A student’s grade point average must be at least 3.5 or above, and they must complete 12 credit hours of graded work that semester in order to be included on the

“As the season comes to an end, the team is getting stronger and ready to compete for a spot into the playoffs,” said Rivera.

Head coach Hector Garcia’s team, with a record of 5-3-3 (1-1-2 in the Sunset League) played at Atascadero on Tuesday, Jan. 20, and will travel to Nipomo on Friday, Jan. 23.

Girls soccer shuts out Cabrillo

The SYHS girls soccer team stayed undefeated in the Ocean League with a 3-0 win over the Cabrillo Conquistadores on Jan. 9.

Hannah Ricci, Isabella Rubio, and Mia Pulido scored second-half goals to lead the Pirates to victory.

After taking last week off, the Pirates played Mission Prep on Tuesday and will play Nipomo at home Friday, Jan. 23

dean’s list at Nazareth.

Nazareth University in Rochester, New York, is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Its broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of big universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing them for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth graduates launch lifetimes of changemaking leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.

Danielle Hyland named SYV Elks Lodge Student of the Month for December

Santa Ynez High senior excels in athletics, arts, and leadership

Staff Report

The Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge recently announced its choice for December Student of the Month, and the honoree is Santa Ynez High senior Danielle Hyland.

Danielle is known an exceptional student whose academic drive, leadership, and compassion make her a standout in every setting. She is an only child who was adopted from China at the age of 3, and she has proudly called the Santa Ynez Valley home for many years.

Danielle speaks warmly about her close-knit family and the steady support she receives from her parents. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Tillie and Bailey, and she brings a wide range of talents and interests to everything she does — from seven years of dance and violin to basketball, track, and eventually discovering a true love for tennis in eighth grade.

One of the achievements Danielle is most proud of is her leadership as president of the SYV Medical Club. She recognized that students interested in health care didn’t yet have a space on campus to explore careers, connect with peers, and learn from professionals. So she helped build that community herself

— organizing projects and guest speakers and creating real opportunities for students to envision futures in medicine and service.

Danielle’s commitment to helping others extends far beyond the classroom. She is a tennis co-captain, a CIF individual competitor, and a member of last year’s CIF Central Section championship team. She also works as a waitress at the Copenhagen Sausage Garden in Solvang, balancing her job with school and athletics. Perhaps most remarkable is her nearly 200 hours of volunteer service at Cottage Hospital, where she has been able to observe health-care professionals firsthand. Those experiences have strengthened her desire to become a nurse and reinforced her passion for caring for people in meaningful, practical ways.

After graduation, Danielle plans to pursue college — either beginning at SBCC or attending a four-year university such as San Diego State, Cal State San Marcos, or Cal State Long Beach — with the goal of entering the nursing field. She is excited to build a career where she can help people, comfort those in need, and make a real difference in her community.

And if Danielle could share one piece of advice with younger students, it would be this: Don’t let anyone stop you from believing in yourself. Have confidence, stand up for yourself, give yourself grace, and remember that perfection isn’t the goal — growth is.

mother and father were young students at the university. The mother was abducted by the military from school when her son was just 10 days old, and was eventually shot by those that took her. The father took the son to the country so he wouldn’t be taken as well, and they both were sequestered by family trying to save them.

The son explained to us that his mother’s remains had recently been found in Bueno Aires in a mass grave. The military was also kidnapping young children and babies and placing them with military families during this time.

Every Thursday, grandmothers and older mothers march in silent protest in the plaza called the Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo with a diaper wrapped around their head to symbolize the babies that were taken away and given to the military families. Paintings of diapers in a large circle on the tiles of the plaza symbolize the children taken.

I added Brazil and Iguazu Falls onto our Collette tour. It is right there, and one of the “7 News Wonders of Nature,” as designated in a poll conducted from 2007-11 by a Swiss foundation, and really not to be missed. It is stun-

night after attendees enjoyed activities, food, and live music until the sun went down, and local pyrotechnician Kief Adler took care of the fireworks.

Also during the month, Highline Adventures, the outdoor park between Buellton and Solvang, introduced its new feature, Skynet Playground, an elevated netted zone designed for safe climbing and bouncing for all ages. Meanwhile, the Buellton City Council approved the establishment of a private school, Hundred Hills School, by the new library, after a contentious meeting with both advocates and opponents speaking out.

August

The month began with the naming of Santa Ynez High student Addie Madrid as 2025’s Danish Maid, who would preside over the city’s Danish Days festival in September. Addie, 17, was the fourth in her family to earn the title, after her grandmother, mother, and older sister served as Danish Maids.

Santa Ynez High made news by announcing a new sport, girls flag

City Council.

ning and, even though that was my second visit there, it moved me just as much if not more this trip. The falls are huge and breathtaking. Eleanor Roosevelt once exclaimed “My Poor Niagara” (referring to Niagara Falls) upon seeing the Iguazu Falls. Iguazu Falls has just under 2 million visitors a year, its longest drop is 80 meters at Devil’s Throat and has over 275 waterfalls, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

football would be making its debut in the fall, with Hannah Wright and Maddie Quiroga, both SYHS grads serving as co-head coaches. With school also opening for session in August, the SYHS football team began its season with a big win over Dos Pueblos. In other news, national politics was at center stage on Aug. 16, as local protesters in Solvang took part in a nationwide “Protect Our Checks” demonstration against President Trump’s proposed policies on Social Security.

September

Like every year, September is noted for its annual Danish Days, a threeday festival celebrating the city’s culture. As Danish Maid Addie Madrid presided, crowds enjoyed several activities, including folk dancing, and, of course the popular aebleskiver eating contests held on Saturday and Sunday. Another local staple, the Cars and Cowboys car show, found itself at a new site, Rancho San Marcos Golf Course, and offered many great vehicles to view and good food, all to raise money for Buellton’s Meals on Wheels.

Staff has taken the draft sign ordinance to the Design Review committee in three sections to receive input and discussion. The DRC discussed the sign ordinance at its June, August, and October meetings of 2025. The Planning Commission has reviewed a draft of the draft revisions at its November 2025 meeting and provided additional comments on the draft ordinance.

Discussion on City Council was on two points: whether sign approvals would be done by city staff, by the city’s Design Review Committee or approvals would fall under draft ordinance, which allows blade/suspended signs to be reviewed and approved at a staff level, and all other permanent signage needs to be reviewed and approved by the DRC.

The second topic was maximum signage and whether to keep at the current policy that allows a total of 1 square foot of signage per linear feet for “dominant” building frontage, and ½ square foot per linear feet of “subordinate” square footage for permanent signs, or just have it at a max of 20 square feet.

When Mayor David Brown asked for guidelines on the discussion, Castillo said that review for signage was limited to “time, place, and manner,” but not content, a policy necessitated

Our last day in Buenos Aires was a blur as we tried to fit everything in. We went to the Opera House, which was stunning, and the Crypt Mausoleum,or Catacombs, which is an underground museum — also fascinating. The owner. upon hearing that we were from California, came out to meet us.

Jorge Eckstein, called “Don Jorge” by his loving staff, bought the two-story villa in

Also in September, two local citizens took on important jobs. Carla Mead was sworn in as Buellton’s new City Councilmember after winning a special election in August, and Tori Martinez was promoted to SYHS principal — with Kimberly Sheehan remaining as district superintendent.

October

Santa Ynez Valley communities ended the month with frights and fun, as Solvang again put on its latest haunted house production at the Solvang Festival Theater for the second year in a row, while Santa Ynez had it’s own program on Sagunto Street, featuring a costume contest and movie viewings. All this after a month of pumpkin patches doing business and businesses putting up their displays for the Scarecrow Fest. Meanwhile, another event that’s becoming an October staple, the Viking Classic Car Show, took place for the third year with 250 entries being displayed on Solvang streets. Also, Solvang, nearing 40 years as an incorporated city, held its State of the City address, noting its dedication to tourism, but also that it needs to serve

1985. When he asked where we were from, we all said Solvang. He promptly told us he had been to Solvang many times as he goes to Santa Barbara a few times a year. His son, Dr. Miguel Eckstein, is a psychology and brain science professor at UCSB and works in neuroscience. This is the BONUS of travel, meeting such amazing people along the way! It’s a small world really, and this type of thing happens often in my travels.

The Collette Essence of South America tour proved to be yet another adventurous and beautiful trip for all of us. We leave the countries behind, but relive the adventures every time we tell the stories of all the fun we have had.

The commission from this trip was donated to the SY Aquatics Foundation and Olive Crest. Our trip in February to Singapore, Thailand, and Cambodia will be dedicated to People Helping People and new trips that are available to book will be to Iceland with a stopover on the return in New York in September 2026. Email for details and reservations to Linda Johansen at: lindyjo2003@yahoo.com. Buellton Recreation will be sending out the two new listed trips shortly.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is a condensed version of the story. For the entire, uncut story and more photos, go to santaynezvalleystar.com

the people who are there year-round.

November

Buellton celebrated its big (and getting bigger) annual event, the Fall Fest for the fifth time, which according to organizers was the most successful one yet. Avenue of Flags was awash with carnival rides, food booths, vendors, and activity. Oh yes, and music too, as two stages provided live entertainment all day for three days, with reggae legend Paco Banton a highlight on the Saturday night show.

A couple of other annual events happened also: Veterans Day came and a ceremony was again held at the Solvang Veterans Hall honoring those who served, while a crowd looking to start off Thanksgiving morning on an energetic note took part in the Turkey Trot at Sunny Fields Park in Solvang. In other news, the effort to get a new aquatic center built on the campus of SYHS got some help and both the Solvang and Buellton City Councils pledged money toward the effort.

December

The last month of the year arrived,

by Supreme Court cases like Reed v. Town of Gilbert,which protected free speech on signs. Councilmember Elizabeth Orona than asked “So signs are exempt from color governance?” When Castillo confirmed that they were, she answered, “That’s a big departure. We have a color palette. We have no method to find aesthetic consistency between a sign and building.”

City Counsel Chelsea O’Sullivan explained, “This is a whole other thing in case law. All content restriction is struck down. We’re trying to come up with something realistic.”

Elizabeth Orona wondered if the city design book that’s currently being worked on could leverage sign design to be more consistent Castillo suggested while they can’t reject anything on content, they can mentioned to

and for Solvang, that meant Julefest, the weeks-long celebration of Christmas and New Year’s. The city got it kicked off with its tree lighting on the first Friday of December, with the usual holiday entertainment, and its Christmas parade the next day. However, Solvang wasn’t the only city doing Christmas stuff: Santa Ynez, Buellton, and Los Olivos had their own trees lit, with Buellton really doing it up with its Winter Fest that offered a large patch of manmade snow, along with rides, food, Santa, and the adjacent Holiday of Lights at the SYV Botanical Garden.

Later in the month, the Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church reminded us of “the reason for the season,” with its annual Solvang Nativity Pageant, retelling the story of Christ’s birth, and then Solvang rang in the New Year a little early on the afternoon of Dec. 31 with the Copenhagen Countdown, as the crowd celebrated 2026 at 3 p.m., the same time it hit New Year’s in Copenhagen, Denmark, amid a spirited concert by local band favorite The Molly Ringwald Project. Here’s wishing a fantastic 2026 to all in the Santa Ynez Valley.

prospective business that the designs in the book are “preferred” and people would fall in line with that.

“Anything you can do to streamline is ideal,” Brown replied. “Call it a brand book or preferred methods. If you called it the standards, they would follow.”

Later, during Public Comment, Esther Jacobsen Bates, chair of the DRC, called in by Zoom (though speaking as a private citizen) said she thought all the approvals should fall to the DRC.

She also brought up the subject of murals in town, which she believed were a category unto themselves and should be reviewed by the DRC.

“DRC should be authority on that,” Jacobsen Bates said. “Have shared mural standards, and recognize that not every wall needs to have a mural, and we should review those carefully.”

Ultimately, the council gave direction to determine maximum signage by linear feet, give the DRC authority on the murals, and keep approval authority as it is in the draft ordinance.

Castillo thanked the council and said, “It’s been a long journey and you will see the final draft soon; I should get this in your hands by March.”

The City Council will meet next on Monday, Jan. 26, at 6:30 p.m.

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

MONDAY, JAN. 26

SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL, 6:30 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, JAN. 27

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, 9 A.M.

At Betteravia Government Center, 511 Lakeside Pkwy, Santa Maria For more info: countyofsb.org

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION, 9 A.M. 123 East Anapamu Street, Room 17, Santa Barbara For more info: countyofsb.org

MONDAY, FEB. 2

SOLVANG PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, FEB. 3

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, 9 A.M. County Administration Building, 105 E Anapamu St., Santa Barbara For more info: countyofsb.org

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 4

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION, 9 A.M. 123 East Anapamu Street, Room 17, Santa Barbara For more info: countyofsb.org

THURSDAY, FEB. 5

BUELLTON PLANNING COMMISSION, 6 P.M. At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton For more info: cityofbuellton.com

EVENTS

FRIDAY, JAN. 23

SYV CONCERT SERIES: TAKACS QUARTET, 7 TO 8:30 P.M.

Experience an unforgettable evening of chamber music with the world-renowned Takács Quartet as part of the SYV Concert Series. This celebrated ensemble brings precision, passion, and depth to every performance. The program features Beethoven’s String Quartet, Op. 18, No. 2, Nokuthula Ngwenyama’s “Flow,” and

Deputy of Law Enforcement Operations.

He holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, has graduated from multiple executive leadership programs, and is a past recipient of the Santa Barbara County

• Sheriff’s Office Medal of Valor. He brings deep operational experience to the role of second-in-command.

• Chief Deputy Kevin Huddle is a long-serving Sheriff’s Office leader with a career spanning patrol, investigations, field training, and executive command assignments. A POST Command College

CALENDAR

Dvořák’s String Quartet No. 13 in G Major, Op. 106. Performers include Edward Dusinberre and Harumi Rhodes on violin, Richard O’Neill on viola, and András Fejér on cello.

General admission tickets are $25, with students allowed in for free; Patron tickets are $45. You can purchase season passes or individual tickets online.

At St. Mark’s in the Valley, 2901 Nojoqui Ave., Los Olivos

For tickets more info: www.smitv.org/syvconcert-series.html

THURSDAY, JAN. 29

ADULT ART WORKSHOP: ANIMAL PORTRAIT PAPER MOSAICS, 9 TO 11:30 A.M.

Join the California Nature Art Museum and Artist Katherine Taylor of Poetr y Frog for a paper mosaics workshop on Thursday, Jan. 29 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Katherine will guide attendees through planning and arranging their very own animal portrait with a variety of colorful and patterned paper options. Attendees should may either bring an animal photo that they connect with (such as a pet photo), or may choose from one of the provided examples. This is an entry-level class, but experienced artists are always welcome.

The class fee for this workshop is $35 for CalNAM members and $40 for CalNAM non-members, per participant, all supplies included. Advance registration is required, 15 attendees max. This class is best suited for ages 14 and over.

At California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Drive, Solvang For tickets/moreinfo: www.calnatureartmu seum.org/news/paper-mosaics-jan25

FRIDAY, JAN. 30

FIRESTONE VINEYARD STAND-UP COMEDY, 6 TO 9 P.M.

Get ready for a night of big laughs and great wine at Firestone Vineyard. Next Stop Comedy brings a fresh lineup of top comedians straight to Los Olivos for an unforgettable comedy experience. Expect high-energy performances, surprise comics, and nonstop laughter in an intimate vineyard setting. This show is perfect for date night, a fun outing with friends, or anyone who loves live comedy. Lineups change every time, so no two shows are ever the same. Please note: content may include adult humor.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Seating is limited, so arrive early to grab a great seat and enjoy a glass of wine before the show.

graduate with a master’s degree in law enforcement leadership, he will help guide agency-wide law enforcement operations and organizational priorities.

• Custody Chief Deputy Ryan Sullivan completed a master’s degree in public administration from California State University, Northridge and began his career with the Sheriff’s Office in custody operations. He has advanced through supervisory and command ranks, overseeing multiple jail operations and support divisions. With extensive experience in custody leadership and organizational management, he will lead custody operations and program delivery across Sher-

FRIDAY, JAN. 30

HANK AZARIA AND THE EZ STREET BAND, ‘A SPRINGSTEEN CELEBRATION,’ 8 P.M.

Known for their high-energy, authentic renditions of rock icon Bruce Springsteen’s persona and greatest hits, Hank Azaria and The EZ Street Band will bring “A Springsteen Celebration” to the Chumash Casino Resort’s Samala Showroom at 8 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 30. Tickets for the show are $20, $30, $40, $50 and $55.

The EZ Street Band features professional musicians, many with Broadway or major touring experience, with front manAzaria, who is especially recognized for voicing characters on the popular television show, “The Simpsons.” Originally planned as a surprise performance for his 60th birthday party in April 2024, Azaria’s inspiration to put on an authentic Springsteen performance ultimately grew into forming a tribute band just a few months later.

At Chumash Casino, 3400 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez

For tickets/more info: tickets.chumashcasino. com/Events/2026/1/30/hank-azaria-the-ezstreet-band

SATURDAY, JAN. 31

EASY STREET WINE COLLECTIVE OPEN HOUSE, 12 TO 3 P.M.

Join us at the Easy Street Wine Collective — a unique custom crush facility where top Santa Barbara County winemakers come together to share space and equipment, and, more importantly, their passion, expertise, and camaraderie. At this open house event, you’ll have the rare opportunity to meet multiple winemakers, each pouring their limitedproduction, hand-crafted wines. Discover the stories, techniques, and inspiration behind each bottle as the winemakers themselves take you through tastings in the very space where the magic happens. Meanwhile, Chef Melissa from Clean Slate will ensure you’re well-fed, and there will be live music to set the mood and add to the fun. Tickets are $99.

At East Street Wine Collective, 90 Easy St., Buellton

For tickets/more info: www.eventbrite.com/e/ easy-street-wine-collective-open-housetickets-1246204333709

ONGOING

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

Join us indoors on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.

Come to enjoy songs, stories, movement, and a warm welcome. Please make a reservation at

iff’s facilities.

“These promotions reflect the caliber of our people and the rigor of the process,” Sheriff Brown said. “Competition is always tough, and those who emerge successfully have earned the confidence of this organization.”

The following additional promotions were made:

• John Maxwell — Sheriff’s Commander

• Cassandra Marking — Custody Commander

• Selim Celmeta — Custody Commander

• Daniel Nelson Jr. — Sheriff’s Lieutenant

• Justin Haney — Custody Lieutenant

• Luis Espinosa — Custody Lieutenant

www.cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valleylibrary

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 fastestgrowing 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

• Jose Velazquez — Custody Sergeant

Jose Alejo — Custody Sergeant

Nanette Tobin — Administrative Office

Professional Senior

Sheriff Brown emphasized that the guiding principles behind these leadership transitions remain consistent: public service, accountability, and professionalism. He encouraged all newly promoted personnel to lead with the values reflected in the word

SHERIFF: Service, Honor, Ethics, Respect, Integrity, Fairness, and Faithfulness. The ceremony concluded with an oath of office for newly promoted sworn members, followed by a reception for family, friends, and colleagues.