Alma Rosa Winery, a leading wine producer of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Rhône variety wines from Santa Barbara County’s Sta. Rita Hills AVA, announced today that General Manager Debra Eagle will retire at the end of the year, after nearly seven years with the winery and over three decades in the wine industry.

“Debra’s past seven years with Alma Rosa have been game changing, as she has helped elevate our wines and our brand to the top of our region and among the top wines in California,” says Bob Zorich, proprietor of Alma Rosa Winery.

Debra has left an indelible mark on the Alma Rosa estate and the region. Through strategic hirings, including winemaker Samra Morris and consulting winemaker Tony Biagi, and incorporating the highest level of site-specific viticulture, the wines have been recognized with excellent wine critic reviews and press coverage. During her tenure, she also expanded Alma Rosa’s hospitality programming by relocating the winery’s tasting room to an indoor/outdoor space in trendy downtown Solvang, while introducing private guided experiences at the winery’s historic El Jabali estate vineyard.

With the encouragement of the Zorichs to create an event that would benefit mental health nonprofits, Debra launched the winery’s annual Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction in 2020. Over the last five years, this annual community event and cause marketing campaign has raised over $955,000 for two organizations: Santa Barbara County’s Mental Wellness Center and OneMind.

Born and raised in Northern California, Debra earned a B.A. in economics from Mills College and an MBA from the Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley. Before joining Alma Rosa in 2018, she spent more than 25 years directing sales and marketing for both new and iconic wineries in Napa and Sonoma. Debra first entered the wine industry in 1994 at Kenwood Vineyards, overseeing international sales and marketing. She was then director of marketing for Robert Mondavi Winery from 1997 to 2001, followed by three years as director of marketing for Sutter Home. From 2004 to 2008, Debra worked closely with Bill Harlan and Don Weaver to launch BOND, and from 2009 to 2014, she served as general manager of Hestan Vineyards, relaunching the brand and overseeing the construction of its downtown Yountville building and tasting room. She then served as general manager of BR Cohn Winery in Sonoma County and director of business development (international) for its parent company, Vintage Wine Estates.

In retirement, Debra plans to travel frequently to Europe, where she lived from 1987-1993, and spend time with her ever-growing family — six children (three of which are in the wine industry), their spouses, and 10 grandchildren. She also plans to continue her intellectual exploration through courses at her alma mater, University of California, Berkeley.

The team at Alma Rosa remains committed to continuing to build upon the winery’s recent achievements and accolades under Debra’s leadership and in its mission of crafting exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Rhône varietal wines from its El Jabali estate vineyard and select vineyard partners in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA.

About Alma Rosa Winery

Alma Rosa Winery, a leading wine producer from Santa Barbara County’s Sta. Rita Hills, is dedicated to making Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Rhône varietal wines that express the unique terroir of the appellation. Alma Rosa’s wines are layered, vibrant and balanced, reflecting the cool climate impact of the Pacific Ocean breezes that are funneled through the east-west transverse mountain range of the region. The winery was founded in 2005 by Richard Sanford, who was the first to plant Pinot Noir in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA in 1971. Today the winery is owned by Bob and Barbara Zorich, who purchased the winery in 2014. In 2019 Samra Morris took the helm as winemaker, becoming the first Bosnian winemaker in California.

For more information about Alma Rosa Winery, please visit almarosawinery.com.

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While neutrals are a FALL safe choice, there is something to be said about a coat , sweater, or tunic that can instantly brighten the dreariest of days. To provide plenty of impact, try a statement piece in a pastel or a warm hue of cinnamon, turquoise, red, or wine.

There are so many exciting ways to update and brighten your wardrobe right now, so go bold in pieces that work for you and above all, something that makes you feel special.

A new scarf, a new top, or a piece of jewelry can do.

With the holidays just around the corner, we have many items for the lady in your life. Our accessories answer many questions of what to get your special someone. We have tided scarves, famous artist museum scarves, hand painted leather bags, and small and large shoulder bags in many colors and styles.

Also don’t forget our Slim-Sation pants with and without pockets. The basic colors are: black, brown, navy, stone, heather grey, dark denim, and black denim. Elna’s Dress Shop has just what you need, and during the month of December, a gift from me to you, all ladies sweaters, vests, and jackets are 20 percent off original price.

Ladies, how can you resist a bargain like this on the latest pieces that have recently arrived? Come in soon and check out all the name brands that you know we carry. Shopping local helps all of us.

Thank you for shopping at Elna’s Dress Shop, located at 1673 Coppenhan Drive, in Solvang. Have any questions? You can call the store at (805) 688-4525 . Also, like us on our Facebook page or go on our website at www.elnas.com.

We are open Monday and Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Tuesdays. On Christmas Eve, Elna’s will close at 4 p.m., and we’ll be closed on Christmas Day.

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Dr. Hyun K. Lee

Second among patients only to complaints of back pain are aches in the lower limbs, especially the knees and hips. For most people, aside from having an injury to the area, the knees and hips gradually move from experiencing feelings of weakness or numbness, then to occasional pain, and finally to chronic pain. 

Some might write it off as age related or due to a lifetime of walking around, but the root cause of knee and hip pain is very different. 

Major arteries run down your legs supplying blood, oxygen, and nutrients. When there is a disturbance in circulation, it can bring weakness. Over time, if the lack of circulation continues, toxins get trapped in areas of your lower limbs, mainly the joints, and create pain. If that occasional pain is left untreated, chronic pain and a negative physical change in the area occur. 

The main reason for the disturbance in circulation is due to the person being overweight and/or constipated often. When this happens, your internal organs, especially the stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and reproductive organs, become tired and weighty. They begin to lose their original placement and hang somewhat. All of this excess weight puts pressure on the arteries, which cuts off the normal circulation to the lower limbs and limits ascending energy that pulls the blood upwards causing problems in the femoral and knee joints especially. 

Unfortunately, when these issues are present, the weakness, numbness, and pain make it difficult to exercise the excess weight off. Because of this, the problem usually exacerbates until there is a situation significant enough to warrant a knee or hip replacement.  In addition, people (especially women) get varicose veins from the lack of ascending energy, digestive problems, bowel issues, and reproductive problems, including fibrosis and polyps. They also develop weak muscles and tendons throughout their body.

Older people tend to have this problem more than younger people because they have less natural gravity holding energy. Just as the outside of you begins to sag, so does the inside of you.

Happily, before the worst happens, Korean Constitutional acupuncture and herbs can help fix these problems, and put your organs back where they belong, restore circulation, eliminate constipation, joint weakness, numbness, and pain, and quickly help you to get back to a healthier weight through proper diet and exercise. 

If you have a family history of knee or hip issues, it is smart to pay closer attention to your body to prevent these situations from happening. Joint replacement, though effective for some, is a major surgery requiring rehabilitation and often further surgical maintenance. Doing what you can to preserve that which you were born with is always the best, and most painless road to take.

Dr. Lee’s office is located at 175 McMurray Road, Suite G, Buellton. Dr. Lee also has offices in Los Angeles and Paso Robles. To make an appointment call 805-693-5162 or 310-666-8021.

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A project to install a temporary traffic signal at the intersection of Highway 154 and Roblar Avenue near Los Olivos is now underway. 

The underground electrical work for the temporary traffic signal began on Wednesday, Dec. 4. This temporary traffic signal was expected to be fully operational before the Christmas holiday.

This temporary traffic signal will be installed to alleviate the increased traffic at this intersection due to the ongoing roundabout construction at Hwy. 154 and Baseline Avenue. Caltrans conducted an intersection analysis, resulting in the recommendation to provide a temporary signal instead of a four-way stop, to reduce delays at Highway 154 and Roblar Avenue.

“The community spoke, and Caltrans listened,” said County District 3 Supervisor Joann Hartmann. “This temporary all-way stop at SR 154 and Roblar is a direct result of residents raising concerns about safety. We’re grateful for Caltrans’responsiveness and collaboration in taking this important step to protect our community, as this is one step on a broader set of safety measures Caltrans is implementing.”

“I am very gratified to see Caltrans has responded positively to my request, on behalf of the residents of the Santa Ynez Valley, to address the traffic congestion caused by construction of the new roundabout at 154 and Edison,” said Assemblymember Gregg Hart. “Caltrans is now moving swiftly to install an all-way stop at State Route 154 and Roblar Avenue that will improve safety and traffic flow, and also allow construction of the much-needed roundabout to proceed quickly.”

Baseline Avenue/Edison Street is currently closed at its connection to Highway 154. A new traffic alignment on Hwy. 154 at the intersection of Baseline Avenue/Edison Street is now in effect through February 2025. Work includes the construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Hwy. 154 and Baseline Avenue/Edison Street, installation of curb ramps, rumble strips and a lighting system. Businesses are open and accessible along Baseline Avenue/Edison Street during construction. 

The temporary traffic signal at Roblar Avenue and Hwy. 154 will be in place until the completion of the Baseline Avenue/Hwy. 154 roundabout project, which is expected to be complete in Spring 2025.

The contractor for this $8.3 million project is Granite Construction Company of Santa Barbara.

Road information and updates can also be found on Caltrans District 5 social media platforms: X (formerly Twitter) at @CaltransD5, Facebook at Caltrans Central Coast (District 5) and Instagram at @Caltrans_D5. 

Feature Image: An overhead view is shown of the roundabout being built at Highway 154 and Baseline Avenue near Los Olivos. A temporary traffic signal is being constructed at the nearby intersection of 154 and Roblar Avenue, which has seen an increase in traffic because of the roundabout project. Photo Courtesy of Caltrans

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The Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society & DAWG has once again captured hearts and the Harvest Cup at the annual SYV Scarecrow Fest, sponsored by the Solvang Chamber of Commerce. This marks the second consecutive year the organization has won the coveted award, delighting the community with their creative and meaningful scarecrow displays. 

Last year, their scarecrow couple stole the show with a charming wine date. This year, the couple took their relationship to the next level by tying the knot! Their wedding-themed display, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Humane Society, featured the happy couple as bride and groom, supported by a dashing best man and a lovely maid of honor. 

“This contest is a fun way to bring attention to the services we offer, like our low-cost spay and neuter clinic with our veterinarian, Dr. Shana Shank, and training courses led by our talented on-site dog trainer, Serica Morgan,” said Carla Mead, chair of the board for the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society & DAWG. “We hope that by putting our work in the spotlight, we can continue helping pets find their forever homes and make our community a safer, happier place for animals and people alike.” 

Mead also expressed her gratitude to the organization’s dedicated staff: “I want to thank our amazing team, who put their hearts into caring for the animals every single day. Their dedication and hard work inspire me and keep our mission moving forward.” 

After winning the Harvest Cup again, and a successful trunk-and-treat the weekend before Halloween, SYVHS & DAWG will celebrate in December with the Homes For The Howl-idays Winter Wonderland Fundraiser and Adoption Event to take place on Sunday, Dec. 8.

Plenty of adoptable dogs and cats will be on hand to find a forever home, and Santa Claus will make an appearance with pets and humans alike getting the opportunity to have their pictures taken with Ol’ St. Nick. There will also be a bake sale and a hot cocoa bar if you want refreshments. The event will be from 2 to 5 p.m. at the SYVHS & DAWG facility at 111 Commerce Drive in Buellton.

SYVHS & DAWG is proud to be 100 percent donor-funded, relying on the generous support of the community to continue its life-saving work. To learn more about donating, adopting, fostering, volunteering, or the services offered, visit syvhumane.org or call (805) 688-8224. 

The post Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society & DAWG wins SYV Scarecrow Fest for the second year in a row  appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

SOLVANG

Inaugural Copenhagen Countdown set for Dec. 31 at Solvang Park

Join us for our first annual Copenhagen Countdown NYE event. A festive celebration featuring the Molly Ringwald Project, a top drawing ’80s tribute band,  performing live from 2 to 4 p.m. in Solvang Park. Ring in the New Year alongside Denmark at 3 p.m. with this European-style countdown to midnight. Enjoy the delectable offerings from Whiskey ‘N Rye Smokehouse, a barbecue-centric restaurant, which will be serving a variety of delicious festive foods along with a beer, wine, and spirits garden. This is a family-friendly event that everyone will love (weather permitting).

Solvang Christmas Tree Burn rescheduled to Jan. 3, 2025

Supervised by the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, and one of the largest fire safety demonstrations along the California Central Coast, the Solvang Tree Burn is a powerful safety demonstration at the start of the New Year, heralding the end of the Solvang Julefest celebration. The 2025 Tree Burn, which was announced for Jan. 10 is some publications, is actually scheduled for Friday, Jan. 3, 5:00 PM (weather permitting).

Applications sought for to-be-vacated District 3 City Councilmember seat

On Nov. 12, the Solvang City Council voted to appoint a member to fill the vacant City Council seat of David Brown, District 3, after he was elected the city’s mayor. The position will serve until the next General Municipal Election on November 2026.

The City Council is the legislative body of the city and is composed of five members, one of whom is mayor (serving at large), and four who serve by district. The City Council meets the second and fourth Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. Special meetings are called as needed.

Interested parties are encouraged to apply for the vacant City Council seat through the application process. To qualify for consideration, you must be a registered voter and residing within the incorporated City of Solvang and withinDistrict 3, and submit a cover letter, application, and resume to the City Clerk’s Office (cityclerk@cityofsolvang.com) no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025. Paper copies will not be accepted.

Upon successful submittal of your cover letter, application, and resume, the City Clerk’s Office will verify you are a registered voter within District 3 in the City of Solvang.

Each verified applicant will be invited to interview in front of the City Council at an open televised meeting of the City Council. Council has scheduled interviews for Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter in the Council Chamber, located at 1644 Oak St., Solvang, CA 93463. Each qualified applicant will be allowed ample opportunity to address the City Council.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (805) 688-5575 ext. 206 or via email at cityclerk@cityofsolvang.com.

Surrey Night Rides now available for the holidays through Jan. 4

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets — it’s just beginning! Wheel Fun Rentals is excited to announce LED-illuminated 4-Wheel Surrey Night Rides in Solvang for the holidays. Surrey Night Rides are available Fridays and Saturday nights from Dec. 6 to Jan 4. 

Locals and visitors alike will be able to light up the streets with Wheel Fun Rentals’ flagship Surrey Cycles. Colorful LED lights are mounted onto the canopy and frame of the cycle creating an electrifying twilight experience that pairs perfectly with Solvang’s holiday night sky.

Illuminated Surrey night-time rentals will be available from sunset to 8 p.m. every Friday and Saturday evening through Jan 4 at Wheel Fun Rentals’ Solvang location. Pricing is $35 for a Single Surrey (seats up to three adults and two small children), and $45 for a Double Surrey (seats up to six adults and two small children). For more information on LED-Illuminated Surrey Night Rides, visit wheelfunrentals.com/solvang-night-rides

“It’s hard to believe the Surreys could get even more exciting”, says Brian McInerney, Wheel Fun Rentals’ local Solvang owner. “We’re always looking for fun new ways for guests to enjoy Solvang and our products, and lighting up the bikes really makes for an entirely new adventure.”

Wheel Fun Rentals in Solvang is open six days a week (closed on Tuesdays) and offers an extensive fleet of bike rentals. Available rentals include the flagship 4-wheel Surrey cycles, specialty bikes, multi-speed city bikes, electric bikes, cruiser bikes, self-guided bike tours, and more. For location information, hours of operation, and to learn more about Wheel Fun Rentals in Solvang, visit www.wheelfunrentals.com/solvang.

BUELLTON

Alma Rosa to donate part of wine sales to Mental Wellness Center through rest of 2024

In connection with Giving Tuesday (Dec. 3), Alma Rosa Winery, located in Santa Barbara County’s Sta. Rita Hills AVA, has pledged to donate $10 for every bottle of 2022 Alma Rosa North Slope Pinot Noir ($55) sold online and onsite at the Solvang tasting room to Santa Barbara County’s Mental Wellness Center through the end of 2024. The Mental Wellness Center provides on-the-ground mental health support services within the Santa Barbara community.

Alma Rosa Winery has a strong commitment to giving back, and in 2020, Owners Bob and Barb Zorich, along with General Manager Debra Eagle, launched the winery’s annual fundraising walk, “Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction,” to support mental health community services, as well as fund research on the causes, treatment, and potential cures for anxiety and depression. Over the last five years, the winery has raised over $955,000 for the Mental Wellness Center and One Mind. The 2025 Peace of Mind event will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025. Registration information will be announced in January 2025.

“Anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges continue to negatively impact the lives of many in our community,” says Bob Zorich. “Donations from the 2022 Alma Rosa North Slope Pinot Noir holiday campaign will support the important services that the Mental Wellness Center provides its clients and their families.”

To learn more about Alma Rosa’s “Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction” fundraising walk, click here.

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

Sheriff’s Office welcomes five new sheriff’s deputies 

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office welcomed five new sheriff’s deputies and congratulated them upon their graduation from the Allan Hancock College Basic Law Enforcement Academy. The class of 26 recruits completed a comprehensive 22-week course program in California Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), with 862 hours of course instruction. Some of the academy instruction included communication skills, report writing, laws of arrest, search and seizure, firearms, ethics, investigation procedures, patrol techniques, arrest and control, physical training, CPR/First Aid, and emergency vehicle operations.

Just before the graduation ceremony, Sheriff Bill Brown led a swearing-in ceremony where he welcomed new deputies Hector Andrade Jr., Joshua Janecek, Jack Sevier, Melvin Stovall IV, and Christopher Yu. The ceremony, which marks a beginning milestone in each deputy’s career, was shared with their close family members, and included a badge pinning ceremony where recruits have their badges pinned on their uniforms by their mothers, fathers, and significant others. This shared moment marks the culmination of over six months of hard work by the recruit and unwavering support from the family members who stood by them. 

During the graduation ceremony, Sevier was honored with the Emergency Vehicle Operations Course Award for demonstrating the best defensive driving skills.

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

Sheriff’s Office welcomes 15 new custody deputies 

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office welcomed 13 new custody deputies upon their graduation from the Allan Hancock CORE Custody Deputy Academy, as well as two lateral-entry custody deputies. All of these new custody deputies were sworn-in by Sheriff Bill Brown on Friday, Dec. 6, just before the Academy graduation ceremony. The graduating CORE Custody Academy Class #18 included Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Custody Deputies Cameron Binnebose, Benjamin Caudillo, Kimberly Corona-Porras, Ramiro Cortez, Jason Dunn, Hannah Garnica, Isiah Hernandez, Frederick Holland, Alberto Lagunas, Noah Lanier, Ignacio Quevedo Jr IV, Joshua Robinson, and Celeste Sedano. The two lateral-entry deputies were Sierra Selby, who previously served as a sheriff’s service technician with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department and as a juvenile probation officer for Los Angeles County, and Andres Vivanco, who previously served as a jailer with the Lompoc Police Department.

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

Lanier was selected as Class Valedictorian, Binnebose was presented the Santa Maria Elks Lodge Leadership Award, Robinson was presented the Ron Battles “Most Inspirational” award from the Santa Barbara Deputy Sheriff’sAssociation, and Dunn earned the Defensive Tactics award.

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

Sheriff’s Office reminds the community: In case of  

emergency, call if you can — text if you can’t 

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the community that they have the option to send text messages to 9-1-1 during emergencies when voice calls are not feasible or safe.

The service operates under the principle, “Call if you can — text if you can’t.” It is especially beneficial for individuals who are speech-impaired, hard of hearing, deaf, or in situations where making a voice call could endanger their safety.

Susan Farley, manager of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Public Safety Dispatch Center, highlighted an additional advantage: “We have observed that text to 9-1-1 often remains functional during widespread voice cell phone outages.” However, community members are still encouraged to make a voice call if possible and reserve texting for instances when voice communication is not an option.

Critical Information for Texting 9-1-1

The most crucial detail to include in a text to 9-1-1 is the exact location of the emergency. Unlike voice calls, texts do not automatically provide location information to dispatchers.

“The precise location is the most helpful information for us,” said Farley. “Occasionally, texts may be routed to the wrong agency, but we can transfer the details to the appropriate agency.”

Guidelines for Using Text to 9-1-1

• Only use for emergencies. This service is not intended for general inquiries.
• Include a data or text plan. Phones must have an active plan to send messages.
• Avoid roaming mode. Texts will not be delivered when roaming.
• Use plain language. Avoid abbreviations, emojis, photos, or videos.
• Messages can be translated – but it could take a moment. Automated translation is not yet available, so messages are currently manual translated.
• One recipient only. Texts cannot be sent to multiple recipients simultaneously.

All Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office call takers and dispatchers are trained and equipped to respond to 9-1-1 texts. The Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the public of this additional way to reach help during an emergency. For non-emergencies, you can reach the dispatch center at (805) 683-2724 or Sheriff’s Headquarters at (805) 681-4100. Texting is not available for non-emergencies. 

‘They Count, Will you?’: Volunteers needed for the 2025 Homeless Point-In-Time Count

Hundreds of volunteers are needed on Jan. 22, 2025, from 5:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. for the countywide 2025 Homeless Point-In-Time Count.

The Point-In-Time Count is the annual count of individuals and families experiencing homelessness on a given day.  It is put on by The Santa Maria/Santa Barbara County Continuum of Care (CoC), in partnership with the County of Santa Barbara and The Santa Barbara Alliance for Community Transformation (SBACT).

Teams of volunteers will canvas assigned routes throughout Santa Barbara County and will briefly document who is experiencing homelessness. This information is used to plan local homeless assistance systems, justify funding, and raise public awareness.

All volunteers are required to attend a training session. In this 1-hour session, volunteers will learn more about the importance of the count, review canvassing best practices, explore the Point-In-Time survey tool, go through Frequently Asked Questions and more. To make this training as accessible as possible, online trainings are offered on varied days and times between Jan. 14 and 17. Only one training is required. To volunteer, please sign up at countyofsb.pointintime.info/. Volunteers can register as individuals or in teams. The final day to sign up to volunteer is Jan. 17, 2025. Spanish training is available upon request, please email pit@sbact.org by Jan. 13, 2025.

“The Point-in-Time Count results affect everything from homelessness services offered to how much funding is available. It is important we have an accurate count, and we cannot do that without the help of many volunteers. Homelessness is a community-wide problem, and it requires a community-wide solution,” said Matthew Rector, housing program specialist senior with the County of Santa Barbara Community Services Department.

The Point-In-Time count is only possible with a community-wide effort by the incredible support of many volunteers and partners.

All are welcome; please go to countyofsb.pointintime.info/ and let us know if you plan to participate.

The post Santa Ynez Valley Star News Briefs appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Theo Anderson has spent countless hours on the Dunn School baseball field, not just during the Earwigs’ games, but using Dunn’s Fungoman machine to take grounder after grounder with one goal in mind — playing shortstop.

With idols like Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz, Anderson has proven that height is an advantage on the left side of the infield. At 6-foot-8, 240 pounds, Theo has followed the careers of tall infielders like De La Cruz and Pittsburgh Pirates star Oneil Cruz closely, finding inspiration in their ability to dominate the position. Now, Theo is set to make his own mark in collegiate baseball, signing his scholarship agreement on Nov. 13 to play for Saint Mary’s College.

“I look up to Elly and Oneil Cruz,” Anderson said. “Because they’ve shown that you don’t have to fit a certain mold to be great at shortstop. Watching them gave me the confidence to push myself and believe I could do the same.”

St. Mary’s, located in the Northern California town of Moraga, is a Division I school that plays in the West Coast Conference. Head coach Eric Valenzuela has coached the Gaels for seven seasons over two stints; he has also coached at Long Beach State. Last year, the Gaels went 34-22 overall and finished third in the WCC with a 16-8 conference record.

Anderson’s signing ceremony took place in front of family, friends, and the Dunn School community in the school’s Assembly Area, where the towering shortstop celebrated his commitment to the Division I program. His signing comes after a stellar 2024 season, where he ended the regular season ranked among California’s top high school players. According to MaxPreps at the time, Theo finished the season with a .577 batting average (tied for 28th in the state), 6 home runs (also tied for 28th), and a slugging percentage of 1.019 (20th). His on-base percentage of .711 ranked him an impressive 12th statewide.

“Theo represents everything we hope a Dunn student can become,” said Kelsey Sullivan, Dunn’s director of athletics. “He is someone who leads by example. He’s an ‘all-in’ kind of man. He builds community and puts others first. He’s a player everyone would want in their lineup. And he has the right balance of kindness and a playful nature to bring joy and success to any locker room.”

The ceremony was a joyous event for the entire Dunn community. Anderson’s parents, David Anderson and Mary Heyden, sat proudly by his side as he signed his scholarship agreement, while teammates, classmates, and teachers cheered him on. Dunn’s Head of School Kalyan Balaven spoke about Theo’s leadership on campus, not only as an athlete but as a student who exemplifies the school’s values of character and hard work.

“If you’ve seen Theo play, it’s a beautiful thing,” Balaven said. “You see laser focus in his eyes, beauty in motion, and you get to see that at school in his relationships with students and in the classroom. He doesn’t just live on the baseball field, he lives throughout this campus in so many ways. When I saw him with his family at the Saint Mary’s campus and saw him in his element, I couldn’t be more proud.”

For Anderson, the day was about more than just the excitement of playing Division I baseball — it was the culmination of years of hard work and the realization of a dream he’s had since he first picked up a bat.

Dunn School is proud to have supported Theo, who has attended since first stepping on campus as a sixth-grader.

“I’ve always loved this game,” Theo reflected after the event. “Getting to take this next step with Saint Mary’s means the world to me. It’s everything I’ve worked for.

“The facilities here, I get to use them all the time. I’m in the batting cage twice a day, and when I first started working out, it was at the Dunn gym over there. This is where I learned how to put the work in. Before, it wasn’t real. But when I got here, it became real and there were facilities and resources to use.”

As the event concluded, Theo posed for photos with his teammates, coaches, and family, proudly wearing his new Saint Mary’s gear. The reception afterward buzzed with congratulations and well-wishes as the community celebrated Anderson.

With a Division I future ahead of him and his sights set on following in the footsteps of some MLB stars, Anderson is ready for the challenges and opportunities that await him at Saint Mary’s.

About Dunn School: Dunn is a boarding and day school (grades 6-12) nestled in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley. Founded in 1957 from its campus in Los Olivos, Dunn has remained true to its mission of providing whole student education for more than 67 years through its character-based educational pillars: Emotional Wellness, Physical Readiness, Intellectual Growth, Social Responsibility and Moral Courage.

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Attention all seniors in North Santa Barbara County high schools: Submissions for next year’s opportunity to earn the $5,000 NatureTrack Foundation’s Nancy Stearns Scholarship will be due sooner than you think.

The scholarship is geared for a graduating student (2025) from a North Santa Barbara County high school, so applicants should start thinking about what their essay will include and highlight. For your 500-word essay, the committee is interested in your educational and career intentions as they relate to nature as well as your goals within the field of natural science*. 

In addition to the completed application and essay, the student must submit a full high school transcript. Priority will be given to a student with a financial need to pursue higher education. Support is awarded for up to four years based on acceptable performance and continuation towards a bachelor’s degree in the natural science field. The 2025 cycle for  this year’s Nancy Stearn’s Scholarship is open until March 15. You can find all the info and apply on the organization’s website at https://naturetrack.org, under the “Get Involved” tab. 

Sue Eisaguirre, founder and E.D. of NatureTrack Foundation, is very grateful to Brett Stearns, who pledged to underwrite the scholarship in honor of his wife Nancy, who was a docent for NatureTrack since it began in 2011. “We hope this scholarship will provide students with the opportunity to pursue their college education all while fostering a stronger connection to nature,” Eisaguirre said. Stearns’s ongoing commitment ensures Nancy’s legacy will continue to empower and inspire future generations for years to come. 

Docents and committee members Dennis and Carole Nord noted “Nancy had more love and enthusiasm for nature. She was always up for exploring flowers in bloom, birds to be discovered or the latest botanical mystery.” Nancy Stearns pursued the experience in nature for the K-12 students on field trips in our county and proved her love of nature asextremely contagious.  

This is the fifth year for the essay contest. Previous winners include Catalina Kett, who’s at High Point University in North Carolina majoring in biology with a minor in Spanish; Brynley Ellsworth, who is studying botany at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah; Erin Trathern, who is majoring in environmental engineering at Oregon State in Corvallis, Oregon; and Braiden Flaherty, who is at University of California, Santa Cruz, where he is pursuing marine biology.   

The Nancy Stearns Scholarship is broken up into four disbursements with $2,000 awarded the first year and $1,000 awarded year two, three, and four based on acceptable performance. The award is paid directly to the student’s school tuition account. For more information about the NatureTrack Nancy Stearns Scholarship or other ways you can get involved with the NatureTrack Foundation, please visit NatureTrack.org or call Sue Eisaguirre at (805)886-2047, or email her sue@naturetrack.org. 

*Natural science includes any study of nature. Suggested desirable majors to support (not inclusive): biological sciences (botany, aquatic biology, wildlife, ecology, entomology, horticulture, animal science, plant science, etc.), earth sciences (geology, oceanography, geography, remote sensing, cartography), wildlife sciences, outdoor education, and environmental sciences. Please note it does not include agriculture, health or medicine. 

The goal of this scholarship is to support students who will find a career in support of nature: conserving, preserving, researching or sharing nature with others. If there is another major which will prepare you for that goal, please apply and explain your educational path to that goal.

If you plan to study any other topic and intend to apply your knowledge and skills to the natural world, consider applying for this scholarship; go to naturetrack.org/scholarship-application/.

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The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has announced that its annual Chumash Charity Golf Classic raised $135,000 this year, with proceeds split among People Helping People in the Santa Ynez Valley, Hillside House in Santa Barbara and the Cabrillo High School Aquarium in Lompoc.

The tribe’s annual tournament, which spans three days, was held Sept. 24-26 at the River Course at the Alisal in Solvang.           

“It’s our great honor to provide needed funds for these three worthy organizations and their ongoing projects through another successful Chumash Charity Golf Classic,” said Kenneth Kahn, tribal chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians.

People Helping People, which has launched a capital campaign to fund a major construction project at its headquarters in Solvang and expand its services, received $75,000 in proceeds from the charity event. Hillside House and the Cabrillo High School Aquarium, which were selected by Chumash Enterprises employees as beneficiaries, each received $30,000.

People Helping People (PHP), which serves the Santa Ynez Valley, is dedicated to improving the lives of adults and children in the Santa Ynez Valley, Los Alamos, and surrounding communities by addressing emergency and basic needs, furnishing comprehensive integrated family and individual support services, and acting as a catalyst for positive community change. PHP will use these funds to assist with an expansion project.

“The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians inspires us all to build a compassionate community, care for our neighbors and give generously,” said Erica Flores, chief executive officer for People Helping People. “With a heart full of gratitude, People Helping People is honored to receive this leadership gift towards our critical capital project and expansion of our Solvang Service Center in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, serving those with the greatest needs. This gift reflects our shared values and deepens our longstanding relationship. Our connected histories with the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians spans across three decades and is strengthened by our collective belief that we can do the most good, for the most people, when we do it together.”

Hillside House offers residential services for people with a variety of intellectual and developmental disabilities. The mission of Hillside House is to provide a home that supports residents’ efforts to maximize their physical, cognitive, social and emotional abilities so they can attain their highest level of independence in an environment where people are treated with dignity and respect. The organization will use these funds to help hire much-needed direct care staff.

Cabrillo High School Aquarium promotes cross-curricular, hands-on education and strives to emphasize its message of global marine awareness. A student-run facility, the program prepares students to go out into the world in their chosen careers. Students are also able to receive scholarships to continue their studies in marine science and environmental fields. The school’s aquarium program will use these funds to support Phase 2 of the aquarium’s long-term expansion project, which includes six new displays, the development of an all-new gallery annex and increasing the facility’s exhibit floor space by nearly 50 percent.

Since its inaugural event in 2005, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians’ annual golf tournament has raised more than $2 million for local charities and nonprofits. Past beneficiaries have included Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Santa Barbara County, Lompoc Family YMCA, Unity Shoppe, the Alzheimer’s Association California Central Coast Chapter, Good Samaritan Shelter, local schools, local museums, and more.

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has donated more than $30 million to hundreds of groups, organizations andschools in the community and across the nation as part of the tribe’s long-standing tradition of giving. For more information and to access applications, please visit chumash.gov/foundation or call (805) 688-7997.

Feature Image: Kenneth Kahn, tribal chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians (fourth from left); Erica Flores, chief executive officer for People Helping People (fourth from right); and staff and board members for People Helping People pose for a check presentation photo outside of People Helping People in Solvang on Monday, Nov. 4. The Chumash Charity Golf Classic, held in September, raised a total of $75,000 for PHP. Photo Courtesy of Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians

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The Santa Ynez Valley Union High School office staff and administration has chosen SYHS senior Lucas Malloy as the Santa Ynez Valley Elks October Student of the Month.

Lucas is a senior who loves guitar, piano, and banjo. He is also a state lifeguard and loves anything around the ocean, including surfing. One of his favorite classes is advanced auto repair, and he is also in the yearbook class. Lucas is also taking two concurrent enrollment classes, English and economics, that are offered in partnership with Allan Hancock College. He also loves his family farm and the pigs, horses, cows, and chickens.

In addition, Lucas is a recipient of a scholarship to become a pilot at the Santa Ynez Airport. He just completed his first solo flight on Thursday, Sept. 26, and is preparing for his cross-country flight this month.

On top of all those commitments and accomplishments, Lucas maintains an excellent GPA and hopes to attend Hancock College so he can work simultaneously on completing his flight school. Lucas wants to explore many other places as a commercial or private pilot but feels he will come right back to our community because he loves it here.

Lucas accomplished all this before his 18th birthday which is on the Nov. 16. So happy belated birthday and thank you for being a model of what it means to be a Santa Ynez High School student. We are so proud of your accomplishments and know your future is limitless.

Student of the Month is a program sponsored by the Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge. Students are recognized for their grades and school and community involvement. The Elks invest in their communities through programs that help children grow up healthy and drug-free, meet the needs of today’s veterans, and improve the quality of life.

Feature Image: Santa Ynez High senior Lucas Malloy (center) accepts the prize check for winning October’s Elks Student of the Month from Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge Exalted Ruler Bonnie Rees (left) and Elks Scholarship Coordinator Pat Merritt. Contributed Photo

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