The fourth concert of the 2025-2026 season for the Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series entitled “An Afternoon of Soaring Songs,” will take place on Sunday, March 1, at 4 p.m., at St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Espicopal Church.

The concert will feature the rising tenor, Giorgi Guliashvili, and celebrated collaborative pianist, Carrie-Ann Matheson. The program features songs and arias by Liszt, Donizetti, Tosti, Leoncavallo, Verdi, Puccini, and others.

“It is part of the mission of the Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series to showcase up-and-coming musicians such as the wonderful tenor, Giorgi Guliashvili,” said Artistic Director Robert Cassidy. “He is on the cusp of a major international career, and we are so fortunate to welcome him today with the elegant pianist, Carrie-Ann Matheson, who is currently the artistic director of the Merola Program at the San Francisco Opera Center. As a bonus, they are both alumni of the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara.”

Guliashvili is currently a member of the Royal Opera House’s Jette Parker Artists Programme. He began his vocal studies at the Tbilisi State Conservatory, where he performed the roles of Tamino Die Zauberflöte and Alfredo La Traviata. He continued his training at the Accademia del Teatro di San Carlo in Naples under the guidance of the renowned soprano Mariella Devia.

During his time there, he appeared as Cavaradossi in a reduced version of “Tosca” and took on supporting tenor roles in “Anna Bolena” and “Norma.” Giorgi went on to complete postgraduate studies in opera at Yale University and is an alumnus of the San Francisco Opera’s Merola Program. He has received recognition in several international competitions, including winning First Prize at the Gerda Lissner Vocal Competition. Recent roles include Vaudémont (“Iolanta”), Araquil (“La Navarraise”), and Lensky (“Eugene Onegin”).

Matheson has a multi-faceted international career as pianist, conductor, and educator, and since January 2021, the artistic director of the San Francisco Opera Center and the Merola Opera Program. A native of Canada, Matheson began her career at the Metropolitan Opera, where she was a tenured member of the music staff, serving as assistant conductor, prompter, pianist, and vocal coach. The expansion of her European performing career began in 2014 when Maestro Fabio Luisi invited her to join the coaching and conducting staff at Opernhaus Zürich.

Tickets for the performance are free for students, $25 for General Admission, and $45 for Patron Seats, and can be purchased at www.smitv.org/syv-concert-series.html

The March 1 performance is the fourth out of five in the Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series, with the final one scheduled for Sunday, April 26, featuring the Duo Giacopuzzi (Jacopo and Maddalena Giacopuzzi on dual pianos).

The post Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series presents tenor, pianist in ‘An Afternoon of Soaring Songs’ appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

The Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge, in tandem with Santa Ynez High School, has named SYHS senior Natalie Bailey as the January Student of the Month.

Natalie was born in Santa Barbara and has lived in the Santa Ynez Valley for the past 11 years. She brings energy, discipline, and heart to everything she does.

Athletics have been a central part of Natalie’s life — she has played soccer for as long as she can remember and is also deeply involved in both indoor and beach volleyball. This year, she served as team captain and was named Most Valuable Player, honors that speak not only to her athletic ability, but also to her leadership and character. Outside of sports, Natalie enjoys baking, hiking, spending time outdoors, and running — activities that reflect her active and balanced approach to life.

What Natalie enjoys most about being a student at Santa Ynez High School is the strong sense of community within athletics. She has grown significantly in her athletic abilities and takes pride in mentoring younger students, especially freshmen, often stepping into a coaching role to encourage and support them. Having been homeschooled prior to high school, Natalie values the opportunity SYVHS has given her to challenge herself academically through AP and honors classes, where she feels she has gained her strongest academic foundation.

Natalie credits her family as her greatest source of influence and support. Her mom played a key role in her education through homeschooling and has been a constant source of encouragement and guidance. Her dad has been equally supportive of her goals, and her grandparents on both sides of her family provide a strong and loving support system. Surrounded by people who believe in her, Natalie has learned the importance of perseverance, humility, and gratitude.

Academically, Natalie’s favorite subject is math — she describes her brain as being wired to think logically and analytically. At the same time, she enjoys engaging her creative side through art and English, appreciating the balance those subjects provide. One academic accomplishment she is especially proud of is her AP Art portfolio, which focused on creating functional kitchen pottery. This project reflects both her creativity and her attention to detail — qualities that define her work in and out of the classroom. Natalie has taken three Hancock College classes, five honors classes, and five AP classes, and earned a 4.3 weighted GPA.

Natalie motivates herself academically through strong self-expectations and a clear sense of direction. Growing up in a homeschool environment helped her develop independence and a deep understanding of where she wants to go in life. She plans to pursue a career in nursing and is preparing to attend Colorado Christian University to continue her education.

Natalie is also actively involved beyond academics and athletics. She participates in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, and California Scholarship Federation, and she holds leadership roles within her church youth group. In that role, she helps plan activities, leads worship, and teaches Sunday school classes — experiences that have helped her develop patience, confidence, and leadership skills outside of the classroom.

The values Natalie strives to live by are rooted in her Christian faith: respect, kindness, positivity, and treating others well no matter who they are. She contributes to the school community by leading through example — whether on the field, in the classroom, or through her interactions with others.

One of Natalie’s biggest challenges has been managing the pressure she puts on herself to excel in every area — to be a top student, a top athlete, and a leader. Through experiences like preparing for AP exams, balancing work as a barista at Good Seed, and managing her commitments, she has learned the importance of balance, grace, and trusting the process.

When asked what advice she would give to younger students, Natalie shared this thoughtful message:
“Take life lightly. Be present each day. Don’t dwell on the past or worry too much about the future.”

The post Natalie Bailey named Santa Ynez Valley Elks Student of the Month for January appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

As both Presidents Clinton and Obama have stated, “We are a nation of immigrants, but we are also a nation of
laws.”
 
At the same time, we must always be willing to acknowledge difficult truths. While the vast majority of those who have entered this country illegally did so in search of a better life and have remained otherwise law- abiding, there have also been many serious crimes committed by unlawful entrants. Americans across our nation worry about criminal activity by members of violent gangs, organized theft groups, smugglers, and dealers of illicit and often lethal drugs (which killed almost 350 people in our county in just the last three years), and other serious and violent crime committed by undocumented criminals. These have included some
notorious homicides here in Santa Barbara County, including the brutal murder of Marilyn Pharis, a 64-year-old Air Force veteran who was sexually assaulted, strangled, and fatally beaten with a hammer by a repeat undocumented offender who broke into her home in Santa Maria in 2015. The following year, during a sting called Operation Matador in Santa Maria, 13 of the 16 suspects arrested for the MS-13 gang-related murders of 10 victims — and the attempted murder of 14 others — were identified by ICE as undocumented.

These heartbreaking tragedies underscore the need for immigration law and enforcement reforms that protect public safety while still upholding our collective values. Over the past two years, while president of the MCSA, I engaged directly and candidly with members of both the Biden and Trump administrations, as well as with members of Congress and other law enforcement leaders, on the issues of border security, immigration enforcement, their impact on local jurisdictions, and the urgent need for reform. As MCSA president, I was present at the White House when the bipartisan-supported Laken Riley Act was signed into law in January 2025. This law was named after a 24-year-old nursing student who was assaulted with intent to commit rape and beaten to death by an undocumented, repeat offender in Georgia in 2024. The act requires the Department of Homeland Security to detain undocumented criminals who are arrested for certain crimes like burglary, assault on a peace officer, and some thefts, several of which her killer had previously committed. Although I recently passed the gavel to a new MCSA president, I’ll continue my efforts as a member of its executive board, advocating for secure borders and fair, effective, and humane enforcement practices that will keep our nation and its communities safe.
 
It’s important to remember that Americans don’t think alike on undocumented immigration. A Jan. 20, Harvard CAPS (Center of American Political Studies)/Harris Poll of 2,000 likely voters, divided almost equally between Democrats, Republicans, and Independents, showed that the vast majority favored the deportation of undocumented immigrants who have committed violent crime (82%), any crime (73%), and a majority of them (52%) still supported the deportation of all immigrants who are here without legal status. With our nation split in half on the issue of immigration enforcement, there is plenty of contention on both sides. Even though we are polarized, we are all part of the same democratic republic. Again, listening to one another is important. Each side has valid points to make, and both sides matter. Although our country is deeply divided on immigration, sooner or later we must find a solution to this problem. This complex and deeply emotional issue will only be resolved through meaningful changes to existing immigration law, with related changes in enforcement policy, training and practices. I believe there are some areas where consensus or compromise is possible. That change should include thoughtful reform that properly addresses border security and public safety, while at the same time ensuring fairness, proportionality, and humanity in enforcement and detention operations. That reform should also allow federal authorities appropriate access to our nation’s jails, so they can safely take undocumented criminal offenders into custody there, instead of doing so unsafely and alarmingly in our neighborhoods.

In the meantime, everyone should adhere to the law, and it should be enforced fairly, courteously, and professionally. We can support the law, or we can work to change it, while still having empathy and compassion for others. We must support the right to peaceful protest and civil discourse, whether we agree or disagree with what’s being said. Respect and decency must remain the standard.
 
Abraham Lincoln once warned that “a house divided against itself cannot stand.” While the challenges before us are complex and difficult, we owe it to one another to engage on issues respectfully, seek common ground, and urge our congressional leaders to work together in good faith, compromise, and craft and pass comprehensive bipartisan immigration reform. That is the key to meaningful change in the immigration quandary.

The post On immigration, two viewpoints: Can both be valid? appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Solvang Community Cleanup, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Solvang residents: Get rid of your household trash, scrap metal, green waste, wood. and bulky items for free. Residential customers only. To participate, please bring a valid photo ID and your WM bill showing a matching service address.

Accepted items for free disposal

• Household Trash — must be bagged or boxed (no loose items)

• Green Waste — keep separate from trash

• Wood — untreated only (no railroad ties or treated lumber)

• Scrap Metal — motors must be drained of gas and oil

• Bulky Items — includes unusable furniture, ma resses, and other large household items

No electronic or hazardous waste accepted

At Parking Lot 5, corner of Oak and Second streets, Solvang

For questions/more info, call City of Solvang at (805) 688-5575

Volunteer Garden Guide Training, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Are you passionate about plants? Looking for an excuse to get outdoors this Spring? Then being a volunteer Garden Guide is for you! As warm weather sets in for spring and summer, we are looking for volunteer docents to help lead garden tours during the busier months of the year. With opportunities to get involved in various areas of education, events, and many other ways, the garden could use your help to grow! Join us on Saturdays to learn more about the garden and how you can get involved.

Click the link to sign up for trainings: forms.gle/2dAWeNkypMWVefbj6

At Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, River View Park, Buellton

For more info: santaynezvalleybotanicgarden.org/events

SATURDAY, FEB. 28

CASA is Going Disco, 5 to 9 p.m.

Join CASA of Santa Barbara County for a dazzling night inspired by the glitz, glamour, and golden glow of Studio 54 — all in support of our community’s most vulnerable children. This year’s annual fundraiser will transport you to a world of vintage velvet ropes and sparkling style, with curated appetizers, a gourmet meal, and signature cocktails that shine as bright as a mirrorball.

This groovy event will feature exclusive live and silent auction items, inspiring stories, and a powerful opportunity to ensure that every child in foster care has a dedicated, caring advocate by their side.

At Chumash Casino Resort, Samala Showroom, 3400 Highway 246, Santa Ynez

For tickets/more info: e.givesmart.com/events/wgw/

Love Above All Ball benefiting SYV Pride, 7 to 10 p.m.

The third annual Love Above All Ball on Feb. 28 is an incredible way to support SYV Pride and help us create a kinder and more welcoming Valley for all. As our biggest fundraising event of the year, your ticket purchase goes directly to supporting Pride events in 2026, including our landmark Pride Parade and Festival, as well as our youth scholarship and Youth Connect programs. This year we are switching things up a bit and moved to a fully indoor venue at @crafthouseatcorque where will transform the ballroom and bar area to an elegant and elevated space that’s warm and welcoming. Also, we are opening it up to age 18+, and there’s a special ticket price for young adults ages 18-20! We are of course keeping some things the same — like our top-notch silent auction, psychic love readings for singles and couples, hearty hors d’oeuvres, and incredible music to dance the night away!

At Craft House@Corque, 420 Alisal Road, Solvang

For tickets/more info: www.syvpride.org/event-details/third-annual-love-above-all-ball

SYV Concert Series: Evening of Italian Music, 4 to 6 p.m.

Please join us for an afternoon of Italian music, with songs by Rossini, Bellini, and Donizetti, Neapolitan songs, and Arias from “L’elisir d’amore,” “Rigoletto,” and “La Boheme.” International vocal prizewinner Giorgi Guliashvili, praised for his “tender and powerful singing,” and Carrie-Ann Matheson, conductor and recital pianist and the Artistic Director of the San Francisco Opera Center and Merola Opera Program, will perform.  Students attend​ for free. General Admission tickets are $25. Patron tickets are $45.

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

For tickets, more info: https://www.smitv.org/syv-concert-series.html

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 www.cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valley-library

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: Solvang Library (805) 688-4214

WEDNESDAYS

Solvang Farmers Market, 2:30 to 6 p.m.

Each week, the farmers in the marketplace display a colorful bounty of agricultural products grown right in our backyard. Seasonal diversity is available year-round rain or shine. Come. Shop. Socialize. Certified — the only way to buy! Join us in downtown Solvang every Wednesday on First Street, between Mission Drive (Highway 246) and Copenhagen Drive.

Wine Wednesdays in Buellton, 4 to 8 p.m.

Please join us for an evening out with family fun for all in Buellton, hosted by Esfuerzo Wines and The Birria Boyz. This event will take place each Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Each week we will have guest food vendors, live music and much more to be announced. We hope to see you there!

At 140 Industrial Way, Buellton

For more info: info@esfuerzowine.com

SPORTS AND RECREATION

ONGOING

Pickleball, Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Pickleball — part Ping-Pong, part badminton, lots of momentum — is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. The games can be fast-paced and deliver a good workout. 2 person teams/ or singles. All are welcome!

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

Drop-In Adult Basketball, Year Round, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 6 to 7:15 a.m.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

Open Basketball, Ongoing, Mondays, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

For info on these and other programs, go to buelltonrec.com

The post Calendar: February 21 – February 28 appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

The Board of Santa Barbara Strings is pleased to announce the appointment of Santa Barbara County resident Kyle Abello as the organization’s first executive director. This position will work with Santa Barbara Strings founder and Artistic Director Mary Beth Woodruff to fulfill the mission of providing quality training and education for young string musicians.

“We are so pleased to add Kyle Abello to our team at Santa Barbara Strings and the addition of the position of executive director reflects the incredibly healthy growth of our organization, now in its 16th year,” Woodruff said. “Kyle is a masterful organizer, effective utilizer of local resources/networks, and well-loved by our board of directors and parents of our young musicians.”

Abello was pleased to be able to take on the position.

“I’ve been on the Santa Barbara Strings Board for two years now, and it’s been a joy to work with a group of people dedicated to giving the highest level of music education and strings training to kids from all over the County,” he said. ” After 16 years of existence as a youth nonprofit, it was time for our organization to have an executive director, and I feel honored to have been chosen to be the first person to serve in this role.”

Abello said he would be taking care of the administrative tasks, grants, and fundraising efforts so that Woodruff can focus on teaching the program’s young string players. 

“Mary Beth is an amazing professional violinist and an equally amazing educator,” he said. “We are so fortunate to have her as a long time Valley resident sharing her expertise with younger generations of aspiring violinists, violists, cellists, and double bass players.

Abello was raised in the Santa Ynez Valley, attended Santa Ynez High School, and graduated from UC San Diego summa cum laude with a major in biology and minor in humanities.

He was the founder of the Buellton Recreation Department and served as recreation director for the City of Buellton for 20 years, during which time he helped to establish the Buellton Community Recreation Center, the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, PAWS Off-Leash Dog Park, and many community events and recreational programs that continue to benefit the local community.

Kyle has also served on the boards of the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation, Santa Ynez Valley Chorale, Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District, and currently serves on the College Elementary School District Board.

Kyle has always loved classical music, especially the Baroque era, and he feels incredibly blessed to be able to serve in his new role with Santa Barbara Strings to support the next generation of musicians.  

Kyle lives in Santa Ynez with his wife, Yana, and their twins, Skylar (violin) and Tristan (cello), are enjoying the fantastic music education and ensemble environment of Santa Barbara Strings. To contact him, please e-mail sbstringsdirector@gmail.com

Santa Barbara Strings is a nonprofit organization providing comprehensive training for musicians from ages 4 to 19 in three progressive levels of string orchestras and chamber ensembles. Recent graduates of this exceptional string orchestra program are attending the Juilliard School of Music and the Colburn School of Music. Open to all students, Santa Barbara Strings aims to inspire life-long understanding and appreciation of classical music of all eras.

The program has expanded to offer and introductory strings program, the Buellton String Project, where Santa Ynez Valley kids can sign up to learn the violin or cello through instruction at the Buellton Recreation Center instead of having to travel to Santa Barbara. In October, the Buellton City Council approved a $20,000 grant for the program during a regular meeting in October. Woodruff even performed a number with a young student during the meeting.

“We are so grateful for the generous support of the Buellton City Council in awarding Santa Barbara Strings an Arts & Culture grant to create the Buellton Strings Project,” Abello said. “This program is laying the foundation for early strings education, and we hope the city will continue to support music for Buellton kids and families in the coming years.

“It would be wonderful to expand strings education in the Valley to the point where there are enough kids to form a Santa Ynez Valley String ensemble as a satellite of the larger SB Strings orchestra program.”
 
For more information on the Santa Barbara String and its program in Buellton, please visit www.santabarbarastrings.org

The post Kyle Abello named executive director of Santa Barbara Strings appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

MONDAY, FEB. 9

Solvang City Council, 6:30 p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, FEB. 10

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors, 9 a.m.

At Betteravia Government Center, 511 Lakeside Pkwy, Santa Maria

For more info: countyofsb.org

Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District, 5:30 p.m.

At Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, Administrative Building, 2975 East Highway 246 Santa Ynez

For more info: syvuhsd.org

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 11

Santa Barbara County Planning Commission, 9 a.m.

At Betteravia Government Center, 511 Lakeside Pkwy, Santa Maria

For more info: countyofsb.org

Los Olivos Community Services District, 6 p.m.

At St Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church, Stacy Hall,

2092 Nojoqui Ave., Los Olivos

For more info: www.losolivoscsd.com

THURSDAY, FEB. 12

Buellton City Council, 6 p.m.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

THURSDAY, FEB. 19

Solvang Design Review Committee, 5 p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

Buellton Planning Commission, 6 p.m.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

EVENTS

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, FEB. 6-7

Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure

The Garagiste Festival returns to Solvang for its 12th Southern Exposure event. This celebrated wine festival offers rare access to California’s most exciting small-production winemakers. Discover bold, expressive wines from micro-production wineries across the Central Coast. Many of these winemakers do not have tasting rooms. Some sell out every vintage. This is your chance to taste their wines and meet them face-to-face.

Named the #1 Wine Festival in the Country by USA Today, the Garagiste Festival is known for its intimate setting and unmatched access. The event takes place indoors at the Mission-style Solvang Veterans’ Memorial Hall. Tickets are limited and prices start at $79. Lines are short. Conversations are personal. Early Access and Weekend Pass guests enjoy extended tasting time before the main crowd arrives.

At Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For tickets/more info: www.garagistefestival.com/solvang-2026-fest

FRIDAY, FEB. 6

WAR at Chumash Casino and Resort, 8 p.m.

Legendary American funk-rock band WAR brings their electrifying, genre-blending sound to the Samala Showroom at Chumash Casino Resort on Friday, Feb. 6, at 8 p.m. Tickets are available for $50, $60, and $70.

Formed in 1969, WAR emerged from a collaboration between British singer Eric Burdon and a collective of California musicians united by a passion for social justice and musical innovation. Their signature fusion of funk, soul, rock, R&B, Latin, and jazz quickly set them apart with hits like “Spill the Wine,” “Low Rider,” and “Why Can’t We Be Friends.” Today, the band features founding member Leroy “Lonnie” Jordan alongside an accomplished lineup of musicians, continuing a career that has earned 17 gold, platinum, and multi-platinum awards.

At Chumash Casino and Resort, 3400 Highway 246, Santa Ynez

For tickets/more info: https://tickets.chumashcasino.com/Events/2026/2/6/war

SATURDAY, FEB. 7

SYV Polar Bear Plunge, 8 to 10 a.m.

Join us bright and early at the SYHS Pool Deck 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!

At Santa Ynez High Pool Deck, 2975 Mission Drive, Solvang (pool located next to Refugio Road)

For more info: www.syvaquatics.org

SUNDAY, FEB. 15

Kid Craft Art Workshop: Animal Portrait Paper Mosaics, 1 to 3:30 p.m.

Join the California Nature Art Museum for a colorful, hands-on art workshop led by beloved artist Katherine Taylor of Poetry Frog. In this family-friendly class, kids and adults will create cheerful animal portrait paper mosaics using vibrant, patterned papers. Participants may bring a favorite animal photo, like a pet, or choose from inspiring examples provided. Katherine guides each step, making the process fun, creative, and approachable for all skill levels.

This workshop welcomes all ages. Children 11 and under must attend with a paid, participating adult, and full-family participation is encouraged. Expect laughter, creativity, and artwork you’ll be proud to take home.

The class fee is $35 for CalNAM members and $40 for non-members. All supplies are included. Space is limited to 15 participants, and advance registration is required.

At California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: Email Assistant Director Rachel Metz at rachel@calnatureartmuseum.org or go to www.calnatureartmuseum.org/

THURSDAY, FEB. 19

SYVHS: ‘The Once and Future King of the Skies,’ lecture, 7 p.m.

Our Central Coast region, and especially Los Padres National Forest, has played an out-sized role in the California condor’s natural history and its ongoing recovery. In this live lecture and Zoom webinar, Bryant Baker, the director of advocacy and education for the nonprofit Runners for Public Lands group, will explore some of the fascinating and lesser-known history of condors in our region, how their current local populations are faring, and what the future holds for the species. He will also share unique maps he has created showing condor movements across the landscape. Those interested can attend live at Solvang Library or by Zoom. The Zoom link can be found at syvnature.org/the-once-and-future-king-of-the-skies-an-eco-historical-overview-of-the-california-condorfebruary-19-2026/.

The lecture is co-sponsored by the Santa Ynez Valley Natural History Society and the library.

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: syvnature.org/the-once-and-future-king-of-the-skies-an-eco-historical-overview-of-the-california-condorfebruary-19-2026/

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 www.cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valley-library

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: Solvang Library (805) 688-4214

WEDNESDAYS

Solvang Farmers Market, 2:30 to 6 p.m.

Each week, the farmers in the marketplace display a colorful bounty of agricultural products grown right in our backyard. Seasonal diversity is available year-round rain or shine. Come. Shop. Socialize. Certified — the only way to buy! Join us in downtown Solvang every Wednesday on First Street, between Mission Drive (Highway 246) and Copenhagen Drive.

Wine Wednesdays in Buellton, 4 to 8 p.m.

Please join us for an evening out with family fun for all in Buellton, hosted by Esfuerzo Wines and The Birria Boyz. This event will take place each Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Each week we will have guest food vendors, live music and much more to be announced. We hope to see you there!

At 140 Industrial Way, Buellton

For more info: info@esfuerzowine.com

SPORTS AND RECREATION

ONGOING

Pickleball, Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Pickleball — part Ping-Pong, part badminton, lots of momentum — is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. The games can be fast-paced and deliver a good workout. 2 person teams/ or singles. All are welcome!

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

Drop-In Adult Basketball, Year Round, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 6 to 7:15 a.m.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

Open Basketball, Ongoing, Mondays, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

For info on these and other programs, go to buelltonrec.com

The post Calendar: February 6 – February 19 appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

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.

The post Danielle Hyland named SYV Elks Lodge Student of the Month for December appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

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 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.

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 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.

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 Charleston 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.

The post Michele Miller Maxwell named to SNHU President’s List appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

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 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/syv-concert-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 Poetry 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.calnatureartmuseum.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.

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 man Azaria, 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-ez-street-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 limited-production, 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-house-tickets-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 www.cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valley-library

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: Solvang Library (805) 688-4214

WEDNESDAYS

Solvang Farmers Market, 2:30 to 6 p.m.

Each week, the farmers in the marketplace display a colorful bounty of agricultural products grown right in our backyard. Seasonal diversity is available year-round rain or shine. Come. Shop. Socialize. Certified — the only way to buy! Join us in downtown Solvang every Wednesday on First Street, between Mission Drive (Highway 246) and Copenhagen Drive.

Wine Wednesdays in Buellton, 4 to 8 p.m.

Please join us for an evening out with family fun for all in Buellton, hosted by Esfuerzo Wines and The Birria Boyz. This event will take place each Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Each week we will have guest food vendors, live music and much more to be announced. We hope to see you there!

At 140 Industrial Way, Buellton

For more info: info@esfuerzowine.com

SPORTS AND RECREATION

ONGOING

Pickleball, Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Pickleball — part Ping-Pong, part badminton, lots of momentum — is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. The games can be fast-paced and deliver a good workout. 2 person teams/ or singles. All are welcome!

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

Drop-In Adult Basketball, Year Round, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 6 to 7:15 a.m.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

Open Basketball, Ongoing, Mondays, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

For info on these and other programs, go to buelltonrec.com

The post Calendar January 23 – February 5 appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Ashlee Buzzard of Lompoc entered a not guilty plea to murder charges on Friday, Dec. 26, in the death of her daughter Melodee Elani Buzzard, the subject of an over-two-month search that ended when her remains were found in Utah.

KSBY-TV reported that the plea and denial of special allegations of discharge of a firearm causing death and murder by lying in wait were entered during Ashlee Buzzard’s arraignment in a Santa Maria courtroom before Santa Barbara County Superior Court Judge John McGregor on Dec. 26.

Prosecutor Jordan Lockey announced at the hearing that the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office would not be seeking the death penalty against Buzzard, 40, but would be seeking life in prison without the possibility of parole, according to KSBY.

Three days earlier, on Dec. 23, Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown had announced that the remains of Melodee, a 9-year-old child reported missing from the Lompoc area in October 2025, had been located in a rural area outside of Caineville, Utah, and that her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, had been arrested for her murder.

At approximately 7:51 a.m., members of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, served search and arrest warrants at the Buzzard residence in Lompoc. Ashlee Buzzard was taken into custody without incident and booked at the Santa Barbara County Northern Branch Jail for first-degree murder. She is currently being held without bail.

“This is an extraordinarily tragic case involving the murder of a child by the very person she relied upon and trusted the most,” Sheriff Brown said. “While maternal filicide is rare and difficult to comprehend, the evidence in this case clearly indicates a calculated, deliberate, and ruthless act.”

Investigation overview

From the moment Melodee Buzzard was reported missing, Sheriff’s detectives pursued every investigative lead with urgency, discipline, and compassion. Detectives worked simultaneously on multiple fronts, including continuous tracking of Ashlee Buzzard’s movements, while other investigators focused on the exhaustive collection and analysis of physical, digital, and forensic evidence.

Throughout the investigation, detectives encountered deliberate efforts to prevent them from locating Melodee and uncovering the truth. Despite these obstacles, Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office investigators remained  methodical and relentless, relying on evidence when cooperation was withheld and overcoming barriers placed in their path. Their unwavering commitment ultimately led to today’s arrest.

Timeline of key investigative milestones

While this remains an active criminal case, investigators shared the following confirmed milestones:

• Oct. 14, 2025: A school administrator reported Melodee’s prolonged absence. Deputies responded to the family’s residence in the 500-block of Mars Avenue in Lompoc and contacted her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, who provided no verifiable explanation for Melodee’s whereabouts.
• Oct. 15, 2025: Detectives served a search warrant at the Mars Avenue residence. Investigators learned Ashlee Buzzard had recently rented a vehicle, and surveillance images showed her and Melodee at the rental office wearing wigs, apparently to conceal their identities. These images were released publicly on Oct. 22.
• Oct. 24, 2025: Detectives released a detailed travel timeline documenting a multi-state round-trip travel route that included California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska with a return route including Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and California. Investigators learned Ashlee Buzzard switched license plates and backed into gas stations to avoid surveillance cameras. Melodee was last seen on video with Ashlee on Oct. 9, 2025, near the Colorado-Utah border. Investigators now believe Melodee was murdered shortly after that point.
• Oct. 30, 2025: Sheriff’s detectives and the FBI Evidence Response Team served additionalsearch warrants at the Mars Avenue residence, at a storage unit, and upon the rental vehicle. An expended cartridge case was recovered from the residence, and a live round of similar ammunition was located in the vehicle. The cartridge case was submitted to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for entry into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network, a firearms-related evidence database.
• Dec. 6, 2025: The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office in Utah responded to a report of a decomposed body discovered off the roadway near the 3300-block of East State Route 24 in a remote area of Wayne County.
• Dec. 8, 2025: Wayne County authorities notified the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office of the unidentified remains. The decedent was determined to be female and had died from gunshot wounds to the head.
• Dec. 17, 2025: Cartridge cases recovered in Utah were compared by the ATFE and determined to be linked to the cartridge case recovered from the Mars Avenue residence.
• Dec. 22, 2025: FBI Crime Lab analysis confirmed that the remains discovered in Utah were a familial DNA match to Ashlee Buzzard.
• Dec. 23, 2025: Ashlee Lynn Buzzard was arrested for the murder of her daughter, Melodee Buzzard.

Partner agencies

This investigation required extensive coordination across multiple jurisdictions. The Sheriff’s Office recognized the contributions of numerous partner agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, California Department of Justice, Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office, Santa Barbara County Child Welfare Services, Lompoc Unified School District, Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue, and multiple law enforcement agencies across Utah, Colorado, and Nebraska.

Community and family acknowledgment

“The loss of Melodee Buzzard is heartbreaking,” Brown said. “We hoped against hope that she would be found alive. This outcome is devastating.”
The Sheriff’s Office extended its deepest condolences to the Meza and Buzzard families and thanked members of the public and media nationwide for their engagement, tips, and continued attention to the case.
“This investigation does not end here,” Brown said. “We remain committed to working closely with prosecutors to ensure justice is pursued with integrity, care, and compassion. Melodee deserved a far better life, and she will never be forgotten.”
Because this case is now proceeding through the court system, additional details are limited at this time.

The post Ashlee Buzzard pleads not guilty to murder charges in death of her daughter appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.