Once again, the Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church will be hosting the annual Nativity Pageant. Autumn Van der Linden will be directing the event, which will take place on Sunday, Dec. 14, beginning at 4 p.m., featuring live animals for petting, courtesy of Seein’ Spots Farm, along with animals from members of the 4-H Club, coordinated by Debbie Jones. Coffee will be provided by Holy Grounds, followed at 5 p.m. with the Nativity Pageant, which will be held in the Sanctuary. 

C.J. Jackson will return as narrator with Sean and Melissa Diggins as Mary and Joseph. 

“This year I’m hoping to have the cast members interacting more with the audience,” said Van der Linden. “We will also have Christmas music playing outside for atmosphere and some Bethlehem backdrops for those who would like to take a Christmas photo.” 

“The adult choir is grow- ing, so they will be performing even more songs this year. Anyone who would like to join the choir who is of high school age or older is welcome to join,” she added. “This year the choir will include two new members of the church, the new church pastor, Gunnar Tesdahl, and his assistant, Lauren Thill. 

“The children’s choir is also growing ever stronger and will be performing as angels and shepherds. If your children would like to participate, ages preschool through sixth grade are also welcome. Costumes will be provided. Even if they can’t make it to rehearsals, they are still welcome. Simply email office@syvpc.org and I will make arrangements for your child to participate,” said Van der Linden. 

The rehearsal dates and times can be found at www. syvpc.org/solvangnativitypageant. 

Harpist Emma Tesdahl will once again be performing, as will the Santa Barbara Strings, led by Mary Beth Woodruff. Additionally, a duet will be performed by mother and son, Sarah and Judah Kiser. 

Alan Satch well will be directing the adult and live worship band during the pageant. 

“Following the closing of the pageant, everyone is invited to enjoy our after-show fellowship time in the adjacent Family Center building, featuring food for purchase (Lucca Pizza, Soup and Chili bar, baked goods) and free activities for kids (crafts, cookie decorating, hot chocolate bar),” said Ruthy Gallo, who is in charge of the post- show. “Food tickets will be sold on-site the night of the show (cash only), as well as in the church office from Dec. 8 through 12 during office hours.” 

“This year both of my children, ages 3 and 7, will be singing in the choir,” said Van der Linden. “We have been practicing, and they are so excited. I am so blessed that I am able to pass along this moment in time for them to remember when they are both grown up. I, too, will be taking the stage again to perform a solo along with the choir for the finale.” 

This year, there will also be overflow seating available in the Holy Grounds Coffee Shop with a live screen. 

“I encourage people to come early as parking spaces fill up fast,” said Van der Linden. “Also, getting in line early will guarantee a seat inside the Sanctuary.” 

“This is a non-denominational community event,” she added. “All the choir members and the cast come from different churches in the Valley and Lompoc, and the children are from all the schools in the Valley as well. The Nativity Pageant is a free Valley-wide community Christmas event although donations are gratefully appreciated to cover the costs for this beautiful event. Everyone is invited to attend.” 

For more information, email office@syvpc.org or call (805) 688-6323 between 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. 

The Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church is at 1825 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang. 

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GOOD MEDICINE 

By Dr. Hyun K. Lee 

For decades, modern medicine has approached diabetes primarily through the lens of pancreatic dysfunction — a problem of insulin deficiency or resistance. This view has shaped nearly all therapeutic strategies: insulin injections, glucose-lowering drugs, and dietary restrictions designed to control blood sugar by compensating for the pancreas. 

Yet, this narrow focus has obscured a deeper truth: the liver plays an equally vital, if not greater, role in glucose regulation. The liver governs how glucose is produced, stored, and released. It is also the body’s main site of protein synthesis, including the enzymes that convert glucose into glycogen for muscular storage. When hepatic protein synthesis declines — whether from aging, inflammation, or nutritional imbalance — the muscles lose their ability to store glucose effectively. The result is persistent hyperglycemia, even when insulin is present and functioning. 

In other words, many diabetic patients are not suffering only from a pancreatic disorder but from a hepatic-protein dysfunction that distorts the body’s entire energy economy. 

From the standpoint of acupuncture and traditional Korean medicine, this insight carries profound implications. The liver is regarded as the organ that “governs the smooth flow of Qi and blood.” In modern physiological terms, this corresponds to hepatic circulation, detoxification, and metabolic regulation. When liver function is restored — both energetically and biochemically — the body’s protein metabolism improves, muscular glucose uptake increases, and blood sugar levels stabilize naturally. 

Acupuncture offers a uniquely systemic approach. By stimulating key points that modulate hepatic circulation and autonomic balance, we can enhance the liver’s enzymatic activity and protein synthesis, indirectly improving glucose metabolism. Rather than forcing the pancreas to compensate, we help the liver restore metabolic harmony throughout the body. 

This hepato-centric model does not reject the pancreatic framework; it complements it. Insulin remains important — but it cannot act efficiently if the liver’s biochemical foundation is compromised. Supporting hepatic recovery through acupuncture, nutrition, and lifestyle medicine allows for a more sustainable glycemic balance — less dependent on medication and more aligned with the body’s own physiology. 

Clinically, this perspective is especially valuable for patients with fatigue-dominant diabetes, muscle loss, or age-related metabolic decline. Such individuals often experience unstable blood sugar despite medication. When hepatic circulation improves and protein metabolism is reactivated, they regain vitality, their energy stabilizes, and blood glucose levels become easier to manage. 

In essence, the liver is not an accessory to glucose control — it is the biochemical conductor. To truly manage diabetes, we must look beyond the pancreas and toward the metabolic orchestra it leads. 

Modern acupuncture medicine offers a bridge between ancient understanding and modern biochemistry: a way to heal the root, not just the symptom. 

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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Solvang has announced new facets to its annual holiday celebration, Julefest, the magical time of year when Solvang’s charm reaches peak heights. The 2025-26 edition of Solvang Julefest returns to the Santa Ynez Valley wine country destination on Friday, Nov. 28, uns through Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026. The celebration will once again include multiple holiday-themed happenings all located within the town. 

Included in this festive roster are the nightly Light, Music & Snow Shows in Solvang Park (corner of Mission Drive and First Street), which run throught the entire Julefest. The holiday-themed, choreographed light and music display, right in the center of Solvang’s historic village, features two different 10-minute shows that will alternate on the hour each evening. Showtimes will be every hour on the dot from 5 to 9 p.m., and at the end of each show, Solvang Park will be dusted with a flurry of season- ally-appropriate snow. 

One of the new daily occurrences throughout Solvang Julefest will be located within Solvang restaurant and bar, Craft House At Corque, as they host MIRACLE – The Christmas Cocktail Pop-Up Bar, from Nov. 18 through Jan. 4, 2026. Miracle, as described on the concept’s website, “is a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar that serves holiday cocktails in a festive setting. With kitschy holiday décor, professionally-developed cocktails and the nostalgic energy of the best office party you’ve ever been to, Miracle is sure to get even the grouchiest grinch in the holiday spirit.” Craft House At Corque is taking reservations for the holiday cocktail conversion via Tock, with two different reservation options, “Miracle Family,” during “Family Hours,” and “Miracle 21+,” with reservations available at any time. Information will also be posted to Instagram: @ miracleatcrafthouse. 

New to this year’s Solvang Julefest lineup are storytime sessions with local authors, Adam and Kate McHugh, as the couple launches their first children’s book, Ferd and the Magic Hat: A Solvang Christmas Story. The new release, illustrated by Allie Daigle, spins a whimsical and joyful Christmas tale for children and their “grownups” who read along, as it celebrates the community, the heritage, the “hygge,” and the bright welcome of Solvang during the holidays. 

“Every year we try to find new ways to add just a bit more charm to our enchanting Danish village holiday celebration, Solvang Julefest. Julefest’s fun festivities provide entertaining options for all ages, for our locals and our visitors, with new daytime events and extra evening magic,” said Randy Murphy, Solvang’s city manager. “Consider this the season when storybook Solvang takes a Christmas turn, making this one of the most celebrated winter holiday destinations.” 

Additional, daily Solvang Julefest activities include the annual Nisser Adventure, where, between Nov. 28 and Jan. 4, participants of all ages join in a city-wide hunt for the mysterious Solvang Nisser (Christmas elves) which have hidden themselves through- out downtown Solvang. Once participants have found each Nisse, they may return to the Visitor Center to receive a special Solvang keepsake. 

Solvang Julefest also provides cheerful holiday shopping opportunities with a Makers Market in Solvang Park, happening three Wednesdays in December (Dec. 3, 10, 17; 3 to 7 p.m.). 

Solvang Julefest tour options include the evening Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours offered on select dates, complete with Christmas carols and an entertaining education about some Danish traditions and Solvang history. The tours’ daytime counterpart, Solvang Jul Daylight Tours, are morning experiences (10 a.m. start) also led by a local Dane dressed in traditional folk garb. Returning to this year’s Solvang Julefest is the Solvang Trolley Christmas Light Tour, whisking hot chocolate-fueled Trolley riders through the Santa Ynez Valley for a nighttime glimpse of local light displays. Details and ticket sales for each tour will be available online at solvangusa. com/things-to-do/solvang-ju-lefest/ 

The first weekend in December features the Solvang Julefest Tree Lighting Ceremony, set for Friday, Dec. 5, at 5 p.m. in Solvang Park (tree lighting occurs at about 6:30 PM), and the 2025 Solvang Julefest ParadeSaturday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m.) with marching bands, horses, classic cars, plus more parade floats and entries, all traveling along Solvang’s main streets. Post-parade, Julefest boasts an opportunity to meet Mr. Claus in Solvang Park. 

Now in its second year, Solvang Julefest’s New Year’s event, “Copenhagen Count- down,” parties in Solvang Park on Wednesday, Dec. 31, from 2 to 4 p.m., with a family-friendly countdown to New Year’s in Denmark (3 p.m. PST). The event will feature live music by the Molly Ringwald Project, children’s activities, and varied food and beverage vendors in the beer, wine, and spirits garden (further details TBA; also weather permitting). 

Solvang Julefest’s unofficial conclusion is marked by the annual Solvang Christmas Tree Burn, usually held in early January, and considered to be one of the largest fire safety demonstrations along the California Central Coast. The 2026 Tree Burn is currently scheduled for Friday, Jan. 9, at 5 p.m. (weather permitting). 

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On Friday, Nov. 7, the Santa Ynez High football team got to do something it hadn’t done in 15 years — host a CIF playoff game as the Pirates took on the Dos Palos Broncos of the West Sierra League in the Central Valley in a Central Section Division IV game at Rio Memorial Field. 

However, the contest would end up being the end of the season for the No. 6-seeded Pirates as they fell to the 11th-seeded Broncos 14-0. The loss not only meant elimination for SYHS, but was the first time since 2019 the Pirates had been shut out in a game. 

The game was not an offensive masterpiece as the Pirates gained 212 yards of offense, a season low. While offensive statistics for Dos Palos were not provided, the Broncos were able to move the ball at times, and while able to score the two touchdowns, had other scoring chances foiled by an opportunistic Pirates defense. 

SYHS forced three turnovers on the night, with Diego Pulido getting an interception to stop a DPHS scoring threat just before halftime, and Greyson Foy and Levi Snow had fumble recoveries. Also, Ayden Finley blocked a Broncos field-goal attempt in the third quarter to prevent another DPHS score. 

However, the Pirates were partly done in by a familiar bugaboo: Penalties. At least one of the Broncos’ scoring drives was helpled by flags thrown against SYHS. In the second quarter — after the Broncos had a touchdown called back on a penalty — DPHS’s Jesus Bon kicked a field goal, but a Pirate defender was called for rough- ing the kicker. The Broncos decided to accept the penalty and take the field goal off the board, and a couple plays later, DPHS’s Andre Flores ran it in from the 1-yard line and with the extra point, the visitors had a 7-0 lead. 

On their next drive, the Pirates thought they had a potential game-ty- ing TD when Jude Pritchard hit Jaxson Glover with a 35-yard scoring pass, but SYHS was called for an illegal man downfield penalty to negate the score. That drive ended when Pulido missed what would have been a school-record-tying 47-yard field goal. 

The Broncos added to their lead in the third quarter when quarterback Quinton Herrera threw a 62-yard TD to Bon, who added the extra-point to make it 14-0, where the score would stay until the final siren. 

The game was a disappointing end to the season for the team and head coach Josh McClurg, who was frustrated at the penalties that hurt his team.

“We just killed ourselves tonight,” McClurg said. “I’ve been telling these guys all year not to lose their composure, and tonight we kept getting these unsportsmanlike-conduct flags, which I have to say about 90 percent of them were warranted. They just need to learn they can’t keep taunting or they’ll get called on it.” 

Despite the ending, the coach had a lot of praise for the team and how they rose above expectations this year. 

“I’m very proud of these guys, proud of the work they did to get here,” McClurg said.“For instance, with our defense, at the beginning of the year, we didn’t know what we had, and they really stepped up and improved, and they kept us in the game tonight.” 

The Broncos went to lose to third- seeded and undefeated McLane High of Fresno 46-7 in a Division IV quarterfinal on Nov. 14. 

Girls tennis duo advances to CIF Individual Tournament 

The Santa Ynez High girls tennis team is out of the team playoff for this year, but one of its doubles teams qualified for the CIF Individual Tournament at Garces Memorial High in Bakersfield last weekend, Nov. 14 and 15. 

Keegan Withrow and Haley Townes breezed through their two matches in qualifying on Nov. 9, defeating Atascadero’s No. 2 team of Castorinas and Carbona 8-0 in Round 1, and then AHS’s No. 1 team of Sanchez and Luchetti 6-0, 6-2. They are the No. 9 seed in the CIF tourney; results were not available at press time. 

SYHS’s Danielle Hyland won her first match against Morro Bay’s Maggie Apple 8-6 and lost her second match 4-6, 2-6 to SLO’s Zoe Stackhouse. She did not advance to CIF. 

Girls water polo falls to top seed in CIF-CS Division III 

After defeating Exeter in the first round of the CIF Central Section Divi- sion III playoffs, the SYHS girls water polo team got to face Sierra Pacific, the division’s top seed in the second round. There, the Pirates’ season came to a close with an 8-3 loss to the Golden Bears from Hanford. 

Angelina Lefemine, Eleanor Murphy, and Paige Reynolds got the goals for SYHS, who finished the season at 13-11, including a 3-3 mark and third-place finish in the Sunset League. 

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Brooke Phelan, a senior at Santa Ynez High School has been named The Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge Student of the Month for October, chosen by the school’s office staff and administration. 

Whether she’s on the road or track, in the classroom, or volunteering in the community, Brooke is an outstanding student-athlete whose dedication, determination, and strong sense of integrity shine through everything she does. 

Brooke ranks among the top 10% of her class with a weighted GPA of 4.37. Her course load is nothing short of impressive: This year she’s enrolled in AP Literature, AP Calculus, AP Statistics, and AP Government, continuing a “track” record of academic rigor that includes Honors and AP courses in Geometry, English, Chemistry, U.S. History, and Psychology. 

She’s a four-year varsity athlete in cross country and track and field, and a two-year varsity basketball player. She’s also earned the distinction of Scholar Athlete every year for maintaining a 4.0 GPA while competing, and was named a three-sport varsity athlete during both her freshman and sophomore years 

Brooke and her family moved to the Valley right before COVID, after years of vacationing here. She says they instantly fell in love with how beautiful it is, that it is close to everything you need, but still peaceful and welcoming. 

Her family now lives on a ranch, where they have “a ton of animals” and even make their own wine. She’s also helped harvest grapes and bot- tle wine at Rancho Luis Vine- yards since her freshman year, learning firsthand the value of hard work and teamwork. 

After graduation, Brooke hopes to attend college in California — somewhere close to her family. She’s applying to UCLA, SDSU, Loyola Mary- mount, and USC, with plans to major in biology and eventually become a physical therapist. Her passion for sports, science, and helping others all point to a future where she’ll continue to make a positive impact both personally and professionally. 

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By Hadleigh Bolton 

President of Lucky Clover 4-H 

Since 1902, 4-H has been fostering growth in kids and teens all across America. 

Although the organization started out as an agricultural institution, 4-H has shifted to reflect the diverse interests of young people and to explore other paths for youth development. 

Here in Los Olivos, Lucky Clover 4-H is dedicated to raising the leaders of the Santa Ynez Valley. Projects offered in the 2025-26 year include beef, swine, poultry, rabbits, sheep, and public speaking, but one of 4-H’s many advantages is that enough interested members can create a new project to add to the list. 

Participating in 4-H animal projects teaches members responsibility, patience, and daily commitment. Youth who raise animals — whether it’s cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, or rabbits — are involved in every aspect of their care, from feeding and grooming to monitoring health and training for market and showmanship. Many describe forming a close bond with their animals and learning valuable lessons about empathy, hard work, and consistency. The experience also builds practical knowledge of animal nutrition, veterinary care, and record-keeping, all while fostering pride in seeing their project develop over time. 

Every July, 4-Hers head to the Santa Barbara County Fair to show the animals they have nurtured and prepared. Fair is an incredible bonding experience and an event that many members cite as their favorite of the year. Though the focus is on showing and selling animals, the fair also offers still exhibits where kids can showcase what they have created over the past year–be that photography, art pieces, table settings, or even jars of jam. 

For the public speaking project, events start as early as February with County Presentation Day, the first in a series of three competitions that go as far as statewide. State Presentation Day at UC Davis is a fun experience for public speakers to show their skills while meeting other proficient speakers from around the state. 

4-H’s leadership team is the heart of the club. Members are elected into positions where they have an opportunity to gain hands-on leadership experience. Officers include the president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, sergeant of arms, healthy living officer, reporter, and photographer. 

One of the leadership team’s responsibilities is deciding where the club will focus its efforts for community service. In the past, Lucky Clover has partnered with local organizations like People Helping People, the Humane Society, and the Atterdag Senior Center to run drives and help out where needed. 

Just last month a small group of Lucky Clover 4-Hers served at the Cattlewomen’s October member meeting dinner for the Solvang Senior Center, helping the Cattle- women’s group of dedicated chefs to serve food to the members at the Solvang Veterans’ Hall. Seniors and 4-Hers connected over pumpkin pie, and it was a heartwarming experience for many of Lucky Clover’s youngest members. 

This year is my sixth year in Lucky Clover 4-H and my first year as its president. When I first joined 4-H as a timid 10-year-old, I never thought being president would be something I could do — it wasn’t even something I wanted to do at the time. 

However, it was the public speak- ing project, the interactions with our community, and my prior experience with the leadership team that led me to become the more confident person I am today. 4-H has truly helped me grow and find myself, and now I am honored to lead Lucky Clover to pass my experiences on to our young members. 

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MONDAY, NOV. 24 

SOLVANG CITY COUNCIL, 6:30 P.M. 

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

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 3 

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

EVENTS 

FRIDAY, NOV. 21 

JOURNEY TRIBUTE BAND DSB AT CHUMASH CASINO RESORT, 8 P.M. Get ready to rock the night away as DSB (Don’t Stop Believin’) brings the sound and soul of Journey to life at the Chumash Casino Resort. Hailed as the “World’s Greatest Journey Tribute Band,” DSB delivers an electrifying performance packed with the band’s biggest hits — including “Separate Ways,”“Any Way You Want It,” and, of course, “Don’t Stop Believin’.”
Led by Juan Del Castillo, DSB captures the unmistakable power and emotion of Steve Perry’s vocals with uncanny precision. Since forming in 2009, the group has toured nationwide with legendary acts like Styx, Foreigner, and Night Ranger, and even brought their high-energy show to Royal Caribbean cruise ships around the world. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of nostalgia and rock ‘n’ roll in one of Santa Barbara County’s premier entertainment venues.Tickets are $25 and you must be 21 or older to attend. At Chumash Casino Resort (Samala Show- room), 3400 East Highway 246, Santa Ynez For tickets or more info: www.chumashcasino. com

MONDAY, NOV. 24 AND TUESDAY, NOV. 25 

INDOOR GAMES HOSTED BY SOLVANG PARKS AND REC, 9 A.M. TO 12 P.M. 

Bring your youngsters ages 8-12 to Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall this Thanksgiving break to play some fun games indoors! Keep the kids busy during their holiday break! Bring your competitive side and compete in some obstacle courses, dodgeball, and more! Fee is $50 for groups of between four and 10 kids. 

At Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang
To register or for more info: cityofsolvang.com or call (805) 688-7529 

THURSDAY, NOV. 27 

TURKEY TROT 5K RUN/WALK, 10 A.M.
Get ready to trot, Santa Ynez Valley! Join us for the 14th Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk on Thanksgiving Day – Thursday, Nov 27 at 10 a.m. at Sunny Fields Park!
No winners, just fun — all ages welcome! Registration is $25 with ages 10 & under being free. Only cash and venmo are accepted on Thanks- giving morning. Pre-register online if you want to pay with card! All proceeds go to a local charity!
Register now at https://secure.rec1.com/ CA/solvang-ca/catalog?filter=c2Vhcm NoPTM4NjQyMzc= 

THANKSGIVING FEAST AT VEGA VINEYARD & FARM, 12 TO 5 P.M. 

Vega Vineyard & Farm in Buellton will be host- ing a Thanksgiving meal on Thanksgiving after- noon, Nov. 27. 

Event Highlights: 

• A bountiful Thanksgiving buffet, featuring all the traditional fixings served family-style — think roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry relish, and more. 

• Fresh and vibrant Vega Farm salads showcasing the season’s best local produce: crisp greens, roasted root vegetables, house-made dressings, and colorful garden accents. 

• An assorted dessert selection to satisfy every sweet tooth: pumpkin pie, apple crisp, pecan tart, and other seasonal favorites crafted with care. 

All served amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Vega Vineyard & Farm — wander through the vineyard as the grapevine leaves transform into brilliant fall colors, and enjoy the serene beauty of the landscape. Guests can book for one of two seatings, at 12 and 2:30 p.m. 

At Vega Vineyard and Farm, 9496 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton
For tickets and more info: https://www.vega- vineyardandfarm.com/our-events/ 

SATURDAY, NOV. 29 

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY IN SANTA YNEZ, 8 A.M. TO 5 P.M.
The Saturday after Thanksgiving is designated as Small Business Saturday, a time to be thankful for our small businesses and entrepreneurs. Make a positive impact on your community by supporting small business. Even a small purchase makes a big difference. Join us in Santa Ynez for horse-drawn carriage rides, courtesy of horse trainer Ramon Becerrra, from 2 to 4 p.m., weather permitting. Pickup station will be at the corner of Edison and Sagunto Street. You are encouraged to take a stroll around the small historic town of Santa Ynez for holiday shopping, seasonal dining, sipping and soaking up the holiday vibe. Support small and local this season. Small Business Saturday is a registered trade- mark of American Express as a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday that promote big box retail and e-commerce stores.
At Sagunto Street, Santa Ynez
For more info: https://santaynezchamber.org/ event/small-business-saturday/

YULEFEST AT THEATERFEST, 2 TO 5P.M.

Yulefest at Solvang Festival Theater – step into a winter wonderland! This free, family-friendly holiday event is packed with magic: snap selfies at our festive booth, write letters to Santa, sip on a hot cocoa bar, enjoy a bake sale, create holiday crafts, and so much more. Fun for the whole family!
At Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang 

For more info: https://solvangtheaterfest.org/ show-details/yulefest-at-theaterfest

FRIDAY, DEC. 5 TO DEC. 21

HOLIDAY LIGHTS FESTIVAL 

The Santa Ynez Valley Holiday Lights Festival returns for its fourth enchanting season, transforming the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden into a glowing winter wonderland for three magical weekends, December 5–21. 

Guests are invited to stroll beneath thousands of twinkling lights, explore illuminated trails, and experience the sights, sounds, and spirit of the holidays in one of Santa Barbara County’s most scenic outdoor settings. 

Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, delicious food and beverages from local vendors, an artisan marketplace, and fun activities for all ages— all while supporting the nonprofit Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden Foundation. 

At Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden (next to River View Park), 151 Sycamore Drive, Buellton
For tickets and more info: Tickets and details: syvholidaylights.com 

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 

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Eleven days after the Buellton City Council offered to increase its financial pledge to the Santa Ynez Valley aquatic center project from $450,000 to $500,000 — but only if Solvang agreed to do the same — the Solvang City Council voted to meet that challenge during its Nov. 10 regular meeting. 

The aquatic center, which will be built on the Santa Ynez High School campus, is a joint undertaking involving the cities of Buellton and Solvang, the Santa Ynez Valley Aquatics Foundation, a local nonprofit organization, the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District (SYVUHSD), and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. 

The issue of the money pledged by each of the cities has become something of a tennis match between the two City Councils as they settle on an identical amount the two cities can pledge toward the project. 

Earlier this year the Solvang City Council approved Resolution 25-1281 that expressed support for SYVAF’s effort to provide the new and improved aquatic facility on the SYHS campus. This support was further in evidence with the adoption of the FY 25/26 City budget that committed $450,000 of Measure U funds upon project groundbreaking along with a few other conditions: That the pool serve youth, adults, families and seniors on a permanent basis; that the pledge will expire on June 30, 2028, if it is unutilized; and that the pledge will be withdrawn if the project becomes unviable. 

The issuing of another $450,000 pledge from the Buellton City Council was on the agenda during its regular meeting on Oct. 30. 

Instead of approving that amount, Buellton councilmembers floated the idea of increasing the pledge, with Mayor David Silva suggested a $500,000 figure so that the cities’ total pledge could be for $1 million, and said the idea was contingent on Solvang agreeing to the figure. 

Solvang City Manager Randy Murphy was at the Buellton meeting as an advocate for the aquatic center, and told that council he would bring it to the Solvang councilmembers, which he did for the Nov. 10 meeting. 

Murphy told the councilmembers that in addition to the cities increasing the pledge to the aquatic center project, their actions could spur the other partners, and outside interests, to donate more also. 

“A number of people in the community have donated, and we have a third of the money needed to get it built,” said Murphy of the $13.7 million project. 

When asked by Mayor David Brown whether the head of the Measure U committee was informed of the increase, Murphy said, “I talked with the head, and he said it was consistent with their aim.” Councilmember Elizabeth Orona asked whether the entire Measure U budget was earmarked for this. Administrative Services Director Wendy Berry said there was still a surplus after the pledge, which she later disclosed was $240,000. 

Lisa Palmer, board president of the Santa Ynez Valley Community Aquatics Foundation, spoke about the project during Public Comment, just as she did at the Buellton meeting. 

“Thank you to the council, and Mr. Murphy, for your support of the aquatic center,” she said. “When Buellton met, that was organic on their end, and I’m grateful. We are in talks with Chumash about them increasing participation, and since the Buellton meeting, we’ve had two $50K grants come in.” 

After the item went back to council, Elizabeth Orona still expressed reservations about increasing the amount and the timing of it.

“I just wonder if there’s a timeframe to the challenge [from Buellton]; I think we need to get through a couple of retail seasons to make sure we can do this, and I’m slightly concerned about pledging more 

than we did to the Senior Center,” she said. “If we don’t do something now, we are still supporting the project. There’s no compelling reason to do it now—we can do it more leisurely.” 

However, Councilmember Mark Infante believed this was the right time to act. 

“It’s not this year’s or next year’s budget,” he said. “It’s a pledge to support, if the money’s not there at the end, nothing happens. It’s a pledge to support, it’s not something we need to worry about this year. Therefore, I would move to approve the $50K to the pledge.” 

Elizabeth Orona remarked they should make sure Buellton votes to increase also, with Murphy saying he believed they would do so at a future meeting. 

With Infante’s motion still on the record, Councilmember Claudia Orona seconded and the item passed 4-1 with Elizabeth Orona voting no. 

The Solvang City Council will next meeting on Monday, Nov. 24, at 6:30 p.m. The council will meet for its last meeting of the calendar year on Monday, Dec. 8. 

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The Veterans Day holiday was commemorated in the Santa Ynez Valley this month, with multiple events to honor the people who have served in the armed forces.

A week of celebration culminated in the annual Veterans Day Ceremony held at the aptly named Solvang Veterans Hall on Saturday, Nov. 11.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7139 Commander Alvin Salge (Air Force) welcomed a packed house to the Veterans Hall for the ceremony and directed the crowd outside for the flag raising, led by American Legion Post 160 Commander and Marine Corp Sgt. Jeff McKeone, performed by Legion members Lance Brown (Navy) and Alejandra M. Sanchez (Navy). Bugler Michael Roberts played “To the Colors” and taps during the raising.

After the audience returned to the hall, Salge made his opening remarks, reminding the crowd why they were there.

“Remember that when veterans signed up for military service, they pledged to protect the United States even willing to give their lives if necessary,” he said. “Today we honor and salute all veterans who answered the call to protect us and our freedom.”

Col. Michael Jewell, vice commander of Space Force Launch 30 at Vandenberg Space Force Base, was the keynote speaker.

Noting that the U.S. Military has been an all-volunteer force since 1973, Jewell began by thanking the veterans in attendance “regardless of how long you served: four years, 20 years, or 30 years, thank you.”

“No matter your job, how long you served, if you were guard or reserves, you made an impact,” Jewell continued. “As President Ronald Reagan once said: ‘Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world. A veteran does not have that problem.”

Jewell went on to note the sacrifices veterans make to serve their county, and reminded the audience that their efforts don’t always come in times of war.

“The wartime efforts that our veterans have been a part of are widely known, but our military also answers the calls for help, leading to great feats of humanitarian aid,” he said, citing instance such as the Berlin Airlifts in the late 1940s, and the military delivering aid to Turkey earlier this year after a devastating earthquake.

Later, the attendees hear from the featured speaker, Marine Corps veteran Steven Kester, who told of his experiences in the Vietnam War after enlisting as an 18-year-old in 1968.

“My family includes a long line of warriors,” he said, mentioning his grandfather, father and two uncles who fought in World War II, and two uncles who saw action in Korea. “Military service is what my family did.”

Kesler went on to recount three specific experiences that shaped his time in Vietnam after he was assigned to Lima Company as a radio operator for the artillery unit.

The first incident involved him hitching a ride on a helicopter during a supply run and then unceremoniously getting kicked off the copter, leaving him with a unit didn’t know what to do with him.

“As it turned out, the FO was not in need of a radio operator so it was settled that I would be the radio operator for the Artillery Scout,” Kesler said. “The principal problem with that was the physical location of the artillery scout. He was positioned on a ridgeline with the Point Platoon about 500 meters outside the company perimeter.”

The second incident happened about a month later when his battalion suffered losses in a battle at a valley named Hiep Duc, and he was tabbed to replace the injured artillery scout. The third incident later was when his unit was doing recon patrols and the spotting of people working on a rice paddy became a sudden firefight, one he just barely escaped without injury.

While suffering from a second bout of malaria, Kesler was transferred stateside, to Camp Pendleton in San Diego, where his stint met an ironic end.

“While there I was injured playing basketball. Tore all the ligaments in my right ankle,” he said. “It was operated on, but only partially successfully. After three months in a full leg cast, my time on active duty came to an abrupt end, and I was medically discharged.”

In addition to the speakers, the ceremony also included a proclamation from Solvang Mayor Mark Infanti, invocation and benediction from Bethania Lutheran Church Pastor Chris Brown, and musical performances from the Santa Ynez Valley Chorale, directed by David Torres, and the Santa Ynez Wind Ensemble, led by Sharon Jeskey.

The Veterans Hall Ceremony wasn’t the only event during the week in the Santa Ynez Valley. Seven days earlier (Nov. 4), the Santa Barbara County Veterans Foundation held its third annual Salute to the Vets event, starting with a parade down Sagunto Street in Santa Ynez, and a gathering at the Maverick Saloon on that same street that including live entertainment, the arrival of three skydivers, vendors, and more.

Meanwhile, in the middle of the week, Wednesday, Nov. 8, to be exact, Santa Ynez Valley Union High School welcomed veterans into classrooms, providing students the unique opportunity to engage with local heroes and hear their stories first-hand. Veterans from across the armed services visited classrooms and shared their personal stories, experiences, and valuable insights with students.

SYVUHS Interim Principal Torina expressed his enthusiasm about the event, saying, “We are honored to have our local veterans visit our school and interact with our students. Students gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who have served in our armed forces and the values of service, integrity, and dedication that our veterans embody.”

Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District Superintendent Andrew Schwab, an Army veteran himself, said, “We are very grateful to be able to connect our students with local veterans and have the opportunity to learn about the importance of Veterans Day in a meaningful way.”

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The fifth annual Buellton Fall Festival returned to the Avenue of the Flags in Buellton the weekend of Nov. 7-9, turning the area north of 246 and west of 101 into a three-day event that was a music festival, street fair, shopping bazaar, and a “restaurant row” all in one. 

And according to Buellton Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kathy Vreeland, it was the most successful one yet. 

“I talked to Andres (Nuno) from En Fuego Events, and he said we had our biggest year yet for this event, though we don’t have specific numbers,” Vreeland said. “It really worked out well for us with the weather and the bands we’re just great. Plus, I’m hearing from the city, that the Fall Fest helped outside the event with people spending money at businesses and staying in hotels.” 

The family-friendly, free-admission event featured a carnival with rides and games, over 40 bands on two stages, and over 60 food and merchant vendors. 

This year, each night was split into themes with like-minded bands playing for the crowds. 

On Friday, it was an ’80s and ’90s Dance Party on the Rio Vista Chevrolet Main Stage featuring local favorite, The Molly Ringwald Project, with its renditions of 1980s tunes. Also playing were the 90s Babies, Smelly Cat, and The Last Decade to represent the 1990s.

Saturday brought the “Funk ’n’ Rock the Block Party,” with Nautical Thrust, The New Vibe, and False Puppet, going into Reggae Night on Saturday evening with local band Cornerstone, and reggae legend and icon Pato Banton, a Grammy-nominated reggae legend who has recorded and toured the world with The English Beat, Steel Pulse, UB40, and Sting, among many others. The audience was treated to the headliner a little bit early, as Banton joined Cornerstone for a couple of songs at the end of that band’s set. 

Then Banton took the stage with his own band, giving the crowd the upbeat, positive, energetic, and family-friendly show he’s known for to close out the second evening. 

Sunday started with Fiesta Sunday, featuring Traviesos Jr., Equipo Marcado, and Equipo Elite, whose energetic playing turned the entire lawn in front of them into a huge outdoor dance floor. The fest ended with Country Night, featuring the Jimi Nelson Band, and local favorites Agin Brothers and Territorial Law, and Jayden Secor. 

The event was co-sponsored by the City of Buellton, Discover Buellton, the Buellton Arts and Culture Program, and Rio Vista Chevrolet, and was put on by En Fuego Events, a well-known event organizer in these parts. 

While the music was going on from two stages, there was a lot happening outside of that also. Off to the right was the carnival, featuring midway games and, of course, numerous rides, some with thrilling names like Star Dancer, Kamikaze, and Sea Ray. 

Also, for those clamoring for a bite to eat, several food trucks were parked along the avenue with all sorts of delicacies, whether its burgers, tacos, hot dogs, or noodles. There was even a local vendor from nearby Solvang fixing that town’s signature dish, the aebleskiver.

“I don’t actually have a restaurant there or anything,” said 

Thorn Kinersly, who was working at his first Fall Fest and serving up the “pancake balls.” “I was able to acquire the recipe for this one, and I’ve been serving it for people. I like to bring this around to different places. I’ve taken this as far as Oregon.” 

The Fall Fest was a destination for folks in the Valley, as, in its fifth year now, it’s becoming a bit of a staple in the area. But it has been drawing people from surrounding areas also. 

“We just got here and it’s our first time, but it seems really fun, it’s like a street fair,” said Kalli Brinson, who came with her husband, Shawn, and young son, Zane. “Just thought it would be a great place to hang out and have some fun as a family.” 

Back to the bands, while many of the big names and crowds drifted to the bigger Rio Vista Chevrolet stage on the south end, the smaller stage had its share of young hungry music groups trying to make a dent. 

One of them was a trio called Simeon, Werre, and Matthes played their brand of what guitarist/lead singer Chris Simeon calls “soul rock.” 

“I live in Oxnard, and play around there, but we got a chance to come up here and it’s been great,” said Simeon, whose band- mates are, of course, (Dave) Werre and (Sean) Matthes. “Actually, we haven’t been together that long. I think it’s been just a few weeks ago we were jamming, it felt good, and now we’re giving it a shot. It’s just a matter of getting gigs. 

“But we got a good vibe here from the crowd, and hopefully we’ll be back.” 

And the Fall Fest should be back in 2026, most likely the first or second weekend in November. 

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