Arts Outreach Summertime Arts          

The Arts Outreach Summertime Arts classes are a diverse way to dive into the fun of learning new art techniques. Explore painting, drama, woodworking, storybook illustration, printmaking, nature art, music or drawing. Morning, afternoon, and all-day sessions are available. Grades K-8. Weekly June 10-July 19. $80-$100/session. Los Olivos Elementary School. Contact: 805-688-9533 or www.artsoutreach.com.

Buellton Rec Center Day Camps          

Campers will have fun, make friends, and enjoy a field trip each week. One-, three- and five-day options available. Bring a nutritious sack lunch daily and a positive attitude. Ages 6-12. M-F, June 10 – Aug. 9, 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. $45-$180. Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton. Contact: 805-688-1086 or www.buelltonrec.com/camps.

Buellton Rec Center Surf Camp

Campers will have fun learning to surf. Longboards provided and wetsuits are highly recommended. One-, two-, three- and four-day options available for three weeks in July. Ages 11-16. 8 am-4 pm. $65-$200. Pick-up locations at Buellton Rec Center and Solvang Vets Hall. Contact: 805-688-1086 or www.buelltonrec.com/camps.

Buellton Rec Biking Camp

Teens will enjoy riding the hills of the central coast with others their age from 12 – 14. Aug. 5 – 8, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. $45-$180. Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton. Contact: 688-1086 or www.buelltonrec.com/camps.

Buellton Rec Center Teen Camp          

Teens can enjoy a day camp with others their age. Have fun, make friends, and enjoy two field trips a week. Ages 12-14. M-Th, June 10-27, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. $45-$180. Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton. Contact: 688-1086 or www.buelltonrec.com/camps.

Buellton Rec Ultimate Girl Camp

A week of all things girly with a variety of activities including dancing, singing, crafting and more…with a different theme each day of Princess Day, Fairy Day, Tea Party with Dolls Day, Unicorn Day, and “Glam” Day!  There will be a break for a snack/sack lunch during the session. Taught by Allison Firey, a musician/performer whose resume includes working as a performer for the Walt Disney Corporation, many national musical theatre tours, and former owner of Enchanted Princess Events. June 10 – 14 Cost is $155 – 10:15 – 11:45 a.m. for 3 – 5 years; 12 – 1:30 p.m. for 6 – 10 years.  Contact: 688-1086 or www.buelltonrec.com/camps.

Camp Millionaire and Moving Out Financial Camps

Interactive, experiential financial education camps for kids. All of the programs use The Money Game to teach kids about money and investing. Camp Millionaire: July 8-12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ages 10-14. $370 plus $25 materials fee. Five scholarships offered. Offered through Santa Barbara Park & Rec. Dept. Contact: 805-957-1024 or campmillionaire.com.

Camp Wheez

Campers learn about their asthma while they participate in recreation and arts and crafts. Parents can attend a brief workshop on Friday, Aug. 9, at 11:30 a.m. that provides an update on asthma care and a time to have their questions answered by an asthma specialist, followed by a light lunch.Grades 1-6. Mon.-Fri., Aug. 5-9, 8:30am-12:30 p.m. Free. Extended care available. Veronica Springs Church/First Baptist Church, 949 Veronica Springs Road. Contact Info: 805-681-7500 x8754 or sansumclinic.org/camp-wheez.

Challenger Soccer Camp    

Join the UK’s best soccer players to learn or improve moves, dribbling, passing/receiving, shooting and defending. Ages 3-16. June 10-14 and/or Just 29 – Aug. 2, Mon-Fri, 9 am -10 am for ages 3-5 and 9 am – noon for ages 5-14, or full day 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. for ages 7 – 14. $108-$219. Sunny Fields Park, 900 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang. Contact: https://challenger.configio.com.

Destination Science

Destination Science is a warm, wonderful environment where kids feel comfortable making connections with others. A variety of STEM-focused camps offered to elementary-age students, including Physics Coaster Science Magic, Rocket Space, Extreme Innovations, and Robot Challenge. Grades K-6. Weekly session run June 17-July 15. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Extended care available. $339. Foothill Elementary, 711 Ribera Drive, Santa Barbara. Contact: destinationscience.org.

Dunn School Summer Programs

Dunn Summer Programs include aquatics: family pool pass, swim lessons and splash ball camp. Ages 2-12. $100-$300. Runs June 10-Aug. 9. Sports Camps: June 10-July 12. Ages 7-17 $150-$300 includes lunch, T-shirt and pool time. STEM Academy: July 13-Aug.9. Ages 13-16. $3,500. Dunn School, 2555 West Highway 154, Los Olivos. Contact: http://www.dunnschool.org/summer, summer@dunnschool.org.

Gypsy Studios Art Camps  

Providing space and guidance for kids to freely create, learn different skills in various mediums and build self-confidence. We will be creating art that holds both form and function as well as guided paintings throughout. Each week will close with a “gallery show” open house featuring our camp artists’ works. Weekly from June 24 thru Aug 2, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. $375/week. Held at their new Solvang studio at 1669 Fir Ave, Unit 3. Scholarships available. Some camps will include walking field trips to nearby parks, and July 4th will include walking in the Fourth of July Parade. Contact: gypsystudiosart.com or 805-245-2381.

Ice Skating 

Improve your ice skating skills, have fun and stay cool this summer! All levels welcome – no skating experience necessary! Kids enjoy group classes, open practice, off-ice training, games, indoor & outdoor activities, and catered lunch. Ages 6-14. Mon.-Fri., June 24-28 and July 29-Aug. 2, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $395/week. $20 discount for early bird registration and siblings. Ice in Paradise, 6985 Santa Felicia Drive, Goleta, (805) 879-1550. Contact: www.iceinparadise.org/Skating-school/summer-camp or Camp Director Bri Donnelly at bdonnellyice@gmail.com.

Harry Potter Magical Engineering with LEGO Materials

Explore the magic of Harry Potter using LEGO! Find Platform 9 3/4, build Hogwarts Express Train, work cooperatively to construct the mysterious Hogwarts Castle, and challenge the Hungarian Horntail Dragon. June 10-14, 9 am-noon for ages 5-7 and 1-4 pm for ages 7-12. $125. Ballard Elementary School. Contact: www.play-well.org.

Little Big Riding School Camps     

Weekly riding camps are being offered in June and July with a different theme every week. Mon.-Fri., June 24-July 26, 9 am-noon. $350/week, however the week of July 15 – 19 is $375. Extended day available from noon-3 p.m. for $150/week. The Little Big Riding School, 2035 Edison St., Santa Ynez. Contact: thelittlebigridingschool@yahoo.com or 805-886-2215.

Los Olivos Dance Gallery Camps  

Students can dance the summer away at Dance Camp. They will have fun, make friends, and build confidence during these dance camps for both boys and girls. Ages 3.5 and up. Various weeks June 10 – Aug. 2. Various times and prices range from $125 – 325. Los Olivos Dance Gallery, 2948 Nojoqui Ave., No. 6, Los Olivos. Contact: lodg@verizon.net or www.losolivosdancegallery.com.

Mie’s Beads Camps

Students will learn a variety of beading and jewelry making techniques. No experience necessary. All materials are included in the tuition price. Ages 10+. June 25-29  or July 23-27. 9 am-1 pm. $185 or $40/day. Register by 5/15 and save $25/week. Mie’s Beads, 1539A Mission Drive, Solvang. Contact: mie@miesbeads.com or 805-686-8804.

Moxi Museum

Discover. Explore. Create. Join us for a one-of-a-kind summer of creativity and innovation at MOXI Summer Camp. New sessions for 2019 include Super Messy Science, Game Design plus SONOS Speaker Design Workshops. Cardboard engineering camp returns with new themes as well as the popular Fiesta plus Cardboard Canoe weeks. Grades 2-6. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Extended care available. Weekly, June 10-Aug. 16. Prices vary. Contact: 805-770-5012 or www.moxi.org.

Nature Adventures

Children have opportunities to experiment, experience, and observe the natural world around them while engaging in the scientific process. Ages 4-14. Mon.-Fri., June 10-Aug. 16, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. $280/week for members; $299/week for non-members. Extended care available. S.B. Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol, and Sea Center, 211 Stearns Wharf. Contact: 805-682-4711 or sbnature.org/natureadventures.

Nick Rail Sumer Band Camp          

Students of all ability levels will receive concert band and sectional instruction three mornings a week. Ages 9-13. Mon., Tue. and Thu., June 17-July 11. $125. First United Methodist Church, 305 E. Anapamu St. Contact: 569-5353 or santabarbaraeducation.org.

            Refugio Junior Lifeguards

Participants learn how to be safe in the ocean, what to do in an emergency, how to respect and care for the environment, and the importance of living a healthy and active lifestyle. 4 week session. Ages 7-17. Mon.-Fri., June 24-July 19. 10 am-3 pm. $399 (sibling discount $299.). Transportation available for Lompoc and Santa Ynez for $149 (siblings $99.). Refugio State Beach, Goleta. Contact: 805-331-8018 or visit https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=22375.

Safety Town 

Children entering or leaving kindergarten will learn to evaluate “safe” and “unsafe” while learning overall safety practices. June 24-28, 9 am-noon. $25. Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church, 1825 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang. Contact: Lis Wilson, 805-688-6323 x242, lis@syvpc.org or www.syvpc.org.

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Children spend their day immersed in hands-on art making, cultural history and creative problem solving. All camps include a visit to the museum to learn about and be inspired by original works of art. Ages 5-12. Mon.-Fri., June 10-Aug. 16, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $250 SBMA Members, $300 non-members. SBMA’s Ridley-Tree Education Center at McCormick House, 1600 Santa Barbara St. Contact: www.sbma.net/kidsfamilies, 805-884-6441 or rkrieps@sbma.net.

Santa Barbara Parks and Rec

The city of Santa Barbara offers more than 40 summer camps with full- and half-day options for a variety of interests including cooking, theater, sports, dance, Legos, art, and many more. Contact: 805-564-5418 or sbparksandrec.org/all-summer-camps/.

Santa Barbara Zoo

Traditional camp includes hands-on science activities, games, crafts, snack and lunch time, up-close animal encounters and a guided zoo tour. Specialty camps cater to specific interests such as junior veterinarian, backyard biologist, and the new Aussie Adventure camps. June 10-Aug. 16 from 9 a.m. (full day) or 9 to noon for half day for ages 3-8. Prices range from $185 to $285/week. Santa Barbara Zoo, 500 Ninos Drive. Contact: 805-962-5339 or https://www.sbzoo.org/learn/zoo-camp/.

Solvang Parks and Recreation      

Solvang Parks and Recreation will once again host a variety of specialty summer sessions, including  Horse Camp, American Girl Doll Camp, Woodworking Camp, Cookie Camp, Jr Chef Camp, Robotics Camp, LEGO camp, Slime Camp, Art Camp and other classes, clinics and events throughout the summer. Various ages, dates, times, locations, and prices. This year, registration will be available online. Contact: 805-688-7529 or www.cityofsolvang.com/179/Parks-Recreation

Space VR Camp

Explore the amazing world of 360 degree, room-sized total immersion virtual reality experiences. Hundreds of physically active, educational, and entertaining choices. Each child will receive a personalized experience. June 10-14, M-F, Ages 8 and up, $150, Space VR (320 Alisal Rd, Suite 104) Early morning 8:30 – 10 a.m.; mid-morning 10:30 – noon. Email info@spacevrsolvang.com for more info.

Summer Quilt Camp

Students will make a large throw-size quilt from start to finish. Learn how to use a sewing machine, piece the top and quilt on a long arm. Lunch included. Supplies are not included in the camp cost (approx. $150) Beginner to advanced. June 10 – 14 and July 29 – Aug. 2, 11 am-3 pm. $150. The Creation Station Fabric and Quilt Shop, 252 E. Hwy 246, Unit A, Buellton. Contact: 805-693-0174 or www.thecreationstation.com

UCSB Youth Programs

UCSB Recreation Department offers a variety of camps for various ages such as Day Camp, Junior Lifeguards, and Surf & Kayak Camp. Sessions run from June 17 – Aug. 16, for ages 5 – 14. Fees range from $140-$170/wk.Contact: 805-893-3913, camps@recreation.ucsb.edu or recreation.ucsb.edu.

VBS at Bethania Lutheran Church

Grades K-5 will have a fun filled week at “Mars and Beyond.” June 24-28, 5:30 – 8 p.m. Free. Dinner provided from 5:30-6 pm for $5/day or $20/week. Bethania Lutheran Church, 603 Atterdag Rd. Solvang. Contact: 805-688-4637 or bethanialutheran.net

VBS at SYV Presbyterian Church  

Grades K-6 will have an adventure filled week at “Babylon. July 29-Aug 2. 9 am-noon. $25. Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church, 1825 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang. Contact: Lis Wilson, 805-688-6323 x242, lis@syvpc.org or www.syvpc.org.

Wild West Camp      

Design your own brand, braid a lariat, learn to weave a basket, sing cowboy songs, cook lunch over a Dutch oven just like out on the range, ride in a real stagecoach and much, much more. Lots of outdoor fresh air and fun. Ages 7-11. June 24-28, July 8-12, and July 15-19, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $165-$200/week. Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum, 3596 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez. Contact: 805-688-7889 or www.santaynezmuseum.org

Wolf Wigo’s 2019 Turbo Santa Barbara Water Polo Camp

This camp is designed to help prepare athletes for the rest of their water polo career. The camp is designed to have a direct impact on your overall game and let you have fun doing it. While fitness is a key aspect to a great water polo player our camp philosophy focuses on fundamental position, ball skills and scrimmaging. Santa Barbara Water Polo Camp staff is made up of Olympians, NCAA Division I coaches, and U.S. National Team Players. Ages 10-18. Various weeks throughout summer. Various prices. Day and overnight camper options available. UCSB Campus Pool. Contact: www.santabarbarawaterpolocamps.com or goletapolo@yahoo.com.

Youth Empowered

Students will learn non-contact boxing, circuit training and introduction to weight training for middle-school students. Limited to 10 participants, the cost if $250/week from July 15 – 19; 1 – 3 p.m.Each day will include 2 45-minute training sessions and group discussions. Beginners are welcome, challenge student-athletes of all levels. Contact 805-267-6272. Located at 320 Alisal Rd., Suite 106 Solvang.

YMCA Day Camp and Sleepaway Camp   

Campers will enjoy days full of fun and activities geared to their age group. Catch the perfect summer vibe for your family. The YMCA has camps to ignite that sense of adventure, exploration, discovery, and fun for everyone. Grades PreK-8. Various times and dates throughout the summer. Various prices. Registration now offered online. Contact: ciymca.org/camp. Visit ciymca.org/Sleepaway-Camp to sign up for some fun away from home. Caravan Camp: July 8 – July 13 Family Camp Lake Sequoia: August 10–16.

YMCA Sports Camps          

Surfing, basketball, football and tennis camps are available at different times throughout the summer. Grades 3-8. Various locations and times. $120-$225/week. Contact: 805-686-2037 or ciymca.org/stuartgildred/activities/summer-camp/

Youth Community Theater 

The Arts Outreach Summer Youth Community Theater program is an opportunity for students to dive into live theater in an intensive four-week program. Students will take lead roles, teach younger students, create friendships, learn new talents, and foster pride through acting, singing and dancing. Grades 5-12 will produce “42nd Street” (auditions May 18). Various dates, times and locations. Contact: Arts Outreach, 805-688-9533 or www.artsoutreach.com.

The post 2019 Summer Camp Guide appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Contributing Writer

All children from grades four through eight are invited to join the Santa Ynez Valley Youth Ensemble that will perform with the Santa Ynez Valley Master Chorale and Orchestra at its 2017 holiday concert, “A Festival of Carols.”

Rehearsals for the youth ensemble are scheduled from 6:30 to 7:25 p.m. every Tuesday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 2627 Janin Way in Solvang.

Dana Stewart, who also sings in the adult chorale, coaches and directs the youth ensemble.

During the holiday concert, the youth ensemble will sing a variety of pieces including “Fum, Fum, Fum,” “Carol of the Bells,” “Christmas Round,” “One Small Child,” and “Christmas Time is Here” (from “A Charlie Brown Christmas”).

The annual experience provides an opportunity for children to learn choral music and perform with the master chorale and a professional orchestra under the direction of Michael Eglin.

“It’s an opportunity to make new friends, build confidence in performing in front of others and, finally, present the results of rehearsals to family, friends and neighbors throughout the valley,” Stewart said.

“The rewards of working with these amazing kids are immeasurable.  I love watching a child discover his own talent, come into a position of confidence and security in her skill, and gain tremendous joy in bringing it to an audience.  The age of our kids is prime for this development, and afterwards I know we will have the joy of seeing these kids take their places in the performing world,” she added.

Stewart brings a wealth of ability and experience after teaching eighth grade for 24 years in Houston.  She moved the Santa Ynez Valley about seven years ago when her husband transitioned his career from advertising photography to lavender farming.

After she had sung with the choral for a few years, Eglin gave Stewart the opportunity to coach the children.

“He was very amenable to making use of my skills and very graciously gave me the opportunity to take a more prominent role,” she said.

And Stewart has a love of music and a host of skills to offer youth a phenomenal musical experience.

“At about 4 or 5, I told my mom I wanted to be a singer and that I needed to take voice lessons.  She said I was too little, but she admonished me that all singers need to know how to play the piano.  So, at age 6 I began taking piano lessons.”

Her teacher included instruction in music theory, which gave her a greater understanding of music.

“I continued to study piano all the way through college, but didn’t get to start voice lessons until high school,” Stewart said.

While singing in the glee club in high school, she was allowed to sing with the Rice University Chorale, whose director worked in both places.  She has a master’s degree in music education from Occidental College as well as Level II accreditation from the Orff Schulwerk Association.

While living in Huston, she said, “I studied voice with the wonderfully talented Lucy Hargis, who transformed the way I made sound.  It was after college that I began doing solo work in church and directing youth choirs.  As a school teacher, although I was the Bible teacher, I was privileged to direct the choir and the chapel worship team.”

Music can provide unforgettable experiences, she added.

“Our fifth-to-eighth-grade choir performed at a home for mentally and emotionally challenged individuals.  For several of our kids, this was their first experience in such a setting.  As they sang, one of the residents was so moved by the music that he stood up, came to stand right behind the director and in front of the kids.  He began directing his heart out.  The kids never broke stride — they just kept singing.  Our ‘new director’ took a big, flourishing bow at the end!”

Stewart works with her husband of 40 years at their lavender farm.  They have two grown daughters and, she said, “two smart, funny and all-around perfect grandchildren.”

Her family members are also involved with music.  Her oldest daughter and husband occasionally lead music at their church, and she has three cousins who are professional musicians.

In addition to coaching the youth ensemble, Stewart sings second soprano in the master chorale

“Though this section often sings the melody, we also get to exercise our ears and sight-reading in holding down a harmony part.  We are also less likely to go home light-headed from spending too much time in the stratosphere, musically speaking,” she said.

Making music brings her lots of joy, and she loves participating in a group that shares this love of music.

“I meet all kinds of wonderful people from different parts of the Valley — people who might not cross path in any other context.”

The chorale and full orchestra will present its winter concert, “Festival of Carols,” on Dec. 16 and 17.  Among many other pieces, it will include Ralph Vaughn Williams’ “Fantasia on Christmas Carols.”

For more information, visit syvchorale.org.

The post SYV Youth Ensemble seeking singers for holiday concert appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Adult volunteers are needed to tutor learners in the Santa Barbara Public Library System’s free Adult Literacy Program. Tutors help local adults learn basic skills, build work readiness, study for the citizenship exam, help their children, and achieve personal and career goals. The Library System will offer a nine-hour training course for new tutors in August 2017. The three-day workshop will take place Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, August 7, 8, and 9, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. All three sessions are required. Training is free of charge and will be held in the Adult Literacy Center on the main floor of the Central Library, 40 E. Anapamu St.

Trained tutors work once or twice a week with another adult, providing assistance with reading, writing, English, and more. Volunteers must be able to make a six-month commitment to tutoring after completing the training course. Pre-registration is requested; call (805) 564-5619 or contact Literacy@SantaBarbaraCA.gov to register.

The Library’s Adult Literacy Program has helped thousands of local adults since 1987. Volunteers provided over 7,000 hours of instruction in the past year, helping other community members read more confidently, prepare to return to school, be able to read to their children and help them with homework, and prepare for better careers.

The Santa Barbara Central and Eastside Libraries also are seeking volunteers for Youth Services’ Homework Help Program to work with children in Kindergarten through 6^th grade. This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the school success of local students. Adults and teens interested in volunteering will need to attend a training on Saturday, August 12, from 1-3 p.m. in the Island Room of the Santa Barbara Central Library, or attend a training on Tuesday, August 15 from 4-6 p.m. in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Room at the Eastside Library,  located at 1102 E. Montecito St.

460 students come through the program every school year, and on a typical day the program serves 35-40 children and their families. The Library is excited to begin offering one-on-one tutoring at the Eastside branch this school year.

Volunteers are asked to work a minimum of two hours a week assisting children with reading and/or homework. Teen volunteers earn community service hours for their time, must be at least 14 years old, and maintain at least a B grade-point average. Volunteers 18 and older need to complete a background check/livescan and a TB test through Partners in Education.

Shifts are available 3:30-6:30 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays and 2:30-6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays and Central Library and 3:30-6:30 on Tuesday and 2:30-5:00 on Thursday at Eastside. To sign up for the training please call (805) 962-7653 or email Karla Centeno at KCenteno@SantaBarbaraCA.gov.

Information about Santa Barbara Public Library System locations, hours, events, and programs is available at SBPLibrary.org. All Library programs are free and open to the public.

The post Training offered for library Adult Literacy Tutors and Homework Help volunteers appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Local Girl Scout and Santa Ynez Valley Union High School senior Madison Gann has set out to help the environment through her Gold Award project “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” by making reusable bags out of gently used t-shirts. She is currently collecting shirts of any color and size at locations around the valley.

“The goal of my Gold Award project is to help our community limit the use of hazardous plastic bags in the community and help the environment in a fun easy way,” shared Gann.

Gann has worked with the Buellton Rec Summer Camp and other local Girl Scouts to make more than 100 bags thus far. She plans on distributing the reusable bags at Solvang’s Farmer’s Market in the Fall.

Gann has also created a Youtube video on how people can make their own reusable t-shirt bags as part of her project. The video can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xD6EFi5SFU&feature=youtu.be

Shirt collection boxes can be found at the Buellton Rec Department, New Frontier’s Marketplace and the Buellton Library through the end of the month.

For more information, contact Madison Gann at gann.madison@gmail.com.

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Computer Aided Quilting using Pro-Stitcher – 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Creation Station Fabric and Quilt Shop, 252 CA-246, Buellton. Instructor Kelly Ashton will teach students the basics in creating custom designs using computer guided quilting systems. $150 class fee includes lunch. To register, visit www.thecreationstation.com.

Stuffed Animal Sleepover- Buellton Library, 140 CA-246, Buellton and Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Dr., Solvang. Drop off your favorite stuffed animal for a night of fun at the library! When you pick them up the next day, we’ll have photos for you of the animals’ antics! Drop off animals between 3-4:45 p.m.; pick-up after noon the next day. If you don’t have a stuffed animal, the library can lend you one!

“Lend Me a Tenor” Performance by Pacific Conservatory Theater-Now through July 23rd. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St, Solvang. For tickets, visit www.pcpa.org.

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Community Day-11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wildling Museum, 1511 Mission Dr., Solvang. Free Museum Day. Visit www.wildlingmuseum.org.

Sip, Savor and Save Solvang 3^rd Wednesday-All day event. Features deals at local merchants, live music, and a Wine and Beer Walk. Visit www.solvang3rdwednesday.com.

Community Dinner-5:30-7 p.m. Buellton Senior Center, West Hwy. 246, Buellton. Call 688-4571. Free and open to the entire community. Visit www.buelltonseniorcenter.org.

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Stuffed Animal Sleepover- Buellton Library, 140 CA-246, Buellton and Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Dr., Solvang. Drop off your favorite stuffed animal for a night of fun at the library! When you pick them up the next day, we’ll have photos for you of the animals’ antics! Drop off animals between 3-4:45 p.m.; pick-up after noon the next day. If you don’t have a stuffed animal, the library can lend you one!

Movie in the Park “Moana”- 7:30 p.m. Solvang Park, at the corner of Mission Dr. and First St. Free. Hot chocolate and popcorn available for purchase.

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Afternoon Movie Screening “Lion”-1 p.m. Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Dr., Solvang. Call 688-4214.

Olde School Golf School Junior Classes-1:30 p.m. PGA Professional Bob Kotowski will be instructing youth age students in beginners courses each Saturday. Call 698-6224 for more information.

Marker Workshop Art Bots: 2 p.m. Buellton Library, 140 CA-246, Buellton. Call 688-3115.

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Jazz and Beyond featuring “trioKAIT”-3 p.m. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St, Solvang.  trioKAIT shuffles influences via Kait’s unconventional compositions. A piano trio for a random-access generation. $110/full concert series or $30/induvial concert. Visit www.solvangfestivaltheater.com.

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Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA Swim Lessons Begin-Visit www.ciymca.org or call 686-2037 for information on the variety of classes available.

Storytellers Summer Camp-24th through 28th from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum, 705 McClelland Street, Santa Maria. Does your child dream of being an artist or author? Jill Iversen, the Discovery Museum’s artist in residence, will lead campers, ages 8-12, in daily art and creative writing projects. The week will culminate with a young authors fair showcasing the campers’ work. $85/members or $100/non-members. Space is limited. To register, visit www.smvdiscoverymuseum.org or call 928-8414.

Ravine Summer Day Camp with Buellton Parks and Rec-7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Ravine Water Park, 2301 Airport Rd., Paso Robles. Drop off and pick up at Buellton Rec Center. To register, Visit www.buelltonrec.com.

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Storytime Michael Katz-10:30 a.m. Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Dr., Solvang. Call 688-4214.

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Santa Barbara Wine Country: Do We Have a Viable Future? Seminar-1:30-5:30 p.m. Santa Ynez Valley Marriot, 555 McMurray Rd, Buellton. The Econ Alliance will be hosting this event that discusses the sustainability of wine production and sales within our community. $65/individual ticket. Table sponsorships available. Visit www.econallieancewineforum.eventbrite.com.

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YMCA Parent’s Night Out

Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum Fundraiser-5:30-9 p.m. 3596 Sagunto St, Santa Ynez. Fundraiser to benefit the museum. Guests will be welcomed by Mariachi Lo Mejor De Jalisco then entertained by Equestrian entertainer and trick roper, Ramon Becerra all while enjoying specially selected Foley wines.  A delicious “Fiesta Buffet” will be served and museum supporters will have the opportunity to bid on exciting auction packages, including a special filming of Gordon Ramsay’s show at Fox studios, or an exciting evening of music by the  T-Bone Ramblers. After the auction, the evening’s headliner, Dave Stamey will entertain with his special selection of music that gained him, “Six time entertainer of the year by the Western Music Association”.  $100/member and $125/non-member. Reserve a spot by calling 688-7889 or visit www.santaynezmuseum.org.

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International Guitar Festival-All Day event in Solvang. Song In My Heart Studio has invited European-American Youth Guitar Orchestra and five international guitar artists and educators to join in celebration of guitar. Over 38 guitar students from Stuttgart (Germany), Pasadena and Solvang will collaborate and perform at multiple locations. Master classes and workshops are organized to provide local students the benefit of international faculty talent. Visit www.simheart.com.

Buellton BBQ Bonanza-11 a.m.-2 p.m. River View Park. Music, vendors, cookie contest. Free. Visit www.buelltonrec.com

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Pyjama Drama-31st through August 4th from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum, 705 McClelland Street, Santa Maria. Kids ages 5 to 7 will spend the week singing, dancing, and playing make believe with PCPA alumnae Megan Walker of Pyjama Drama. Campers in this internationally acclaimed program will perform for their families at the end of the week. $85/members or $100/non-members. Space is limited. To register, visit www.smvdiscoverymuseum.org or call 928-8414.

Vacation Bible School-9 a.m.-12 p.m. Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church, 1825 Alamo Pintado Rd., Solvang. Visit www.syvpc.org.

Summer Quilt Camp-31st through 4th from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Creation Station Fabric and Quilt Shop, 252 CA-246, Buellton. $150 course fee not including the cost of supplies. To register visit www.thecreationstation.com.

Santa Ynez Valley Youth Football and Cheer First Practice-5 p.m. SYHS Elks Field. Make sure registration forms are completed by visiting www.pirateyfl.com for football or e-mail mltay@comcast.net for cheer.

Every Day

Cachuma Lake Recreation – Wildlife cruises and boat rentals, fishing, nature walks and Nature Center. Visit www.countyofsb.org/parks.

Zaca Creek Golf Course – Perfect little 9-hole course, daily from sunrise to sunset. No tee times. Call 691-9272.

Every Monday

Senior T’ai Chi – 9:15 a.m.; Arthritis Class at the Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-1086.

Adult Coloring – 2nd and 4th Monday every month at 1 p.m. at the Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-1086.

Senior Issues-2nd and 4th Monday every month at 1 p.m. at the Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-1086.

Weight Room-6-8 a.m. and 1:30-8 p.m. Buellton Rec Center, 301 2nd St., Buellton. $3. Call 688-1086.

Every Tuesday

Knitting-9 a.m.; Computer class 9:30 a.m.; Bridge and Poker 1 p.m. at the Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-1086.

Easy Riders Indoor Cycle-11-11:30 a.m. at the Buellton Senior Center, West Hwy. 246, Buellton. Call 688-4571.

Preschool Storytime-11:15 a.m. Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Dr., Solvang. Call 688-4214.

Country 2 Step Dance Lessons-6:30 p.m. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St, Santa Ynez. Visit www.mavericksaloon.com.

Every Wednesday

Music Under the Stars-6:30-8:30 p.m. The Vineyard House, 3631 Sagunto Street, Santa Ynez. The longest running live music event in the valley is taking place once again. Performances will be held every Wednesday through September 13th. For reservations call 688-2886. Visit www.thevineyardhouse.com for a full list of events.

Adult Dance West Coast Swing Basics-7 p.m. Solvang Vets Hall. Free.

Solvang Summer Concert Series-5-8 p.m. Occurring through August 16th. Solvang Park, between First St. and Mission Dr. The Series features musicians and bands of varied genres playing to crowds of both locals and tourists, who are invited to picnic in the Park during the family-friendly, evening concert events. Free. Food and drink available for purchase.

Solvang Farmers Market-2:30-6:30 p.m. Between Mission Dr. and Copenhagen Dr., Solvang.

Yoga-9:15 a.m.; Bingo at 1 p.m., Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-1086.

Knit and Crochet-1 p.m. at the Buellton Senior Center, West Hwy. 246, Buellton. Call 688-4571.

Wiggly Storytime-10:30 a.m. 11:15 a.m. Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Dr., Solvang. Call 688-4214.

Every Thursday

Line Dance Lessons-6:30 p.m. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St, Santa Ynez. Visit www.mavericksaloon.org.

Arthritis Class- 10:15 a.m.; Poker at 1 p.m. at the Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-1086.

Chair Excercises-10 a.m. at the Buellton Senior Center, West Hwy. 246, Buellton. Call 688-4571.

Tail Waggin’ Tutors-3:30 p.m. Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Dr., Solvang. Call 688-4214.

Every Friday

Pilates – 10:00 a.m. at the Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-1086.

Bingo – 1 p.m. at the Buellton Senior Center, West Hwy. 246, Buellton. Call 688-4571.

Old Town Market Kick Off-5-8 p.m. 100 South H. St., Lompoc. Farmers Market featuring food, drinks, activities, music and vendors.

Live music – 5 to 7 p.m. at Carr Vineyards and Winery, 3563 Numancia St., Santa Ynez. For more information visit www.carrwinery.com.

Firkin Friday at Figueroa Mountain Brew – 5-10 p.m. at the Buellton and Los Olivos Figueroa Mountain Brewery locations. For more information visit www.figmtnbrew.com.

Every Saturday

Live Music Under the Stars-Mad and Vin Courtyard at The Landsby, 1576 Mission Dr., Solvang. Enjoy live entertainment every Saturday evening in the newly renovated courtyard. Bar menu eats and drinks available during the event. For more information call 688-3121.

Guided Nature Walk-10:00-11:30 a.m. Neal Taylor Nature Center, 2265 Highway 154, Santa Barbara. All Ages. Free. For more information visit www.sbparks.org.

Junior Rangers-12:30-1:30 p.m. Neal Taylor Nature Center, 2265 Highway 154, Santa Barbara. Geared towards children ages 3 and up. Free. For more information visit www.sbparks.org.

“Going Batty”-Meet at Dusk. Neal Taylor Nature Center, 2265 Highway 154, Santa Barbara. Talk and living exhibit of local bats. Watch them as they come out to feed. Seasonal event ending in September. Free. For more information visit www.sbparks.org.

“New Music” Concerts-3:30-7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The Crooked Path, 2885 Grand Ave. Listen to indie singer/songwriter Bent Myggen and his fellow musicians play his original Americana in a beautiful shaded garden.

Every Week

Crafting-Monday through Wednesday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and Friday through Saturday 12-5:30 p.m. Buellton  Library, 140 W Hwy 246, Buellton.

Coming Up – log onto www.cityofsolvang.com or www.buelltonrec.com to see the full schedule of programs and events from adult sports, youth sports, teen dances, field trips and excursions and more!

The post July 18-31 Events Calendar appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Ray Lopez, the Director of Circle V Ranch Camp, located across from Cachuma Lake in the Santa Ynez Valley just 20 minutes north of Santa Barbara, has announced that spaces and camperships (scholarships) are still available for three of this summer’s sessions:

Session Two: Wednesday, July 5 to Monday, July 10, 2017 ~ Holiday Theme Week

Session Three: Tuesday, July 11 to Sunday, July16, 2017 ~ Space Week with NASA/JPL Volunteer Educators

Session Eight: Tuesday, August 15 to Sunday, August 20, 2017 ~ Adventure Theme Week

Each Circle V Ranch Camp session is six days and five nights of traditional supervised summer fun for boys and girls ages 7 to 13. Campers enjoy activities including archery, arts & crafts, hiking, swimming in the pool, learning about nature, reading skills, painting, photography, playing baseball, basketball, ping pong, foosball, soccer, miniature golf and of course, campfires, skits and singing. There is no TV, radio or internet access to affect the experience. Campers stay in wood cabins or traditional canvas tents. Three nutritious daily meals served family-style in the Dining Lodge are not only for food, but also for camaraderie and fellowship.

In summer 2016, the camp hosted more than 1,000 children for this time-honored experience. The Circle V Ranch Camp fee for six days/ five nights including lodging, all meals, activities, recreation and supervised fun is $450 per child. “Camperships” (scholarship funds made by individuals and groups’ donations) are available for qualified campers as low as $78 per child. For complete information, visit http://www.circlevranchcamp.org/datesthemesfees.html

Circle V Ranch Camp was founded by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles in 1945 and has been located on 30 acres in the Los Padres National Forest in Santa Barbara County since 1990.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Circle V Ranch Camp main registration office at 323-224-6213 to receive the Camp application or apply online at www.circlevranchcamp.org 

The post Circle V Ranch Camp Has Space and Camperships Still Available for Summer 2017 appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

By Raiza Giorgi

Rec Queen Katherine Brocke loves her role as one of four track and field captains for the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School team.

Katherine Brocke takes her role seriously as a captain for Santa Ynez Valley Union High School’s track and field team, because it involves helping her teammates get through a competition, win or lose.

“It’s really hard to be a teenager these days, with pressures from all different angles and social media that portrays this alternate reality, when really some kids are just struggling. I want them to know that I am there for my teammates and encourage them,” she said.

That attitude was one of the reasons that the 18-year-old was chosen as the 2017 Rec Queen for Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation, which kicks off its fundraising campaign in a few days. Katherine will be participating in a series of fundraising events for Youth Rec to raise money for its year-round community efforts to provide recreation facilities and opportunities.

Photo by Mike Mesikep Photography –
Katherine Brocke was thrilled when she found out she had been chosen as Rec Queen for Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation’s 2017 fundraising campaign.

“I was on my way home from babysitting when my mom called me and told me that I had been selected for the Youth Rec Queen and I about came unglued, I was so excited,” she said.

Katherine has seen the posters each year since moving to the valley when she was 11 with her mother, Maili Halme, a chef who owns a local catering company.

Her grandparents, Paul and Susan Halme, moved to the valley in 1976 to raise their children. Her grandfather is an attorney and her grandmother owns and operates Solvang Bakery with her aunt, Melissa Redell.

“I am so thrilled that I get to be a part of this organization and help people understand just how much Youth Rec does for our community. I want to tell as many people as I can to get involved and participate,” she said.

SYV Youth Rec has raised more than $3 million in the past 62 years for local youth programs and funded many projects at the high school, fields at local elementary and middle schools, and the baseball and soccer fields at Sunny Fields Park, among other accomplishments.

When Ballard School was remodeled, for example, the group put in the basketball courts, ball fields and playground equipment. Youth Rec also contributed to the construction of the new barn facility at the high school’s farm, and completed renovations of the baseball fields and softball fields. Youth Rec continues to sponsor the Youth Basketball and Summer Swim Programs, support Arts Outreach youth programs, and maintain the support of local youth teams and tournaments in the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos.

“When I moved here from Ventura I was having a hard time making friends, and when I started dancing at Los Olivos Dance Gallery and doing soccer all the girls were so nice and welcoming. I really felt like I found a family and people that support me,” Katherine said.

When she retired from dance to concentrate on track and field she trained very hard for the heptathlon, which requires competing in seven events over two days.

“I figured out that my strengths were really in the long jump and short sprints, so I started focusing on those and I think I’ve done pretty well. Being on this team is more than just participating in a sport, it’s my stress reliever, and I get a lot of motivation from everyone,” she said.

When she isn’t on the track, Katherine loves to spend time with her family. She is usually at her grandmother’s house a few days a week or babysitting.

“I thought that babysitting wasn’t a ‘real job’ and man, it is! I love being with the kids and it’s allowed me to afford my own car. I pay for my clothes and save for college,” she said.

Katherine plans to attend esthetician school in Los Angeles and then get a business degree. She wants to travel the world and explore how skin care is done in other cultures and countries and then one day move back to the valley and raise a family of her own.

“This valley is so special, and I can’t image what life would have been like not living here,” she said.

For more information on SYV Youth Rec, log onto www.syvyr.com. The schedule of Katherine’s fundraising is listed there, along with information about attending or donating.

Top 5 with Katherine Brocke

1.     Favorite movie: “Dream Girls”

2.     Favorite local place: Her grandmother’s house in Solvang

3.     Favorite local activity: Driving back roads to see all the greenery and wildflowers.

4.     Favorite places to eat: S.Y. Kitchen, Panino, California Taco

5.     Favorite treats at Solvang Bakery: Peanut butter brownies or the almond rings.

The post Rec Queen loves her leadership role appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

The Santa Ynez Valley Foundation is seeking nominations for Man and Woman of the Year, which are due by tomorrow. They invite you to nominate an individual you believe is worth of being honored as an outstanding life-long volunteer. If that person should receive special recognition for their efforts in the areas of health and human services, senior citizens, youth, education and cultural activities they would also like to know. Click on the form HERE.

Last year’s winners were Jim Lohnas and Dorothy Brunton. The Lifetime Achievement recipients were Helmut and Doris Holzheu and Roger and Ann Nielsen.

The Valley Foundation has also honored Youth in Service since 2013, so if you know of a high school student who is improving the community, nominate them as well HERE

The Santa Ynez Valley Foundation improves the lives of people in the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos by investing in programs that feed the poor, promote health, nurture seniors, challenge our youth and inspire the community to make a difference. With the help of caring supporters, the Foundation also builds permanent funds to enhance the quality of life now and for the future.

Founded in 1991 by Stuart C. Gildred, The Santa Ynez Valley Foundation, a community foundation, has continuously grown through the years to become an integral part of The Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos. It awards grants to nonprofit organizations that deliver programs and services to residents in one of five focus areas: health and human services, senior programs, youth, education and cultural programs. Funds from the foundation’s endowment, and support from donations provide funding for these annual grants. Learn more at www.syvalleyfoundation.org.

Contact the Valley Foundation at 540 Alisal Rd., Suite #10 Solvang, CA 93463; call 805-688-2991 or email syvf@verizon.net.

The post Man and Woman of the Year nominations due tomorrow appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.