Note: Though we’ve printed quarterly issues since 1999, we’ve digitized from the current issue back to Spring 2008. Older issues have not been digitized for display on our site.
OstrichLand USA
For an unforgettable experience with giant creatures from half a world away, look no further than OstrichLand USA, a local landmark featuring dozens of flapping, galloping and eyelash-batting emus and ostriches. Here, visitors step into a magical place where our feathered friends live 75 years, sprint 45 miles per hour, stand nine feet tall and… Continue Reading
True Addiction Clothing Boutique
While some people crave adventure and others pine for a shaded hammock, a sizeable number get their kicks on freewheeling shopping sprees. Three years ago, in a moment of insight, retailer Michelle Kristoffersen tapped into the latter when she opened a boutique and called it “True Addiction.” “I was trying to come up with a… Continue Reading
The Marzullos: Cut Out for Valley Life
When a happily married couple values the same things—family, life-long learning and service to others—their union strengthens the very fabric of their community. Year after year, as they share laughter and fellowship with those they meet, the world around them reflects a little more of their unwavering light. One such couple is Rick and Linda… Continue Reading
You Can Lead a Horse to Water…and You Can Make Them Cross!
Its the wet season and all of us horse enthusiasts are bound and determined to keep our saddles broken in and our horses in shape. We refuse to take time off. Which of course leads us to the age-old question that never ceases to arise, “Hmm, thats a lovely stream up ahead, I wonder if… Continue Reading
Art and History Bloom in Solvang
Esther Jacobsen Bates brings the Elverhøj Museum into full flower for Solvang’s Centennial. Cover Story — It’s June 5, 1960. Four-year-old Esther Jacobsen is up early this morning, too wound up to sleep. After breakfast, she puts on her special Danish outfit and steps outside to gather a small bouquet of flowers from the garden.… Continue Reading
Happy Birthday Solvang 1911-2011
A century ago, in January 1911, the Danish-American Colony corporation bought 9,000+ acres of land stretching from Alamo Pintado Creek to Rancho Jonata (Buellton area). The new settlement was named Solvang, which means “sunny field” in Danish. The corporation advertised in Danish-language newspapers, and almost immediately Danish immigrants from all over the U.S. and Denmark… Continue Reading
A Life of Service
Business Profile — Chris Nielsen brings his ethic of responsibility to his Edward Jones branch. For Chris Nielsen, the Santa Ynez Valley isn’t just a place to live; it’s the place he calls home — in every sense of the word. With roots that extend deep into the rich, fertile soil, he is a native son… Continue Reading
Leo and Mary Mathiasen
Close to the center of Solvang—near enough to invite tourist parking during weekend festivals—sits a lovely but modest home owned by Leo and Mary Mathiasen. Along with their house, the Mathiasens moved to this neighborhood in 1961, when Solvang was a small community but brimming with Danish heritage. Leo and Mary purchased their house from… Continue Reading
Capturing the One True Moment
Business Profile — Do what you love, and a career will follow. Just ask Becca Nuss. She took a passion for photography that began as a hobby when she was in high school and molded it into a livelihood. Nuss, who grew up in Los Olivos, is a portrait and wedding photographer who uses the… Continue Reading
Keeping Those Valley Wheels Turning
Olivera’s celebrates 61 years, Emmet Hickey is in the driver’s seat. The patient is gray in color, four appendages dangling, insides open, guts being explored. We are awaiting a prognosis when the chief’s cell phone, attached to his black leather belt, rings. “This is Emmet. How can I help?’’ The doctor is in. Meet Emmet… Continue Reading