Most know that red tail hawks, eagles, falcons, owls, coyotes, and bobcats are only a few of the essential predatory animals in our region. Essential because they help maintain nature’s balance by taking care of unwanted rodents, such as annoying ground squirrels, mice or garden rats. What folks may not know is that the modern and convenient use of rodent and pesticide poisoning has thrown Mother Nature a major curve ball in a very big way.

By Editor in Chief, Michelle Minder-Massey
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Dry Winter Forces Early Fire Season

Santa Barbara County Fire Department officially declared the start of fire season Monday, after a dry winter left hillsides ripe for wildfires....

By Jared Blankenship
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Valley People

Local Mom Makes Volunteering a Way of Life

When it comes to community volunteering and outreach, there are those who bite off more than they can chew, sometimes leaving behind nearly a full plate and other times choking under pressure, but not Melody Hunt....

By India Allen
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NEWS IN BRIEF

Former Solvang Mayor Dies at Age 81

William S. Warwick, former Solvang mayor, died Monday, May 14 at the age of 81. Warwick suffered from esophageal cancer. His term as mayor began in 1992 and ended in 1996. He also volunteered for the Solvang Fire Department and served on the Solvang Lutheran Home Board of Directors.

By SYV Journal Staff
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SPORTS

Only one Pirates team is left standing after the week’s CIF playoffs.

Boy’s tennis beat Walnut High School on the road May 15 to advance to the semifinals of the Division IV CIF playoffs. Meanwhile, boy’s volleyball fell to Arroyo Grande in the second round of competition at home May 15. And the baseball team also lost May 15 in its wildcard match up against...

By Jared Blankenship
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