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Join the Chamber for a trip
to San Antonio, Texas!

It's another fun trip for the Solvang Chamber of Commerce as they plan to travel to San Antonio, Texas on a special holiday vacation full of lights, laughter and libations! Following a rich tradition of decorating the River Walk area of San Antonio with over 200,000 luminaries and lights, the itinerary includes such things as The Alamo, The Western White House and a tour of Bandera, "The Cowboy Capital of the World!"
Join us for the informative and
free presentation of all the details on
Wednesday, May 1st, 2013 Bethania Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall 603 Atterdag Road in Solvang at 6:30 PM or in...
Lompoc on Monday, May 13th, 2013
Lompoc Veterans Memorial Building
100 E. Locust Avenue at 6:30 PM
Refreshments will be served and there|
will be a $100 discount for early sign-ups.
If you are interested in learning more about this great opportunity to experience some of America's richest history or for more information about the presentation meetings on May 1st or May 13th, please call:
Linda Johansen at (805) 686-1644 or Heather Bedford (805) 315-6672
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You've probably heard of social media. You may even understand the value social media can bring to your business. Now wondering how to start?
Join us April 17 2013, 12pm, at the
Holiday Inn Express to find out!
In this introductory session, we cover strategies and best practices to get the most out of your social media activities, including:
- What social media marketing really is and why use it
- Introduction to social media channels and how to evaluate what's right for your business or organization
- How small businesses are using these low-cost tools to gain visibility, develop relationships and drive sales and response
- How to create good content for your social media marketing campaigns and time management
- How to balance social media marketing with email marketing and your other marketing efforts.
Presented by Nick Cavarra of Social Punch Marketing and Sponsored by the Solvang Chamber of Commerce, Holiday Inn Express and Constant Contact
Fee: $20.00 Chamber Members or
$25.00 for Non-Chamber Members.
Refreshments will be provided
For more information or to RSVP and sign up for this seminar: 688-0701 or solvangchamber@solvangcc.com
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 Solvang to Hold Public Workshop on Mission Drive Traffic Issues & Concerns The City of Solvang will hold a Public Workshop on Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at 6:00 pm in the Council Chambers located at 1644 Oak Street to take public input on the Mission Drive Corridor Traffic Circulation Study. The City would like to hear from you. What do you believe are the primary issues, needs and concerns regarding traffic flow on Mission Drive through the City of Solvang? We would like to hear your thoughts on bicycle, pedestrian, transit and vehicle issues, needs and concerns. This is your opportunity to express your views and opinions. Contact: Matt van der Linden Public Works Director (805) 688-5575 or mattv@cityofsolvang.com |
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Join us April 11 for
Some Fun Amongst the Vines!
This month's Solvang Chamber Mixer will be held at: 
Rideau Vineyards in Solvang
Come relax and enjoy in a truly remarkable setting. Wine, food and fun are always a part of our evening get together so feel free to invite a fellow business owner. More information is to come but be sure to...
Save the Date! 5pm - 7pm
For more information contact
the Chamber office. 688-0701
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The California Energy Action Summit to be held at the
Santa Ynez Valley Marriott
in Buellton
This event will be held April 12
8:00am - 4:30pm
Finding California's Energy Utopia
How do we achieve our dream of a safe, environmentally friendly energy future that is both technically feasible and economically affordable? And how do we unlock the potential of California's vast energy resources to create economic vitality, high quality jobs and realize our potential as an energy source for the nation?
The California Energy Action Summit brings together national energy experts, policy makers, academic economists and regional leaders in a focused dialogue about new energy technologies and their role in the future economic well-being of the state. USC's groundbreaking report analyzing the potential impact of the development of the Monterey Shale on job creation, economic activity, personal incomes and government tax revenues over the next 15 years will be presented, along with results of UCSB's Santa Barbara County Onshore Oil and Gas Economic Study.
Attendees will interact with private and public sector leaders about laying the foundation for a secure energy future, continued environmental leadership, robust economic growth and job creation in Santa Barbara County and California
Keynote Speakers include:
Bill White: Sustainable and Responsible Oil and Gas Development
Shirley Weber: The Changing Environment in Sacramento
Featured Presentations:
Powering California: The Monterey Shale & California's Economic Future
Onshore Oil and Gas in Santa Barbara County: Regional Economic Impact
Oil-bearing Diatomite: Another Huge California Resource
California Renewable Portfolio Standards Building Effective Public-Private Partnerships for GHG Emissions Reduction Regulatory Issues Facing Energy Development in California Panel Discussions: Emerging Energy Sources: Efficiencies, Renewables and Alternative Fuels Greening of the Oil Patch: Recycling and Renewables in California Oil Fields For more information, visit www.calenergysummit.org or call 701-335-4498 |
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Solvang Chamber
Office Hours
The Solvang Chamber
of Commerce regular
office hours are:
Mon., Wed. & Friday
10 am - 1 pm.
Other hours by
appointment.
Contact Sue Moualim,
Executive Director at:
or 805-688-0701
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Thank You To Members Who Donated Items For Our March Mixer Hosted by the Holiday Inn Express
~ Kathelene Williams- Turk DDS
~ Graphic Systems
~ Jockey Person to Person
~ Jim Hazard Chiropractic
~ The Olive House
~ The Bookloft
~ Village Spinning & Weaving
~ Tower Pizza
~ Wine Valley Inn
~ Holiday Inn
~ Dr. Joel R. Morton
~ Valley Alternative Healing
A special thanks go out to our hosts Kamesh Nookala, Lisa Walter and the staff at the Holiday Inn Express for hosting such a wonderful mixer!
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Upcoming Community
Events Calendar
Every Wednesday
Solvang Farmer's Market
April 4, 2013 SYV Hotel Association Meeting
SYV Marriott in Buellton - 9am
April 5, 2013
Executive BOD Meeting
Chamber Office - 9am
April 8, 2013
City Council Meeting
Council Chambers - 7pm
April 10, 2013
Mission Drive Traffic Circulation Workshop
Council Chambers - 6pm
April 11, 2013
Solvang Chamber Mixer
Rideau Vineyards - 5pm - 7pm
April 11, 2013
Board of Architectural Review
Council Chambers - 6:30pm
April 16, 2013
SCC Board of Directors Meeting
Chamber Office -12pm
April 17, 2013
Solvang Third Wednesday
April 17, 2013
Constant Contact Seminar
Holiday Inn Express -10am
April 22, 2013
City Council Meeting
Council Chambers - 7pm
April 24, 2013
City Connection Lunch
SBBT Building - 12pm
April 25, 2013
Solvang Conference
& Visitors Bureau
Council Chambers - 8:30am
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SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ADVERTISERS
SCC Member Inserts, Ads and Promo Specials
~ Rabobank
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SOLVANG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2013 Board of Directors
President
Wandering Dog Wine Bar
Heather Bedford
Vice-President Graphic Systems Solvang
Kathelene Williams-Turk Secretary
Kathelene Williams-Turk DDS - Comprehensive Dentistry
Daniel A. Johnson
Treasurer
Johnson & Johnson CPAs
Brandi Baker
Chumash Casino Resort
Calisse Courtney
Courtney & Doherty LLP
Claudia Delgado
Santa Ynez Valley News
Tenley Fohl
Tenley Fohl Photography
Dan Greenwald
Paula's Pancake House
Brigitte Guehr
Mirabelle Inn
& Restaurant
Michael Larner
Larner Winery & Vineyard
Margee Lennard
Jockey Person to Person
Harlan Munneke
Mole Hole of Solvang
Chamber Economist
Dr. Kenneth Harwood
Executive Director
Sue Moualim
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 S olvang Third Wednesday continues
its fun and festivities!
Mark your calendars! April 17, 2013 is the day to shop local, save money, and have fun! Over 60 participating businesses offer discounts on products and services such as hardware and garden supplies, jewelry, shoes, toys, teeth whitening, and more - not to mention events like jewelry and craft making, smart phone help, book signings, and art demonstrations! There is something for everyone on Solvang Third Wednesday!
April's Cash Mob has a new twist!
The ever popular Cash Mob is a 20/20 event
this month at one of Solvang's finest shops.
Bring $20 to spend or receive 20% off during the Cash Mob hour from 5:30 - 6:30 Mother's Day, Father's Day and graduations are coming up - this is a great place for a gift, or something very special for yourself.
Join the Search! Are you good at finding hidden treasure? Think you know all there is to know about the City of Solvang? On May 15th test your skills and have a great time participating in the S3W Scavenger Hunt presented by Solvang Parks & Recreation and Solvang Third Wednesday! Starting time is 5:30 pm in Solvang Park. Form a team with friends or co-workers and get ready to have a blast! There will be a pizza party at Tower Pizza for all participants after the hunt. For a complete listing of special offers, discounts and events go to www.solvang3rdwednesday.com
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City Connection Brown Bag Lunch Series
brings important information to business owners
The March City Connection Brown Bag Lunch brought a lively group of business owners together with Arleen Pelster, Planning & Economic Development Director and Lisa Martin, Associate Planner for the City of Solvang.
New revisions to the sign ordinance were discussed with an emphasis being placed on flexibility and a desire to reach out to businesses to create signage solutions. If getting to the planning office is difficult because of staffing and time constraints, Arleen wanted business owners to know that she and/or her staff can also come to your business to discuss options with you. Copies of the new sign ordinance were given to attendees. If you were not able to attend and would like a copy or have any questions, please feel free to contact Arleen at 688-4414.
The second workshop of our City Connection
Brown Bag Lunch series will be held April 24th at 12pm
~ This workshop will define and provide information regarding the Change of Use or Occupancy as per Building Code Requirements.
Topics will include:
- What Constitutes a Change of Use
- Whether or not a Land Use Clearance is required
- Building Permit Requirements
- Permit Application procedures and forms
~ This workshop is a must for construction and real estate professionals, business owners considering a change in location and residents.
Bring your own Brown Bag Lunch. Bottled water and dessert will be provided.
Please RSVP as space is limited. The workshop will be held in the
Santa Barbara Bank & Trust building meeting room in Solvang.
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MEMBER NEWS

Atterdag Village presents the "Hollywood Revisited" Fashion Show
Don your best Hollywood Glam and join us at the Buellton Marriott April 6, 2013 beginning at 12:30pm
Experience what it's like to watch the stars walk the red carpet as your favorite Tinsel Town classics come to life in Hollywood Revisited. This stunning musical revue showcases a truly dazzling lineup of costumes actually worn by the stars in the original Hollywood films.
Set to the music that defined the times and presented by top notch Broadway and Hollywood performers, Hollywood Revisited will leave you in awe as you learn about and come close enough to touch these original historic costume designs of Hollywood's Golden Age. To top off the event a shopping boutique will be open from 10:30 am with a wide array of unique vendors featuring clothing, handbags, vintage and handmade jewelry.
The $50.00 event fee includes lunch, a mimosa and the show.
Hollywood Glam attire is optional!
Sponsored by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, Montecito Bank and Trust & Wealth Management Group, and Ramona & Allan Pacela
For more information call: Linda 686-1644 or Sharon 686-5779
or www.hollywoodrevisited.com to learn more about the show

Get A Taste of This!
This Spring you can help the Foodbank of
Santa Barbara County end hunger.
April 4 - 7 join participating wineries for the
3rd Annual Food on the Vine
Bring three canned goods to participating wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley and enjoy complimentary wine tastings. Be sure to visit Chamber members; Lucas & Lewellen Estate Vineyards, Casa Cassara Winery & Vineyard and The Good Life, A Craft Beer & Wine Cellar.
This event is sponsored in part by the
Solvang Chamber of Commerce
T he kick-off event will be held at
Avant Tapas & Wine in Buellton
April 4th from 6-8pm
Enjoy great food, wine and live entertainment!
$20.00/person to benefit the Foodbank
For more information: Foodbank of Santa Barbara County
The first ever Wine, Women, & Shoes Extravaganza
to benefit CASA of Santa Barbara County
Kick up your heels and strike a pose at an event unlike any other as Wine, Women & Shoes debuts in
Santa Barbara on Sunday, April 28, 2013
from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the stunning
Montecito Country Club
Sip sensational wines, shop the latest fashions, bid on unique live auction lots, enter the Key-to-the-Closet raffle presented by California Closets, mingle with the charming "Shoe Guys" dishing up must-haves on their silver platters, and much more - all to benefit a fabulous cause!
The mission of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Santa Barbara County is to assure a safe, permanent, nurturing home to every abused and/or neglected child by providing a highly trained volunteer to advocate for them in the court system.
To reserve tickets, become a sponsor, or gain more information for the event, please call (805) 845-8364 x 5984.
For more information on CASA of Santa Barbara County
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NEW MEMBERS
Excel Personnel Services
Excel Personnel Services is a full-service staffing firm serving California's Central Coast.  We help companies use staffing as a tool to drive productivity, control personnel expenses, and manage hiring risks. Integrity and excellence are at the core of everything Excel does. If you're an employer, Excel can offer creative staffing solutions and shorten your search for exceptional clerical, industrial, and professional employees. If you're looking for work, Excel can help you find temporary and full-time jobs that are a terrific fit for your skills, experience, and interests.
For more information, call (805) 735-6723 or visit www.excelpersonnelservices.com
Central Coast Access Specialists, LLC
The goal of Central Coast Access Specialists is to assist architects, designers, business and property owners in understanding and achieving compliance with the requirements of federal and state construction-related accessibility laws. By doing so, they strive to make businesses throughout the Central Coast more accessible, usable, and enjoyable to a wider variety of users. Central Coast Access Specialists, LLC, is a company founded in Santa Barbara County by Chris Hansen, former Plan Check Supervisor for the City of Santa Barbara, California to assist central coast architects, contractors, business and property owners in becoming compliant with California and Federal accessibility laws. Chris is an "Access Specialist", certified by the State of California (CASp #270 - 2010), an ICC Certified Plans Examiner (1999) and an ICC certified Building Inspector (1995).
For more information, call (805) 705-8846
Parts Unknown
Parts Unknown is an upscale shopping experience with an attitude towards adventure, travel, leisure, sports, and the great outdoors. Three distinct types of apparel and related accessories for men and women are offered in their appropriate environments... the North Country, the Southwest, and the South Pacific. With locations all over California and stores in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, the store and its clothing brands have a decidedly Southwest flare that resonates greatly with our stylish Santa Ynez Valley. Make sure to stop by the Solvang location to browse and shop.
For more information call (805) 686-9050
or e-mail at solvang@partsunknown.com
Eco Angel Enterprises & Pet Care
Eco Angel Enterprises' goal is to help Save the Earth. They work to accomplish that by donating games to public schools. Save the world and support environmental awareness through their ecology game! Eco Angel Enterprises is a non-profit organization based in Southern California that distributes and donates the ultimate Earth and eco-friendly board games to such places in California as Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Diego, San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, Palo Alto, and San Jose, and other major cities in the US such as Seattle, Portland, New York City, Washington DC, Boston, Kuai, Austin, and Chicago. Owner Karen Palmer has made a success of this non-profit business. Karen's other passions include dog training, internet radio hosting, writing books, and teaching Kundalini yoga.
For more information call (805) 452-2218
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 Food Prices When Solvang Was Two Years Old
From the desk of:
Kenneth Harwood
Economist
Solvang Chamber of Commerce
Solvang celebrated its second birthday in 1913. Here are prices of a few foods in 1913 and 2013

Prices were the national average prices per pound in January of each year, excepting milk (gallon) and eggs (dozen).
The cheapest of these seven items in both years was potatoes. Eggs were the most expensive of these items in 1913, and cheese was most expensive in 2013.
Potatoes rose in price more than 30 fold in 100 years, while eggs rose a little more than five fold. Recently potatoes rose 67% from $0.39 a pound in April, 2000, to $0.65 a pound just eleven years later,
The quality of many items improved with the years. Milk became fortified, while much beef was grain fed before marketing instead of being range fed.
More households were rural in 1913 than 2013. Rural families typically kept vegetable gardens and fruit trees for household uses. Most rural families canned fresh vegetables and fruits at home in summer to eat in winter. Fresh vegetables were scarce in January, 1913, while fresh vegetables were available widely in January, 2013. Advances in food processing and faster transportation of fresh foods helped to make the difference. Please see online Bureau of Labor Statistics, Beyond the Numbers, February, 2013, for details of these and other food prices. Recent national prices of potatoes are in 2012 Potato Statistical Yearbook, page 67, on the Website of National Potato Council.
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Advertise With Your Business Cards Here
Place your business card here.
For more information call the
Chamber Office: 688-0701
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The Great San Antonio Getaway -
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 SW3 Scavenger Hunt -
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