The Effect of Neverland on Santa Ynez Valley

The swarm of people to Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch after his unfortunate passing has left an impact on the surrounding communities of Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, and the Danish town of Solvang, all encompassed in the Santa Ynez Valley region. In this small town lover's opinion, it would be a huge mistake to turn the ranch in to a tourist attraction in the way that Graceland was transformed after the death of Elvis. As a frequent visitor, and respectful admirer of the Santa Ynez Valley, the roads and accomodations in the area cannot handle the estimated influx of fans. Santa Ynez valley needs to stay small with its old world charm, not be overrun by tourists who couldn't care less of the estabished culture of the area.