Above, Bamma Cardenas and the Warriors girls volleyball team won their second game of the year – and second game in a row – with a three-set sweep against the Santa Paula Cardinals on Sept. 24. The team started out strong with a 25-15 win in the first set, followed by a 25-19 win in the second and a match-sealing 25-22 win in the third and final set. Next on the team’s calendar is the annual Fall Classic Tournament on Sept. 28. Check out more Carpinteria wins on pg. 26 of this week’s print.
BRIEFLY
COMPILED BY EVELYN SPENCE AND JUN STARKEY COURTESY PHOTOS
Blessing of the Animals: Oct. 5
St. Joseph Church’s annual Blessing of the Animals – held in celebration of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the Patron Saint of Animals – returns on Saturday, Oct. 5 at 9 a.m.
Residents are asked to bring their (well behaved) pets, including cats, dogs, turtles, fish, guinea pigs and beyond, to be blessed. Those who cannot bring their pets in person are welcome to bring a photograph or a drawing.
The church is located at 1500 Linden Ave. For more information, reach out to the church at (805) 684-2181.
Keep an eye out for your voter guide, county says
Santa Barbara County residents who registered to vote should receive their voter guides in the mail this week, with delivery expected around Sept. 26, Santa Barbara County representative Kelsey Gerckens Buttitta said on Tuesday.
The guide will have residents’ polling place locations and hours, as well as information on each candidate and local measure. Residents can double check their voter registration online at sbcvote.com or make any changes at registertovote.ca.gov.
New lecture series begins at museum
A new lecture series, Talk & Talkback, will kick off at the Carpinteria Valley Museum of History on Monday, Sept. 30 at 5 p.m.
The lecture series’ inaugural presentation, “Moment of Truth: Separating Fact from Fiction in a Misinformation Age,” will be led by Amy Marie Orozco, a museum board of trustee and former CVN editor. Orozco will talk about the state of media in today’s age and include tips on how to be a responsible media consumer; attendees will also look back at famous misinformation moments in history.
“Moment of Truth: Separating Fact from Fiction in a Misinformation Age” was created by Central Coast journalists Starshine Roshell, Lisa Osborn and Orozco. The presentation is funded by the Santa Barbara Foundation and the Association of Women in Communications Advancement Fund.
The talk is free for museum members and $10 for non-members. The museum is located at 956 Maple Ave. in Carpinteria. Learn more by emailing info@carpinteriahistoricalmuseum.org.
Solórzano, Lee invite residents out for a hike
Carpinteria City Councilmembers Mónica Solórzano and Roy Lee invite community members to join them on a hike on Saturday, Sept. 29. All participants will meet at Tomol Interpretive Play Area, 389 Linden Ave., at 9 a.m.
Residents can meet Lee – the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors District 1 elect – and Carpinteria District 1 representative Solórzano during the 2.5-mile walk along the Carpinteria Bluffs Trail. The walk is sponsored by the Santa Barbara County Trails Council and Healthy People Healthy Trails.
Parents for CMS fundraise through business banners
Businesses can now advertise at Carpinteria Middle School by purchasing a $500 banner with Parents for Carpinteria Middle School (PFCMS).
PFCMS goals for the 2024-25 school year include field trips, at-school enrichment and campus beautification.
“We have a lot of energy and pride at Carpinteria Middle School right now and are inviting the local business community to join our efforts to support public schools and local youth,” said PFCMS President Chrystal Hoffman.
The nonprofit PFCMS raises money outside of the school’s budget for student enrichment opportunities.
Those with questions may reach out to pfcarpmiddle@gmail.com. Payments for banners can be made by Venmo to @pfcms, or through checks payable to “Parents for Carpinteria Middle School.”
Clyde Freeman, center, steps down from the board Oct. 1. At right is Carpinteria Valley History Museum Director Jayme Yahr.
Historical Society welcomes new trustee, says goodbye to board member
Carpinterian Melinda Bie is the Carpinteria Valley Historical Society’s newest board trustee, the museum announced in a press release last week, as trustee Clyde Freeman steps down effective Oct. 1.
Despite leaving the board, Freeman – the 2021 Carpinterian of the Year – said: “Don’t be too surprised if you see me volunteering there.”
Bie was introduced to the board and Freeman was thanked for his service during the museum’s volunteer luncheon on Sept. 20.
Bie was born and raised in Carpinteria and spent a lot of time growing up exploring the museum. Her mother was a docent, according to a press release from the museum. “I’m excited to work with the museum board in supporting the leadership of Jayme and seeing more community members exploring the Museum as I did,” said Bie. Learn more online at carpinteriahistoricalmuseum.org or by emailing info@carpinteriahistoricalmuseum.org.
KARLSSON FILE PHOTO
Josephina Rodriguez brought her kitten to the 2023 Blessing of the Animals.
Amy Marie Orozco
Melinda Bie, left, has joined the Carpinteria Valley Historical Society as a board member;
the life of LeRoy Villa after he was found unconscious in his car in near-100-degree heat.
Jaime Diamond honored for heroism
The Santa Barbara City Fire Department is honoring Carpinteria Unified School District Trustee Jaime Diamond for an act of heroism, according to a press release sent out by the city on Tuesday.
On Friday, Sept. 6, when temperatures were close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, Diamond “acted quickly and heroically to save the life of Mr. LeRoy Villa in a life-threatening emergency,” according to the press release from the Santa Barbara City Administrator’s Office.
Diamond found Villa unresponsive in a parked car at the Santa Barbara Golf Club with the windows up and engine off. She was unable to wake him, so Diamond sought help from David Lopez and Justin Height. Together, they relocated Villa to a cooler environment and contacted 911. Emergency responders soon arrived and took Villa to the hospital.
Diamond was awarded The Civilian Life-Saving Award on Wednesday, Sept. 25, at 3 p.m. at Fire Station 1 in Santa Barbara for her actions.
“The (Civilian Life-Saving Award) is presented to a private citizen in recognition of their swift and selfless actions in providing aid and assistance to another, resulting in the saving of a life,” the press release read.
Fire personnel from the responding engine crew 75 C praised Diamond, Lopez and Height for their quick thinking.
“Heat-related emergencies can escalate quickly, and every second counts,” Santa Barbara Fire Chief Chris Mailes said in a press release. “Thanks to Jaime Diamond’s swift actions, a life was saved, and we cannot express enough gratitude for this act of heroism.”
woman with the experience to move Carpinteria forward
“Proven leadership, strong vision, and a committed community partner.”
“Liderazgo comprobado, visión sólida y comunitaria comprometida.”
online. community. news.
Celebrate CREEK WEEK!
Thursday, September 26
10am-12pm SYCAMORE CREEK CLEANUP with the Santa Barbara Zoo. Meet near the creek bridge at Zoo entrance. For details contact NSeal@SBZoo.org.
1-3pm URBAN CREEK STROLL at SAN ANTONIO CREEK TRAIL* Meet at Tuckerʼs Grove Park. RSVP required at bit.ly/3Z1tgLY.
5-6pm CREEK WEEK ART CONTEST RECEPTION at Goleta Valley Library. Contact SNigh@CityOfGoleta.org for details.
5-7pm CREEK WEEK HAPPY HOUR at the BREWHOUSE Enjoy a Creek Week-inspired brew and meet local groups dedicated to creek and ocean protection. 229 W. Montecito St in SB. Creeks@SantaBarbaraCA.gov.
Friday, September 27
10am-12pm LIBRARY on the GO & COFFEE at the CREEK Meet at Oak Park in SB. Contact Info@SBPLibrary.LibAnswers.com.
12-1pm TOUR of UCSBʼs COMMUNITY HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION CENTER* Building 565, Mesa Rd at UCSB. Age 12 and up. Limited to 15 participants. RSVP required to OWalsh@CountyOfSB.org.
Friday, September 27 (CONT.)
4:30pm FRANKLIN TRAIL GUIDED HIKE* Meet at Franklin Creek Park on Sterling Ave in Carpinteria. RSVP to Sustainability@CarpinteriaCA.gov.
Saturday, September 28
9-10:30am EL ESTERO WATER RESOURCE CENTER TOUR* with City of SB Water Resources. Limited to 30 participants, age 8 and up, closed toed shoes required. RSVP required at bit.ly/4dtMApc.
9-10:30am GUIDED TOUR of the CARPINTERIA SALT MARSH RESERVE* Limited to 20 participants, age 8 and up. Meet at the end of Estero Dr. RSVP to AJBrooks@UCSB.edu.
9am-12pm WORK PARTY at DEVEREUX CREEK Meet at SB Shores Gate in Ellwood. Contact Ethan_Anadon@UCSB.edu for details.
10am-12pm DOCENT TOUR of the CARPINTERIA SALT MARSH Meet at the corner of Sandyland & Ash Ave in Carpinteria. Call (805) 886-4382. 11:30am-1pm CREEK THEMED CRAFTERNOON** at the Explore Ecology Makerspace above Art From Scrap, 302 E. Cota St. Drop-ins ok, age 5 and up, $8 per person. Register at bit.ly/3AXHnYO.
12-1:30pm LUNCH and LEARN: GOLETA CREEKS and WATERSHEDS* Goleta Valley Community Center. RSVP for free lunch to EnvironmentalServices@CityOfGoleta.org. Take-Home Creek Week Activities from the City of Carpinteria! Pick up fun and educational materials for kids Monday 9/23 through Friday 9/27 8am - 5pm, or download
Visit SBCreekWeek.com or Facebook.com/SBCreekWeek for full event details!
*RSVP Required **Fee to Participate
CUSD trustee Jaime Diamond, right, saved
SoCalGas halts water reclaiming effort after substandard test results
BY LIZZY RAGER
A Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) effort to reclaim over 400,000 gallons of water for irrigation this summer was halted, city of Carpinteria staff said during Monday night’s council meeting, after water quality test results fell short of the company’s water standards. SoCalGas operates transmission and high-pressure distribution pipelines throughout Santa Barbara County.
In May of this year, SoCalGas presented a water reclaiming opportunity to the Carpinteria City Council. The utility had
planned to discharge a total of 421,000 gallons of recycled water from its operations to the Carpinteria Community Farm and northern El Carro Park for irrigation.
However, after conducting water quality tests this summer, SoCalGas could not deem the recycled water as safe for irrigation use, though the tests found no hazardous waste characteristics in the water. The water was then removed by SoCalGas from the operation site.
“What was planned for initially is no longer on the table,” city of Carpinteria Public Works Director John Ilasin said to the city council on Monday. “SoCalGas
informed city staff about the particular results of the testing of the water, and that… just is not (an) acceptable type of water that they wanted to use as recycled water.”
He added: “It was just felt that this water – even though it didn’t meet the hazardous waste characteristics – it’s better to be safe than sorry and to not use it, even for irrigation use.”
Councilmemb er Mónica Solórzano asked if the problem was intrinsic to the location; Ilasin said he only had the test results from the facility itself. If SoCalGas has another facility in the immediate area that could reclaim water, the utility will
reach out to the city, he said.
Mayor Al Clark asked about the quality of the pipes, and Ilasin said though there was no information on the pipes, though from his understanding there are no structural integrity issues with the pipe.
Councilmember Wade Nomura asked about the level of contaminants in the results. Ilasin said he didn’t know those numbers off the top of his head, but that interested parties could contact him and the city for more information.
SoCalGas may return to the Carpinteria city council to explain its results, Ilasin said.
Nearly 60 first-aid incidents, 14 water rescues seen this summer
Lifeguards at Carpinteria beach reported nearly 60 first aid incidents and three major incidents requiring 911 assistance this summer, Carpinteria city staff told the council on Monday.
“We had a busy summer,” Assistant City Manager Ryan Kintz said during the council’s Monday, Sept. 23 meeting.
Lifeguards reported 14 water rescues, 59 first aid incidents, seven lost persons assisted, 317 safety contacts, 28 stingray injuries and two bee stings. Three major incidents requiring 911 assistance resulted in victim transport.
Lifeguards were on duty in Carpinteria during the Carpinteria Unified School District’s spring break, and on weekends from spring break through June; they were on the beach full-time until Labor Day. Currently, beach lifeguards are only on the beach on the weekends, and lifeguard staffing stops Oct. 6.
–– Lizzy Rager
The Carpinteria-Summerland Fire Protection District’s Water Rescue Team, California State lifeguards and
city of Carpinteria’s lifeguards practice a water rescue in June 2024.
Affordable housing sector needs help, mobile home park resident tells council
Resident Bob Franco urged Carpinteria City Council members during public comment at Monday night’s meeting to draft legislation addressing market-priced housing in affordable housing sectors.
Franco spoke with the council about a recent issue at the Sandpiper Mobile Home Park. Sand Piper’s land is zoned for mobile homes and rent stabilization ordinances are in place to maintain the
sector as affordable housing. Franco, a resident and member of Carpinteria’s Mobile Home Rent Stabilization board, said when a friend at the mobile park passed away, the owners replaced the old unit with a new manufactured home that was listed for $4,000 a month on the housing website Zillow.
Franco said his friend did not have his heirs approved or they were unwilling to continue living there, so they sold it to the
park owners.
“This is entirely legal. The consequence of this is that on one hand, we are desperately trying to find affordable housing for our own residents and on the other hand, private equity firms are quietly picking away at your back,” Franco said.
He suggested the city collaborate with other cities and governors to introduce legislation that would give municipalities total authority over mobile home parks
within their city limits, and shared concerns that this will continue to happen if kept under the purview of the Department of Housing and Community Development.
“There seems to be little momentum on doing this sort of thing,” Franco said. “I hope you can join the momentum on this and help out.”
–– Lizzy Rager
Council discusses camping, tenting regulation enforcement plan
After a Supreme Court decision that overruled an exception to camping and tenting enforcement regulation that was meant to get resources for those who don’t have access to shelter, the city Carpinteria has to update its policy, city staff said during the council’s Monday, Sept. 23 meeting.
The current Carpinteria Municipal Code (CMC) states that sleeping, camping or lodging on public and private property is generally not allowed. However, an exception added in 2023 prohibited enforcement of no-camping regulations against persons that do not have access to shelter. It also provides
alternative enforcement procedures, including asking the individual to move, offering information services and offering transportations to shelters.
The 2023 amendment was added to comply with a then-recent case law, including the ruling in Johnson v. City of Grants Pass. The decision rested on a theory that enforcement in such a situation would constitute “cruel and unusual punishment” However, the decision did not provide a clear definition for what constitutes “access to shelter,” and cities struggled to interpret it. After Carpinteria had updated its code to be compliant with case law,
Johnson v. the City of Grants Pass went to the Supreme Court on appeal. The court overturned the case, ruling that generally applicable laws regulating camping on public property does not constitute “cruel and unusual punishment.”
Significantly, the ruling allows enforcement of regulations without verifying whether the individual has access to shelter beforehand.
Sydne Rennie, an associate at Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, recommended making “high-level revisions” to the city’s municipal code for longevity and to align with the case law. Carpinteria city staff are currently researching how other
localities are modifying their approaches. Councilmember Mónica Solórzano expressed concern that the “access to shelter” step would be an extra burden for the city’s Code Compliance, as getting an individual access to a shelter when services cannot be reached halts their other responsibilities.
“The real problem is the access to the shelter. The beds aren’t there,” Code Compliance Supervisor David Hernandez answered.
CAMPING
continued on page 5
KARLSSON FILE PHOTO
the
Architectural Board grants preliminary approval for cannabis processing facility on Foothill Road
The 25,000-square-foot facility needs changes to public-facing areas, board says
BY JUN STARKEY
The Santa Barbara County South Board of Architectural Review (SBAR) has granted preliminary approval to a 25,000-square-foot cannabis processing facility at 3561 Foothill Road, with the stipulation that the applicant devise a plan to beautify the public-facing side of the property.
The board voted 6-1 at its Sept. 20 meeting, with SBAR architect Valerie Froscher dissenting.
“It looks like a mess, to be frank with you,” said landscape architect Robert Richards, who represents the third district on the SBAR. “Find something that looks good to the neighbors that are concerned.”
The cannabis facility at 3561 Foothill Road, owned by Graham Farrar of G&K Farm and K&G Flowers, previously came before the SBAR in January 2020. During this meeting, the board asked Farrar to come back with mechanical equipment details and screening, and colors, material palette and lighting specifications.
Since 2020, the project has slowly moved through the routine governing bodies after facing numerous appeals, many of which came from the citizen’s group Concerned Carpinterians. The group – which has also submitted numerous complaints regarding the odor produced by Carpinteria cannabis operations – took issue with the number of cannabis operations between Via Real and Foothill Road.
Land-use consultant Jay Higgins, speaking to the board on behalf of Farrar, addressed the board’s comments from the January 2020 meeting, flipping through the color and lighting scheme for the greenhouse, which now includes a darker green color for the outside and downward-facing lights around the perimeter of the building.
“In terms of what we’re here to review, I think it’s fine as proposed,” said SBAR landscape architect Chris Gilliland.
Board member John Vrtiak suggested a darker color for the outside of the greenhouse to “dampen the effect” it has on the surrounding view. Board member Richards also suggested planting trees or greenery around the building to create a more pleasant street view.
Higgins said it would be extremely difficult to plant greenery to block the sight of the greenhouse; a large amount of water would be needed for trees that
“Find something that looks good to the neighbors that are concerned.”
– landscape architect Robert Richards
could block a building more than 20 feet high.
Richards and other board members compromised with Higgins, telling the applicant to beautify the street frontage “to the best extent possible.”
Although some public comments were made regarding the scale and potential odor from the project during the board’s Sept. 20 meeting, these concerns did not fall under the purview of the SBAR, which primarily handles aesthetic and material issues surrounding new properties and projects.
Jill Stassinos of Concerned Carpinterians spoke during public comment and reiterated several of her group’s concerns, including the size, the impact the structure would have on the public view and potential wildlife impacts.
Avofest permits approved
The Carpinteria City Council approved a special permit application on Monday for the upcoming 38th annual California Avocado Festival – also known as Avofest – set for Oct. 4–6.
The nonprofit California Avocado Festival board requested a special permit application to designate the area within the event – Linden Avenue between Carpinteria Avenue and Sixth Street – as a public park, and to authorize expenditures for temporary traffic control and street cleaning services.
The estimated cost of the temporary traffic control and street cleaning services is $30,000, which comes from the city’s Gas Tax Fund and Measure A fund.
Public Works Director John Ilasin said the event will be monitored by county police in conjunction with private security hired by Avocado Festival Inc. Officers from the Alcoholic Beverage Company will also be on site.
“This is really about raising money for
our community,” festival director Olivia Sorgman told the council. Proceeds go back to Carpinteria Education Foundation and Future Farmers of America.
This year’s festival — scheduled for Friday, Oct. 4, 1–10 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 6, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — will have 60 bands and four regular stages, plus a youth stage on Saturday and Sunday. There will also be 50 arts and crafts and commercial vendors and 15 food vendors.
Councilmember Roy Lee asked how the festival organizers will deal with unpermitted food vendors. Ilasin said the organizers will be overseeing all vendors during the festival, and the code compliance division will be monitoring vendors outside the event footprint, he continued.
The opening ceremony of the festival, where an avocado is balanced on the nose of a seal, will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4.
–– Lizzy Rager
Stassinos also said neighbors’ concerns regarding odor at Farrar’s other cannabis operations – she listed 5601 Casitas Pass Road, 3480 Via Real and 5601 Casitas Pass Road – have not been addressed.
“I’m under the impression that Graham Farrar… has agreed to put in carbon filter scrubbers in this new 25,000 square foot cannabis processing structure, and yet I’m wondering how he can be trusted, when presently there appears to be little to no odor controls in place,” Stassinos said. “Let Mr. Farrar get rid of the stench
CAMPING:
continued from page 4
from his current cannabis operations, before allowing him to operate a new cannabis processing plant.”
The board gave Higgins a chance to briefly address some of the comments made, despite them being out of SBAR’s purview.
“There (are) extensive odor controls associated with (the processing) building, more so than could be incorporated into a greenhouse, because it’s an actual air-tight building,” Higgins said. He explained that the second floor of the building holds most of the odor control technology, including controls for doors and windows.
“I’m not in support of it, but that’s way down the road,” Froscher said. “I sympathize with the residents of Carpinteria, who got pretty much ignored during the development of the cannabis business in Carpinteria.”
Carpinteria currently has no shelter beds and has to refer homeless individuals to shelter spaces in Santa Barbara County. Overnight sleeping on public property typically occurs later in the day, when it’s not possible to get a hold of shelters and determine if there are beds, city legal counsel Jena Shoaf Acos noted.
Councilmember Wade Nomura asked if an order by Governor Gavin Newsom in July applies to Carpinteria. Newsom’s order directed state agencies to “adopt humane and dignified policies” to urgently address encampments on state property, emphasizing encampments that pose a threat “to the life, health and safety of the community.” Acos clarified that Newsom also recommended local agencies take this approach. City staff will bring an updated administrative policy back to the council at a future meeting.
–– Lizzy Rager
Questions or Concerns? QuestionsorConcerns?
COURTESY GRAPHIC
The Santa Barbara County South Board of Architectural Review granted preliminary approval to the cannabis processing facility at 3561 Foothill Road.
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY ZONING ADMINISTRATOR
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
DATE OF HEARING: October 7, 2024
HEARING BEGINS: 9:00 A.M.
PLACE: SANTA BARBARA COUNTY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT PLANNING COMMISSION HEARING ROOM 123 E. ANAPAMU STREET, RM. 17 SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The Zoning Administrator provides in-person participation as well as virtual participation until further notice.
The following methods of participation are available to the public.
1. If you wish to provide public comment, the following methods are available:
· Distribution to the Zoning Administrator - Submit your comment via email prior to 12:00 p.m. on the Friday prior to the Zoning Administrator hearing. Please submit your comment to the Secretary at martinj@countyofsb.org. Your comment will be placed into the record and distributed appropriately.
· Attend the Meeting In-Person: Individuals are allowed to attend and provide comments at the Zoning Administrator meeting in-person.
· Attend the Meeting by Zoom Webinar - Individuals wishing to provide public comment during the Zoning Administrator meeting can do so via Zoom webinar by clicking the below link to register in advance. Register in advance for this meeting: After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing important information about joining the webinar.
When: October 7, 2024 09:00 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada) Topic: Zoning Administrator 10/7/2024 https://countyofsb.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HnYaAmk0SkqMq0nzmkmqNg OR PARTICIPATE VIA TELEPHONE:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 213 338 8477 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 720 928 9299 or +1 971 247 1195 or +1
253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 602 753 0140 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 470 250 9358 or +1 646 518 9805 or +1 651 372 8299 or +1 786 635 1003 or +1 929 205 6099 or +1 267 831 0333 or +1 301 715 8592 or 877 853 5257 (Toll Free) or 888 475 4499 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0276 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0282 (Toll Free)
Webinar ID: 894 6741 9930
The Zoning Administrator will accept written comments and interested persons may appear to support or oppose the proposal. If written comments are filed, three (3) copies should be provided. Comments should be filed with or mailed to Planning and Development, Attn: Hearing Support, 123 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Continuances will not be granted unless there are exceptional circumstances. This matter may be dropped from the agenda unless the applicant is present and ready to proceed on the date set herein.
Please be advised that the Zoning Administrator’s decisions made under the authority of Chapter 35 & 21 of the Santa Barbara County Code may be appealed to the County Planning Commission by the applicant or any aggrieved person adversely affected by such decision. An appeal, which shall be in writing, and accompanying fee shall be filed with the Planning and Development Department Zoning and Permit Information Counter located at either 123 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, CA, or 624 West Foster Road, Suite C, Santa Maria, CA, within the 10 calendar days following the date of the action by the Zoning Administrator. There is a $669.06 fee for both non-applicants and owner/applicant appeals to the Planning Commission. A fee will not be charged if the development which is the subject of the appeal is defined as development that may be appealed to the California Coastal Commission in compliance with Public Resources Code Section 30603(a).
If you challenge the project 23CDH-00034, in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence to the Zoning Administrator prior to the public hearing.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need a disability-related modification or accommodation or are exempt from applicable Health Officer Orders, including auxiliary aids or services such as sound enhancement equipment or an American Sign Language interpreter, to participate in this hearing, please contact Hearing Support Staff at 805-568-2000. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the hearing will enable the Hearing Support Staff to make reasonable arrangements. If you have any questions or if you are participating in the hearing telephonically or electronically and need a disability-related modification or accommodation or have any issues attempting to access the hearing telephonically or electronically, please contact Hearing Support Staff at 805568-2000.
23CDH-00009 Elk Rincon LLC Addition Carpinteria
Exempt from CEQA 15301, Henry Wakamiya, Planner (805) 568-3017
Hearing on the request of Lauren Anderson, agent for property owner Elk Rincon LLC, to consider:
· Case No. 23CDH-00009 for a Coastal Development Permit, in compliance with Section 35-169 of the Article II Coastal Zoning Ordinance, to allow alterations to the existing residential development on property zoned Residential (7-R-1); and,
· Determine the project is exempt pursuant to Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) of the State Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act, as outlined in the Notice of Exemption included as Attachment C.
The application involves AP No. 001-230-030, located at 168 Rincon Point Road, in the Carpinteria area, First Supervisorial District.
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY ZONING ADMINISTRATOR
Obituaries
Ted Baum
01/07/1929 – 09/09/2024
Dr. Frederic “Ted” Wells Baum of Carpinteria, California passed away on Sept. 9, 2024, at age 95. He died peacefully in his own home, surrounded by his family.
Ted was a loving and supportive father to five children and four grandchildren, an enthusiastic golfer, an aggressive doubles tennis player, a dedicated choir singer, and a general tinkerer/ builder/fixer of things. As a voracious reader, writer and literary raconteur, he was widely heralded as “The James Thurber” of his many writing groups. He loved to camp and took dozens of road trips throughout the western United States, always searching for the perfect hike, waterfall or vista.
Ted’s story began on a chilly winter night on Jan. 7, 1929. He grew up in Salem, Oregon with his devoted parents, William Wells Baum and Daphne Grace Conover, and two younger sisters, Frances and Marion. He left Salem in his early teens to attend Culver Military Academy in Indiana, graduating with the class of 1946. Spending four years away from home at this strictly regimented boarding school instilled a sense of confidence and self-sufficiency that never left him.
Ted studied psychology at Stanford University, then obtained a medical degree from the University of Oregon in 1955, specializing in pediatrics. He served in the U.S. Army Medical Corps as a General Medical Officer, with the rank of Captain. He was stationed in Korea for two years of active duty.
Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, Ted practiced medicine in Sacramento before realizing his true calling as a public health servant. He enrolled at UC Berkeley, where he obtained a master’s degree in public health in 1965. He was quickly snatched up by the state of Arizona, which installed him as director of Maternal and Child Health at Arizona State Children’s Hospital in Tempe. Ted moved his family to Phoenix, where he and his first wife, Rita Ragozzino Baum, built a home in the Arcadia district, a lush suburban enclave carved out of the arid desert near Camelback Mountain.
Throughout his career, Ted worked diligently to improve the health of pregnant women and their babies. When he began his tenure, Arizona was ranked 35th out of 50 states for infant mortality, largely due to poor or nonexistent healthcare services on Arizona’s Native American Indian reservations. Thanks to Ted’s foresight and ingenuity – embodied in extensive fundraising, visionary policy decisions and a statewide medivac program that identified and treated women with highrisk pregnancies in the state’s rural areas – Arizona’s infant mortality rates steadily improved. When Ted retired from public service 23 years later, Arizona was ranked
2nd out of the 50 states. Ted was also a consultant for the Arizona Association of Midwives and volunteered significant time working with mothers and babies from the Navajo Nation.
Upon retirement, Ted lived in Durango, Colorado with his second wife, Darleen Benson Baum, before moving to Carpinteria in 1991. While both of his marriages ultimately ended in divorce, he maintained a warm, caring rapport with both wives and remained devoted to the five children that resulted from those unions.
As a single man in his 60s, 70s and 80s, Ted’s quirky creativity was unleashed. He was a prolific writer of poetry, memoirs, and fantastical tales. His Carpinteria home became a monument to his widespread interests, with medical diplomas, professional awards and cherished Tribal artifacts interspersed with dozens of family photos, golf trophies, tennis trophies, drawings from his grandchildren, and a treasure trove of arcana collected from thrift stores and garage sales. Ted’s backyard décor featured pink flamingos in the flowerbeds and artwork salvaged from his many thrifting forays, along with a ramshackle, two-level deck that he constructed to take in the view of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Collectively, this unique outdoor domain was referred to as The Hamptons, a nod to his Great Gatsby persona and the Tall Tales that sprang from it, including a cast-off highheeled shoe on the edge of the garden, purportedly left behind by Daisy herself. Ted was a bonafide DIY-er who didn’t see the point of paying someone to fix something that he could figure out himself. He enjoyed the challenges of problem-solving and the satisfaction of finding solutions. Frugal to the point of earning the nickname The Mizer (aka “The Mize”), Ted was known for doing things his way, and he developed his own unique aesthetic: There were no rules of fashion he would not break or standards of home decorating he would not disregard.
For many years, Ted attended Faith Lutheran Church in Carpinteria, where he sang in the choir and served as an Elder. His Christian faith was important to him throughout his life, and a comfort to him in the months and weeks leading up to his death.
Ted’s transition to the other side was gentle and peaceful. He spent his final days sharing his writing, serving up witty remarks, listening to classical music, singing along to his favorite Neil Diamond songs, cuddling with his cat, Victoria, and sharing his warmth with everybody within reach. He is lovingly remembered by his two wives – Rita Ragozzino Baum and Darleen Benson – and survived by his five children, Edward Baum, David Baum (Susie), Daphne Baum Small (Tim), Kimberly Baum and Kathryn Starr-Baum (Sam), and four grandchildren, Matthew Baum, Emily Baum, Julianna Small Nicolai (Chase) and Johnathan Small.
Ted’s family and friends will gather on Friday, October 4 at 1:30 p.m. at the Santa Barbara Cemetery Chapel (901 Channel Dr. Santa Barbara, California), followed by a private family burial. A celebratory reception will be held immediately following the service; location details to be announced. Please RSVP to dwbaum@ mac.com if you would like to attend the service and reception.
Tomás A. Castelo
10/05/1942 – 09/15/2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tomás Abraham Castelo, 81, who left this world peacefully at his home on Sept. 15, 2024, in Santa Barbara, California.
Born on Oct. 5, 1942, to Tomás E. Castelo and Teresa Castelo (Osuna), Tomás was a proud son of Santa Barbara, raised in the close-knit community of Carpinteria. He graduated from Carpinteria High School in 1960, laying the foundation for a life dedicated to service and justice. Along with earning his undergraduate degree from California State University, Long Beach, and his law degree from UCLA School of Law, he served six honorable years in the United States Marine Corps as part of the Platoon Leader Program.
Tomás was a beacon of hope for the underserved, pouring his heart into his work and community. His unwavering commitment earned him the City of Santa Barbara’s 2005 Hispanic Achievement Award, a testament to his profound impact as co-founder and executive director of La Casa de la Raza. Through his pro bono work at the Santa Barbara Legal Defense Center and his research with the Santa Barbara County Counsel’s Office, he transformed countless lives, advocating fiercely for those without a voice. He was dedicated to his work as an attorney and tax accountant, proudly owning and
Jodi Renz
01/07/1960 – 09/06/2024
Jodi Renz passed away Sept. 6, 2024, after a heart attack, at the age of 64. She was born to Wes Renz and Joyce Renz on Jan. 7, 1960, in Santa Barbara. She enjoyed riding horses. She won ribbons for barrel racing and dressage. Jodi graduated from San Marcos High School in 1978. While in high school, she played baseball for the Royals. She also played in a women’s league after high school.
Jodi was a very talented artist and brought joy to many through her art. She worked for Barry Berkus for several years, and Serigraph Resort Wear in Carpinteria until her retirement.
Jodi was preceded in death by her parents, Wes and Joyce Renz, and her brother, Rick Renz. She is survived by her husband Dennis Anderson, her sister Debbie Renz Bayer, cousin Shelley Fitzpatrick (Casey), two nieces and several cousins, and many close friends. Her fun-loving spirit will really be missed.
A sunset Celebration of Life will be held at 5 p.m. on Oct. 12 at La Conchita beach.
Obituaries
operating the Anapamu Professional Center for nearly 50 years, where he provided invaluable estate planning and tax services to his clients.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tomás was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He found joy in attending local high school football games, sharing stories of his cherished Carpinteria youth and nurturing his insatiable love for reading. His family was his pride and joy, and his laughter and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Tomás leaves behind his beloved and devoted wife of 49 years, Amalia Castelo (Alcantar), and a legacy of love that includes his brother Frank Castelo, sister Norma Davis, and his cherished children Jued (Celestina) Martinez, Linda (James) Gallegos, Michelle Castelo, Cristina Castelo Rodriguez, Tommy (Taylor Hamilton) Castelo and Renée Castelo (Mark) DePaco.
He was an adoring grandfather to 15 grandchildren: Renée, Anna, Anthony, Tina-Marie, Leah, Joseph, Diego, Delia, Juliana, Luna, Tommy, Cameron, James, Luke and Taylor; a proud great-grandfather to 11; and a great-great-grandfather to one. He is reunited in spirit with his brother Henry Castelo, sister Armida Champagne and son-in-law José Rodriguez.
A Rosary service will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Carpinteria on Thursday, October 3, at 7:30 p.m., followed by a Funeral Mass on Saturday, October 5, at 11 a.m., and a private reception to celebrate a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to VNA Home Hospice Care (vna.health “Appreciation Garden”) in his honor.
Tomás will forever be remembered for his fierce spirit, compassionate heart, and the countless lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.
Arrangements entrusted to Pueblo del Rey Funeral Services.
09/22/1956 – 08/22/2024
A celebration of David’s life will be held on Saturday, September 28 at noon at the Carpinteria Valley Museum of History, 956 Maple Ave. Lunch will be available.
Coastal View News welcomes your letters
Letters must include your name, address and phone number. Letters are subject to editing. Letters over 300 words will be edited in length. Submit online at coastalview.com
Javier Marcos Jimenez 03/14/1970 – 07/29/2024
Mr. Javier Marcos Jimenez, age 54, of Jefferson, Georgia, passed away on Monday, July 29, 2024.
Mr. Jimenez was born in Santa Barbara, California, and raised in Carpinteria, California. He is the son of Mrs. Juanita Gutierrez Jimenez and the late Ernest Jimenez. Mr. Jimenez had a degree in ornamental horticulture from California Polytechnic State University and was a certified arborist.
Family was everything to Javier, and he took immense pride in his son, Alexander, who he never missed an opportunity to boast about. His love for his wife, Lisa, was enduring and wholehearted, shining through in everything he did.
Javier’s life was a tapestry of love, laughter and adventure. He was passionate about many things, including fishing, golfing and skateboarding. He enjoyed playing the harmonica and loved to sing karaoke. The outdoors was his sanctuary, and he enjoyed exploring nature’s beauty. His eclectic taste in music spanned genres, reflecting his vibrant and adventurous spirit. Javier also loved spreading his knowledge of trees, and he was dedicated to teaching others how to safely and properly trim, prune or remove dangerous trees.
Javier had an extraordinary gift for making connections. No one was ever a stranger to him; he loved engaging with
people and took immense joy in doing good deeds and putting smiles on the faces of strangers. Reminiscing about his days playing football for the Carpinteria Warriors and lacrosse for Cal Poly San Luis Obispo was his favorite pastime, and he was a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers.
He is survived by his wife and son, Lisa Jimenez and Alexander Jimenez of Jefferson, Georgia; his mother, Juanita Jimenez; his brother, Henry Jimenez; his sister, Leticia Jimenez; his brother-in-law, Hector Zamora; his nephew, Hector Jr. Zamora; his nephew, Isaac Zamora; his niece, Yvette Zamora; his niece, Alyssa Zamora; his great-niece Camilla Victoria Zamora of Carpinteria, California; his sister, Nellie Hernandez; his nephew, Jose Hernandez, his niece, AnnaLiza Hernandez of Renton, Washington; his niece, Ysabelle Blodgett; his nephew-in-law, Nate Blodgett; his great-nephew, Briggs Blodgett of Madison, Wisconsin; his sister, Jennifer Jimenez; his nephew, Terrell Richardson; his niece, Jauslyn Richardson of Carpinteria, California; his brother, Ernie Jimenez Jr.; his sister-in-law, Jenny Jimenez; his nephew, Andrue Jimenez; his niece, Emily Hieber; his niece, Bethany Daniel; his great-nephew, Jacob Camarena of Yuma, Arizona; his sister, Ramona Jimenez; his nephew, Rafael Montes Jr; his nephew, Valentin Villanueva of Carpinteria, California; his sister-in-law, Michele Cantrell of Braselton, Georgia; his nephew, Michael McCann; his greatniece, Lily McCann of Statham, Georgia; his nephew Sean Vale; his niece-in-law Samantha Vale of Tacoma, Washington; and his nephew Kyle Reber of Oxnard, California. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 10 a.m. at First Beach on Linden Avenue in Carpinteria, California. Come share a story or memorable moment of this amazing man. We all love so much. Your smile will never be forgotten, and your hugs will be missed. Till we meet again.
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
NOTICE OF COMPLETE APPLICATION FOR MODIFICATION
Notice is hereby given that an application for the project described below has been submitted to the Santa Barbara County Planning and Development Department. This project requires the approval of a Modification by the Zoning Administrator.
To receive additional information regarding this project, and/or to view the application and plans, please contact Kevin De Los Santos at 123 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, 93101, by email at santosk@countyofsb.org, or by phone at (805) 884‐8051.
PROPOSAL: BROWN TRUST PARKING MODIFICATION
PROJECT ADDRESS: 2380 LILLIE AVE., SUMMERLAND, CA 93067 1ST SUPERVISORIAL DISTRICT PERMIT NUMBER: 23MOD‐00017; APPLICATION FILED: 10/18/2023
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The project is a request for a Parking Modification to waive the on‐site parking requirement for a change of use project being processed under a separate Coastal Development Permit (Case No. 22CDP‐00000‐00073). The change of use will allow conversion of two existing residential units to commercial space. The project site is located in the C‐1 Zone District and a total of 4 commercial parking spaces would normally be required for the proposed two commercial use structures. The project site is constrained and no commercial parking spaces exist on‐site. Four commercial parking (including ADA) spaces will be accommodated within the Right‐of‐Way (ROW) by street frontage improvements.
REVIEW AUTHORITY: This project is under the jurisdiction of the Zoning Administrator who will either approve, approve with conditions, or deny the project. An additional notice of a public hearing or pending action by the Zoning Administrator regarding this project will be mailed a minimum of 10 days prior to the public hearing or pending action.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Information about this project review process may also be viewed at: https://ca‐santabarbaracounty.civicplus.pro/1499/Planning‐Permit‐Process‐Flow‐Chart
David Griggs
Mental health: myths vs. truths
MY WELLNESS NOW
VICKIE GONZALEZ
Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being. It encompasses our emotional, psychological and social states. It influences how we cope with stress, relate to others and make decisions.
Mental health is more than just the absence of mental illness; it’s about thriving emotionally, psychologically and socially in our daily lives. Good mental health contributes significantly to our overall quality of life. Unfortunately – although it is vital for every stage of life – mental health continues to be misunderstood and stigmatized.
In this article, I will share a few common misconceptions around mental health and discuss more truthful information.
An individual’s mental health can fluctuate over time due to life events, physical health, social support and genetics. It’s essential to recognize that mental health is a spectrum, and everyone experiences it differently.
Some consistent factors for mental health include emotional resilience, psychological well-being and social functioning.
In the same way a resilient tree bends under a strong wind but does not break, a resilient individual is able to manage stress and life’s challenges with strength and continue to grow. As mentioned in my March and April 2024 columns, building resilience can be a learned skill developed through practices like mindfulness, problem-solving and seeking social support.
Psychological well-being is a sense of
purpose, satisfaction and the capacity to form and maintain fulfilling relationships.
Social functioning is how well we interact with others, communicate what we need and connect to our communities. Positive social functioning helps foster a sense of belonging and support.
Common myths and truths
Myth: Mental health problems are rare.
Truth: Mental health issues are common and can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or background. According to the World Health Organization, around one in four people worldwide will experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives. The Centers for Disease Control found that more than one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness. According to Santa Barbara County’s 2020 Mental Health Report, almost 20% of residents experience mental health issues annually, with higher rates seen among teens and older adults.
Myth: Mental health problems are a sign of weakness.
Truth: Mental health challenges arise from a multifaceted interplay of biological, environmental and psychological factors – not from personal weakness or character flaws. Seeking help is a sign of strength and resilience.
Myth: You can always “snap out of” a mental health problem if you try hard enough.
Truth: Mental health conditions are not about willpower or effort. They are often linked to complex issues, including genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental influences.
Myth: Only traumatic events trigger mental health problems.
Truth: While trauma can contribute to mental health issues, genetics, brain chemistry and life circumstances all play significant roles. Mental health conditions can develop without a specific triggering event.
Myth: Mental health issues in adults are always evident through visible symptoms.
Mental health challenges arise from a multifaceted interplay of biological, environmental and psychological factors – not from personal weakness or character flaws. Seeking help is a sign of strength and resilience.
Truth: Many mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, may not always present with obvious symptoms and can be hidden.
Myth: Therapy is only for people with severe mental health conditions.
Truth: Therapy can benefit anyone experiencing stress or relationship issues, or those who want to improve their emotional well-being, regardless of the severity of their condition.
Age-related misconceptions
Myth: Children don’t experience mental health issues; they grow out of it. Mental health problems in children are just a phase.
Truth: Mental health disorders can begin in childhood. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one in six children aged two to eight years old has a diagnosed mental, behavioral or developmental disorder, and one in six children aged six to 17 in the United States has a mental health disorder. The American Academy of Pediatrics highlights that early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and that untreated mental health issues in children can affect future academic and social outcomes.
Myth: Teen mental health issues are just about mood swings. Adolescents are just being dramatic when they express mental health concerns.
Truth: Teen mental health issues – like depression and anxiety – can be severe. Research from the National Alliance on Mental Illness shows that half of all mental health conditions begin by age 14. Adolescents face unique stressors, including identity formation and social
pressures. Their concerns are real and deserving of attention and empathy.
Myth: Mental health issues are a normal part of aging.
Truth: While aging can bring about changes in mental health, it is not inevitable to experience mental health problems. Many older adults maintain good mental health into their later years. The American Psychological Association states that mental health problems in older adults are treatable and not a normal consequence of aging.
Understanding mental health requires recognizing the myths and truths. It is my hope that by promoting accurate information and compassion, our community can foster a more supportive environment where mental health is prioritized. Let’s continue to encourage open conversations about mental health, support those who seek help (including ourselves), and advocate for policies that promote mental well-being.
“We need to make mental health as important as physical health.” – Anonymous
Vickie Gonzalez has been licensed for almost 20 years as an LMFT and currently provides counseling, coaching and consulting services. Her private practice is currently online only. She specializes in private practice, including grief loss, addiction/codependency and anxiety disorders. She works with people around themes of identity and purpose as well, primarily with individuals and couples. Coaching services focus on collaborating with clients on setting and reaching their wellness goals, whether those goals are career, relational, financial or personal in nature. On a personal note, she has lived in Carpinteria all her life and became a therapist to give back to the community.
Computer course grads receive Chromebooks
Forty students wrapped up a free, six-week computer basics course at the Carpinteria Community Library this week, librarian Jody Thomas told CVN. Partners in Education taught two cohorts in Carpinteria — one in English and one in Spanish — and all participants received a new Chromebook. “Both classes celebrated at the final class and took home their new computers. Course topics included password protection and identifying fraud,” Thomas told CVN on Tuesday.
COURTESY PHOTO
Carpinteria teachers truly serve community
I love living in Carpinteria. My wife and I have lived here for a year and a half, and we are excited to raise our fourmonth-old son here. I work as a special education teacher at a high school in Oxnard, and am in my fifth year on the job. Having earned my master’s degree, I am proud to say that I am eligible for my school district’s highest-pay class.
When I first moved to Carpinteria, I considered applying for a teaching position here in town – that is until I checked the CUSD salary schedule… (these are readily available on every district’s website).
To earn the same pay that I currently get in my fifth year in Oxnard, I would need to work in the CUSD for over twenty-six years. (I also get health, vision, and dental benefits for myself and my family in addition to that salary.)
For another perspective: fifth-year teachers with a master’s degree in the Oxnard Union High School District (OUHSD) earn over $30,000 more per year than equally-certificated teachers in the CUSD. Money isn’t everything, but the fact is if I were to teach in Carpinteria, I would not be able to afford to live in Carpinteria.
Having grown up in Oxnard, I very much like my job there, and am not looking to jump ship anytime soon. I guess I just wanted to write this letter to raise some awareness and inform the good folks of Carpinteria; your teachers are truly serving the community! They could be making much more money if they were to teach somewhere else, so make sure to show them your support and appreciation!
Dustin Larrieu Carpinteria
Candidate questions
I disagree with the recent format that Coastal View News (Vol. 31, No. 01) used to interview Julia Mayer, City Council Candidate for District 3.
Julia is running to represent District 3. The questions should be directed at her knowledge of District 3, not general political platitudes. Questions such as: Has she walked her district? What is the composition of her district (homeowners vs. rentals)? How many families live in rental units? Is the district composed of retired families vs. middle-class families or low-income? Are there youth gangs in her district? I have not seen any flyers handed out in the neighborhood.
LETTERS
“Money isn’t everything, but the fact is if I were to teach in Carpinteria, I would not be able to afford to live in Carpinteria.”
– Dustin Larrieu
One of the needs of District 3 is the maintenance of the sidewalks and trees uprooting the sidewalks. Example: on one side of Linden Avenue is Canalino Elementary School and the Carpinteria Unified School District office. The sidewalks are immaculate, and on the other side of Linden Avenue the residential homes suffer from the trees uprooting the sidewalks damaging residential fences. Is this a double standard?
Does Julia live in District 3 and for how long? Julia will win by default. No one is running against her. So please Julia, walk the neighborhood, talk to your constituents and find out what they would like to see you do. You will be representing them and not some unelected political group.
As for the Coastal View News, please in the future question the candidates about their knowledge of their district.
John Gonzales Carpinteria
Alarcon is a wellrounded leader
I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Natalia Alarcon since childhood, and I’ve seen her positive impact on our town of Carpinteria. From the beginning, she has been an empathetic leader, always ready to listen and take action on issues that matter to my peers and me.
During her last campaign, she showed the same dedication to all constituents, ensuring everyone felt heard. Her involvement with local organizations and groups demonstrates her love for our town. Besides her current role in the city council, she is an active member of our community. Natalia truly embodies the spirit of Carpinteria.
After the tragic death of George Floyd, my friends and I began advocating for social justice in our schools. While our focus was mainly on the school board, Natalia supported us and engaged in
Coastal View News welcomes your le ers Le ers must include your name, address and phone number. Le ers are subject to editing. Le ers over 300 words will be edited in length. Submit online at coastalview.com
Providing local news and information for the Carpinteria Valley
Managing Editor Evelyn Spence
Assistant Editor Jun Starkey
Sports Editor Ryan P. Cruz
Photographer Robin Karlsson
Advertising Manager Karina Villarreal
Publishers Gary L. Dobbins, Michael VanStry
Coastal View News is locally owned and operated by RMG Ventures, LLC, 4180 Via Real Suite F, Carpinteria, CA 93013, and is published every Thursday. Coastal View News has been adjudged a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of Santa Barbara County, Case No. 210046. Coastal View News assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material.
meaningful conversations about making Carpinteria more inclusive. This advocacy started when I was at Carpinteria High School, and now, as I enter my final year at university, I remain optimistic about our community’s future because of leaders like her. She tirelessly works towards creating a welcoming environment for all.
Natalia Alarcon is a well-rounded leader who ensures everyone, regardless of age, is heard. I wholeheartedly support her reelection.
Laura Flores Carpinteria
Councilmember supports Alarcon for District 2
I’m writing today to share my enthusiastic endorsement of Carpinteria City Council District 2 incumbent, Natalia Alarcon, for her re-election campaign. As a fellow councilmember, I’ve seen firsthand the thoughtfulness and dedication Natalia brings to every issue, meeting and event. She truly understands the complexities of decision-making, and has the skills to balance costs, constituencies and diverse viewpoints.
Natalia’s professionalism shines through in everything she does, including her deep-rooted commitment to the vital issues facing her district. When I invited her to co-host our “Together We Thrive” event last year, she immediately jumped into action, rolling up her sleeves and activating her community connections.
For the past four years, Natalia has been a dynamic and passionate leader, and I have no doubt she will continue to inspire our community with her hard work and dedication to our city. She fosters collaboration and sparks creativity,
empowering those around her to get involved and make a difference. Whether it’s advocating for our local nonprofits, amplifying the need for affordable housing or helping to shape our city budget, Natalia works to ensure our voices are heard and our needs are met. As a Carpinterian, I am proud to endorse Natalia Alarcon for re-election.
Mónica Solórzano Carpinteria
A quiet symphony
There’s a street in town called Lisa Street. It is a magical place where mythical trees meet the sky; and the mountains and the birds and the neighborhood can all glow with a magical aura. As the neighbors strive to protect these trees their voices harmonize in a quiet symphony making everything thrive.
Where is Lisa Street for you? What part of Carpinteria’s natural beauty makes you thrive? Is it the mountains? The ocean? The salt marsh? Is it the sandy shores? The Bluffs? The wildlife?
All of these things are the harmony of Carpinteria — you won’t find it in the next town over; you won’t find it in the next state over; you may not even find it in the next continent over — but it exists here. If you move to Carpinteria, and Carpinteria does not enter your soul, you are not a part of Carpinteria. Whether you are a native or newcomer, if you want to change Carpinteria to fulfill your dreams, Carpinteria does not want you here.
But if you live here and if Carpinteria lives inside of you, find the place that brings you joy and fight for it. Tell our city council that you want to preserve it. Don’t let any developer come in and transform it. If you lose that harmony you will lose the essence of Carpinteria. For me it is the seals that bring joy. They are unique mythical creatures I’ve come to know.
Some of my best friends live in the Carpinteria seal rookery…We are losing the seals and just like every magical place on earth, they are the grains of sand in an hourglass, slipping through the forces of time.
Susan Mailheau Carpinteria
Increased landscape rebate amounts available to replace water thirsty lawns with native or low-water drought-tolerant plants.
Contact CVWD at conservation@cvwd.net or 805-684-2816 ext 116 before starting your project for rebate eligibility.
Carpinteria
Santa Barbara, Carpinteria officials ask public to “report, not repost” school threats
The Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD), the Santa Barbara Police Department and Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office put out a joint message to the community on Sept. 18, addressing recent social media threats against local schools.
“An extraordinarily high number of social media-based threats have been reported across the nation since the middle of last week,” the message read. “Some such threats have been made to schools in the Santa Barbara Unified School District and other districts in the county. Our local law enforcement officers are thoroughly investigating these cases to keep our schools safe.”
Carpinteria Middle School Principal Jamie Persoon and Assistant Principal James Anderson put out a message to parents on the same day, informing them that, since Sept. 1, six separate threats of violence across five school districts had been investigated. The threats were either found not-credible or were quickly deescalated.
“We understand that incidents like
these can cause anxiety and concern. Please know that we are committed to maintaining a safe environment for all students,” Persoon and Anderson wrote via ParentSquare. “As always, we are here to ensure that safety protocols are clear and communication is effective.”
The Santa Barbara County and city groups advised members of the community to “report instead of repost” to ensure threats are brought to the proper authorities and minimize the circulation of threatening posts. The SBUSD also utilizes a platform called CrisisGo, which can be used to report any concerns directly to district leaders.
“Remember, when it comes to social media threats, report, don’t repost. Share this information with law enforcement – don’t share in spreading fear. We will investigate every threat to determine if it is credible and take appropriate action to ensure the safety of our schools,” said Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown.
According to the press release, whether a threat is genuine or a hoax, consequenc-
“Remember, when it comes to social media threats, report, don’t repost. Share this information with law enforcement – don’t share in spreading fear. We will investigate every threat to determine if it is credible and take appropriate action to ensure the safety of our schools.”
–– Sheriff Bill Brown
es can include criminal charges and disciplinary actions at school, such as suspension or expulsion. Perpetrators can also have difficulties attending college or gaining employment.
Santa Barbara County school districts and local law enforcement agencies address school threats with appropriate school-based and law enforcement re-
sponses that include immediate investigation, as well as counseling and mental health services, according to the release.
“We are actively investigating each post and contacting each person who posted to determine the credibility of the threat,” said Santa Barbara Police Department Chief Kelly Gordon.
––Jun Starkey
School violence threats not credible, CUSD communicates through ParentSquare
SUPERINTENDENT’S DESK
DIANA RIGBY
SUPERINTENDENT
CUSD
Editor’s Note: A copy of the Superintendent’s Report is run in print as a service for parents, students and community members who cannot attend Carpinteria Unified School District’s Board of Trustees meetings. This report was read aloud during the school board’s Sept. 24 meeting.
It has been reported that since the Sept. 4 deadly school shooting in Georgia, schools across the nation and in Santa Barbara County are experiencing a significant increase in threats of school violence through social media.
In the recent Santa Barbara County school-related incidents, including Carpinteria Middle School, law enforcement determined that these threats were not credible. Accurate and timely communication for staff, students and parents is critical, and our schools use Parent Square to notify the school community of all incidents.
Our schools follow the Standard Response Protocols in all emergency situations, and these safety protocols are practiced throughout the year. We all need to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff.
Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) approved
The Santa Barbara County Education Office (SBCEO) determined that the 202425 Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) met the following requirements: adheres to the template adopted by the state board of education; includes expenditures sufficient to implement the specific actions and services in the LCAP; adheres to the expenditure requirements for funds
apportioned on the basis of the number and concentration of unduplicated students pursuant to California Education Code sections 42238.02 and 42238.03; and includes the required calculations to determine whether there is a carryover obligation.
Appreciation
I would like to recognize the elementary grade level chairs and secondary department chairs who provide teacher leadership at their school sites and assist district leaders in schoolwide improvement efforts.
National Hispanic Heritage Month
National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated nationwide, Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. This annual observance is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements, histories, traditions, diversity and vibrant culture of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Our schools are celebrating with classroom activities, assemblies and performances by Cascadas de Flores.
Professional Development
Special education staff members are participating in the Inclusion Network provided by SBCEO and Santa Barbara County Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) to discuss strategies for improving the learning environment for all students.
CHS Ethnic Studies
Ninth grade Carpinteria High School (CHS) English teachers attended the Santa Barbara County Workshop to discuss the development of the required ethnic studies course for fall 2026.
Measure U
The Canalino Learning Center project continued with the completion and inspection of all underground utilities, catch basins and storm drains. Site concrete work has started with surveying and layout. Low voltage wiring is underway throughout the building and the remaining waterproofi ng is being completed at the foundation’s vent walls. Off-site fabrication of the library’s fixed seating continues, and casework fabrication is underway. The Aliso Kindergarten
Classroom Building Project remains in the construction documents phase of services, and is making progress on the local permitting requirements.
Diana Rigby is the superintendent of Carpinteria Unified School District. For more information about CUSD, log on to cusd.net, or contact Diana at drigby@cusd.net or (805) 684-4511x222.
Traveling Pants owners Susan and Steve Solano are saying goodbye after eight years of running the 929 Linden Ave. Suite E consignment store. The new owners, Gabriela and Noel Morales, will officially take over Oct. 1.
“We’ve gotten to know a lot of people really well over the years,” Susan said. The four met with Coastal View News on Monday to discuss the sale. “The hard part is gonna be saying goodbye to some of our customers and clients that we’ve built relationships with.”
Running the Traveling Pants – a consignment store that carries gently-used clothing, shoes, accessories, toys and books for infants, children, teens and young adults, and also offers complimentary gift-wrapping – was Susan’s semi-retirement plan. She was the store’s manager before she and her husband bought it from founder Kim Garcia in 2016.
“We only buy things that are in really excellent condition,” Susan said. “We have a (larger) selection than you would find if you went to a department store. There’s many seasons represented (...) people need things, and they can’t afford everything that they need. This way, they can bring us their gently used things and get store credit to get things they really need.”
She isn’t completely letting go quite yet. She’ll still be in Carpinteria working two days a week at the store: “I can’t seem to really retire.”
Selling the store – and leaving Carpinteria – is hard. Steve and Susan lived in Carpinteria for 38 years and raised their children here, and recently moved to Goleta, where they are taking care of Susan’s mother. With their now (semi) retirement, Susan plans to pursue painting, while Steve is looking forward to bicycling.
But the store is in good hands. Susan said she’s been talking about selling the store to Gabriela for a few years now.
“It just seemed like the right time… ever since I bought the store, (Gabriela) kinda let me know that she might be the next owner,” Susan joked.
Noel first moved to Carpinteria 18 years ago, and after some time living up the coast in Santa Barbara, Gabriela and Noel returned to Carpinteria after they got married. Beyond their newly minted titles as the Traveling Pants owners, Gabriela works as an academic counselor for
“I just really want to continue what (Susan’s) been doing. There’s this great thing about recycling and community… (the store) is here. You don’t have to drive to Ventura, you don’t have to drive to Santa Barbara.”
–– Gabriela Morales
Santa Barbara City College, and Noel in construction. They also have two daughters, ages nine and five.
Gabriela told CVN on Monday that she’s happy to take over the store.
“I just really want to continue what (Susan’s) been doing,” she said. “There’s this great thing about recycling and community… (the store) is here. You don’t have to drive to Ventura, you don’t have to drive to Santa Barbara.”
“I love business,” she added, explaining that she grew up watching her grand-
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mother sell candies and soda. “I love to work with people. I’m a people person.”
“That’s what makes this little business work – you have to be a people person,” Steve emphasized. “You never know the next person that’s gonna walk in and how you’re going to interact with them. (Gabriela) is good with that.”
Gabriela and Noel don’t plan to make any immediate changes to the store, but
they invite community members to stop by and meet them in their capacities as the new owners. They will also carry over all existing store balances.
This new venture is a collaborative effort between the two, Gabriela emphasized: “Behind me is him, and that’s why I can do it.”
Gabriela and Susan are also planning an open house sale, set for Oct. 12, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
“Thank you to the community for their support and their business, and for all of their friendships,” Susan added. “(The community should) support Gabby and Noel. Everyone is gonna love them.”
The store is located at the backside of 929 Linden Ave., Suite E, with the entrance facing the city of Carpinteria’s Parking Lot #1. The store’s regular hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. See more online at carpinteriatravelingpants.com.
Registration open for second annual Toes in the Cove
Registration is now open for Surf Happens’ Toes in the Cove Rincon Longboard Classic; it will close Oct. 23. The waiting period for the second annual longboard contest is Nov. 2–16.
Last year, participants as young as 10 years old and as old as 78 joined the contest, judged on their footwork, style, wave selection and positioning. Register or learn more online at toesinthecove. com.
Steve and Susan Solano, at left, are selling the Traveling Pants consignment store after eight years as owners. Gabriela and Noel Morales, at right, will be the new owners effective Oct. 1.
The guardian of The Sacred Space
Nearly 18 months in, Amy Cooper reflects on takeover, curating community events
BY EVELYN SPENCE
“It’s always been my favorite place,” Amy Cooper, the owner of Summerland’s outdoor-indoor The Sacred Space, told CVN last week, sitting in one of 2594 Lillie Ave.’s outdoor nooks. The night before, The Sacred Space hosted a communal table dinner next to one of the property’s babbling ponds. The dinner’s leader posed a question to attendees: What does sacred mean to you?
“It was really interesting to hear people’s answers,” Cooper said. “Sacred can mean looking in your dog’s face. It can be swimming in the ocean. It can be creating an altar in your bedroom… It can be some special place where you put special things. It does not have to be a deity or any certain religion. It can be honoring what matters to you.”
Cooper took over the Summerland business in April 2023, but she was far from a stranger to the space — before buying, she was a dedicated customer for 16 years.
The Sacred Space was founded by Jack and Rose Herschorn in the early 2000s, and the Herschorns, seeking retirement in 2022, put the business up for sale. They received many offers, Cooper said, but elected to sell it to Cooper, knowing she would preserve their vision.
“I walked in December of 2022, and Jack said, ‘We’re selling it.’ And I said, ‘Why didn’t you call me?’” Cooper said, laughing. She partnered with a local entrepreneur, and officially took over in April of 2023.
“We both wanted to preserve it for
SPENCE
Since Amy Cooper took over, she’s prioritized community events; last week, The Sacred Space hosted a communal table dinner next to one of the property’s ponds.
the community as a sanctuary, knowing it’s so important to so many people,” she said.
She’s no stranger to the retail business — she ran an Earth-focused, handmade store, Plum Goods, in Santa Barbara for 10 years, among other pursuits — and she’s put that energy back into The Sacred Space, bolstering the business’ community events and reorganizing some of the merchandise. (The Herschorns often brought items in from Bali, while Cooper prioritizes sourcing local, handmade goods.)
To Cooper, authenticity and sacredness are key, with those concepts centered in spaces around the property where visitors can find a sense of “peace, sanctuary, sacredness.”
“To me, what’s sacred is authenticity, integrity, kindness, connection, joy — all of the things that I try and work into my personal life and my professional life,” she said.
“The biggest thing that lights me up i s to create a place where people are excited to be… (The Sacred Space) isn’t just a store. It isn’t just a garden. It’s much, much bigger. I feel really like I’m the guardian of this place. It’s not about me. I’m here to shepherd it and offer it to people.”
The Sacred Space is multifaceted with its community, retail and downtime focuses, Cooper said. Some of the space’s workshops focus on floral or writing, while other community events center on medication, breathwork and sound baths. In December, Cooper plans to bring in a grief-focused workshop.
“It’s really fun to open it back up to the community in that way… it’s always free for people to come and have a moment of peace,” Cooper said, gesturing to the free hot tea available for visitors. “People find a lot of solace here.”
In the roughly 17 months since she’s taken over, she’s found that she can’t please everyone — “a lot of people love it the way it is now, there’s people who miss the way it was,” she said — but Cooper has focused on preserving it as a communal space.
The building itself was built in the 1880s by a spiritualist community as a homestead, Cooper said. In the front, an original fireplace still stands, with crystals built into the stone walls. “The very bones of the building are sacred and spiritual, and the land of course that we’re walking on has been sacred for a billion years to those who walked before us,” she said.
“The bigger history of this entire property and the building and the energy is not just The Sacred Space that was established 19 years ago — it goes much, much farther back than that.”
Cooper is also heavily involved with Carpinteria’s 700 Linden Project, also known as Linden Square. The 30,000 square foot complex — with The Shop-
keepers, Channel Islands Surfboards, Olada Yoga & Pilates, Bettina, Third Window Brewing Co., Corazōn Cocina, Dart Coffee Co., Lantern Tree Books and Mācher as tenants — is scheduled to open this fall.
With Linden Square’s design, Cooper said she and the developers focused on paying homage to Carpinteria culture and history.
“Because I owned Plum Goods and really knew everybody, (the developers) said, ‘Would you curate the tenants?’ I just started calling the people I thought would be a great fit, and it evolved,” she said. “Instead of just using a broker, we’re bringing people to the table, talking about the concepts they might have for that space, and I’m also talking to them as a fellow business owner.”
The Sacred Space is located at 2594 Lillie Ave. It is open Thursday through Tuesday, 11 a.m. — 5 p.m. More information about the store can be found online at thesacredspace.com or on Instagram @ thesacredspaceus.
COURTESY PHOTO
Amy Cooper took over Summerland’s The Sacred Space in April 2023.
SPENCE
The Sacred Space at 2594 Lillie Ave. is both a retail and event space.
‘Tis (always) the season on Santa Claus Lane A year-round Christmas
BOSSES BY BOSTROM
INGRID BOSTROM
Christmas N Carpinteria owner Nicole Landon was dreaming of a career change when she decided to establish a yearround Christmas store on Santa Claus Lane – a street historically known for its Christmas-themed roadside attractions.
In the following Q&A, Landon spoke with Coastal View News about her products and plans for Christmas N Carpinteria.
CVN: Please share the backstory to opening your shop. How did you know a Christmas theme was for you?
Nicole Landon: This was actually my mom’s idea. We were chatting one day before I moved back to town and I said I wish I could think of a fun, creative storefront – something I could build while I’m still working full time, with the hope that someday it would be my retirement job. I said, “Mom, we haven’t had Christmas for a long time.” That was it. I started research on shops, retail spaces and leased the space at 3817 Santa Claus Lane back in May. We’ve been building it (on) weekends and nights and have been open weekends since Sept. 1.
What are some examples of your products for sale?
The shop has multiple themed trees: Beach/Carp, Patriotic, Sparkle and Glass, Vintage. The front window display will be whatever season we are in. Currently the tree has avocados, flip flops and a touch of fall theme. There is also a gift section that is not strictly Christmas. Local artists supply our gift section with all handmade mosaic art, wall hangings, jewelry, coloring books, cards, soaps and more!
What are your current hours and plans for expanding them?
Currently, we are open Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (ish). We may expand to Thursday – Sunday starting in November.
What’s one of your most meaningful holiday memories?
Growing up locally, Santa Claus Lane was a focal point of the community. Happy to be bringing a little Christmas back to SCL.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you?
We have a fundraiser for Carpinteria High School’s (CHS) Future Farmers of America (FFA) program. The CHS ornaments sell for $5, and we are giving $4 back per ornament sold to the FFA.
Ingrid Bostrom is a photographer, drawn to open space and stories told in each new face. Send ideas of impactful Carpinterian bosses to ingrid@ingridbostromphotography.com.
store, Christmas N Carpinteria, is now open
BOSTROM PHOTOS
Christmas N Carpinteria owner Nicole Landon was dreaming of a career change when she decided to establish a year-round Christmas store on Santa Claus Lane.
A star-studded Carpinteria fundraiser
PHOTOS BY INGRID BOSTROM
Roughly 3,000 people attended One805LIVE! at Kevin Costner’s Carpinteria Valley estate on Friday, where the who’s who of Santa Barbara County raised money for first responders and enjoyed a star-studded concert.
All performers – including P!nk and Dallas Green, Kevin Costner & Modern West, Kenny Loggins, Alan Parsons, Joe Bonamassa, Al Stewart, Richard Marx, Alyssa Bonagura, Jordan Asher Huffman, Plastic Harpoons and The Santa Barbara Symphony – donated their time, One805 representative Christopher Davis said. The fundraising totals from the auction and ticket purchases were not available as of press time.
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, also presented the Heart of the Community Award to Loren Courtney, a veteran Army helicopter pilot who now flies with the Santa Barbara County Air Support Unit; and Kenny Loggins and KLITE-FM Morning Radio Host Catherine Remak received the Heart of the Community Award for their contributions to Santa Barbara. Several other stars stopped by the stage to support the cause, including Rob Lowe, Zoe Saldana, Peter Noone, Jeff Bridges and Cameron Diaz.
The nonprofit One805 was founded following the 2017 Thomas Fire and the 2018 Montecito Debris Flow to support local first responders. One805LIVE! proceeds go toward equipment, disaster preparedness and mental health support.
and
presented the Heart of the Community Award to veteran
Kevin Costner
General admission, table and cabana tickets were available at the fundraiser.
From left, actresses Zoe Saldana
Cameron Diaz.
P!nk, center, sings with her band You + Me.
Kenny Loggins was a highlight on the stage.
Jeff Bridges shared his story of being rescued by first responders during the 2018 Montecito Debris Flow.
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex,
Loren Courtney.
Second from
Costner & Modern West opened the concert.
Kevin Costner takes the stage.
P!nk pumps up the crowd.
from the right, Alan Parsons sings and plays guitar.
CALENDAR
Thursday, Sept. 26
English Language Conversation
Group / Grupo de Conversación en Inglés Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 8:10 a.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Veterans Morning Meet Up Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 8:30–10 a.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: Chair Yoga Veterans Memorial Building meeting room, 941 Walnut Ave. 11 a.m. –noon. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Food Bank Senior Food Distribution Veterans Memorial Building courtyard, 941 Walnut Ave. 1–2 p.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: Film Club Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 2–4 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca. gov, (805) 881-1279
Carpinteria Creative Arts Eighth Street and Linden Avenue. 2:30–6 p.m. Handmade pottery, beach art, cards, jewelry and sewn articles. (805) 698-4536
U.S. Citizenship Test Preparation Classes / Clases de Preparación Para el Examen de Ciudadanía Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 6:10 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Friday, Sept. 27
AgeWell Senior Program: Pickleball Free Play Girls Inc. of Carpinteria, 5315 Foothill Road. 8–10 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Friday Fun Day Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10–11:30 a.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Live Music: Bobby, Fin & Dave Corktree Cellars, 910 Linden Ave. 5:30–8:30 p.m. corktreecellars.com, (805) 684-1400
Saturday, Sept. 28
Community Yard Sale Casitas Village Condos, streets include Bailard, Via Real, Hickey and Birch. 8 a.m.
Community Walk with City Councilmembers Roy Lee, Mónica Solórzano Meet at Tomol Interpretive Play Area, 389 Linden Ave. 9 a.m. Creek Week: Guided Tour of the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Meet at the end of Estero Drive. 9–10:30 a.m. Reservations required. Ages eight and up. RSVP to AJBrooks@UCSB.edu
Salt Marsh Nature Park Docent Tours Meet at the entrance across from the corner of Sandyland and Ash Avenue. 10 a.m. – noon. Free. (805) 886-4382
Live Music: Cyrus Clarke Island Brewing Company, 5049 Sixth St. 2–5 p.m. islandbrewingcompany.com, (805)
745-8272
Live Music: Maya B. Fury Corktree Cellars, 910 Linden Ave. 5:30–8:30 p.m. corktreecellars.com, (805) 684-1400
Art Reception: Mental Health Art Show Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, 865 Linden Ave. 2–4 p.m. deborahsmilovitzfosterphd@yahoo.com, hopenetofcarpinteria.net
Monday, Sept. 30
Preschool Story Time Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10–11 a.m. Geared toward ages two to five. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Music Mondays Sing Along Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 10:30–11:30 a.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Monday Mahjong All levels of play. 1 p.m. (805) 729-1310
AgeWell Senior Program: Holistic Movement Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 1–1:45 p.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: Mind Games Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 2–3 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Death Cafe Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 3–5 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Monday Night Football with Geezy’s Q Corktree Cellars, 910 Linden Ave. 4:30–9 p.m. corktreecellars.com, (805) 684-1400
Museum Lecture Series: “Moment of Truth: Sorting Fact from Fiction in the Misinformation Age” Carpinteria Valley Museum of History, 956 Maple Ave. 5 p.m. Free for museum members; $10 at the door for nonmembers. info@ carpinteriahistoricalmuseum.org.
Tuesday, Oct. 1
AgeWell Senior Program: Walking Club Meet at Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 9 a.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 8811279
Senior Arts & Crafts Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, 865 Linden Ave. Tuesdays, 9 a.m. – noon. Free. info@ carpinteriaartscenter.org, (805) 684-7789
Carpinteria Writers Group Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10 a.m. – noon. (202) 997-0429
AgeWell Senior Program: Mind Balance Body Exercise Class Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 11 a.m. – noon. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Chair Yoga The Gym Next Door, 4915 Carpinteria Ave., Suite A. Tuesdays, 11 a.m. – noon. $15. (805) 684-2595
Spanish Conversation Group Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 1–2 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Bridge Group Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 1–4 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 8811279
Carpinteria Songwriters Circle Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 4–5:30 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Carpinteria Improv Classes The Alcazar Theatre, 4916 Carpinteria Ave. 7–9 p.m. Tuesdays, weekly. Cost: $10 at the door. thealcazar.org, (805) 684-6380
AgeWell Senior Program: Line Dancing Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 3:30–4:30 p.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Live Music: Jared Nels Corktree Cellars, 910 Linden Ave. 6–9 p.m. corktreecellars.com, (805) 684-1400
ONGOING
Senior Nutrition Program Carpinteria Veterans Hall, 951 Walnut Ave. Monday–Friday, 12:15 p.m. No cost for seniors ages 60+. (805) 925-9554, meals@ centralcoastseniors.org
left, Nancy Garrison won a large basket of kitchen goodies at the Bunco game at the arts center. At right, Cheryl Wright was awarded for “most losses” at the Bunco game; her prize was a succulent.
Arts center hosts massive Bunco game for scholarship fund
The Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center hosted a large game of Bunco on Sunday, Sept. 22. All funds were donated to the arts center’s scholarship fund.
More than 75 attended. Participants were awarded for most losses, most wins, most buncos and for “keeping the competitive spirit alive,” according to a press release from Development Director Jodi Wilson.
“Last year alone, the Carpinteria Arts Center awarded over $10,000 in scholarships for workshop, after-school, and camp attendees, as well as four scholarships to high school seniors entering college,” Wilson wrote in the press release.
The event was organized by the arts center’s organizing committee, Kathy Dubock, Kathy Ornelas, Leslie Ruffalo, and Lourdes Trigueros, as well as volunteers Janey Cohen, Jaclyn Fabre and Mary Layman.
Those interested in volunteering, signing up for events and workshops, or donating to support the arts center can visit carpinteriaartscenter.org for more information.
HAL PRICE PHOTOS
At
CVN Alcazar Ensemble to put on Hitchcock thriller
ARTCETRA
COMPILED BY JUN STARKEY AND EVELYN SPENCE COURTESY PHOTOS
Arts center announces new, returning classes for fall semester
The Lynda Fairly Arts Center’s fall semester will begin soon. Twenty-six classes will be offered, including the return of after-school classes and art for middle and homeschooled students, and Ukulele classes for adults.
“We have many new and returning workshops and tours this semester that we are looking forward to sharing with the community, and our registrations are proof that people are excited about our programs,” said Program Coordinator Lana Ziegler in a press release.
Many of the classes offered this semester are new, Ziegler said, including piano for adults, the natural dye workshop series, painting dogs and cats in watercolor, and Kokedama: moss ball planters. Some returning favorites will include the Beach Town Hootenanny Sing Along, beginning watercolor, Sip ‘n’ Dip painting, and The Getty Villa tour.
Financial aid is available for all ages. Learn more by calling (805) 684-7789, online at carpinteriaartscenter.org or by visitng the arts center at 865 Linden Ave.
“A Garland of Groovy Gifted Women” opens at Palm Loft Gallery
The Palm Loft Gallery, 410 Palm Ave., will host a reception for “A Garland of Groovy Gifted Women,” an exhibition celebrating local women artists, on Sept. 28, 4–6 p.m.
The exhibit features a wide collection of artworks personally selected by the artists themselves. Participating artists include Meredith Brooks Abbott, Whitney Brooks Abbott, Rebecca August, Laurel Mines, Patricia Clarke, Baret Boisson, Chris Chapman, Karen Fedderson, Kerri Hedden, Jen Harrington, Emma Gonzalez, Laura Hemenway, Nina Warner, Sharon Schock, Linda Mutti, Ann Sanders and Marcia Burtt.
The gallery is donating 25% of all sales to Citizens for the Carpinteria Bluffs, “supporting their efforts to preserve and protect our natural treasures,” according to the press release from the gallery.
The exhibition will be open at the Palm Loft Gallery from Sept. 28 until Nov. 17.
HopeNet, arts center to host mental health art show reception
The Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center will host a reception for the Mental Health Art Show, in collaboration with HealthNet of Carpinteria, on Sept. 29, 2–4 p.m.
Cash prizes will be awarded at the reception to the exhibit’s artists including $50 for third place, $75 for second place and $100 for first place.
The exhibit – with art from artists between the ages of three and 80 – differing perspectives of different mental health expressions, including depression, anxiety, stress, happiness, sadness, worries, longings, sentiments, nostalgia, surrendering, tranquility, love, overwhelm and family.
“The art represents the inner world and psyche of people in the community who shared their deepest themes of being human. The artist’s work promotes healing, relatability, expression and opportunities to establish a dialogue to address mental health more openly in our world,” Deborah Smilovitz Foster, a board member with HopeNet, said in a press release.
“The artists expressed the world inside their minds, when sometimes they are unable to gather the words to speak. Their work is here to enlighten, transform and find solutions to the mental health dilemma.”
Learn more online at hopenetofcarpinteria.org.
The Alcazar Ensemble will put on the three-act thriller “Vintage Hitchcock: A Live Radio Play,” for two weekends, from Oct. 13–15, to Oct. 18–20.
“Vintage Hitchcock: A Live Radio Play” is a radio show meant to transport the audience back in time with vintage commercials and live sound effects. The production features three classic Hitchcock dramas: “The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog” (1927), “Sabotage” (1936), and “The 39 Steps” (1935).
The Alcazar Ensemble will be under the direction of Åsa Olsson, Lynne Herrell and Leslie Vitanza AnneRenee, with eight performers creating lifelike sound effects and transitioning into characters. The show will feature performers Ross Brown, Rene Hooper, Claudia Kashin, Åsa Olsson, Philip Moreno, Van Riker, Lynn Robinson and Howard Rudnick.
Performances will begin on Oct. 13 and will take place Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. General admission tickets are $20, and $15 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the door before each performance or at thealcazar.org.
Islands Center opens new exhibit
A new exhibit, “Silents on the Islands,” will open at the Chrisman California Channel Islands Center on Saturday, Oct. 5.
The exhibit features photos of scenes from silent movies that were filmed on Santa Catalina and Santa Cruz islands, according to a press release. More than 250 five-to-ten-minutelong silent movies were filmed on those beaches between 1910 and 1930, with famous actors including Gloria Swanson, Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, Buster Keaton, Oliver Hardy and Stan Laurel.
“Island movies later grew into million-dollar features with casts of thousands,” exhibit curator Betsy J. Green said. Green is the author of the novel “Silents on the Islands: Silent Movies Filmed on California’s Channel Islands,” released in August 2024.
The Chrisman California Islands Center, at 4994 Carpinteria Ave., is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. See more online at ccislandscenter.org.
Keith Puccinelli’s work highlighted at UCSB museum exhibit
The works of the late Carpinteria graphic designer and fine artist Keith Puccinelli are currently on display at UC Santa Barbara in an exhibition titled “POOCH: The Art Full Life of Keith Julius Puccinelli.” The exhibit also features selections of work from the folk and contemporary art collection that Keith and his wife, Frances Garvin Puccinelli, collected together.
The exhibit opened Sept. 7 and will close Dec. 15.
“This exhibition features the work of graphic designer and fine artist Keith Puccinelli, AKA Pooch, alongside selections of work from the folk and contemporary art collection he and his wife, Frances Garvin Puccinelli, built over their 33-artful-years together,” according to a press release from the university.
“In 1998, after surviving cancer and at the urging of his wife, he began working full-time as a fine artist and became an active and recognized contributor to the Southern California art scene. This exhibition investigates how humor, tragedy, and wit animated Puccinelli’s art and design.”
The Puccinellis were iconic figures in Carpinteria. Frances was one of the founders of the California Avocado Festival, and Keith designed several of the festival’s posters. Frances also opened thriving businesses in Carpinteria, including The Coffee Grinder, SOAP, The Deli House and the Frances Puccinelli Gallery. Frances passed away in 2016, and Keith in 2017.
The exhibition was organized by Art, Design & Architecture (AD&A) Museum and guest curated by Meg Linton. It showcases over 600 pieces of art, with 250 works from the AD&A Museum’s Keith and Frances Puccinelli Collection, and a catalog of the exhibition will be available later this fall.
The works will be on display at the AD&A Museum, 552 University Road, Santa Barbara, until Dec. 15. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, from noon to 5 p.m. There will be a tour with Linton and a closing reception for the exhibition on Dec. 15, 1 p.m.
“Hot Rod Ambush, 2014” by Keith Puccinelli
The Mental Health Art Show features art from artists between the ages of three and 80.
From left, middle school artists Layla Foster and Summer Ziegler.
“Spring at the Bluffs” by Nina Warner
COURTESY JOHN WOODWARD Mermaids on the beach of Santa Cruz Island during the filming of “Peter Pan” (1924).
Vehicle / about Sandand vehicle
Halos& Pitchforks
A reader sends a halo to Ryan Moore for bringing dirt back to Carpinteria.
A reader sends a halo to the Carpinteria Library for being so kind and letting the reader and her daughter check out a few books while the library workers were preparing to close.
A reader sends a halo to everyone who supported the Playa Del Sur 4-H this year. “The members are looking forward to another successful year.”
A reader sends a halo to Heal the Ocean for “running a friendly and fun beach cleanup station at Linden as part of Coastal Cleanup Day.”
A reader sends a halo to Valerie, the new volunteer at the Friends of the Library Bookstore, for cleaning and reorganizing the self-help section.
A reader sends a halo to Matt Roberts, the retired Carpinteria Parks & Recreation director and staffer of 36 years. “The legacy of parks and open spaces in Carp is second to none thanks to him.”
A reader sends a halo to Omar, who makes the landscape at Franciscan Village look so beautiful. “And always with a smile.”
A reader sends a halo to Burlene for making the Carpinteria Lumberyard Nursery area a joy to visit. “Her outgoing personality (Southern style), friendly conversation and plant knowledge make it a pleasure to visit and shop.”
A reader sends a halo to Desiree, the new masseuse at The Gym Next Door. “She could have coasted through it, but she worked really hard to relieve my back pain. I never experienced such a great massage.”
A reader sends a halo to Allstate Doug and Rosa for handling the reader’s special situation. “Thanks so much.”
A reader sends a halo to First District Supervisor Das Williams for championing the resurfacing of 192. “It’s been a need for decades. Thank you kindly!”
A reader sends a halo to the generous person for paying for the reader’s gas when she forgot her ATM card at the gas station. “I’m sorry I chose the most expensive oil, I’d love to reimburse you, and thank you. I’m deeply moved by your generosity.”
A reader sends a halo to whoever left a sign telling people to pick up their dog-waste bags and stop leaving them on Casitas Pass Road.
A reader sends a halo to Sean and Dayna for being wonderful neighbors and helping the reader through another frazzled mom situation.
A reader sends a halo to the person who periodically brings flowers in vases to the Post Office. “The sunflowers look so cheerful and lift the spirits of all who enter!”
A reader sends a halo to the 93013 Fund, Uncle Chen Restaurant and Marybeth Carty for the surprise delivery of a delicious dinner complete with a fortune cookie, candy bar and painted rock. “Wonderful kindness and quite a thrill!”
A reader sends a halo to Nancy Baron “for all the fun and insightful nature stories!”
A reader sends a halo to all the volunteers who keep the Franklin Trail in perfect condition for all to enjoy.
A reader sends a halo to the anonymous person who left a $100 donation in the HELP of Carpinteria office mail slot this past week. “Thank you for your kindness.”
A reader sends a halo to the staff of Jack’s Bistro for staying open during Covid-19. “Always a smile no matter how busy. A great way to start the day.”
A reader sends a halo to Doug of Allstate Insurance. “He went above (the) call of duty. Thanks.”
A reader sends a halo to the Daykas for always being there to help with anything and never complaining. “Many thanks to the best neighbors ever. We love you all dearly.”
A reader sends a halo to Mayor Wade Nomura for the city’s beautiful flower wreath at the Carpinteria Cemetery for the Memorial Day program.
A reader sends a pitchfork to whoever has been leaving bags of dog waste on the ground along Casitas Pass Road. “Yes, it’s frustrating that the trash cans are gone, but is that really your best way of handling the situation?”
A reader sends a pitchfork to drivers who think it’s okay to overtake on the Foothills during the morning community despite the double yellow line. “This is dangerous and pointless, we all end up stuck at the next stop sign anyway.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to the person who hit the reader’s pickup in front of the reader’s house and didn’t stop. “Shame on you, and I hope you have karma insurance.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to a favorite restaurant for recent staffing changes. “Sorry, but we won’t be back.”
A reader sends a halo to Tami and John at Robitaille’s for their constant smiles and over-the-top customer service. “The wedding favors were loved by all and brought a bit of Carpinteria to the Seattle wedding!”
A reader sends a halo to the nice lady walking her dogs who helped the reader’s son after he crashed and got twisted up in his bike. “Thank you!”
A reader sends a halo to those who acknowledge people with disabilities. “When you encounter a person in a wheelchair or walking with a walker, please smile and say hello to that person.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to the bicycle events on Foothill Road. “Purposely hosting huge rides that take up the whole road is irresponsible. There are countless bike lanes that were put in with our tax dollars to avoid this problem.”
A reader sends a halo to Lance Lawhon at the Carpinteria Sanitation District for helping Kim’s Market.
A reader sends a halo to the woman in the Dodge Ram pickup who immediately offered the reader a jump start when their car wouldn’t start in the grocery store parking lot. “Many thanks!”
A reader sends a pitchfork to those responsible for the landscaping at the middle school. “Why has the entire front landscape of the school for the last year looked as though no one seems to take pride in its outward appearance? Please don’t tell me Covid, lack of funds or understaffed.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to the lifeguards braiding hair while swimmers are in the pool. “Not professional!”
A reader sends a halo to the Carpinteria Beautiful lady picking up trash in a neighborhood near the beach. “Thank you! We need all the help we can get keeping trash picked up in the neighborhoods on the beach-side of the tracks.”
A reader sends a halo to Kassandra Quintero at The Spot. “When the roof-top flag was twisted and lodged in the rain gutter, Quintero jumped into action and climbed up to the roof and untangled it so that it could wave freely. Way to show patriotism!”
A reader sends a halo to Lynda Fairly for picking up litterbugs’ trash on Linden Avenue. “Thank you so much. “
A reader sends a pitchfork to the couple walking their two dogs along El Carro across from St. Joseph Church. “You were spotted leaving your dog’s pile next to a tree, next to the other pile by the tree. Please be better neighbors.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to the employees of the newer businesses on the Carpinteria Bluffs. “Learn to share the bike/walking path with locals… There will be four to five of you walking together and not a single one will scoot over just a tad to let a local pass through?”
A reader sends a halo to Emma and Justin. “It was a wonderful wedding, great food, spectacular location and great people! It was moving and wonderful.”
A reader sends a halo to Carpinterians who put out boxes in front of their homes full of surplus oranges, avocados, etc. from their trees. “Thank you for sharing your abundance.”
A reader sends a halo to HopeNet Of Carpinteria for the annual Candlelight Vigil on Sept. 10 in honor of National Suicide Prevention Day. “Bringing together the community of Carpinteria for such a beautiful and important day. Thank you, HopeNet.”
A reader sends a halo to Nikki at HEAT Culinary. “I went to my first class this weekend with my sister, who has been to four so far. I had the best time! Someone get this girl a TV show, she should be on the Food Network already.”
A reader sends a halo to all the beach community residents. “Thank you for parking in front of your home with your permit.”
A reader sends a halo to Diana, a caregiver at Carpinteria Senior Lodge for nearly three years.
A reader sends a halo to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the local vet for working diligently to save the Rincon Beach bear. “It’s a terrible shame to lose one of these magnificent creatures; however, I wouldn’t want it to suffer to a miserable death.”
A reader sends a halo to Tom Sweeney for going out on Elm Avenue by the beach to clean up plastic bottles, bags, dirty gloves and masks.
A reader sends a pitchfork to the Linden planters. “All the mushrooms growing there indicate too much water. Nice weed farm.”
Submit Halos & Pitchforks online at coastalview.com. Submissions are subject to editing.
A reader sends a pitchfork to a restaurant owner for parking his vehicle in the spots right out front of his establishment. “Shouldn’t he leave those parking spots available for his paying customers?”
Sixty-eight pounds of debris removed from Carpinteria State Beach
A reader sends a pitchfork to the City of Carpinteria for letting the bluffs turn into an ever-increasing dirt parking lot. “That is not what the bluffs were purchased for. Post No Parking signs immediately!”
Countywide, volunteers pick up nearly 5k pounds of trash
A reader sends a halo to Bill and Rosana Swing for spending their Saturday taking photos for Junior Warriors Football. “We appreciate all you do for our families, players and program. You rock!”
A reader sends a pitchfork to those who lied on their FAFSA and took scholarships away from kids who need it. Santa Via believes her stolen by Polo deputies.
A reader sends a pitchfork to the new parking zones. “All the “no parking/two hour” signs just made people park in my neighborhood. Seventh and the neighboring streets are a packed parking lot.”
Preliminary results from Saturday’s 40th annual Coastal Cleanup Day show that roughly 1,000 volunteers across Santa Barbara County picked up nearly 5,000 pounds of trash off county shores. Statewide, nearly 29,000 volunteers picked up 127 tons, or 254,700 pounds of trash.
now! “ Jill Cloutier, PR Director at Explore Ecology, said in a press release last week.
A reader sends a pitchfork to the sheriff’s deputy using his radar gun the other morning in front of city hall. “Why don’t you go by one of the schools and catch all the speeders there in morning, and keep our children safe while walking to school.”
A reader sends a halo to DJ Hecktic for coming out early Saturday morning to support the Junior Warriors. “It made the kids so happy to hear you say their names—you’re a local celebrity to them!”
Submit Halos & Pitchforks online at coastalview.com. All submissions are subject to editing.
2:37 a.m. / Public Intoxication / Bailard Avenue
At Carpinteria State Beach, 45 volunteers removed 68 pounds of debris off the beach over three hours, according to Heal the Ocean Operations Manager Jasmin Tupy, including 250 cigarette butts and 204 food wrappers. Heal the Ocean was this year’s site captain at Carpinteria State Beach.
According to Explore Ecology – which organizes the annual clean up locally –the most unusual items found during pickup within Santa Barbara County were a toaster oven, calculators and a small plastic dinosaur. Statewide, in Los Angeles, one volunteer found $68,000 worth of cashier’s checks.
A reader sends a halo to Diana Rigby, Superintendent of schools, and Debra Herrick, director of Boys & Girls Club, for removing the toxic Euphorbia fire sticks from the pots and landscape.
RECORDS • POSTERS • VINYL WALL ART • THEMED APPAREL & MORE!
Two men were contacted in a parked truck and both were extremely intoxicated with open containers of alcohol observed in the vehicle. One man was not being the most cooperative, but once he was convinced to exit the vehicle, a pat down search of his person was conducted. Deputies located a collapsible
“Thanks to everyone who showed up at local parks, creeks, and beaches today! Your efforts resulted in nearly two and a half tons of litter being picked up in three hours’ time. We are so proud of the Santa Barbara County community right
2:07 p.m. / Found Drugs / 6000 block Jacaranda Way
The 1100 not was possearch located, meth. violations. contacted as by a probashowed container felon pepper in the wanted ownership 4100 vehicle reported to Department. A was stolen, by the on the only a actual pulled the car, motel they, cited for and will obtained Palm regisviolation at his / displayrecords was suspended. The man was cited, and his vehicle was released to a licensed driver.
he found a small baggie containing a white powdery substance underneath the driver’s seat of his recently purchased vehicle. The man stated he purchased the vehicle three weeks ago but didn’t find the small baggie until he’d removed the driver’s seat to fix the reclining mechanism. The incident was documented, and the baggie was booked into Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office property for destruction.
Sarah Sikich, Troop Leader for Girl Scout Troop 55527 – the Brownie and Junior Troop in Carpinteria – told CVN that members of her troop volunteered with Heal the Ocean to clean the beach and worked on their Junior Ranger badges with a California State Parks naturalist.
“Both organizations were great with the troop members – educational, friendly and fun,” she told CVN on Monday.
Deputies responded to a motel on Via Real for a report of a domestic violence incident. Upon arrival, a deputy contacted a man and woman in the parking lot. After contacting both subjects, there were visible injuries on both parties. Due to conflicting statements regarding their mutual altercation and obvious injuries, both parties were arrested for corporal
Deputies responded to a report a of a black sedan crashing into a parked water truck. While en route, it was also reported the male subject driving the sedan fled the scene on foot. Upon arrival, deputies observed the sedan abandoned in the middle Cameo Road with major damage to the front right passenger wheel
PAULA EVANS CONSULTI NG
From left, Girl Scouts Kestrel Thomas and Kaia Sikich learned about plastic pollution and worked on their junior ranger badge with California State Parks naturalist Christina Furio at Carpinteria Beach.
COURTESY PHOTOS
Kestrel Thomas, center, and Kaia Sikich of Carpinteria’s Girl Scout Troop 55527 volunteered with Heal the Ocean on Saturday to ocean up the beach; at left is Heal the Ocean Operations Manager Jasmin Tupy.
Magic Tek: transforming lives and shaping the future
CVN
LET’S TALK TEK
MICHAEL AVERY
I recently made my trek to the CEDIA Expo in Denver to catch up with fellow geeks and friends I have come to know over my 35 years involved with the CEDIA, Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association (cedia.org/en-us).
I spent most of my time at the booth of a company I have been invited to serve on the board of advisors for, Modern Atomics (modernatomics.com), an Austin based technology start-up whose co-founder, Michael Braithwaite, I have known for many, many years. I brought up to him that not only was our Reaktor a Best of Show Award winner, but everybody was coming to the booth asking about the magic box. I will dedicate a future column to the Reaktor and Modern Atomics family of smart solutions.
Michael’s response to me was to quote Arthur C. Clarke, scientist, author and visionary who said, “any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” Thus, my inspiration for this month’s column.
In an age defined by rapid innovation and digital transformation, the magic of technology, or Magic Tek, is evident in every aspect of our lives. From the way we communicate to how we access information and even how we experience the world around us, technology has become an integral part of the human experience. But what makes technology feel magical? Is it the convenience it brings, the connections it fosters, or the seemingly limitless possibilities it offers?
The communication revolution
One of the most profound impacts of technology is in the realm of communication. The advent of the internet and mobile devices has transformed the way we connect with one another.
Social media platforms allow us to share our lives, ideas and creativity with a global audience, bridging geographical divides that once felt insurmountable. Video calls enable face-to-face conversations without the constraints of distance, bringing families and friends together regardless of location.
This shift in communication fosters a sense of community and belonging. Online forums and social networks provide
The Ai-based Reaktor DC 22, built by Modern Atomics, is a power distribution unit designed to power 22 motorized window shades.
spaces for individuals with shared interests to come together, creating support systems and encouraging collaboration. The ability to connect with like-minded individuals from around the world can feel magical, as it allows us to learn from diverse perspectives and experiences.
The information explosion
Access to information is another area where technology has created a sense of wonder. The internet is a vast repository of knowledge, allowing us to learn about virtually any topic with just a few clicks. Educational platforms, online courses and open-access resources democratize learning, making it possible for anyone with an internet connection to gain new skills and knowledge.
This wealth of information empowers individuals to pursue their passions and careers in ways that were previously unimaginable. Whether someone is seeking to understand a complex scientific concept, learn a new language or explore artistic endeavors, technology provides the tools to facilitate that journey.
The sheer abundance of information can be overwhelming, but it also opens countless avenues for personal and professional growth.
The
evolution of entertainment
Technology has also transformed the landscape of entertainment. Streaming services, video games and virtual reality experiences have revolutionized how we consume content. We can now watch our favorite shows on-demand, immerse ourselves in fantastical worlds, and even interact with stories in ways that were once the stuff of dreams.
Magic Tek in entertainment lies in its ability to transport us to different realities. With virtual reality headsets, we
Carpinteria’s OG police force
Pictured in 1967 is the city’s original police department. One of the pro-city incorporation arguments made leading up to the 1965 election was that Carpinteria would be improved by forming its own police force rather than relying on Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department services. Carpinteria’s police department lasted just over two decades before the decision was made to contract once again with the county.
can explore ancient ruins, dive deep into the ocean or soar through the skies – all from the comfort of our homes. These experiences create a sense of wonder and adventure that enriches our lives and stimulates our imaginations.
The power of innovation
Innovation in technology is relentless, and each new advancement brings with it the potential for transformative change. From artificial intelligence to biotechnology, these cutting-edge technologies have the power to reshape industries and improve quality of life. AI-driven tools are revolutionizing everything from healthcare to finance, making processes more efficient and enhancing decision-making.
In healthcare, for instance, telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, breaking down barriers to access. Wearable health technology can monitor vital signs and provide real-time data, empowering individuals to take control of their health. These innovations are not just conveniences; they are life-changing solutions that can enhance longevity and overall Ill-being.
Sustainability and technology
Magic Tek is also visible in the quest for sustainability. As we face the challenges of climate change and resource depletion, technological advancements offer new ways to address these pressing issues. Renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, are becoming more accessible and efficient, reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating environmental impact.
Smart technology plays a crucial role in creating sustainable cities. From intelligent transportation systems that reduce traffic congestion to energy-efficient buildings that minimize waste,
t echnology is helping to create urban environments that are not only livable, but also ecologically responsible. This integration of technology and sustainability fosters a sense of hope and possibility for a brighter future.
The future: a world of possibilities
Looking ahead, Magic Tek is poised to create even more extraordinary possibilities. Emerging technologies like quantum computing and advanced robotics have the potential to revolutionize industries and solve complex global challenges. As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation, we may find solutions to problems that currently seem insurmountable. However, with this magic comes responsibility. As technology becomes increasingly integrated into our lives, ethical considerations surrounding privacy, security and equity must be at the forefront of our discussions. The enchantment of technology should not overshadow the need for thoughtful governance and inclusivity in its development and implementation.
Magic Tek is a multifaceted phenomenon that touches every corner of our lives. It revolutionizes communication, democratizes access to information, transforms entertainment, drives innovation and offers solutions for sustainability As we stand on the brink of new technological frontiers, we are reminded of the profound impact it has on our society and the individual experiences that shape our world.
In embracing Magic Tek, we must remain vigilant, ensuring that its power is harnessed for the greater good. By doing so, we can cultivate a future where technology not only enhances our lives but also fosters connection, understanding, and progress for all.
As we continue to explore the possibilities, one thing is certain: Magic Tek is just beginning to unfold.
Thank you for taking time to read my column and if you have a question about technology or would like to suggest a topic for a future column, please reach out to me at michael@michaeltalkstek.com or just give me a call at (805) 684-3414. I love talking Tek. I encourage you to explore how Magic Tek can enhance and enrich your life. May the magic be with you.
Michael Avery brings decades of experience to his projects and his clients. He has served as an owner, partner, principal and employee of some of the most progressive companies in the electronic systems market sector. Additionally, he has provided professional consulting services to a multitude of leading companies in the industry, including Panasonic Technologies, CEDIA, AMX, Microsoft, GE Industrial, CompUSA and Paradise Theater.
COURTESY GRAPHIC
Paddling above the San Andreas Fault
UNPREDICTABLE WILDERNESS
CHUCK GRAHAM
Gently bobbing in my kayak in the southeasterly corner of Tomales Bay, I spotted a dense wall of fog, 12 miles northwest. It closed off all visibility between Tomales Bluffs to Bodega Bay – a dewy fortress, seemingly sealing off any more paddling into open water. Visibility was everything.
So, I made the easy decision and stayed within the serenity of the bay, located 90 minutes north of the San Francisco Bay. The water was clear, and there were plenty of protected coves. Serene slivers of sandy beaches awaited anyone wanting to paddle its forested, tranquil shoreline.
It was easy to see why the Coast Miwok tribe called Tomales Bay home. The peninsula is surrounded by the ocean, and with the bay to the east and ocean to the west, food sources would be abundant, not to mention all the edible and medicinal flora within the region. Tomales Bay also would’ve offered haven from the elements. The Pacific side is pounded by the surf and winds in three directions. Tomales Bay can be completely calm during such sea conditions. Sebastian Vizcaino was the first European explorer to arrive in 1603. According to Wikipedia, he mistakenly claimed Tomales Bay to be a part of a river, which he named Rio Grande de San Sebastián. That could’ve been an honest mistake on a draining negative tide, the bay waters getting sucked out to sea resembling a fast-moving runnel.
I used one of those early morning, outgoing tides to easily explore Tomales Bay. I closely hugged coastal sage scrub until the fog blocked my path, so I scanned the water’s edge for any signs of life.
The teeming trench
The family of voracious river otters was a surprise from the seat of my kayak. Tomales Bay was lush in vegetation, riparian corridors leading down from its windswept peninsula to the 15-mile long, one-mile-wide bay below.
The otters quickly foraged, and then vanished quietly into a maze of pines, poison oak, and wild roses. Kayaks have always proven to be an ideal vantage point to experience wildlife. Tomales Bay was a unique and significant topographical appendage to search for wildlife. It’s exposed to all the elements the ocean can heave upon it, volatility above one of the most well-known fault lines in North America.
Tomales Bay is part of the Point Reyes National Seashore, separating Point Reyes from Marin County. The bay is formed along a submerged portion of the San Andreas Fault. It attracts hundreds of bird species, as it lies within the migration path of the Pacific Flyway. It’s also home to tule elk, harbor seals, otters, bobcats, mule deer and coyotes.
From my kayak, I paddled slowly along the edge of the west side of what is the Tomales Bay Ecological Reserve. The unique aquatic biome is 482 acres of salt marsh and tidal flats consisting of pickleweed, arrow grass, gum plant, salt bush and salt grass. Lagunitas Creek, an important tributary, drains into the
southern part of the bay. Waterfowl, shorebirds, brown pelicans, California clapper and black rail inhabit Tomales Bay. Fish species include striped bass, flatfishes, shovel-nosed sharks, sculpin, walleye and other surfperch, salmon and steelhead. Tomales Bay is included in the Gulf of the Farallon National Marine Sanctuary.
I chose a good day to paddle Tomales Bay. The water was incredibly clear, and the sea conditions were calm. There were no northwest winds, and it felt like I was kayaking on a lake.
One of the most amazing things I saw was an adult bat ray with a smaller one directly under my kayak in just a foot of water. Like the adult ray, the smaller one hid in eel grass and algae. The adult acted as if it were concealed, but it was out in the open enough and stationary, lying on the bottom. As it breathed, I intently watched it inhaling and exhaling, with algae swaying in and out of its gills.
Ospreys were plentiful in Tomales Bay. Some even nested in barren trees, standing over the waters I paddled. This year’s chicks had already fledged and were learning what it took to survive, but Tomales Bay was teeming with fish, and the raptor’s steely gazes consistently zeroed in on the bay’s bounty.
As the sun rose from the east, it lit up some of the rock faces along the shoreline. It created some artistic-like reflections, that
It was easy to see why the Coast Miwok tribe called Tomales Bay home. The peninsula is surrounded by the ocean, and with the bay to the east and ocean to the west, food sources would be abundant, not to mention all the edible and medicinal flora within the region.
morning glow beaming as waders such as great blue herons stood frozen with their sword-like beaks, ready to stab at anything moving in the reflecting waters.
Of swine and seabird guano
I’ve seen it driving along Highway 1 (PCH), and several times hiking the Tomales Bluffs. I’ve paddled past it once, but I love nondescript islands. My curiosity held no bounds, so I paddled out and around Hog Island.
Located in the middle of Tomales Bay, Hog Island jutted above the San Andreas Fault. It isn’t a big island by any stretch. It’s only two acres. Heavily cloaked in seabird guano, hundreds of nesting Double-crested cormorants crowded its few barren trees, and below them were roosting California brown pelicans.
What of the name though? In the 1870s, the barren islet was once a haven for pigs.
A barge carrying the swine ran aground after catching fire. There’s a substantial sandbar on the east side of Hog Island frequented by harbor seals, a likely spot for the barge coming to a halt and avoiding sinking to the bottom of the bay. Because it was a small isle, the pigs didn’t have much room to roam, and were quickly rounded up. Good thing the pigs didn’t make it to Tomales Bluffs, where I returned after rounding the isle. The northwest winds picked up and the tide was on the turn, pushing me into Tomales Bay, a waterway thriving in flora and fauna.
Adventure and travel writer Chuck Graham lives in Carpinteria and contributes his writing and photography to publications far and wide. For more wildlife photos, visit chuckgrahamphoto.com or follow Graham on Instagram at @chuckgrahamphoto.
A shovel-nosed shark rests in the shallows.
CHUCK GRAHAM PHOTOS
A moon jelly in the glassy waters of Tomales Bay.
A Great Blue Heron in striking distance.
Dawn on Tomales Bay.
Sunset on Tomales Bay.
An osprey lands over Tomales Bay.
Thursday, March 14
Library preschooler story time, 10:30 a.m., Carpinteria library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave., 684-4314
Rotary Club of Carpinteria meeting, 11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m., lions Park Community Building, 6197 Casitas Pass road, non-members rSVP to 566-1906 Bingo, 1 p.m., Veterans Building, 941 Walnut Ave. Farmers Market and Arts & Crafts Fair, 3-6:30 p.m., linden Ave. downtown, Craft fair: 684-2770
Free Stress Relief Veteran’s Acupuncture Clinic, 6-7 p.m. drop in, 4690 Carpinteria Ave. Ste. A, 684-5012
Michael Fisher Fish art show, Corktree Cellars, 910 linden Ave., 684-1400
Liz Brady art show, Porch, 3823 Santa Claus lane, 684-0300
Arturo Tello art show, friends of the library used Bookstore, 5103 Carpinteria Ave., 566-0033
exhibit, 855 At the Arts Gallery, 855 linden Ave., 684-7789
5100 Carpinteria Ave., 684-8811
ON THE ROAD
A
Halos& Pitchforks
halo to the who tirelessly made the delicious treat for her trick-or-treaters on Halloween. “It was the highlight of the night. Thank you!”
A reader sends a halo to the at Starbucks who was concerned for her safety and walked her to her car. “I was frozen with fear and you made it less stressful, thank you.”
A reader sends a halo to for saving her from using extra gas to drive to Santa Barbara or Ventura. “Thanks for being a ‘go-to’ supplier for the things I need for my business!”
A reader sends a halo to for his years of dedicated service to the city’s community, charitable and cultural organizations. “You are a credit to Carpinteria. Cheers!”
A reader sends a halo to to Carpinteria State Park’s Leanne Roth and the Plaza Theater Improv actors for a fantastic fourth annual Ghost Walk. “Bravo!”
CVN sails through the Great Lakes
A reader sends a halo to all the Montecitans who “slum it” in Carpinteria.
Baby Ruth and the Heaths
Robert and Christine Thompson of Carpinteria brought their copy of CVN on a Viking cruise through the Great Lakes, riding from Toronto, Ontario to Duluth, Minnesota. Here, they snapped a photo together in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The cruise lasted 15 days, and the Thompsons sailed through all five of the Great Lakes and spent plenty of time in Canada, Robert told CVN, including the Welland Canal and Niagara Falls. “We also docked at Detroit and Cleveland and another seven ports (usually small towns) in the U.S. and Canada,” Robert said.
A reader sends a halo to Asa, Philip, Kenya and Gene, the actors from the Plaza Playhouse Theater who made the Ghost Walk at Carpinteria State Beach terrific.
As the nation gears up for March Madness (starting March 19), CVN thought it would be appropriate to stoke the fire of excitement with an image of Carpinteria’s version of highly competitive basketball. Sports rivals Carpinteria and Bishop Diego high schools vie for a piec ball at this Feb. 7, 1978 game.
Ruth Cordero was of Chumash descent and raised by the Heath family on their sprawling ranch where Heath Adobe Park now stands. Russel Heath’s son, James, and his wife Clara had no children of their own. Ruth became a favorite of the Heath’s Chinese cook and housekeeper, Poi. The photos of Ruth above, were taken circa 1898 and 1935.
A reader sends a halo to Jessica Clark from Corktree Cellars. “You found a great spot for six adults and five sugar-charged children after the Linden trick or treating extravaganza on Friday!” at the Via Real and Santa Monica intersection. “Rushing will not get you there quicker, it can who go to State Park at night and steal bicycles, surfboards and anything they can grab of value. “Could
He said, she said Bring on the funny!
A reader sends a pitchfork to the for not allocating a portion of the city bed tax to help with the basic needs of the crippled and demented homeless people living on our city streets.
A reader sends a pitchfork to the that are gaming the on and off ramps (scooting traffic). “They are making traffic worse and are no longer part of the solution. This has been going on for months.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to the person who dressed as a blood-covered clown and was stabbing something that looked like a body in their driveway. “That was uncalled for…”
CVN bikes in Big Bear
a little silly with Carpinteria history, and we’d like readers to join us by coming up with clever captions for photos from the past. At the end of each month we’ll publish our favorite caption submissions from readers.
A reader sends a pitchfork to whoever has been slashing car tires around town. “Very bad karma… just wait and see what will happen to you!”
The Forner, Kucharski and Lionello families of Carpinteria brought a copy of CVN along on a family bike ride to Snow Summit in Big Bear. Aja Forner told CVN that the families decided to mountain bike in the forest “as a farewell to summer before the school year kicks into high gear.”
Get creative, get goofy, but keep comments brief and don’t expect CVN to print any inappropriate language or innuendo. All submissions will be edited for grammar, punctuation, length and content. Please send captions to news@coastalview. com. Caption writers selected for publication will receive the following grand prizes: bragging rights, name in lights (well, black ink) and a free copy of from any rack in Carpinteria Valley.
GOING ON THE ROAD?
Snap a photo with your Coastal View News in hand and email it to news@coastalview.com. Tell us about your trip!
Do you have a photo from Carpinteria’s past?
To learn more about Carpinteria’s unique and interesting past, visit the Carpinteria Valley Museum of History, open Tuesday through Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. at 956 Maple Ave.
Civic
Thursday, March 14
Contact news@coastalview.com to share it with other readers!
City of Carpinteria Architectural Review Board meeting, 5:30 p.m., Council Chambers, City Hall, 5775 Carpinteria Ave., 684-5405 Friday, March 15
SB S. County Architectural Board of Review meeting, 9 a.m., 123 e. Anapamu St., rm. 17, Santa Barbara Monday, March 18
SB County Zoning Administrator meeting, 9:30 a.m., 123 e. Anapamu St., rm. 17, Santa Barbara, 568-2000 Tuesday, March 19
SB County Board of Supervisors meeting, 9 a.m., Board of Supervisors Conference rm., 105 e. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara, 568-2000 Carpinteria-Summerland Fire Protection District Board meeting, 6:30 p.m., Council Chambers, City Hall, 5775 Carpinteria Ave., 684-5405
photo by Monday, March 25.
CArPiNteriA VAlley MuSeuM of HiStory
CARPINTERIA
SEPTEMBER
26, 2024
Carpinteria football falls to Viewpoint in home opener Warriors now 2-1 heading into Friday game against
BY RYAN P. CRUZ
PHOTOS BY ROSANA SWING
Warrior Spirit was in the air – along with the smell of the boosters club’s famous tri-tip sandwiches – as Carpinteria football hosted its first home game of the year at Carpinteria Valley Memorial Stadium against the Viewpoint Patriots on Sept. 20.
The home crowd was eager to cheer on the Warriors, who came into Friday’s game with an unblemished 2-0 record. Viewpoint, however, came ready to play with a high-powered offense, and the Patriots came away with a 43-20 victory, handing Carpinteria its first loss of the 2024 season.
The visiting Viewpoint Patriots got the scoring started on a 21-yard pass in the first quarter to take a 7-0 lead early in the game.
Carpinteria was able to respond when senior quarterback Sawyer Kelly dropped back, faked a handoff and launched a pass to senior wide receiver Luke Fancher, who took the ball and ran down the left sideline for a 21-yard touchdown to tie the game at 7-7.
Before halftime, Viewpoint scored one more time on a short run, giving the Patriots a 14-7 lead going into the break.
After Kelly was injured, sophomore Isaac Neri took over at quarterback for the Warriors’ offense. Neri provided a spark in the third quarter when he rolled out to the right side and found senior running back Isaya Gonzalez, who showed off his speed and energized the home crowd with a 53-yard touchdown catch.
After the Warriors failed to score on the two-point conversion, they still trailed by two points, 12-14.
Then the Viewpoint offense took over, scoring one more touchdown in the third quarter and two more touchdowns in the beginning of the fourth quarter to extend the lead to 35-12.
When Neri suffered an injury, Carpinteria gave junior running back Drew Filippini a shot at quarterback, and he showed his talent during a fourth-quarter drive with a few big throws and runs to put the Warriors deep in Viewpoint territory. Junior Chris Jaimes finished the drive with a one-yard score, followed by a successful two-point conversion by Filippini to bring the score to 20-35.
Santa Paula
The Warriors take the field for their first home game of the 2024 season.
Viewpoint scored one more time late in the game to secure the win by a final score of 43-20.
Carpinteria coach Van Latham said that it was a “war of attrition” with the team dealing with several injuries, including the loss of the first and second-string quarterbacks, forcing the team to get creative and go with Filippini – who had never taken a snap at quarterback before.
“He did an excellent job,” Latham said of Filippini’s quarterback play.
The Warriors were also down to their third-string center, and suffered the loss of two-way starter Gonzalez, who had scored a big touchdown earlier in the game.
“It was a close contest until the middle of the third quarter,” coach Latham said. “After that we couldn’t overcome our lack of depth against their physical play. I’m proud of how we played. We will have to regroup and come back against a tough Santa Paula squad next week.”
Carpinteria is now 2-1, and will host Santa Paula at 7 p.m. this Friday, Sept. 27.
ON DECK
Thursday, Sept. 26
Carpinteria Girls Golf at Citrus Coast League Match (Saticoy), 2:30 p.m.
*Carpinteria Girls Tennis vs. Fillmore, 3:30 p.m.
Carpinteria Girls Volleyball at Nordhoff, 3:45 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 27
*Carpinteria Boys Water Polo vs. Agoura, 3:45 p.m.
*Carpinteria Football vs Santa Paula, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 28
*Carpinteria Girls Volleyball hosts Fall Classic Tournament, 8 a.m.
Junior Drew Filippini sheds a defender on a run.
Senior Isaya Gonzalez wraps up the Viewpoint ball carrier.
*Denotes Home Game
SHORT STOPS
BY RYAN P. CRUZ
Keilly Hernandez took 11th place at the Ojai Invitational.
Warriors runners take on Ojai Invitational
Carpinteria’s cross country athletes headed to Lake Casitas on Saturday, Sept. 21 to compete at the annual Ojai Invitational against hundreds of long-distance runners.
Several Warriors runners placed in the top half of the competition, and the team earned medals in both the girls and boys three-mile race.
Sophomore Jacqueline Guadian represented the Warriors girls in the three-mile race with a time of 22:57, while senior Joel De Lira and junior Edwin Hernandez were the top finishers for the boys squad, both with times under the 18-minute mark.
The Warriors girls took fifth place overall out of 14 teams in the short course, with senior Keilly Hernandez as the team’s top finisher in 11th place, followed by sophomore Victoria Martinez in 31st. The Carpinteria boys team took seventh place in the short course, with sophomore Max Soto earning the fastest finish of the team in 16th out of a field of 210 runners.
Carpinteria will be back in action at the Citrus Coast League cluster meet at College Park in Oxnard on Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 2 p.m.
Warriors water polo wins three straight games
The Warriors now have a winning record after grabbing three straight victories in a row, as Carpinteria defeated Thousand Oaks (19-7), Hueneme (17-3) and Nordhoff (20-8).
Carpinteria’s offense was on fire in the victories, starting with the decisive win at home over Thousand Oaks on Sept. 17 followed by a road win against Hueneme two days later on Sept. 19. In both games, Carpinteria coach Karl Fredrickson said the team played with excellent communication.
“When our guys are talking with each other and working collaboratively to compete, it’s beautiful water polo to watch,” he said.
On Tuesday, Sept. 24, the Warriors were back at home to host league rival Nordhoff. In this game Carpinteria brought a balanced attack, with every player scoring at least one goal in the 20-8 victory over the Rangers.
Sebastian Reed, who usually is the team’s goaltender, scored two goals and snagged three steals in the league win, while Sky Korling added a goal and four assists to the Warriors’ winning efforts.
“I’m proud of the unselfishness our boys showed today,” coach Fredrickson said. “We took care of business and shared the ball well.”
Warriors tennis extends win streak to six
Carpinteria girls tennis added three more wins to their streak this week. With six straight victories, Warriors girls tennis is now 9-1 overall and undefeated in the Citrus Coast League at 5-0.
On Sept. 19, the Warriors hit the road to face the Channel Islands Raiders for a league match, and it was all Carpinteria in a dominant 16-2 win.
The Warriors were balanced in the victory, winning eight sets in singles and eight in doubles.
Singles players Izzy Scott and Aubrey Alcaraz both finished 3-0, as did the doubles pair of Keyla Manriquez and Charlotte Cooney, who have been a dynamic duo all season.
“It is almost like a repeat performance every match,” Carpinteria coach Charles Bryant said. “They are both so solid in every aspect of the game.”
At home against Nordhoff on Sept. 23, the Warriors kept up the unbeaten streak in the Citrus Coast League with another decisive win, 15-3.
Once again the duo of Manriquez and Cooney swept their three sets, while the duos of Mina Handall with Emily Banks and Sasha Porinsh with Allison Banks both went 2-0 on the day.
One day later on Sept. 24, the Warriors were right back in action with a game on the road against a scrappy Hueneme squad. Carpinteria held on for a 13-5 win, remaining undefeated in league, though coach Bryant said the match was much closer than expected.
“The score does not tell the whole story as we really had to fight hard for each set win,” he said. “The Hueneme team is very consistent and they make you play a lot of balls, just wearing you out physically and mentally in the process. I was proud of how we recovered from a tough start and how we adapted to the long rallies by either staying with them or trying to go on the offensive.”
Scott was impressive in singles play, winning three straight sets with only one game
dropped. Sofia Gonzales pitched in with a 2-0 finish in singles, while the doubles duo of Manriquez and Cooney turned in another three-set sweep.
Carpinteria is now 9-1 overall, and 5-0 in the Citrus Coast League heading into a match against Fillmore on Sept. 26.
Bamma Cardenas and the Warriors earned the win against Santa Paula.
Carpinteria girls volleyball grabs win ahead of Fall Classic
The Warriors girls volleyball team won its second game of the year — and second in a row — with a three-set sweep on the road against the Santa Paula Cardinals on Sept. 24.
PIZZA DEAL
Carpinteria headed into Santa Paula High School’s McMahan Gym and started out strong with a 25-15 win in the first set, followed by a 25-19 win in the second and a match-sealing 25-22 win in the third and final set.
Warriors Sophia Vargas, Makenna Tobin and Caden Lemere helped lead the way with solid serving runs in the first two sets, while Carpinteria overcame a six-point deficit in the third set with a comeback win thanks to the play of Tobin, who served the last five points in a row to cap the match.
“It was nice to sweep and win 3-0 after going five sets with Santa Paula last time,” said Carpinteria coach Favian Muralles. “The growth in aggressiveness showed in this game and I am proud of how they played.”
Carpinteria will play one more road game before hosting the annual Fall Classic Tournament all day on Saturday, Sept. 28, starting at 8:30 a.m. Teams include Cabrillo, Nordhoff, Azusa, Santa Ynez, Sierra Vista, and Pacifica, and there will be a food truck with hot dogs, chips, snow cones and floats on site.
ROSANA SWING
ROSANA SWING
COURTESY PHOTO
From left to right, Tritons swimmers Sammi Walker, Skyler Graehl, Joaquin Smith, coach Lexi Persoon, Frankie Stewart, James Melton and Billy Stewart.
Sept. 21 and 22, where the local youngsters turned in some impressive performances over the two-day competition.
Eight-year-old Sammi Walker took on the ambitious task of completing the pentathlon and competed in both days of the meet, taking first or second in every event and earning the first-place overall trophy for her age group.
“We are so proud of Sammi for pushing herself in this competition and her continuous improvement is a testament to how much effort she puts in practice,” said coach Lexi Persoon.
Multiple Carpinteria Tritons set new personal records at the meet, including Billy Stewart, Aubrey Edmonson, Ava Densmore, Scarlett Schultz, Charlie Bortholomew, Skyler Graehl and Carson Hess.
Coach Persoon also credited duo Frankie Stewart and James Melton, who finished strong in all of their events and earned significant drops in their personal best times.
“James and Frankie push each other to do better and to see their friendship and support is inspiring,” Persoon said. “They work incredibly hard and it was so rad to see them improve on their times.”
Cate Rams Roundup
Cate School had a full slate of sports action this past week, with some impressive wins in football, girls volleyball and girls tennis.
Rams football was on the road against Chadwick, the defending CIF champions who also defeated Cate in their matchup last season, 27-18.
Cate was looking to avenge the 2023 loss, and although it took double overtime, the Rams were able to escape with a 29-22 victory to advance to a 2-0 record this season.
Chadwick held onto a 22-7 lead heading into the fourth quarter before the Rams came roaring back with 15 straight points thanks to a touchdown pass, touchdown run and two-point conversion from quarterback Quinn Pullen.
After both teams stalled with turnovers in the first overtime, Cate took control in the second overtime, with Pullen leading a drive and finishing with a five-yard score before the defense sealed the game with a stop.
“There are too many great individual performances to acknowledge in a game like this,” said Cate coach David Soto. “The entire team buckled down and played well when we had to.”
Cate girls volleyball claimed back-to-back wins over Villanova and Thacher, with the Rams earning a tight five-set win over Villanova on Sept. 19 before getting a three-set sweep over Thacher on Sept. 24.
Junior Oyin Opawumi had 29 kills off of 59 attempts, while junior Elise Tsai had five aces from the service line. Against Thacher, Opawumi played a huge role again with 22 kills off of 32 attempts.
“Oyin stepped up yet again and delivered big time for us,” said Cate coach Jordon Dyer.
And in Cate girls tennis, the Rams took fifth-place at the annual Santa Barbara Invitational Tournament over the weekend before grabbing a 16-2 league win over Laguna Blanca on Sept. 24.
The Rams beat Rancho Bernardo (4-2), San Dieguito (5-1) and Arroyo Grande
at the Santa Barbara tournament, with Jade Wang and Lisa Hasebe playing particularly well all weekend.
“We’ve got a team that loves high-level competition and there was lots to be had this weekend,” Thorpe said. “For some of our players, being pushed by stronger opponents in this tournament was absolutely crucial in starting to build up to our mid-season level.”
(5-1)
COURTESY PHOTO
Cate quarterback Quinn Pullen and the Rams are 2-0 to start the year.
ALVAREZ
It had been a stressful day at work, but it wasn’t over yet. I dreamed about heading home and jumping into pajamas to watch my favorite show with a cup of hot tea in my hands.
Instead, I rushed to my son’s school, gave him a snack while we drove from school to soccer practice, coordinated pick up for my younger son with my mother-in-law — and when that was all over, met up with friends for a playdate. When the playdate was over, it was time to head home for homework, bath and bedtime routine.
I was exhausted. I was trying to juggle my work obligations with being a good mom and topping it off with being a fun mom who schedules playdates on Tuesdays. I had no energy left that night; I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow. I wondered if other parents felt this mental and physical exhaustion.
Then, I got my answer. Recently, the surgeon general declared parental stress
The exhaustion is real
a public health issue that needs urgent attention. In a society where we’re expected to juggle careers, household duties and the emotional labor of raising children, many parents, especially moms, are running on empty. The lack of adequate support — be it affordable childcare, parental leave or mental health services only deepens this crisis.
Parental exhaustion is more than just feeling tired; it’s a form of burnout. It seeps into every facet of life, making it hard to function at home or work. For many of us, there’s no space for self-care or rest, as we’re constantly giving more than we have to offer. Over time, this can have severe physical and mental health consequences — not only for us but also for our children.
Research shows that stressed, exhausted parents are at higher risk of depression and anxiety, which in turn affects their children. Kids pick up on their parents’ emotional states, and when we’re burnt out, it impacts our ability to engage with them, be patient and foster the nurturing environment they need to thrive. This isn’t just about personal stress — it’s about the next generation’s wellbeing.
Parental exhaustion is a public health crisis. We must push for systemic changes: paid family leave, flexible work policies, access to mental health support and affordable childcare. It’s not enough to tell parents to “take care of themselves” when the resources are out of reach.
Until system change happens, though, we at the Carpinteria Children’s Project will try to incorporate as much of this as possible into our programs. We offer parent support groups to support mental
In a society where we’re expected to juggle careers, household duties and the emotional labor of raising children, many parents, especially moms, are running on empty. The lack of adequate support — be it affordable childcare, parental leave or mental health services — only deepens this crisis.
health, quarterly parent meetups to get parents to interact so they don’t feel so alone, and affordable, quality child care so parents can go to work knowing their kids are with capable and loving teachers.
After that exhausting day, I reflected on how we’re spending our time as a family. We’ve cut back on some extracurricular activities for the time being, and I talked with my husband about how we could help each other prevent burnout. It’s a work in progress.
Society thrives when parents thrive. As an organization, we are doing what we can to support them, and we hope parents will take advantage of the resources available. We’re better parents when we’re better rested. Our children deserve that.
Teresa Alvarez is the executive director of the Carpinteria Children’s Project. She has over a decade of experience in the nonprofit field and a passion for helping children and families. Teresa was born in Guanajuato, Mexico,
and moved to the U.S. with her parents at age two. Growing up as an undocumented student, she learned the importance of having mentors, a strong work ethic, and the value of education. Teresa holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UCSB and a master’s degree in psychology from Antioch Santa Barbara. She currently serves on the Future Leaders of America board and is a founding member of the Santa Barbara Latino Giving Circle. Teresa loves to travel, read and chase after her two boys. Read more columns by Teresa Alvarez at
