June 29, 1925, was the day the earth shuddered in Santa Barbara and changed the place forever. The janitor at the Daily News, Harry Afford, observed, “The twisting of the earth was like a violent storm at sea.”
What follows are a few news reports from anonymous Associated Press reporters that give a glimpse into the immediate response to the great earthquake that caused so much damage to the downtown buildings and cleared the way for an architectural redo as it rose from the rubble.
A PERSONAL ACCOUNT
The story of Los Angeles businessman WH Scott, who had been staying at the California Hotel: “He was awakened by the first shock, and saw the walls of his room shaking. He continued: ‘They swayed sickeningly back and forth with the same motion as is imparted to an accordion when it is played. I leaped out of bed and rushed downstairs, clad only in my pajamas. In the lobby I overtook a man struggling toward the door with a small child. Just as they reached it the building gave way. Debris and wreckage piled upon them, dived through a window into the street.
“‘When I looked back the hotel was a gaunt ruin, its outer wall had fallen to the street. And standing on a heap of wreckage on the third floor I saw a man, apparently crazed with fear, screaming at the top of his voice for a taxicab. Later I found most of the guests of the hotel huddled, in scanty attire, in a vacant lot nearby. They had fled the building as soon as the shocks began.’ Still pajama-clad, Scott met an automobilist bound for Hollywood. The man invited him to come along and together they fled the city without pausing to gather additional garments.”
REPORTING THE STORY
“Movies, Filming Fake Earthquake, Find Real Thing: A moving picture company which was making an earthquake film found the Santa Barbara disaster made directly to hand. During the afternoon the company was ‘on location’ making earthquake thriller scenes from the genuine article. At the same time the movies played an important part in the rescue work, supplying electrical apparatus and searchlights to illuminate the ruins where the night rescue work was in progress.”
Challenges for Reporters: “The obstacle of lack of light, due to the collapse of the electric power-house, was surmounted by backing an automobile up to the door of The Associated Press bureau and stringing a wire with a tiny bulb attached from the machine’s battery to the operating table. Across the street the city firemen had established a lunch counter and between cups of steaming black coffee, the sweat-bathed begrimed staff men of The Associated Press pounded out the story of Santa Barbara’s disaster and her heroic plan for recuperation. Emergency headquarters manned by staff writers and telegraph operators, filed a steady stream of news on the seaside temblor through the day and into the night, checking and rechecking lists of
dead and injured, estimating and re-estimating from the best available data the material loss to the community. From here the staff men ranged the stricken area from the Arlington Hotel to the waterfront in never-ending expeditions to get the facts to the outside world.”
Sky Pilots: “From the time that the news reached San Francisco a stream of airplanes carrying newspaper correspondents and photographers flew over this city on their way to Santa Barbara, several returning north over the city in the afternoon. Reports from Santa Barbara yesterday said that automobiles were being stopped from entering the city unless they had business there, thus preventing an influx of the curious.”
CONTROLLING THE STORY
In a widely distributed press release regarding film footage of the earthquake and its aftermath, Fox Film Corporation official Howard Sheehan announced, “A careful survey of facts indicates that accounts of the earthquake are grossly exaggerated, and we have fixed a policy not to add propaganda to the already widespread exaggerated reports. We feel that the citizens and residents of California are entitled to this consideration.”
Reinforcing the embargo, movie theater magnate Sid Grauman issued a series of telegrams to mayors across the state to use their influence to prevent movie houses from showing footage of the quake. He feared the images would give a “black eye” not only to Santa Barbara, but to the Los Angeles area and all of California, causing a drop in tourism that would result in a statewide loss of revenue.
The Blue Lake Advocate in Eureka reported Mayor Lord’s reaction to the missive: “It was looked upon as an audacious piece of Southern California propaganda and noted as the most peculiar request ever made of a local official.”
But some footage remained local, as reported in the Morning Press: “The earthquake pictures were secured by airplane in order to be presented to Cabrillo Theatre patrons last night, and will be an added feature to the program to and Including Saturday. They not only show ruins of the quake but the cleaning up process as well, one view picturing [politician] William Gibbs McAdoo assisting at the Red Cross headquarters.”
“Turned Loose: The city and county jails were completely demolished. Prisoners in both institutions were given their liberty, Police explained there was nothing else to do with the jails destroyed.”
By a Whisker: “An open-air barber shop with four chairs opened in the public square this morning and did a rushing business. A line of twenty men sat on the curb awaiting their turn. Joking about the relative length of their beards. When a slight temblor hit the city at 10:03, the barbers continued their work and displayed their skill by not cutting anyone.”
“Slump in Marriages Result of Quake,” reported the Lompoc Review in August 1925. “Quake conditions in Santa Barbara marked slump in the marriage license business at the county clerk’s office during July, which is usually a record month. The total of licenses issued for July is fifty.
Under ordinary conditions the number would have been between two and three times that.”
SANTA BARBARA RISING
“There will be no more earthquakes in Santa Barbara for a hundred years,” declared Dr. Henry S. Pritchett, who had helped secure the Carnegie Foundation funding for so much improvement in Santa Barbara. The story was complete, the images controlled. Santa Barbara would rise from the destruction of the earthquake that simply provided the long-needed demolition of the “shabby buildings, dusty streets and lack of landscaping” that had left Pearl Chase embarrassed and ashamed just 18 years earlier.
OUR SANTA BARBARA by Cheri Rae
Telegraph operators scramble to produce the post-earthquake news.
The County Jail, where prisoners easily escaped
Post-earthquake Mission, a high priority for rebuilding as soon as possible
Hotel Californian was described as “swaying sickeningly back and forth.”
Introducing Casa Giogia, one of eight exclusive homes in the award-winning Bella Vita community. Masterfully built and designed by Cearnal Architects in 2003, and embodying the quintessential Santa Barbara Spanish style, Bella Vita earned the AIA Vernacular Award for its emphasis on locality and tradition. Freshly renovated with high-quality finishes, this spacious home provides impeccable detail and a classic style. Archways lead to the great room, showcasing romantic views of the Riviera. The kitchen and dining room seamlessly flow to the large outdoor patio, making entertaining and al fresco dining a delight. Enjoy the perfect Santa Barbara weather in the private backyard, equipped for pets, kids, or just relaxation. The oversized, private 2-car garage offers additional storage space. But leave the cars in the garage and enjoy a quick jaunt to downtown, with the Theatre District and some of Santa Barbara's best dining just a few blocks away.
805.680.3826
HOME IS OUR FAVORITE DESTINATION
5220 CORUNA CT, SANTA BARBARA, CALIF. 93111 | OPEN HOUSE, SUNDAY 6/30, 2:00-4:00 4 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 2121± SQUARE FEET | OFFERED AT $1,695,000
Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac with stunning mountain views and easy bike path access, this is the home you have been waiting for!
With soaring ceilings and bright, airy spaces spread over a generous 2,121 square feet, this 4BR/3BA, split-level home offers ample space for living and entertaining. Entering under high ceilings, the living room centers on a cozy fireplace and mountain views.
The spacious kitchen offers updated cabinetry and countertops that flow to the dining area. A slider opens to the large yard with mountain views, gardens, fruit trees and room to play. The primary suite has vaulted ceilings, sunny windows and an updated ensuite bathroom. A spacious, enclosed loft offers flexible uses. There are three additional bedrooms, one with ensuite bath, and a hall bath.
Enjoy easy access to More Mesa, Goleta Beach, UCSB, Magnolia Center and Lane Farms.
M. GAMBERDELLA
Your Mesa Realtors
1427 Kenwood Road
2bed/2bath (easy modification to a 3 bedroom) single-level home with mountain and city views. Enjoy the with vaulted ceilings, an updated kitchen, living room fireplace, and dual-pane windows/sliders. The features a stainless steel Viking stove and dishwasher. The second bedroom is over-sized, as it was previously
Offered at $7,995,000 1553
privacy on this fabulous Montecito estate. Resting at the property is a charming Craftsman style home circa 1912. Today, it modern amenities, and still charm. Located in MUS.
Located between the Mesa and Hope Ranch this oneof-a-kind ocean view property offers a rare chance to acquire and renovate one of the last properties on the prestigious “Sea Cliff’’ cul-de-sac that has not already been purchased or redeveloped. With neighboring homes valued in the eight-figures, an investment here not only secures an exclusive address but promises long-term appreciation in a community of luxury real
OFFERED AT $998,500 329
Rare ocean front estate on the Mesa! This spectacular 4bed/4.5bath ultra-luxury property boasts ~5,100+ sq. ft. of living space resting on over 1/2 acre of prime California coastline. Enjoy unparalleled ocean views from every corner of this contemporary home. Must see in person!
estate. This sought-after street is comprised of just 9 other residences, enhancing its privacy and exclusivity. Resting on a generous 1.28 acre parcel, the existing 1,819 sq. ft. 3-bedroom home commands breathtaking 180-degree views that stretch from the Santa Ynez Mountains, across Eling’s Park, over the Douglas Preserve, to the stunning Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands.
The spacious backyard features a large deck and natural landscaping. This backyard is ready to be transparadise. There is plenty of room for lawn, fruit trees, jungle-gym, trampoline, and more. Towering over a gorgeous oak tree providing wonderful shade over the deck. This home is located on a very quiet, tucked away cul-de-sac at the end of Kenwood Road. Attached 2-car garage with interior access.
1/2 acre ocean front lot! This is a once in a life time opportunity to purchase a vacant piece of ocean front property located in one of Santa Barbara’s most desirable neighborhoods. Build your dream home to the exact specifications that you desire. Panoramic ocean views! The Richardson Team
Mike and Kyle Richardson
Mike and Kyle Richardson
www.sbrealtor.com DRE Lic. #00635254 + #01902531
Environmental Defense Center Honors
Hillary Hauser
On June 9 at its annual Green & Blue fundraiser, the Environmental Defense Center (EDC) celebrated its accomplishments over the past year and honored Heal the Ocean Cofounder and Executive Director Hillary Hauser. The annual event drew nearly 600 supporters, including many nonprofit and community leaders, who enjoyed an extended reception and a program on the scenic grounds of Rancho La Patera.
Executive Director Alex Katz, who took the helm a year ago, shared with guests highlights of EDC’s recent victories, noting that the “scrappy” nonprofit continues to go up against some of the country’s most powerful entities.
Katz pointed to the monumental victory against ExxonMobil’s attempts to truck vast amounts of oil through this community. He noted that trucking would not only have been dangerous because oil trucks “tend to crash and catch fire way too often,” but also because it would have helped Exxon restart the three platforms, pipelines, and the Las Flores Canyon processing plant. In February, Exxon dismissed its case and later sold its three platforms, pipelines, and the processing plant to Sable Offshore.
There was also the preservation of 4,000 acres of historic ranch land in Santa Ynez Valley. Another victory was a settlement to help Southern California steelhead make a comeback in local rivers by requiring more water to flow from the Twitchell Dam.
Chief Counsel Linda Krop presented Hauser with the Environmental Hero Award, noting her many talents and accomplishments as a writer, photographer, diver, environmental activist, and classical pianist. In 1998, Hauser cofounded Heal the Ocean (HTO), which immediately focused on the impacts of septic and sewage systems on the ocean, creeks, bays, and beaches. She has served as HTO’s executive director since its inception, though recently she announced she will step down from that position, while staying on as board president.
Krop praised Hauser for numerous initiatives on which EDC has partnered and pointed to some of her other major accomplishments, including the Rincon Septic-to-Sewer project; conducting the first-ever survey of wastewater
going into the ocean off California; developing a Styrofoam recycling program; and providing key support to pass SB 44, which established funding to plug and cap leaking oil wells off Summerland and create an inventory of all leaking wells offshore in California.
“Today we recognize Hillary for her leadership, vision, and incredible effectiveness in advancing solutions to address water pollution and protect public health. She is like the Ghostbusters when there’s a pollution threat, who are you going to call? Hillary!”
In an interview, Katz shared some of EDC’s current work. On the oil front, Sable Offshore is trying to restart Exxon’s whole operation. EDC is opposing the restart, which would involve the same pipeline that caused the tragic 2015 Refugio spill. In addition to the risk of another spill, Katz noted, the restart would constitute a huge step backward on fossilfuel emissions because when it was operating, the Las Flores facility was the largest source of greenhouse gases in the county. Thus, EDC is working to stop Sable from obtaining the approvals it needs at the county, state, and federal level.
Protecting the Naples coast, which EDC has been working on for 25 years, is another priority. Presently, EDC is opposing coastal bluff development in an area home to white-tailed kites and other rare species.
Another matter is the possible injection of toxic wastewater by oil companies near the Cat Canyon Aquifer, which provides drinking water for North County residents and water for agricultural operations. EDC is opposing oil operators’ efforts to obtain an exemption from the federal Safe Drinking Water Act that would enable this wastewater injection. EDC is engaged in advocacy work and is managing legal strategies. The injection threatens to contaminate drinking water for more than 150,000 residents. This is an environmental justice issue, Katz related, since it would disproportionately impact lower income and minority communities who live near the oil fields.
EDC is an environmental nonprofit that provides legal counsel, primarily to other nonprofits, and does advocacy and educational work. It has represented more than 140 community organizations.
SOCIETY MATTERS Text and photos by Gail Arnold
Honoree Heal the Ocean Cofounder and Executive Director Hillary Hauser, EDC Executive Director Alex Katz, and EDC Chief Counsel Linda Krop
Staff Attorney Rachel Kondor, Senior Analyst-Watershed Program Director Brian Trautwein, and Deputy Chief Counsel Maggie Hall
Board President Rob Tadlock and Assistant Director Betsy Weber
Former executive director David Landecker, founding executive director and founding general counsel Marc McGinnes, and former board president Judy Pirkowitsch
Lisa Stratton, Boardmember Vijaya Jammalamadaka, former board president Peter Schuyler, and Board Treasurer David Powdrell
Striking modern jewel located in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. This chic contemporary residence sits atop a picturesque 20 acre parcel. The site is blessed with breathtaking classic California views, and a rare combination of privacy and convenience. Ideally located within the gated community of Jonata Springs Ranch, the property possesses peace, quiet, and serenity while being mere minutes from the conveniences of Highway 101. Inside the home, sleek spaces, high ceilings and clean lines are formed by a mix of concrete, glass, and steel to create a modern, yet comfortable aesthetic. Living areas and bedrooms all possess abundant natural light and are situated within the floorplan to take advantage of the stunning views to the east. The property can be purchased fully furnished.
OPEN HOUSES
Goleta
410 Camino Del. Remedio Unit F, 0BD, 1BA, Sat 2-4, $507,000, Village Properties, Marcos Lazaro 805-6379121, DRE#01770439
7636 Hollister Avenue #259, 2BD, 2BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $860,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Gabriela Huson / Gabie Hart 805-280-1805 / 805-696-0142, DRE#02228333 / #02157881
340 N. Fairview #2, 3BD, 2BA, Sat & Sun 12-3, $899,000, Village Properties, Curtis Swan 805 6079709, DRE#02049218
530 Dalton Way, 4BD, 3BA, Sat 1-3, $1,499,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Sue Irwin 805-705-6973, DRE#01413354
6079 La Goleta Road, 7BD, 4BA & 2PBA, Sun 1-4, $1,599,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Marco Farrell 805-455-5362, DRE#01330554
5220 Coruna Ct, 4BD, 3BA, Sun 2-4, $1,695,000, Village Properties, Nicole Powers 925-548-1305, DRE#02185632
435 Pacific Oaks Road, 5BD, 3BA, Sat 10-3 & Sun 1-3, $1,895,000, Village Properties, Gabe Grandcolas / Spencer Cole / Justin Corrado 805-450-4723 / 805-689-6673 / 805-451-9969, DRE#02136492 / #02115510 / #01356799
San Roque
3512 Madrona Dr, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sat 1-3 & Sun 1-4, $2,099,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Lyndsey Jones / Ty Whelehan 805-680-2856 / 805-4710993, DRE#02125898 / #01846603
3325 Madrona Dr, 3BD, 3BA, Sun 2-4, $2,295,000, Sun Coast Real Estate, Kathryn Sweeney 805-3314100, DRE#01045078
The Mesa
922 Fellowship Road, 4BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 2-4, $2,495,000, Village Properties, Scott Tisdale 805-7228582, DRE#01729503
1103 Harbor Hills Driver, 4BD, 3.5BA, Sat 10-1, $8,950,000, Santa Barbara Brokers, Troy G Hoidal 805689-6808, DRE#01904812
Hope Ranch
1263 Las Palmas Drive, 4BD, 3.5BA, Sun 2-4, $4,995,000, Coast and Valley Properties, Monica Lenches 805-689-1300, DRE#01081461
Saturday 6/29 & Sunday 6/30
Mission Canyon
1510 Mission Canyon, 3BD, 3BA, Sat 1-4, $1,888,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Thomas Schultheis 805729-2802, DRE#01847740
The Riviera
1804-1810 Grand Avenue 2, 4BD, 4BA, Sun 1-4, $2,600,000, Village Properties, Ryan Kell 805-220-0848, DRE#02224217
1568 Franiceschi Road, 4BD, 3.5BA, Sun 1-3, $5,595,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Maureen McDermut 805-570-5545, DRE#01175027
Santa Barbara
333 Old Mill Road #241, 2BD, 1.5BA, Sat 12-3, $389,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Kalia Rork
15 W. Arrellaga Street #1, 2BD, 2BA, Sat 10-12 & Sun 11-1, $1,289,000, Village Properties, Stephanie Orani / Jill Agonias 805-755-8283 / 805-895-9902, DRE#02180493 / #02150975
2737 Miradero Drive, 3BD, 2BA, Sun 1-3, $1,345,000, Santa Barbara Sunshine Properties, Nicole Dinkelacker 805-570-8444, DRE#01353415
1710 Cliff Drive, 3BD, 1BA, Sun 1-4, $1,499,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Sunnie Maxwell 805-252-9524, DRE#01463861
725 Dos Hermanos Rd, 3BD, 2BA, Sun 12-3, $1,549,000, EXP Realty of California Inc., Jonathan Gilkeson 805-335-4749, DRE#01898328
3736 State Street #217, 2BD, 2BA, Sun 12-3, $1,750,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Yolanda Van Wingerden 805-570-4965, DRE#01308141
5243 San Simeon Dr, 3BD, 2 + ADU, Sun 1-4, $1,799,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Anthony Bordin 805-7290527, DRE#00974047
3973 Maricopa Dr, 4BD, 3BA, Sat 1-4 & Sun 12-3, $1,950,000, Village Properties, Jena Harris / Laurie Just 805-331-3583 / 805-452-9436, DRE#01930435 / #02160245
533 Conejo, 3BD, 3.5BA, Sat 2-4 & Sun 1-4, $2,097,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Katya Sheets 805-7082323, DRE#02061444
116 W Los Olivos, 4BD, 3 + ADU, Sat & Sun 1-4, $2,195,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Ty Whelehan / Georgette Owens 805-471-0993 / 805-5706138, DRE#02197732 / #02172408
1011 Rinconada Rd #G, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $2,500,000, Village Properties, David M. Kim / Devin Wong 805-296-0662 / 805-451-6157, DRE#01813897 / #01976444
3956 Foothill Rd, 4BD, 4BA, Sun 2-4, $3,395,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Jasper Rhodes 805-708-8136, DRE#02220808
1401 La Cima Road, 5BD, 3.5BA, Sun 2-5, $3,478,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Scott McCosker 805-451-1721, DRE#00494253
936 Camino del Retiro, 6BD, 4BA, Sat 2-4, $3,595,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Karina Matic 805-6807701, DRE#01726170
1234 Plaza Del Monte, 4BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $3,995,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Charlie Bogue / Easter Team Realtors 805-837-4213 / 805-455-6295, DRE#01803038 / #01858581
3029 Sea Cliff, 3BD, 2BA, Sun 1-4, $6,495,000, Richardson Real Estate Services, Inc., Kyle Richardson 805680-3131, DRE#01902531
865 Cocopah Dr, 6BD, 2BA, Sat 11-4 & Sun 12-4, TBD, Village Properties, Jill Agonias / Nicole Powers / James Sanchez / Cara Gamberdella 805-895-9902 / 925-548-1305 / 805-448-1148 / 805-680-3826, DRE#02150975 / #02185632 / #02003319 / #01766267
Montecito
1930 N. Jameson #A, 3BD, 2BA, Sun 1-4, $1,450,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Joe Parker 805-8865735, DRE#01314939
920 Chelham Way, 3BD, 2BA, Sun 12-3, $2,395,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Easter Team Realtors 805-455-6294, DRE#01858581
380 Sheffield Dr, 2BD, 2BA, Sun 1-4, $3,995,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Bruce Fisher 805 570-1679, DRE#00879404
2775 Sycamore Canyon Road, 4BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 10-1, $6,299,000, Village Properties, Jenna Galkin 805-895-7752, DRE#01359956
1530 Miramar, 3BD, 3 + GH, Sat & Sun 1-3, $6,750,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Rose Lizardi / Karina Matic 805-879-8007 / 805-6807701, DRE#02107492 / #01726170
615 Hot Springs Road, 6BD, 7BA, Sun 1-4, $12,295,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Emily Gaul 949-6976720, DRE#02117773
Carpinteria
1281-2 Franciscan Court, 3BD, 2BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $875,000, Village Properties, Ryan Kell / Jena Harris 805-220-0848 / 805-331-3683, DRE#02224217 / #01930435
3375 Foothill Road #634, 2BD, 2BA, Sun 12-2, $1,249,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Sharon Jordano 805280-2055, DRE#02195847
Santa Ynez Valley
531 Willow Lane, 5BD, 4BA, Sat 12-3, $1,275,000, Village Properties, Vince Caballero 213-219-2490, DRE#02234441
2620 Janin Way, 5BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 1-3, $1,975,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Kelly Mahan Herrick / Bill Coker 805-208-1451 / 805689-7415, DRE#01974836 / #00825468
1729 Cottonwood Ln, 4BD, 4BA, Sun 2-4, $2,495,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Cole Robbins 805-4037735, DRE#01910827
938 Nysted Dr, 5BD, 4BA, Sat 11-1 & Sun 1-3, $2,650,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Cammy Pinoli / Daulton Wolf 805-452-9725 / 805-757-6797, DRE#02074002 / #02202805
Ojai
11100 Sulphur Mountain Road, 6BD, 6BA, Sun 10-2, $9,250,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Sonya Frisina 213-369-5946, DRE#02125662
Realtors: submit your open house listings at INDEPENDENT.COM/ OPENHOUSESUBMISSIONS
$25 PER LISTING OR FREE FOR INDEPENDENT ADVERTISERS
Email: openhouses@independent.com with questions
Experience the epitome of Santa Barbara living in this freshly updated, spacious 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome. This turn-key home is adorned with two upstairs ensuite bedrooms and boasts all new appliances, including an in-unit washer and dryer. Enjoy the convenience of an assigned covered parking spot with storage, plus plenty of additional parking for guests. Centrally located between Uptown and Downtown, this home places you within close proximity to shopping, parks, dining, and the medical district. Indulge in local favorites like Handlebar Coffee, Trader Joe’s, and MacKenzie Park. Don’t miss this opportunity to embrace a vibrant lifestyle in the desirable Peabody Charter School district.
OFFERED AT $999,900 | 132WALAMARAVEUNIT5.COM | OPEN SATURDAY FROM 12-3 PM
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Power Grid
Renewables are the fastest-growing form of power generation. Moreover, they are the only source of power keeping pace with the expanding demand for electricity as we adopt electric vehicles (EVs) and all-electric buildings. The disconnect that the experts worry about falls on the grid due to the wild fluctuations between supply and demand. Despite ongoing repairs and upgrades, there has been virtually
no grid expansion of capacity over the past decades. Change is coming rapidly, however.
Technology is transforming the large batteries in EVs, trucks, and buses into versatile assets. These components are beginning to store excess renewable electricity and make it available for demand spikes. Millions of EVs can be thought of as a huge energy system that can be connected to another huge energy system, the electrical
grid. There has been talk about this for years, but we are now seeing tangible results.
In part because of the war in Ukraine and the resulting boycott of natural gas from Russia, Europe is moving rapidly to create microgrids that combine renewable generation with large battery storage and bidirectional flows for large numbers of EVs. Utrecht in the Netherlands is considered the largest bidirectional city. One of their projects is a parking facility, covered by 2,100 solar panels that provide power to 450 bidirectional charging stations and next-door buildings. The city is planning for 10,000 bidirectional EVs, 10 percent of their total.
There are many advantages to this combination beyond the free parking that bidirectional cars receive when plugged in. By connecting EVs to the grid, utilities need less reserve capacity on hand for peak periods. Utility costs are reduced, and car owners can save up to 50 percent on electric bills. For energy purveyors, the price of electricity changes from minute to minute as supply and demand surge or ebb. Those managing bidirectional systems buy power when solar and wind power are abundant
an old business strategy buy low, sell high.
Ford, GM, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Renault are currently selling EVs with twoway charging software. All EV manufacturers are planning bidirectional cars by 2026. To underline the potency of this approach, California has 70 gigawatts of storage in all the EVs on our roads. In comparison, the total battery storage in all our homes and buildings is only 2-3 gigawatts.
When EV stored power is given back to buildings or the grid, the amount is small and limited by the bidirectional software, or by the decision of the EV owner. Typically, the giveback is equivalent to 10 miles, while keeping enough stored for at least an 80-mile range. However, many EVs giving back, each one only a little, adds up to damping supply and demand swings and big savings to customers and utilities. This approach is also an important tool in countering climate change.
Dennis Allen is chair of Allen Construction, an employeeowned company committed to building and operating sustainably. He is also former chair of the Dean’s Council at the Bren School of Environmental
by Dennis Allen
Discover this stunning and spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom condo in the highly sought-after Forte Ranch community of Santa Barbara. This impeccably maintained single-level home boasts beautiful laminate floors, a tiled kitchen and bathrooms, a cozy fireplace, and ceiling fans for added comfort. Enjoy the elegance of plantation shutters and the tranquility of a private outdoor patio with serene views of lush greenery, palm, and olive trees. The condo includes an attached two-car garage and an additional storage area for your convenience. The complex offers resort-style amenities, including a luxurious pool area and spa, perfect for relaxation.
805TITLE OPENS OFFICE IN SANTA BARBARA
Premier title company 805title has expanded to downtown Santa Barbara with the opening of a new office on State Street.
805title offers fast and accurate title insurance for consumers, realtors, lenders and attorneys. It’s the only independent title agency in Santa Barbara County, and provides personalized and customer-centric service.
The agency’s new office gives 805title a physical foothold in the Santa Barbara region, allowing it to reach local customers more directly. The company also has offices in Westlake Village and provides title services throughout the state.
“We’re excited to be a part of the Santa Barbara community,” said founder and CEO Sergio Gonzalez. “We look forward to becoming a go-to resource for title insurance services.”
805title is known for accurate, thorough, and efficient service that helps professionals working
in real estate and law build their businesses and protect their clients. The company’s expert team understands that an incomplete title report can hurt clients such as homebuyers financially and sour their relationship with other parties involved in a transaction. Title insurance provides protection and reassurance.
Gonzalez and co-founder Galen Callahan launched 805title in 2022 after recognizing a need in the 805 community for a title company that could offer a high level of experience in title and escrow, and that had a background in real estate sales. Both founders previously worked for decades in various aspects of the real estate industry, including lending, digital marketing, and as real estate brokers and entrepreneurs.
805title is located at 1117 State Street. Visit 805title.com, email hello@805title.com or call 805-568-6006.
REALTORS®: Share your industry info in “REAL ESTATE SCOOP.” Email sarah@independent.com for details.
805title Founder and CEO Sergio Gonzalez
Debbie Rehr
Santa Barbara Hacienda with Picturesque Valley Views
Bursting with character, this mountain retreat offers quintessential Spanish architecture, vintage themed botanic gardens blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Hot tub & waterfall pool create an oasis, all presiding over the most spectacular panoramic mountain views over the Santa Ynez Valley. Built by esteemed architects Griffin and Crane, this classic home is positioned for maximum privacy on over 10 picturesque acres. Tastefully updated over the years to retain the original character of both the home & gardens, this secluded oasis celebrates mountain and lake views from both levels, opening up to small patios, terraces, lawns & multiple garden areas with raised vegetable beds & fruit trees. Exceptionally versatile floorplan presents dual living opportunities with each level offering its own living/dining rooms, outdoor entertaining areas, and bedrooms. Time slows down here and allows a peaceful tranquility to mesmerize the senses. This unique and very special property awaits your arrival.
