Santa Barbara News-Press: July 11, 2023

Bank failure

s taying cool

nEWs-PRE ss EXCLU siVE

Attempted murder suspect back in court today

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS COUNTY EDITOR

The man charged with attempted murder for allegedly stabbing a homeless man in the neck in downtown Santa Barbara in January will return to court today for … well, it depends.

It could be to set a date for his preliminary hearing. Or, it could be to consider a defense motion to suspend the case while the defendant is evaluated to determine whether he qualifies for pretrial mental health diversion.

The defendant, Mitchell Grant Grote, 27, last appeared in court on June 6, but the case was continued until today after his attorney said he wanted to look into filing a possible mental health diversion petition, Senior Deputy District Attorney Kevin Weichbrod told the News-Press.

“As of now, defense has not filed a petition” for pretrial mental health diversion, the prosecutor said at the time. “The case was continued for preliminary hearing setting to 7/11/23.

“Defense is still gathering records to consider a possible mental health diversion petition. The judge will decide the petition, if filed, on its merits. If it is not filed, we will likely set a preliminary hearing.”

According to state statute, a judge may grant a defense motion for pretrial mental health diversion if a defendant meets the eligibility requirements and is suitable for that diversion.

connection with the stabbing two days before. He remains in custody on more than $1 million bail.

Prosecutors charged him with two felony counts: attempted murder and assault with personal use of a deadly weapon.

Mr. Grote “did unlawfully and with malice aforethought attempt to murder a human being,” prosecutors said. They identified the injured man as W. Vankoppen. They charged the defendant’s alleged offenses were serious and violent felonies, and that his actions were “willful, deliberate and premeditated.”

The charges carry with them special allegations of use of a deadly weapon, a knife, and causing great bodily injury. Prosecutors also listed aggravating factors, one of which says Mr. Grote’s alleged actions disclosed a “high degree of cruelty, viciousness or callousness.”

Santa Barbara police arrested him Jan. 29 after responding earlier in the day to calls reporting an injured and bleeding man near Anacapa and De La Guerra streets.

They located the victim, who they described as a middle-aged homeless man. He was suffering from a stab wound to the neck and was quickly transported to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital by medics.

By DAVE MASON NEWS-PRESS MANAGING EDITOR

Enjoy being outside today.

The heat wave will ramp up on Wednesday.

That’s according to the National Weather Service.

So far, the Pacific Coast has benefitted from the ocean breeze during the summer’s first heat wave. On Monday, highs were 74 in Goleta and 78 in Santa Barbara. Up north, Santa Maria saw a high of 73. As you’d expect, things were hotter farther inland. Santa Ynez experienced a high of 86, according to the weather service.

Expect another comfortable day today. The weather service predicts sunshine with highs of 74 at UCSB, 77 in Santa Barbara, 72 in Lompoc and 75 in Santa Maria. Again, things will be warmer in Santa Ynez, which is expected to reach a high of 89. But that’s not the worst spot in the county.

The weather service predicts Cuyama will experience a high of 99 degrees.

Then comes Wednesday.

That’s when the weather service is forecasting a high of 80 in Santa Barbara. A high of 82 is expected Thursday through Saturday, a high of 81 on Sunday and a high of 78 on Monday.

The weather will be more comfortable at UCSB, with highs in the mid to upper 70s today through July 17. Lompoc will see similar temperatures.

One of the most intense parts of the heat wave will happen in

Please see HEAT on A4

First, a qualified mental health expert would have to determine that the defendant had been diagnosed or treated for a qualifying mental disorder within the last five years and that he satisfies the eligibility requirements for pretrial diversion.

Second, the mental health expert would have to state that his symptoms caused, contributed to, or motivated the alleged criminal behavior and that he would respond to mental health treatment.

Mr. Grote pleaded not guilty at his Jan. 31 arraignment in

Patrol officers began their investigation, and detectives were called in to assist. Officers from the Community Action Team were able to assist and advance the investigation rapidly due to their relationships with people in the Santa Barbara community who are suffering from homelessness. With information provided by community members, C.A.T. Officers identified Mr. Grote as a suspect, and probable cause was developed to make an arrest, police said.

He was found later on Milpas Street and arrested on suspicion of attempted homicide.

email: nhartsteinnewspress@ gmail.com

nEWs-PRE ss EXCLU siVE

Defendant in electronic peeping case scheduled to return to court

Justin Asinobi’s lawyer plans to file for pretrial mental health diversion

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS COUNTY EDITOR

The defendant charged with 26 counts of unlawful electronic peeping is scheduled to return to court later this month for consideration of a probable defense motion to suspend the case and evaluate him for alleged mental health problems.

On May 3, Deputy District

Attorney Dalia Granados told the News-Press that Justin Asinobi’s lawyer had announced an intention to file a petition for pretrial mental health diversion. She said both sides had been talking about possible resolutions to the case, but that criminal proceedings against the defendant were halted because of the pending motion.

Please see

Santa Barbara County residents enjoy being outside before heat wave becomes more intense

DAVE MASON / NEWS-PRESS PHOTOS

A visitor enjoys the cooler conditions Monday at Goleta Beach.

Above, people of various ages enjoy relaxing at Goleta Beach. Below, these were among the people fishing from the shore.

Oversight lawmakers continue to dig into SVP bank failure

By CASEY HARPER THE CENTER SQUARE

(The Center Square) – The House Oversight lawmakers tasked with finding out why Silicon Valley Bank failed earlier this year and threatened the health of the entire economy are pushing deeper in their investigation.

The investigation continues after lawmakers said earlier this year there is evidence that the San Francisco Federal Reserve Board knew of Silicon Valley Bank’s woes since 2021 but did little about it.

“SF Fed appears to have failed to adequately supervise SVB and respond to the bank’s mismanagement, ultimately leading to SVB’s seizure by federal regulators – the second largest bank failure in U.S. history – and threatening a panic in our banking system,” House Oversight Republicans, led by Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., said in a letter to to the president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco earlier this year.

Rep. Comer, R-Ky., and Subcommittee on Health Care and Financial Services Chairwoman Lisa McClain, R-Mich., sent a letter to the SF Fed on Monday demanding more information, arguing the board has not adequately responded to information requests.

The lawmakers said the SF Fed was not doing enough to cooperate with the investigation, only providing publicly available data and not directly responding to the needs of requests.

“Due to our concerns with the inadequacy of the SF Fed’s response, on May 25, 2023, Committee staff held a call with SF Fed staff,”

the letter said. “During that call, the SF Fed informed Committee staff that upon receipt of our letter, the SF Fed immediately contacted your staff, who informed them that the Fed Board was asserting privilege over a majority of the requested materials as confidential supervisory information (CSI), and that the SF Fed would not be able to provide any more information to the Committee.”

The lawmakers say the SF Fed later agreed to hand over nonpublic documents but has since not been responsive to the committee’s requests. The SF Fed declined to comment.

More electric school buses on the way in California with $150 million in grants

By RIA ROEBUCK JOSEPH

THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) - The California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the California Energy Commission (CEC), are collaborating to transition school districts from diesel dependent school buses to green energy alternatives.

The initiative is a partnership to use $150 million in the state budget to award funding to public school districts who apply to the program in an effort to transition to zero emissions bus technology.

The California Hybrid and ZeroEmission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP) funds vouchers for the purchase of zero emissions trucks and buses and has a Public School Bus Set-aside Program specifically to replace old school buses with new electric ones.

The CEC’s Energy Infrastructure Incentives for Zero-Emission Commercial

The California Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP) funds vouchers for the purchase of zero emissions trucks and buses and has a Public School Bus Set-aside Program specifically to replace old school buses with new electric ones.

Vehicles Project (EnergIIZE) will fund charging stations for those buses.

This year’s successful awardees can receive $495,000 per bus i.e. $395,000 for the vehicle and $100,000 for a charging station.

“California schools have already replaced hundreds of old polluting school buses with new zero-emission models – protecting thousands of kids from harmful diesel pollution,” Gov. Newsom pointed out.

In 2022, 81 school districts used the state-supported program to

TRAFFIC, CRIME AND FIRE BLOTTER

Lompoc police finds gunshot victim

LOMPOC — The Lompoc Police Department received a call early Monday regarding a male subject lying on the ground who was believed to have been shot.

Upon officers’ arrival in the 100 block of Nirg Street, they located a male subject with a gunshot wound. The subject was immediately tended to by medical personnel and transported to a local hospital due to his injury, police said.

The Lompoc Police Detective Bureau responded to the scene and took over the investigation. The shooting is still under investigation.

The current condition of the subject who was taken to the hospital is still unknown. Anyone with information regarding the shooting is encouraged to call the police department.

— Neil Hartstein

Police investigate deadly shooting

SANTA MARIA — Santa Maria Police Department detectives are still actively investigating a deadly shooting Friday in which a 14-year-old Lompoc youth was killed and a Guadalupe man was wounded, police said Monday.

“Based on the preliminary investigation, this incident is believed to be gang-related in nature,” Lt. Daniel Rios said.

Investigators have also learned that in mid-June, the 14year-old victim was treated for a non-life-threatening gunshot wound related to an incident in Lompoc, Lt. Rios said.

“The Santa Maria Police Department and the Lompoc Police Department are collaborating on this investigation,” he said. “Currently it is unknown if the Lompoc incident in June and this case are connected.”

The 21-year-old Guadalupe man who sustained non-lifethreatening gunshot wound injuries in the shooting Friday is expected to fully recover from his injuries.

Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Detective Hesch at 805-928-3781, ext. 1349, or the Communications Center at 805-928–3781, ext. 2277.

Information may be left anonymously at these numbers or online via the SMPD Anonymous Tip Line at: cityofsantamaria.org/city-government/departments/policeservices/programs-services/anonymous-tipline-to-police.

The incident occurred at about 10 p.m. Friday while officers were in the 1300 block of South Bradley Road, checking on an extremely large gathering of vehicles and persons in a nearby parking lot.

While in the area, officers heard gunshots fired from within the large crowd. Officers moved toward the gunfire and located the two gunshot wound victims in the crowd. A confrontation was believed to have preceded the shooting. Detectives and Crime Lab personnel responded to the scene. Detectives believe numerous witnesses who were in the area left without police contact and need to be interviewed.

“The Santa Maria Police Department would like to thank members of the public that have come forward with information related to this case,” Lt. Rios said. “We encourage others with information to please do the same.”

— Neil Hartstein

purchase over 300 ZEV buses.

California has ordered 1200 buses to further increase the state’s zero-emission school buses from 560 to around 1800.

So far California has spent $1.2 billion to replace diesel operated buses.

Gov. Newsom is pleased with the progress. “We’re getting more kids on clean school buses while paving the way for the rest of the country to follow our lead,” he said.

Over the next five years, the state expects to spend an

additional $1.8 billion on green energy school buses and the infrastructure to support them.

The funding is part of the California Climate Commitment, with $10 billion in funding for ZEV transitions motivated by Gov. Newsom’s efforts to achieve netzero carbon pollution by 2045.

Applications are on a first come, first served basis and are being accepted through Sept. 29, 2023. Incentives are applied at point-of-sale for the purchase of eligible vehicles at participating dealerships.

San Francisco settles racial discrimination lawsuit for $300,000

By LEONARD ROBINSON

THE CENTER SQUARE

(The Center Square) – San Francisco has settled a two-yearold lawsuit alleging continued discrimination for about $306,250

The settlement awarded the funds to three of the eight Black employees who initially filed the suit on April 20, 2021. The lawsuit alleges that the city’s Department of Health routinely participated in racial discrimination while also providing a hostile work environment, disparate treatment, retaliation, age discrimination, harassment and improper treatment of a whistleblower.

Cheryl Thornton, a principal clerk at the time of the lawsuit, was granted $100,000. Ms. Thornton alleges that she was passed over for promotions for lesser-qualified candidates on three occasions, denied training opportunities and adequate performance evaluations and forced to endure unsafe working conditions during the coronavirus pandemic while being denied telecommuting privileges.

Darlene Daevu, a former coordinator, was granted $90,000 from the settlement. Ms. Daevu alleges that she was unfairly denied a promotion for a lesser-qualified candidate and was granted additional responsibilities without increased pay. Ms. Daevu, who holds a M.B.A. and a project management certificate, has applied for more than 200 jobs with the City of San Francisco, has been on seven eligibility lists and has high proficiency scores.

Dellfina Hardy, a licensed vocational nurse, was granted $116,250 from the settlement. Ms. Hardy alleges that her direct supervisor was demeaning to her in interpersonal and workplace

The lawsuit alleges that the city’s Department of Health routinely participated in racial discrimination while also providing a hostile work environment, disparate treatment, retaliation, age discrimination, harassment and improper treatment of a whistleblower.

interactions, ignored her repeated communications, created roadblocks to successful completion of her assigned tasks and unfairly denied her training and promotional opportunities. Department of Public Health officials, she alleges, ignored her complaints, launched a fraudulent and embarrassing investigation against her alleging that she was abusive, harassing and demeaning to her peers.

“The City is committed to maintaining a work environment free of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation,” Jen Kwart, spokeswoman for the San Francisco City Attorney’s office said. “We believe the proposed settlements are appropriate resolutions to these matters given the inherent cost of continued litigation.”

San Francisco Department of Public Health did not respond in time for publication. San Francisco Board of Supervisors approved the settlement payments via the consent agenda during its June 27 meeting.

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The investigation continues after lawmakers said earlier this year there is evidence that the San Francisco Federal Reserve Board knew of Silicon Valley Bank’s woes since 2021 but did little about it.

Hansen named sports performance coach at Westmont

By RON SMITH WESTMONT SPORTS WRITER

Westmont Athletic Director

Robert Ruiz has named Erik Hansen as the new sports performance coach for Westmont Athletics. He will also serve as the assistant women’s swimming coach and will teach kinesiology and physical activity courses.

“I could not be more excited about the addition of this position to our department and the impact that it will have on all of our student-athletes,” said Ruiz. “As we look to the future of Westmont Athletics, it is critical that we continue to invest in the health and well-being of our students. Bringing on a sports performance coach allows us to make important strides in the areas of injury prevention and strength development.”

“I feel honored and privileged to be here at Westmont,” said Hansen. “In institutions, there are a lot of people before us and there will be a lot of people after us. We have this window of opportunity to be good stewards with the legacy of this place. I want to help us take that opportunity in a direction that will honor people and honor God.” Hansen was a student-athlete at UCSB where he was a member of the men’s swim program and earned his bachelor’s degree in geography with a minor in exercise science. He received his master’s degree in physical education from Azusa Pacific in 2012.

As a student-athlete who endured significant pain during

his collegiate career, Hansen wants to build on that experience to foster care of student-athletes.

“I want to serve as a bridge between departments – athletic training, coaches of each sport and the kinesiology department - to facilitate our very best that we have to offer,” expressed Hansen. “I want to come alongside what is happening in each program and make sure that our athletes are getting everything that they need.”

For the last 10 years, Hansen has worked at Cate School in Carpinteria where he developed the school’s strength and conditioning program and served as the swim coach. Prior to that, he was the performance coach for the Buenaventura Swim Club and was an assistant swim coach at Ventura College.

“Erik brings a wealth of knowledge, ingenuity, and a peaceful presence that our team will greatly benefit from,” said Westmont head coach Jill Lin. “He values high quality work in the pool and the weight room to help athletes prevent injuries and train at the highest level. His background in swimming and strength and conditioning will be an incredible asset to our team.

I’m excited to collaborate with Erik and see the progress in our program with him on board.”

“I am extremely excited to work with Jill,” said Hansen. “She comes from a club program that is one of my favorites. Some of her coaches were some of my former teammates. I am excited to be able to enter and contribute to a team culture where I can be explicit with my faith – to be able to clearly

and accurately express how faith applies to the things we will be talking about.”

“His goal is to be part of a community that integrates spiritual and athletic development at the collegiate level,” said Lin.

“God opened all the doors that were needed to bring Erik on staff and I am thrilled to have someone with so much experience and so much passion joining our swimming program.”

“Westmont feels like a coming together of so many pieces of my life,” said Hansen. “I have always had a heart for college athletics and athletic departments. There is also the injury prevention piece and also the faith piece. It was through a dramatic experience in athletics that I came to Christ when I was 15, and I have been wrestling for a number of years with what it means to be a follower of Christ as an athlete. Everyone who knows me says this is the perfect place for me.”

“I am confident that Erik will have an immediate impact on our campus with our teams and athletes,” said Ruiz. “He is the perfect fit for this position and he is prepared to execute our vision for Westmont Athletics from a sports performance standpoint. I look forward to watching our programs continue to grow under the guidance and leadership of Erik Hansen.”

Ron Smith is the sports information director at Westmont College.

email: sports@newspress.com

Five UCSB women’s tennis players earn ITA Scholar-Athlete honors

By NICK MATHEY UCSB SPORTS WRITER

The UCSB women’s tennis team earned the 2023 Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) AllAcademic Team award, while five Gauchos earned ITA Scholar-Athlete accolades. The ITA announced the honors on Monday morning.

Calissa Dellabarca, Marta Gonzalez Ballbe, Amelia Honer, Shakhnoza Khatamova, and Valentina Khrebtova collected ITA Scholar-Athlete honors.

In order to be named an ITA Scholar-Athlete, a student-athlete must have a grade point average of at

least 3.5 for the 2022-23 academic year. Additionally, in order for a team to garner ITA All-Academic Team honors, a program must have a team grade point average of 3.2 or above for 2022-23.

UCSB was one of 234 Division I women’s tennis teams to receive All-Academic Team distinction, while the five individual Gauchos were among the 1,506 student-athletes recognized for their academic achievements.

Nick Mathey writes about sports for UCSB. email: sports@newspress.com

13 attorneys general urge Biden administration to end opioid mail-back program

By TOM JOYCE

THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) - Thirteen state attorneys general have a demand for the Food and Drug Administration: end the USPS opioid mail-back program.

The coalition argues that putting more drugs in the mail is dangerous and could lead to more drug deaths, not fewer.

“We all want to stop the opioid epidemic and help those who need it. Safely disposing of unused opioids is key in combatting this crisis, and the Biden Administration’s reckless plan to mail back pills is dangerous and misguided,” South Carolina

Attorney General Alan Wilson said in a press release issued by his office. “Drugs are already being trafficked through the

USPS, particularly fentanyl, and putting more pills in the system kicks the door wide open for abuse.”

In the letter, the 13 attorneys general expressed similar concerns to Mr. Wilson.

“As law enforcement officials, we must confront this challenge head-on,” the attorneys general wrote. “In doing so, we must use mitigation strategies that provide real solutions. To the greatest extent possible, these solutions should not leave room for increasing numbers of illegal opioids to be distributed on the streets and infiltrate our communities.”

The attorneys general prefer in-home disposal of opioid products that, “quickly remove unused drugs without putting anyone at risk,” according to a

press release from the office of Utah Attorney General Sean D. Reyes.

Proper education and the use of in-home disposal products can increase proper opioid removal by 92%, according to Mr. Reyes’s office. However, only 10% of patients properly dispose of unused opioid products.

The letter comes after the FDA announced in April that it would require opioid analgesics manufacturers to provide prepaid mail-back envelopes to help people discard unused prescription opioids.

Attorneys General from Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, South Carolina, and Utah signed onto the letter.

U.S. trade negotiators continue to wrestle with Mexico over GMO corn

By ZETA CROSS

SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

THE CENTER

(The Center Square) – A new tariff on GMO white corn is concerning for American farmers.

The government of Mexico announced a 50% tariff on imported white corn that is grown from genetically modified, or GMO, seed. The Office of the United States Trade Representative made it clear that the new Mexican tariff will not apply to this year’s U.S. crop but it is still a concern for Illinois farmers.

“We have [the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement], so free trade should be flowing between the U.S. and Mexico,” Matt Rush, president of Illinois Corn Growers Association, told The Center Square.

Many Illinois corn growers like Mr. Rush have genetically modified white corn plants in the ground now for the fall crop that is destined for Mexico.

“When Mexico first announced this in the middle of February, the local cash price dropped 60 cents a bushel overnight,” Mr. Rush said. “It’s rebounded a little bit. The basis is up 20 cents from where it was in February.”

Mexico and China are consistently in the top three markets for Illinois grown corn. Farmers are a little confused by the Mexican tariff announcement, Mr. Rush said. They want a resolution before they

purchase seed this fall for their 2024 crop.

“Mexico is a huge importer of our corn, and we want to keep that relationship open,” Mr. Rush said. “But we have all agreed, the U.S. and Canada and Mexico, to the USMCA, and we just need to hold them accountable for that.”

Illinois corn farmers will pivot to purchase and grow non-GMO seed for export if that is what Mexico wants, Mr. Rush said. “We can grow that, but it is just going to take us some pre-planning and a timeline that just doesn’t get sprung on us,” he said.

Farmers typically buy their seed in the fall, months before they plant in the spring. Seed companies start growing the seed two years before that, Mr. Rush said.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrado said he expects the regulation on GMO white corn to be in place by the end of the year.

Most of the white corn that Mexico buys from Illinois is for food products, like masa and tortillas. Yellow corn is for animal feed. Mexico imports both white and yellow corn from the United States.

On a call last week, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said hat he is continuing to follow the trade dispute settlement process begun earlier this year when the regulation on biotech corn was announced.

Triple digit highs expected in Cuyama

HEAT

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Santa Ynez, which is expected to have highs in the 90s, peaking at a projected 97 degrees on Friday.

It’ll be even hotter in Cuyama, where highs are expected to be in the 100s.

When things get too hot, experts recommend staying inside airconditioned buildings as much as possible and against exercising or working outdoors during the hottest periods. The San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department suggests exercising in the early morning or later evening and to take frequent breaks.

The department also recommends lightweight, lightcolored and loose-fitting clothing, as well as drinking more water than usual. The department noted it’s better to drink cool water instead of alcoholic and surgery beverages.

The health department also urges drivers to never leave people or pets in closed, parked cars.

In Santa Barbara County, residents enjoyed the more mild weather on Monday by having fun at local beaches.

email: dmason@newspress.com

Legal group puts medical schools on notice over SCOTUS affirmative action ruling

By CASEY HARPER THE CENTER SQUARE

(The Center Square) – A legal nonprofit has pledged to sue any medical school that does not comply with the U.S. Supreme Court’s latest ruling blocking raced-based admissions policies, possibly ushering in a wave of enforcement actions to set new admissions policies around the nation.

The Liberty Justice Center is the group in question, which sent a letter to medical school deans around the nation with a simple message: if you delay in compliance with the SCOTUS ruling, you’ll face a lawsuit.

The group also pushed for an end to other diversity and equity policies at schools, though it is unclear which, if any, of those policies are affected by the Supreme Court’s ruling.

“In accordance with the Supreme Court decision in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc., your medical school must immediately cease any and all policies, practices, programs, or procedures that include a racial

The legal group pointed to delays in the past where Supreme Court decisions were largely ignored for a stretch of time before another case had to be brought.

component,” the letter said.

“This includes any Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (“DEI”) policies. Consequently, to the extent your medical school fails to immediately comply with the Supreme Court’s recent decision, Liberty Justice Center will actively engage in strategic litigation to vindicate the fundamental constitutional rights of those individuals whose rights have been violated.”

The letter comes after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled last month that the race-based affirmative action admission policies at Harvard and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment. That case upends years of common practice at higher education institutions.

“University programs must comply with strict scrutiny, they may never use race as a

stereotype or negative, and – at some point – they must end,” the majority opinion said. “Respondents’ admissions systems – however well intentioned and implemented in good faith – fail each of these criteria.”

That ruling, though, brings into question how schools will comply and what specifically may need to change to adhere to the ruling. There are more than 150 U.S. medical schools across all 50 states, and it remains unclear how those schools will react to the new affirmative action ban.

The legal group pointed to delays in the past where Supreme Court decisions were largely ignored for a stretch of time before another case had to be brought.

“In an industry where merit and skill must be the most important factors when selecting the top applicants for admission, medical schools have a moral obligation

to swiftly comply with the law and remove these discriminatory practices,” Jacob Huebert, president of Liberty Justice Center, said in a statement. The majority opinion states there is an allowance for discussion of race and its impact on a student’s life in their application, furthering complicating what it will practically look like to not consider race in admissions.

“Nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise,” the majority opinion said. “But, despite the dissent’s assertion to the contrary, universities may not simply establish through application essays or other means the regime we hold unlawful today.”

Prosecutors allege man hid recording devices in homes

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The case was continued to June 21, then to June 26.

“Defense has not filed their motion yet so the judge has not ruled on mental health diversion,” Ms. Granados said at the time. “Matter was continued so defense can file the motion.”

The new court date is July 26.

“I expect the motion to be filed,” the prosecutor added. “Depending on when defense files the motion, if within time or not, I may not be able to file an opposition so the judge on 7/26/23 will allow me time to respond.”

Mr. Asinobi pleaded not guilty to the 26 charges, all misdemeanors, at his arraignment.

Prosecutors say if the case ends up going to trial and Mr. Asinobi is convicted, he could get up to six months in Santa Barbara County Jail for each count.

The defendant, 23, has been charged with unlawful electronic peeping between Oct. 1, 2021 and Feb. 15, 2022.

The complaint filed against him alleges

that he “willfully and unlawfully used a concealed camcorder, motion picture camera or photographic camera to secretly videotape, film, photograph or record by electronic means another identifiable person, or through the clothing worn by that other person, for the purpose of viewing the body or undergarments worn by that other person, without that person’s knowledge or consent.”

Prosecutors allege he hid multiple recording devices in private homes where people had a reasonable expectation of privacy.

By filing the motion for diversion, the defense is not questioning Mr. Asinobi’s legal competency to stand trial, according to prosecutors.

Rather, pretrial diversion, if approved, would examine him to see if he suffers from a specific mental health disorder, and if so, whether that disorder contributed to his committing the alleged crimes.

According to state statute, a judge may grant a defense motion for pretrial mental health diversion if he meets the eligibility requirements and is suitable for that diversion.

First, a qualified mental health expert would have to determine that a defendant that

had been diagnosed or treated for a qualifying mental disorder within the last five years and that he satisfies the eligibility requirements for pretrial diversion.

Second, the mental health expert would have to state that his symptoms caused, contributed to, or motivated the alleged criminal behavior and that he would respond to mental health treatment.

The alleged electronic peeping was initially reported in 2022, causing the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office to conduct an almost yearlong investigation into the allegations.

As a result of that investigation, the District Attorney’s Office charged Mr. Asinobi with illegal electronic peeping, alleging there were multiple victims involved.

A February 2022 warrant authorized investigators to search the hidden devices, allegedly belonging to Mr. Asinobi, in which the recordings of people in various stages of undress were located, the complaint said.

After viewing the secret recordings, law enforcement officers initially were able to identify 12 of the 26 people allegedly depicted in the recordings.

email: nhartsteinnewspress@gmail.com

DAVE MASON / NEWS-PRESS

A tree frames Goleta Beach, where a small crowd enjoyed the moderate weather Monday.

Managing Editor Dave Mason dmason@newspress.com

Life theArts

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2022

Destination remains popular with Southern Californians and other tourists

CALENDAR

Of course, Santa Barbara has its own special pier, one featured in the 1966 “Batman” movie — Stearns Wharf. (It’s the scene where Batman, played by Adam West, is trying to figure out where to safely dispose of a bomb with a lit fuse.)

Moreover, Stearns Wharf has played a big role in Santa Barbara’s tourism and history.

The News-Press, which was there on July Fourth, plans to continue its coverage of the wharf throughout this summer. Stay tuned.

Editor’s note: This is the second in a NewsPress series about day trips outside Santa Barbara County.

By DAVE MASON NEWS-PRESS MANAGING EDITOR

A large crowd walks up and down the hilly, wide, pedestrian-only road that bridges this world with the Santa Monica Pier.

It is a different world, one rooted in the family-friendly fun of the past but with touches of today’s society, expressed by open-air speeches by religious and political representatives and special dance or movement performances.

Elsewhere on the pier, Qing Zhui Wang sits on a chair outside and pours his soul into the erhu, a two-string Chinese instrument played with a bow. He plays it with skill and grace, sometimes closing his eyes as he expresses himself through his music.

The pier is also where you hear the joyful screams of people riding the roller coaster at Pacific Park and the even louder screams of kids on the Scrambler right below it. It involves speed and spinning.

Others, including couples, relish the view during the gentle turns of the Ferris wheel, officially called the Pacific Wheel.

The Santa Monica Pier continues to be a popular day trip. And for history buffs, it’s the ending point of Route 66.

Getting there is a challenge because of the traffic and parking. If you don’t plan to be at the pier beyond 8 p.m., an easy parking alternative is to park in any

of the small parking lots along Pacific Coast Highway and walk down the paved pedestrian path (right next to the paved bicycle path) to the pier.

the pier and that fact it’s open unil 2 DAY TrIPS

The walk is anywhere between 15 minutes and a half hour, and it’s actually faster than going in circles and around pedestrians and traffic to get to Lot 1, the paved lot right below the pier.

And parking is cheaper in the smaller lots, where you’ll pay a flat fee of $12 for the entire day. Lot 1, which has the advantage of being open until 2 a.m.,

The calendar appears Mondays through Saturdays in the “Life & the Arts” section. Items are welcome. Please email them a full week before the event to Managing Editor Dave Mason at dmason@newspress.com.

TODAY

9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily: The Sistine Chapel Art Exhibition runs through Sept. 4 at the Santa Barbara Mission, 2201 Laguna St., Santa Barbara. Tickets start at $25 for adults, $18 for children, and $22 for seniors, military and students. Each ticket also includes admission to the mission museum. To purchase, go to santabarbaramission.org/sistinechapel-omsb or stop at the museum’s gift shop.

COURTESY PHOTO Boogie Knights, above, will perform 1970s hits during the New Year’s Eve Disco Boogie Ball at 9 p.m. Dec. 31 at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez. And the Spazmatics will play hits from the ’80s. Tickets cost $50.

The calendar appears Mondays through Saturdays in the “Life & the Arts” section. Items are welcome. Please email them a full week before the event to Managing Editor Dave Mason at dmason@newspress.com.

Father Joe Schwab is hosting personal tours that delve into the theological and philosophical perspectives of Michelangelo’s art. Groups of 10 or more can contact Donna Reeves for a private tour at development@sboldmission.org.

The Marjorie Luke Theatre at Santa Barbara Junior High School, 721 E. Cota St., Santa Barbara. The concert is presented by Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol Road, has reopened its recurring summer exhibit, “Butterflies Alive!” Featuring a variety of butterflies, this experience allows guests to walk through a garden while nearly 1,000 butterflies flutter freely around them. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays. The exhibit, which runs through Sept. 4, is included in museum admission. Members are always admitted free. For others, prices vary from $14 to $19. For more information, visit sbnature.org/ butterfliesalive.

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The James Castle exhibit is on display at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. Admission is free from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays. For more information, see sbma.net.

JULY 12

7:30 p.m. Australian singer, songwriter and guitarist Daniel Champagne will perform at SOhO Restaurant and Music Club, 1221 State St., suite 205, Santa Barbara. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $20 in advance and $23 cash at the door. To purchase a ticket and get a dinner reservation, go to www.sohosb.com. The concert is for all ages.

JULY 13

8 p.m. Singer and pianist Jimmy Webb will perform his hits, including songs from the Glenn Campbell songbook, at the Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. He will also perform songs from his collaborations for many artists during his 50-year musical career. Tickets cost $55 to $71 for general admission. To purchase, go to lobero.org.

JULY 15

8:30 p.m. The UCSB Summer Cinema series continues at the Sunken Garden at Santa Barbara County Courthouse, 1100 Anacapa St., Santa Barbara, with Alien.” Admission is free. You can get there as early as noon to claim a space with your blankets (nothing plastic, nothing nylon, no tarps) and low-to-theground, low-back chairs.

JULY 20

8 p.m. The Jerry Douglas Band will perform its bluegrass and folk music at the Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. Tickets cost $35 and $45 for general admission and $106 for VIP tickets, which include premier seating and a pre-show reception with drinks and hors d’oeuvres. To purchase, go to lobero. org.

JULY 21

7:30 p.m. The Cowboy Junkies will perform their country music and folk rock at the Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. Tickets cost $55 and $65 for general admission and $106 for VIP tickets, which include premier seating and a preshow reception with drinks and hors d’oeuvres. To purchase, go to lobero. org.

AUG. 11

a.m.

second you get to the pier, there’s something to do. In fact, right below the pier and next to Lot 1 is the Heal the

Please see PIER on B4

8 p.m. Blake Lynch, aka Nurse Blake, will perform his healthcarerelated standup comedy at The Granada, 1214 State St., Santa Barbara. Tickets cost $48.50 to $93.50 at granadasb.org. The $195 VIP package includes perks such as a photo opportunity with Nurse Blake.

Dave Mason

—

Junior Lifeguard competition set for Friday

SANTA BARBARA — The Junior Lifeguard Fiesta Invitational Competition will return to East Beach on Friday.

The event, hosted by the Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department and the Santa Barbara Junior Lifeguards, is expected to draw a large crowd as California agencies from Newport Beach up to Santa Cruz go head to head in the annual competition.

Youth ages 7-17 will compete in several events, including Distance Paddle, Distance Run, Distance Swim, Paddle Relay, RunSwim-Run, Run Relay, Beach Flags and Taplin (swim, run, paddle).

The event will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include a variety of vendors and educational booths, including the Cal State Long Beach Shark Lab to share about sharks and beach safety and the Santa Barbara Creeks Division with activities to learn about the area’s creeks as well as microplastic pollution.

WEEKEND BOX OFFICE

The event is free and open to all California Surf Lifesaving Association and United States Lifesaving Association agencies. The public is invited to attend.

The USLA reports over 50,000 participants in junior lifeguard programs each year. According to the city of Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Junior Lifeguards program is the area’s longest-running program, operating since 1971, and serves hundreds of local youth each summer.

— From staff reports

‘Insidious: The Red Door’ opens as No. 1 film

“Insidious: The Red Door” grossed $32.7 million during its opening weekend.

By DAVE MASON NEWS-PRESS MANAGING EDITOR

“Insidious: The Red Door” opened last weekend as the No. 1 movie.

The horror film grossed $32.7 million at the North American box office.

“Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” dropped to the No. 2 spot during its second weekend with $26.5 million.

“Sound of Freedom,” the true story about a federal agent who rescues children from slavery, placed third with $18.2 million.

Jones and the Dial of Destiny” dropped to the No. 2 spot during its second weekend with $26.5 million.

“Elemental” — Disney-Pixar’s movie about a romance between a woman made of fire (Ember) and a man composed of water (Wade) — sank to fourth place from second.

The animated movie grossed $9.6. million.

Another animated film, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” swung down to fifth place from third with $8 million.

“Joy Ride,” a comedy/drama

about Asian American women who travel to China, opened in sixth place with $5.85 million

“No Hard Feelings” fell to seventh place from fourth with $5.25 million. The R-rated comedy stars Jennifer Lawrence and Andrew Barth Feldman.

“Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” dropped to eighth place from fifth with $5 million.

Disney’s live-action remake of

“The Little Mermaid,” dived to ninth place for seventh. It grossed $3.5 million.

“Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken” took a bigger dive — to 10th place from sixth. The animated film, which is about a shy adolescent girl discovering she’s from a royal family of legendary sea krakens, grossed $2.8 million.

.email: dmason@newspress.com

“Indiana

Diversions

horoscope • puzzles

Thought for Today

“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” — Les Brown

HOROSCOPE

By Horoscope.com

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

ARIES — Possible ideas for artistic projects could come to you, Aries, though some of them may be vague and not yet ready to manifest. You may seek to express your spiritual side through artistic activity, but might not quite have a handle on how to do it. Don’t force it. Find something else to do and let it sit for a while. You might be surprised by the final results.

TAURUS — A close friend or romantic partner may seem in a rather quiet mood, Taurus, and disinclined to communicate with you. You might wonder if this person is angry with you or if you’ve said or done something that wasn’t OK. It’s likely that what’s bothering your friend has more to do with work, family, or money than with you. Just make it clear that you’re there if needed.

GEMINI — The possibility of your pursuing new career opportunities, perhaps with more pay, might cause doubts and insecurities among family members, Gemini. They could be afraid that you will have less time for them. It’s important that you reassure them, as their worries might escalate if you just let it slide. Make it clear that you’re still there for them. This might alleviate their doubts and yours.

CANCER — Worries about a relative who lives far away might plague you today, Cancer. The situation isn’t helped by the fact that you may not be able to reach them by phone or email. You may have to contact mutual friends who can give you the information you need. Circumstances probably aren’t all that dire. There’s probably nothing to be overly concerned about, but you need to hear this. Keep trying.

LEO — A check you may have been expecting in the mail may be delayed, Leo, and you might not be able to contact whoever is sending it. You could worry over whether or not you will get it at all. This could be a classic case of getting worked up over nothing. The delay won’t cause any lasting problems, just inconvenience and frustration. Hang in there. The money will come.

SUDOKU

and get to know your friend better.

LIBRA — New ideas for increasing your income, particularly if they involve extra work, could suddenly seem vague and uncertain today, Libra. Doubts and insecurities could sabotage the plans you were so ready for yesterday. Don’t let this happen. Talk to others and judge what is and isn’t workable, then concentrate on the former and move ahead. You don’t want to miss some good opportunities.

SCORPIO — Romance may be very much on your mind today, Scorpio, though not necessarily in a positive way. Doubts and insecurities could take over your thoughts. Does a current or potential romantic partner share your feelings? Direct communication with the one in question could be premature, so it might be best to try to remain objective and judge the situation accordingly. Meanwhile, take it day by day.

SAGITTARIUS — Brusque words or a lack of cordiality from a friend or colleague might have you wondering if this person is angry with you, Sagittarius. Don’t let your insecurity make you crazy. This person probably just has problems of their own on their mind. Do your best not to take any stinging comments seriously. Have a little faith and show a little compassion.

CAPRICORN -- Someone could call and want to share some troubles with you, Capricorn. Your sensitivity and compassion may attract more than one unhappy person in need of sympathy and advice. While this is flattering, it could be a bit of a drag as well. You aren’t likely to turn these people away. Accept this as a natural consequence of being a good listener. And take care not to let these sad stories get to you.

AQUARIUS — Uncertainty about money could plague you today, Aquarius. You might have doubts about income now, particularly if you’re self-employed. Be careful not to make yourself crazy. Your insecurity might cause the situation to seem even more serious than it really is. Try to be objective. If there are genuine concerns - and there may not be - find a way to alleviate them rather than waste energy worrying.

INSTRUCTIONS

Fill in the grid so every row, every column and every 3-by-3 grid contains the digits 1 through 9. that means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box. Sudoku puzzles appear on the Diversions page Monday-Saturday and on the crossword solutions page in Saturday’s Life section.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

CODEWORD PUZZLE

Answers to previous CODEWORD

How to play Codeword

Monday, November16, 2015

Daily Bridge Club

VIRGO — You could suddenly experience an overwhelming wave of affection for someone you’ve just met, Virgo, perhaps a potential romantic partner. Fantasies of the future could waft in and out of your mind. This should feel wonderful in one sense, yet it could also bring up all your doubts and insecurities. Does this person feel the same way? It’s probably a bit premature to worry about that. Take it one day at a time

PISCES — A love partner may seem too quiet, Pisces. Perhaps you haven’t heard from your friend for a day or so. If you let it, this could start your doubts and insecurities, causing you to wonder if this person still cares or if they’re gone forever. Try to remain objective. Does your friend have some worries right now? That may be why they’re out of touch. Worry will only make you feel worse.

Codeword is a fun game with simple rules, and a great way to test your knowledge of the English language. Every number in the codeword grid is ‘code’ for a letter of the alphabet. Thus, the number 2 may correspond to the letter L, for instance. All puzzles come with a few letters to start. Your first move should be to enter these letters in the puzzle grid. If the letter S is in the box at the bottom of the page underneath the number 2, your first move should be to find all cells numbered 2 in the grid and enter the letter S. Cross the letter S off the list at the bottom of the grid.

Remember that at the end you should have a different letter of the alphabet in each of the numbered boxes 1- 26, and a word in English in each of the horizontal and vertical runs on the codeword grid.

DAILY BRIDGE

‘Play Bridge With Me’

By FRANK STEWART Tribune Content Agency

Tuesday July 11, 2023

PUZZLE

“Adam and Eve should have been Cajuns. They would have ignored the apple and eaten the snake.” — graffiti seen in New Orleans.

Since 1981 I’ve written a monthly column for the ACBL’s magazine. Many have been “over-my-shoulder” style. You listen in on my thoughts during a deal.

right, opens one heart. What do you say?

left, opens one heart. Your partner doubles, and the next player passes. What do you say?

Players must be aware of the temptation to draw trumps and resist it. Today’s North-South stopped at five diamonds when six would have been a good spot. (South’s third bid was ill-considered.) West led the K-A of hearts, and South ruffed and dis-resisted when he took the A-Q of trumps. When West discarded, declarer tried the A-K of clubs. East ruffed and led his last trump, and South lost two clubs to West.

Ninety of the best of these appear in “Play Bridge With Me,” my 23rd book, just published. The deals are intermediate level; the focus is on logical thinking.

ANSWER: Some players would bid 2NT, “Unusual,” to show length in both minor suits, but that bid should be based on either a weak hand suitable for a sacrifice or a huge hand. With an in-between hand such as this one, it is reasonable to overcall two diamonds, planning to bid clubs at your next turn. South dealer

ANSWER: This case is close. In theory, your 11 points are enough for a jump to two spades, inviting game, but your king of hearts, trapped in front of the opening bidder, may be worthless. Many experts would jump anyway. I would reluctantly downgrade the hand and settle for a response of one spade.

East dealer

N-S vulnerable

“Couldn’t even make four,” South shrugged.

ACE OF CLUBS

At today’s four spades, I win the first heart in dummy and lead a diamond. I can’t risk losing an early trump finesse; I need a quick pitch for my heart loser. East wins the second diamond and returns a heart, and I win to discard dummy’s last heart on my high diamond. When I finesse in trumps, East wins and exits with a trump.

South fell from grace when he took two rounds of trumps. (He could have survived one round.)

PASSED HAND

South can take the ace of clubs at Trick Three, go to the king of spades and return a club.

If East ruffs and leads a third heart — discarding is no better — South ruffs, ruffs his last low club in dummy, draws trumps and scores his K-Q of clubs and the ace of spades to fulfill the contract.

Now I must guess in clubs. But East, a passed hand, had the ace of diamonds, queen of hearts and king of spades. He won’t have the ace of clubs, so I lead to the king, making the game.

For a postpaid to U.S. copy of “Play Bridge With Me,” send $23.95 to PO Box 962, Fayette AL35555. Tell me how you’d like it inscribed. Profits donated.

Cottage Health announces robotic ultrasound treatment

NEWS-PRESS STAFF REPORT

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health

is the first Central Coast system on the California Central Coast to offer Focal One’s noninvasive Robotic High Intensity Focused Ultrasound treatment to patients with localized prostate cancer.

HIFU, an outpatient procedure, is today’s most advanced technology for precisely targeted ablation of diseased prostate tissue.

Dr. David Laub, urologist with Cottage Health, performed the first three procedures, at Cottage Outpatient Surgery Center.

Patients who undergo the HIFU outpatient surgery procedure can go home the same day. HIFU combines real-time ultrasound image guidance, magnetic resonance imaging and biopsy data in a 3D visualization.

Cottage Health noted this approach allows urologists to navigate to the tumor with a transrectal probe in real-time, directing high-speed ultrasound energy precisely at the target area and selectively ablating only the diseased portion of the prostate — eliminating the need for incisions.

Cottage Health explained in a news release that this approach ensures that patients receive effective treatment with minimal discomfort.

“For men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer, HIFU is a less invasive alternative between active surveillance, surgery and radiation,” said Dr. David Laub. “This technology allows us to precisely target cancerous tissue within the prostate, mirroring the approach of a lumpectomy where only the diseased portion of the breast is treated, rather than resorting to complete breast removal for a single lump.”

The fusion of these technologies enables urologists to establish more precise contours around the cancerous tumor than was possible in the past, according to Cottage Health. They can then ablate a smaller portion of the prostate, which lessens the damage to surrounding healthy tissue and minimizes the risk of side effects of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction for patients commonly associated with radical prostatectomy and radiation.

“The fusion of these technologies enables us to customize the procedure for each patient, ensuring the best possible outcomes,” said Dr. Scott Tobis.

“We are not only sparing healthy tissue but also protecting our patients’ quality of life.”

With HIFU, the urologist can customize the procedure for each patient and each clinical condition using highperformance ultrasound technology that allows for precise targeting and destruction of part of the prostate, sparing healthy surrounding tissue and minimizing side effects.

To learn more, visit Cottagehealth.org/ roboticHIFU. email: news@newspress.com

Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara receives four-star rating from Charity Navigator

SANTA BARBARA — The Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara has received its 11th consecutive four-star rating from nonprofit evaluator Charity Navigator.

The rating — Charity Navigator’s highest — indicates superior financial efficiency and transparency in Scholarship Foundation operations. The foundation has now received 20 four-star ratings in 21 years.

“We are truly in select company, as fewer than 5% of the charities evaluated by Charity Navigator have received 11 consecutive four-star evaluations,” noted Interim Scholarship Foundation President and CEO Mary Dwyer.

The nation’s largest independent charity evaluator, Charity Navigator assesses organizations each year on the basis of financial health, governance, ethical practices, openness and programmatic impact.

“For the entirety of our history,

Pier is known for its rides

the Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara has committed itself to the very highest standards of fiscal responsibility and accountability. This year, we scored especially high in the “Impact & Results” category, affirming that our scholarships and financial aid advisory services have a genuinely profound effect in the community. It is gratifying to receive this recognition from Charity Navigator once again,” said Ms. Dwyer.

The Scholarship Foundation of

Santa Barbara is the nation’s largest community-based provider of college scholarships, having cumulatively awarded in excess of $150 million to more than 60,000 county students since its founding in 1962. A nonprofit organization, the Scholarship Foundation also provides free financial aid advising services. For additional information, visit www.sbscholarship. org. email: dmason@newspress.com

Pier Continued from Page B1

Up on the pier, there’s the previously mentioned Pacific Park rides including the Ferris wheel and roller coaster. But over in a distinctive building is a Santa Monica Pier tradition: the merry-goround, which costs just a few dollars for a ride. In the same building is the Soda Jerks, which creates traditional beverages of ice cream in soda water, plus banana splits and more.

Elsewhere on the pier, you’ll hear a lot of noise: clash, clash, clash!

It’s the air hockey players.

A long row of tables are in the pier’s big arcade, and there were nearly a dozen games being played at the same time. Never mind the rows of high-tech, out-of-this-world video games. Nothing seems to match the drama of air hockey games. Clash, clash, clash!

The pier, of course, stands out for its restaurants, including Bubba Gump, where your server may drill you with some questions about “Forrest Gump,” the movie that inspired this seafood restaurant. While Bubba Gump is known

for its shrimp, its menu also features a tasty salmon and drinks such as the Lava Flow, featuring rum and pineapple juice. The pier is known today as a tourism site, but that wasn’t its original purpose. It came about in the early 20th century because the city of Santa Monica needed a way to dispose of its sewage. As santamonicapier.org points out, the practice was discontinued in the 1920s.

The pier opened on Sept. 9, 1909, as the nation’s first concrete pier — something sturdy enough to stand against nature. Opening day was marked by a visit by the USS Albany, a Navy cruiser.

The pier quickly became a favorite spot for fishing, and it remains that today.

On June 13, 1916, people heard organ music as the Looff Pleasure Pier opened its Looff Hippodrome. Inside was the first ride, the carousel.

In 1919, the city of Santa Monica started to replace the concrete piles, which were deteriorating, with wood piles. Eventually wood deck boards replaced the concrete ones.

In 1924, Santa Monica Amusement Company bought Looff Pleasure Pier operation and upgraded the roller

coaster with the Whirlwind DIpper, which was longer and faster.

And on July 23, 1924, La Monica Ballroom opened on the pier, causing the first traffic jam in Santa Monica’s history. More than 50,000 people showed up. . For more on the pier’s history, see the

previously mentioned santamonicapier. org.

And the pier is also part of the future — at least in science fiction. Part of a “Star Trek” Voyager” time travel story, “Future’s End,” was filmed there. email: dmason@newspress.com

The Santa Monica Pier is known for its rides, midway games and restaurants.

DAVE MASON / NEWS-PRESS PHOTOS

People of all ages scream with delight on the pier’s roller coaster, right next to its Scrambler ride and Ferris wheel.

Bubba Gump, in the background, is among the restaurants at the pier.