Santa Barbara News-Press: March 15, 2023

Gauchos score three home runs

UCSB baseball team defeats Loyola Marymount - A3

The women of the wild West

Alisal Ranch captures pioneering spirit with ‘WILDWONDER’ - B1

MARCH 15, 2023

First Republic Bank rebounds

California bank sees shares rise Tuesday after Monday’s decline

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

San Francisco-based First Republic bank opened Monday morning with a 70% plunge in its stock prices and ended the day with a 61.8% decline.

But Tuesday was a better day for the bank, which has a branch located at 1200 State St. in Santa Barbara.

First Republic ended Tuesday with a 27.8% gain. At one point, it climbed more than 60%.

And the bank reported on Sunday that it had received additional funding from JPMorgan Chase and the Federal Reserve.

First Republic Bank’s plunge on Monday follows the Silicon Valley Bank collapse last week.

But the First Republic Bank decrease was less than the 87% decline experienced by Silicon Valley Bank, which was taken over by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Bank of America, JP Morgan and other major banks saw their stock prices take a dive last week, but their prices stabilized on Friday.

First Republic Bank has more than 80 branches in seven states and held $176.4

Fast and furious

National Weather Service says heavy rain fell but during short durations that cut rainfall totals

billion in deposits at the end of 2022. Of that, $119.5 billion was uninsured.

According to a report filed with the FDIC, the average deposit size for most First Republic customers is less than $200,000. The average business account holds less than $500,000. The corporate headquarters of First Republic Bank did not respond Tuesday to the NewsPress’ request for comment.

On Monday, President Joe Biden stressed that the banking system is safe, noting steps that were taken to limit the fallout from the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. Some lawmakers have called for re-examining the rules for midsize banks. San Francisco Gate reported that First Republic Bank mainly serves wealthy clients and has deposits less concentrated in the tech industry than Silicon Valley Bank did.

“The Tuesday rally is another hopeful sign for markets,” Business Insider reported on Tuesday. “ ‘Big Short’ investor Michael Burry has said he believes there’s little risk of contagion from SVB’s collapse for other stocks.”” email: kzehnder@newspress.com

Yellen: No bailout for Silicon Valley Bank shareholders

By RIA JOSEPH THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

the storm. Leave now.”

By DAVE MASON NEWS-PRESS MANAGING EDITOR

San Antonio Creek overflowed a crossing Tuesday at Tucker’s Grove Park near Santa Barbara as rain pounded the South Coast.

On Tuesday morning, Santa Barbara County issued evacuation orders for the Alisal Fire, Cave Fire and Thomas Fire burn areas.

The county Office of Emergency Management didn’t mince words at readysbc.org: “Flooding and debris flow hazards exist due to

But as of 5:30 p.m., the county canceled those orders with Raquel Zick, the public information officer for the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, noting, “Be aware the flooding and debris may be still present in the area.”

A flood advisory was scheduled to end by 10 p.m. Tuesday in Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo counties.

Between 4 p.m. Monday and 4 p.m. Tuesday, a little over 2 inches of rain fell in Goleta. More than

2 inches of rain was reported in Santa Barbara.

“So far the storm has been underwhelming locally as the first impulse has moved through much faster than anticipated across San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties,” the National Weather Service said Tuesday afternoon.

“Rain rates around a half inch per hour have been observed, but only for short durations, which has significantly cut into rainfall totals there.”

During the same 24-hour

period, the National Weather Service reported 1.22 inch of rain fell in Santa Maria and 1.18 inch in Lompoc. Things were drier in New Cuyama, which experienced 0.52 inch of rain and Santa Ynez, which saw 0.24 inch.

Heavy amounts of water were seen flowing at Montecito Creek, and California Conservation Corps members filled sandbags at Lower Manning Park in Montecito.

(The Center Square) — Just one day after U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told Margaret Brennan on CBS’ “Face the Nation” that “investors and owners of systemic large banks” will not be bailed out of the Silicon Valley Bank failure, she made good on her statement. “We’re not going to do that again, but we are concerned about depositors and are focused on trying to meet their needs,” Secretary Yellen stated.

In a joint statement released by the Federal Reserve on Sunday, Secretary Yellen, Federal Reserve Board Chair Jerome H. Powell and FDIC Chairman Martin J. Gruenberg announced: “Depositors will have access to all of their money starting Monday, March 13. No losses associated with the resolution of Silicon Valley Bank will be borne by the taxpayer … Shareholders and certain unsecured debt holders will not be protected. Senior management has also

Santa Barbara County Flood District workers survey San Antonio Creek as it overflows a crossing Tuesday in Tucker’s Grove Park near Santa Barbara.

At left, Capt. Jason Orr of the Santa Barbara County Fire Department looks at damage from a eucalyptus tree that fell over a bridge over Tecolote Creek. The bridge is near The Ritz-Carlton Bacara Resort in Goleta. At right, traffic is lighter than usual Tuesday on Highway 101 in Montecito.

Biden takes fire after inflation increases again

By CASEY HARPER

(The Center Square) — The latest federal inflation data shows consumer prices rose again in February, sparking criticism of President Joe Biden and his spending agenda.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released the Consumer Price Index Tuesday, which showed consumer prices rose 0.4% in February, totaling a 6% increase over the previous 12 months.

“Core CPI came in hot: 0.5% for the month as opposed to the (still hot) 0.4% expected,” Jason Furman, an economist and Harvard professor, wrote on Twitter. “Core CPI higher for the month than the three months than the six months.”

“Core CPI came in at a 5.6% annual rate for the month of February,” he added. “In the 25 years before COVID, the single highest monthly print (out of 300

prints) was a 4.6% annual rate.” Critics pointed out that the annual inflation rate declined in this latest data, but Dr. Furman suggested that does not mean the U.S. is out of the woods yet.

“The fact that 12-month inflation fell simply means that inflation in February 2023 (which entered the calculation) was lower than inflation in Februrary 2022 (which dropped out),” Dr. Furman said. “Which is to say, it does not mean anything about the underlying inflation trend or outlook.”

Critics are piling up on President Biden after the data was released, in particular, because Mr. Biden just days ago released a federal budget that would have the national debt surpass $50 trillion within a decade.

“Just last week, Biden put forward a $6.8 trillion budget that’s even more full of reckless taxes and spending than his last terrible proposal,” said Sen. Rick

Scott, R-Fla. “Credit card debt is up, and savings are down as families struggle to make ends meet. For our poorest families, like mine growing up, Biden’s high prices make even the most basic necessities unaffordable.

The president needs to WAKE UP and realize that the pain he is causing for hard-working Americans won’t end until he ends his addiction to reckless government spending.”

The White House has pointed out that its budget cuts deficits by $3 trillion over the next decade.

Even with those cuts, the debt is projected to continue to rise. The federal government is projected to spend more money on interest payments on the national debt than on national defense over the next decade.

“Families have lost two months of pay to inflation,” said House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith, R-Mo.

“Yet the President is embracing further rounds of fiscal and

economic calamity including an additional $4.7 trillion in tax increases on families, farmers and job creators to fund the Democrats’ welfare for the wealthy agenda.”

Federal debt spending fuels inflation because money-printing helps the government sustain its debt spending but also increases inflation.

“President Biden’s reckless spending and far-left priorities have created an inflation disaster,” Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo, said after the pricing data was released. “Americans are dipping into their savings just to pay for gas and groceries. Yet, President Biden doubled down on his disastrous policies with his latest budget request. His radical, tax-and-spend wish list attacks American energy, wastes taxpayer dollars and raises taxes on everyday Americans.”

Casey Harper works at The Center Square’s Washington, D.C., bureau.

Treasury Department agrees to hand over Hunter Biden files

By CASEY HARPER THE CENTER SQUARE SENIOR REPORTER

(The Center Square) — The House Oversight Committee said Tuesday that the U.S. Treasury Department is providing the investigatory committee with access to Hunter Biden’s Suspicious Activity Reports after months of delay.

The revelation is the latest chapter in the committee’s ongoing investigation into the president’s son and his associates. The lawmakers concerned with the issue argue the president could be compromised if foreign sources have knowledge of his or his son’s alleged wrongdoing.

“According to bank documents we’ve already obtained, we know one company owned by a Biden associate received a $3 million wire from a Chinese energy company two months after Joe Biden left the vice presidency,” House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer, R-Ky, said “Soon after, hundreds of thousands of dollars in payouts went to members of the Biden family.”

Lawmakers are also looking into Hunter’s associates. They sent letters to James Biden and Eric Schwerin, demanding they hand over documents concerning their foreign dealings. Now the committee has

reportedly issued subpoenas to some of Hunter’s business associates as well.

“We are going to continue to use bank documents and suspicious activity reports to follow the money trail to determine the extent of the Biden family’s business schemes, if Joe Biden is compromised by these deals, and if there is a national security threat,” U.S. Rep. Comer said.

The committee still blasted the Biden administration, saying the Treasury Department delayed in providing access to the files.

“After two months of dragging their feet, the Treasury Department is finally providing

us with access to the Suspicious Activity Reports for the Biden family and their associates’ business transactions,” Rep. Comer said. “It should never have taken us threatening to hold a hearing and conduct a transcribed interview with an official under the penalty of perjury for Treasury to finally accommodate part of our request. For over 20 years, Congress had access to these reports, but the Biden administration changed the rules out of the blue to restrict our ability to conduct oversight.” Casey Harper works at The Center Square’s Washington, D.C., bureau.

Federal legislation would explore new hydropower reserves

By GLENN MINNIS THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) — A trio of federal lawmakers from Arizona has joined forces to push bipartisan legislation they say would keep energy costs in line while maintaining supply reserves during peak times of season.

New legislation filed in Congress would, as the sponsors say, “help enable the exploration of additional pumped-storage hydropower facilities to the Salt River reservoir system.”

These facilities store excess water in a higher-elevation reservoir, which is used to generate hydroelectric current in times of high demand.

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Sen. Kelly is joined by Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz. and Rep. David Schweikert, R-Ariz. In addition, the bill would help pave the way for the further exploration of pumped-storage hydropower facilities in the Salt River reservoir system.

“Through affordable, cleaner energy storage, our bill lowers energy costs for Arizonans,” Sen. Sinema added.

Salt River Project CEO and General Manager Mike Hummel details that the hydropower storage units are built to store renewable energy by day and offer it up at night.

Monument as the fourth national park in the state, along with Grand Canyon, Saguaro and Petrified Forest national parks.

The measure is co-sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Sinema and is being pushed in the House by Republican Rep. Juan Ciscomani.

COURTESY PHOTO

“Through affordable, cleaner energy storage, our bill lowers energy costs for Arizonans,”

Sen. Sinema, I-Arizona, said about bipartisan legislation.

“I’m glad to lead this bipartisan legislation for Arizona, which will pave the way for more affordable and reliable energy and boost energy storage, Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly said in a news release. “I’ll keep working with Republicans and Democrats to make sure Arizona continues to lead the way on renewable energy solutions.”

A member of the Senate

“In addition to more than 800 megawatts of four-hour battery storage SRP will have online by 2026, pumped storage will further diversify SRP’s capabilities, providing 10 to 12 hours of needed energy storage,” he added.

In a second move, Sen. Kelly re-introduced the Chiricahua National Park Act, which seeks to establish the Chiricahua National

“Our bipartisan legislation to designate Chiricahua National Monument as a national park would further promote conservation, boost tourism and create economic opportunities in Southern Arizona,” said Sen. Kelly, with Rep. Ciscomani adding, “Chiricahua National Monument has long been a beloved landmark in Southern Arizona. These unique formations draw visitors from across the nation and around the world to our state, and this tourism is an important part of our regional economy.”

Sen. Kelly first sponsored the bill in April 2021, when the measure unanimously passed in the Senate but stalled in the House.

School board to discuss parental rights

BALLARD — The Ballard School Board will discuss a parental rights policy during the 3:30 p.m. board meeting today at Ballard Elementary School, 2425 School St.

During last month’s meeting, Rebecca Smith requested that the parental rights policy be put on the agenda. This policy was sparked by

Vehicles collide in Orcutt

ORCUTT — A minivan and a white Tahoe collided Tuesday near Stillwell Road/East Clark, behind Santa Barbara County Fire station 26 in Orcutt.

The minivan was driven by a woman, who was its only occupant and required extrication. She was in critical condition and was transported to Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria.

The white Tahoe was occupied by the man driving it and one female child, neither of whom sustained injuries, Capt. Scott Safechuck, public information officer for County Fire, reported in a tweet on Tuesday.

— Katherine Zehnder

an incident that occurred in Ballard’s fourth-grade classroom, which was previously covered by the News-Press. For more about the district, see ballardschool.org.

— Katherine Zehnder

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The Santa Barbara County Fire Department rescues a woman from a minivan after a collision in Orcutt.

UCSB Gauchos defeat Loyola Marymount’s baseball team Sports

By ERIC BOOSE UCSB SPORTS

LOS ANGELES — The UCSB baseball team’s (12-3) offense stayed white hot Monday night, hitting three home runs and scoring double digits for the third time in a week to defeat Loyola Marymount (7-8), 13-6, in Los Angeles.

Nick Oakley got the scoring started in the second inning with his first home run of the season, then Aaron Parker and Ivan Brethowr added long balls — the fifth for each of them — in the fourth and eighth innings.

While Tyler Bremner faced the minimum through his first three innings, the Gauchos got to work putting runs on the board.

Jonah Sebring led off the top of the second inning by being hit by a pitch, giving Oakley a runner to drive home. The UCSB second baseman, who had ended the first inning by starting a double play on defense, gave a 3-1 pitch a ride over the centerfield wall for his first home run of the season.

The Gauchos added another two-

run homer in the top of the fourth, this time off the bat of Parker. After Zander Darby doubled off the first pitch he saw, UCSB’s sophomore catcher drilled his fifth long ball of the year over LMU’s “blue monster” wall in left field to double the advantage.

Sebring made it a 5-0 game with an RBI single, then Oakley drove in his third run of the day with an RBI groundout before the inning ended. The Gauchos would need those extra runs in the bottom of the fourth, as Bremner gave up his first three hits of the night — a double, a triple and a single — for two LMU runs. To the freshman’s credit, Bremner responded by striking out the next three batters he faced, then pitched a perfect fifth inning.

Bremner’s night was done after five, and he departed with a 7-2 lead thanks to Parker’s fifthinning RBI single. Alex Schrier stepped in in relief, only to give up three runs in the sixth due to some bad luck. After back-toback singles, Schrier induced a possible double-play ball, only for an error to turn outs into a run

for LMU. An RBI groundout and a sacrifice fly brought the Lions within two before the frame was done. Sebring stretched UCSB’s lead back to four in the top of the seventh with a two-RBI triple, but LMU got one back in the bottom half of the inning.

Up only three and having been out-scored, 4-2, since their starter departed, the Gauchos were looking for insurance runs in the eighth inning, and they got them in a big way.

One-out singles from LeTrey McCollum and Corey Nunez put runners on for Brethowr, who mashed a no-doubt home run to left field to break the game back open. Darby followed that up by hitting a double and promptly stealing third, then Parker drove him home with a single for UCSB’s 13th run of the game.

Elliot Gallegos made his first appearance of the season in the bottom of the ninth, pitching a perfect inning to but the game to bed.

The Gauchos were as disciplined as they were powerful at the plate Monday night, walking more times

— a season-high 11 — than they struck out Tyler Bremner faced the minimum in four of his five innings of work in Los Angeles, finishing with a line of 5.0 innings pitched, two earned runs on three hits and one walk, and seven strikeouts • Six Gauchos had multi-hit nights on Monday. Aaron Parker led the team in hits (3) and RBI (4) UCSB will return home to begin Big West play this weekend, hosting Cal State Bakersfield for a three-game series at Caesar Uyesaka Stadium, March 17-19. First pitch times are set for 5:05 p.m. Friday, 4:05 p.m. Saturday and 1:05 p.m. Sunday. Children ages 12 and under receive free admission to all Saturday and Sunday home games this baseball season. For fans who cannot make it to the ballpark, the games will be live on ESPN+, with an audioonly broadcast and live stats available through ucsbgauchos. com.

Eric Boose is assistant director of athletic communications at UCSB. email: sports@newspress.com

SBCC football coach shares his insights

By MICHAEL JORGENSON SBCC SPORTS WRITER

The rewriting of a 58-year old record book isn’t something that happens by accident.

When the Santa Barbara City College football team went on its magical run of 10 straight wins to end the 2022 season, it was able to do so because it had a roster of more than 90 student-athletes and a nine-man coaching staff filled top-to-bottom with dedicated hard-workers ready for the task at hand.

Former Mississippi Valley State cornerback and current SBCC defensive backs coach Zach Brooks is one of the figures who has played a key role in SBCC’s 17 wins over the past two seasons — a two-year win total that comes second only to Bob Dinaberg’s back-to-back nine-win teams from 1971-72.

With Brooks coaching the secondary, the Vaquero defense has been stacked with playmaking tendencies, boasting 16 interceptions in each of the last two seasons, which are tied for the

program’s highest single-season totals over the past two decades.

Like Dinaberg, Brooks and the rest of the current staff are examples of how great coaching can breed success. If there’s one thing a great football coach can teach you, though, it’s that success is not always about what happens on the field. In a recent conversation with Brooks, he shared some of his insights and motivations as a coach coming off of SBCC’s record-breaking 2022 campaign.

When it comes to coaching young student-athletes, what kind of mentality do you approach it with?

“You try to steer them in the right direction. We let them know it’s bigger than football. You’re only young and in college once, so we just try to lead and guide them to try and not make the mistakes that we made in order to become better not only as an athlete, but as a student on-and-off the field.”

Where does your inspiration come from?

“Most importantly, my father. He grew up in a family of seven

and he was the youngest, and he’s always been there for me. He’s the reason I love sports today. He started me at a very young age.

“It was more than sports because it was a father-son connection that we created with that bond through sports. Once one sport ended, it was on to the next. We would be out there every day, all day. We brought in other kids, and they started connecting with their parents because they had to bring them to practice.

“Sometimes they’d stay and watch. They’d come to the games, so it just created a big family and a strong bond.”

Would you say that sports is one of the most powerful forces in terms of bringing people together?

“Yeah, because sports are competitive, but they teach you to depend and lean on your brother. Through blood sweat and tears, day in, day out, early mornings, late nights, studying together, living together, going to class together, it’s like you’re together all year round so it just creates that bond and that brotherhood. You’re like one big family.”

Perfect start continues For SBCC beach volleyball team

By MICHAEL JORGENSON SBCC SPORTS WRITER

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara City College beach volleyball team enjoyed three more sweeps on March 8, downing Mt. San Jacinto, Mira Costa and host Irvine Valley 5-0 each.

“Wednesday was an exciting day for our team,” Head Coach Ariana Garner said. “We played three great teams and we showed

up prepared — playing fearless and confident like we know we are capable of.”

The Vaqueros now own a 9-0 record for the season, including eight sweeps. On March 8, they came away victorious in 15 out of 17 sets, with Irvine Valley being the only opponent that could force any match to go three games.

“All of our pairs displayed high energy, fantastic attitudes and great communication throughout

the long day,” Garner said. “Winning matches is always a great achievement, but it’s even better when each pair plays to the best of their abilities and displays positive effort, and leadership. We are excited to move onto our conference matches!”

Michael Jorgenson works in communications/media relations at Santa Barbara City College. email: sports@newspress.com

Gauchos prepare for March Madness

The No. 14 UCSB men’s basketball team will take on No. 3 Baylor University Bears Friday during the Gauchos’ first March Madness game in Denver.

The game will take place at 10:30 a.m. Pacific time/1:30 p.m. Eastern time and will air on TNT.

The UCSB men’s basketball team came out on top of The Big West, winning a share of the regular season title while bringing home The Big West

Championship, punching its ticket to March Madness. Following the selection show, the Gauchos were seeded 14th in the South Region as they prepare for the thirdseeded Baylor University Bears in the first round. This will be the seventh tournament appearance and 10th NCAA tournament game in the Gauchos’ history. The last time the Gauchos made it to March Madness was during the 2020-21 season

after UCSB won The Big West Championship. When competing in the first round, UC Santa Barbara dropped its game to Creighton 63-62. Most recently, the Gauchos took down reigning Big West Champions Cal State Fullerton 72-62, which punched the Gauchos’ ticket to the Big Dance this season.

— Kristen Keller, UCSB sports writer

What motivates you every day to be the best football coach you can be?

“What really motivates me is I look back and understand what my dad put into it and the time he spent with me. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. So I like giving back to the kids and being a teaching tool, and it definitely comes from my dad who motivates me.”

Railroad locomotives and related equipment used in transporting goods and passengers are powered by diesel engines and emit diesel exhaust. Diesel exhaust is a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer, and contains chemicals known to the State to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some people near railroad operations are exposed to diesel exhaust. Exposure depends on many factors, including the type and intensity of railroad operations, how close you are to the facility, how much time you spend there and whether there are other sources of diesel exhaust in your area. This map shows major railroad facilities in this area, although smaller facilities may also result in exposure:

Wewantyoutoknowthattherailroadshaveinitiatedanumberofmeasures toreduce the amountof diesel exhaustgeneratedbyouroperations.Weare committedtodeliveringfreightandmovingpassengersinasafeand environmentallyresponsibleway.

Opening statements could begin today in ComEd bribery case

By BRETT ROWLAND THE CENTER SQUARE INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER

(The Center Square) — Opening statements could begin Wednesday in a two-year-old case accusing four former ComEd executives and lobbyists of a multi-year scheme to corruptly influence longtime former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Judge Harry Leinenweber led the jury selection process Tuesday with input from prosecutors and defense attorneys. Most of the jury selection questioning was done via a sidebar, which could only be heard by the prosecutors, defendants and their attorneys listening through headphones. They worked through the first batch of 70 potential jurors. More than two dozen were dismissed because they said there were hardships that would make it difficult for them to attend a trial expected to last six-to-eight weeks.

Late Tuesday afternoon, the judge brought in a second batch of potential jurors for questioning. Some were questioned at length.

Others were quickly sent home. The judge plans to impanel 12 jurors with six alternates.

Former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, former ComEd lobbyist John Hooker, former ComEd consultant Jay Doherty and former lobbyist and state lawmaker Michael McClain have all pleaded “not guilty” to conspiracy, bribery, and willfully falsifying ComEd books and records.

Before the jury selection began Tuesday, Judge Leinenweber allowed an attorney representing media outlets to intervene to get access to copies of recordings admitted as evidence in the trial.

The judge granted the media motion over objections from Mr. McClain’s attorney, Patrick Cotter.

Prosecutors plan to introduce wiretap evidence during the

trial. They also plan to call 70 witnesses.

Once a jury is impaneled, opening statements could begin. ComEd, the state’s largest electric utility, agreed to pay $200 million in July 2020 to resolve a criminal investigation into the years-long bribery scheme. As part of a deferred prosecution agreement, ComEd admitted it arranged jobs, vendor subcontracts and payments in a bid to influence Madigan.

Jurors won’t hear about that 38-page agreement at trial. The judge granted a motion to keep that agreement out of evidence. Defense attorneys had argued “allowing the jury to learn of ComEd’s agreement to pay $200 million would severely prejudice defendants because jurors may conclude that ComEd thought that its officers committed a very serious crime if they paid a $200 million fine,” according to pretrial motions.

Fidel Marquez, a former ComEd official, pleaded guilty to bribery charges in September 2020. Mr. Marquez is expected to testify that “he participated in a conspiracy to provide benefits to Madigan’s associates with the intent to induce Madigan to take action as Speaker that was favorable to ComEd, including support of ComEd’s efforts to pass legislation beneficial to ComEd,” according to court documents.

Mr. Madigan served in the Illinois House from 1971 to 2021. From 1997 to 2021, he served as speaker of the Illinois House. He wielded additional power as chairman of the Democratic Party of Illinois.

Mr. Madigan, who resigned after losing the House speakership in January 2021, has been charged with 23 counts of racketeering, bribery and official misconduct in a separate case that could go to trial in April 2024. He has pleaded “not guilty.”

HULSEBUSCH, Harald H. A.

Harald H. A. Hulsebusch, after a full and remarkable life of 89 years, passed away at 4:44 PM on February 28, 2023, with his loving stepdaughter, Julia Jane Di Sieno, at his side. He followed his wife, Wanda, who left us in December of 2021. Harald was born in Ovelgonne, Germany on December 2, 1933, to Lili and Heinrich Hulsebusch.

After a 35 year career at sea, as an engineer on ocean going ships, he retired as chief engineer on a tuna clipper. He was a partner in an ambitious and forward thinking lobster fishing venture in which he was also chief engineer on a vessel specially designed to catch, prepare, clean, freeze, and hold the catch. In 1961, he settled in Santa Barbara. Harald invested in local real estate and was, hands down, considered the most generous landlord his tenants ever had, always making sure families were housed safely. He and Wanda had a fabulous life, travelling the world together. His love of the sea continued, and for 20 years, in his sailing yacht, “Eagle”, Harald, first mate Wanda, stepdaughter Julia, and many friends cruised the coastal waters, with many trips to Catalina and the Channel Islands. Harald was a proud member of the Santa Barbara Elks Club, the Santa Barbara German Club, and the Edelweiss Club. In his later years he enjoyed playing the game of Bunco.

After he lost Wanda, the last 14 months of his life were not spent in loneliness. He lived with Julia during most of that time, and she watched over him day and night. They took frequent day trips and dined at Harald’s old haunts and favorite restaurants. He is survived by his brother, Immo (Else) of Rodenkirchen, Germany, and his 2 sisters, Siegrid (Horst) Ilchman of Flensburg, Germany, and Edith (Jeff) Frank of Gig Harbor, WA. He is also survived by 11 nieces and nephews and 12 grand nieces and nephews, as well as a stepson and stepdaughter.

He will be interred at the Santa Barbara Cemetery next to his wife, Wanda, on a hill overlooking the sea. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, March 17th. A luncheon will follow at “The Anchor Rose” , 113 Harbor Way, Ste 180 Santa Barbara, CA 93109.

Please make any donations in Harald’s honor to Animal Rescue Team Inc. and the Santa Barbara Elks Club.

Shorty, how lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard. There is only one happiness in this life, to love and to be loved. Too dearly loved to be forgotten. See you and Mutti on the other side. Prost!

Love, Julchen

Obituary notices are published daily in the Santa Barbara News-Press and also appear on our website www.newspress.com To place an obituary, please email the text and photo(s) to obits@ newspress.com or fax text only (no photos) to (805) 966-1421. Please include your name, address, contact phone number and the date(s) you would like the obituary to be published. Photos should be in jpeg format with at least 200 dpi. If a digital photo is not available, a picture may be brought into our office for scanning. We will lay out the obituary using our standard format. A formatted proof of the obituary and the cost will be emailed back for review and approval. The minimum obituary cost to print one time is $150.00 for up to 1.5” in length -- includes 1 photo and up to 12 lines of text, approximately 630 characters; up to approximately 930 characters without a photo. Add $60.00 for each additional inch or partial inch after the first 1.5”; up to approximately 700 characters per additional inch. All Obituaries must be reviewed, approved, and prepaid by deadline. We accept all major credit cards by phone; check or cash payments may be brought into our office located at 715 Anacapa Street. The deadline for Weekend and Monday’s editions is at 10a.m. on Thursdays; Tuesday’s edition deadlines at 10a.m. on Fridays; Wednesday’s edition deadlines at 10a.m. on Mondays; Thursday’s edition deadlines at 10a.m. on Tuesdays; Friday’s edition deadlines at 10a.m. on Wednesdays (Pacific Time). Free Death Notices must be directly emailed by the mortuary to our newsroom at news@ newspress.com. The News-Press cannot accept

RAIN

Continued from Page A1

Along with the rain came fast wind. In fact, a big eucalyptus tree — a victim of the windy and rainy conditions — fell over a bridge that crosses Tecolote Creek near The Ritz-Carlton Bacara Resort in Goleta.

Throughout the South Coast, small ponds emerged on street corners, with pedestrians doing their best to navigate around the water that kept flowing. Sometimes they just had to take a leap of faith — literally. The storm was expected to

end early this morning. Before the News-Press went to press on Tuesday evening, the National Weather Service said there could be a burst of rain overnight, which it said was more likely for the South Coast than North County. The storms have made a big difference in local reservoirs.

On Tuesday afternoon, the Santa Barbara County Public Works Department reported these elevation figures: 747.18 feet at Lake Cachuma, 600.73 feet at Alisal Reservoir, 1,400.27 feet at Gibraltar Reservoir and 2,224.38 feet at Jameson Reservoir. In anticipation of the storm, Santa Barbara Unified School

District campuses, schools in Montecito and the Santa Barbara City College campuses were closed Tuesday. The same schools planned to reopen today. People were determined to be prepared for the storm. Customers on Monday stocked up on supplies at Costco’s in Goleta. The crowd was big enough that one shopper remarked that it seemed more like a Sunday, a traditionally busier day for Costco than a Monday. And all the rain discouraged drivers from going on the road. Traffic was lighter than usual on Highway 101 in Montecito, Santa Barbara and Goleta.

The storm is warmer than the one on Jan. 9. Highs on Tuesday were the upper 50s throughout Santa Barbara County, and most of the lows were in the mid-50s. “Dry and warmer weather is expected Thursday and Friday with a chance of light precipitation over the weekend,” the National Weather Service said Tuesday afternoon.

One fringe benefit of the recent rains is De la Guerra Plaza. The formerly brown, formerly thin grass at the Santa Barbara park was green and lush on Tuesday. email: dmason@newspress.com

DAVE MASON/ NEWS-PRESSS

At left, rainwater travels under a parklet on State Street in downtown Santa Barbara. At right, rain results in small ponds at street corners and intersections on State Street.

Recent rains, including this week’s storm, have left the grass at De la Guerra Plaza greener and thicker than usual.

Life theArts

CALENDAR

‘WILDWONDER’

COURTESY PHOTO

The Santa Barbara Symphony will celebrate the music of Oscar-winning composer John Williams during concerts March 18 and 19 at The Granada in Santa Barbara.

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

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Entangled: Responding to Environmental Crisis,” runs through March 25 at the Westmont Ridley-Tree Museum of Art. The museum is open from 10 a.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. It’s closed on Sundays and college holidays. For more information, call 805565-6162 or visit westmont.edu/ museum.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Storytelling: Native People Through the Lens of Edward S. Curtis” is on display through April 30 at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol, Santa Barbara. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays. For more information, visit sbnature.org.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Interlopings: Colors in the Warp and Weft of Ecological Entanglements” is an exhibit that runs through March 12 at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, 1212 Mission Canyon Road, Santa Barbara. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The exhibit features weavings dyed with pigments from non-native plants on Santa Cruz Island. The weavings were created by artists Helen Svensson and Lisa Jevbratt. For more information, see sbbotanicgarden.org.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Coast artist and London native Annie Hoffman’s exhibit “Seeing Ourselves in Colour” will be displayed through Feb. 28 at Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. For more information, visit anniehoffmann.com.

10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. “SURREAL

WOMEN: Surrealist Art by American Women” is on display through April 24 at Sullivan Goss: An American Gallery, 11 E. Anapamu St. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. For more information, www.sullivangoss.com.

By MARILYN MCMAHON NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

Following the event’s overwhelming success last fall, Alisal Ranch is bringing back its “WILDWONDER” retreat experience for women from Sunday through March 22.

The ranch in Solvang invites guests to embrace the spirit of the women of the Wild West, who are unafraid to try something new and explore uncharted territory.

Cultivating a community of inspiring individuals, “WILDWONDER” celebrates the modern woman by learning from leading lady pioneers who tell their stories and share their skills with guests.

The all-inclusive experience features a multi-day itinerary of activities and events with female artisans, chefs, winemakers, cowgirls, wellness leaders and more as guests make new connections and participate in experiences that spark selfdiscovery and growth.

In addition to the return of cooking demonstrations, line dancing lessons, intention setting, yoga and morning meditation walks, new programming for this year includes a coffee workshop, plant walk and a photography workshop.

Guests will also get to enjoy Alisal Ranch’s signature Breakfast

Ride, which takes guests through the rolling hills of the property via horseback or hayride to a historic adobe where an al fresco, chefprepared breakfast awaits.

Leading the various activities are:

• Elizabeth Poett, rancher and chef: Raised on her family’s 14,000-acre ranch on Santa Barbara’s Central Coast, Ms. Poett is a seventh-generation cattle rancher and the chef behind The Ranch Table, where she hosts cooking classes, special meals and private events at Rancho San Julian’s historic adobe. She also hosts “Ranch to Table” on Magnolia Network, on which she shares what ranch life is all about as well as flavorful recipes that are easy to make at home.

• Darcy Hemley-Casucci, photographer: Ms. HemleyCasucci is a celebrated portraiture who creates an instant interest in her subjects through her use of light and intimate space. Her work has appeared in Vanity Fair, W, The New York Times, Dwell, Sunday Telegraph, GQ and more.

• Carrington Garland, actress and winemaker: A Santa Ynez resident, Ms. Carrington has always had a fascination with the West, and a few years ago, she dove into Western horseback riding. In addition to trail riding, cattle drives and team penning, Ms. Carrington also honors her

family’s history by winemaking, working with local winemaker Fidencio Flores on the Sky Ranch Rose, her Santa Ynez property that houses a barn, a pasture for horses and a vineyard.

• Jeanne Kelley, culinary

educator: Award-winning, sixtime cookbook author Ms. Kelley is also a food writer and food stylist, who was on staff at Bon Appetit magazine for 20 years. She is an edible garden expert who specializes in seasonal and

sustainable cooking.

• Tara Gomez and Mireia

Taribo, Camins 2 Dreams Wine: Recognized as the first Native American winemaker in the country, Ms. Gomez brings a unique perspective to her winemaking style with a focus on minimum intervention, natural winemaking. She and her wife, Ms. Taribo, founded Camins 2 Dreams Wine. They source fruit exclusively from vineyards in Santa Rita Hills, and they work exclusively with organic, biodynamic, and SIP Certified vineyards. Ms. Gomez was also recently recognized as Tara’s VinePair’s “2021 Winemaker of the Year” and The Hue Society’s “2022 Winemaker of the Year.”

• Hayley Firestone, Zaca

Coffee: A Santa Ynez local of the Firestone Vineyard, Ms. Firestone and Dennis Patrick started Zaca Coffee in 2020 as a result of a morning ritual during the pandemic. Today, they manage their 1,600-acre cattle ranch, where they raise cattle, llamas and alpacas and host special events. Together they run the growing coffee business, supplying retail and wholesale coffee as well as canned cold brew to restaurants, hotels, markets and coffee shops throughout the Central Coast.

• Sasha Emoniee, herbalist,

Please see WILDWONDER on B2

Noon to 5 p.m. “Clarence Mattei: Portrait of a Community” is on view now through May at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, which is located in downtown Santa Barbara at 136 E. De la Guerra St. Admission is free. Hours are currently from noon to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays and from noon to 7 p.m. Thursdays. For more information, visit www.sbhistorical. org.

MARCH 16

5:30 p.m. Dr. Fabrizio

Michelassi — Lewis Atterbury Stimson professor and chairman in the Department of Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical Center and surgeon-in-chief at New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center — will present a public lecture titled “In the Eye of the Storm: Lessons Learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic.” The free talk will take place at the Wolf Education and Training Center, 529 W. Junipero St., adjacent to Ridley-Tree Cancer Center in Santa Barbara. Reservations are required by March 10. To attend, contact J.V. Vallejos at 805-681-7528 or jvallejo@ sansumclinic.org. Masks will be required.

MARCH 18

7:30 p.m. The Santa Barbara Symphony will perform “John Williams: A Cinematic Celebration” at The Granada, 1214 State St., Santa Barbara. To purchase tickets, go to granadasb.org. For more information, visit www. thesymphony.org or call 805-8989386.

MARCH 19

3 p.m. The Santa Barbara Symphony will perform John Williams: A Cinematic Celebration”

Managing Editor Dave Mason dmason@newspress.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2023

Women’s retreat features female artisans, chefs, cowgirls

COURTESY PHOTOS

WILDWONDER, a women’s retreat hosted by Alisal Ranch, invites guests to embrace the spirit of the women of the Wild West.

At left, each WILDWONDER guest will be given an event swag bag and Lovely Bird Hat, which they can personalize during the retreat. At right, guests are invited to participate in the Breakfast Horseback Ride and brunch demo with Zaca’s Haley Firestone and The Ranch Table’s Elizabeth Poett.

During WILDWONDER, a wellness instructor will lead intentionsetting workshops, guided hikes and a yoga class at the Alisal Ranch private lake.

Global shipping topic for Maritime Museum program

SANTA BARBARA —

Two professors from UCSB’s Department of Global Studies will present two films about global shipping, the ships and crews that sail them and those that dismantle the ships when they are no longer being used.

Dr. Mae Miller-Likhethe and Dr. Charmaine Chua will screen “Cargo” and “All That Perishes at the Edge of Land” at 7 p.m. April 20 at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way.

At a time when global shipping has entered popular awareness because of pandemic delays, backed-up ports, whale strikes and more, this focus on the human side of the business is seen as timely. This presentation will enable people to see the problems of the industry from unusual and different perspectives, according to the museum. Admission is free for SBMM’s

“All That Perishes” will screen April 20 at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum.

Navigator Circle members, $10 for other members and $20 for nonmembers.

There will be a pre-lecture reception for members only from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m.

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria plans Women of Inspiration retreat

By DAVE MASON NEWS-PRESS MANAGING EDITOR

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is planning a new format for its annual Women of Inspiration event.

Previously this event was a luncheon. Now it’s a half-day retreat and networking lunch, and it’s set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 3 at the nonprofit’s campus at 5315 Foothill Road, Carpinteria.

For more information, visit www.sbmm.org/santa-barbaraevent/ and to become a member, go to www.sbmm.org.

— Marilyn McMahon

Kite festival to grace sky above Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA — “Colors”

is the theme of the 2023 Santa Barbara Kite Festival.

The 37th annual edition of the free festival will take place 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 16 on the West Campus lawn at Santa Barbara City College. The campus is located at 973 Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara.

Parking is available on both the West Campus and Main Campus for the popular event

“It’s always amazing to us how many colors are added to the sky by entire families of kite fliers,” Festival Kite Master Rakesh Bahadur said in a news release.

“Everyone is welcome.”

Festival Director David

Hefferman said, “We are honored to add more color this year to the legacy of festivals in our community.”

The festival includes activities such as the “Childrens’ Tail Chase,” in which groups of kids are divided into various age groups. They chase and try to capture the tail of a kite expertly flown by Mr. Bahadur.

The festival also features family-friendly kite contests

including the most beautiful kite (handmade and commercial), the highest flying kite, the largest and smallest kites, the youngest and oldest kite fliers, the “most unique or unusual” kite, the most unflyable kite and the “Best of Fest.”

In addition, festival organizers will select a winner of the Lion Award, which was created in the memory of

Santa Barbara legend Chad Dreier and his family, who are longtime supporters of the festival.

Kites, food, and beverages can be purchased at the event.

For more information, visit www.sbkitefest.net, Santa Barbara Kite Festival on Facebook or call 805-637-6202.

Let’s March Into Spring!

This year’s keynote speaker is Katie Goodman, an internationally-touring comedian, actress, author and creativity coach. Ms. Goodman has been seen on Showtime, and her comedy has collected more than 3 million online views. She wrote the book on using improv comedy to improve your life.

“We are excited to expand on all the things we love most about Women of Inspiration for this year’s event, and we look forward to welcoming the community in this new format to celebrate the accomplishments of local women and girls,” said Jamie Collins, Girls Inc. of Carpinteria’s executive director. “Our retreat is a perfect fit for corporate team building, personal development and empowering a community of strong, smart, and bold women. We are grateful to all our sponsors and donors who have helped ensure not only the success of the event, but the success of local girls and families by supporting our mission.”

As part of the half-day retreat,

Women of Inspiration attendees can join two breakout sessions in the morning, participating in smaller group workshops created to uplift, engage and inspire.

Attendees will then join the larger group for a community lunch in Girls Inc. of Carpinteria’s new courtyard, followed by the keynote speech.

The event’s workshop speakers include Sonia Aguila, National Teacher of the Year; Danielle Bordenave, owner of Spark45 Fitness; Lauren Bragg, goal coach

and wellness vixen; and Marisol Alarcon, immigration attorney at Alarcon Legal. Tickets for Women of Inspiration 2023 are $200, and all proceeds will support Girls Inc. of Carpinteria programs and mission to inspire girls to be strong, smart and bold. For more information or to purchase tickets, call Girls Inc. at 805-684-6364 or visit girlsinc-carp. org.

email: dmason@newspress.com

Students raise money for journalism convention

GOLETA — The Charger Account, the student-run news website at Dos Pueblos High School, is raising money to send journalism students to the National High School Journalism Convention in San Francisco. At the convention, students will attend various workshops,

CALENDAR

Continued from Page B1

at The Granada, 1214 State St., Santa Barbara. To purchase tickets, go to granadasb.org. For more information, visit www.thesymphony.org or call 805-898-9386.

MARCH 20

7 p.m. The Glenn Miller Orchestra will perform at The Marjorie Luke Theatre at Santa Barbara Junior High School. 720 E. Cota St., Santa Barbara. Tickets cost $30 to $54. To purchase, go to luketheatre.org/event/glennmiller-orchestra-concert.

MARCH 23

7:30 p.m. Opera Santa Barbara’s Chrisman Studio Artists will perform

WILDWONDER

Continued from Page B1

cook, earth tender and artist: Ms. Emoniee spends her days facilitating full sensory herbal food experiences, creating a native and medicinal garden in Los Angeles, leading plant walks, creating herbal remedies for Commune Apothecary, writing seasonal recipe books and practicing living in the flow of earth’s rhythms.

• Jill Thiry, wellness leader: As a self-proclaimed “student of change,” Ms. Thiry is the founder of Club Change, a program during which participants support each other in making the necessary choices to enhance their bodies, minds, spirits and communities. When not leading Club Change Zoom events, she guides guests at Rancho La Puerta through the docent program and teaches chant, swimming, hiking pole use and intention setting and practicing.

• Stephanie Mutz, Sea Stephanie Fish: A curator of unique raw bar experiences, Sea Stephanie Fish sells live Santa Barbara sea urchins and other fresh, sustainable seafood directly to the consumer and to premier restaurants along the West Coast and New York City.

• Akasha Richmond, AKASHA: Akasha Richmond settled into the life of a chef quite by accident and has flourished in this role to become one of Los Angeles’s celebrated culinary names. She started her career as a private chef and caterer and eventually opened AKASHA in 2008. It is her first restaurant venture with husband Alan Schulman, whose

taught by professionals, and they will compete in a nationwide contest against thousands of other high school students.

To donate, go to https://secure. givelively.org/donate/dospueblos-high-school-foundation/ dpmedia-journalism-conventionsan-francisco.

“The Light in the Piazza,” an acclaimed musical by Adam Guettel and Craig Lucas, March 23-26 at Center Stage Theater, upstairs at Paseo Nuevo, in Santa Barbara. To purchase tickets, go to centerstagetheater.org. An artist reception will follow the March 23 performance.

MARCH 24

7:30 p.m. Opera Santa Barbara’s Chrisman Studio Artists will perform “The Light in the Piazza,” an acclaimed musical by Adam Guettel and Craig Lucas, at Center Stage Theater, upstairs at Paseo Nuevo, in Santa Barbara. To purchase tickets, go to centerstagetheater.org.

MARCH 25

4 p.m. Actor Max McLean will perform “C.S. Lewis on Stage: Further

So far, more than $4,000 has been raised. According to the donation website, the goal is $38,000.

To see the students’ news website, go to chargeraccount. org.

— Dave Mason

Up & Further In” at The Granada, 1214 State St., Santa Barbara. To purchase tickets, go to granadasb.org.

7:30 p.m. Opera Santa Barbara’s Chrisman Studio Artists will perform “The Light in the Piazza,” an acclaimed musical by Adam Guettel and Craig Lucas, at Center Stage Theater, upstairs at Paseo Nuevo in Santa Barbara. To purchase tickets, go to centerstagetheater.org.

MARCH 26

2:30 p.m. Opera Santa Barbara’s Chrisman Studio Artists will perform “The Light in the Piazza,” an acclaimed musical by Adam Guettel and Craig Lucas, at Center Stage Theater, upstairs at Paseo Nuevo in Santa Barbara. To purchase tickets, go to centerstagetheater.org.

— Dave Mason

COURTESY PHOTO

The experience at Alisal Ranch during WILDWONDER includes all meals, including several guest chef-led dinners and wine pairings, cooking demonstrations and an al fresco, chef-prepared breakfast following the Breakfast Horseback Ride. FYI

menu reflects her love of global flavors. She has since created and led small culinary and cultural tours of India and Italy, curating unique itineraries for the bespoke traveler. Akasha is inspired by world cuisine and has traveled to India, Southeast Asia, North Africa, Italy, Australia, Eastern and Western Europe and Mexico.

• Janelle Norman, Cailloux Cheese Shop: Business owner and cheesemonger Ms. Norman followed her passion for cheese, wine, and charcuterie to own her own shop in Solvang. Cailloux, which is French for “pepple,” is an ode to Ms. Norman’s love for rocks, pebbles and all things terroir, which is also exemplified by her degree in geology.

With prices starting at $820/ night for double occupancy,

“WILDWONDER” room bookings include Western-themed accommodations, all meals, all non-alcoholic beverages and an extensive list of alcoholic beverages, one horseback ride, all scheduled group event activities, an extensive event swag bag and a Lovely Bird hat with custom hat band.

email: mmcmahon@newspress.com

“WILDWONDER” is set for Sunday through March 22 at Alisal Ranch, 1054 Alisal Road, Solvang. For more information, email alisal@ wagstaffmktg.com. For more about Alisal Ranch, go to alisalranch.com.

COURTESY PHOTO

— Dave Mason

COURTESY PHOTO

A large crowd turns out for the 2018 Santa Barbara Kite Festival at Santa Barbara City College.

COURTESY PHOTO

Comedian and author Katie Goodman is the keynote speaker at this year’s Women of Inspiration event at Girls Inc. of Carpinteria.

Diversions

Thought for Today

“A will finds a way.”

— Orison Swett Marden

HOROSCOPE

Horoscope.com

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

ARIES — Your attractiveness and sociability are at a peak today, Aries. Don’t hesitate to put both to good use. You will shine brightly at any social occasion, whether you’re the host or guest. You radiate warmth and enthusiasm. You draw people to you like a magnet. You may have some important news to share, so don’t be surprised if you can’t move for all the people gathered around you.

TAURUS — All matters related to romance, love, and marriage should go well today, Taurus. You should feel especially warm and supportive. Intimate conversations will come easily and naturally. Be sure to think before you speak. There’s some danger of misunderstanding, and you don’t want any arguments to upset this glorious day.

GEMINI — A group gathering you attend today could have longterm beneficial ramifications, Gemini. Perhaps you will strike up a conversation with a stranger who turns out to be an expert in a field you’re interested in. Or you may deepen a relationship with a casual acquaintance, who ends up a friend for life.

CANCER — It’s unlike you, but today you rely on your intuition to guide you through some tricky territory, Cancer. You may be somewhat distressed by the behavior of the people close to you. You’re at a loss to understand their thinking. You will find that when you stop thinking logically and let yourself feel emotionally, you will likely gain insight into their actions.

LEO — There is considerable grumpiness in the air today, Leo. Everyone you know seems to be in a bad mood. However, you have the charm and persistence to pull them out from under that black cloud. Pay attention to any social invitations you receive, as you’re likely to make some important professional contacts if you go.

VIRGO — A recent windfall or good news regarding money could turn your thoughts to home renovation and decorating. You might do some painting or add decorative touches to the house. Even if you don’t have a fortune to spend, fresh flowers, plants, and pillows or area rugs can perk up a room. You might even shop for some new furniture.

LIBRA — Some misunderstandings could cause confusion at home today, Libra. Your natural tact and diplomacy will certainly come in handy. Artistically, you may be inspired to work on a painting or short story that’s been in your head for a while. Even though you don’t pay much attention to your artistic abilities, they may be responsible for some new career opportunities coming your way.

SCORPIO — You’re looking better than ever, Scorpio. Don’t think your mate hasn’t noticed! Even though communication may have been a bit strained lately, all that is forgotten as you delight in each other’s company. You may feel adventurous, so why not plan something a bit different for the day?

SAGITTARIUS — Your inspiration and imagination are at their peak, Sagittarius. You may want to try some kind of an artistic project. You’re sure to be pleasantly surprised by the results. You’re especially tuned in to the feelings of others, so don’t hesitate to act on your intuition. Logic takes a back seat to gut instinct today!

CAPRICORN — You’re a sensitive and caring person, Capricorn. Today you feel especially connected to your group, even those you don’t know well. Your kind nature brings healing to others and many benefits to you whether you’re aware of it or not. You should be feeling happy and upbeat. You’re physically fit, you look great, and you will be happy to spend the day socializing.

AQUARIUS — There’s a chance you will receive an early morning visitor, Aquarius. While it’s a surprise, it turns out to be a welcome one. This visitor is likely to come bearing gifts of some kind, either in the form of interesting news or encouraging words. Listen carefully, but beware of idle gossip. Take care not to spread rumors that you don’t know to be true.

PISCES — A letter, call, or visit from a lover or close friend is likely to bring interesting news your way. Your creative energies are at their peak, Pisces, so why not try writing, music, drawing, or painting? You will have to squeeze this creativity in between many errands, because the planets indicate you will take many short trips today.

DAILY BRIDGE

By FRANK STEWART Tribune Content Agency

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

“I won’t say my partner is opinionated,” a club player told me, “but he dispenses advice by the bushel and takes it by the grain.” He showed me today’s deal.

“I was South and opened 1NT. My partner used Stayman and raised my two spades to three. Naturally, I went on to game. West led the ten of clubs, and when I saw dummy, I was appalled.” East returned a club at Trick Two. Declarer ruffed in dummy, led a trump to his queen, returned a diamond to dummy’s king, finessed with the jack of trumps and cashed the ace.

LAST TRUMP

“I next led the A-K and a third heart,” South said. “East won and led another club, forcing out my last trump, and after I took my good heart, West won the last two tricks.

“My partner said he made a winning bid. I think he’s nuts.” North’s two-club bid wouldn’t have occurred to me, but South could make four spades. After his second trump finesse wins, he must play three rounds of hearts, not taking the ace of trumps. East has no winning return.

QUESTION

Q 10 4 J 5. The dealer, at your right, opens three clubs. You double,

SUDOKU

CODEWORD PUZZLE

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 through Saturday.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers to previous CODEWORD

How to play Codeword

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.

PUZZLE

and your partner bids three hearts. The opponents pass. What do you say?

ANSWER: Your double obliged your partner to act at the three level, hence you promised a hand worth at least 17 points. Since you have no more than that (and your jack of clubs is a worthless point), pass. If partner had a promising hand, he could have jumped to four hearts. South dealer