Cuts Above – Richie’s Barbershop celebrates 11 years as Santa Barbara’s best, blending sharp fades, big hearts, and local love, P.12
The Mystic Journey – With the wind at her back and students at the helm, the Mystic Whaler anchors Santa Barbara’s maritime legacy, P.20 Kaleidoscopic Sound – Kaleidoscope turns orchestral hierarchy upside down with radical teamwork and breathtaking musicianship, P.28
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
5 Ghost Village & Montecito’s Beauty – From costumed trick or treaters along CVR to Beautification Day, there’s a lot to love about Montecito
6
Beings and Doings – Jorge Hurtado’s office is a 2,700 square mile forest which may take a colorful kids book series to explain. This Wildland Firefighter has some typing ahead of him…
8 Montecito Miscellany – Un-staged love for Romeo & Juliet, FSA at the SB Senior Expo, and Grace Fisher Foundation at La Lieff
Meeting at MA – The MA tackles fire safety, cleanups, and community spirit ahead of the 40th Annual Beautification Day Tide
Our Town – From Coast Village Road to Isla Vista, Richie’s Barbershop proves success is built on
Bytes – Bettina turns seven, SBC votes out oil, Hudson Grace and Emily Joubert at Mont Country Mart, plus more happenings
16 Brilliant Thoughts – Ashleigh traces belief from biblical floods to battlefields, where faith and firepower often march side by side
18 Your Westmont – The college celebrates summer research, a new window dedicated for the prayer chapel, the Westmont Golf Classic, and women’s soccer
20 ‘Mystic Whaler’ – It’s a plane… okay, it’s a ship… and it’s actually pretty tall…in fact, it’s Santa Barbara’s official tall ship.
21 An Independent Mind – Why does rent control matter? Is it politicians? Is it property owners? We’ll let you decide…
Robert’s Big Questions – How many people showed up for the No Kings protest? And what were they trying to accomplish?
22 The Giving List – How RiteCare helped Isla and her family get the right care for speech pathology
24 Spirituality Matters – From meditating with Mozart to dancing under blacklight, local spiritual seekers are finding joy in motion and meaning In Passing – Remembering the life of Almeda May Morrison
26 Local News – California slows ships to save whales as AB14 expands Blue Whales and Blue Skies protections statewide
27 Elizabeth’s Appraisals – What is the worth and rarity of a cape? If it’s moth hole-ridden… not much.
28 On Entertainment – A self-conducting Kaleidoscope, onstage with Dvořák at the Lobero, AI acting up a storm at Carsey-Wolf, media memoirist Sandra Resnik at Tecolote… and more
29
Letters to the Editor – SB Greens on Prop 50 and rent control in the area Crime in the ‘Cito
36
Calendar of Events – Boo at the Zoo, zombies thrill dancing, a harvest block parties and a whole lot more
38
Classifieds – Our own “Craigslist” of classified ads
39 Mini Meta Crossword Puzzles Local Business Directory
Photography : @virtourmedia
Costumes & Magic in Montecito
Ghouls, Candy, & Beautification, Oh My
by Zach Rosen
The leaves may be falling off the trees (I think, we don’t have much of a fall here) but the costumes are certainly coming out. It’s Ghost Village Road time along our favorite local haunt of the Lower Village. Families, friends, and four-legged companions take part in one of the community’s most beloved traditions. The “treat train” stretches from the Montecito Country Mart to the Montecito Inn, with costumed children collecting sweets from every shop and restaurant along the way. Local businesses rise to the occasion with enthusiasm and flair – flying ghosts, rockstar skeletons, and buckets of candy line the sidewalks. Plus plenty of fun for the adults as well. What exactly is the “secret ingredient” in the signature margaritas served over at ye ole Berkshire Hathaway? Is Richie’s staff lookin’ like The Wizard of Oz? Or is it just a yellow-bricked photo op? Speaking of those, the CVA may just be pulling out its own festive photo ops? How big is that pumpkin any-weighs?
Ready to get the party started early? Join the Friendship Center for a Halloween Disco at The Community Arts Workshop on October 24. Once the kids are put away (or gently tucked into a candy come) traipse over to the San Ysidro Ranch for a touch of dressed-up Montecito style with a weeklong Halloween Speakeasy (Oct. 27–Nov. 2) of candlelit jazz and inventive cocktails, followed by a Día de los Muertos evening (Oct. 30) featuring live Spanish guitar, mezcal tastings, and traditional sugar-skull artistry.
This October let’s have a little fun playing with the space and place we love… hey, it’s Halloween… so why not bring out the costumes, kids, and furry ones…? And we have the 40th Annual Beautification Day on November 8th to get the place sparkling more than it already does… (more details on page 10) Tune in next week for more details on Ghost Village Road and the 40th anniversary of Montecito’s Beautification Day!
DESIGN BY BECKER HENSEN NIKSTO ARCHITECTS
Join the crowds for this year’s Ghost Village Road (photo by Joanne A Calitri)
And don’t forget to jump into Beautification Day on Nov. 8th (courtesy photo)
Adapted by JOE LANDRY
Directed by JAMIE TORCELLINI
Beings and Doings Wildland Firefighter Explains All
by Jeff Wing
Jorge’s nephew is a curious kid who wants to know stuff. That bodes well for the youngster growing up to be an interesting adult. One day, though, he stumped his uncle with a fairly straightforward question. “What’s your job, uncle Jorge?”
East Camino Cielo Road in the Los Padres National Forest is the northernmost boundary of the Montecito Planning Area, and that 2,700 square miles of woodland also happens to be Jorge Hurtado’s day job. But as the man smilingly tried to explain his work in the Los Padres National Forest, he found himself stammering. The more he spoke about his work, the more confused the kid got. Same thing happened with his extended family and friends. Frustrated by his inability to cogently explain his profession, Jorge Hurtado did what any sensible person would do. He began a children’s book series.
Sparky the Brave Wildland Firefighter [Season 1] sets the series up, and Year of the Hotshots [Season 2] wades into but one of the specialized roles that comprise the Wildland firefighting whole. The introductory Sparky features a team of forest animals who each take a collaborative role in battling the forest fire that is the book’s central emergency.
Sparky is a fearless bear and the group’s
de facto leader. Squirt the Squirrel races around the treetops, keeping an eye out for distant trouble. Blaze is the “speedy rabbit” whose job it is to throw water on the flames, and Ember is the wise owl who, in the throes of emergency, uses her acute vision (and handy power of flight) to guide them to the trouble spots. The beautifully illustrated book – 36 involving pages long – teaches love of nature, the surprising power of teamwork, and an affection for wildlife; all without browbeating or finger waggling. Hurtado’s way with a story is laudable: use plain speak and the simple human emotion that is food, drink, and object lesson to open hearted kids. Storytelling continues to rule Life’s lesson plan.
“I just did this just so my nephew, my family, and my friends understand my work,” Hurtado says, like writing a book was almost an afterthought. “All these years that I’ve been with this agency, they don’t know what I do,” he says, and smiles. “Now they will.”
Okay, let’s get right to it.
Wildland and Structure
You know the men and women who go tearing down the city streets on those enormous red fire engines, sirens blaring (the neighborhood dogs replying in cacophonous, howling chorus) until
Beings & Doings Page 254
Jorge Hurtado and Angeles Nat’l Forest Engine 322 (courtesy photo)
Montecito Miscellany Love Takes Center Stage: Symphony, Ballet & A Surprise Proposal!
by Richard Mineards et al.
The Granada Theatre was filled with 2,650 eager fans this weekend as the Santa Barbara Symphony and State Street Ballet launched their 2025/26 seasons with a dazzling joint production. Santa Barbara Symphony President & CEO, Kathryn R. Martin , and State Street Ballet Executive Director, Cecily MacDougall, welcomed guests and outlined each of their exciting
THE GRANADA
upcoming seasons.
Maestro Nir Kabaretti, celebrating his 20th anniversary with our fabulous Symphony, opened the season with a patriotic Star-Spangled Banner. He masterfully conducted Shostakovich’s “Festive Overture, Op. 96” and Rachmaninoff’s “Men’s Dance” from the composer’s opera Aleko before bringing together the sweeping sounds of Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet with the graceful power of top tier ballet choreographed by Nilas Martins and Megan Phillip
and EARL MINNIS p resent
Miscellany Page 354
Nir Kabaretti, Music and Artistic Director
Dancers from State Street Ballet in fine form brought Shakespeare’s
Some of the stars from the evening (photo by Priscilla)
A night of support, symphony and love at the Granada (photo by Priscilla)
Love was in the air and on stage (photo by Priscilla)
Ryan Lenkey and Saori Yamashita performing as Romeo and Juliet (photo by Priscilla)
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Meeting at MA Zone Zero, Earthcomb, and the October Board Meeting
by Houghton Hyatt
The Montecito Association’s October Board Meeting brought together local leaders, agency partners, and community members for a comprehensive update on public safety, infrastructure, and upcoming events. From recordhigh state test scores to rainfall updates and Beautification Day plans, the meeting reflected the Association’s ongoing commitment to preserving Montecito’s character and supporting its residents.
Montecito Fire Chief David Neels reported rainfall totals ranging from three-quarters of an inch near Olive Mill Road to about three inches in Toro Canyon. He discussed the ongoing four-year fire code update cycle and shared news of the proposed “Zone Zero” regulations – new defensible space requirements designed to better protect homes in high-risk wildfire zones. These state-level changes are still in draft form, with final guidance expected from the State Board of Forestry in the coming months.
From the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department, Lieutenant Rich Brittingham reported on community safety issues, including ongoing enforcement of illegal beach camping below the cemetery bluff. He announced that vehicle towing will soon begin at the Hot Springs Trailhead once proper signage is installed.
Montecito Union School Superintendent Anthony Ranii expressed appreciation for the Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office, whose presence continues to support student and staff safety. He proudly announced that Montecito Union and Cold Spring School achieved record-high state test scores, a reflection of the district’s excellence and community support. Ranii also confirmed that the lawsuit involving allegations from the 1970s has been settled with no admission of guilt or confidentiality clauses.
Montecito Sanitary District’s general manager, John Weigold, shared updates on critical infrastructure projects like the manhole lining project covering 96 manholes throughout Montecito. Planning has begun for a treatment plant renovation, expected to take about a year for design and engineering. He explained that roughly 300 parcels remain unconnected to the sewer system, mainly in hillside areas where hookups are technically challenging and costly.
From the County of Santa Barbara, Supervisor Roy Lee provided a detailed county update. Recent rains caused no major incidents, and several trail and pathway projects – including completion of the San Leandro Path, upcoming work on Santa Rosa
Lane, and reopening of the San Ysidro Trail — are progressing well. Lee highlighted several county initiatives: the Red Flag Warning Closure Program, new cannabis regulations requiring odor-control scrubbers by March 2026, and countywide efforts to streamline permit processes.
Committee updates included Leslie Lundgren from the History Committee, who shared that historic photos and maps of Montecito are being printed for display in the Association’s meeting room. Jan Rockenbach from the Outreach Committee reported an outdoor movie night in the works, and Jacqueline Duran from the Safety Response Committee discussed community interest in funding license plate readers to enhance security.
Andrea Newquist gave the Hands Across Montecito report, sharing that outreach and cleanup efforts continue in partnership with Andrew Velikanje (Earthcomb). Earthcomb is celebrating a big milestone, having removed over 500,000 pounds of debris since starting his program.
Dorinne Lee Johnson stepped down as Land Use Committee Chair following her appointment to LAFCO. And Rhonda Hathaway, with Equine Evacuation, will present to the board at the November meeting, on Earl Warren Showgrounds’ plans that could impact emergency animal evacuations in Santa Barbara County.
We invite all community members to join us at our monthly Montecito Association Board Meetings to stay informed and take part in these important conversations. The Board meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, and agendas are posted on our website prior to the meetings. If you have anything you think should be brought to our attention or would like to join the association, please contact us!
Join Us for the 40th Annual Beautification Day!
— November 8th
The Montecito Association invites the entire community to join us for Beautification Day on Saturday, November 8 at Montecito Union School. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the event, themed “Montecito’s Renaissance.” Start the morning with breakfast provided by the Rosewood Miramar, then team up with neighbors, schools, and local businesses to help make Montecito shine. Come celebrate four decades of community togetherness – and help keep Montecito beautiful!
This annual event would not be possible without our fabulous sponsors! Montecito Community Foundation, Dr. Nancy D. O’Reilly & family, Village Properties, Becker Studios, Damir Pevec, Montecito Union School, Montecito Fire Department, Rosewood Miramar, Montecito Village Grocery, San Ysidro Ranch, Marborg, Noozhawk, The Bernstein Family, Coeta & Donald Barker Foundation, Michele B., Brooke Mallers, and more!
Check out the website for more information about the event: www.montecitoassociation.org
Account Managers | Sue Brooks, Tanis Nelson, Elizabeth Scott, Jessica Sutherland, Joe DeMello
Contributing Editor | Kelly Mahan Herrick
Proofreading | Helen Buckley
Arts and Entertainment | Steven Libowitz
Contributors | Scott Craig, Ashleigh Brilliant, Chuck Graham, Mark Ashton Hunt, Dalina Michaels, Robert Bernstein, Christina Atchison, Leslie Zemeckis, Sigrid Toye, Elizabeth Stewart, Beatrice Tolan, Leana Orsua, Jeffrey Harding, Tiana Molony, Houghton Hyatt, Jeff Wing
Gossip | Richard Mineards
History | Hattie Beresford
Humor | Ernie Witham
Our Town/Society | Joanne A Calitri
Health/Wellness | Ann Brode, Deann Zampelli
Travel | Jerry Dunn, Leslie Westbrook
Food & Wine | Melissa Petitto, Gabe Saglie, Jamie Knee
Published by: Montecito Journal Media Group, LLC
Montecito Journal is compiled, compounded, calibrated, cogitated over, and coughed up every Wednesday by an exacting agglomeration of excitable (and often exemplary) expert edifiers at 1206 Coast Village Circle, Suite G, Montecito, CA 93108.
How to reach us: (805) 565-1860; FAX: (805) 969-6654; Montecito Journal, 1206 Coast Village Circle, Suite G, Montecito, CA 93108; EMAIL: tim@montecitojournal.net
Our Town Richie’s Barbershop Wins 1st Place SB for 11 Years!
by Joanne A Calitri
Richie’s Barber Shop has won first place for the eleventh consecutive year in a row as the Best Barbershop in Santa Barbara according to public voting in the annual Santa Barbara Independent’s poll!
We are definitely Montecito proud on this remarkable but not necessarily surprising win – an award so richly deserved and rooted in the shop’s owner Richie Ramirez’ most humble beginnings –which I covered when I started writing for the Montecito Journal, 15 years ago. Richie started his career as a barber at Montecito Barbers in the Montecito Country Mart. When I interviewed him then, his dream was set on owning his own barbershop. He put in the dime and the time for his Coast Village Road location. Next, with his first barber Lex [Alexis Dakin], he added a team of amazing mostly female barbers starring Jessica Jay. With that shop established and going well, he opened a second location in Isla Vista to serve the local college students, currently managed by Mariay Tsushima Richie is generous to those in need and practices paying it forward via his shops’ massive holiday donation campaigns for local nonprofits like Domestic Violence Solutions, Adam’s Angels, and animal rescue centers. His Montecito barbers frequently go to the Friendship Center Montecito to give fresh haircuts and “looks” to seniors during special events. They also do “house calls” for clients.
The Montecito shop’s annual allout decorations and celebration of Halloween for Ghost Village Road and donation boxes for the Christmas holidays are living proof of his continued involvement in the local welfare of our town. Lest we forget – one year his entire team’s Halloween costumes were in emulation of Richie, including his beard and hair!
A unique part of his persona is his devotion to staying healthy by eating well and regular workout routines. A long-time devotee of mixed martial arts and weightlifting, Ramirez won the Gold Medal in the 2024 World League JiuJitsu event and has won medals and belt levels in Muay Thai, including training in Thailand. That influence of working out is also common ground for his team, who each have their workout routines from weights to 10,000 steps. And he has even been a fashion model!
For his eleventh award, I reached out to him for a quick interview and here is what he shared:
Q. What do you do to keep the quality up at both of your shops?
A. I can maintain high-quality service at both locations thanks to my incredible team. My manager, Mariay, in Isla Vista, is a strong presence and is there most of the time, catering specifically to our college clientele. Meanwhile, I’m in Montecito five days a week, and my team, especially my barber Lex, ensures every-
Our Town Page 264
Richie’s Barbers Shop Montecito team for the win! (courtesy photo)
IT’S OK TO BRING YOUR LIFE.
News Bytes Happy 7th Anniversary Bettina
by Joanne A Calitri
Come celebrate Bettina’s 7th Birthday with a week of specialty pies, including the famous clam pie! Keep an eye out on Instagram to see which daily specials they drop.
Supervisors Vote to Begin Ending Onshore Oil in Santa Barbara County
In a 3-2 vote Tuesday, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors moved to phase out onshore oil production – marking the beginning of the end for an industry with roots in the region dating back nearly 150 years. The board voted to ban new oil well permits and begin the process of winding down existing operations, a plan that could take several years and cost the county millions. Supervisors Joan Hartmann, Laura Capps, and Roy Lee backed the measure, calling it a necessary step toward combating climate change and protecting public health. Opposing the motion, Supervisors Bob Nelson and Steve Lavagnino warned of lost jobs and economic fallout for working families. The county will next conduct studies to determine how long existing operators can remain active and how to handle financial impacts. The Montecito Journal will have more details next week.
Hudson Grace x Emily Joubert Talk
Join for a courtyard presentation and book signings with Jeffrey Allen Marks and Kathryn M. Ireland at the Montecito Country Mart near Hudson Grace and Emily Joubert stores, October 24, from 4 to 6 pm.
Montecito Country Mart News
October 1-31: Honor System Pumpkin Patch offers heirloom and organic gourds perfectly suited for your best culinary or carving aspirations. They’re keeping it simple: select your bounty, pay with cash in the drop box, card at the Trading Post, or the QR code. Open daily next to Dôen through October 31st. Halloween, October 31, 11 am to 6 pm: Costume Contest, trick/treating and a movie. The Mart invites you to a festive day of Trick-or-Treating, a Pumpkin Patch costume contest, and Movie Night – a 6 pm screening of the essential classic, Monsters, Inc
Ron Werft Named Chair of World Telehealth Initiati
Ron Werft, President Emeritus and former CEO of Cottage Health, has been elected Board Chairman of World Telehealth Initiative (WTI), a Santa Barbara-based nonprofit improving healthcare access in underserved communities across 18 countries. Founded by Dr. Yulun Wang and Sharon Allen, WTI connects volunteer physicians and nurses with clinicians in low-resource hospitals through telehealth technology, enhancing local expertise and patient care. Werft, who has served on WTI’s board since 2019, called the work “incredibly rewarding.” CEO Sharon Allen said Werft’s leadership comes as WTI prepares for “exponential growth” and its next phase of global impact.
Bettina owners
Brendan Smith and Rachel Greenspan at their one year celebration of business in Montecito (photo by Jacqueline Pilar)
Brilliant Thoughts Not A Prayer
by Ashleigh Brilliant
People who have some kind of religious feelings often believe that they can communicate with their Deity – and some even believe that their prayers can in some way influence human events, or even non-human, such as the weather. As practiced in most cultures today, there seems to be little harm in such beliefs. But it wasn’t so long ago that the practice of sacrifice was quite prevalent. I suppose it was thought that this was a way of giving something of value to the Gods and hoping for some kind of reciprocal benefit.
Eyewitness descriptions of such practices can be very unsettling. Accounts given by early Spanish explorers of what is now Mexico include descriptions of cutting the hearts out of living human victims. But our own biblical record is not so free of cutting and killing for the Lord.
As you may recall, the Bible contains a charming story about a man named Noah, who was spared when God had decided that He was so dissatisfied with the world He had created that He would destroy it with a Great Flood. According to the Biblical account, it rained for forty days and forty nights. But Noah, who was apparently a very good man, had been warned in time. Under divine instructions, he constructed a special vessel, an “Ark,” which was large and sturdy enough to contain all that would be necessary to start the whole world anew.
So, before the deluge began, the Ark took aboard all the seeds of a reborn Society. These included the male and female of every species of animal. As promised, then came enough rain to drown every living thing still on dry land.
The whole story of how the Ark finally came to rest, and Noah deciding it was safe to go ashore, is moving and dramatic – and it all makes a wonderful tale for children. But what those young people are not generally told is that one of the first things Noah did on land was to start killing and sacrificing the very animals he had done so much to save.
In warfare especially, each participating force has, throughout History, prayed for victory, and often had slogans to that effect. Crusaders carried banners saying “God Wills It.” Germans proclaimed “Gott Mit Uns.”
As you may know, the soldiers of ancient Rome carried a banner with the letters: “SPQR.” You may have thought that this was some kind of religious invocation. Actually, it was quite sectarian, and stood for the Latin words meaning:
“The Senate and The Roman People.”
One of the most notorious characters in English History was Oliver Cromwell, who ruled the country for several years, believing he was an instrument of God. To him, this justified some atrocious behavior, particularly in Ireland, where his army
behaved so ruthlessly that, to this day, in that country it is a terrible malediction to wish someone “The Curse of Cromwell on you.”
The British royal coat of arms still contains the expression, in Norman French, meaning “GOD AND MY RIGHT.”
It is also told of Cromwell that, leading his army across a river, he instructed them: “Trust in God - and Keep your Powder Dry.” The powder was of course gunpowder, of which each man carried his own supply to fire the flintlock weapon of that day.
The second part of that expression was still so well-known at the time of World World Two that it was used as the title of a movie about military nurses, starring Lana Turner. But the movie contained no explanation of the origin of the expression and left it to movie-goers to assume that the “powder” being referred to was women’s face-powder.
But a truer story from that War concerns the expression “Praise the Lord and Pass the Ammunition.” Those words were supposed to have been spoken by a Navy chaplain who happened to be on the deck of an American battleship docked at Pearl Harbor on the very day of the Japanese attack – December 7, 1941.
Instead of withdrawing to any safety he could find, this man helped to assist at one of the gun-turrets still firing at the enemy. It was in connection with this situation that the words may have been uttered. In any case, they soon became a popular song. The lyrics refer to him, using military slang for a chaplain:
“The Sky-pilot said it, and you’ve got to give him credit, For a son-of-a-gun of a gunner was he.”
Ashleigh Brilliant born England 1933, came to California in 1955, to Santa Barbara in 1973, to the Montecito Journal in 2016. Best-known for his illustrated epigrams, called “Pot-Shots,” now a series of 10,000. email: ashleigh@west. net. web: www.ash leighbrilliant.com.
guest Cory Henry Sat, Oct 25 / 7:30 PM / UCSB Campbell Hall
“Once again, the Blind Boys of Alabama prove it: Age don’t mean a thing if you got that spiritual swing.”
The Austin Chronicle 30th Anniversary
Featuring Hankus Netsky, Andy Statman and Members of the Brave Old World and Klezmer Conservatory Band and other special guests
Thu, Oct 30 / 7 PM / Granada Theatre West Coast Premiere
Wed, Nov 5 / 7:30 PM / Granada Theatre
“Preljocaj’s athletic choreography is full of swagger, strength and sass.”
The Guardian (U.K.)
Sun, Nov 16 / 2 PM / Arlington Theatre
Breast Cancer Awareness Month 5% of Sales donated in October
Owned & Operated Est. 1967
Your Westmont Summer Researchers Celebrated
by Scott Craig
More than 30 student researchers presented 20 different projects at the annual Celebration of Summer Research on Oct. 16 in Winter Hall. Many of the students worked as paid, full-time research assistants, collaborating with professors on cutting-edge projects that sometimes extend into the school year.
Providing opportunities for students to conduct significant research with faculty is a hallmark of the college’s outstanding undergraduate liberal arts education. “Westmont’s classic education features professors and students conducting research together, which provides valuable experiences that can lead to internships, jobs and rewarding careers,” says Provost Kim Denu
have implications with increasing temperature,” Jensen said.
But if mice are under the boards, does that impact the presence of snakes? “It seems like it would, but we didn’t find a relationship between that,” he explained.
Sierra Martin (‘26) conducted research about native versus invasive plant species in burned versus unburned areas with biology professor Laura Drake Schultheis. Using data collected from 2014 to 2025 at Ellwood Mesa, Martin found that native plants were more stable in burned areas, suggesting that prescribed burns could benefit native plants. “In the unburned areas, the native plant species were declining as the exotics continued to take over,” she said. “We found that native plants do better when there’s a good reset.”
Every family has a story worth telling. At Nostalgia Lane, I believe memories are priceless treasures, not just moments to remember—but gifts to hand down.
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At Westmont, about 1,300 undergraduates enjoy a student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1 and an average class size of 18, which allows them to develop close relationships with outstanding faculty who are committed to teaching, scholarship, research, service and involving undergraduates in research. Some students even co-author scholarly papers with their professors.
Mia Kenyon (‘26), who worked with biology professor Steve Julio, discovered two genes with overlapping sequences coding for a potassium transport protein, essential for bacterial virulence. Their research, “The Role of Potassium Transporters in Osmoregulation and Virulence of Bordetella bronchiseptica,” found that mutating these genes significantly reduced bacterial growth.
As part of ongoing research on island dwarfism with biology professor Amanda Sparkman, Caleb Jensen (‘27) studied the number of reptiles and island deer mice that were found under large pieces of plywood the researchers leave scattered around the Santa Barbara Channel Islands. “We did find that we had higher capture rates of reptiles in years that we had higher winter rainfall and lower temperature, which could
New Window for Prayer Chapel
Westmont dedicated a new stainedglass window during an intimate service inside the Nancy Voskuyl Prayer Chapel on October 16.
Nancy Voskuyl, a Westmont student and the daughter of President Roger and Trudy Voskuyl, died in a tragic automobile
Westmont Page 314
GIA 2.30 Carat Diamond Emerald Cut 18kt Gold Ring
Students share their summer research findings (photo by Cassidy Keinert)
David and Nancy Jackson with President Gayle D. Beebe in front of the new window (photo by Cassidy Keinert)
‘Mystic Whaler’
Santa Barbara’s Official Tall Ship
by Sigrid Toye
AHOY!
Last week the sea breeze carried more than salt air and sunshine – it carried with it a celebration! On Sunday, October 12th at the Yacht Club Santa Barbara Mayor Randy Rowse designated the 110–foot–tall schooner, Mystic Whaler, as the Official Tall Ship of Santa Barbara. Who has a replica of a seamlessly crafted 19th century coastal cargo schooner as their official tall ship? And… she’s far more than just a mariner’s fantasy. This vision of seafaring magic is actually a floating classroom whose mission is to visit harbors along the Central Coast promoting marine education, ocean conservation, environmental stewardship – with added activities to inspire and delight the young… of all ages!
“We are proud to acknowledge the nonprofit Mystic Ocean Adventures for its mission of hands–on education, introducing young people to our ocean. As a sailing ambassador and environmental steward, we are honored to claim the tall ship Mystic Whaler as our own!” stated Mayor Rowse as he presented the official
Proclamation to Sarah Chrisman and Mystic Ocean Adventures (MOA) Board President, Nancy Golden. Key members of the MOA of the community spoke: Tall Ship Captain Christine Healy, Adri Howe, Rebecca Griffin, and Greg Gorga, Executive Director of the Maritime Museum. Roger Chrisman – co–founder with his wife Sarah – spoke about the journey that brought the Mystic Whaler to California. And what a journey that was!
Almost rivaling that of Richard Henry Dana, Jr., author of Two Years Before the Mast, this journey also took time and many miles traveled. Dana’s 1835 journey as a common sailor on a merchant ship sailing from Boston to California included rounding Cape Horn and a short stop in Santa Barbara. His memoir, published in 1840, was an authentic portrayal of the seafaring lives of ordinary seamen under extreme conditions – the inspiration for the Santa Barbara Maritime’s (SBMM) original and adventurous, hands–on tall ship program. This hugely popular educational adventure combined seamanship, history, and literature for 4th to 6th grade students. The Spirit of Dana Point, a tall ship from Dana Point Harbor, served as its floating classroom. Sadly, the
Spirit was called home in 2020 when her sister ship sank.
“The Tall Ship program had been known up and down the coast for elementary kids to experience life as a sailor during the 1800s,” recalled Roger Chrisman. “The kids loved it, loved being at the harbor, some of whom had never been to the ocean!” Chrisman and his wife Sarah, long time Maritime Museum supporters, stepped in to find a replacement. Thus began their own lengthy journey – believe it or not, in Mystic, Connecticut – not all that far from Dana’s starting point in Boston. Their choice, the Mystic Whaler, had been an educational vessel, built in 1967 and retired in 1990, with 3,000 square feet of sail, overnight accommodations with a steel hull and a diesel engine. What a find!
On the recommendation of Greg Gorga, Christine Healy was welcomed aboard as captain. “Hiring Christine was the best decision we ever made, plus she had experience on tall ships!” Sarah Chrisman exclaimed. And with a first task to sail to California...how’s that for a starter? Eager to begin, Healy hired a crew and planned the voyage down the Atlantic coast, through the Panama Canal and up the Pacific coast and into the Channel Islands harbor. The only difference between Mystic’s journey and that of Richard Henry Dana are the extended extras of rounding the Cape Horn and a two-year sail – not saying that the acquisition of the Mystic Whaler was any less lengthy! Realizing that the tall ship was a huge asset, Mystic Ocean Adventures – a 501c3 nonprofit – was formed and its vision expanded to include the California coast with a focus on Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.
The program is now conducted by MOA’s team in partnership with SBMM. These extensive programs are a subject
for another column as they represent an innovative educational model, based on the proven fact that practical application and lived experience deepen and strengthen understanding and retention of newly learned concepts. Sailing and navigating a traditionally rigged tall ship such as Mystic Whaler intrinsically offers nautical skills with the application of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) academic principles. The challenge of handling such a sizable vessel is also the perfect medium for social/emotional learning. Stepping out of their comfort zones young sailors learn effective communication, teamwork, courage, and self–discipline without the benefit of modern sailing technology and their Smart Phones.
“ Mystic Whaler offers young people an innovative and unique platform that truly provides lifelong benefits,” remarked Captain Healy. The Proclamation by the City of Santa Barbara affirmed Mystic Whaler’s mission as a nautical bridge between past and future, land and sea, designed to shape young lives for generations.
The Mystic Whaler has been designated the Official Tall Ship of Santa Barbara (courtesy photo)
And these kids are happy about it! Plus their education! (courtesy photo)
And Mayor Rowse agrees too! (courtesy photo)
Sigrid Toye is an Educational and Behavior Therapist with a PhD in Clinical Psychology, a freelance writer, and a storyteller. She loves all things creative, including her two (adult) artist children.
An Independent Mind
Rent “Stabilization”
Is Another Word for Rent Control
by Jeffrey Harding
“Newspeak” is a term from George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984 by which a word means something other than what it says. For example, in newspeak “ungood” was substituted for “bad.” In 1984 it was a means of thought control. Our bureaucrats often use newspeak words like “revenue enhancement” instead of tax increase. People hate tax increases so government officials try to make it sound not so ungood.
The majority of the Santa Barbara City Council is pushing forward with rent control but they use the newspeak term “rent stabilization.” “Stabilization” sounds much better than “control.” Who doesn’t want something stabilized? The opposite of “stable” is “unstable” and as we all know something that is unstable is bad.
I get that people renting apartments would like to have rent control. Rents have gone up a lot recently as the councilmembers pointed out. None of the councilmembers supporting rent controls actually discuss why rents are going up. And the majority Councilmembers ( Harmon , Gutierrez , Santamaria , and Sneddon ) who are pushing rent control really don’t care about the why. They just want to put the lid on rent increases, damn the consequences. I know they have heard all the arguments why rent controls are a bad idea but politics gets in the way of reason. And they are all about politics.
One of the main reasons rents are so high here in beautiful Santa Barbara is that everyone wants to live here and there aren’t enough apartments to go around. I just counted the number of apartments for rent in the City. Only 81 for a population of 87,000. The vacancy rate is very low, about 2.0% to 3.0%.
Why are there so few apartments relative to the population? Because:
- City building requirements and the planning process make it difficult to build here.
- Land and building costs are much higher here.
- The threat of rent control deters developers from building.
The bottom line is that Santa Barbara is seen as a tough place to build.
The problem with rent controls is that in the long run they make things worse for renters. Everywhere rent controls have been implemented have resulted in a reduced supply of housing (no one moves), have made it more difficult for low income renters to find and qualify for rentals, existing housing deteriorates as rents can’t cover costs (depending on the ordinance), higher income renters generally end up as the tenants, and a new expensive bureaucracy is created to enforce the ordinance. I’m not making this up. There are many well-documented studies to support this.
Why have rents increased so much? Aside from the fact that we don’t have enough apartments, operating costs have gone way up for apartment owners. From my own experience with commercial real estate, insurance costs for example have tripled in the last five years. Inflation, tariffs, interest rates, labor, maintenance, and materiel have all gone way up. It costs money to run a property.
This is not the fault of landlords, yet they are blamed for trying to make money owning rental property. Investing in real estate is not a charity or public service for tenants. Just try it. It’s not so easy.
The housing problems here are homemade. If you want to cast blame, blame ourselves. We have a city that is not Los Angeles and we wish to keep it that way. We support building restrictions to keep our Shangri-la quaint. We don’t like “progress” and we vote in politicians who promise to keep it that way.
So if we are to blame landlords, and rents go up because of a lack of supply, and if apartment owners need to make a profit to keep up with costs they can’t control why are we punishing them? This is a social problem not a greedy landlord problem. If we force landlords to subsidize renters then we are shoving society’s responsibilities onto their backs instead of ours. Is that fair? Obviously not. If we were honest we would tax ourselves to fund rent subsidies. But we’d rather blame landlords.
This is why rent controls are pernicious. We have leftist politicians who haven’t a clue about economics or the results of rent control. They think they can just pass a law, buy votes, and everything will be wonderful. Yet it is those who benefit today from rent controls who will eventually suffer the consequences of these failed policies. But our politicians just don’t care.
Robert’s Big Questions No Kings/Love America Rally
by Robert Bernstein
Seven million Americans rallied across the country on Saturday to declare “No Kings” for a second time. A reference to Trump ruling lawlessly by executive order since January.
Under the Constitution the president only has two minor powers. He does not legally get to send masked thugs to kidnap and deport people without a hearing. Nor to declare protesters a “domestic terrorist organization.” No power to hire and fire civil servants or withhold money that Congress has appropriated. No power to impose tariffs. Trump can only act like a lawless tyrant if the people allow it.
My YouTube video of the Santa Barbara march runs 27 minutes of people filling the street curb to curb.
Congress Member Salud Carbajal emphasized Trump’s attempt to steal the 2026 Congressional election by getting Texas to gerrymander their voting districts. His message: We all need to vote NOW for Proposition 50 to fight back here in California.
Assembly Member Gregg Hart repeated that message and added the urgency of the situation: That Trump has weaponized every branch of government to carry out his personal vindictive plans.
Immigrant rights advocates Julissa Peña and Primitiva Hernandez spoke about the terror that the Trump Administration has created for our fellow Americans without documentation. Many of these Americans have lived here for decades with no path to documentation.
They emphasized that the terror Trump’s masked ICE agents are creating in our community extends to everyone, even citizens. Trump has openly talked of deporting citizens who challenge him.
Jenna Tosh of Planned Parenthood explained how Trump’s attacks on Planned Parenthood are actually attacks against health care for poor women in our community.
The final speaker was a researcher at UCSB explaining how Trump’s attacks on scientific research are aiding our global competitors like China.
Trump is terrified of this massive show of dissent. So his administration preemptively put out disinformation, claiming that the entire event is a “Hate America” rally. Which led to many signs of love for America and many American flags on display.
Trump issued an executive order declaring “antifa” to be a domestic terrorist organization. But there is no such official designation as a “domestic terrorist organization.” And there is no such organization as “antifa.” “Antifa” is just short for “anti-fascist.” My father’s uncles landed on the beach in Normandy to fight fascism in 1944. They were “antifa.” Is Trump next going to declare veganism a “domestic terrorist organization”?
I was blown away by all of the creative and fun inflatable characters at the rally. This started in Portland as a fun way to diffuse the vicious attacks by Trump on their laid-back city. The attacks even included tear gassing one of the peaceful protesters in an inflatable frog outfit.
We had frogs, space aliens and sharks. A raccoon, a unicorn, an axolotl. An inflatable king of the dinosaurs, T-rex urged us to “Make Kings Prehistoric”! I recognized friends who are not usually political, who turned out to protest the current dire situation.
Even the dino agrees with the axolotl (photo by Robert Bernstein)
The axolotl says “No Kings” (photo by Robert Bernstein)
The Giving List
RiteCare
by Steven Libowitz
Sam Benon apologized for the pauses and tightness in his voice barely a minute into our conversation about how The RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Santa Barbara changed his young daughter’s life over the last two-plus years.
“I get a little emotional because after struggling for so long, the growth we’ve seen with her has been tremendous,” he said. “We would not have had that level of success without RiteCare. I always get choked up.”
Isla Benon was born in 2019, “A true COVID baby,” her dad said. “Pretty quickly, we suspected that there might be some kind of speech delay. But it was hard to get the right kind of help.”
The family brought her to a doctor, who referred them to Tri-Counties Regional Center, but it wasn’t working out.
“She was at a preschool and she was having a lot of issues communicating,” Benon said.
Montessori didn’t work out either. It wasn’t until they tried The Oaks ParentChild Workshop that they began to get effective help.
“The community opened our eyes to the support that we were looking for,” Benon said.
Most importantly, one of the families mentioned RiteCare as an avenue for speech services, recommending the organization’s Camp Chit Chat, a summer program that is often an entry point as well as a continuation for tod-
dlers with speech and language delays, whose struggles to express themselves can lead to frustration and exacerbate behavioral and social difficulties as they get older.
Chit Chat is a fun and socially interactive camp to support young children in keeping up with essential communication skills, placing them in small groups of two-to-three with same-aged peers who are also working on similar skills including articulation, language, fluency and social communication.
“We found out about it the day of the signup deadline, frantically submitted our application, and somehow she got in,” Benon said. “It was amazing.”
Once fall arrived, Isla started one-toone treatment with Speech-Language Pathologist and RiteCare Center Director Julie DeAngelis, who quickly recognized that the assessment the young girl had received from the school district might be missing something. DeAngelis conducted the more thorough CELF assessment and uncovered that Isla had a receptivity delay that was a deeper cause of her issues.
“We didn’t understand before why Isla wasn’t processing,” Benon said. “We’d talk to her, but she often didn’t respond at all or in a way that made sense. Getting that assessment allowed us to understand how to take her out of a highly stimulating environment to make sure that she’s hearing and processing what is being said so she can respond appropriately to instructions or questions. If we didn’t have that, we would’ve been treating a problem that wasn’t the bigger issue.”
But over the course of Isla’s first year working with DeAngelis and RiteCare, the Benons saw a natural progression in Isla’s ability to respond and formulate sentences. Perhaps even more important, she began connecting more to other children that she’d previously avoided.
“Once she started to find the words through RiteCare, the whole world of language just opened up like an explosion for her,” Benon said, once again with a catch in his voice.
Part of the RiteCare program’s success, he said, is the involvement of parents, something not available in most other environments. Parents can not only listen in on the treatment sessions but also are participants in the homework assignments to help their child continue to develop and grow.
“I’m learning from it too,” Benon said. “This thing called whole body listening is just a mind-blowing tool set. I’m using a lot of the techniques in my own life.”
Isla aged out of the RiteCare program after Camp Chit Chat this past summer, as well as The Oak Parent-Child Workshop. Evidence of her growth came at the latter’s graduation event.
“Isla gave an impromptu speech where she said so succinctly and clearly that
everybody was moving on, some going to new schools with friends and others by themselves,” Benon said. “Then she said, ‘But together we are brave, we are strong.’ Everyone was excited to see how far she’d come. It was a wonderful closure to her preschool career and transition into kindergarten at Santa Barbara Charter School.”
But Benon himself is still involved with the nonprofit as a board member, where his duties often consist of enthusiastically paying forward the introduction his family received at The Oaks.
“My wife Lauren and I have referred at least half a dozen families to the program,” he said. “We talk about it nonstop. The fact that it’s free just blows my mind. So when they asked me if I’d be interested in the board, I said sure. I tell everyone under the sun about the program anyway. If I see a child having similar challenges that Isla went through, I suggest they look into RiteCare. There’s no shame, only understanding. The more that parents can look outward and realize that there’s a world of opportunities and possibilities and services out there, the better. I can’t say enough good things about RiteCare and how they changed our lives.”
Isla with Julie (right) and Summer from the annual fundraising event (courtesy photo)
Tue, Nov 4 / 7:30 PM / Arlington Theatre
“One of the country’s keenest political observers.” Foreign Affairs Civil Rights Lawyer and Former President of
Fri, Nov 7 / 7:30 PM Arlington Theatre
“David Sedaris is an icon of indignation in a world that keeps on irking.” The Guardian (U.K.)
Reimagining a New American Democracy
Thu, Nov 6 / 7:30 PM / UCSB Campbell Hall
“Sherrilyn Ifill is a dazzling intellectual with an uncommon ability to analyze and frame the urgent civil rights issues facing our nation.” – Bryan Stevenson
National Book Award-winning Poet
Thu, Nov 13 / 7:30 PM / UCSB Campbell Hall
“A
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Santa Barbara Favorite
Spirituality Matters
Music and Meditation at the Music Academy
By Steven Libowitz
Carpinteria-based Jessica Kolbe, a Qigong/Tai Chi teacher and meditation guide, teams up with Santa Barbara pianist Antonio Artese for the debut of a series of intimate events where guided meditation meets live classical music. This journey of silence, breath, and sound, invites participants to quiet the mind to let the music in more deeply, and takes place from 2-3:30 pm on Friday, December 5, on the campus of the Music Academy of the West. The series is designed to open the senses and deepen people’s connection with music; the concept holds that by preparing the mind through meditation, each concert opens a door to heightened awareness, emotional connection and inner peace. No meditation or musical experience is necessary.
The audience, limited to a maximum of 60 people, will encircle the performers in the minimal and softly lit environment at Weinman Hall, creating an atmosphere of focus and serenity to enhance intimacy and immersion in the program. Each one-hour installment includes a welcome and introduction, the guided meditation, a musical performance, and time for closing reflections. Artese will perform solo pieces by Bach, Grieg, Scriabin and Silvestrov. The event ends with sipping tea and further connection, including an invitation to the guests at the prototype to share feedback and help shape the forthcoming season.
Meanwhile, Kolbe is also marking the 10-year anniversary of her TVSB show, Qigong with Jessica Kolbe, which has been proclaimed a vital service to the community.
Check www.TVSB.tv for up-to-date scheduling, or stream anytime at https://tvsantabarbara. org/livestreaming.
Visit www.JessicaTaiChi.com and https:// musicandmeditationsb.com for details
Big Doings at Bodhi Path
Bodhi Path Santa Barbara hosts special visiting guest Lama Jampa Thaye for a weekend course on November 1-2, when he will be teaching from Atisha’s The Jewel Rosary of a Bodhisattva, an important Mahayana text that offers both inspiration and practical guidance for the Bodhisattva Path. The Jewel Rosary distills the essence of the Bodhisattva’s training – uniting wisdom and compassion – and describes the qualities, practices, and stages of development that lead to awakening for the benefit of all beings. The text is clear and accessible for those new to Buddhist study while also offering profound depth for experienced practitioners, serving as a concise manual for living with altruistic intention. Lama Jampa will open the treasury of teachings, showing how its timeless message continues to illuminate and support our practice today. The classes take place 10 am-2:30 pm both days, with an hour lunch break.
Visit https://ezregister.com/events/42390.
Just days later Dawa Tarchin Phillips, the resident teacher of Bodhi Path Santa Barbara, begins one of the center’s relatively rare non-residential retreats, entitled The End of Suffering In a world of seemingly endless striving and subtle or more overt dissatisfaction, the promise of the end of suffering feels both ancient and revolutionary. The retreat, slated for November 6-10, offers
Spirituality Page 314
In Passing Almeda May Morrison: March
8, 1933 – September 24, 2025
Almeda May Morrison was born on March 8, 1933, in South Hadley Massachusetts, and lived a remarkable life filled with love, adventure, and family. She passed away peacefully on September 24th at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and cherished memories.
Almeda grew up in Massachusetts and pursued her education at Dana Hall and Wellesley College, where she developed a love of learning that she carried throughout her life. At a mixer at Wellesley she met a Harvard student, J. Roger Morrison, who became the love of her life, and they were married in New York city in 1955. Together they embarked on a journey that took them across the Atlantic to England in 1962, where they built a rich and fulfilling life for 70 years.
Over the years, Almeda created homes that reflected her elegance and generosity of spirit — from Chelsea in London and Chiddingfold in Surrey to the sun-drenched coasts of Sardinia, the turquoise waters of Windermere Island in the Bahamas, and their beloved residence in Montecito, California. Each place held its own chapter of family gatherings, celebrations, and the simple joys of daily life.
Her greatest joy was her family. Almeda and Roger raised two children, Joanna May Morrison and Roger Albert Morrison, who, along with their families, brought her immeasurable pride and happiness. She was a devoted grandmother to Katherine, Nicholas, Charles, and Alex, and her heart overflowed with joy at the arrival of her great- grandson, Jackson
Those who knew Almeda will remember her for her graciousness, her sense of adventure, and the way she created a home where everyone felt welcome. She carried herself with quiet strength and elegance, but also with warmth, humor, and a deep love for those around her.
Almeda May Morrison: March 8, 1933 – September 24, 2025
they reach the building engulfed in a bale of roaring fire, at which point the firefighters surround, battle, and defeat the conflagration with pressurized city water? Well, he’s not one of those guys.
“So wildland firefighters are pretty much working with wildland, like the forest. Anything that doesn’t have to do with structures and vehicles. So we just focus on the forest or brush.”
Reader, we live in an astoundingly beautiful, many-faceted paradise whose nature it is to periodically burst into flame. To our good fortune, these highly trained firefighters are specialized. Urban firefighters, sometimes called structural firefighters, rush toward and often into burning buildings and other constructed things swaddled in flame. Wildland firefighters work in the outback – forests, meadows, ravines, prairies – where the “structures” are trees and grasslands. How might this differentiation manifest in a real time situation? Hurtado lays it out.
“We help the city and county, but in those cases have a specific role to play there. So as an example, if there’s a vehicle fire on Highway 154, we’ll show up and throw water on the vehicle, but we don’t have the equipment – like the SCBAs (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) and other heavy equipment. So once we tame the vehicle fire our priority in this example is the brush. We will be there to prevent the fire from getting into the brush on the 154.”
Why wouldn’t a wildland firefighter
be given a breathing apparatus? Because wildland work involves lots and lots (and lots) of hiking into fairly impassable reaches at times, and a certain lightness on the feet is critical to attaining these remote, fire-prone places. Packing an SCBA tank and some of the other heavier equipment structural firefighters use would be dangerously fatiguing. wildland firefighters carry hand tools like shovels, chainsaws, hoes, fire rakes, and lightweight axes.
And whereas a structural firefighter is typically responding – to a structural fire, a vehicle fire, an injurious traffic accident, a hazmat emergency – a wildland firefighter’s gig also has a pre-emptive component. These can include clearing brush, managing vegetation, cutting fire breaks, and effecting controlled burns in the wild to reduce available wildfire fuel; that is, addressing the fire before it appears. And yeah, for a wildland firefighter this work all typically takes place in the proverbial Middle of Nowhere. The scenery in these far-flung places can be breathtakingly beautiful when not riven with towering geysers of flame. And sometimes even then, one can imagine.
When a wildland fire occurs, of course the wildland firefighter’s job is to contain and extinguish the fire, but once a wildland fire has been put out, the wildland folk set to raking and tilling through the burned aftermath to assure there are no lingering hotspots, such as the one now thought to have sprung back to life and caused the devastating Palisades firestorm. wildland firefighters will also work, post-fire, to repair and manage fire-ravaged lands to mitigate erosion and flooding that might cause a secondary cataclysm.
Hurtado’s Odyssey
Jorge Hurtado works for the U.S. Forest Service. Why? Since when?
“A friend told me about wildland firefighting. He just said, ‘Hey man, I’m applying. You should apply too.’ And I was like, what is that? I had no idea what the green engines were or any of that stuff. I got hired as a seasonal in 2016, and he did, too.” This inaugural training and experience was as a seasonal wildland firefighter on the Cleveland National Forest near San Diego. Having got a taste of the wildland firefighter life, Hurtado was all in.
“I applied to work on the Angeles, and then that’s when I got hired as a permanent in 2018.” Since 2023, Hurtado’s territory is Los Padres National Forest.
The wildland fire organizational structure is department-based, each complementary role augmenting all the others.
“That’s what I’m doing. All the different departments in the Forest Service, I want to hit every one of them. Each one will get its own book,” Hurtado says.
Aviation, Fire Management, Smokejumpers, Engine Crews, Hand Crews, Dozer Operators – Wildland Firefighting has many interlocking aspects which beg the colorful explanation unique to children’s nonfiction. Hurtado is in fact being shamelessly lobbied by colleagues in various Forest Service departments.
“I get messages from everybody. ‘Can you please do dispatch? Can you please do dozers? Aviation?’ Patrols want their own book…” No rest for Hurtado the scribe. Everyone wants to be understood, particularly those whose work may not be as widely known or appreciated. Hurtado found something that captured him; work on behalf of his friends, neighbors, and inquisitive strangers.
“I just want people to know what wildland firefighters are,” he says. “Honestly, that’s my goal. I’m not going to say my books are inspiring kids, but ever since I started this, I’ve been getting messages and pictures of kids saying they want to be this when they grow up. ‘I want to be a Hot Shot.’” Hurtado smiles and shakes his head.
“That’s a hundred percent cool.”
Jeff Wing is a journalist, raconteur, autodidact, and polysyllable enthusiast. He has been writing about Montecito and environs since before some people were born. He can be reached at jeff@ montecitojournal.net
ON THE SIDE
BELGIAN ROYALS AT MIRAMAR
From The Santa Barbara Morning Press— Oct 12, 1919
King Albert and queen Elizabeth of Belgium were observant of many items of interest along the route to Montecito and asked questions relative to the large beds of kelp lying a short distance out from the beach. This morning their majesties, accompanied by Prince Leopold, will attend solemn high mass at the Old Mission. Somewhere around noon, or a little later, King Albert will take a horseback ride on Uhlan, the world’s champion trotter, owned by C.K.G. Billings of Montecito. In the meantime, Queen Elizabeth plans a jaunt to the beach at Miramar and may also take a dip in the surf. She will be attended by her ladies in waiting.
X-RATED MONTECITO
FROM SANTA BARBARA NEWS-PRESS – DEC 12, 1973
Theordinance states that nudity is now a misdemeanor at all beaches, parks and private property exposed to public view or the view of private residences. The ordinance is backed by citizen groups in Montecito and Summerland. Parade Magazine, the New York Times, and others have featured articles on the Santa Barbara beaches, and one person said Amtrak passengers have dubbed the route through the “Montecito-Summerland area” as “the only X-rated train trip.”
Jorge on Dalton Hot Shots crew, Shaver Lake in the Sierra National Forest (courtesy photo)
Jorge with Dalton Hot Shots, living up to the name (courtesy photo)
thing runs smoothly in my absence. I believe it’s this consistent hands-on approach that helps us uphold the quality across both shops.”
What keeps you inspired in your business?
My inspiration comes from a variety of sources. First and foremost is our incredible community, whose strong support motivates me to give my best every day. I’m also excited by the ever-evolving trends in our industry. I strive to avoid stagnation and keep things fresh. Additionally, my diverse team inspires me, as our different backgrounds and perspectives fuel creativity and innovation. The drive to stay engaged and active in the community truly keeps me motivated and energized!
How many barbers do you have on staff at Montecito? And at Isla Vista?
Ten at the Montecito shop, and 10 at the Isla Vista shop.
Knowing how much you love island getaways, do you plan to open up a third location – Fiji, Greece… Hollywood?!
I’m open to growing my brand! Anywhere on the California coast…
What’s one piece of advice you would give to new business owners seeking success?
My advice to new business owners is to invest the necessary time and effort, especially in the early days, which often
means long hours. It’s crucial to lay a solid foundation. Additionally, focus on building a strong team; without my dedicated team, I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today.
Upon winning his award, Ramirez posted on social media, “A heartfelt thank you to everyone who cast their votes! It’s our incredible community that has helped us achieve the title of Best Barber Shop for 11 consecutive years. Thank you for 15 years in the business!”
411: @richiesbarbershopsb and @richiesbarbershopiv
Local News SBC Blue Whale Law Goes Statewide
by Joanne A Calitri
What appears to be a huge gain for environmental and coastal organizations statewide is the signing into law of CA AB14, “California Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies Program” (BWBS), by Governor Gavin Newsom this past week. The bill asks ocean vessels traveling along the California coast drop to lower their speeds to protect California’s ocean animals, especially our blue whales, humpbacks and seals. This law, however, is not a mandate but a voluntary incentivized request.
The writers of AB14 –Assemblymembers Gregg Hart, Steve Bennett, and Damon Connolly – claim that reduced speeds will reduce these incidents by 50% and as a byproduct also reduce vessel pollution, smog forming nitrogen oxide emissions, and underwater sounds [think engines and radar] that are known to disrupt ocean animals and wildlife, even to the extent of throwing many ocean mammals offcourse. And they have statistics from 2014 to prove it.
Blue Whale migration along the California coast is primarily a search for feeding grounds, not to give birth. The coastal zones subject to the AB14 are northern and southern California water zones and the newly added 2024 Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary zone. The Chumash zone is America’s 17th national marine sanctuary, the sixth off the U.S. West Coast, and is one of the largest in the National Marine Sanctuary System – 4,543 square miles of central California coastal and ocean waters.
Incentives for shipping companies to adhere to and support the new laws include publicity, and annual tiered
awards which entitle them to add the BWBS seal of approval to their business. Press statements from Hart’s office say there are, “…44 shipping companies that support the bill, and the list is growing.” To be clear, the BWBS legislation has been in effect since 2014 in parts of California, and now is statewide.
In 2023, known awardees in northern California with top tier awards were: Orient Overseas Container Line, Mediterranean Shipping Company, Swire Shipping, Yang Ming, COSCO Shipping, NYK Ro_Ro, Wallenius Wilhelmsen, and CSL Group. A caveat is that CA AB14 requires a report to the CA Legislature on its implementation by December 31, 2029.
The sad, long history of ocean animal “strikes” by cargo ships and other vessels – in what became known as the “highway lane” offshore – may now hopefully be just that; “history.” One can recall in the early 2000s when the late Fred Benko’s Condor Express whale watching vessel – that is still run his widow Hiroko Benko – would pause before crossing the ocean shipping lanes in the SB Channel to make certain it could make it across without any collisions. Commentary on social media in response to the AB14 BWBS includes law makers suggesting the need to ban cruise ships as well in the Santa Barbara Channel.
In 2023, the World Cetacean Alliance designated the creation of the Santa Barbara Channel a Whale Heritage Area, which is the ninth such designation worldwide that celebrates the protection of marine mammals in local waters. The area is co-managed by marine biologist Holly Lohuis, a collaborator with JeanMichel Cousteau since 1999.
411: https://a37.asmdc.org
Richie’s Barbers Shop Isla Vista team for the win! (courtesy photo)
Richie Ramirez wins the 2024 Jiu-Jitsu Gold Medal (courtesy photo)
Assemblymember Gregg Hart celebrating the passage of AB14 to protect endangered whales and reduce harmful emissions along the coast (courtesy photo)
Elizabeth’s Appraisals
Vintage Capes
by Elizabeth Stewart
CSsends me a vintage cape with rabbit trimmed fur on cashmere. She wonders if the tiny moth holes suggest that it is NOT worth the price tag of $120. Does the historical value trump the rarity value? The answer is NO – late 19th century capes are not rare!
The cape has been part of history – as protection from the weather, and as marker of status, style, or rank. By virtue of its shape in fabric, a cape can cover anything from Batman’s shoulders to Jackie Kennedy’s inaugural sleeveless silk chiffon gown. Capes also have many names. Here are a few, and what the names mean:
a. The Roman toga: a square piece of fabric fastened at the neck, signifying rank and status, often called a pallium
b. The Greek chlamys, fastened at the shoulder
c. The Aztec tilmatli, worn as a sign of status by emperors, priests, warriors
d. The Medieval chaperon, a shoulder-cape with hood worn for warmth and ease of movement, often concealing a sword
e. The Renaissance Spanish cape, short and adapted by all wellborn Europeans in the 15th century. Homes were so cold, these capes – often trimmed in fur – were designed to be worn both inside and outside the house
f. The Victorian Opera Cape, worn loosely so as not to crush a gown
g. A fashionable wrap called the Cocoon Coat worn by fashionable women in the 1930s
h. The “M1938” rubberized adoption of the U.S. Marines Cloak
These are just a few of the terms and usages of the cape or cloak. These names can signify power, invoke royalty, indicate religious fervor or chaste modesty, or can refer simply to functionality – all in one garment. For example, King Charles of Great Britian wore three different capes or cloaks for his coronation.
And so did other members of the Royal Family, including the children.
Fashion magazines such as British Town and Country covered the high fashion capes in the 1920s and 1930s (the cape CS sends me is earlier in fashion history, circa 1890). Great designers such as Jeanne Lanvin designed a cape to go over an evening gown, which she called “Moonlighting”; a marvelous piece with beading upon rich fabric. Slightly later, in the 1930s, Elsa Schiaparelli was commissioned by Elsie de Wolfe to design a cape made to echo the colors of her garden interpreted in beading. In 1950-60 the beautiful American-born Italian countess, model, and fashion editor, Consuelo Crespi, wore a magnificent cape to Truman Capote’s Black and White Ball.
I’ve already mentioned the voluminous, white silk floor length cape Jackie Kennedy wore to her husband’s Presidential inaugural ball. All these capes were Big News in the fashion world.
After the 1930s, pattern maker McCall Bazar made patterns modeled after Lanvin and Schiaparelli that anyone could sew. A cape was, after all, not complex to make, and oh so elegant. French cape styles were accessible to anyone.
Over the years, capes have had different names referring to the different lengths
and uses of the garments. A capelet is a short cover, typically covering the shoulders and upper arms. A mantelet is a scarf-like covering popular for years (~ 1730 - to the 19th century), a scarf neck covering. The paletot is a sort of topcoat with many collars and is worn to protect against rain. The pelerine is a short, shaped shoulder cape. A palatine is a silk or lacy cape often worn over a negligee to add a layer of warmth, particularly during the late 17th and 18th centuries.
The cape since the Greek times have largely reflected social standing: think of the Red Cardinals’ capes witnessed in the choice of the Pope, and the evocative procession of the Cardinals through the Sistine Chapel. No one could forget the power of the cape in that setting.
When trimmed in fur, such as sable or mink, the cape was a form of status, and trimmed in rabbit or fox, a lower status. Color matters: scarlet for Popes, black for Judges, white for virgins, blue for modesty.
The main market driver for vintage and collectible capes is the KIND of fur used to trim. What was once popular –and plentiful – in the late 19th century is abhorrent today: capelets with pelts of Abyssinian or Colobus monkey fur of Central America. Those you will not be able to sell, and in fact they are banned to trade in some cases. However, the 20th century capes by the great designers are of huge value. I suggest looking for the labels and steering away from fur.
My answer to CS’s question? Is the cashmere cape trimmed with rabbit dating from the 1890s worth $120? Not with moth holes! No.
Elizabeth Stewart, PhD is a veteran appraiser of fine art, furniture, glass, and other collectibles, and a cert. member of the AAA and an accr. member of the ASA. Please send any objects to be appraised to Elizabethappraisals@ gmail.com
The cashmere cape trimmed with rabbit
WENDY GRAGG
On Entertainment Kaleidoscope
by Steven Libowitz
TD’ANGELO BREAD
Kaleidoscope will perform at Hahn Hall on Monday, October 27 at 7:30 pm (courtesy photo)
housands turned out in Santa Barbara and across the country for last Saturday’s No Kings rally protesting the increasingly autocratic administration in Washington. So it feels important to point out that there are no kings in the Kaleidoscope Chamber Orchestra, meaning no music director, no artistic director, not even a conductor. Everyone who is part of the ensemble more or less serves in all of those roles, as the ever-evolving and personnel-rotating Los Angeles-based collective takes collaboration to a new level.
That’s been among the chief values that first drove clarinetist Benjamin Mitchell to form the Kaleidoscope Chamber Orchestra back in 2014, along with his difficulty in landing a position in a professional symphony that would let him make a living in the area – despite his holding three graduate degrees in clarinet from prestigious institutions.
“The initial impetus was wanting to perform at a very high level and have this very collaborative democratic (repertoire) selection and rehearsal process without a conductor, like what a string quartet does, which really wasn’t being done in Southern California at the time,” Mitchell recalled. “Most of the orchestras were doing things in a pretty similar way with their programming and their process.”
So after spending a year or so freelancing – including his first professional orchestral gig after returning to L.A. from Europe in 2013 with the Santa Barbara Symphony – the clarinetist decided to become an entrepreneur.
“I shared with some musician friends my vision of creating a self-conducted orchestra where all the musicians would have equal say, be able to discuss the music and decide on the tempo and interpretation, etc. Usually in a professional orchestra, there’s one person in charge, which creates a very big power difference between the conductor, almost always a man, and everyone else. You can’t say in the middle of the cello section, ‘Maestro, I’m sorry, I don’t agree with your interpretation.’ That would be insubordination.”
While it’s less efficient, the format allows for everyone to share ideas about the music, which in turn makes them more committed to the performance.
“It brings the musicians together in a really special way, even though the rehearsal process can be a little chaotic or messy. But people have to really collaborate to make it work, so musicians will generally have to study the score a lot more, have more visual interaction, and be listening across the whole orchestra and in a way that sometimes they don’t when there’s one person in the front waving a baton.”
Soon after forming the group, Mitchell realized he wanted to expand the egalitarian concept to the orchestra’s potential audience, considering the question of who they wanted to share music with and why. Kaleidoscope quickly developed partnerships with Title 1 schools, hospitals, homeless shelters and retirement communities, where they still generally perform about 75 percent of their concerts at no cost to attendees.
The “what” question also arose regarding the repertoire, which led Mitchell and colleagues to not only put considerable focus on living composers, but also meet a value for diverse and inclusive programming – a very unusual process that periodically asks composers from around the world to submit compositions for the orchestra to consider performing.
Over the years, Kaleidoscope’s call for scores resulted in concerts that featured works by then undiscovered composer Viet Cuong, Gabriella Smith, Christopher Cerrone, and Emma O’Halloran, among many others, all of whom the ensemble later commissioned.
Kaleidoscope also began appearing regularly at Hahn Hall by 2017, performing three to four times each year, often as the last performance of each program because the ensemble also posts videos of many of its concerts recorded at the venue on its YouTube channel.
Entertainment Page 304
Letters to the Editor
Santa Barbara Greens - NO on Prop 50
Proposition 50 would temporarily repeal the Citizens Redistricting Commission that California voters created in 2008. California Democrats are expected to win five more Congressional seats than they currently hold. Because gerrymandering is not compatible with democracy, one of the Green Party’s Key Values, the Green Party of Santa Barbara County strongly opposes Prop 50.
In any democracy, voters must be able to choose their representatives, rather than politicians picking which voters they want in their districts. Under Prop 50, any Democrat or Republican who is moved into a district with a large majority of the opposing party voters would have their voting power minimized.
Currently the distribution among California’s 52 Congressmembers is: 43 Democrats, 9 Republicans, 0 Greens and others. If Prop 50 passes, Democrats would take over 5 Republican seats with 48 Democrats, 4 Republicans, 0 Greens and others.
In contrast, the actual distribution of voters is 45% Democrats, 25% Republicans, 22% Decline to State, and 7% Others. In statewide elections, Greens routinely get from 2% to 4% of the vote.
The Green Party believes the best solution to ensure all Californians’ votes count, would be to change all our legislative elections to a Proportional Representation system. Under Proportional Representation, 2-4% of Green votes would translate into 1 or 2 House seats for Greens, while Democrats would win almost twice as many seats as Republicans. Everybody’s vote would count, including rural Democrats and urban Republicans.
All Americans need to stand up to defend what little democracy we have left, this Prop 50 scheme is a move in the opposite direction.
Donna Pulling
Rent in Santa Barbara
Montecito needs to be informed that Santa Barbara City is doomed unless financially literate, math proficient business people are identified and elected to upcoming open seats in Districts 4, 5, and 6. These three representatives have each termed out. Why should we care?
D4 includes what many think is Montecito, but is actually City: Coast Village Road businesses and residences, lower Hot Springs Road, most homes along Alston Road, plus Eucalyptus Hill, the Riviera to San Roque. D4 has the highest number of voters in owner-occupied homes.
D4’s elected Rep. Kristen Sneddon is the activist pursuing local rent control at 60% CPI, more public housing exempt from property taxation that is essential to fund municipal services plus our failing SBUSD K-12 schools – our three high schools and four junior highs. Please closely review recent test scores: the 2026 SBUSD graduating class is only 18% math proficient! We are not producing financial literates. Unlike our two local highest revenue elementary schools, SBUSD revenues approximate $19,000 per student. (In 2011, to infuse $6M into the cash-strapped SB Elementary District, SB K-6 elementary was unified with 7-12 secondary high schools. Unification has proven a mistake for Montecito.)
Beyond our high schools, we each remain acutely aware disasters know no boundaries. The City’s Reserves for disasters and the unexpected are near depletion. Broke, Council cannot stop spending! It gifts money it doesn’t have to protect and provide for illegals; to create a dysfunction maze and narrowing of streets; and to waste money on staff time pursuing regulations and projects like rent control that it can’t afford to enforce. Until recently, its reserve fund has been sustained by a supplemental $20M from the federal government in 2021.
At last week’s meeting, Mesa’s D2 Rep. Michael Jordan stated, the City’s Housing policies are actually Economic Ordinances.
A public commenter remarked, “compassion is not sustainable,” by government. In response, Rep. Sneddon said: property owners are our partners. Sneddon, probably the richest person on that dais in the district least impacted by Council edicts adds: “Increase revenues. We need to increase fees, create new fees.” Sneddon wants “no people, pay, or positions cut! Rather cut capital projects.” Note: Kristen and her County public works husband are compensated around $750,000 annually by taxpayers with guaranteed lifetime pensions. Check it out: county, City, SBCC https://transparentcalifornia.com/
Rent stabilization was PAUSED to the end of the year, it did not “Fail” as per Noozhawk’s headline. It will be pushed by D4 Rep. Sneddon in the coming weeks. The anticipated positive of rent control is limited growth. Lack of water previously justified limiting growth which I quickly learned when moving here in February of 1980 from Northern California.
Local rent control, a rent registry, and then an ordinance mandating spare bedroom rentals are real possible mandates.
CRIME IN THE ‘CITO Sheriff’s Blotter 93108 . . . .
Burglary / 900 block Ladera Ln
Monday, October 6, at 07:50 hours
Reporting party (RP) called to report jewelry and money are missing from the residence. RP/ Victim believes it was taken the previous day while the home was unattended for one hour.
E-Bike Failure to Stop / East Valley Rd/Sheffield Rd
Wednesday, October 8, at 10:18 hours
An unknown individual riding an electric dirt-bike fled deputies after failing to yield for a traffic stop.
Narcs & Felony / Serafin Way/Serena Ave
Wednesday, October 8, at 17:08 hours
Deputies pulled over a vehicle, which was associated with a narcotics investigation, for an extinguished rear brake light and expired registration tag on the license plate. The driver was approached and a records check revealed he had a felony warrant. Subject was arrested for his outstanding warrant.
Deputies contacted vehicle that was displaying fraudulent registration tags. Driver was approached and it was discovered that he and the vehicle occupants were smoking marijuana. Subject had an outstanding warrant and was arrested. It was determined that passengers to whom he was providing marijuana in his vehicle were both juveniles. During a search of the vehicle marijuana paraphernalia were located. In addition, a machete was stashed between the driver seat and center console. Subject was arrested for his violations, as were the juveniles who were in possession of marijuana. Both provided false names and dates of birth and were released to adults with a complaint report to follow.
Suspected Drugging / Polo Fields
Friday, October 10, 21:31 hours
Deputies responded to a call in which the victim believed she had been drugged. The victim stated that she had consumed only two mixed drinks but began feeling unusually intoxicated. She believed that an unknown subject who was near her group of friends may have placed something in her drink.
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Additionally, the County and/or City may add a supplemental tax to ‘non-owner occupied’ homes which comprise a noteworthy portion of housing inventory: five of seven homes on my street.
As D4 and aspiring 2026 Mayor Candidate Sneddon said: property own-
ers are our partners – local government’s source of revenues to fund what we don’t want or need. Santa Barbara became known as “paradise” because of the incredible generosity of philanthropists. Voters need to be informed. Denice Spangler Adams, Montecito
The new season at Hahn begins on October 27 with music by Kaija Saariaho, Caroline Shaw, Sam Wu, Fabien Waksman, David Baker, and Robert Schumann, all smaller scale pieces that represent the musicians’ broad taste and range.
Continuing financial challenges – especially since the pandemic – means Kaleidoscope needs to charge for performances in regular venues, but the initial core values including democracy and diversity are not only still valid, they have extra resonance in the last eight months.
“Part of what’s kept me going personally and keeping the organization going is everything that’s happening in the world now,” said Mitchell, who now enjoys a thriving freelance career in Europe and the U.S. “We’re hoping people will be inspired by our process to work together in more civil and collaborative ways themselves.” Visit www.kco.la
Classical Corner
Hahn Hall is back in action again on October 29 as Camerata Pacifica plays on a rare Wednesday evening for the local launch of “Beethoven 32,” its momentous three-year cycle featuring principal pianist Gilles Vonsattel performing all 32 of Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas. Vonsattel dives right in, beginning the cycle with the “‘Hammerklavier,’ Sonata No. 29 in B-flat Major, Op. 106,” considered among the most demanding and monumental pieces in the solo piano repertoire. He’ll also play Chopin’s “Nocturne No. 11,” preceded by Mozart’s “Wind Serenade in E-flat Major, K.375.” Visit www.cameratapacifica.org.
Heiichiro Ohyama, the former maestro of the now-defunct Santa Barbara Chamber Orchestra, returns to the Lobero stage for a second “Music Dialogue” event on October 23, when the violist will be joined by SBCO alumni Amy Hershberger, Elizabeth Hedman, Erick Rynearson, and Paula Fehrenbach. The quintet will discuss, rehearse, and experiment with the first movement of Dvořák’s beloved “American” String Quintet in front of the onstage audience, then perform the piece in its entirety, followed by a Q&A. Tickets and details at www.lobero.org.
The Santa Barbara Chamber Players, which partly stepped into the SBCO gap, play their season opening concert on October 25 at First United Methodist Church downtown, with Westmont’s Daniel Gee conducting and works by Beethoven, Kodály, Prokofiev, Mendelssohn, and Haydn on the program, the latter two with the Westmont College Choir. Visit https://sbchamberplayers.org.
AI and Film: Thoroughly Modern Tilly and Beyond
It’s either a coincidence or perhaps an inevitability that the controversy over Tilly Norwood broke just weeks before UCSB’s Carsey-Wolf Center (CWC) is set to mark the launch of its multi-year research initiative – on Media Industries and artificial intelligence – this Saturday, October 25. Tilly, a fully AI-generated virtual actress, developed from work of professional performers without their permission or compensation, has provoked the ire of Hollywood actors and unions, but “she” only just scratches the surface of what the initiative aims to investigate.
“Everyone in the industry is interested in understanding what the impact of AI is going to be on the media industries, on film, television, gaming and streaming, and considering the implications on labor, production, pre-production, post-production, marketing – the impact on everything that we do, including the cultural, political and economic effects,” said Ross Melnick, the UCSB film prof serving as CWC’s interim director since the summer. “The event is to have a dynamic conversation at the center to bring in people who are practitioners, journalists, scholars, those who are working with this technology and already seeing the changes.”
Accordingly, the launch event opens with remarks by CWC founding Benefactor (and Montecito resident) Dick Wolf, leading to a panel moderated by Melnick and featuring Jennifer Howell, chief creative officer at Deep Voodoo, Matt Stone and Trey Parker’s innovative synthetic media and entertainment company that blends machine learning with human talent to provide storytelling tools for creatives; Rick Rosen, a co-founder of Endeavor, now WME Agency, who oversaw the agency’s television division in addition to heading the broadcast, sports broadcast and golf divisions; Elliot Wolf, Dick Wolf’s son and co-founder of Wolf Games, a generative entertainment company that builds cinematic games personalized to the player with major IP partners across the entertainment spectrum; Ian Krietzberg, who covers the business of AI for Puck Media Company; and UCSB film prof Lisa Parks, director of the Global Media Technologies and Cultures Lab at UCSB.
The free event kicks off the longer project, the CWC-funded convocation which brings together a global group of researchers around media industries and AI. The venture will look into the what and why and far-reaching implications of the rapidly-developing field as it relates to the media space, Melnick said.
“We wanted to talk to people who are seeing not just what’s happening now, but
can forecast years down the road what that might mean for actors and directors and writers and producers, as well as audiences and those who engage with media,” he said. “What does it mean for the way we think about our world, because so much of film and TV is both a reflection on and an influence on our world. There are whole sets of legal and other challenges as well as ethical conversations.”
That’s all part of the longer-term project, one that is changing much faster than the phenomena academics might typically study.
“Our longitudinal approach of research is necessary because as soon as people identify what needs to be studied, the technology and its impact continues to change. A multi-year period allows us to essentially create a history of the present, and actually create a documentation of the present and future.”
If that sounds like a huge undertaking for just a two-hour event, well, blame the non-AI audience members.
“The human attention span has gotten shorter,” Melnick said. “We’re trying to deliver a packed dynamic conversation because we’ll get to some key issues, and then, hopefully, it’ll still be cooking when people start to hit their capacity to listen. It’s better to leave people wanting more.”
Visit https://www.carseywolf.ucsb.edu.
Focus on Film: Not Too Shabby
SBIFF has announced two of its major award winners for the 2026 festival. Adam Sandler joins some very esteemed company in receiving the festival’s 2026 Maltin Modern Master Award, its highest honor, on February 5; cementing his transition from Saturday Night Live comedian to an actor. Sandler’s significant dramatic range is in full evidence with this year’s Jay Kelly, the latest from director Noah Baumbach. Sandler, who counts two Golden Globe Awards, five Emmys and three Grammys (but no Oscar nods) among his accolades, might just change that come January. The actor also reprised the title character in Happy Gilmore 2 this summer.
Michael B. Jordan, who received the fest’s Virtuoso honors for his breakout collaboration with director Ryan Coogler Fruitvale Station in 2014, and was presented with the Cinema Vanguard award in 2019 for blockbusters Black Panther and Creed II, gets SBIFF’s second prestigious honor in the Outstanding Performer of the Year Award on February 12 for his performance as twin brothers Smoke and Stack in Coogler’s Sinners In the meantime, SBIFF’s Cinema Society has amped up its screening schedule of Oscar hopeful films at the Riviera, as happens every top-flight festival season to clarify the picture (pardon the pun). Films followed by discussions with filmmakers are happening almost every evening and are open to non-CS members, pending capacity. This week’s focus is on foreign-language films, including Magellan, Philippines’ entry for the Academy Awards, with writer-director Lav Diaz (October 23); Nia DaCosta’s modern reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s Hedda, and conversation with the writer-director-actresses Tessa Thompson and Nina Hoss (October 24); Japan’s Oscar entry Kokuho with production designer Yohei Taneda (October 25); Palestine 36, a historical fiction that is the state’s Academy entry, with director Annemarie Jacir (October 26); and Happy Birthday, Egypt’s entry, which explores classism in modern-day Cairo, followed by a conversation with writer-director Sarah Goher (October 28).
Highly anticipated feature film events next month include Hamnet with Oscardecorated writer-director Chloé Zhao (Nomadland) on November 8; Frankenstein with writer-director Guillermo del Toro (November 9); Sentimental Value, the latest from writer-director Joachim Trier (November 13); and Bugonia, Yorgos Lanthimos’ new Emma Stone entry, on November 15. Visit https://sbifftheatres.com/cs.
Book ’em
Santa Barbara Reads aims its clip-on light at The Magic Fish, Trung Le Nguyen’s graphic novel that unfolds a heartwarming tale about the stories that shape who we are. In a meta moment, the journey involves books the young protagonist borrows from his local library to help him as he struggles to explain what he’s going through, navigating life through fairy tales to tackle tough subjects in a way that’s accessible for readers of all ages.
Free print copies are available in English and Spanish at the central library’s kickoff celebration 5-6:30 pm on Friday, October 24, outdoors on the Michael Towbes Library Plaza. Copies will also be handed out on request while supplies last at all SBPL locations; ebooks and digital audiobooks are available in English. Guests will have an opportunity to contribute to a community art piece with local artist Veronica Sanchez, and register for upcoming SB Reads book clubs, workshops and special events.
Sandra Resnik, a third-generation resident of Santa Barbara, presents her new autobiography (released on May 5), Then the Phone Rang: My Journey from Hitchhiking Hippie to the Hollywood High Life, at Montecito’s Tecolote Book Shop at 3 pm Saturday, October 25. Resnick, who writes as “Sandy Pearl,” will share stories of her journey and transitions and sign copies of the book.
an opportunity to explore that timeless truth in a deeply experiential and contemporary way, through guidance by transformational Dharma teacher Phillips; both a neuroscientist with advance degrees and former Buddhist monk who completed two traditional three-year meditation retreats within the Vajrayana and Mahayana traditions. In Phillips’ approach, the retreat is rooted in the Buddha’s original insights yet illuminated by modern science, inviting participants into a direct experience of freedom – from the habits of mind and heart that perpetuate stress, confusion and self-contraction. Through meditation, inquiry, and guided dialogue, retreaters will learn to recognize suffering at its subtle origins and discover practical pathways to awakening that not only bring genuine peace and clarity but activate the vast innate potential for wisdom, compassion, creativity, and resilience that are already within. More details and registration at https://ezregister.com/events/42465. Both events will be in person at the Bodhi Path Center in La Cumbre Plaza, and also available online via Zoom. Visit https://bodhipath.org/centers/sb.
Diving into Death to Expand Life
Elysabeth Williamson , a Santa Barbara-based, internationally recognized teacher – and author of The Pleasures and Principles of Partner Yoga – has been deeply inspired by the transformational possibilities she has witnessed through the contemplation of death. This weekend, Williamson leads a day-long workshop at the Santa Barbara Yoga Center called “Exploring the Great Mystery and Befriending Death,” created to help
participants explore and contemplate death with care in a safe and sacred setting, and to awaken the courage to live our lives with greater meaning and purpose. The October 26 event will create a safe space to honor feelings, cultivate a new relationship with death and discover what truly matters for each of us. Supported by live healing soundscapes from Margery McSweeney , participants will be guided through practices that nourish the body, mind and spirit, including Savasana, the ancient Yogic practice for death, which teaches us how to align ourselves in ways that encourage the deepest release and restoration on every level of our being.
Visit www.elysabethwilliamson.com or www. sbyc.com.
Soup Spooks Tricks for Ecstatic Dance
Ecstatic Santa Barbara held its last outdoor dance of the year earlier this week. Fortunately, the gatherings now move indoor to a monthly dance at Yoga Soup, with a special extra entry set for Friday, October 31. All Hallow’s Eve: A Dance Between Worlds is for those seeking a non-traditional Halloween experience, where music and movement blur the edges between the seen and unseen. Following a blindfolded connection warm-up, two DJs will employ deep, pulsing rhythms to support the exploration of weirdness, creativity and play as the dance floor glows under black light. At the same time, the center’s lounge will host other activities, including tarot card readings, crafted elixirs, snacks, UV paints, and a photo booth.
Visit www.ecstaticdancesb.com or www. yogasoup.com
Westmont (Continued from 18)
accident in 1959 on Sycamore Canyon Road. To honor her, the college built the Nancy Voskuyl Memorial Prayer Chapel in the heart of campus. More than 60 years later, the college decided to replace the dated original window and replace it with a series of images.
The Voskuyl family was not only understanding and supportive of the project, Jane Voskuyl Jackson (‘65), Nancy’s sister, and her husband, David, generously offered to create a new stained-glass window, “Station XV: Resurrection” by Scott Parsons
At the dedication, Nancy read and reflected on a touching poem that had been sent to the family from a student following Nancy’s tragic death.
Golf Classic a Hole Lot of Fun
Under sunny skies with temperatures in the 80s, about 30 foursomes of golfers drove toward victory with the goal of raising scholarship funds for Westmont students at Glen Annie Golf Club. The 14th annual Westmont Golf Classic awarded top golfers and offered unique raffle prizes, including Scottie Schefflerautographed golf flags.
dinner to celebrate. The 14th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, known for many years as “Will’s Tourney,” began in 2008 to celebrate the memory of a special alum, Will Wiersma.
Homecoming Win for Women’s Soccer
Two goals in the second half gave Westmont women’s soccer a come-frombehind, 2-1 victory over the Eagles of Biola on Oct. 18 in front of a large Homecoming crowd at Thorrington Field.
“What a fun, fun game to come out with the win,” said Westmont’s head coach Lauren Matthias, “especially on Homecoming Weekend. We had a lot of our women’s soccer alumni join us for coffee and breakfast with the players before the game, for our pregame devotional, and for the pregame talk. They sat in on some of our traditions we do before the game. It was such a sweet moment to marry the past with the present. That set the table for the day.”
The Warriors fly to Honolulu to play Hawai’i Pacific on Thursday, Oct. 23, and then at Chaminade on Saturday, Oct. 25.
The foursome of Dr. Michael Behrman, Alex Nizet, and Mallory (‘26) and Matt Hopper finished with the lowest score of the scramble-format golf tournament. They purchased plenty of mulligans and 100 feet of string, which brings their ball closer to the hole, to ultimately finish 18 holes in just 38 strokes.
Every golfer enjoyed a complimentary Chick-fil-A lunch at the course, followed by a fantastic tri-tip and chicken
Shotgun Start: Westmont Golf Classic 2025
Amelia Villa scores the game winning goal (photo by Kyler Hansen)
Scott Craig is manager of media relations at Westmont College
NOTICE OF PENDING ACTION BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
This may affect your property. Please read.
Notice is hereby given that the Director of the Planning and Development Department intends to take an action to approve, app rove with conditions, or deny an application for a Amendment for the project described below. At this time it is not known when this action may occur; however, the earliest this action may occur is on the eleventh day following the date of this notice indicated below.
PUBLIC COMMENT: A public hearing will not be held on this matter. Anyone interested in this matter is invited to submit written testimony in support or opposition to the proposed project 24AMD-00003. All letters should be addressed to Planning and Development, Planning and Development, 123 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara 93101-2058, Attention: Keanna Lam. Letters, with two copies, should be received in the office of the Planning and Development Department a minimum of 24 hours prior to the earliest date of action by the Director identified above.
To receive additional information regarding this project, and/or to view the application and plans, or to provide comments on th e project, please contact Keanna Lam at Planning and Development, 123 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara 93101-2058, or by email at lamk@countyofsb.org, or by phone at (805) 568-2074.
PROPOSAL: BIRNAM WOOD GOLF CLUB AMENDMENT
PROJECT ADDRESS: 494 CROCKER SPERRY DR, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93108 1st SUPERVISORIAL DISTRICT
DATE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR ACTION: On or after 10/23/2025, the Director of the Planning and Development Department intends to approve this Amendment for the development described below, based on the ability to make all of the req uired findings and subject ot the terms and conditions.
PERMIT NUMBER: 24AMD-00003
007-390-038, 007-510-014, 007-510-015
ZONING: 2-E-1
PROJECT AREA: 12.69
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Applicant: Birnam Wood Gold Club
Proposed Project:
APPLICATION FILED: 3/25/2024
The project is a request for an Amendment to the Birnam Wood Golf Club Conditional Use Permit (05CUP-OOOOO-00074) to allow the following: Four (4) new non-corporate memberships, with total membership increasing from 800 to 804; Renovate 1,798 SF of the existing gym and an construct an addition of 2,533 SF; Demolish the existing 1,757 SF pro-shop; Construct new 2,900 SF golf and tennis shop; Construct new 1,996 SF pool, 129 SF spa, a 1,376 SF pool equipment and restroom structure, and a 965 SF snack bar; Demolish the existing 593 SF pool; Remove 345 LF of driving range netting and fence; Replace 476 LF of 6-foot tall driving range fence with 20-foot tall netting; Validate a 215 SF as-built security building and a 296 SF as-built shed; Reconfigure parking lots and add 43 new spaces for a total of 205 spaces; Relocate an existing easement associated with Packing House Road; and Landscape and hardscape improvements. Grading will include 4,000 cubic yards of cut and 2,750 cubic yards of fill. A total of 22 trees (10 cork oaks, 3 pines, 3 ficus, 2 canary palms, 1 cypress, 1 eucalyptus, 1 queen palm, and 1 loquat) are proposed for removal. The parcel will be served by the Montecito Water District, the Montecito Sanitary District, and the Montecito Fire District. Access will continue to be provided off of Crocker Sperry Drive. The project scope involves 3 parcels zoned 2-E-1 and shown as Assessor's Parcel Numbers 007-390-038 (9.92 acres), 007-510-015 (1.48 acres), 007-510-014 (1.29 acres), located at 494 Crocker Sperry Drive in the Montecito Community Plan Area, First Supervisorial District.
APPEALS:
The decision of the Director of the Planning and Development Department to approve, conditionally approve, or deny this Amendment 24AMD-00003 may be appealed to the Montecito Planning Commission by the applicant or an aggrieved person. The appeal must be filed within the 10 calendar days following the date that the Director takes action on this Director Action. To qualify as an "aggrieved person" the appellant must have, in person or through a representative, informed the Planning and Development Department by apropriate means prior to the Director Action of the nature of their concerns, or, for good cause, was unable to do so.
Appeals must be filed with the Planning and Development Department online at https://aca-prod.accela.com/sbco/Default.aspx, by 5:00 p.m. within the timeframe identified above. In the event that the last day for filing an appeal falls on a non -business day of the County, the appeal may be timely filed on the next business day.
This Amendment may be appealed to the California Coastal Commission after the appellant has exhausted all local appeals, therefore a fee is not required to file an appeal.
CHALLENGES: If you challenge the project 24AMD-00003 in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised in written correspondence to the Planning and Development Department.
For additional information regarding the appeal process, contact Keanna Lam.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Information about this project review process may also be viewed at: https://ca-santabarbaracounty.civicplus.pro/1499/Planning-Permit-Process-Flow-Chart
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: KAY’S VISUALS, 1477 Santa Ynez Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013. KATHRYN L MATTHEWS, 1477 Santa Ynez Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on September 29, 2025. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2025-0002258. Published October 23, 30, November 6, 13, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ESSENCE EMBROIDERY, 421 Ventura Road, Santa Maria, CA 93455. GERARDO C BUENROSTRO, 421 Ventura Road, Santa Maria, CA 93455. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on September
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SWIMMING PIG MERCANTILE, 7931 Rio Vista Drive, Goleta, Califo 93117. AMY H BOYLE, 7931 Rio Vista Drive, Goleta, Califo 93117. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on October 10, 2025. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2025-0002339. Published October 23, 30, November 6, 13, 2025
24, 2025. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2025-0002226. Published October 23, 30, November 6, 13, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: STRATEGIC HEALTH CONSULTANTS, 131 Olive Mill Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 931082402. CHRISTOPHER V LAMBERT, 131 Olive Mill Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93108-2402. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on October 10, 2025. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct
copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2025-0002350. Published October 23, 30, November 6, 13, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: YOUR SB NOTARY; YOUR SB MOBILE NOTARY; SUMMERLAND NOTARY; MONTECITO NOTARY; HOPE RANCH NOTARY; THE MESA NOTARY; GOLETA NOTARY; CARPINTERIA NOTARY; SAMARKAND NOTARY; LA CUMBRE NOTARY; SAN ROQUE NOTARY; GOODLAND NOTARY; USCB NOTARY, 3815 State Street, Suite G139, Santa Barbara, CA 93105. RACHEL ANNE QUITTNER, 3815 State Street Suite G139, Santa Barbara, CA 93105. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa
Barbara County on September 11, 2025. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2025-0002132. Published October 16, 23, 30, November 6, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LITTLE SHELLS, 89 Depot Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93108. SIERRA V CASTRO, 89 Depot Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93108. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on October 3, 2025. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a cor-
rect copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2025-0002294. Published October 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE COWBOY WAY BBQ, 80 Zaca St, 62, Buellton, CA 93427. DANIEL J PLACENCIA, 80 Zaca St 62, Buellton, CA 93427. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on September 19, 2025. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2025-0002200. Published October 2, 9, 16, 23, 2025
(Condensed Notice for Publication)
NOTICE INVITING SEALED BIDS
2025 SEWER MAIN CIPP LINING BID NO. 2025-01 MONTECITO SANITARY DISTRICT
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Montecito Sanitary District (“District”) will receive sealed bids, electronically, for its BID NO. 2025-01, 2025 Sewer Main CIPP Lining (“Project”), by or before Tuesday, November 4th, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. through its PlanetBids portal. All associated documents, including bonding information, shall be submitted with the bid. Bidders must be registered on the District’s PlanetBids™ portal in order to submit a Bid Proposal and to receive addendum notifications. Each bidder is responsible for making certain that their Bid Proposal is actually submitted/uploaded with sufficient time to be received by PlanetBids prior to the bid opening date and time. Large files may take more time to be submitted/uploaded to PlanetBids so plan accordingly. The receiving time on PlanetBids’ server will be the governing time for acceptability of bids. Telegraphic, telephonic, electronic, and facsimile bids will not be accepted. Bidders are responsible for obtaining all addenda from the District’s PlanetBids portal. If any Addendum issued by the District is not acknowledged online by the Bidder, the PlanetBids system may prevent the Bidder from submitting a Bid Proposal.
The date and time for receiving bids shall be extended by no less than 72 hours if the officer, department, or Project Manager issues any material changes, additions, or deletions to the invitation later than 72 hours prior to the bid closing. Any bids received after the time specified above or any extension due to material changes shall not be considered responsive.
Bid results and awards will be available on PlanetBids immediately following the bid opening date/time. Bids shall be valid for sixty (60) calendar days after the bid opening date.
Project Description: The Project entails pipeline rehabilitation of approximately 6,020 linear feet of 21 -inch diameter vitrified clay pipeline (VCP) and 335 linear feet of 8-inch diameter VCP via cured-in-place-pipeline (CIPP); and manhole rehabilitation via epoxy coating. The Project is located within the Montecito Sanitary District Boundary and the County of Santa Barbara, California. The Project will require permits from the County of Santa Barbara, Caltrans, Union Pacific Railroad, as well as coordination with Private Property Owners for manhole access through District easements. The District is obtaining the encroachment permits from all three agencies above; however, the Contractor will be required to pull permits for the project work and to adhere to the permit requirements issued by those agencies.
Project documents for the work are available to prospective bidders through the District’s PlanetBids Portal : website at www.montsan.org/bids.
In accordance with the provisions of California Public Contract Code § 3300, and Business and Professions Code § 7028.15(e), the District has determined that the contractor shall possess a valid Class A contractor’s license and be registered with the California Department of Industrial Relations at the time that the contract is awarded. Failure to do so shall render a bid as non-responsive and shall bar award of the contract to any bidder not possessing the specified license at the time of the award.
(Public Contract Code § 20103.5 and Labor Code § 1725.5)
Pursuant to California Civil Code § 9550, a payment bond is required to be submitted for all projects estimated in excess of $25,000.00.
The proposed project is a public works project subject to the skilled and trained workforce requirements of the Public Contracts Code §§ 2600 – 2602, as well as to the provisions of Labor Code § 1720 thereby requiring the Contractor to pay the prevailing wage rates for all work performed under the Contract. In addition, the Contractor shall be responsible for compliance with the requirements of Section 1777.5 of the California Labor Code relating to apprentice public works contracts.
To the extent applicable, at any time during the term of the Agreement for the proposed project, the successful bidder may, at its own expense, substitute securities equivalent to the amount withheld as retention (or the retained percentage) in accordance with Public Contract Code § 22300.
The District reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
There will be a mandatory pre-bid conference on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at 10:00 a.m at the Montecito Sanitary District Board Room, 1042 Monte Cristo Lane, Santa Barbara, CA 93108. Bidders must attend this pre-bid conference as a requirement for submittal of a bid proposal
If you have any questions, please contact the District’s Engineering Manager, Bryce Swetek, P.E., at bswetek@montsan.org
MONTECITO SANITARY DISTRICT
John Weigold General Manager
PUBLISHED:
• PlanetBids: October 10, 2025
• Montecito Journal, October 22, 2025
FALL ISSUE 2025 ON STANDS NOW!
beloved Romeo and Juliet to life. Ryan Lenkey and Saori Yamashita portrayed the star-crossed lovers. There was an undeniable chemistry between the two dancers which made this writer wonder if they might be involved in real life. I was moved to tears and delightfully surprised when Ryan dashed off stage and quickly returned to open a ring box, dropping to one knee to propose to his beautiful co-star amidst the swell of a standing ovation. She said, “Yes!”
Cultural enthusiasts included Sarah and Roger Chrisman, Dan and Meg Burnham, Barbara Burger, Cheryl Goldberg, Marta Holsman Babson, Dr. Nicole Callahan, Tim Mikel, and Janet Garufis - Maria McCall
FSA Shines at the 34th
Annual Santa Barbara Senior Expo
The 34th Annual Santa Barbara Senior Expo, powered by Family Service Agency (FSA), lit up the Earl Warren Showgrounds with energy, services, and community spirit. More than 120 engaged exhibitors came together to offer support to over 1,000 local seniors. The event was a real celebration of aging well – providing in-home care solutions, flu shots, COVID vaccines, blood pressure checks, diabetes screenings, eye tests,
home safety consultations and even free haircuts, to name just a few of the offerings. Having helped organize early senior fairs back in the late ‘80s through the SB Parks & Recreation Department, it was inspiring to see how the Expo has evolved.
Today’s event buzzed with energy: live music from the Dixie Daddies and Mamas, Goleta Swing Band, and Ukulele Lulus kept spirits high, while virtual travel and wellness demos informed and entertained. A standout was Family Service Agency’s Caregiver Café – a welcoming space offering one-on-one support, referrals, and guidance for caregivers. Also drawing attention was the American Indian Health & Services Corp. Mobile Mammogram unit, where CEO Scott Black and CFO Jeff Martinez led tours. The agency also provided A1C glucose testing, blood pressure checks, and nutritional counseling – all under the guidance of Chief Medical Officer Dr. Marie Yamamotoya
At the core of this success story is the powerhouse team of staff and volunteers that organizes and runs the entire event. Special recognition goes to Lyn Shirvanian of FSA, whose leadership and passion continue to elevate the Expo year after year, and to Jeanne West , longtime Senior Care Consultant and co-chair, who’s been a guiding force for over 30 years. A heartfelt thank-you also goes to the volunteers – Yardi Systems, T-Mobile,
Super volunteers: Linda Sessler, Teressa Johnes, Carole MacElhenny, Marni Cooney, LaShon Kelley
Cox Communications, Montecito Bank & Trust, LEON, the SB Promotores Network and the nursing students from SBCC and Westmont College, whose tireless efforts – from exhibitor checkin to mobility assistance – made the day run smoothly. A huge shout out to Glen Novack at Moving Miss Daisy for providing carts to aid in unloading all the exhibitor swag. Truly, the SB Senior Expo is one of Santa Barbara’s most cherished events for seniors, caregivers, and the community.
Sightings included FSA’s CEO Lisa Brabo , Easy Lift’s Ernesto Paredes , Easter Moorman of VNA Health, Giselle Dorado of Mission Park, Cheyanne Brooks with COX Communications, Ivan Castelo with U.S. Bank, Stephanie Granados from CenCal Health and fabulous event emcee David Moorman
Grace, Guitars & Good Vibes at La Lieff
Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone came alive as the Grace Fisher Foundation hosted a vibrant fundraiser at La Lieff Tasting Room. Friends, family, and supporters gathered to celebrate the Foundation’s recent City of Santa Barbara Art Business Award and kick off ticket sales for the upcoming Winter Music Showcase.
The evening buzzed with good wine, warm spirits, and soulful tunes from Meghan Downing , a visually impaired music therapist whose acoustic mix of country, folk, and pop delighted the crowd.
At the core of the night was the inspiring story of Grace Fisher, who founded the organization after a rare illness left her paralyzed at 17. Today, her foundation champions inclusion, creating opportunities in music, dance, and the arts for people of all abilities.
Jana Brody, director of development and operations, welcomed guests and shared the Foundation’s mission. With part of the wine sales supporting GFF, the night proved that celebration and impact go hand in hand.
- Maria McCall
Lyn Shirvanian, Jeanne West, Maria McCall and Lisa Brabo (photo by Priscilla)
Gretchen Lieff (left) and Grace Fisher (center) helping host the evening (photo by Priscilla)
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Calendar of Events
by Steven Libowitz
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23
Getting Downs for Day of the Dead – Lila Downs, the multiple-Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning icon known for both a powerful, singular voice, and magnetic stage presence, returns to town this time for a vibrant celebration of Día de Muertos. The singer-songwriter, who was raised in Minnesota and Oaxaca, fashions compositions that often combine genres and rhythms as diverse as Mexican rancheras and corridos, boleros, jazz standards, hip-hop, cumbia and North American folk music – and sings in Spanish, English and various Native American languages such as Zapotec, Mixtec, Nahuatl, Maya, and Purépecha. Her lyrics frequently focus on social justice, immigration and women’s issues. For this current concert, Downs delivers her deeply personal and festive interpretation of the Mexican holiday that also features mariachis and dancers to further evoke the rich spirit and color of Day of the Dead on both sides of the border.
WHEN: 7:30 pm
WHERE: Arlington Theatre, 1317 State St. COST: $48-$93
INFO: (805) 963-9589/www.arlingtontheatresb.com/upcoming-events or (805) 893-3535/https://artsandlectures.ucsb.edu
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24
Zounds! Zombies Abound – Every year, World Dance for Humanity (WD4H) hosts Santa Barbara’s Thriller spooktacular, a free family-friendly dance party and performance that is part of “Thrill the World,” a global participation event that takes place around the world on the Saturday before Halloween. Expect to see 100 dancing zombies in truly eerie makeup and costumes who will rise up in unison at the Courthouse Sunken Gardens, casting away inhibitions to dance a version of Michael Jackson’s steps from his huge hit Thriller (the original televised performance co-choreographed by the late Michael Peters). The event begins with an hour-long dance party with DJ music to get the crowd up and moving before the WD4H dancers, who have been practicing for more than a month, take center stage – or rather lawn – to perform the iconic routine for the full duration of the song. The organization also puts together flash mobs throughout Santa Barbara County leading up to today’s event and through Halloween, and the community is invited to join. Proceeds from sponsors and donations go to the Nicole Greenwood Rwanda Education Fund and the Westside Boys & Girls Club.
WHEN: 2 pm community dance; 3 pm “Thriller” performance
WHERE: Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Gardens, 1100 Anacapa St.
COST: free
INFO: https://worlddanceforhumanity.org/thriller
ENDING THIS WEEK
Boo at the Zoo – It’s the final weekend of the Santa Barbara Zoo‘s spook-tacular Halloween celebration where guests of all ages are invited to dress in costume and enjoy safe, traffic-free trickor-treating while exploring the zoo’s grounds after dark. Along the guided trail, families will enjoy monster-ous good times including animal encounters, spooky storytime, and educational experiences as well as bounce houses, a live DJ for dancing and plenty of surprises lurking around every corner. Seasonal snacks and adult beverages will also be available for purchase.
WHEN: 5-8 pm nightly October 24-26
WHERE: SB Zoo, 500 Niños Drive
COST: $25 adults, $18 children ages 2-12; $3 discount for zoo members ($11 parking, free for members)
INFO: (805) 962-5339 or https://www.sbzoo.org/event
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23
‘FORUM’ for Fall – Santa Barbara Dance Theater, professional dance company in residence at UCSB’s Department of Theater and Dance, fires up its 49th season with a new highly collaborative evening-length work. FORUM features choreography created by SBDT company dancers Dalya Modlin and Calder White along with artistic director Brandon Whited, associate professor and chair of the Department of Theater and Dance. They came up with the choreography in close collaboration with the dancers to highlight individual artistic voices while finding confluence and synergy for the piece as a whole. With explorations and process-driven choreographic methods, the SBDT pair, who will also perform in the piece, developed the work alongside eight student apprentice dancers, while UCSB faculty member Vickie J. Scott created original lighting design. The music is by Michael Wall. “A ‘forum’ is a site of discourse, a place to share ideas,” Whited said in a press release. “The work taps into threads of humanity and connection that we think will resonate with audiences in light of the present moment.”
WHEN: 7:30 pm October 23-25, and 2 pm October 26
(post-show discussion with the artists on Oct. 24)
WHERE: Hatlen Theater, 552 University Road
COST: $22 general, $13 students & seniors in advance, $15 & $25 at the door
INFO: (805) 893-2064 or www.theaterdance.ucsb.edu
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
Gospel Grooves – Two Grammy-winning forces of gospel and soul share the stage on a single night as 2025 Best Roots Gospel Album Grammy winner Cory Henry joins the legendary Blind Boys of Alabama, whose Echoes of the South album earned the same award in 2024, for an evening that boasts Hammond B3 funk, rich gospel harmonies and deep spiritual feeling. Eric “Ricky” McKinnie, who at 35 years and counting is the longest tenured member of the Blind Boys although he was born 13 years after the band was founded at what is now known as the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind. McKinnie serves as the leader of the group, whose five singers perpetuate their collective role as living legends of both classic gospel music, and powerful, gospel-adjacent interpretations of pop songs. Former Snarky Puppy member Cory Henry has made a significant mark in the music industry, not only in gospel but with a variety of collaborations – from acclaimed Spanish artist Rosalía to Kanye West, Bruce Springsteen, Imagine Dragons, Stevie Wonder and others. Expect a night that bridges the rootsy tradition of gospel quartets with the soul sound of the Civil Rights era, delivering both raw emotion and authentic American music at its finest.
WHEN: 7:30 pm
WHERE: Campbell Hall
COST: $48-$63
INFO: (805) 893-3535 or https://artsandlectures.ucsb.edu
Harvest Block Party – Tri-County Produce’s new owners celebrate their new role and the East Beach market’s long history of community engagement with its first annual event in the space adjacent to its store that serves as an everyday farmers market. The fully family-friendly Block Party showcases the market’s offerings from regional farmers, wineries and local makers who regularly supply seasonal produce and artisanal products to Santa Barbara and surrounding communities; a local reputation summarized by Tri-Co’s popular longstanding slogan: “If it’s any fresher, it’s still in the fields.” Guests will also enjoy live music, wine tastings, free samples, face-painting, giveaways, raffles and prizes, pumpkin decorating and a pop-up pumpkin patch.
Mixin’ It up with MOXI – MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, makes a good point when it asks why should kids have all the fun ? Once again this evening, it’s time for grown-ups to play in the space that has entertained and educated children for more than eight years in its lower State Street location. Just in time for Halloween, adults get the opportunity to explore the spooky side of National Chemistry Week by making dry ice crystal balls, color-changing concoctions and bubbling brews through captivating chemistry demos and activities – all led by special guest chemists from the Los Padres Section of the American Chemical Society. As usual in its periodic Happy Hour events, MOXI invites visitors to enjoy all three floors of exhibits – including Light Track, Speed Track, Fantastic Forces Courtyard, Buses in Space, Quiet Cave and more – as well as the rooftop Sky Garden that boasts panoramic city and ocean views. Halloween costumes are encouraged, but make sure to leave weapons and other such props at home.
WHEN: 5:30-8 pm
WHERE: MOXI Museum of Exploration + Innovation, 125 State St.
COST: $18, free for MOXI members
INFO: (805) 770-5000 or www.moxi.org
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29
Come-a to ‘Sutra’ – Contemporary dance and ancient martial arts combine in Sutra, a collaboration between Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui , director of the Ballet du Grand Théâtre de Genève; Turner Prize-winning sculptor Antony Gormley , composer Szymon Brzóska , and 20 Buddhist monks from the Shaolin Temple in China’s Henan Province. The breathtaking spectacle explores the Shaolin kung fu tradition in a contemporary context as the cadre of monks perform flying kicks, backflips and shadowboxing in a humorous fable about a European outsider entering their monastery. Clever set design and a commissioned score has led reviewers to call Sutra “a brave, thrilling, elliptical piece” and an “odyssey into the mind of a Zen Buddhist.”
WHEN: 7:30 pm
WHERE: Granada Theatre, 1214 State Street COST: $55-$110
INFO: (805) 899-2222/www.granadasb.org or (805) 893-3535/https://artsandlectures.ucsb.edu
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
Fields of Funk – The annual festival marks its fifth year of live funk with a pre-Halloween party for the community in one of the prettiest outdoor venues in town. There are three stages for the performances that come from a wide swath of artists that include the Los Angeles League of Musicians (LA LOM), an instrumental trio that mixes cumbia sonidera, ‘60s soul ballads, and classic romantic boleros with the twang of Peruvian chicha and Bakersfield country; DJ, producer, jazz-trained pianist, and activist LP Giobbi ; 54 Ultra who fuses synthy indie rock, garage pop and Latin soul; the 1990-2000s house music, trip hop and big beat duo known as Fcukers; LA duo Melissa Scaduto and Brady Keehn ; Coachella cult-rock veterans The Buttertones; “Godfather of Chillwave” Ernest Greene , aka “ Washed Out ,” and others. Art installations, a silent disco, food trucks, clothing and other vendors round out the offerings. Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets, and dressing in costumes is encouraged.
WHEN: 12 noon -10 pm
WHERE: Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Road COST: $60-$110
INFO: https://fieldsoffunk.com
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ESTATE/SENIOR SERVICES
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Glenn Novack, Owner 805-770-7715
www.missdaisy.org info@movingmissdaisy.com
THE CLEARING HOUSE
Recognized as the area’s Premier Estate Liquidators - Experts in the Santa Barbara Market! We are Skilled Professionals with Years of Experience in Downsizing and Estate Sales. Personalized service. Insured. Call for a complimentary consultation. Elaine (805)708-6113 Christa (805)450-8382
We Buy, Sell and Broker Important Estate Jewelry. Located in the upper village of Montecito. Graduate Gemologists with 30 years of experience. We do free evaluations and private consultation. 1470 East Valley Rd Suite V. 805-969-0888
TILE SETTING
Local tile setter of 35 years is now doing small jobs only. Services include grout cleaning and repair, caulking, sealing, replacing damaged tiles and basic plumbing needs. Call Doug Watts at 805-729-3211 for a free estimate.
PHYSICAL TRAINING & THERAPY
Stillwell Fitness of Santa Barbara In Home Personal Training Sessions for 65+ Help with: Strength, Flexibility, Balance Motivation, and Consistency John Stillwell, CPT, Specialist in Senior Fitness 805-705-2014 StillwellFitness.com
GOT OSTEOPOROSIS? WE CAN HELP
At OsteoStrong our proven non-drug protocol takes just ten minutes once a week to improve your bone density and aid in more energy, strength, balance and agility. Please call for a complimentary session! Call Now (805) 453-6086
Carpet Cleaning Since 1978 (805) 963-5304 Rafael Mendez Cell: 689-8397 or 963-3117
Montecito Electric Repairs and Inspections Licensed C10485353 805-969-1575
General Building Design & Construction Contractor William J. Dalziel Lic. B311003 – 1 (805) 698-4318 billjdalziel@gmail.com
Casa L. M.
Landscape hedges installed. Ficus to flowering. Disease resistant. Great privacy. Certified rootstock roses and fruit trees. Licensed & insured. Call (805) 963-6909
WATERLILIES and LOTUS since 1992
WATERGARDEN CARE SBWGC PET/
HOUSE SITTING
Do you need to get away for a weekend, week or more? I will house sit and take care of your pets, plants & mail. I have refs if needed. Call me or text me. Christine (805) 452-2385
SENIOR MOVE SOLUTIONS
For 10 years your trusted experts in Downsizing, Relocation & Estate Transitions. Experienced & detail-oriented, we handle every step with patience and precision. CuratedTransitions.com 805.669.6303
$10 MINIMUM TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD
It’s simple. Charge is $3 per line, each line with 31 characters. Minimum is $10 per issue. Photo/logo/visual is an additional $20 per issue. Email Classified Ad to frontdesk@montecitojournal.net or call (805) 565-1860. All ads must be finalized by Friday at 2pm the week prior to printing. We accept Visa/MasterCard/Amex (3% surcharge) MIRAMAR BEACH CONDO FOR LONG-TERM LEASE
Two bedroom / two bath, furnished beach condo. Gated entry, two private parking spaces. $9,500 / month. No pets. Call owner at (817) 307 8989
CLEANLINESS & PEACE FOR RENT
1 bed / 1 bath on West Camino Cielo on 5 acres
10 min from State St. - NS, NP $2000/month Call (805) 964-1891
BOOKKEEPER/PERSONAL ASSISTANT
Bookkeeper/Personal assistant, looking for Part-Time (5hrs/week) - $75/hr, Excellent references, efficient and NDA experience, email address: agn3@icloud.com
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
K-9 PALS need volunteers to be foster parents for our dogs while they are waiting for their forever homes. For more information info@k-9pals.org or 805-570-0415
