The Carpinteria Valley Little League began opening weekend for its 29th season on Saturda Marc and Carpinteria’s oun pla ers oc ed to l Carro Par or t e rst round of games. Some of the attendees at opening weekend included, from left, Ryan Crooks, Davey Doucette and Hudson Hogue, who stood together as they waited for their ames to be in. ead more about openin wee end on pa e o t is wee ’s print.
STAFF
False alarm leads to brief lockdown at Aliso
A brief lockdown was initiated at Aliso Elementary School on Friday, March 6, after t e anta ar ara Count eriff s e art ent received a re ort of individuals in possession of a handgun by the railroad tracks near the elementary school.
The department received the call about the potential handgun at 10:11 a.m., according to t e de art ent s u lic nfor ation cer a uel ic . A out inutes later deputies were able to locate the individuals and found that they were in possession of a cell one and u rella ut not a rear . According to ic t e loc do n at the school was lifted by 10:28 a.m.
“This is a good example of students reporting suspicious activity to adults and a re inder t at if ou see so et ing sa so et ing ic rote on t e social media platform X.
Carpinteria State Beach and campgrounds, early 1980s.
The Carpinteria Valley Museum of History located at 956 Maple Ave. is temporarily closed for the installation of new exhibits. The museum has removed its static Victorian sitting room and bedroom to make way for new exhibits about Carpinteria’s coastline, including the places, events and people that shaped the beaches, camping, social life and 20th-century foundations of the valley.
Jayme Yahr, the museum’s executive director, looks forward to a long-overdue refresh of a portion of the museum, citing an updated look and feel but with a continued focus on at a es Car interia uni ue and t e i ortance of istor to Carpinteria’s continuously unfolding story.
She noted that all objects that were on view in the Victorian rooms are still part of the museum’s collection, they’re just on “vacation” in museum storage. “We must make changes to the museum’s exhibits to encourage both Carpinterians and tourists to visit ore t an once ever fe ears said a r. t can e di cult to encourage new interest and involvement if nothing ever changes.”
The museum will announce a re-opening date and member preview event in the near future.
Carpinteria residents looking to build practical emergency response skills are invited to attend a ands on rst aid or s o osted t e cit of Car interia s AgeWell program on Thursday, March 19.
e rogra titled irst Aid it a ire g ter ill ta e lace fro to . . in the meeting room at the Carpinteria Veterans Memorial Building. The session will be led a local re g ter and ill focus on asic rst aid tec ni ues and e ergenc response skills.
uring t e one our or s o artici ants ill learn essential rst aid ractices safet ti s and strategies for res onding cal l and effectivel during co on e ergency situations. The session is designed to be interactive and informative, giving attendees practical knowledge they can use at home or in the community.
Age ell organi ers sa t e goal of t e rogra is to el residents feel ore con dent in res onding to ever da e ergencies and to e ui t e it s ills t at could a e a eaningful difference in critical o ents.
The workshop is open to community members interested in learning the basics of rst aid in a su ortive educational environ ent. or ore infor ation e ail age ell car interiaca.gov or call .
Emergency responders rescued a man Monday after he fell from the Carpinteria luffs near t e Car interia luffs ature reserve.
The incident prompted a coordinated response from the Carpinteria-Summerland Fire Protection District and several other emergency units. Authorities received the call for help around 12:18 p.m., and a helicopter was dispatched shortly afterward to assist with the rescue.
Carpinteria-Summerland Fire crews used a drone to locate the man, who had fallen a ro i atel feet fro t e luffs to t e eac elo according to C ire Marshal Mike LoMonaco.
The man sustained moderate to severe injuries, including a broken leg, LoMonaco said. Medical personnel reached the man at approximately 12:52 p.m., and he was airlifted by helicopter to a local hospital at about 1:43 p.m.
An update on the man’s condition was not immediately available.
A map from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) website shows the epicenter (star) of a magnitude 2.9 earthquake recorded at 10:51 a.m. on March 10, 2026, approximately 3.7 miles southeast of Carpinteria in the Santa Barbara Channel.
A s all eart ua e as recorded near Car interia late uesda orning according to t e . . eological urve . e re orted a agnitude . eart ua e at a. . on onda arc it an e icenter a out si ilo eters a ro i atel . iles sout east of Car interia in t e anta ar ara C annel. e ua e occurred at a de t of roug l 2.6 kilometers beneath the surface.
USGS data indicates the shaking was light, with some residents along the South Coast otentiall feeling a rief tre or. art ua es of t is agnitude are t icall considered minor and rarely cause damage.
No injuries or damage have been reported, and no tsunami advisory was issued. all eart ua es are relativel co on along California s out Coast as t e region sits it in a net or of active faults associated it t e roader aci c ort American tectonic plate boundary. esidents o felt t e ua e can su it re orts to t e t roug its id You Feel It?” online survey, which helps scientists map how strongly shaking was e erienced in different locations.
Members of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 218 march in the Solvang Veterans Day Parade in 2023, representing local Vietnam-era veterans and onorin t ose w o served and sacri ced.
Vietnam
The local chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America will host its inaugural dinner honoring National Vietnam Veterans Day later this month, inviting veterans and community members to gather in recognition of those who served during the Vietnam War era.
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 218 will hold the event on Saturday, March 28, at the Elks Lodge, 150 N. Kellogg Ave. in Santa Barbara. The evening is intended as a “welcome home” tribute to Vietnam-era veterans and a chance for the community to e ress gratitude for t eir service and sacri ce.
“This is a welcome home to all Vietnam-era veterans, whether they served in country or not,” said Chapter 218 President Peter Bie. “We gather to express our deepest gratitude. is is t e rst dinner t e c a ter as organi ed and e all o e it ill e t e rst of an .
The program begins at 5 p.m. with live music and a no-host cocktail hour featuring beer, wine and well drinks. The evening will also include a Presentation of the Colors, a video tribute honoring Santa Barbara County’s 100 fallen service members from t e ietna ar era and a ra e.
Guests will be served dinner with a choice of prime rib, rosemary chicken or a vegetarian entrée. The event is scheduled to conclude at 10 p.m. rgani ers encourage attendees to arc so t e c ef can re are accordingl . eservations s ould include a dinner selection t oug a ent a be made at the door.
Veterans from other wars, as well as members of the public, are also welcome to attend.
National Vietnam Veterans Day is observed annually on March 29, marking the date in 1973 when the last contingent of U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam. o contact eter ie at or e ail eter ie g ail.co . ore infor ation a out t e organi ation is availa le at .vvac a ter .org.
BY LIV KLEIN
The city of Carpinteria is slowly chipping away at its Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) requirement — a California state-mandated process that requires cities and counties to plan for enough housing to meet future population growth and income needs every eight years.
taff re orted in t e annual ousing report to the Carpinteria City Council on Monday night that 20 new units were added to the city’s RHNA numbers last year.
Of those 20 units, three are low-income units and 17 are above-moderate-income units. Nearly a third of the way through its current RHNA cycle, the city has 73 of the 901 required RHNA units completed. Of the total requirement, 286 must qualify as very-low-income units and 132 as low-income units.
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some folks would like to see, if you read into the Housing Element written report that we provided to the council, you’ll see that there are a number of projects that are somewhere earlier in the process that are working their way through,” Community evelo ent irector ic o roff said. “If some or all of those come online in t e ne t ear or t o e ll see signi cant jumps in our RHNA numbers.”
Additionall staff re orted certif icates of occupancy issued last year — granted when construction is complete and a housing unit is ready for residents. One was for a single-family dwelling, nine were for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and two were for junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs).
“ADUs and JADUs are still our biggest numbers for RHNA — our source for new housing,” Principal Planner Mindy Fogg said.
The city’s current RHNA cycle began in 2023 and runs through 2031.
Mayor Natalia Alarcon asked staff whether the city would be penalized if it fails to meet its RHNA requirements on time.
“The California Department of Housing and Community Development measures progress toward meeting jurisdiction numbers. They monitor the annual reports and look at what’s in queue,” Boroff said. f t e nd t at a urisdiction is not a ing su cient rogress t ere are different t es of enalties t at can
be applied to local jurisdictions.”
One potential consequence is that the city could fall under the provisions of Senate Bill 423, which allows for streamlined permit reviews for certain qualifying housing projects. A more severe enalt could e t e decerti cation of t e city’s Housing Element.
ile t e cit is off to a slo start in co leting ousing units staff said it as ade signi cant strides in its ousing Element toward facilitating the means to meet local housing needs and RHNA requirements.
taff ig lig ted e acco lis ents from 2025, including the creation of the city’s new residential mixed-use (RMU) zoning district, which requires a density of 20 to 25 units per acre.
The new RMU zone allowed the city to demonstrate it has enough development capacity to reach its RHNA targets.
“There may come a time in the housing cycle where we may need to create additional capacity because either some properties are not performing as we expected or not converting to residential as e o ed for o roff said.
Other housing highlights from last ear included t e for ation of an Afford able Housing Standing Committee, composed of Alarcon and Councilmember Julia Mayer, and the council’s approval of a policy allowing projects with 20% afforda le units to undergo a inisterial review process.
The Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) is a California state program that requires every city and county to plan for enough housing to meet projected population growth and income needs.
Every eight years, the state assigns each local government a housing target broken down by income levels — including very low, low, moderate and above-moderate income housing.
For the current housing cycle, which runs from 2023 to 2031, the city of Carpinteria must plan for 901 new housing units, including:
• 286 very-low-income units
• 132 low-income units
• 159 moderate-income units
• 324 above-moderate-income units
Cities are required to show they have enough land zoned for housing to accommodate these units and must report annually on progress toward those goals.
If a city fails to demonstrate progress, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) can impose penalties, including streamlined approvals for certain housing projects or potentially decertifying the city’s Housing Element.
BY LIV KLEIN
The Carpinteria City Council on Monday received a midyear budget report showing increases in both revenue and expenditures across city funds, including the General Fund, along with a decline in overall available fund balances.
The midyear report covered the sixmonth period from July 1, 2025, to Jan. 31, 2026, highlighting budget trends and ad ust ents during t e rst alf of t e scal ear.
taff re orted t at eneral und reve nues increased by about $770,000 due to adjustments in transient occupancy tax and sales tax projections.
“That’s not $770,000 added to our available fund balance — that is $770,000 over what we had budgeted,” City Manager Michael Ramirez said.
However, while revenues are higher than projected, they are not keeping pace with rising expenditures, which is contributing to declining available fund balances.
As revenues increase, expenditures often rise as well, Ramirez said. Major spending adjustments included legal services, the city’s emergency operations plan, street maintenance, tree mainte-
nance and additional sta ng su ort in the Public Works Department.
“The real issue is the trajectory of expenditures and revenues,” Ramirez said. “I just want to ensure the council and the community that we are doing everything we can to conserve costs.” e are de nitel elt tig tening e added. “But with those trajectories, the only way to get where we need to be is for the city to start having revenues that are keeping pace with those expenses, and we’re working on strategies to do that.”
After accounting for the projected increases in both revenue and expenditures, the midyear report showed a net increase of about $426,000 in the General Fund and a $497,000 net increase across all city funds.
“What’s most important to pay attention to is the net increase after increases to the expenditures and revenues,” Ramirez said.
The council approved the midyear udget re ort and re uested t at staff return at a later date with reports on city employee trends and strategies to increase revenue to keep pace with expenditures.
The midyear budget report is available for public review at bit.ly/MidYearBudget.
Reporting period: July 1, 2025 – Jan. 31, 2026
General Fund revenue increase: +$770,000 (largely from transient occupancy tax and sales tax adjustments)
General Fund net increase after adjustments: about $426,000
Net increase across all city funds: about $497,000
Key areas with increased spending:
• Legal services
• Emergency operations planning
• Street maintenance
• Tree maintenance
Additional u lic or s sta ng
Bottom line: Cit o cials sa revenues are rising but expenditures are increasing faster, putting pressure on long-term fund balances.
Carpinteria families planning summer activities can soon sign up for one of the city’s most popular youth programs. Registration for the Carpinteria Junior Lifeguards Program opens Monday, March 16, at 6 p.m.
Operated through the city of Carpinteria Parks and Recreation Department, the summer program introduces youth to ocean safet ile uilding con dence tea or and sical tness through activities such as swimming,
running and paddling.
For 2026, several changes have been introduced in response to parent feedback.
The program will now operate under a two-session format, with participants able to enroll in one of two separate four-week sessions during the summer. The daily schedule has also shifted, with activities now running from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
A new after-camp option will also be offered t is ear. a ilies can c oose
an extended-day add-on that continues programming from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Parents of new participants should note that swim tryouts are required for children who are entering the program for t e rst ti e or oving u fro t e Minis division to the C’s division.
Additional information about the program and registration details are available through the City of Carpinteria’s Junior Lifeguards webpage, carpinteriaca.gov/ parks-and-recreation/junior-lifeguards/.
BY CVN STAFF
reli inar results fro a ro er t o ner allot roceeding indicate that two proposed assessment districts in t e cit of Car interia a not ove forward.
uring a u lic earing on onda arc t e Car interia Cit Council received u lic testi on and closed t e eriod for su itting rotest allots relat ed to the proposed Carpinteria Landscape aintenance istrict o. and t e ro osed Coastal er Assess ent istrict. e council t en directed t e cit cler to egin ta ulating t e allots in u lic vie at Cit all.
According to a state ent fro Car in teria Cit Cler rian arrett earl ta ulation results suggest t at ro ert o ners ave re ected ot ro osals.
After revie ing uno cial results of t e ta ulation of ro ert o ner rotest
allots for ot t e Car interia and sca e aintenance istrict o. and Coastal er Assess ent istrict it a ears t at a a orit rotest e ists against t e for ation of ot assess ent districts arrett said.
nder California s ro osition lo cal govern ents ust conduct a ail al lot roceeding a ong affected ro ert o ners efore esta lis ing or increasing ro ert related assess ents. allots are eig ted ased on t e nancial o liga tion assigned to eac arcel and if allots o osing t e assess ent e ceed t ose in favor a a orit rotest is declared and the proposed district must be abandoned.
The proposed Landscape Maintenance istrict ould ave re laced an e isting assess ent district created in t e s to fund maintenance of street trees and landsca ed u lic areas t roug out t e cit . e e isting district generates a out annuall ile aintaining t e
BY LIV KLEIN
e Car interia ions Clu and t e otar Clu of Car interia orning C arita le oundation received a a oral recognition onda nig t for t eir co ined donation to t e o ol nter retive la ground. ot t e otar Clu of Car interia orning and t e ions Clu of Car in teria are dedicated to service and are e cited a out t e ositive i act t is contri ution ill ave on t e la area and t e fa ilies t at en o it said te en erteis resident of t e otar Clu of Car interia orning. Cit council e ers e ressed gratitude to ot organi ations for t eir
contribution to the community. at s one of t ose ar s t at ev er od loves ere and eo le fro all over t e state co e ere to visit Council e er nica ol r ano o ura said. e d li e to sincerel t an ou for our efforts. a or atalia Alarcon also t an ed ot organi ations for su orting t e ro ect. d li e to t an ot of t e clu s for ste ing u to t e late Alarcon said. t s reall nice t at e ave ou all in t is co unit to ste u and el us in so an a s.
s ste no costs roug l . illion er ear re uiring signi cant su sidies fro t e cit s eneral und and ot er sources.
e Coastal er Assess ent is trict ro osal soug t to re lace an older district esta lis ed in t e earl s t at funds t e seasonal sand er con structed along Car interia Cit eac to el rotect eac front ro erties and infrastructure fro stor aves and coastal ooding.
Cit officials initiated ot district ro osals in ove er as art of an effort to oderni e funding structures and align assess ent rates it current costs. At t e arc eeting t e council
ado ted resolutions closing t e u lic testi on ortion and t e allot su ission eriod and directed t at allot ta ulation continue as needed. e u lic earing ill re ain o en until t e council reconvenes to receive and certif t e nal results.
fficial results of t e allot ta ula tion ill e announced and certi ed t e Car interia Cit Council at its ne t regularl sc eduled eeting on arc . f t e a orit rotest is con r ed at t at eeting t e cit ill e legall re uired to a andon t e for ation ro ceedings for ot ro osed assess ent districts.
BY LIV KLEIN
The city of Carpinteria has partnered with MOVE Santa Barbara County, the Car interia ni ed c ool istrict and t e anta ar ara Count eriff s e art ent on a i e and e i e safet ca aign t at ill include outreac education and enforce ent t. att ritting a c ief of olice services re orted onda during t e Car interia Cit Council eeting.
ritting a said riders can el ensure safet and co liance it t e la riding it t e o of tra c sto ing at red lig ts and sto signs and earing el ets for riders under . a or atalia Alarcon said t e cit as een or ing on t e issue t roug t e Conve ance Co ittee.
Council e er a er and ave een a art of t e Conve ance Co ittee and ave or ed reall ard colla orating it t e s eriff s o ce and t e anta ar ara ni ed c ool istrict to roll t is outreac and education lan out Alarcon said.
“We want to ensure that we protect the community, and this ordinance is one a to do t at s e added. e are ver serious a out t e education ut also t e enforce ent of it and e ant to a e sure e get t e ord out.
online. community. news.
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Tourists and guests have painfully few options for comfortable lodging near the beach and downtown. They typically visit downtown shops and eat in our restaurants. A full-service hotel would provide destination lodging close to all our amenities including trails, biking, parks and the beach. With small homes in the beach neighborhood we are unable to provide lodging for guests. We would love to reserve nearby hotel rooms and facilities for family gatherings. The Suriner nn c ec s all t e o es.
Jack Wilcox Carpinteria
For generations, the community of Carpinteria has opposed new developments on the Bluffs properties where o en s ace currentl e ists. e co unity has spoken loudly and clearly with voices (at public hearings), with votes (Paredon Measure J) and ultimately with dollars (purchasing parcels at fair market value when opportunities have arisen). e luffs ave eco e an e le of community pride and a gathering spot, an easily accessible place of respite from a too often crazy world.
Two years after a strong community showing in opposition to a proposed hotel at the Tee Time/farm property, the lenders for the hotel proposal, a company called Sortis out of Portland, Ore., have re-emerged with a proposal for a housing development on the same property.
f ou loo into availa le infor ation on Sortis, it turns out that they have been sued at least a dozen times in the past few years for allegedly not living up to contractual obligations. They have been sued by contractors, landlords, employees and their own investors. Most of the lawsuits are over nonpayment of obligations, but also include nondisclosure to investors of nancial infor ation and a sconding with $500,000 of restaurant equipment. o onder ortis as ired a r from Los Angeles to whitewash their image as they try to drum up community support for their project, so they can make a lot of money from a project that the community as a whole doesn’t want. Carpinteria does need housing, but not on t e luffs. ere are a riad of ot er laces to ut it as identi ed in t e cit s Housing Element plan. Most of these homes will sell for multiple millions of dollars. t is not ousing for our favorite waitress. Please be on the lookout for upcoming opportunities to voice your opinion on this project.
John Tilton Carpinteria
f ou are a resident of a o ile o e park, take heed. The State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) is proposing changing how they will increase their numerous mobile home fees. These changes are shown in the pre-senate or assembly bill RN 2608976.
“Carpinteria does need housing, but not on the lu s. here are a myria of other pla es to put it as i entifie in the ity s ousing lement plan.
—John Tilton
and pro-life messaging would be central to the program was not clearly communicated in the public promotion. Marketing the event around an inspirational female at lete ile introducing co le and sensitive issues felt like an intentional tactic to attract young girls and families without clearly disclosing the advocacy focus.
Our South Coast communities welcome diverse viewpoints, and advocacy organizations have every right to share their beliefs. But parents should be aware of who is sponsoring events marketed to families and what messages may be presented to children.
“A RN or request number is a temporar identi cation nu er used to draft language before it becomes a bill.” The language used in RN 2608976 is a startling abuse of power and has the potential to displace many senior and low-income families from their homes as the fees increase year after year. HCD is proposing to automatically increase fees every ear using t e Consu er rice nde currently at 3.3%.
HCD plans to increase their fees by rounding up any fee calculated per the inde . or e a le if a fee is a ear and you increase it by 3.3% the result is a $3.30 increase, but they want to round it up to the highest dollar or $4. Do this every year for all their fees and you can understand the devastating consequences of this bill.
ortunatel e ave a non ro t organi ation g ting for us against t is ill the Golden State Manufactured-Home Owners League. This outstanding organi ation as een g ting for ears on behalf of mobile home park residents, but it is only as strong as its dues paying members. We need every homeowner to join this vital organization and support them in rejecting this catastrophic legislation by calling our state representatives in rejecting this bill. What they are intending to do is wrong and incredibly bad legislation. The lives of many seniors and the future of unsubsidized housing is in jeopardy.
Go to gsmol.org for more information on how to protect you and your family from bad legislation.
Bob Franco Carpinteria
Last year, the Carpinteria City Council eard a staff re ort regarding renovation of the 35-year old Carpinteria Community Pool. A professionally done study gave an estimated cost of about $969,000. So … what did City Council members say in response to the report? The cost is “far out of the city’s means.” “… the project may present an overwhelming cost.” Councilmembers signaled that the community ould ave to contri ute nanciall or improvements wouldn’t happen.
By the council’s statements, the city has no one to do t e or . t didn t el that, at the time of the pool’s opening, the city failed to create a special budget reserve for renovations … an unwise decision.
Despite claiming poverty, the city is a as in funds our ta a er funds.
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n its scal ear ado ted udget age t e cit clai s a o ing reserve. Moreover, the city has budgeted . illion for ca ital i rove ents. t also has nearly $9.6 million of discretionary money in its reserves. That means the cit as . illion it can dra fro to fund pool renovations.
Oddly, the budget shows pool imrove ents age as one of its capital projects. Didn’t council members convey that there was no money?
This cat and mouse game of no-money-yes money is to get the community to pony up funds that it has already contri uted via ta es to ard t e cit s ulging coffers so t e cit can oard our ta a er funds. e edian o e rice in Carpinteria is over $2 million. Rents are crazy and the cost of living is ridiculously high. But none of that matters. You need to pitch in because the city lacks funds [cough].
Time for the city to stop playing games and state publicly that it will fund pool improvements. Otherwise, say you gave at t e o ce.
Paul Cordeiro Ventura
Last week we attended an event at the Granada Theatre featuring professional surfer and shark attack survivor Bethany a ilton. e roug t ve girls under t e age of fro Car interia o ere ecited to hear the story of a young woman who survived a shark attack and went on to become a professional surfer.
Like many families in our coastal communities, we value stories of resilience and strong female role models. The event’s promotion around Hamilton’s inspirational life story clearly appealed to young girls and families.
What surprised many of us in the audience was how little of the evening focused on a ilton s sur ng ourne and recover . nstead a signi cant ortion of the program centered on Christian essaging and e licit ro life advocac .
The event was sponsored by Network Medical, yet the degree to which abortion
Transparency allows parents to make informed decisions and prepare their c ildren for co le to ics. en events attract families and young audiences, honesty about the content matters.
Nikki Wilmore, Brandy Hogg-Duncan, Kelsey Witt, Traci Allison, Jessica Petrillo and Lana Ziegler Carpinteria
The potential concept/idea to move our community garden to Lot #4, in order to ut in a ar ing lot for t e ur iner nn is unacceptable. To be clear, our community garden is not an afterthought and s ould sta rooted rig t ere it is. t is a long established, cherished community center and one of the beating hearts of our eloved cit . t ould e a tragic loss to get rid of it, only to put up a sea of cement to accommodate a boutique hotel that should not be built at this location in the rst lace.
Carpinteria Community Garden is an oasis. t is a destination. A sanctuar and a paradise to all who are an integral part of it, as well as all who visit. A precious piece of land for gardeners to grow food and o ers to soa u t e eaut of nature and to rea t e ene ts of its e istence and nearl ears of constant gro t ic ill e cele rated ne t ear. is is an e otional issue t at affects everyone. Hard data research can be found to back up how potentially detrimental moving this garden would be to the community and those who depend on it in t e ational nstitute of ealt Mass General Brigham, National Park and Recreation and Healthy Minds Philly, to name a few.
As the prescient lyrics to Joni Mitchell s iconic song ig ello a i state “They paved paradise and put up a parking lot, with a pink hotel a boutique and a swinging hot spot, don’t it always seem to go you don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone.” Well, we know what we’ve got. Please, don’t let our garden be moved to put up a parking lot.
Mary Kate McGeehan Carpinteria
DIANA RIGBY
CUSD SUPERINTENDENT
Editor’s note: A copy of the Superintendent’s Report is run in print as a service for parents, students and community members who annot atten Carpinteria nifie hool District Board of Trustee meetings. A version of this report was rea alou uring the s hool board’s March 10, 2026 meeting.
Parent conferences will be held during March 23-27 minimum days. Working with our families to support student learning is a professional expectation and standard for all Car interia ni ed School District (CUSD) teachers. ffective teac ers develo strong artnerships with families to ensure student engagement and support. These spring arent conferences rovide t e o ortunity for parents to learn more about their student s rogress in ac ieving grade level standards une in re aration for t e ne t grade level. eac ers rovide many strategies for parents to help their students at home. Good nutrition, sleeping habits, limited screen time and nightly
reading for 30 minutes are also reinforced.
Appreciation
I would like to recognize the district’s leaders i tea ason aff a ueline Lopez, Monica Thomas, Mari Hornback, Aaron a lante erardo Corne o a ie Persoon, Brett Weiberg, Luis Quintero, Carol n aines a es Anderson irsten eu ann and ere ia o enes for t eir outstanding leadership and tireless work in su orting teac ers staff students and their families.
I would also like to recognize our coaches and student athletes for a successful winter season of sports. Girls soccer are rst ti e Citrus Coast eague Champions and made it to the second round of la offs girls ater olo are Citrus Coast League Champions and lost in t e rst round girls as et all nis ed third in the league and lost in the second round and o s soccer nis ed t ird in t e eague and lost in t e rst round.
Congratulations
The College Board announced that Carpinteria High School (CHS) has been na ed to t e Advanced lace ent c ool onor oll earning silver distinction for student success in the AP program while broadening participation.
Canalino/CFS Career Day on Feb. 27
Canalino and Carpinteria Family School hosted their annual Campus Career Day on Friday, Feb. 27, and it was a fun, full day of learning and excitement. tudents eard fro a variet of co unity members and parents, from retired
3883 & 3889 Foothill - 24 acres, Carpinteria
Mont Val Mar Road - 3 acres, Carpinteria
1650 Santa Monica Road - 1 acre, Carpinteria
7350 Shepard Mesa Road - 1.2 acre, Carpinteria
Mont Val Mar Road - 10 acres, Carpinteria
1670 Cravens Lane - 4.75 acres, Carpinteria
5154 Foothill Road - 24 acres, Carpinteria
7099 Gobernador Canyon Rd. - 4 acres, Carpinteria 1771 Ocean Oaks Road - 1/2 acre lot, Carpinteria
4665 Foothill Road - 12 acres, Carpinteria
6625 & 6655 Casitas Pass Road - 17 acres, Carpinteria
1700 San Leandro Lane, lots #2.3.6 - 1 acre lots, Montecito 5424 Foothill Road - 10 acres, Carpinteria
90 Butterfly Lane -lot - Montecito 560 San Ysidro-Montecito Duplex
Homes Sold (partial list)
842 & 858 Walnut Street - 4 units, Carpinteria 4588 4th Street, Carpinteria 1537 Nantucket Court, Carpinteria 5566 Calle Ocho Road, Carpinteria 1025 Palmetto Way, Carpinteria 1966 East Valley Road, Montecito 5199 Concord Place, Carpinteria
262 Santa Rosa Lane, Montecito 5479 Dariesa Street, Carpinteria
5631 Canalino Drive, Carpinteria 931 E. Carrillo Street, Santa Barbara
4618 Eleanor Drive, Carpinteria
4466 Foothill Road, Carpinteria
1246 Cruzero Road, Ojai
5596 Calle Arena, Carpinteria
1561 Seacoast Road, Carpinteria 1488 Azalea Drive, Carpinteria
6048 Jacaranda Way #E, Carpinteria
5544 Calle Arena Drive, Carpinteria
1482 La Paloma Drive, Carpinteria
1515 Jay Street, Carpinteria
314 W. Aliso Street, Ojai 1568 Seacoast Way, Carpinteria 1546 Myra Street, Carpinteria 1490 Eucalyptus Way, Carpinteria
la ers usiness o ners re g ters and an ore. e ad a retruc ac ro n s e cavator and t e ig ed Crane on the blacktop for students to explore. It was a memorable and inspiring experience for all!
Teachers of the Year
On April 18, the Carpinteria Communit Association A ards an uet ill honor two CUSD teachers: CHS teacher Peter Cotte and Canalino Elementary c ool second grade teac er rist uerrero. Congratulations!
Read Across America: March 2-6
For Read Across America 2026 the main theme is “Create & Celebrate a Nation of iverse eaders it a s eci c monthly focus in March being “Chamion indness encouraging oo s t at re ect all readers and ro ote e at it t e overall goal of a ing ever child feel welcome and seen in literature. e rogra e asi es diverse stories and authors to help children see themselves and understand ot ers e tending beyond a single day into a year-round initiative. uring t is ee C through eighth grade students particiated in fun cele rator reading activities facilitated by classroom teachers, student councils and library media technicians.
On Monday, Feb. 23, Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce hosted a Classroom Hosted Industry Partner-
s i C connections event at t e C Engineering Lab, featuring CMC Rescue, Rincon Engineering, Toyon Research and UCSB NanoFab. The core concept of C is to rovide ig sc ool students it valua le industr e eriences itin their Career Technical Education (CTE) rogra s. is is ac ieved connecting students with industry professionals who offer ro ects t at si ulate real orld on-site challenges. Students then work on t ese industr ro ects ro le solving or develo ing solutions under t e guidance of their engineering teacher and with regular check-ins from an industry mentor.
The notice to proceed was issued to c illivra Construction and o ili ation took place during the week of Feb. 16. Temporary fencing was placed and the demolition scope of work was started and co leted. cavation and grading ave egun as ell as site surve ing. uring an e lorator trenc e cavation it as o served t at t e ground ater ta le is no a out t o feet a ove t e ro osed de t of over e cavation. De-watering and soil stabilization will now be necessary to meet the compacted ll re uire ents of t e soils re ort. is cost and time impact will initiate a change order re uest it a ti e e tension to t e project schedule.
Diana Rigby is the superintendent of Carpinteria nifie hool istri t. or more information about C log on to us .net or contact Diana at drigby@cusd.net or (805) 684-4511x222.
It is with great pleasure that we have the opportunity to provide real estate services to the beautiful coastal communities of Carpinteria, Summerland, Montecito, and Santa Barbara. In our representation, you can expect an unwavering commitment to exceptional service. We uphold the highest level of fiduciary responsibility, always acting with care, integrity, and professionalism. We are attentive listeners, dedicated to understanding your goals, and we bring solid, proven negotiating skills to every transaction. Through Compass Real Estate, we offer unparalleled marketing strategies designed to showcase your home at its absolute best. Local knowledge is an invaluable asset in real estate, and our deep understanding of this unique coastline allows us to represent your home with insight and authenticity. We invite you to discover why so many of our clients have trusted us for decades and across generations.
the Carpinteria chapter of Women Making Change held a march and a festival in honor of international Women’s Day on sunday, March 8, with members marching from Carpinteria avenue down to the beach.
the celebration began with a march at 9 a.m., from the peace Corner on linden and Carpinteria avenues to Carpinteria City Beach. the march was followed by an international Women’s Day festival at the Carpinteria Children’s project. the event included tables from local businesses and organizations, as well as speakers, youth performances, live music and food.
Carpinteria Beautiful’s February Lookin’ Good award — awarded to residents who have beautified their properties, with a s eci c focus on droug t resistance as presented to Linda Rose and Paul Stull for their home at 1277 La Brea Lane. at caug t our e es as t e si licit of concrete and ood te ture of grasses succulents and t e orange red of t e angaroo Paws,” said Sally Galati with Carpinteria Beautiful.
Rose and Stull have lived in their home since 2016, and their front-yard renovation egan it t e air atte ting to re lace t eir crac ed drive a . ile or ing on this project, Rose decided that she wanted to conserve ater allo ing it to o t roug o en s aces in t e drive a . e ac ieved t is lling in t e s all o en spaces in the driveway with stones. ose and tull or ed it designer Arianna ans a o gave ose t e idea to create a retaining all ll it it gravel cover the area with astro turf and construct renc drains for an ater over o . is creates a reservoir t at lters ater ac into ose and tull s lants including a lu and an apricot tree.
is si le design as allo ed t e o ners eas aintenance et ringing a touc of beauty to their lovely home,” Galati said. — Jun Starkey
Friends of Carpinterian and Santa Barbara County employee Sheila Hess have created a GoFundMe to support Hess as she recovers from a broken ankle, which s e sustained on an. during a i e along t e Cold ring rail.
ess and a grou of er friends decided to i e u t e Cold ring rail oo and ead to ards angerine alls an area Hess had never hiked before. Different areas of the trail had been washed out by the winter storms. After t e grou egan eading ac do n t e mountain, they reached a steep inlet and egan traversing do n. ess lanted er rig t foot and attempted to plant her left foot when the ground gave a causing er to lose er footing and sna er rig t an le. e in ury left Hess stuck in an awkward position on the trail, and her friends immediately egan or ing to contact e ergenc services. Despite a lack of cell phone service, i erl l as a le to te t and e ergenc res onders ere in t e area in about 20 minutes, Hess recalled. sitting t ere t in ing o t e ell a gonna get out ess said.
Members of the Montecito Fire Protection District and Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue were on the scene quickly, and a helicopter was soon circling over to airlift er to a near ospital. Medical personnel set her ankle, provided pain medication and helped sta ili e er efore stra ing ess into a arness and sending er off into t e air. Hess said she tried to take a moment to a reciate er surroundings ile in t e air. t oug t etter loo around cause en a gonna see t is again she said.
riends o Carpinterian and Santa arbara Count emplo ee S eila ess pictured ave created a o undMe to support ess and er medical e penses.
Hess is currently about halfway t roug a ee recover eriod follo ing a surger for er an le and s e has not yet been approved for disability, s e said. Alt oug ess as esitant to ask the community for help, she said Fly helped persuade her.
e o und e ic as launc ed for ess l as a goal of and is currentl a out ful lled as of ress time. Hess said she has been humbled by t e nu er of donations fro strangers or eo le s e as onl seen in assing. ere s eo le donating t at ve ust seen around to n ess said. e community we live in is unbelievable.” ose interested a access t e ound e at it.l ess und.
––Jun Starkey
The Rotary Club of Carpinteria raises vital funds for music education and other youth programs for Carpinteria Uni ed School District students, including music instruments, equipment, and more
Last call for Talent show sponsors!
The annual Rotary Talent Showcase is our major fundraiser. For sponsors who would like to attend the show on April 11, 2026, this is the last call as the deadline is March 20, 2026. Sponsorship opportunities start at $200 and include 2 tickets, subject to availability.
Join us as a community sponsor
The Rotary Club of Carpinteria accepts donations and grants throughout the year to help our mission of supporting music and other youth programs for Carpinteria Uni ed School District students.
Sponsorships and Donations can be made by using the QR code or by contacting us at contactus@carpinteriarotary.org
Scan to donate or purchase tickets for the Rotary Talent Showcase.
WEEK 2 OF 5:
10 Murals. 5 Weeks. One Community Story.
Carpinteria’s history takes center stage. Coastal View News has launched a fiveweek series detailing the Community Plaza on Linden Avenue murals — honoring the Chumash, Californios, Japanese Americans, Italian Americans, Dust Bowl families and more.
WEEK 2 OF 5: The American Pioneer Settlers and The Mexican Americans
Carpinteria Cultural Foundation (CCF) member Dr. Jim Campos will be providing historic background on all 10 of the murals included in the CCF’s proposed Community la a on in en enue o er a fi e wee period for Coastal View News. The articles will also be available at coastalview.com.
Carpinteria Cultural Foundation (CCF) member Dr. Jim Campos will be providing historic background on all 10 of the murals included in the CCF’s proposed Community la a on in en enue o er a fi e wee period for Coastal View News. The articles will also be available at coastalview.com.
Carpinteria’s history is rich with the stories of the many cultures and families who have helped shape the coastal town into the community it is today. Over the next several weeks, Coastal View News will highlight selected panels from the Carpinteria Cultural Foundation’s (CCF) new mural project — a visual tribute to the people and traditions that built the Carpinteria Valley.
Carpinteria’s history is rich with the stories of the many cultures and families who have helped shape the coastal town into the community it is today. Over the next several weeks, Coastal View News will highlight selected panels from the Carpinteria Cultural Foundation’s (CCF) new mural project — a visual tribute to the people and traditions that built the Carpinteria Valley.
The project, known as the Community Plaza on Linden Avenue, features 10 murals created by Carpinteria artist Rick
The project, known as the Community Plaza on Linden Avenue, features 10 murals created by Carpinteria artist Rick
Sharp. Commissioned by the Carpinteria Cultural Foundation, the murals illustrate key chapters in local history, from the original Chumash inhabitants to the diverse groups who followed and contributed to Carpinteria’s development over the past century.
Sharp. Commissioned by the Carpinteria Cultural Foundation, the murals illustrate key chapters in local history, from the original Chumash inhabitants to the diverse groups who followed and contributed to Carpinteria’s development over the past century.
Each mural panel was developed through extensive research of historical records and community interviews conducted by members of the CCF and its advisors. e nis ed or s are designed to be installed as aluminum panels along the pergola behind the Seal Fountain on Linden Avenue — a site long considered the historic heart of Carpinteria.
Each mural panel was developed through extensive research of historical records and community interviews conducted by members of the CCF and its advisors. e nis ed or s are designed to be installed as aluminum panels along the pergola behind the Seal Fountain on Linden Avenue — a site long considered the historic heart of Carpinteria.
The project recently reached full funding and has received strong support from local civic organizations as it moves through the city’s review process.
The project recently reached full funding and has received strong support from local civic organizations as it moves through the city’s review process.
Through this five-part series, readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the people, cultures and moments that helped build Carpinteria — one panel at a time.
Through this five-part series, readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the people, cultures and moments that helped build Carpinteria — one panel at a time.
The Spanish-speaking people of the Carpinteria Valley had dwindled to a precious 100, plus or minus a few, by the beginning of the 20th century. e ostl identi ed as Californios. e valle ad eco e t e do ain of American settlers of various Protestant religious persuasions. Two major events turned t e tide into a ave of e ican igration t at roug t ac a Spanish-speaking presence to Carpinteria. One was the arrival of the out ern aci c railroad t at esta lis ed a train de ot at t e foot of inden Avenue in . e ot er as t e urc ase of t e et odist C urc the few remaining Spanish-speaking Catholics joined by some of the Italian Lobero family from Santa Barbara who came to Carpinteria upon the death of their patriarch José Lobero, founder of the Santa Barbara Lobero Theatre. e et odist C urc along anta onica oad eca e t e glesia an os in 1894. It served as the glue that bonded the dwindling Spanish-speakers and elco ed t e uge ave of e ican igrants o ere to co e to provide the labor for the agricultural boom that the train depot facilities made possible.
Designing the American pioneer era in Carpinteria on a mural was a tall task for the Carpinteria Cultural Foundation. Which pioneers should be included among so many candidates, and which events and ventures were ost critical in de ning Car interia Clearl ussel eat Car interia s rst prominent personage, had to be included. Serving in a variety of government positions in Santa Barbara under the de la Guerra and Carrillo dynasties, he moved to Carpinteria in 1858. Legend has it that he bought some of his rst acreage in Car interia for a air of ig oots and a saddle. e ig l in uential te en art l stead settled in and could clai to eing t e rst true visionar of at as to co e. e tested a variet of roduce and fruit trees and turned the acreage he bought into a park landscape of lush gardens. e ould t rig t in it t e e ers of t e Car interia eautiful organi ation toda . Andre ailard arriving in ig t co lete a ig Three” of Carpinteria’s early residents after statehood with a slew of entrepreneurial endeavors and an extensive number of family members, most, it appears, as industrious as he. But how can the families Fish, Cadwell, Cravens e ard ates iggins it ran lin gan ur ond and ot ers of t eir li e not e included
Key landmarks that are in the mural include the Serena Wharf (the Smith rot ers arf e ard s nn t e iggins As alt ining Co an t e Fish Seed Company (think lima beans) and the Ayala Grapevine. The Serena Wharf was the main vehicle for shipping things in and out of the valley, until the coming of t e out ern aci c ailroad in . aving our icture ta en at t e A ala ra evine was a must for residents and visitors alike and served as a venue for elections, weddings, church services and picnics. Note Carpinteria’s leading citizens under the Ayala Grapevine at the bottom right of the mural. Shepard’s Inn along Casitas Pass Road at Rincon Creek was a major Carpinteria tourist attraction and stagecoach stop which included Teddy Roosevelt, wealthy easterners looking for California sun and
e e ican A erican ural features t e glesia an os as its centeriece it a series of ostcard ictures of e ican A erican life est of inden Avenue in e ican o n a ter coined Car interia aut or istorian o n cCaffert in Aliso c ool or t e e ican C ildren . Note that artist Rick Sharp pictures a locomotive in the postcard at the top left that starts a rotation of e ican A erican scenes of life in a ostl c ronological order. e ostcard fra e or features an Car interia e ican A ericans of note too many to name for this article, but who will be listed in the QR Code that will accompany this mural. It highlights families and individuals whose labor, traditions and cultural values helped shape the identity of the town during the 20th century. Farmworkers, railroad laborers, merchants, musicians and parish families are rep-
resented as symbols of perseverance and community-building. Their contributions extended far beyond agriculture; they established neighborhoods, supported local businesses, strengthened parish life and preserved language, faith and cultural traditions that became woven into the fabric of Carpinteria.
Through celebrations, foodways, religious festivals and multigenerational family net or s e ican A ericans transfor ed e ican o n into a vi rant cultural center that sustained the valley during periods of economic growth and hardship ali e. e i ager re ects ot dail life and collective resilience c ildren at la fa ilies gat ered and or ers ose efforts ade Car interia s agricultural rosperity possible.
many royal families from Europe on the inn’s register. The asphalt mines would pave the streets of Carpinteria when cars, trucks and tractors replaced horses and buggies. Carpinteria’s major cash crops line the bottom of the mural. In chronological order t e li a ean as t e rst ig cas cro in t e alle s t e rst of its t e sold co erciall on a national scale. e t ca e alnuts it eat s acres of orchards (1890s) vying for the top spot in California into the turn of the 20th centur . e ons t en too t e s otlig t for decades reac ing t eir a e in t e s and helping Carpinteria cruise through the Great Depression. Avocados took the lemon’s crown and are still going strong, currently celebrated every October with the Avocado est. e o er industr a ainsta in Car interia s istor also continues to ouris . Car interia is a verita le arden of den an agricultural aradise ere virtually anything can grow.
Artist Rick Sharp’s composition intentionally presents these scenes as living memories, much like treasured postcards sent home, reminding viewers that the story of Car interia is inse ara le fro t e e ican A erican e erience. is anel onors not only migration but belonging in the enduring presence of a community whose in uence continues to s a e t e cultural social and econo ic life of Car interia toda
The American Pioneer Settlers
The Spanish-speaking people of the Carpinteria Valley had dwindled to a precious 100, plus or minus a few, by the beginning of the 20th century. e ostl identi ed as Californios. e valle ad eco e t e do ain of American settlers of various Protestant religious persuasions. Two major events turned t e tide into a ave of e ican igration t at roug t ac a Spanish-speaking presence to Carpinteria. One was the arrival of the out ern aci c railroad t at esta lis ed a train de ot at t e foot of inden Avenue in . e ot er as t e urc ase of t e et odist C urc the few remaining Spanish-speaking Catholics joined by some of the Italian Lobero family from Santa Barbara who came to Carpinteria upon the death of their patriarch José Lobero, founder of the Santa Barbara Lobero Theatre. e et odist C urc along anta onica oad eca e t e glesia an os in 1894. It served as the glue that bonded the dwindling Spanish-speakers and elco ed t e uge ave of e ican igrants o ere to co e to provide the labor for the agricultural boom that the train depot facilities made possible.
e e ican A erican ural features t e glesia an os as its centeriece it a series of ostcard ictures of e ican A erican life est of inden Avenue in e ican o n a ter coined Car interia aut or istorian o n cCaffert in Aliso c ool or t e e ican C ildren .
Designing the American pioneer era in Carpinteria on a mural was a tall task for the Carpinteria Cultural Foundation. Which pioneers should be included among so many candidates, and which events and ventures were ost critical in de ning Car interia Clearl ussel eat Car interia s rst prominent personage, had to be included. Serving in a variety of government positions in Santa Barbara under the de la Guerra and Carrillo dynasties, he moved to Carpinteria in 1858. Legend has it that he bought some of his rst acreage in Car interia for a air of ig oots and a saddle. e ig l in uential te en art l stead settled in and could clai to eing t e rst true visionar of at as to co e. e tested a variet of roduce and fruit trees and turned the acreage he bought into a park landscape of lush gardens. e ould t rig t in it t e e ers of t e Car interia eautiful organi ation toda . Andre ailard arriving in ig t co lete a ig Three” of Carpinteria’s early residents after statehood with a slew of entrepreneurial endeavors and an extensive number of family members, most, it appears, as industrious as he. But how can the families Fish, Cadwell, Cravens e ard ates iggins it ran lin gan ur ond and ot ers of t eir li e not e included
Key landmarks that are in the mural include the Serena Wharf (the Smith rot ers arf e ard s nn t e iggins As alt ining Co an t e Fish Seed Company (think lima beans) and the Ayala Grapevine. The Serena Wharf was the main vehicle for shipping things in and out of the valley, until the coming of t e out ern aci c ailroad in . aving our icture ta en at t e A ala ra evine was a must for residents and visitors alike and served as a venue for elections, weddings, church services and picnics. Note Carpinteria’s leading citizens under the Ayala Grapevine at the bottom right of the mural. Shepard’s Inn along Casitas Pass Road at Rincon Creek was a major Carpinteria tourist attraction and stagecoach stop which included Teddy Roosevelt, wealthy easterners looking for California sun and many royal families from Europe on the inn’s register. The asphalt mines would pave the streets of Carpinteria when cars, trucks and tractors replaced horses and buggies.
Note that artist Rick Sharp pictures a locomotive in the postcard at the top left that starts a rotation of e ican A erican scenes of life in a ostl c ronological order. e ostcard fra e or features an Car interia e ican A ericans of note too many to name for this article, but who will be listed in the QR Code that will accompany this mural. It highlights families and individuals whose labor, traditions and cultural values helped shape the identity of the town during the 20th century. Farmworkers, railroad laborers, merchants, musicians and parish families are represented as symbols of perseverance and community-building. Their contributions extended far beyond agriculture; they established neighborhoods, supported local businesses, strengthened parish life and preserved language, faith and cultural traditions that became woven into the fabric of Carpinteria.
Through celebrations, foodways, religious festivals and multigenerational family net or s e ican A ericans transfor ed e ican o n into a vi rant cultural center that sustained the valley during periods of economic growth and hardship ali e. e i ager re ects ot dail life and collective resilience c ildren at la fa ilies gat ered and or ers ose efforts ade Car interia s agricultural rosperity possible.
Carpinteria’s major cash crops line the bottom of the mural. In chronological order t e li a ean as t e rst ig cas cro in t e alle s t e rst of its t e sold co erciall on a national scale. e t ca e alnuts it eat s acres of orchards (1890s) vying for the top spot in California into the turn of the 20th centur . e ons t en too t e s otlig t for decades reac ing t eir a e in t e s and helping Carpinteria cruise through the Great Depression. Avocados took the lemon’s crown and are still going strong, currently celebrated every October with the Avocado est. e o er industr a ainsta in Car interia s istor also continues to ouris . Car interia is a verita le arden of den an agricultural aradise ere virtually anything can grow.
Artist Rick Sharp’s composition intentionally presents these scenes as living memories, much like treasured postcards sent home, reminding viewers that the story of Car interia is inse ara le fro t e e ican A erican e erience. is anel onors not only migration but belonging in the enduring presence of a community whose in uence continues to s a e t e cultural social and econo ic life of Car interia toda Read previous installments at www.coastalview.com
JENA JENKINS
In this column, we celebrate the power of aging well, with four segments designed to inspire and engage.
W for Wellness: tips and insights for maintaining a healthy body and mind.
I for Inspiration: real-life tales of individuals 55 and older who are living life to the fullest.
S for Sharpen: activities and exercises to keep your brain active and sharp.
E for Education: a quick lesson or fun trivia to keep you learning and growing. Join us on a journey of health, inspiration, mental agility and knowledge!
Wellness: Let the vibrations relax you
I would like to introduce you to a sound at . is is de nitel not utting your portable speaker underwater — that’s bad for everyone involved!
A sound bath is a relaxing, meditative experience where you surround yourself with sound waves from instruments like chimes, singing bowls or gongs. According to Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials, this practice can reduce stress, lower your
heart rate and activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which supports emotional well-being.
Come take a dip with us at Mindful Meditation every Thursday at 3:15 p.m. in the Veterans Memorial Building Main Hall.
Inspire: Writing until 100
Harry Bernstein loved to write. He spent most of his life dabbling in a mixture of writing jobs, including scriptwriting, freelance article writing and magazine editing. It wasn’t until after his retirement at the age of 63 that his true writing dreams came true.
As noted by Medium.com, he began writing his memoirs at the age of 93. His rst oo e nvisi le all as ver popular and highlighted his struggles growing up Jewish in northwest England. He went on to write several other successful oo s nis ing is nal or at t e age of 100. Long live our dreams!
Sharp: May in March
All of t e ans ers in t e ord de nition ga e egin it t e letters a I know it’s March — let’s just go with it.
•An insect famous for living only a very short time, often just a day.
• Complete chaos and disorder, usually with a little destruction mixed in.
• A creamy condiment made from eggs and oil, often spread on sandwiches.
• The ship that carried the Pilgrims to America in 1620.
Here is a little story about one of my favorite compliments. I like walking or swimming in the mornings. One early morning, it had just cleared up from an
overnight sprinkle. As I was walking, I was greeted by the most beautiful rainbow that appeared just over the tree line in my neighborhood. Because it was so early in the morning, I had no one to share the wonder of nature with.
Right at that moment, a man came out of his house, sleepyeyed and heading out to his construction job. I hurried over to i and said e c ec out t e rain o ust in case e was going to miss it. We both admired it for a second, and then we were on our way.
I ran into him several days later, since we were on similar morning schedules, and he hollered from across the street, o en see ou t in a out rain o s
This made my soul smile. What is it that is so magical about rainbows? Here are a couple of interesting facts. According to ational eogra ic t e actuall do not have an end — so good luck, you pot-of-gold hunters! Rainbows are actually full circles. Viewers in aircraft can sometimes see these circular rainbows. The traditional rainbow you know — the one all the songs are about — is produced when light hits a raindrop and is refracted at a precise 42-degree angle. However, rainbows can also be viewed around fog, sea spray and waterfalls. These images are the result of the refraction and reection of lig t on ater dro lets in t e air. If you see one, make sure to point it out to someone — you might just make their day.
A communication specialist whose heart lies in storytelling, Jena has a knack for bringing groups together and building understanding through programming. She currently serves as the community services program coordinator assigned to AgeWell for the city of Carpinteria and is a member of the Carpinteria-Summerland Fire Protection District Board of Directors. Jena holds a bachelor’s degree in social work and a master’s degree in counseling psychology. For more information on AgeWell and its programing visit carpin teriaca.gov/agewell.
In a world of large online printing companies and automated ordering systems, one Carpinteria business is proving that personal service still matters.
At Digi-Flex Solutions, located at 5320 Carpinteria Ave., Unit B, husband-andwife team Marcos and Caryn Chavez specialize in helping businesses, teams and individuals bring their ideas to life on everything from T-shirts and hats to stickers, labels and engraved items.
And if you ask Caryn what really sets the business apart, the answer is simple: service.
“Marcos is the king of friendly service,” she said. “All of his customers have his personal cell number. He truly makes everyone feel like they’re his only customer.”
e s o offers a ide range of cus tom services, including Direct-to-Film (DTF) apparel printing, embroidery, sublimation printing, engraving, stickers and labels, along with logo and design assistance for customers who need help bringing an idea to life.
One of the most unusual aspects of Digi-Flex is its “no minimum” approach for local customers.
“Someone can come in and order just one shirt or one hat if they want,” Caryn explained. “We know that sometimes people just need one item, and we try to help whenever we can.”
e usiness also offers local discounts and free delivery within Carpinteria, anot er re ection of o i ortant t e co munity has become to the Chavez family.
From labels to logos
Marcos’ journey into the custom printing world began in the family business, where he worked in the label manufacturing industry creating dies used to perforate labels.
When the industry slowed, the couple began exploring new opportunities while also dreaming of moving permanently to Carpinteria — a place they had fallen in love with during weekend visits from Orange County.
Those visits lasted five years, with the family driving back and forth nearly every weekend.
“Marcos makes every customer feel like they’re his only customer. That kind of service is what Digi-Flex is all about.”
— Caryn Chavez, co-owner
“We couldn’t wait to be here full time,” Caryn said.
Around that same time, Marcos launched Digi-Flex as a small side venture selling labels. Caryn suggested creating printed mugs with sample labels for clients — which led Marcos down a rabbit hole of research into custom printing.
Within a month, after countless YouTube tutorials and plenty of experimentation arcos urc ased is rst printer, opening the door to apparel printing and other branded merchandise.
Today the business serves a wide range of customers, including local businesses, sports teams, nonprofits, schools and families planning reunions or special events.
The Chavez family says Carpinteria’s strong sense of community is a big part of why Digi-Flex operates the way it does.
“We love Carp and the community so
much,” Caryn said. “It gives us so much joy to see a local customer happy with something we created.”
That approach has led to collaborations with a number of local businesses and events, including apparel designs for Yummy Yogurt and T-shirts created for Tacos Don Roge during the California Avocado Festival.
Marcos is also well known in the handball community, where he once played professionally. His involvement has led to custom gear and apparel orders from universities and tournaments, along with a line of gloves and jerseys that have developed a loyal following among players.
While Marcos handles the printing, embroidery and sales, Caryn manages accounting, marketing and design while also working a full-time remote job.
The couple says their partnership is
one of the business’ biggest strengths.
“We each do what we’re best at,” Caryn said. “At the end of the day, we’re the best partners ever.”
Their daughter, Gia, has also begun building her own small business in Carpinteria as a dog trainer and walker, continuing the family’s entrepreneurial streak.
As Digi-Flex continues to grow, Marcos is constantly exploring new techniques, including engraving photos on wood and etal uff rinting on a arel and combining embroidery with sublimation designs.
But no matter how much the business expands, the Chavez family says their focus will remain the same.
“We just want to keep helping our community and working with more local businesses,” Caryn said. “Carpinteria has given us so much, and we’re grateful to be part of it.”
Digi-Flex Solutions is typically open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., though the lights are often on later when ar os is finishing a rush ob for a customer. The shop can be reached by stopping by their Carpinteria Avenue location, isiting igi e now. om or on nstagram igi e solutions
PHOTOS BY ROBIN KARLSSON
on March 7, hundreds of community members gathered in celebration and support of local youth at the 2026 Watch Her rise Girls inc. Gala. Hosted on the organization’s campus in Carpinteria, the evening focused on investing in opportunities that help local girls thrive.
the annual gala highlighted the excellence of Girls inc. programs that build confidence, leadership and opportunities for girls. In addition to year round programming, Girls inc. provides more than $215,000 in scholarships each year to help ensure equitable access and invest in girls’ academic futures.
“our gala was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together to support girls,” said Jamie Collins, executive director of Girls inc. of Carpinteria. “thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the event raised $175,000 to help sustain programs that empower girls in our community.”
paul and Cheryl Wright of island Brewing Company were recognized for their longstanding commitment to the community and their support of opportunities for local girls. the organization also recognized lynda fairly as the event’s legacy leader sponsor for her generous support.
the honorees shared the spotlight with Girls inc. students enrolled in the eureka! program, who delivered personal stories about their Girls inc. experience and how they have grown in confidence, leadership and ambition.
the Girls inc. staff and planning committee expressed gratitude to everyone who attended and contributed to the event, noting that continued community support helps ensure girls in Carpinteria have access to programs that help them grow strong, smart and bold.
Thursday, March 12
AgeWell Senior Program: Pickleball Free Play Girls Inc. of Carpinteria, 5315 Foothill Road. 8-10 a.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Well Registration Assistance Day Carpinteria Valley Water District, 1301 Santa Ynez Ave., a.m. noon,, 1-4 p.m. sgma@cvwd.net, cgsa.org
Dementia Caregivers Support Group Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10:30 a.m. noon. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Free Lunch Program Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 12:15-1p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 8811279
AgeWell Senior Program: Food Bank Distribution Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 1-2 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 8811279
AgeWell Senior Program: Meditation Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 3:15-4 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca. gov, (805) 881-1279
English Language Conversation Group/Grupo de Conversación en In glés Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 8:30-10 a.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Free Music by Friendship Center Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, 865 Linden Ave. 10-11 a.m. carpinteriaartscenter.org, (805) 684-7789
Bellas Artes Senior Arts Crafts Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, 865 Linden Ave. 10 a.m. noon. carpinteriaartscenter.org, (805) 684-7789
Dungeons Dragons Club Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 3:30–5:15 p.m. Ages 12-17 carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Men Ag ing Well Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 5:30 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Architectural Review Board Meeting City Hall, 5775 Carpinteria Ave. 5:30 p.m. carpinteriaca.gov (805) 684-5405
Friday, March 13
Friday Fun Day Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10-11:30 a.m. For ages three to 11. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Tai Chi Together Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 10-11 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Free Senior Arts Crafts Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, 865 Linden Ave. 10 a.m. noon. carpinteriaartscenter.org, (805) 684-7789
AgeWell Senior Program: Free Lunch Program Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 12:15-1 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Free Music by Friendship Center Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, 865 Linden Ave. 2-3 p.m. carpinteriaartscenter.org, (805) 684-7789 Teen Advisory Board Biweekly Meet ing Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 3:10-4:30 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314 Peace Corner Vigil Carpinteria and Linden avenues, 5-6 p.m. carpindivisible@gmail.com
Saturday, March 14
ABOP Hazardous Waste Disposal City Hall, 5775 Carpinteria Ave. a.m. p.m. (805) 684-5405 Carpinteria Beautiful Meeting City Hall, 5775 Carpinteria Ave. 9:30 a.m. carpinteriabeautiful@gmail.com
Saturday English Language Conver sation Group/Grupo de Conversación en Inglés los sabados Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 9-10 a.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Exhibit Opening: Natural Beauty Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, 865 Linden Ave. 4-6 p.m. carpinteriaartscenter.org, (805) 684-7789
Exhibit Reception: It’s Complicated Rubenstein Chan, 410 Palm Ave., Unit B3, 5-8 p.m. rubensteinchan.com, (805)
576-6152
The Sandpipers-Groovy 60s Music brewLAB, 4191 Carpinteria Ave. #8, 6-9 p.m. (805) 318-9251
Doublewide Kings Play the Allman Brothers Band The Alcazar Theatre, 4916 Carpinteria Ave. p.m. $75+ thealcazar.org, (805) 684-6380
Sunday, March 15
Live Music: Americana Cats Island Brewing Company, 5049 6th St. 2-5 p.m. islandbrewingcompany.com (805) 7458272
Doublewide Kings Play the Allman Brothers Band The Alcazar Theatre, 4916 Carpinteria Ave. 4 p.m. $75+ thealcazar.org, (805) 684-6380
Monday, March 16
Preschool Story Time Carpinteria
Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10-10:30 a.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Line Danc ing Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 10:30-11:30 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: Free Lunch Program Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 12:15-1 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Monday Mahjong All levels of play. p.m. (805) 729-1310
AgeWell Senior Program: Mind Games Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 1:302:30 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: The Con versation Circle Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave.
3-4 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Carpinteria Book Club Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 1-4 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Special Joint City Council, Planning Commission Architectural Review Board Meeting City Hall, 5775 Carpinteria Ave. 5:30 p.m. carpinteriaca.gov (805) 684-5405
Introducción las computadoras–Clase Bilingüe Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 6-8:15 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Tuesday, March 17
AgeWell Senior Program: Walking Club Meet at Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. a.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 8811279
Carpinteria Writers’ Group Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10 a.m. noon. carpinterialibrary. org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Mind Body Balance Exercise Veterans Me -
See CALENDAR contuned on page 17
The Carpinteria Community Library will host a free community movie night later this month, inviting residents of all ages to enjoy a film and fresh popcorn together.
The event, Popcorn & A Movie Night, will take place Friday, March 27, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the library’s Community Room.
The featured film will be the family adventure movie “Hugo.” Library staff will provide compli-
morial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 11 a.m. noon. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: Free Lunch Program Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 12:15-1 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 8811279
AgeWell Senior Program: Bridge Group Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 1-4 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Spanish Conversation Group Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 2-3 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Carpinteria Songwriters Circle Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 4-5:30 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Al-Anon Meeting Faith Lutheran Church, 1335 Vallecito Place. 6:30 p.m. Carpinteria Improv Classes The Alcazar Theatre, 4916 Carpinteria Ave. 7-9 p.m. $10 at the door. thealcazar.org, (805) 684-6380
Wednesday, March 18
AgeWell Senior Program: Pickleball for Beginners Girls Inc. of Carpinteria, 5315 Foothill Road. 8-10 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Wednesday, March 18th
mentary popcorn while guests atc t e l in a festive, relaxed setting designed to bring the community together for a shared movie experience.
The screening is free and open to the public, and attendees of all ages are welcome. Organizers encourage families, friends and neighbors to come enjoy t e l and a fun evening at t e li rar
The Carpinteria Community Library is located at 5141 Carpinteria Ave.
AgeWell Senior Program: Carpinteria Men’s Coffee Club Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 8:30-9:30 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Babies Are The Best Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 9-10 a.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Science for Teens Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 11 a.m. 12:30 p.m. For ages 11- to 13-years-old. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Creative Art Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 10-11:30 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: Free Lunch Program Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 12:15-1 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 8811279
Carpinteria Knitters Group Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 1-3 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Men Aging Well “Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Death and Dying but Were Afraid to Ask” Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 5:30 p.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
The Alcazar Theatre is a historic theatre that is 98 years old located in Carpinteria. We present live music, theatrical productions, comedy, movies and other community programming.
We are looking for someone to fill our paid Operational Lead position. This is a part-time position, 15-25 hours per week. Compensation of $28-$35 per hour, depending on experience.
Sunday, May 17
A reader sends a halo to Jude Pet for tracking down a client’s stolen bike and making sure it got returned to its rightful owner.
You will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations for all events at the theatre. Strong organizational skills, positive communication, and attention to detail are desired. Theatre experience preferred. See our website for further information.
9:54 a.m. / Unregistered Firearm / 1400 block Sterling Avenue
Deputies responded to a call about a firearm and contacted a man who report edly had an unregistered Kimber 1911 firearm in his possession. The firearm was taken from the man and secured into the Santa Barbara Sheriff s Office property department for safekeeping.
was recovered and booked into santa Barbara Sheriff s Office property.
a reader sends a halo to Burlene for making the Carpinteria lumberyard nursery area a joy to visit. “Her outgoing personality (southern style), friendly conversation and plant knowledge make it a pleasure to visit and shop.”
could never
11:44 a.m. / Misdemeanor Hit and Run / 6500 block Rincon Road
hit and run call, but the male subject ed the scene traveling southbound on rincon road. the man continued southbound on the northbound off-ramp of Highway 101 at rincon road. Deputies checked the area and were unable to locate the subject.
2:12 p.m. / Narcotics / 4600 block Carpinteria Avenue
and contacted a woman who had two outstanding warrants: one out of Hermosa Beach but was non-extraditable, and the other out of santa Barbara. the woman was arrested for the outstanding warrant out of santa Barbara County.
3 p.m. / 015F / Linden Avenue and Malibu Drive
thealcazar.org 4916 Carpinteria Ave. Downtown Carpinteria
6:15 p.m. / Theft / 3200 block Via Real
a caller reported that she believes her laptop and credit cards were stolen by a female neighbor who lives at the polo field apartments. follow up by deputies.
6 p.m. / Towed Abandoned Vehicle /
Deputies received complaints about an abandoned vehicle parked near sandpiper liquor. the vehicle was tagged and marked on thursday, May 14. the vehicle was checked and was not moved. the
8:28 p.m. / Meth Possession / 1100
a man drove into a parking lot not wearing his seatbelt. A traffic stop was initiated, and he admitted to being in possession of a meth pipe. During a search of the vehicle, his meth pipe was located, but also a baggie with 3.7 grams of meth. the subject was cited for the violations.
a black purse was found at linden and Malibu, then booked for safe keeping. the owner was not contacted.
Sunday, May 17
10:12 p.m. / Weapon and Dope Violations / Hales Lane and Via Real
This report covers March 2 – 8, 2026
CVN’s Seal Watch weekly report, written by Seal Watch volunteers, covers activities at the Harbor Seal Rookery. The group can be reached at carpsealwatch@ gmail.com or (805) 364-3194. The rookery is located immediately east of Casitas ier et een Car interia luffs ature reserve and Car interia tate eac . There is no vehicle access from Dump Road.
8 p.m. / Trespassing / 3200 block Via Real
a caller who is renting a home on the polo field reported that several people forced their way into her rental home and started yelling and insulting her family. Deputies arrived and contacted six people, who admitted entering the home after they were directed to come look at the damaged caused by the caller. the caller showed cell phone video of the suspects entering the home without permission and were heard and seen yelling at the caller and her family. the husband-suspect fled across the polo field and did not return to the scene. a complaint will be forwarded to the Da’s office for review.
a woman and man were contacted as their vehicle was getting dropped off by a tow truck. the woman is on active probation and a search of her property showed she had meth, a meth pipe and a container of pepper spray. she is a convicted felon and prohibited from owning pepper spray. a baggie of meth was found in the center console and since no one wanted to claim it, the man was given ownership since it was his vehicle.
3:38 a.m. / Dope Violations / 4100 block Via Real
Harbor seals have excellent underwater vision. Their large eyes have many rod cells rece tive to lo lig t levels. ere is a la er of re ecting lates e ind t e retina li e cat e es ic act as irrors to re ect lig t ac t roug t e retina a second time increasing the light gathering ability of the rod cells. Underwater the pupils dilate into a wide circle that gathers as much light as possible; with these adaptations harbor seals can see relatively well in dark and murky water.
VISITORS
5 p.m. / Open Beer Violation / Linden Avenue and 9th Street
The count was 1,571. Volunteers greeted people from South Korea, Canada, South Africa, Spain, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Hungary, Arizona, Washington e as llinois io e or Colorado ar land ic igan issouri regon irginia e a s ire innesota llinois isconsin assac usetts Ala a a evada e e ico Connecticut ort Carolina a aii eorgia and Washington D.C.
a man was cited and released for possession of an open container.
DISTURBANCES
5 a.m. / Welfare Check / 2100 block Ortega Hill Road
Paddleboarders approaching inside the pier length scared seals into the ocean on t o occasions. e s eriff s de art ent res onded to eac goers under t e ier.
MORE INFORMATION
a caller reported that his girlfriend’s 27-year-old son had a bad dream and ran out of the house naked and was last seen running towards summerland. Deputies responded and located a man walking nude on orth ameson near Sheffield. the man claimed he smoked marijuana with friends and wanted to go to the hospital to detox. His mother drove him to the hospital.
a woman and man were in a vehicle with a stolen license plate, reported to santa Barbara police Department. a traffic stop was initiated, and it was determined the vehicle was not stolen, but was rented a few weeks ago by the woman. she thought the “perM” on the arizona license plate meant it was only a “permit” for the vehicle and not an actual license plate. so, to avoid getting pulled over, they placed a stolen plate on the car, she said. after a search of nearby motel rooms associated with the subjects, they, and the woman’s sister, were cited for possession of stolen property, meth and paraphernalia. further investigation will be done for the fraudulently obtained eBt cards.
Thursday, May 21
Please consider honoring the Marine Mammal Protection Act by not walking the sanctuary beach all year. Do not bring dogs, bicycles or loud voices to view the seals. ar or seals en distur ed a ee and eco e se arated fro t eir pups. Volunteers ask that dogs always remain outside the rope area. Carpinteria Seal Watch volunteers monitor our local seal rookery. More volunteers are always needed. Contact Seal Watch at carpsealwatch@gmail.com or call i ou’d li e to elp
Monday, May 18
10:41 a.m. / Tossed Mail / Via Real and Carpinteria Creek
Mail was found scattered off a county access road by a Caltrans site. the mail
8:47 a.m. / Driving with False Registration / Carpinteria and Palm avenues
a man was driving with a false registration tab. He was cited for the violation and allowed to park the vehicle at his mechanic shop located nearby.
10:06 p.m. / Suspended License / Via Real and Vallecito Road
a man was stopped for not displaying license plates on his truck. a records check showed his driver’s license was
a reader sends a halo to the generous person for paying for the reader’s gas when she forgot her atM card at the gas station. “i’m sorry i chose the most expensive oil, i’d love to reimburse you, and thank you. i’m deeply moved by your generosity.”
A reader sends a halo to Carpinteria Sanitary District for coming to t e rescue for riends of t e i rar t is ee . ou saved us and e re so grateful
a reader sends a halo to Sean and Dayna for being wonderful neighbors and helping the reader through another frazzled mom situation.
A reader sends a halo to the two women in front of Aliso School who came to the aid of a fallen bike rider with ointment and band-aids. “They lingered until the rider as feeling good. e even oug t us ater at t e iesta ar et
a reader sends a halo to the 93013 Fund, Uncle Chen Restaurant and Marybeth Carty for the surprise delivery of a delicious dinner complete with a fortune cookie, candy bar and painted rock. “Wonderful kindness and quite a thrill!”
a reader sends a halo to the anonymous person who left a $100 donation in the H P of Carpinteria office mail slot this past week. “Thank you for your kindness.”
a reader sends a halo to the staff of Jack’s Bistro for staying open during Covid-19. “always a smile no matter how busy. a great way to start the day.”
a reader sends a halo to the Daykas for always being there to help with anything and never complaining. “Many thanks to the best neighbors ever. We love you all dearly.”
A reader sends a halo to the person who found the reader’s coin purse at Smart & Final and turned it in to t e anager. o good to live in a ind onest s all to n.
a reader sends a halo to Mayor Wade Nomura for the city s beautiful ower wreath at the Carpinteria Cemetery for the Memorial Day program.
a reader sends a halo to Tami and John at robitaille’s for their constant smiles and over the top customer service. “The wedding favors were loved by all and brought a bit of Carpinteria to the seattle wedding!”
A reader sends a halo to volunteers who keep Franklin Trail open for all to use. an s for t e t ousands of ours of ard or over t e ears. ou ave e t our trail o en t roug re and ood. olunteer trail grou s ic cle clu s re cre runners far ers usinesses and so an individuals or ing toget er. ig t on
a reader sends a halo to those who acknowledge people with disabilities. “When you encounter a person in a wheelchair or walking with a walker, please smile and say hello to that person.”
a reader sends a halo to Lance Lawhon at the Carpinteria sanitation District for helping Kim’s Market.
a reader sends a halo to the Carpinteria Beautiful lady picking up trash in a neighborhood near the beach. “thank you! We need all the help we can get keeping trash picked up in the neighborhoods on the beach-side of the tracks.”
pool.
a reader sends a halo to Kassandra Quintero at The Spot. “ hen the roof top ag was twisted and lodged in the rain gutter, Quintero jumped into action and climbed up to the roof and untangled it so that it could wave freely. Way to show patriotism!”
A reader sends a halo to the kind neighbor who stopped traffic to wrap the reader’s cat in a blanket after being hit by a car on Casitas Pass Road dying instantly. Also, a halo to the deputy who brought her to the Animal Medical Clinic and to Connie at the clinic who called the reader softl and indl telling of ug s assing and giving t e o ortunit to sa one last good e. lee ell darling.
A reader sends a halo to Leah Harding for last week’s column encouraging productive auses and restorative rea s. sure need re inding on t ose. an s unc es
a reader sends a halo to Carpinterians who put out boxes in front of their homes full of surplus oranges, avocados, etc. from their trees. “thank you for sharing your abundance.”
a reader sends a halo to Emma and Justin. “it was a wonderful wedding, great food, spectacular location and great people! it was moving and wonderful.”
A reader sends a halo to Monte Vista Dog Park.“Such a great place to have for our dogs in t e co unit
a reader sends a halo to Nikki at H AT Culinary. “I went to my first class this week end with my sister, who has been to four so far. i had the best time! someone get this girl a T show, she should be on the Food etwork already.”
a reader sends a halo to all the beach community residents. “thank you for parking in front of your home with your permit.”
a reader sends a halo to Diana, a caregiver at Carpinteria senior lodge for nearly three years.
A reader sends halo to city of Carpinteria staff member Mindy Fogg for acknowledging having received emails. “Guess we have come to the point where common courtes is so rare it s i ortant to ig lig t so ot ers a learn.
A reader sends a halo to Victor Garza for his expertise and assistance.
a reader sends a halo to Tom Sweeney for going out on elm avenue by the beach to clean up plastic bottles, bags, dirty gloves and masks.
a reader sends a halo to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the local vet for working diligently to save the rincon Beach bear. “it’s a terrible shame to lose one of these magnificent creatures; however, I wouldn t want it to suffer to a miserable death.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to people who spray on fragrance before going to the gym. lease e considerate of eo le it scent sensitivities.
a reader sends a halo to Bill and Rosana Swing for spending their saturday taking photos for unior arriors Football. “ e appreciate all you do for our families, play ers and program. you rock!”
a reader sends a pitchfork to the new parking zones. “all the “no parking/two hour” signs just made people park in my neighborhood. seventh and the neighboring streets are a packed parking lot.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to the locals who are not supporting the legacy restaurants in the Downtown T.
a reader sends a halo to DJ Hecktic for coming out early saturday morning to support the Junior Warriors. “it made the kids so happy to hear you say their names—you’re a local celebrity to them!”
a reader sends a pitchfork to those who lied on their fafsa and took scholarships away from kids who need it.
Submit Halos & Pitchforks online at coastalview.com.
A reader sends a pitchfork to the Sheriff’s Department for deciding to not enforce laws on electric motorcycles. “What other ordinances must the city create to ic u t e slac of an agenc t at s aslee at t e eel
All submissions are subject to editing.
A reader sends a pitchfork to the person who robbed a local small business by paying it a counterfeit ill. uc a sad s a eful act.
a reader sends a halo to Diana Rigby, superintendent of schools, and Debra Herrick, director of Boys irls Club, for removing the toxic uphorbia fire sticks from the pots and landscape.
suspended. the man was cited, and his vehicle was released to a licensed driver.
2:37 a.m. / Public Intoxication / Bailard Avenue
two men were contacted in a parked truck and both were extremely intoxicated with open containers of alcohol observed in the vehicle. one man was not being the most cooperative, but once he was convinced to exit the vehicle, a pat down search of his person was conducted. Deputies located a collapsible baton in the man’s front waistband. He was cited and both were released to a sober friend.
he found a small baggie containing a white powdery substance underneath the driver’s seat of his recently purchased vehicle. the man stated he purchased the vehicle three weeks ago but didn t find the small baggie until he’d removed the driver s seat to fix the reclining mecha nism. the incident was documented, and the baggie was booked into santa Barbara Sheriff s Office property for destruction.
Friday, May 22
Saturday, May 23
5:49 a.m. / Domestic Violence / 4100 block Via Real
Meet Jack, an amazing dog who is still searching for the forever home he truly deserves. After spending an incredible 920 days in the shelter, ac is nall en o ing so e ell earned ti e in a foster home — but what he really needs now is a permanent family, so he never has to return to t e s elter. ven etter ac s ado tion fee has been fully sponsored.
7:41 a.m. / Theft / 5500 block Calle Arena
Deputies responded after a woman reported her residence was burglarized the prior night. the woman stated a cartoon of almond milk and tools were taken from her garage. she told the reporting deputy that the tools belonged to her daughter’s boyfriend. the deputy attempted to contact the man via telephone multiple times with no response. the woman stated her garage door was unlocked during the night and is in the process of getting a new lock. she did not have any suspect information at the time. the incident was documented, and patrol will follow-up for further details of the stolen items.
Jack is a special boy who takes a little time to build trust with new people, but once he does, he becomes a responsive, well-behaved and deeply loyal companion. Foster families experienced with Rottweilers say he is an absolute delight, and s elter staff couldn t agree ore. He does well with many calm dogs, both big and s all. ac is affectionate and la ful ut also knows how to relax and behave when left alone. Like many dogs, he simply needs a few days to settle into a new routine — and once he does, he shines.
Deputies responded to a motel on Via real for a report of a domestic violence incident. upon arrival, a deputy contacted a man and woman in the parking lot. after contacting both subjects, there were visible injuries on both parties. Due to con icting statements regarding their mutual altercation and obvious injuries, both parties were arrested for corporal injury on a spouse.
10:36 a.m. / Hit and Run / Cameo and Casitas Pass roads
After nearly three years waiting, Jack is ready for the stability and love of a forever home.
To learn more about adopting Jack or arranging a meet-and-greet, email sbcassouthfostercoordinator@gmail.com or text his advocate, DeAnn, at (805) 895-2035.
Deputies responded to a report a of a black sedan crashing into a parked water truck. While en route, it was also reported the male sub ect driving the sedan ed the scene on foot. upon arrival, deputies observed the sedan abandoned in the middle Cameo road with major damage to the front right passenger wheel Submit Halos & Pitchforks online at coastalview.com. Submissions subject to editing.
2:07 p.m. / Found Drugs / 6000 block Jacaranda Way a man was contacted after reporting
The Howard School recently hosted its Special Person Luncheon, a tradition where students from all grade levels are able to invite a special person in their life to join them for lunch at school.
From left, Rick Wing and his grandson Fox ardin en o lunc at e oward Sc ool’s Special Person Lunch.
“Lots of parents, grandparents and relatives joined for a lively and fun afternoon,” said Howard’s Associate Head of School Anita Betancourt. “Members of the Howard School community had a great time with their loved ones.”
oward student inne an ’ onnell e plores ewton’s irst aw of Motion with a long strand of beads. RIGHT: Shane Ervin shows off a bubble at e oward Sc ool’s annual Science po.
The Howard School held its annual Science Expo on Feb. 20, allowing pre-school through fourth grade students to explore and participate in various science demonstrations, led by parent volunteers.
The stations included a pH lab demonstrating how cabbage juice can change color in t e resence of acids and ases an air ressure la ere after lig ting a re in a glass bottle, an egg is sucked inside; and hands-on activities like creating Oobleck or making elephant toothpaste through a rapid chemical reaction.
The Howard School is located at 5050 El Carro Lane.
The Rotary Club of Carpinteria Noon recently presented a check for $6,200 to the Mariachi Estrellas program, Carpinteria’s mariachi youth group, at a recent club meeting.
“Mariachi Estrellas has become a vibrant part of Carpinteria’s cultural landscape, inspiring young musicians while celebrating the rich traditions of mariachi music,” the club stated in a press release. “The Rotary Club’s contribution will help further the organization’s programming, performances and educational outreach.”
The check was presented by club member Barry Enticknap and accepted by Suzanne Requejo and Mónica Solórzanoo on behalf of the Mariachi Estrellas. “Watch for some outstanding musical performances by Mariachi Estrellas at the upcoming Rotary Talent Showcase on April 11,” said club President David Powdrell.
Each Sudoku
Margie E. Burke
Monday, March 2
rs ncident ump oad
A male subject exposed himself on a public beach just east of the Seal Rookery hike trail. Deputies attempted to locate the subject, but he was gone upon de uties arrival. An offense re ort as authored.
Tuesday, March 3
rs arcotics bloc
Carpinteria venue
A subject was contacted in a local parking lot. He was acting erratically, walking in tra c and s outing at invisi le gures. The subject admitted using methamphetamine in the last 24 hours. A records check showed him to have three outstanding misdemeanor warrants. The subject was arrested and booked into Santa Barbara County Jail.
Electricity came to Carpinteria in August of 1914.
rs iolations
P.C. Higgins displays one of his 27 water wells and the pump used to force water to his lucrative lemon groves.
acaranda a ro ation noti ed anta ar ara er iff s ce de uties t at onitoring showed a recently released subject out on bail for stalking and restraining order violation, was in the exclusion zone surrounding the victim’s residence. Shortly after calling, Probation advised that the trac er as no travelling nort bound on Highway 101. At 1425 hours, the victim called 911 to report that the subject was attempting to enter his rear gate. A deputy located the subject in the carport, and he was taken into custody. These were at least the sixth and seventh violations of the restraining order. Probation advised that the subject was released on bail and not subject to their supervision outside of location. o nson as booked into Santa Barbara County Jail.
History highlights Higgins
rs ncident bloc
rs Propert ound bloc oot ill oad
Editor’s note: Longtime Carpinterian Lou Panizzon recently discovered a copy of a 1940 Directory of Carpinteria Valley and Summerland online and forwarded it to Coastal View news. Published by the Carpinteria Herald, Coastal View news’ predecessor, the 30-page book includes addresses—no phone numbers—for every family listed. Also included is a “Historical sketch” about Carpinteria Valley that will be reprinted here in sections over the next few weeks. The first several installments published in CVn, can be found at coastalview.com.
a lia Court
A victim reported that his partner slapped him with an open hand. No visible injuries were observed, and deputies were unable to contact the suspect. The victim left the area and stated he would be staying with a friend from now on. The subject did not want to press charges and did not want a protection order.
suBMitteD
Wednesday, March 4
The reporting party found a handgun on the property near the roadway. This was the location of a previous pursuit by California Highway Patrol. A deputy responded and determined the weapon to e a C o ered ellet istol. e air gun was booked for observation.
Brimming with energy, ideas and ambition, p.C. Higgins played an integral role in Carpinteria’s history. “Mr. Higgins is one of the most progressive citizens in the valley, and is the first and foremost in all matters looking to its permanent betterment,” stated an article published in a special edition of “The Summerland Advance Courier” from February 1900 entitled “Southern Santa Barbara County and its Resources.”
rs ncident Carpinteria venue and e nolds venue
Though his name and face are splashed all over our local past, Phineas Clark Higgins started his life in illinois and did not land on Carpinteria soil until he was 40 years old. after moving west to the tiny California town in 1882, Higgins purchased 108 acres between Carpinteria Creek and what is now Bailard Avenue and began farming beans and hay. Two years after his arrival, he made the first bean cutter in the valley, impressing locals with his inventiveness.
the town of Carpinteria started in early to securing those conveniences which make life more pleasant. as soon as electric light lines had been carried to Carpinteria, a lighting district was organized and has been added to from time to time until the town is better lighted than most incorporated cities of the lower class.
rs Public nto ication
inden venue and Sand land oad
Deputies responded to a call of a male subject harassing people as they walked by the bus stop. Upon arrival, deputies contacted the subject who was cat calling women as they passed by. He was slurring his speech and presented a strong odor of alcohol. He was arrested and booked at the Santa Barbara County Main jail for public intoxication.
A car was pulled over for excessive speed. A records check of the vehicle showed that the registration had expired in 2021. The driver of the vehicle said he had owned the vehicle since 2021 and had never paid for the registration. The vehicle was towed.
Gas mains were brought into the valley a few years afterwards, which gave to Carpinteria the two public utilities that have added so much to the comfort of the inhabitants.
a new crop grabbed Higgins’ interest, and in 1891, he planted 15 acres in lemons. the lemons prospered in the local environment, and Higgins added eight more acres the following year and 18 more in 1894. as his lemon business blossomed, his need for irrigation grew as well. He developed water wells throughout his property, tapping into the water table and using 67,500 gallons per acre each six weeks. A 15 horsepower gas engine drove Higgins’ water pump, forcing the life-giving substance through a series of irrigation pipes that led to his lemon trees.
the Carpinteria sanitary District was organized in 1928 and in 1929 the system was established. The town now has as fine a sanitary system as will be found anywhere. to these districts has been added the pest control district by which the mosquito and other pests have been eliminated.
Saturday, March 7
rs e t bloc alnut venue
so that all in all, the residents of Carpinteria have established all of those modern conveniences that are to be found in any of the incorporated areas of the nation, providing for the comfort of the residents as well as the numerous visitor who come here to enjoy “the World’s safest Beach.”
the success of Higgins’ lemon-growing operation caused him to outgrow the santa Barbara lemon packinghouse, so he constructed his own packing facility near the Carpinteria railroad station in 1898. Meanwhile, the savvy businessman was taking full advantage of the seams of asphaltum located on his property along the coast. the Higgins asphalt mine supplied santa Barbara County with material for many of its first paved roads.
Thursday, March 5
rs ncident bloc
Casitas Pass oad
Deputies responded to a domestic incident. The door was slightly open and noises were heard inside the house and deputies attempted to give notice. When deputies opened the spring door to knock on the wooden door, a medium size dog came out and bit a deputy twice. The deputy was checked out by medics who found no serious injuries.
Built in the late 1800s, the rockwell house on Carpinteria avenue is a piece of local history that now appropriately houses angels antiques and its treasure trove of historic artifacts. the home was built to shelter the growing family of John and isabel rockwell, who ultimately had 16 children (though only 12 survived to adulthood). on feb. 21, 1914, John, a rural mail carrier, was killed in a massive rainstorm while delivering mail. His widow was forced to sell off most of the family’s land piece by piece, but she retained the home. isabel’s ill-fated second marriage didn’t last long, and she picked up her brood and relocated to fillmore for a few years. later, she returned to Carpinteria, moved back into the rockwell house and eventually married a younger man named Coy rhodes and lived with him in the home until her death in 1951. the house was sold a few years later to the Husted family, then to the Babcock family, who converted it into angels antiques.
To learn more about Carpinteria’s unique and interesting past, visit the Carpinteria Valley Museum of History, open Tuesday through Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. at 956 Maple Ave.
Higgins also devoted his energy to the construction of a massive house along the old Coast Highway (now Carpinteria avenue). the house, an elaborate, three-story structure, was located in the field next to what is now Dump Road. Higgins was personally responsible for creating many of the ornate, carved wood embellishments found throughout the home.
Much of the Higgins property was eventually sold to standard oil. By 1965, the empty Higgins house had slowly deteriorated; it had become a fire hazard and was becoming an eyesore. It was demolished by Standard Oil, but many of its finer elements were preserved by the Carpinteria Valley Historical society and incorporated into the construction of the history museum. a visit to the museum will reveal Higgins’ door frames, carved wooden trim, faucet hardware, display cases, phonograph, fireplace mantel and much more.
Friday, March 6
rs ncident bloc
Carpinteria venue
This article was originally published in CVN on April 23, 2009. To learn more about Carpinteria’s unique and interesting past, visit the Carpinteria Valley Museum of History, open Tuesday through Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. at 956 Maple Ave.
Deputies responded to a local elementary school to the report of a man on the railroad behind the school with a handgun. A lockdown protocol was initiated at the school. Within 10 minutes of being in the area, deputies located the subject, who was carrying an umbrella and a cell one not a rear . e loc do n as released.
A subject from Valencia entered the open garage bay of the Carpinteria-Summerland Fire Protection District Station and stole t eir o cial ar ed ire Department pickup truck. The vehicle was unlocked, and the keys were in the ignition. After discovering the vehicle as stolen re g ters c ased after t e subject and boxed him in with two other fire department vehicles at Palm and Carpinteria avenues. Deputies arrested the subject without incident. The subject admitted to using methamphetamine for the past several days and experiencing delusions t at de uties fro a differ ent county were searching for him and attempting to harm him. The subject claimed he took the truck to drive to the police station. The subject was booked into Santa Barbara County Jail.
rs ncident bloc ia eal
A subject was found in a local parking lot drinking beer out of a 24-ounce can. When contacted, the subject was stumbling, had a strong odor of alcohol and had urinated on himself. The subject was arrested and taken to Santa Barbara County Jail.
Let Coastal View News advice columnist Donnie Nair share her witty wisdom with you. Email Donnie@coastalview.com with your questions. Advice seekers will be kept anonymous and confidential.
PHOTOS BY ROBIN KARLSSON
Carpinteria Valley little league returned for opening weekend for its 29th season on saturday, March 7, with dozens of young Carpinterians donning their uniforms to tee off a new season at el Carro park.
opening day was an all-day event for the league, starting at 9 a.m., with volunteers preparing pancakes for breakfast and burgers for lunch. the Carpinteria Valley little league is open to local children ages five to 15. The next big event for the league will be Dodger Day, on april 26. those interested in learning more about the league may visit Carpll.com.
by Margie E. Burke
by Margie E. Burke
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in CVN on April 23, 2009.
Brimming with energy, ideas and ambition, P.C. Higgins played an integral role in Carpinteria’s history. “Mr. Higgins is one of the most progressive citizens in t e valle and is t e rst and fore ost in all matters looking to its permanent betterment,” stated an article published in a special edition of The Summerland Advance Courier from February 1900 entitled “Southern Santa Barbara County and its Resources.”
Though his name and face are splashed all over our local past, Phineas Clark Higgins started his life in Illinois and did not land on Carpinteria soil until he was 40 years old. After moving west to the tiny California town in 1882, Higgins purchased 108 acres between Carpinteria Creek and what is now Bailard Avenue and began farming beans and hay. Two ears after is arrival e ade t e rst bean cutter in the valley, impressing locals with his inventiveness.
divider 56 Crackerjack Up-and-coming 57 Fill beyond full goes around 59 Grace period? world 60 Clinched Organic solvent 61 "Hello" or Eliminate "Goodbye"
for, with 49 Wanted poster word Hepburn-Grant 51 They roll in 1963 52 Dropped a line pottery 55 Become firm Seafood sauce 56 Circus performer to see 59 Wharton degree Whistle blower 61 By means of Kitchen gadget
A new crop grabbed Higgins’ interest, and in 1891, he planted 15 acres in lemons. The lemons prospered in the local environment, and Higgins added eight more acres the following year and 18 more in 1894. As his lemon business blossomed, his need for irrigation grew as well. He developed water wells throughout his property, tapping into the water table and using 67,500 gallons per acre each six weeks. A 15-horsepower gas engine drove Higgins’ water pump, forcing the life-giving substance through a series of irrigation pipes that led to his lemon trees.
The success of Higgins’ lemon-growing operation caused him to outgrow the Santa Barbara lemon packinghouse, so he constructed his own packing facility near the Carpinteria railroad station in 1898. Meanwhile, the savvy businessman was taking full advantage of the seams of asphaltum located on his property along the coast. The Higgins asphalt mine supplied
Electricity came to Carpinteria in August of 1914.
P.C. Higgins displays one of his 27 water wells and the pump used to force water to his lucrative lemon groves.
incorporated into the construction of the history museum. A visit to the museum will reveal Higgins’ door frames, carved
Editor’s note: Longtime Carpinterian Lou Panizzon recently discovered a copy of a 1940 Directory of Carpinteria Valley and Summerland online and forwarded it to Coastal View news. Published by the Carpinteria Herald, Coastal View news’ predecessor, the 30-page book includes addresses—no phone numbers—for every family listed. Also included is a “Historical sketch” about Carpinteria Valley that will be reprinted here in sections over the next few weeks. The first several installments published in
wooden trim, faucet hardware, display cases onogra re lace antel and much more.
P.C. Higgins displays one of his 27 water wells and the pump used to force water to his lucrative lemon groves. Santa Barbara County with material for an of its rst aved roads. Higgins also devoted his energy to the construction of a massive house along the Old Coast Highway (now Carpinteria Avenue). The house, an elaborate, three-story structure as located in t e eld ne t to what is now Dump Road. Higgins was personally responsible for creating many of the ornate, carved wood embellishments found throughout the home.
Much of the Higgins property was eventually sold to Standard Oil. By 1965, the empty Higgins house had slowly deteriorated it ad eco e a re a ard and was becoming an eyesore. It was demolished by Standard Oil, but many of its ner ele ents ere reserved t e Carpinteria Valley Historical Society and
the town of Carpinteria started in early to securing those conveniences which make life more pleasant. as soon as electric light lines had been carried to Carpinteria, a lighting district was organized and has been added to from time to time until the town is better lighted than most incorporated cities of the lower class.
Brimming with energy, ideas and ambition, .C. Higgins played an integral role in Carpinteria’s history. “Mr. Higgins is one of the most progressive citizens in the valley, and is the first and foremost in all matters looking to its permanent betterment,” stated an article published in a special edition of “The Summerland Advance Courier” from February 1900 entitled “Southern Santa Barbara County and its Resources.”
Gas mains were brought into the valley a few years afterwards, which gave to Carpinteria the two public utilities that have added so much to the comfort of the
Though his name and face are splashed all over our local past, Phineas Clark Higgins started his life in illinois and did not land on Carpinteria soil until he was 40 years old. after moving west to the tiny California town in 1882, Higgins purchased 108 acres between Carpinteria Creek and what is now Bailard Avenue and began farming beans and hay. Two years after his arrival, he made the first bean cutter in the valley, impressing locals with his inventiveness.
a new crop grabbed Higgins’ interest, and in 1891, he planted 15 acres in lemons. he lemons prospered in the local environment, and Higgins added eight more acres the following year and 18 more in 1894. s his lemon business blossomed, his need for irrigation grew as well. He developed water wells throughout his property, tapping into the water table and using 67,500 gallons per acre each six weeks. A 15 horsepower gas engine drove Higgins’ water pump, forcing the life-giving substance through a series of irrigation pipes that led to his lemon trees.
anitary District was organized in 1928 and in 1929 the system was established. The town now has as fine a sanitary system as will be found anywhere. o these districts has been added the pest control district by which the mosquito and other pests have been eliminated. so that all in all, the residents of Carpinteria have established all of those modern conveniences that are to be found in any of the incorporated areas of the nation, providing for the comfort of the residents as well as the numerous visitor who come here to enjoy “the World’s safest Beach.”
the success of Higgins’ lemon-growing operation caused him to outgrow the anta Barbara lemon packinghouse, so he constructed his own packing facility near the Carpinteria railroad station in 1898. Meanwhile, the savvy businessman was taking full advantage of the seams of asphaltum located on his property along the coast. the Higgins asphalt mine supplied santa Barbara County with material for many of its first paved roads.
To learn more about Carpinteria’s unique and interesting past, visit the Carpinteria Valley Museum of History, open Tuesday through Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. at 956 Maple Ave.
Higgins also devoted his energy to the construction of a massive house along the ld Coast Highway (now Carpinteria avenue). the house, an elaborate, three-story structure, was located in the field next to what is now Dump Road. Higgins was personally responsible for creating many of the ornate, carved wood embellishments found throughout the home.
Built in the late 1800s, the rockwell house on Carpinteria avenue is a piece of lo cal history that now appropriately houses angels antiques and its treasure trove of historic artifacts. the home was built to shelter the growing family of John and isabel rockwell, who ultimately had 16 children (though only 12 survived to adulthood). on feb. 21, 1914, John, a rural mail carrier, was killed in a massive rainstorm while delivering mail. His widow was forced to sell off most of the family’s land piece by piece, but she retained the home. isabel’s ill-fated second marriage didn’t last long, and she picked up her brood and relocated to fillmore for a few years. later, she returned to Carpinteria, moved back into the rockwell house and eventually married a younger man named Coy rhodes and lived with him in the home until her death in 1951. the house was sold a few years later to the Husted family, then to the Babcock family, who converted it into angels
Much of the Higgins property was eventually sold to il. By 1965, the empty Higgins house had slowly deteriorated; it had become a fire hazard and was becoming an eyesore. It was demolished by Standard Oil, but many of its finer elements were preserved by the Carpinteria Valley Historical society and incorporated into the construction of the history museum. a visit to the museum will reveal Higgins’ door frames, carved wooden trim, faucet hardware, display cases, phonograph,
MARCH 12, 2026
Carpinteria baseball has won its first four games of the year.
BY RYAN P. CRUZ
PHOTOS BY ROSANA SWING
Carpinteria has found much success on the baseball diamond in the early part of the 2026 season, with the Warriors winning four straight, including their last two home games in the last week against Santa Maria and Providence of Burbank.
The Warriors welcomed the Santa aria aints to o n Calder ood eld on March 4, where Carpinteria’s pitching corps and defense came through with a shutout.
The Warriors bats were active in this game, putting up four runs in the fourth inning and adding two more insurance runs in t e nal fra e to ta e t e in a nal score of .
Senior standout Dallas Bartholic start ed on the mound, earning his second win of the year after pitching a complete game effort and olding anta aria scoreless on just 83 pitches.
Bartholic was helped out by Carpin teria’s defense, with solid play from the in eld out eld and fro senior catc er ica it o ic ed off a anta a ria baserunner attempting to steal a base.
“Dallas set the tone on the mound,” said Carpinteria coach Pat Cooney. “He works quickly, and the ball is often in play so the defense is ready.”
On the offensive side, senior Noah orente ca e a a t o for t o at t e plate, scoring twice to give the Warriors momentum in both the fourth and sixth innings. Bartholic added two hits and an RBI, while senior Jonah Hernandez scored two runs and batted in two more on a single and a double.
On March 7, the Warriors played Prov ince of Burbank on another sunny day at Calderwood Field.
In this game, Providence managed to score on a defensive iscue in t e rst inning before Carpinteria got back into rhythm to come back and win by a score of . Carpinteria pitchers Hernandez and Martinez teamed up to throw a strong game, holding Providence scoreless after that early run. Hernandez earned the in it four no it innings and ve strikeouts. Martinez came in to hold on for the remainder of the game, with four strikeouts and no walks. n offense fres an ra den eal
Sam Medel connects on a bunt in Carpinteria’s win over Providence.
ade is resence no n crac ing off a dou le and scoring t ice off t o its.
Martinez added two hits and one run scored, while Bartholic kept up his early season success with an RBI triple through t e rig t eld ga .
Cooney said the team played with energy and managed to improve in the win over Providence.
“Beating a team that is better than we are on paper is rewarding,” Cooney said. “Obviously, most of the season is still in front of us but we are piecing together some good ballgames. The team concept is prevailing and we are getting contribu tions from all sorts of players.”
Car interia is no and t e ar riors ave outscored o onents t roug t e rst four ga es of t e ear.
Carpinteria will now prepare to open its league sc edule it a t o ga e series against ord off t is ee .
BY RYAN P. CRUZ
ROSANA SWING
Servando Campuzano has found success as part of a doubles duo with Ethan Almgren.
Warriors tennis rebounds with two wins
Car interia o s tennis suffered its rst loss of t e ear in a road atc against an arcos on arc ut t e arriors recovered it ac to ac ins in t eir ne t t o atc es over is o iego and C annel slands.
Car interia s tea ad a toug ti e against t e an arcos o als fro t e C annel eague. an arcos too control earl and eld on for a atc victor . e ne t da Car interia s s uad as read to get ac in t e in colu n it a non league atc at o e against is o iego.
e arriors and Cardinals attled t roug t e da it Car interia overco ing a slo start to co e ac and in t e atc a score of .
Car interia s dou les duo of ervando Ca u ano and t an Al gren ca e a a it a s ee ig lig ted consistent groundstro es and ig serves. e duo of iago l Aaidi and a den ord ol on t o of t eir t ree sets toget er ile a ran advar ic ed u t o tie rea er ins it t o different tea ates. d in ernande led t e a in singles it a t ree set s ee including ig ins of is o iego s to singles la ers. o n orrison rounded out singles it anot er in to add to t e arriors tall .
Car interia e t t e inning o entu in its ne t o e atc t e rst Citrus Coast eague atc of t e season against C annel slands on arc . e arriors found success in ot singles and dou les ta ing a stead lead and going on to in .
ernande and l Aaidi eac nis ed it t ree set s ee s in singles ile advar nis ed it t o ins in t o singles sets. e duo of Ca u ano and Al gren tea ed u for a s ee and artners orrison and a den ord ol on ot of t eir sets toget er. verall as ver a it o e la ed coac r ant said. e o s erfor ed ell and ad a lot ore oo to t eir groundstro es volle s and serves. eir re aration as a ig art of t at success.
Car interia is no overall and in league la as t e arriors re are to face uene e and ali u t e t o to tea s in t e Citrus Coast eague.
Car interia s o s and girls s i tea s ave found success earl in t e ear and in t e ast ee t e arriors s i ers s o ed t eir s ills it a in in a dual eet against ord off and a strong nis at t e aider ela s in uene e. e arriors ere do inant in a ead to ead eet against ord off on arc . Car interia s o s too t e in a co ined score of ile t e arriors girls too t e in .
Car interia s o cased its de t in t is eet it t e arriors entire tea turning in ne est ti es and to t ree nis es. enior co ca tain a e lers on ot t e and ard freest le races earn ing C ivision ostseason consideration ti es in eac race. enior orling too t o rst lace nis es it a C consideration ti e in t e ard utter .
e arriors o s on all t ree rela events along it individual ins fro C ris eed der a and tefano iccoletti.
e girls tea atc ed t at success it a s ee in all rela events and a s ee in t e individual and ard freest le s rints s eed s i er cott.
e girls also ad individual ins fro adison ee a el ugr ucia it and lari lac an.
o da s later on arc t e arriors traveled to uene e to ta e on t e eig t tea aider ela co etition.
Car interia dis la ed its s eed and tea or in t e rela onl co etition co ing a a it seven ins out of eig t varsit events. e arriors eventuall ca e in second lace overall it nard ta ing t e to s ot due to an advantage in t e oint total.
t s al a s fun to s i in rela onl events said Car interia coac on tsu i. it onl one rela tea of s i ers in t e ater at a ti e it gives ever one else t e c ance to c eer on t eir tea ates and reall uild t e tea s energ on t e dec .
Car interia s o s and girls trac and eld tea s eac ca e out on to in a co ined dou le eet against ot ali u and el ol at Car interia alle e orial tadiu on arc . e eet gave t e arriors at letes a c ance to co ete against t o different sc ools in one da . Car interia s o s tea ca e a a it a in against ali u and an in over el ol. e arriors girls nis ed it a in over ali u and a in over el ol.
Car interia s girls tea on of events on t e da . rinter ivian us ins too dou le ins in t e and eter races adance ardner on t e eter s rint along it ta ing art in ot of t e girls rela ins and a ueline uadian too ulti le ins it a ne ersonal record in t e eter event and a ne season est ti e in t e eter race. ong distance runner iana ia set a ne season est it a rst lace nis in t e eter race. e arriors girls too ins in ot t e urdles races it alle a an setting a ne ersonal record in t e eter urdles. n t e eld events erel Avalos too ins in ot t ro ing events ile ia ar a set a ne ersonal record in t e long u .
n t e o s side senior li ere on ot t e s ot ut and discus events it a ne ersonal record t ro in t e discus. oto on ot t e and eter races it a ne ersonal record in t e . ur goal as to eat ali u ecause t e are in our league said Car interia coac an at a . e acco lis ed our goal it ing colors. ot t e o s and girls are in CC dual eet action.
Car interia ill no re are for anot er league eet against C annel slands.
Car interia o s volle all it t e road to face league foe ali u on arc ere t e arriors ad a toug ti e against t e ig l touted ar s s uad. ali u too advantage earl inning t e rst set and going on to in t e second set efore securing t e s ee it a in in t e t ird set .
Car interia ad so e ig lig t erfor ances in t e loss. Alan a a nis ed it digs and seven ills ile Alari odrigue as a defensive force it digs. Cole o otto contri uted it four ills.
it t e loss t e arriors are no overall and in t e Citrus Coast eague. e ll ta e at e learned fro t is atc and carr it into t e rest of league la ne t ee as e continue to i rove and co ete said Car interia coac avian uralles.
Thursday, March 12
*Carpinteria Softball vs Del Sol, 3:30 p.m.
*Carpinteria Boys Volleyball vs Channel Islands, 5:30 p.m.
Friday, March 13
*Carpinteria Baseball Nordhoff, 3:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 14
Carpinteria Track Field at Thousand Oaks Invite, a.m.
*Carpinteria Baseball Santa Clara, 11 a.m.
Denotes Home Game
BY MARTIN FOLEY
Just before sunrise on Thursday, March 5, 19 men gathered near Linden Avenue’s concrete ping-pong table for a 45-minute workout.
F3, short for “Fitness, Fellowship, Faith,” is a peer-led outdoor fitness group for men. It was founded in North Carolina offers free or outs and no operates in more than 3,000 locations orld ide. rst ca e to t e region in 2022 at Santa Barbara City College, with Carpinteria’s group starting a few years later in January 2025.
Kip Bradley, one of the eldest participants during Thursday’s workout, led the charge to bring F3 to Carpinteria with the goal of helping men live healthier lives while building camaraderie and a sense of community.
Bradley lived in Santa Barbara County for 38 years and now lives in Fort Worth, visiting Carpinteria monthly. F3’s free workouts have allowed him to join groups wherever he travels, including in London while visiting his daughter.
Despite his experience with F3 across the country and abroad, Bradley believes that the Carpinteria location — which utilizes the outdoor exercise equipment near Carpinteria City Beach — might be the most scenic in the organization.
“F3 workouts are everywhere,” said radle re ecting on t e grou s idespread presence. “I must say I think Carpinteria’s location is the most beautiful site in F3 Nation.”
Before the local scenery reveals itself, participants meet promptly at 5:30 a.m. Many attendees arrive early to stretch, warm up or chat briefly before the workout begins, setting a positive and inclusive tone from the start.
nli e a t ical tness class t e grou has no paid instructor. Instead, each or out is led a different rotating e er so artici ants often nd t eselves exercising alongside someone they have just met. The military-style session cycles through burpees, lunges, squats, pushups, weighted carries and the fre-
quent in-between-set laugh.
On this particular morning, participants ranged in age from 17 to 65. Members emphasized that the group’s wide age range does not create any division, reinforcing the inclusive feel established earlier.
While traditional gyms can sometimes feel isolating for those seeking companions i t roug tness radle ointed out that F3’s structure encourages interpersonal connections and accountability, making early-morning wakeups feel worthwhile.
“I recently went on a ski trip with a friend I met from F3 for his 50th birthday,” Bradley said. “On a random Saturda at a coffee s o after a or out
Cecilia Lemus went two-for-three with a home run against Santa Ynez on March 6.
Car interia fell to after suffering t o losses t is ee against anta ne and Del Sol.
n arc t e arriors osted a o e ga e against anta ne ere Car interia ad so e success on offense efore suffering a loss a nal score of . Carpinteria’s senior captains Cecilia Lemus and Sophia Santana provided some ig lig ts for t e offense. e us ent t o for t ree it a o e run ile antana added a triple before stealing home and scoring with an exciting diving slide at the plate.
e arriors suffered anot er loss on arc in a ig scoring ga e against el Sol. In this loss, the Warriors scored more runs than any other game this year, but it asn t enoug as el ol s offense unleas ed t o do en runs to ta e t e in . Carpinteria softball is now 0-4 this year. The Warriors will get another opportunity to earn t eir rst in of t e ear it a re atc against el ol t is ee .
there are over a dozen of us catching up and checking in with each other. That is not something you get at a commercial gym. There is not that same sense of accountability.”
Motivated by their peers, some attendees made the workout more challenging by wearing weighted vests or adding repetitions. Others focused on simply getting a sweat in before starting their day while watching the sunrise along the Carpinteria coastline.
After the workout, the group gathers for what members call the “Circle of rust offering artici ants an oportunity to share what is going on in their personal lives. On this Thursday morning, conversations centered around family updates and the health struggles of loved ones.
“F3 is a magnet for really good quality men who care deeply, love sincerely and want to push each other,” Bradley said. “This is a safe space, and the perfect place to become a better leader and, in return, a better human.”
In addition to the group’s Tuesday
and Thursday morning meetings, members connect through a Slack channel to organize backpacking trips, recreational sports and other social gatherings. Bradley believes that facing physical challenges together makes members seek more time together outside of those early mornings.
“When you are struggling together, so et ing ust feels different e said. “Am I going to volunteer to carry a 100-pound bag? Heck no. But because someone next to me is doing it, I’m going to carry my share of the weight.”
As so e artici ants drove off to egin their day, a small group stayed behind to swim in the calm early-morning ocean water. While the longtime members deepened existing connections, Bradley shared the primary, straightforward goal for newcomers joining F3.
“We are only out here to get one percent better,” he said. “Just 1% is all we ask. No one is going to leave you behind, so we invite you to come out and struggle. We all started from zero.”
Carpinteria girls soccer had a magical season nis ing t e ear it t e rogra s rst ever Citrus Coast League Championship, and ending on an eight-game win streak before being knocked out in the second round of t e C la offs.
The Warriors soccer team was well represented in the All Citrus Coast League selections, with seniors Vivan Huskins and Charlotte Cooney being named as Defensive MVP and Goalie of t e ear res ectivel and ead coach Freddy Martinez earning the title of Coac of t e ear.
Carpinteria’s squad also had several players make the All League First Team, with senior Evelyn Lara, junior Kaydance Gardner and freshman Caroline Cooney all earning First Team honors.
Warriors junior Vicky Martinez and sophomores Callie Labistour, Michelle Cornejos and Emerson Hill all earned a spot on the All League Second Team. And three more Carpinteria players — seniors Logan Labistour and Lacey Zimmerman and fres an osel n ara all earned honorable mentions.
Carpinteria recently welcomed visitors from across California as the local chapter of California Women for Agriculture hosted the organization’s 2026 March Statewide Meeting from March 6–8.
The three-day gathering brought together members from throughout the state to connect, tour local agricultural sites and discuss issues affecting California agriculture. Activities included a welcome social, agricultural tours and lunch, an executive meeting and the statewide meeting session.
Organizers themed the event “Rooted in the Valley — From Mountain Farms to Coastal Fields,” highlighting Carpinteria’s unique agricultural landscape, which ranges from inland farms and greenhouses to coastal growing areas.
Participants also had the opportunity to explore the Carpinteria Valley and connect with fellow advocates for the agricultural industry while celebrating the 50th anniversary of California Women for Agriculture.
ON
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