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AUG. 27-SEPT.3, 2026

VOL. 40 NO. 2075

HAPPY oBIRTHDAY t us

Come Celebrate Our 40th Anniversary at Saturday’s INDY40 Fest

INDY MEMORIES•NEWS•ARTS•FOOD•COMMUNITY

Sustainable Sustainable Heart Heart Sustainable Heart Sustainable Heart ~ Transformational Life ~ Transformational Life Counseling Counseling ~ ~

Transformational Life Life Counseling ~~~~Transformational Life Counseling Counseling~~~~ Transformational Transformational Life Counseling Relationships • Occupation and Career • Meditation Relationships Relationships ••• Occupation Occupation and and Career Career ••• Meditation Meditation Relationships Occupation and Career Relationships • Occupation and Career • Meditation Meditation Relationships Occupation and Career Grief and Loss • Major Life Transitions ••Meditation Anxiety Grief and Loss •• Major Life Transitions Grief and Loss Major Life Transitions •• Anxiety Anxiety Grief and Loss • Major Life Transitions Anxiety Major Life Transitions Anxiety Grief and Loss Grief and Loss • Major Life Transitions • Anxiety Spiritual Issues •• Communication •• Conflict Spiritual Issues Communication Conflict Spiritual Issues • Communication • Conflict Spiritual IssuesIssues • Communication Dream Work Conflict Spiritual • Conflict Spiritual Issues • Communication • Conflict Communication

Michael H Kreitsek, MA

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AUGUST 27, 2026 INDEPENDENT.COM

More than 50 live events. One extraordinary season.

2026-2027

Single Tickets on Sale Now! The Joffrey Ballet, Feb 27 & 28

Rosanne Cash with John Leventhal, Jan 27

John McEnroe, May 7

In Conversation with Pico Iyer

GALLIM, Mar 11

Anne Applebaum, Jan 31

Bernadette Peters, Oct 15

José González, Sep 26

Stanley Clarke & Hiromi, Mar 5

Yuja Wang, piano, Apr 20

Circa, Duck Pond, Oct 18

Margaret Atwood, Apr 23

In Conversation with Pico Iyer

Hilary Hahn, Dec 2

Scott Galloway, Sep 25 Notes on Being a Man

View the full 2026-2027 lineup at ArtsAndLectures.UCSB.edu INDEPENDENT.COM AUGUST 27, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

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AUGUST 27, 2026 INDEPENDENT.COM

Print subscriptions are available, paid in advance, for $120 per year. Send subscription requests with name and address to subscriptions@independent.com. The contents of the Independent are copyrighted 2026 by the Santa Barbara Independent, Inc. No part may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. A stamped, self-addressed envelope must accompany all submissions expected to be returned. The Independent is available on the internet at independent.com. Press run of the Independent is 25,000 copies. Audited certification of circulation is available on request. The Independent is a legal adjudicated newspaper — court decree no. 157386. ISSN 2834-3174 (Print) ISSN 2834-3204 (Online) Contact information: 223 E. De la Guerra St., Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 PHONE (805) 965-5205; FAX (805) 965-5518 EMAIL news@independent.com, letters@independent.com, advertising@independent.com Staff email addresses can be found at independent.com/about-us

Richelle’s Indy Origin and Highlights

TABLE of CONTENTS

Volume 40 #2075, Aug. 27-Sept. 3, 2026

COVER STORY

INGRID BOSTROM

Editor in Chief Marianne Partridge Publisher Brandi Rivera Executive Editor Nick Welsh Senior Editor Tyler Hayden Senior Writer Matt Kettmann News Editor Jackson Friedman Opinions Editor Jean Yamamura Arts and Culture Editor Leslie Dinaberg Calendar Editor Terry Ortega Calendar Assistant Olivia Ison News Reporters Ryan P. Cruz, Callie Fausey, Elaine Sanders Senior Arts Writer Josef Woodard Mickey Flacks Fund Fellow Christina McDermott Photographer Ingrid Bostrom Assistant Editor Tiana Molony Copy Chief Tessa Reeg Copy Editors Evan Ragland, Nathan Vived Sports Editor Victor Bryant Web Content Manager Don Brubaker Social Media Manager Maya Johnson Food Writer George Yatchisin Travel Writers Macduff Everton, Mary Heebner Art Director Xavier Pereyra Associate Production Manager Bianca Castro Graphic Designers Leah Brewer, Diego Melgoza, Haley Snyder Columnists Dennis Allen, Gail Arnold, Sara Caputo, Christine S. Cowles, Laura Gransberry, Betsy J. Green, Austin Lampson, Melinda Palacio, Cheri Rae, Hugh Ranson, Amy Ramos, Lorissa Rinehart, Starshine Roshell Contributors Rob Brezsny, Jim Buckley, Cynthia Carbone Ward, Ben Ciccati, Cheryl Crabtree, John Dickson, Roger Durling, Chuck Graham, Keith Hamm, Rebecca Horrigan, Gareth Kelly, Kevin McKiernan, Carl Perry, David Starkey, Ethan Stewart, Brian Tanguay, Tom Tomorrow, Jatila Van der Veen, Isabelle Walker, Maggie Yates, John Zant Director of Advertising Sarah Sinclair Marketing and Events Manager Richelle Boyd Advertising Representatives Suzanne Cloutier, Bryce Eller, Ariana Hugo, Tonea Songer, Scott Maio Digital Marketing Specialist Graham Brown Business Operations and Accounting Manager Erin Lynch Office Manager/Legal Advertising Tanya Spears Guiliacci Distribution Gregory Hall Interns Ella Bailey, Natalie MacFarlane, Danielle Verlardi Columnist Emeritus Barney Brantingham Photography Editor Emeritus Paul Wellman Founding Staff Emeriti George Delmerico, Richard Evans, Camille Cimini Fruin, Laszlo Hodosy, Scott Kaufman Honorary Consigliere Gary J. Hill Indy Kids Bella and Max Brown; Elijah Lee, Amaya Nicole, and William Gene Bryant; Henry and John Poett Campbell; Emilia Imojean Friedman; Rowan Gould; Finley James Hayden; Ivy Danielle Ireland; Madeline Rose and Mason Carrington Kettmann

Happy Birthday to Us!

Come Celebrate Our 40th Anniversary at Saturday’s INDY40 Fest by Indy Staff

FEATURE

Marketing & Events Manager Richelle Boyd, left, EJI Event Co. owner Ellyette Iverson, and Santa Barbara Independent Publisher Brandi Rivera

Dianne Vapnek, Dancing Queen by Ninette Paloma

NEWS..................................................... 7 OPINIONS..........................................12

Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 An Unruly Woman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

OBITUARIES.....................................15 In Memoriam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

THE WEEK.........................................31 ARTS LIFE .........................................35 LIVING ................................................. 41 FOOD & DRINK............................ 45 Restaurant Guy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

ASTROLOGY ..................................49 CLASSIFIEDS................................. 50

June 10 & 11

ON THE COVER: Illustration by Tony Diaz

In addition to serving as Marketing & Events Manager, Richelle Boyd also puts together this spotlight section in the table of contents each week. Here’s her Indy origin story. “I started out my journey at the Independent as an intern working in the newsroom under our superb Jean Yamamura. I loved the environment of the Indy, and I liked the kooky, determined staffers even better. So, when I found out that my new job—working on all the marketing for the Independent, coordinating food weeks, and managing event logistics, among many other things—was also going to include picking someone on staff or in our community to highlight each week, I was excited. It’s a slightly daunting task, trying to find something fresh each and every week, but I’ve always enjoyed getting to know my co-workers, and it was a great chance for me, a Santa Barbara transplant, to get to know all the people and happenings in our community. And one of my first-ever highlights for the paper was our CNPA Journalism awards, which have steadily become a highlight of my work over the past three years. I look forward to all the community stories and great people I’ll get to meet and write about in the years to come,” Boyd said. Head to independent.com/about-the-indy to read Richelle’s full origin story and learn more about how this weekly highlight comes to be.

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6 THE INDEPENDENT

AUGUST 27, 2026 INDEPENDENT.COM

AUG. 20-27, 2026

NEWS of the WEEK

by RYAN P. CRUZ, CALLIE FAUSEY, JACKSON FRIEDMAN, TYLER HAYDEN, CHRISTINA McDERMOTT, ELAINE SANDERS, NICK WELSH, and JEAN YAMAMURA

NEWS BRIEFS

CITY

S.B. Ends Flock Contract

COUNTY

Almost all of the public commenters agreed, thanking the city for ending its contract with Flock but asking for more caution before signing a contract with a new company. “I cannot understand why the city is in such a rush to repeat the same mistake you made with Flock,” said Larry Behrendt of Indivisible Santa Barbara. “Thank you, to the city, for getting rid of Flock. Don’t compound that mistake.” Primitiva Hernandez, executive director of 805 UndocuFund, pointed out that Tuesday’s meeting was held in the middle of the workday, and said the fact that commenters at the council hearing were limited to one-minute remarks prevented any sort of meaningful discussion. A Flock camera on San Pascual Street “We are asking for time,” Hernandez said. “Time so we don’t make the same said she has seen the public become more mistake that we did by implementing Flock. worried as the technology has been misused We are also asking for a community forum, across the country. She believed the city police where we will have the opportunity to share department was operating with caution, but some slides and research, because one minute nationwide, similar camera systems have misis not enough.” identified suspects, been vulnerable to data Councilmember Meagan Harmon, who breaches, or allowed for abusive partners to raised privacy concerns when the city first stalk their victims. drafted its automated camera policy in 2020, CONT’D ON PAGE 8

First Steps to Solving Sheriff OT Crisis?

by Tyler Hayden limmers of hope for reducing overtime costs at the Santa Barbara County Sheriff ’s Office, a chronic problem that has ballooned into the county’s biggest budget controversy, were offered Tuesday at the Board of Supervisors meeting. Management Analyst Nicole Parmelee presented the county’s official response to a recent Grand Jury report that faulted the Sheriff ’s Office for regularly exceeding its overtime allowance. This year, the department is projected to spend about $19 million on overtime — roughly $9 million more than projected — and, as a whole, now consumes approximately 33 percent of the county’s General Fund, compared with 24 percent just two years prior. Parmelee highlighted a new labor agreement between the county and the Deputy Sheriff ’s Association union that is expected to help control costs. The new contract, she

I N G R I D B O S T R O M F I L E P H OTO

by Ryan P. Cruz ollowing a wave of public pushback, the city of Santa Barbara will be reconsidering its policy on automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras, opening up a wider public discussion about the future of these types of surveillance systems as the city’s contract with the controversial tech company Flock Safety officially came to an end on August 23. On Tuesday, City Council held a hearing to deliberate whether the city should replace the Flock cameras with cameras provided by Verkada, a company with a closed-circuit system that is said to prevent any potential datasharing with outside agencies. City Council originally asked for the contract change last year, after community members expressed concerns that Flock allowed federal agencies to access data for immigration enforcement. After a lengthy discussion, during which nearly 30 community members spoke against the mass surveillance, City Council changed direction, delaying the new contract until staff reviews the entire automated camera policy. This would mean that the city would not have any automated cameras in the interim period, while the city amends its policy to address privacy concerns and the misuse of automated camera technology.

MARCY WINOGRAD

City Will Delay Signing Contract with New Company

explained, changes the calculus so that paid sick leave and comp time can no longer count as overtime hours. It also caps individual employees at 1,300 overtime hours per year; limits annual comp-time accrual to 120 hours; requires period cash-outs of comp-time balances; and clarifies when employees can bill for drive time. Parmelee said the county agreed with the Grand Jury that its current Sheriff Bill Brown payroll system makes it difficult to adequately track and analyze overtime. A new system, called Workday, amount of overtime is unavoidable because is expected to go online by spring 2027. In the county must maintain minimum staffing the meantime, Parmelee said, the Sheriff ’s levels for jail and patrol operations. He also Office is encouraged to better categorize the made the counterintuitive point that overtime can sometimes be cheaper than hirreasons its employees work extra hours. Sheriff Bill Brown agreed progress was ing additional full-time employees because being made but emphasized the problem salaries plus benefits can exceed the cost of was not yet solved. He argued that a certain filling staffing gaps through extra hours. n

For the latest news and longer versions of many of these stories, visit independent.com/news.

CARSON SHEVITZ

PUBLIC SAFETY

The U.S. Coast Guard rescued two kayakers from open water around Anacapa Island on 8/14, the Coast Guard said in a press release on 8/19. After their 14-foot yellow kayak overturned approximately a half-mile off Arch Rock, the unnamed kayakers called the Los Angeles– Long Beach sector of the Coast Guard at 11:17 p.m. for help. A Jayhawk helicopter crew from the Coast Guard’s Ventura air station arrived on scene at midnight, hoisting the kayakers from the water and transporting them to Oxnard Airport and, from there, Ventura County emergency medical services. The pair were reported to be in stable condition, the Coast Guard said. Rep. Salud Carbajal secured a $236,375 federal grant to help the S.B. County Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) and its associated Child Advocacy Center expand into a new facility in the City of Santa Barbara. Called the SART Cottage Relocation Project, the new facility site will be provided by Cottage Health. It will include “wraparound services” for survivors with advanced forensic and recording technology to provide the “next generation” of trauma-informed care, said Megan Rheinschild, Victim-Witness Assistance Program Director for the DA’s Office, at a press conference on 8/21. The funding comes through Carbajal’s 2026 government funding bill for projects countywide.

HEALTH The cases of measles in S.B. and Ventura counties that emerged in the space of a week were only two of many cases resulting from a mid-July international airline flight that, for privacy reasons, remains shrouded as to date and origin. In S.B. alone, contact tracers identified more than 150 people who might have been exposed by a single positive case resulting from that flight, said Ann Carlisle, director of Disease Control and Prevention for County Public Health. For privacy reasons, she could not reveal how many of the 150 people were vaccinated or previously exposed, nor could she say how many, if any, might be in quarantine. People who were unvaccinated or unsure of their vaccination history did go into quarantine, however.

BUSINESS Promising lower costs, higher speeds, and the L.A. Dodgers, Charter Communications CEO Chris Winfrey announced on 8/20 the finalization of a long-pending acquisition of Cox Communications, Santa Barbara’s sole cable provider, for a reported $34.5 billion. The deal affects six million Cox customers, who Winfrey said would initially see no differences in their billing. However, within 18 months, they would gain entirely U.S.-based customer service. CONT’D ON PAGE 9

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AUG. 20-27, 2026

S.B. ENDS FLOCK CONTRACT “Privacy concerns are not going away, they continue to grow,” Councilmember Harmon said. “And it’s important that we continue to have iterative conversations about our use of technology in Santa Barbara.” Councilmember Wendy Santamaria agreed: “Just because we’re not required to have a public hearing doesn’t mean we shouldn’t,” she said. “I think it’s imperative if we are prioritizing the rebuilding and strengthening of the public’s trust with the city.” She also wanted to be clear that the council was not accusing local law enforcement of sharing any data. “The fact that the data can be leaked, can be hacked, can be misused—not that it is being misused—but the fact that the possibility is there, is enough to erode the public’s trust in us,” Santamaria said. Police Chief Kelly Gordon confirmed that no outside agency ever accessed collected city information. Councilmember Kristen Sneddon agreed: “I don’t think we could have seen how far this was going to go. When we

CONT’D FROM P.7

adopted this policy, it was a different world.” Councilmember Eric Friedman and Mike Jordan both supported a more robust public discussion but pointed to the instances where the current camera systems led to the apprehension of violent criminals. According to the Santa Barbara Police Department, the cameras have been used to locate individuals suspected of child exploitation, human trafficking, distribution of narcotics, and, in one incident, a suspect that had fled the scene of a stabbing. Without the cameras, Chief Gordon warned, “we would not have the same ability to prevent and make arrests when it comes to human trafficking. That is the reality. I understand the privacy concerns …[but] it is a balance between maintaining privacy and maintaining community public safety.” Council took no vote, but directed staff to return for an official vote to direct the city administrator to delay a new contract with Verkada. Council would open up a public comment period on that date, and return to review public input by the end of the year. n

COUNTY

S.B. Green-Lights Film Commissioner

O A Night of Poetry Serena Chopra A Catalog of Future Mercies

We’re hosting writer and filmmaker Serena Chopra for a discussion of her poetry book A Catalog of Future Mercies. Joining the poet in conversation will be local writer Monica Mody. In this memoir-in-poems, Chopra explores the complexities of mercy in an immigrant family haunted by generational violence. This book reimagines mercy as radical embodied witnessing, a form of resilience that refuses the tyranny of forgetting.

Sun, Aug 30, 4 PM 3321 State St Scan the QR code to see more event info on our website.

Happy 40th to the award-winning SB Independent! 8

THE INDEPENDENT

AUGUST 27, 2026

INDEPENDENT.COM

CO U R T E S Y

nce upon a time, Santa Barbara had a film commission as a part of the Visitors Bureau, which brought 115 productions to the county in 2017-18 with an estimated downstream spend of about $13.2 million. Santa Barbara County is ready to bring that much-needed revenue stream back, approving a new contractor during Tuesday’s administrative hearing at the Board of Supervisors. On Tuesday, the supervisors approved $150,000 toward an individual or firm to pull together the elements that would encourage filming in the area. Even more Filming for the opening episode of Succession’s Season 4 important than a website of locations, took place at Villa Solana in Montecito in 2023. contacts, and area resources would be a public database of the 38 jurisdictions bed taxes, and hotel, transportation, and a production might run across. These equipment rental income, they create include not only Santa Barbara County enduring benefits to the area. The perenand its eight cities, but potentially com- nial example is the film Sideways, which munity service districts, State Parks, Cal- not only featured the county’s grape-growtrans, the Coastal Commission, Army ing acreage but raised the profile of the Corps, Forest Service, UC Santa Barbara, region’s wine internationally. “For Santa Barbara, film exposure helps and many others. “Each maintains separate permitting showcase the region’s iconic beauty and requirements, timelines, fee schedules, and lifestyle to audiences around the world, points of contact,” the staff report notes, creating lasting tourism value beyond and no consolidated record exists at the the production itself,” said Kathy Janegamoment. Dykes, who leads Visit Santa Barbara, the The Visitors Bureau’s full-time film successor to the Tourism Bureau. “We saw commissioner position ended in 2019, but these benefits after films like Sideways and with photogenic Santa Barbara less than It’s Complicated were filmed here,” she 100 miles from Hollywood, film, TV, and recalled. commercials have continued to find locaCounty finances are squeaky tight, and tions here. Filming for the opening epi- the new contractor position is currently sode of Succession’s Season 4 took place at budgeted for one year only, though “a little Villa Solana in Montecito in 2023 and the buzz” is already being heard about it, said Best Picture Oscar winner One Battle After Jesús Armas, the county’s director of ComAnother shot scenes at Lompoc’s Mission munity Services. Armas said the Request for Proposal bid process will begin in about de la Purisima in 2025. Productions not only bring about a month and take about that long to be $50,000 per day in local hiring, sales and finalized. —Jean Yamamura

BRIEFS

NEWS of the WEEK CONT’D CONT’D FROM P.7

The City of Santa Barbara is now the only defendant in a federal lawsuit filed by the developers proposing an eightstory apartment building behind Santa Barbara’s Mission. On June 20, the Mission LLC filed an amended complaint over a state law that de-exempts their proposed housing project from environmental review. Judge Hernan D. Vera has previously ruled the Mission LLC’s case was unripe, and violated sovereign immunity laws, but allowed the developers to modify their complaint.

BUSINESS Hayes Commercial Group reports that Google purchased an 83,356-square-foot campus spanning 147 and 153 Castilian Drive for $32.5 million, bringing the tech giant’s current footprint in Goleta to approximately 300,000 square feet. The two-building property sits on roughly five acres at the entrance to Santa Barbara Research Park. Less than a mile from the newly acquired property, Google also leases space at 6868 Cortona Drive and operates a Quantum AI lab at 301 Mentor Drive—both locations are connected to Google’s work with UCSB on quantum computing research, according to Commercial Property Executive, a media outlet covering the U.S. commercial real estate industry.

COUNTY

CO U R T E S Y S A N TA B A R B A R A P O L I C E D E PA R T M E N T

COURTS & CRIME

S.B. police released new details and a photo of the alleged bank robber who reportedly threatened employees and stole cash from Montecito’s Coast Village Road Bank of America at around 3 p.m. on 8/19. The suspect is still on the loose, and police are asking for the public’s help in finding him. He was last seen fleeing by bicycle, westbound on Coast Village Road. Based on surveillance footage, a middle-aged white man wearing a black medical mask and dark-colored baseball cap and jacket entered the bank brandishing what appeared to be a weapon and demanding money. Detectives later determined that the man was not wielding a weapon, but instead a piece of metal configured to look like one. Police ask anyone with information about the suspect or incident to call (805) 897-2327 or leave an anonymous tip at (805) 897-2427. At just before 6 p.m. on 8/20, S.B. Police responded to a reported robbery at men’s clothing and sneaker shop 805 University in Paseo Nuevo mall. Two men, whom police describe as Hispanic men in their early twenties, entered the store and attempted to steal merchandise, according to police. When an employee intervened to stop the robbers, one of the men allegedly pushed the employee and punched him in the face, and both suspects fled the scene. Upon arrival, officers searched for the suspects but were unable to locate them. Police ask anyone with information about the suspects or incident to call (805) 897-2335. At about 6:30 p.m. on 8/19, SBPD received a medical 9-1-1 call reporting an unresponsive man in the driver’s seat of a running vehicle on the 1100 block of San Pascual Street. Officers arrived at the scene to find Anthony Lopez, 41, who promptly fled his vehicle on foot after being awoken by police. After jumping over fences and entering multiple private properties, officers were able to apprehend Lopez in the creek bed by Bohnett Park. According to the officers on scene, Lopez appeared to be impaired, and officers arrested him and booked him into County Jail on a suspected drug DUI and for resisting arrest.

Speaking of the tough times that face Santa Barbara County as well as the joys of seeing the results of their work, Jana Petersen was welcomed by board chair Bob Nelson during Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting, after taking her seat at the head of county government on 8/20. The county’s new chief executive officer is the former county administrator of Colorado’s Boulder County and arrives with experience of emergency disasters and fiscal challenges. At a salary of $380,000, Petersen fills the shoes of Mona Miyasato, who left the county to sustained applause from supervisors and staffers last week. In a 3-2 vote, the Board of Supervisors voted on 8/25 to forgive nearly $66,000 of transient occupancy tax and penalties for Dare 2 Dream Farm in Lompoc. The small farm hosts a farmstay to supplement its income. Owners Jeremy and Megan Raff said the farm did not consistently pay while the county finalized its law outlining how farmstays would be taxed. The Raffs appealed the tax decision on the basis of financial hardship, saying the back taxes and penalties would exceed the farm’s three-year income by more than $80,000. The free community programs the farm provides, the Raffs said, would have to be cut first.

ENVIRONMENT

Policymakers, marine researchers, venture capitalists and community members announced the launch of Santa Barbara’s Ocean Summit on 8/22 outside of the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. The summit, which will take place 12/9-12/11, will include panels, a keynote, and collaborative sessions and aims to bring different groups together to discuss and make plans for ocean stewardship. The California Legislative Central Coast Caucus, including State Assemblymember Gregg Hart, and the nonprofit Sea Forward Fund, headed by Laura Francis, are leading the event. On 8/18, the U.S. Department of Agriculture proposed entirely rescinding the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which protects 59 million acres of National Forest land from logging and roadbuilding—including 635,000 remote acres in Los Padres National Forest. More than 99 percent of public comments submitted during the initial process to rescind the Roadless Rule opposed the administration’s efforts, according to an analysis by the Center for Western Priorities. Another public comment period on the proposed rule change and its environmental impact statement is now open until 9/21 at regulations.gov. California’s Ocean Protection Council has recommended the approval of new ocean conservation proposals to the California Fish and Game Commission, including the creation of a new Marine Protected Area (MPA) off the coast of Carpinteria. Those same proposals were recommended for denial by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) earlier on in the process. But the California Fish and Game Commission has the final say and will hold hearings on 10/15 and 10/16, during which it will consider both agencies’ recommendations before voting on the 15 different MPA proposals that suggest either strengthening or weakening the state’s MPA network. n

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AUGUST 27, 2026

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Trump White House Trumps State in Sable Fight Federal Judge Rules Oil Company Can Keep Pumping but Must Pay $1.5M for Violating Consent Decree

by Nick Welsh ederal Judge Steven Wilson declared the Trump administration the winner of what’s been a protracted state’s rights battle over Sable Offshore’s right to begin production in Santa Barbara County and to pump oil through pipelines that 10 years ago sprang a 142,000-gallon leak along the Gaviota Coast. Specifically, Judge Wilson ruled that the Trump administration’s invocation of the Defense Production Act in December 2025 and the accompanying order that Sable Offshore begin production took legal precedence over a 2020 Court Order giving the State of California sole and exclusive authority to determine whether 129 miles of Sable’s corrosion-susceptible pipeline had been rendered safe to transport oil. Wilson also rejected arguments made by California Attorney General Rob Bonta that the Trump administration had not asserted facts sufficient to justify the deployment of the Defense Production Act. Likewise, Judge Wilson cited that law is concluding the State Parks Department lacked the power to deny Sable a four-mile easement through Gaviota State Park necessary for pipeline repairs. That easement expired in 2016. Lastly—and perhaps most critically—the judge cited the Defense Production Act as the basis for ruling that the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) would be vested authority and responsibility for enforcing the terms of the 2020 consent decree instead of the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Sparking this jurisdictional showdown, the State Fire Marshal rejected Sable’s application to restart the pipeline in October 2025, asserting that Sable had failed to complete all the necessary pipeline repairs required. Because the pipeline is inherently prone to corrosion, past corrosion-control efforts had failed. In response, the Fire Marshal had insisted upon a level of safeguards that Sable rebelled against. Sable claimed the Fire Marshal had changed the rules and moved the goalposts when the company was under intense time deadlines to pay its chief creditor $750 mil-

lion. The contested rules would have effectively required Sable to have repaired all stretches of pipeline with corrosion levels of 30 percent or more; Sable claims to have repaired all pipeline anomalies with corrosion levels of 40 percent or more. That’s when Sable took its case to the federal government and the Trump White House. Late last December, PHMSA unilaterally announced it was taking jurisdiction over the pipeline away from the State Fire Marshal and then in short order issued Sable an emergency start-up permit and then a non-emergency start-up permit. It’s worth noting that in 2016, in the immediate wake of the Refugio Oil Spill, PHMSA signed a document renouncing all authority over the pipeline and ceding it to the Office of the State Fire Marshal. In 2020, PHMSA signed the court-ordered consent decree also imbuing the Office of the State Fire Marshal with ultimate authority for start-up approval and enforcement. Judge Wilson stressed in his ruling that all the safety conditions imposed by that consent decree still stand, just that the PHMSA will now be charged with enforcing them and not the Fire Marshal. State officials have long argued that it should take more than merely asserting a national security emergency to invoke the Defense Production Act, noting that the United States produces more oil and gas than any nation in the world. Likewise, they have argued that there’s no evidence that Sable’s oil is being designated for any of the 32 military installations along the Pacific Coast, a geographical region that relies on foreign oil imports for 70 percent of its supply. Attorney General Bonta has indicated he fully intends to appeal the ruling to the federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal. Judge Wilson fined Sable Offshore $1.45 million for violating the consent decree by pumping oil through the contested pipelines between March 14 and December 2025, when the Defense Production Act was invoked. The Defense Production Act does not protect Sable with a retroactive shield. “In all, Sable has violated the express provisions of the consent decree, without justification,” Judge Wilson wrote. n

EDUCATION

Kristin Hempy’s history classroom on the first day of school

NEWS of the WEEK CONT’D support, especially if a student does not have access to a tutor, Durling said. She herself used YouTube videos to help her study for AP exams. “But I get it,” she added. Flagiello said that being able to bring their own laptops to school helped many students. “A lot of kids last year were able to contact their own college counselors in the middle of their work and figure everything out, which you cannot do on your iPad,” she said. But from the teachers’ and administrators’ perspectives, the new tech policies are welcome. “The YouTube ban is new for everybody, but anything that can reduce distractions for kids, I’m in favor of,” said SBHS Principal Ed Gomez. For English and AVID teacher Miranda Jue, trading a keyboard for paper and pencil helps students refine their motor skills, forces them to slow down and process their thoughts while writing, and combats AI use — making learning more intentional, she said. Students seem excited to have tactile paper to write on, she said. There is also a college-preparation aspect, as universities begin to scale back on digital assignments, she noted. Mental health is one of the main reasons for the district’s new tech restrictions, going hand in hand with other initiatives aimed at students’ overall well-being. That focus continues down the hallway from Jue’s room to the school’s reimagined Wellness Center—which was relocated and expanded —where students can stop, recharge, destress, and speak to someone about what may be troubling them. For students like Durling, who take advanced classes on top of sports and college prep, it can be difficult to juggle wanted her classroom to be less tech-centered and started everything. The Wellness Center exists to take some of the moving toward a less tech-heavy curriculum on her own, weight off students’ shoulders and remind them that they before the new policies. are not alone. She said she’s noticed that tech with intent policies have “I think it’s important because kids can’t perform to their benefitted students’ attention spans and interpersonal skills, highest capability if they have other things going on in their as in “actually listening, being able to respond to peers and mind,” said Wellness Coordinator Natalia Valladares. “This articulate what you’re thinking.” gives them the outlet to come in, pause, take a break, recharge, and then head In Kareem Battle’s AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) back to class.” classroom, where he has taught for 27 Elsewhere on campus, other spaces foster belonging. Principal Gomez, for years, he hopes students feel comfortable and treat the space like a second whom Wednesday was his 54th first day home. He acknowledges the balance of school and his second year as princibetween growth and struggle and seeks pal, said student connection on campus to highlight students’ greatness, even is vital. The school’s various academies, if they do not realize it yet. He said athletics, and other programs help make that educators have a responsibility to that happen. Together, these programs are like schools within the school, he implement cultures of care at school. said. “Too often we blame kids, but they don’t know — there’s so much ignoDiversity is also being celebrated: The rance,” he said. “We need to take the school recently began giving students time to go, ‘Okay, look, here’s how we a “seal of biliteracy” on their diplomas care. Here’s how it’s supposed to be. if they demonstrate proficiency in two Here’s how you engage with people.’ We or more languages, and the new Transcan’t get mad at them for not knowing.” lation and Interpretation career pathHe said he tries to lead by examway — the only one of its kind in the ple, especially as one of the few Black state — produced its first graduating educators in Santa Barbara. He said class last year. he wants to counteract any students’ S.B. Junior High Principal Valarie Labrentz Meanwhile, Gomez said campus assumptions that they may have to look shows off the cell phone pouches the school safety protocols have been in place for a certain way to be great. potential campus disruptions as ICE distributes for its “off and away” policy. During the school’s tour, Battle tactics have caused fear and discomfort greeted 8th-grader Bryson Tannis with for families across the city. It all comes back to that Culture of Care. As SBUSD warmth and familiarity. Tannis, the school’s ASB president and a student in Battle’s AVID classroom, said he is looking schools work to raise students’ test scores and improve forward to the school year—but he slightly disagrees with academic performance, the kids themselves do not take a backseat. the district’s new tech policies. Gomez touched on how many schools across the dis“I think it’s an okay idea,” he said, “but I feel like I’ve been hearing a lot of concern for if there’s an emergency,” specifi- trict are focusing on students’ academics. Math and literacy cally about how parents may not be able to immediately get scores are rising for the second consecutive year, he said, narrowing the gap between the highest- and lowest-achieving a hold of their child in case of an emergency. At Santa Barbara High School, students feel the same students. way. The district just banned YouTube at all high schools, “We’re seeing growth—we’re not where we want to be, and juniors Jacqueline Durling and Beya Flagiello do not but we’re focused on progress and not perfection, and we like the change. have steady progress,” he said. “We just keep building on the YouTube has helpful educational videos that provide extra progress we’ve made.” n

Pencils and Peace of Mind

S.B. Unified’s School Year Starts with Step Back from Screens, Embrace of ‘Culture of Care’

Story and Photos by Callie Fausey tudents shuffle through hallways with packed backpacks, teachers get to know new pupils, and school administrators navigate new policies. It’s Wednesday, August 19, the first day of school for the Santa Barbara Unified School District, and some big changes are still being ironed out at the junior highs and high schools. In Santa Barbara Junior High’s (SBJH) historic hallways, new principal Valarie Labrentz is focusing on behavior systems, emphasizing self-awareness among students. During a tour of the school on Wednesday, she used the words “Culture of Care,” referring to the district’s mental health initiatives and its “whole child” approach to education. Part of that is reconciling and repairing past harm in the district — including racial incidents reported at both the junior highs and high schools over the past few years — and pivoting to a “tech with intent” approach to device use in the classroom. Labrentz, who stepped into the role on July 1 after moving to the district from Bakersfield with her family, said that SBJH is solidifying the “Off and Away All Day” policy for students’ personal devices this year. Parents and teachers in the district have repeatedly called out the harm from over-reliance on technology in learning and the seemingly ubiquitous presence of school-issued devices in their students’ lives. Many point to the negative effects of social media on a child’s mental health and data showing that when tech use in schools goes up, test scores go down. The district has been working with school communities to curb this. Tech can create a lot of “noise,” Labrentz said, distracting students and taking away from the social aspects of learning. Students have also proven tech-savvy enough to circumvent device security at school and access prohibited platforms, and the district is working on this as well. So, no personal devices. No free iPad time for students. Devices will not be used as rewards. Access to YouTube has been downgraded to only teacher-approved and provided videos. And they are increasingly moving back to pencil and paper, monitoring and regulating AI usage, and being intentional about digital learning overall, Labrentz said. In Marilyn Garza’s 8th-grade science class, she is working to “bring kids back to the curiosity of the world around them” she said. Tech with intent plays an important role. Now in her 32nd year of teaching, Garza recognized that she

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OPINIONS “VOTER QUESTIONS MAIL-IN BALLOT LOYALTY” BY MILT PRIGGEE, WEAREGET TINGSCREWED.ORG

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AUGUST 27, 2026

s a native son of Santa Barbara, it is disheartening to see Latino and Hispanic culture repeatedly used for commercial celebration while its deeper history and ongoing struggles receive little recognition. Each year, Old Spanish Days Fiesta returns, complete with a Grand Marshal often drawn from the city’s civic or economic elite. While Fiesta acknowledges some of Santa Barbara’s cultural heritage, is it enough? I was raised on the Lower Eastside, near the Santa Barbara Bowl. Milpas Street has long been the heart of the city’s Mexican community. During the day, luxury cars — Teslas, Mercedes-Benzes, and BMWs — move through the neighborhood. At night, however, taco trucks and stands come alive, serving the workingclass families who clean our offices, care for our children, maintain our hotels, landscape our properties, and build our homes. These largely Mexican and immigrant workers are often invisible until their labor is needed. Undocumented immigrants, meanwhile, remain marginalized by decades of anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies that encourage racial profiling. Yet Mexicans and Mexican Americans have deep historical roots here; California and Santa Barbara were once part of Mexico. My own paternal grandfather migrated north with his family, eventually settling in Colorado. During the Great Depression, Mexican workers — including U.S.-born Mexican Americans — became scapegoats for economic hardship. Rather than celebrating a romanticized history for one week each year, Santa Barbara should embrace a fuller history. Why not establish a tradition of including Chumash representatives as Fiesta Marshals, recognizing those who were here first? We can celebrate our heritage without erasing conquest, displacement, and inequality. Honoring Latino culture should extend beyond costumes and commercial festivities to include history, workers, and the Indigenous and Mexican peoples who shaped this region. —Paul López, S.B. Enough is enough.

The Six-Year Experiment

Viva La Chumash

INDEPENDENT.COM

hat began as a temporary pandemic measure has become a six-year experiment that residents never voted to make permanent. It is time to reopen State Street while its long-term future is being decided. This is not about cars versus people. State Street should work for pedestrians, drivers, bicyclists, seniors, families, and people with limited mobility. Right now, downtown feels fragmented and poorly managed. Businesses are harder to reach, circulation is confusing, and pedestrians contend with bicycles and fast-moving e-bikes. I have been nearly struck by a bicyclist there.

State Street is also becoming an overnight campground. Meaningful help, shelter, and services are needed — but compassion does not require surrendering our central public spaces. Residents, visitors, and businesses deserve a downtown that is clean, safe, and welcoming. We can preserve outdoor dining and attractive pedestrian areas while restoring carefully controlled, low-speed vehicle access. If city leaders believe the public supports permanent closure, put the question before the voters. Until then, remove the barricades, restore reasonable access, and let downtown breathe again. —Debbie Merlo, S.B.

***

anta Barbara should maintain downtown as a car-free zone! As the city enables the building of new housing and as enterprises like Yardi add office jobs, the car-free zone will help with downtown revival. We are all painfully aware that activity has been shrinking downtown, as it has shrunk even more severely in other cities. But the decline likely would be worse had we not established the car-free zone. The absence of cars on State Street helps to bring people downtown to stroll, to shop, to visit galleries and museums, to attend concerts, and to dine. Across the nation for many years, downtown retail commerce has declined, but some cities have bounced back. Despite the growth of suburban malls, closing of anchor stores, growth of on-line shopping, and office employees who work remotely, downtowns that established car-free zones do better, and many small shops and restaurants have regained walk-in traffic. Evidence from Europe shows that establishing pedestrian areas encourages shopping and dining, The closing of areas to traffic nearly always helps to maintain patronage. With downtown’s parking garages and parking lots immediately east and west of State Street, pedestrian access works well. —Bill Goldsmith, S.B., Professor Emeritus of City Planning, Cornell Univ.

For the Record ¶ The correct name of the new County Executive is Jana Petersen. And, last week’s story about Goodland Guns should have stated that a business license approval cannot be appealed. The Independent welcomes letters of less than 250 words that include a daytime phone number for verification. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. Send to: Letters, S.B. Independent, 223 E. De la Guerra St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101; or fax: 965-5518; or email: letters@independent.com. Unabridged versions and more letters appear at independent.com/opinions.

Opinions

AN UNRULY WOMAN

CONT’D

The Power of Radical Joy

From the Pacific Pride Festival to Pauli Murray’s Unsung Legacy AMAZON STUDIOS

BY LORISSA RINEHART ainbows borne aloft in bubbles floated

ART • APPAREL • COFFEE • MUSIC

alongside me last Saturday as I compulsively danced through Pacific Pride Festival to beats being dropped by DJ Darla Bea. Majestic drag queens parted the crowd as they strutted across the sumptuous lawn of Chase Palm Park. Kids valiantly controlled themselves, or not, in the face of adorable alpacas and bunny rabbits. At the same time, the festooned furry participants in the Pride Pet Parade got their final touches before queuing up for the big event. Friends cheersed in the beer garden. The Santa Barbara Gay Men’s Chorus warmed up just off the main stage. Face painters brushed on unicorns, butterflies, and glam galore. True to this year’s festival theme, “Out. Proud. Pauli Murray Unstoppable,” the radical power of sheer joy reverberated throughout the festival in ear-to-ear grins, also mentored Ruth Bader Ginsburg, cofounder of shouts of uncontrollable laughter, exuberant danc- the National Organization for Women, and served ing, and the palpable sense of community. as an advisor to presidents Franklin Roosevelt and Yet beneath this fantastical pageantry ran an John F. Kennedy. To name a few of their many undercurrent of sentiment that I can only analogize accomplishments. to the famous phrase of WWII submarine warfare: Simultaneously, Murray occupied the margins of “DAMN THE TORPEDOS!” the margins, often describing both the sexism and Because even those living under the larg- racism they encountered from the classrooms of est of proverbial boulders know that not only are Howard University to the Great Hall of the Supreme LGBTQ+ rights under threat, but so are the Court. Yet, it was precisely because of this marvery lives of the people who make up L Y U R W OM ginalized position that Murray viscerally UN this community. From surging antiA understood the limitations of freedom N trans laws to alarmingly high hate for all and therefore had the capaccrime rates to continued attempts ity to define how these limitations to repeal same-sex marriage, the might be expanded, or, when necLGBTQ+ community has withessary, exploded. stood a blitzkrieg over the past Murray is far from an outlier two years. And it shows no sign in the LGBTQ+ community that of letting up. has historically been one of Lady To even a casual observer of hisLiberty’s fiercest and most effective LO EH advocates. In 1968, drag queen and tory, this sadly comes as no surprise RI SSA RI N since tyrannical governments often transgender activist Marsha P. Johnson attack this community first. As to why, there played a pivotal role in the Stonewall Uprising are two reasons. that launched the modern gay rights movement, The first resides in the positioning of the itself a crucial component of the larger 1960s liberaLGBTQ+ community as “marginalized,” the defi- tion movements ecosphere. We would have no connition of which is inherent to the threat of the com- ception of social justice as we currently understand munity. Because to be marginalized is, to put it quite it without the rich contributions of poet, writer, simply, to exist on the margins of society and to be and women’s liberation activist Audre Lorde. Nor least protected by its laws, social norms, and ethical could we even conceptualize Title IX or the freedom considerations. The margins are by definition the women and girls have to play sports without the most vulnerable. fearless game Billie Jean King played both on and But so too are those who live on the margins, the off the tennis court. vanguards of freedom. It is, and has always been, Still, it is not these structural reforms that conhere where the limits to and definition of liberty are stitute the LGBTQ+ community’s greatest or most both tested and defined for all members of a soci- impactful contribution to American freedom. After ety. Herein lies the other reason tyrants attack the all, one cannot pen revolutionary legislation or presmargins first: to destroy the vanguards of freedom ent precedent-setting arguments every day. is to destroy the first, best defense of liberty for all. Instead, it is the common refusal to be anything Nowhere is this truism more aptly expressed than other than they are and to love anyone other than in the living legacy of Pauli Murray. they love, with the unstoppable resilience of joy that A Black person born a woman who at various forms the bedrock of the LGBTQ+ community’s times in their life identified as both she and he, and strength. It is without rose-colored glasses that I who had female romantic partners, Murray is a take this view. The moving AIDS Memorial Quilt central, and all too unsung, architect of the rights on display at this past weekend’s Pacific Pride Festhat we today hold to be self-evident. tival was more than a testament to the movement’s It was Murray, not Thurgood Marshall, who incalculable sacrifice for their freedom. conceptualized the legal arguments that would win But still, they blow bubbles, chase the perfect Brown v. Board of Education in 1954, ending school embodiment of glam, drop infectious beats, and segregation. Ten years later, Murray authored the dance nonstop. And, perhaps most awe-inspiring legal arguments that secured women’s equality in of all, they invite everyone to join them in this joy, the workplace under the Civil Rights Act. Murray in this strength, in this resilience. n

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14 THE INDEPENDENT

AUGUST 27, 2026 INDEPENDENT.COM

In Memoriam

obituaries

Richard Brough Rogers

Kristie Richard Elzinga

12/30/1948-08/20/2026

1941–2026

BY B E T H R O G E R S ichard Brough Rogers, a California busi-

nessman, decorated naval veteran, conservation leader, champion sailor, and sculptor, died July 28 in Santa Barbara.

He was 85. Born in Los Angeles in 1941, Richard was a third-generation Californian. His lifelong love of nature — especially the ocean — guided decades of public service devoted to protecting California’s forests, wildlife, marine habitats, and native plants. A 1963 graduate of the United States Naval Academy with a degree in electrical engineering, Richard served as a lieutenant in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1967, completing three tours in the Western Pacific. A combat-decorated veteran, he served as Officer of the Deck for fleet operations and as Command Duty Officer. After earning an MBA in finance from the University of Southern California in 1969, Richard worked in investment management and later served as president of Davis Cablevision. For more than four decades, he led Pacific Ranch Company, a diversified farming, ranching, land-investment, and horticultural-services enterprise. Ocean conservation was among Richard’s most important legacies. As president of the California Fish and Game Commission, he became a forceful advocate for implementing California’s Marine Life Protection Act and protecting the state’s marine ecosystems. His stewardship was recognized with Reef Check’s Poseidon Award in 2012 and Ocean Day California’s Ocean Champion Award in 2013. His broader public service included leadership roles with the California State Board of Forestry and California Wildlife Conservation Board. He founded and chaired the Dean’s Council of UC Santa Barbara’s Donald Bren School of Environmental Science and Management. He also served the CSU Channel Islands Foundation and Center for Plant Conservation.

Richard Brough Rogers at Annapolis

COURTESY PHOTOS

Conservation Leader

From 1988 to 2008, Richard served on the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden’s board, including terms as vice president and president, and co-chaired its capital campaign. The Botanic Garden presented him with its Honorable John C. Pritzlaff Conservation Award in 2008. Richard was an Olympic-class athlete, and sailing remained one of his enduring passions. Racing the Flying Dutchman, he completed an undefeated 1979–80 season while preparing for the 1980 Olympic Games before the U.S. boycott ended the team’s Olympic hopes. In 1984, Richard won Class A in the Southern Ocean Racing Conference, and later that year, The Shadow won Class B at Hawai‘i’s Clipper Cup. Richard approached life with enthusiasm and curiosity, taking pleasure in discovering new interests and sharing them with others. He loved scuba diving, ocean and fly fishing, skiing, international travel, Formula One racing, driving his candy-apple-red 1957 Chevrolet, and watching mysteries with his wife. He was a sculptor and a lifelong lover of music, which brought him joy and connection throughout his life; he especially enjoyed Thursday evening concerts at the Hollywood Bowl. Richard was well known for his hospitality and love of cooking. He delighted in preparing memorable meals — including his Bolognese, poached salmon, and refined sauces — opening fine wines, and welcoming family and friends aboard his boat or into his home. He created playful traditions, including the Golden Egg, that his family will treasure. Like all of us, Richard was a complex person. His legacy endures in the California landscapes he helped protect and in the family and friendships he shaped throughout his life. He is survived by his wife, Beth; five children; and eight grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Reef Check or the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. n

Born in Santa Monica and raised in Tarzana, Kristie was a true California (Cali) Girl! Blessed to be the daughter of Jennie P. and Raymond J. Richard, and the big sister to brother Raymond J. and sister Jacqueline (Jackie). She attended Sequoia Jr. High, Reseda High School and Pierce JC. While at Pierce Kristie was cover girl of the school’s twentieth centennial yearbook and enjoyed cheering leading. Kristie started her career at American Airlines in Passenger Services at LAX. For twenty years (1969-1989) she worked in all areas of customer service, including the opportunity to share her smile and warmth with thousands of passengers, while making the first TV commercial for AAL and L.A. newsprint. Soon afterwards, Kristie joined the banking industry (1990-2013) starting with Bank of America and ending her career with Rabo Bank. In between she celebrated thirteen years with her favorite banking institution, Santa Barbara Bank & Trust! Despite career success, Kristie’s family and friends came first. Kristie especially enjoyed being a wife, mother, grandmother and godmother. Always quick to run errands for those in need, she will be remembered for her hospitality, warmth and grace. Her home was always open to family and friends, and even if she didn’t know you. Kristie was approachable and was friendly with all people. During her lifetime Kristie served on several community boards. All near and dear to her heart, Oxnard

College Foundation, Port Hueneme Kiwanis, California Strawberry Festival, OceanAir Federal Credit Union (formerly CBC), Oxnard Ambassadors and The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Pt. Hueneme. Kristie also spent time as a state-certified Ombudsman for Ventura County, a very rewarding experience. Kristie leaves behind the ‘love of her life’, husband Richard (Dick) Elzinga. Married for over thirtythree years, both enjoyed traveling the world. Kristie was Dick’s co-pilot in life and in the cockpit! Enjoying different parts of the world and living life to the fullest. They loved living in Oxnard on the water. Kristie enjoyed playing pickleball, working out with girlfriends in Pt. Hueneme and participating in a monthly book club, quarterly gourmet dinner parties and socials at the Harbour Island clubhouse. Kristie is blessed to have her son Michael James Richard, who remains the light of her life. Marriage brought stepson Adam Elzinga and stepdaughter Kim Elzinga and three gorgeous grandchildren George, Henry and Clementine Elzinga (Brisbane, Australia). Kristie was thrilled to be Godmother to Ross Ashcraft and Blake Ashcraft. Kristie was blessed to remain friends with her high school buddies, for over sixty years! While living in Ventura County Kristie developed many friends, who were as close as family. Far too many people to mention, just know that each one of you made a difference in my life and my journey was more complete and happier because of each one of you. Blessings~ In lieu of flowers please make donations to: The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Oxnard & Pt. Hueneme, 1900 West Fifth St. Oxnard, CA 93030 Kristie’s services will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, September 9th at Santa Clara Mortuary at 2370 North H street, Oxnard. Continued on page 16

INDEPENDENT.COM AUGUST 27, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

obituaries Cody Oak Pallo

08/30/1976-03/03/2025

Dear big brother, I have tried to write your obituary. The task has felt heavy and inaccurate like a block of floating metal. When, in truth, I feel you now as translucence and warmth and everything. Your accomplishments in this life, the art you created, the music, the publications… they exist and they matter, rippling out as some gorgeous reflection of all you held. Even, at times, without your awareness. But how shallow listing them feels, in contrast to your laughter, imprinted and still audible to the child in me, that grew next to the child in you. You…. Whatever essence so obviously remains now, took my tiny hand and led me into the act of creation, the life of an artist. “Look at this!” will forever remain some mantra instilled by you. I’m looking out the window now, at the space where the plum tree was, the one that bloomed days after you passed. It was like your arm reaching out. And I wept when it was cut down. As if life in its innate ephemeral could somehow hold, all by itself, the love I feel for you. Or the love you, in that momentary form, created of this life. Thank you for everything. Your sister forever…. Still. C

William (Bill) Ray Thomas

07/31/1934-08/05/2026

William Ray Thomas passed away on August 5, 2026 of Congestive Heart Failure under VNA Hospice Care at the Smith Health Center in Santa Barbara, CA He is also known as Bill Thomas, Billy Ray Thomas; and as a teacher at San Marcos High School and Santa Barbara City College as Mr. Thomas. He is also known as Dad, Pops, Grandpa, 16

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To submit obituaries for publication, please call (805) 965-5205 or email obits@independent.com and Gramps. My life was intertwined with this gentle soul as my friend and my husband for 40 years; and while he now resides in Heaven, he remains embedded in the fabric of my heart and soul forever. His ashes will be dispersed off the coast of Santa Barbara in early September. Bill chose to write his own obituary where he suggested his wishes in place of a memorial service. --Diana Thomas I, William (Bill) Thomas am writing my own obituary because I decided that I would save my survivors the chore of having to try to remember and figure out what to include in an obituary for me. I do not know when I will die, but my health has been declining for a few years now and that gave me pause for reviewing and reflecting on my life as a whole. I began writing this in 2025, and reviewed and completed writing it in early 2026. I was born on July 31, 1934 in Colorado City, Texas. When I was seven years old, I and my two brothers, David and Harold, moved with our father, William Clinton Thomas and mother, Ora Lee Thomas, to Arcadia, California. The time was at the beginning of W.W. II, and I remember watching P-38 fighter planes fly in the always-clear blue skies above Arcadia (long before SMOG existed). I remember the war years as ones where I helped grow vegetables in the family’s Victory garden; I helped raise the chickens and rabbits; I collected newspaper for paper-drives; and I bought war stamps at school. Many things were in short supply because of the war, and I yearned for bananas and pineapple juice, and stood in long lines to purchase Double Bubble chewing gum. (Only one piece of gum allowed per person, so I remember chewing the same piece of gum for three days). When I was in the sixth grade my family moved to Monrovia, where I attended school, and when I was not going to school, I worked with my dad at his gas station. I sold gasoline to cars driving along Huntington Drive. (Route 66). I continued working at the gas station until I went away to UCSB for college. When I was a freshman at Monrovia High School, it was discovered that I had a very serious illness—hyperthyroidism. I then began two years of treatment and recovery that greatly affected my life. (I missed two years of school attendance.) After recovery I performed very well at Monrovia High School; I did well academically and I won various speech contests and was active in student government. After high

AUGUST 27, 2026

school I attended UCSB, where I majored in physical science and minored in math. In college I continued to be active in student government. While attending UCSB I married my first wife, Cynthia Billig (now deceased), moved permanently to Santa Barbara, graduated in 1957 from UCSB with Highest Honors, did graduate work in education and in physics, got a teaching credential, and was hired as the first Chemistry teacher at the just-opening San Marcos High School in Santa Barbara. Cynthia and I had two great sons, Lindon K. Thomas and Matthew C. Thomas. During my teaching career, I attended summer sessions at USC, Univ. of Washington, and for four summers I attended Oregon State University, where I obtained a Masters degree in science. For thirty-six years I continued teaching Chemistry, Physics and all the other science courses at San Marcos High School. At various times during those years I also taught physics labs and science teaching procedures at UCSB. I retired from teaching at SMHS in 1995, and the following year I began teaching physics part-time at Santa Barbara City College, where I taught for another fourteen years. During my fifty years of teaching science, I estimate that I taught approximately 10,000 students. While teaching at SMHS, I met and married my second wife, Diana Biffle Geuss. Diana is a treasure! I continually marvel at the great fortune and blessings that I have received as her husband. She is definitely the love of my life! As of this writing, we have been married for 38 years. During those years, we have travelled throughout the world (favorite place was Hau'ula on the island of Oahu), and hiked throughout the world (favorite hike was in the Swiss Alps), and completed various writing projects (I wrote an academic paper published in Physics Essays called "The Overlap Universe"; as well as writing 112 short stories that Diana compiled for me and put into a book for our family.) We have prayed together and played together-- including 100 games of Rummikub during Covid "lockdown." I loved our yearly treks to our 3 Marriott Timeshares (Newport Coast in California, Park City in Utah, and Palm Desert in California)-we had strategically selected those locations to bring us to ocean, mountains, and desert to nourish our souls. At various times in my life I engaged in gardening, jogging, hiking, cross-country skiing,

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bicycling, golfing, writing, drawing, painting (pastels and watercolor), beading, silk-screening, wine making, coin collecting, and especially, throughout my entire life, reading. Other activities during my life were these: I was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, I was active in Indian Guides with my two sons, I was an Episcopalian who, with Cynthia, attended at various times, Trinity Episcopal Church in Santa Barbara, St. Michaels Episcopal Church in Isla Vista and Christ the King Episcopal Church in Santa Barbara. My wife Diana and I attended Chapel of the Hills (later renamed Hope Community Church),Trinity Episcopal Church in Santa Barbara, and St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Isla Vista. When Covid hit, Diana and I started watching Hope Community Church online. I guess you could say that regarding churches, we had come full circle. I am survived by my best friend and helpmate, Diana Thomas, my sons Lindon Thomas (Karen) and Matthew Thomas, my grandchildren Cole Thomas, Clay Thomas and Melanie Monaco (Sam), one great-grandson (Leo) one great-granddaughter (Delia), sister-in-law Bonnie Thomas, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews along with grandnieces and grand-nephews. I remember in love those family members who passed before me: David Thomas (Brother), Harold Thomas (Brother), Beth Thomas (daughter-in-law), Pat Thomas (Sister-in-law) and other family and friends too many to name here. I want to leave behind some thoughts about kindness. It feels like this planet is lacking in kindness right now. With this in mind, let me suggest that in place of a memorial service, you perform the following “minimemorial” in my name: Deliberately think kind thoughts about someone (not me), perhaps someone you have not thought about for a while. As soon as you get a chance, say some kind words to someone. Then, when you have the opportunity, do something kind for someone. You decide what constitutes for you thoughts, words and deeds of kindness. I believe that surely there must be a Spiritual Law of Kindness. A Law that causes all of your thoughts, words, and deeds of kindness to accumulate together to make the Universe a better place. Quantum Mechanics tells us that the changing condition of an object at one location (like a subatomic particle) may have an instantaneous relation-

ship effect on a similar object at great distance.This relationship is referred to as “entanglement”. If entanglement can happen instantaneously in the physical world in a way that we really do not understand, then it seems to me that spiritual events may also happen in ways we do not understand. I believe that when good things happen, those good things can add together, instantaneously, to change the cosmos in a positive way. I am requesting of each of you that collectively we add more kindness into the world. Because of all of you, I have had a wonderful life. Thank you, and blessings to you all. --Bill Thomas 2026

Richard Swanson

10/26/1960-07/25/2026

Rich Swanson, a much loved friend to so many in Santa Barbara, a familiar face on the volleyball courts at East Beach for many decades, as well as a beloved son, brother, uncle and godfather passed away July 25th, 2026. Rich lived a full and meaningful life, loved his work, his friendships, and had a deep love for his community. He will be remembered as a friend to everyone, a treasured colleague, someone who lived life fully, traveled extensively and for the deep connections he made throughout his life. His friendship, laughter, and generous spirit will be deeply missed. A celebration of Rich’s life will be held on Sunday, August 30, 2026, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Cabrillo Pavilion, 1118 E. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara. Friends and loved ones are invited to gather for an afternoon of good food, share memories, stories and laughter as we celebrate Rich’s life, his accomplishments and the many friendships he cherished. Attire is nicely casual with a beach vibe. Following the celebration, guests are invited to bring a beach chair or towel and gather at the East Beach volleyball courts to watch the sunset together at one of Rich’s favorite places. Rich will forever be in our hearts, memories, the stories we continue to tell, and in the community he loved and was proud to call home.

obituaries John Morrison Fox 1946-2026

During the height of the full moon, July 29th, 2026, the huge soul of John Morrison Fox, age 79, began the journey to the next realm. He passed in Abundant Care, a loving home with hospice care in Santa Barbara, his devoted partner, Shelley Greenbaum, by his side, singing songs and reciting poetry. John, born October 24th, 1946, in Indiana, would say he “was sold on the black market to a well-to-do family with psychotic tendencies.” Overcoming the hardships of his beginning, John was blessed with a resilience, insight, and intelligence that carried him into myriads of different lives, bringing light and love to many. At age 7 he and his mother moved to Auburn, Ca, where he had to devise clever ways to feed himself like “fundraising” for the little league at 7 and selling questionably received tires at 10. Survival skills helped him live through unheard of situations and by 15, he was known as “Animal,” by his high school peers. John made it to UCSB by taking a special intelligence test that granted acceptance to wayward children from all over the state. Long before his ADHD was discovered, at age 57, he had the luck to be able to medicate it in college. He found a peer whose father sent him Ritalin and his college career turned a corner. His photographic memory stood out to a teacher who invited him to become a teachers’ aid. Post graduation John became a photography teacher at UCSB and was known for creating edgy art shows in Isla Vista that would turn into unforgettable parties. He spent years with the art alias Mad Max. His favorite office, before joining the 9-5 work force, was the decade he spent nude on More Mesa beach, playing volleyball, and backgammon and teaching people to kick back and RELAX! John’s ability to hypnotize people and himself became a talent he would use for good in the second half of his life. Many an injury or hospital visit healed in half the time because John stayed up visualiz-

To submit obituaries for publication, please call (805) 965-5205 or email obits@independent.com ing it. This deep self control and power-thinking was a meditation of sorts, a lot like his long running meditations from Sands Beach to Mesa Lane. After his daughter was born, 1981, with then partner and now ex-wife, Kathryn Jacobson, he found the new DAD relationship magnified the love in his giant heart and made it difficult to continue his off-grid life. John saw three choices: photography, law, or counseling. He chose to become an MFT and hypnotherapist and his high intelligence and natural understanding of human nature helped many people during his successful career. He kept photography as a hobby and was a certified “Master” Photoshop digital artist when it first came onto the scene. He has a full portfolio filled with family, friends and beloved animals. John, an avid “forever” student, continually studied cutting edge medical research for himself and his many clients, often guiding them in the right direction with their physicians. One client wrote, “He was the best kept secret in Santa Barbara.” Another wrote, “I was 100% opposed to the treatment John suggested, but his brilliant, often instantaneous insights got me to listen. And I knew he cared. Trusting him changed the direction of my life, and the benefits continue to this day, 10 years on.” John moved to and remained on the Mesa from 1987- 2025. Many Mesa-ites recognized and talked to this tall man who was always accompanied by whatever much loved dog he had at the time. John is survived by his daughter, KiaOra and his three grandchildren: Osiris, Isaiah and Ajala, his devoted girlfriend of 22 years, Shelley Greenbaum, and their dog, Lizzy. He will be missed and appreciated by so many in Santa Barbara for not only the love, inspiration, humor and entertainment he shared with friends and family, but also the healing he passed on to his many clients. A memorial will be held Saturday, September 26 at 1321 Alameda Padre Serra (Santa Barbara Middle School). Reception begins at 11:30. Our program begins at noon. Please join our celebration of John’s life. Your presence and memories of John are the most important gifts to us, and if you want to bring an optional potluck item to share, we will feast together. In lieu of flowers send donations to Shadow’s Fund at shadowsfund.org.

Virginia (Ginger) Randolph

07/20/1937-08/09/2026

Virginia (Ginger) Greenfield Randolph, passed away peacefully from natural causes on August 9, 2026, in Ventura, California. Her family and caregivers held a joyful 89th birthday party with her three weeks before her passing. Ginger was born July 20, 1937 to Dorothy Graves Greenfield and William (Bill) Miller Greenfield at Cottage Hospital, Santa Barbara, California. Ginger was joined in 1940 by brother John Taylor (Jack) and sister Janice in 1942. Due to Bill’s profession as a geologist for Signal Oil, the family frequently relocated all over California; Ginger lived in a dozen places before the family finally settled in Long Beach when she was a teenager. Despite all the upheaval, Ginger had wonderful memories of time spent with her close-knit and supportive extended family, as Bill and Dorothy’s own siblings and their children also lived in Southern California. While still a student at Wilson High School, Ginger met David Randolph and the two were married in Long Beach in 1955. Her “Irish twins,” as she liked to call them, soon followed: Carol Ann in 1955 and Julia Diane in 1956. The young family received much care and encouragement from grandparents, aunts and uncles during those early years. In 1962, Dave’s job took them to Woodland Hills, where Ginger devoted her time to marriage and her girls. She became an accomplished cook and seamstress and active in Carol and Julie’s schools, but never stopped longing to return to life at the beach. When Dave and Ginger divorced in 1973, she felt free to pursue the path to an independent, fulfilling, adventurous life. She found full-time employment in early data work, in the days of punch cards and tape libraries. Simultaneously, Ginger returned to college: Pepperdine University for a B.S. in Management in 1978 and to the University of Redlands

(her father’s alma mater) for an M.A. in Management in 1981. Having honed her computer programming skills, Ginger moved to Ventura County to work for several Naval Defense Contractors. She was finally able to return to life at the ocean, moving to Hollywood Beach in 1980. Ginger shared her beach home with Liesl, her beloved red Doberman. There she became a Coast Guard certified Power Squadron sailor and an avid ocean kayaker. Professionally, she moved on to become a Senior Programmer for County of Ventura Informational Technology Services. Throughout her life, Ginger considered Santa Barbara as her first home, and went on to devote much time there as an enthusiastic volunteer and instructor. She taught Computer Science at Santa Barbara City College, volunteered at the Santa Barbara Botanical Garden and as a grant writer for the Santa Barbara Women’s Fund. Ginger was particularly proud of becoming and serving as a docent for the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Extensive travel rounded out Ginger’s dreams of adventure. Among her many destinations were Alaska, Hawaii, Continental Europe, the United Kingdom, Israel, Jordan, China, New Zealand, Australia and Tahiti. She even acted as an art history docent during a Mediterranean cruise. Ginger was a loyal and generous friend, an adoring grandmother to Carol’s son Bret, and leaves a legacy of a full, well-lived life that inspired her daughters to persevere in reaching their own goals. Her love and support will be greatly missed. She was preceded in death by her parents Bill and Dorothy Greenfield, brother Jack Greenfield and his infant son Billy, brother- and sister-in-law Julian and Louise Randolph, and countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear, lifelong friends. She is survived by daughters Carol Randolph Lamb (John) and Julia Randolph; grandson Bret Bentzen; sister Janice Black (Jim;) nephews Steve and Bob Shindler, John T. Greenfield III; nieces Lisa Banks and Regina Randolph. We are deeply grateful to Buena Vista Hospice Caregivers, particularly Lerin, Denise, Angie, and Soralla for the compassionate and thorough care that they afforded our Mom; her caregivers at Navita/Home Sweet Home Ventura tended

to her daily needs with great patience and affection. Ginger has been entrusted to the care of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura, CA. Please visit https://everloved. com/life-of/virginia-randolph/ for updates on memorial plans, as well as opportunities to share your photos and memories about Ginger.

Marilyn Joyce Conrad 04/14/1936-08/19/2026

Marilyn passed away ,surrounded by friends, after a brief illness. Born in Oakland and raised in the Bay Area, she graduated from Mills College with a BA in Fine Arts. She was very happily married to two wonderful men. Her first husband of 28 years, George Conrad, a German Fulbright scholar, later a Banker, passed away in 1987. During his career with Bank of America they lived in Marin County, Hong Kong, and Frankfurt, Germany. They retired to Glenview, Illinois a suburb of Chicago and spent summers attending their beloved Ravinia Festival and traveling. Marilyn then worked at the Chicago Art Institute as assistant to the curator of Department of European Decretive Arts. She moved to Santa Barbara in 1999 to be retired near good friends. Here she met and married Norman Jacobs, a prominent Santa Barbara psychologist. They lived and traveled together happily for 10 years until his unexpected death in 2014. She lived the past years at Valle Verde where she treasured the many new friends she made there. She leaves all of them, her best friends Joe Scott and Michael Donovan of Chicago, and her friends and adopted family, of 58 years, Linda and Peter Beuret, now of Santa Barbara. She thanks Assisted Home Health and Hospice for the wonderful care she received. Marilyn requested no services be held. Memorial donations to Santa Barbara Botanical Garden.

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Cover Story

CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES OF THE SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT We’re Toasting Our 40th Birthday by Sharing Memories and Throwing the INDY40 Fest

e’re throwing parties and sharing memories to celebrate our 40th birthday here at the Santa Barbara Independent, which began with the inaugural Local Heroes issue on November 26, 1986. On the party front, the big bash is the INDY40 Fest, a free event open to all ages at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historical Park on Saturday, August 29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. There will be live music, interactive booths, and tons of journalism-themed fun at the corners of Santa Barbara and East Canon Perdido streets. We’re also hosting a series of panels inside the Presidio chapel, featuring Marianne Partridge, Nick Welsh, Josef Woodard, Tanya Spears Guiliacci, and many more veteran and new Indy voices. And all around the Presidio neighborhood, our “Pit Stop Partners” will be participating in their own ways: • • • • • •

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The Cheese Shop is hosting a deejay for the first time ever and giving out cheese bites, 2-4 p.m. Paloma is serving a ham and cheese sando plus mimosa for $20 to anyone who mentions INDY40 Fest, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Grassini Family Vineyards is offering two-for-one tastings. The S.B. Historical Museum will have free admission. Loubud Wines created an INDY40 Fest puzzle to solve with winemaker Laura Hughes sabering her sparkling wines at 2 p.m. Frequency Wines is serving a special flight of wines all week curated by our own wine expert Matt Kettmann that will benefit the Mickey Flacks Fund for Journalism. The Lobero Theatre is offering 20 percent off tickets for that night’s Go to Hale event. Other Pit Stop Partners include Lilac Pâtisserie, Paradise Found, and Opal Restaurant.

For a full rundown of the INDY40 Fest schedule and our Pit Stop Partners, see independent.com/indy40fest. As for the memories, we’re publishing an extended series of articles about the history of the Independent, from its origin as a merger of the Santa Barbara News & Review and The Weekly to Nick Welsh’s metamorphosis into the Angry Poodle and a look back at our first issue ever. Meanwhile, more than a dozen staff members and contributors from across the decades are penning short memoirs about how they started at the paper and what working here means to them. We started running some of these stories earlier this year and will be adding some every day through INDY40 Fest. And we plan to keep publishing them until we run out, so if you’ve got a good one, send it our way! We hope to see you an INDY40 Fest, and if not, we’ll see you on the newsstands next Thursday, and every day online at Independent.com. —Matt Kettmann

Custom artwork created by arti

st Tony Diaz

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NOV. 8, 2026

6 Years Running

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The Maoist Collective That Changed Santa Barbara Media

INGRID BOSTROM

Cover Story

The Beginning, End, and Enduring Legacy of the Santa Barbara News & Review

by George Thurlow t all began in a commune on the Mesa that called

itself the Cauliflower Collective, named after the vegetable that resembles a raised fist. The Collective was made up of veterans of previous political newspapers, including the vocally anti-war UCSB campus paper El Gaucho and the unabashedly radical Strategic Hamlet. Members of this group raised chickens, rabbits, goats, and a squatters’ garden on SBCC land, but they were focused on one big project: launching a newspaper that built community and progressive politics. Its name, the News & Review, came from long discussions about appealing to a broad audience. It was intended to “seek legitimacy,” said cofounder Jim Gregory, and represented “a neutral-sounding, respectable brand,” explained John Seeley, another cofounder. Other founders included El Gaucho editor Becca Wilson, activist Denise Kessler, and activist funder Richard Parker, with the steady advice of UCSB sociology professor Dick Flacks. Out of these meetings and a $5,000 grant from political philanthropist Stanley Sheinbaum, the Santa Barbara News & Review was born. It would go through many evolutions and was constantly filled with internal strife, but it became a force for progressive change in Santa Barbara, influencing politics and culture in a historically Republican stronghold. The News & Review’s first issue was in February 1972 and, in 1986, it became the Santa Barbara Independent, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

Daily Planet, Viewpoint, Survival Times, Wildflower, Initiative, Strategic Hamlet, and Town Crier. While some had a huge impact, like the Probe’s investigation of corruption at the county, none survived. Meanwhile, across the U.S., hundreds of alternative newspapers were launched in the 1970s, but almost all eventually sank. The News & Review’s first permanent home was in a carpet cleaner’s warehouse on Nopal Street. It was just a block away from Pat’s Liquor Store, where one of the brothers kept a handgun behind the counter—used fatally on a robber years later. It was where the iconic Seeley taught the staff how to drink Yukon Jack, and dinner was often a big bag of tortilla chips from the nearby La Tolteca tortilleria.

The News & Review sprinted out of the gates. In its first issue of 1972, an editorial promised to address community problems and educate the community, to the city’s potential. Later that year, it published an exposé of the Sheriff’s Office, and the next year, it covered bribery allegations against a prominent county official. At a time when there were few women in newsrooms, the News & Review produced an inspiring list of female editors, writers, and reporters, including: •

Early Aspirations The News & Review was unique in the United States in its structure, its self-governance, and its editorial principals. The paper was formed as a collective, in which each worker received a “share” for every six months of full-time employment, all under the legal umbrella of a nonprofit trust. The day-to-day decisions were made by the staff, which met several times a week to hash out everything from story assignments to work schedules. At the time, at least one of the founders marveled that “for better or worse, the News & Review will remain a collectively operated, community newspaper.” It would be “impossible” to ever sell the paper, another staffer proclaimed. It took on the powerful Santa Barbara daily, the NewsPress, which routinely ran biased stories about anti–Vietnam War activists proclaiming in headlines, “Destruction Seen as Militants Goal.” Seeley declared the News-Press was nothing more than a “stenographer for the Sheriff’s Department” that used aggressive tactics to shut down political protests at UCSB and in Santa Barbara. Progressive papers were not new to town. Isla Vista had produced numerous versions, such as Probe, Argo, Journal,

George Thurlow

Controversial Content and Committed Creators

•

• •

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Joan Walsh, who’d become a national reporter for National Public Radio and The Nation, and a commentator on CNBC and CNN. Karen Stabiner, author of at least 10 nonfiction works covering women’s issues, cooking, and fashion, and a regular contributor to the largest newspapers in the U.S., including the Los Angeles Times. Deborah Redmond, who joined the collective at age 16 and became a masterful managing editor. Diane Alters, who became an editor at the Denver Post, Sacramento Bee, and Boston Globe before joining the faculty at Colorado College. Suzi Parker, who’d write for major newspapers and Ms. Magazine, and is now an investigative reporter in Arkansas and author of the book Sex in the South: Unbuckling the Bible Belt.

The men at the News & Review also took their journalism nationwide: •

Tim Crews—who broke a window on Nopal Street with his fist when editing did not go well—became an icon of fierce public interest journalism in rural Northern California, winning numerous awards for

•

his coverage of rural police tactics, even spending five days in jail for refusing to name his sources. Wink Glennon, an influential editor of the paper in the ‘70s who went became a children’s books publisher. Bobby Gettlin, who was hired by Washington D.C. investigative reporter Jack Anderson and wrote a controversial book arguing that Richard Nixon was framed by U.S. intelligence agencies. John Hurst, who, as an L.A. Times investigative reporter, wrote an exposé about Secret Service agents selling their specially marked SS ammunition to gun enthusiasts on the black market. Jim Gregory, who became a professor at the University of Washington and wrote books on the Dust Bowl diaspora and the Seattle general strike. Charles Rappleye, who was news editor of the L.A. Weekly, and wrote books about the Mafia and about slaves during the Revolutionary War. This “resolute investigative reporter,” wrote his L.A. Times obituary, was “interested in telling stories of the overlooked in Los Angeles.” Richard Parker, who cofounded Mother Jones magazine and wrote the definitive biography of economist John Galbraith while teaching at Harvard.

This News & Review team published a number of major stories in those early days, among them: •

Bob Gettlin’s audacious investigation in 1976 of the La Vista Club for the Sightless. Unable to otherwise report on this nonprofit run by a local couple, Gettlin took a job there as a dishwasher. He found corruption, diversion of clients’ funds, and, worst of all, the use of a closet to house 79-year-old blind client Joe

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Romero. Gettlin’s piece led to a major investigation by the state Attorney General and the eventual closing of the club. Just as bold was John Hurst’s months-long investigation of a Santa Barbara icon: the Brotherhood of the Sun and its picture-pure Sunburst grocery stores, whose workers were as wholesome and ebullient as anybody would find. Hurst found that commune members were turning over their private bank accounts to cult leader Norman Paulsen, who was using the funds to amass a vast arsenal of guns and ammo at a secret compound in the Santa Ynez Mountains. The story shocked the health food community, and even involved the cops interrogating a News & Review reporter accused of impersonating a police officer. He was released after several hours of questioning. A tip from a Santa Barbara pulmonologist led to a deep look at the Johns Manville plant in Lompoc and its extensive use of asbestos to mix with diatomaceous earth mined there. The News & Review examined hundreds of death certificates in the basement of the County Courthouse and found an unusual tie to mesothelioma, a rare and often fatal disease of the lungs caused by the deadly exposure of asbestos fibers. The Columbia Journalism Review cited the report as one of the first in the country documenting the negative health effects of asbestos exposure. In a similar vein, Patricia Cooney looked into the mysterious deaths of two young men at the Infomag tech plant in Goleta, Juan Beltran and Hector Perez, and found they were exposed to all types of chemicals, including vast amounts of WD-40, without masks. The state Division of Industrial Safety inspected the plant and found 27 health and safety code violations. A story that upset the Santa Barbara elite detailed how the Carpinteria polo fields were going to be quietly taken over and turned into condos by some of the rich polo players in Santa Barbara. The effort failed and the polo fields remain. There were also the fun stories, such as going after Mayor David Shiffman after he had a police scanner and radio installed in his private vehicle in order to monitor police communications. And there was, of course, legendary UCSB professor Harvey Molotch, who wrote a wonderful politics column called City Lights under the pen name Carl Maven.

Not Easy Being Idealistic In her review of the News & Review’s first 10 years, Joan Walsh spent a lot of time talking about all the conflicts at the paper. Most were rooted in the News & Review’s unique form of organization known as “Rotation.” In recognition of their egalitarian, some would say Maoist inspirations, the Rotation’s goal was to discourage hierarchies—or, more specifically, avoid a newsroom run by a clique of (mostly male) reporters, editors, and writers that exploited the production and advertising grunts. Ruther reflecting those Maoist leanings, there was even a “Rotation Committee” that met once a year to reassign reporters, editors, and production staff. One good reporter was told to sell advertising in Isla Vista; another very good reporter got the downtown sales assignment. Process soon became more important than content. And too few recognized that advertising sales would be the lifeblood of alternative newspapers and magazines. Star reporters like John Hurst just shook their heads and ignored the dance. Others like Jeff von Kaenel, a brilliant ad sales person, just fumed over the procedures and processes. He went on to save the Chico News & Review from bankruptcy and founded the Sacramento News & Review and 22

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Reno News & Review. The News & Review’s biggest mistake was charging for the paper. As one staffer put it: “Why would you put an ugly plastic box around your beautiful newspaper and then force your reader to find a quarter in their pocket?” The cofounders eventually conceded that staffers were correct in pushing for a free publication, but all that held the enterprise together in those early days was the revenue from subscription and newsstand sales. Even then, staff were at one point paid just $35 a week. The tide was already turning nationwide. Alternative papers from Chicago to Boston started giving away their papers for free, recognizing that real revenue was in advertising, not from quarters dribbled into beat up newspaper racks. The News & Review finally went free, but not before enduring several financial crises.

Merger Makes the Indy In 1980, the News & Review’s leaders decided the ownership of the paper had to be changed to keep the paper afloat with new capital. They called for an auction, which attracted offers from a partnership headed by Marianne Patridge, one from Jeff von Kaenel and his successful Chico News & Review, and one from former editor Eric Mankin. Besides her journalism pedigree—including key positions at both Rolling Stone and the Village Voice—Partridge offered something that nobody could refuse: 10 percent of the stock in the paper to the News & Review’s equity shareholders. Mankin offered a payout in five years while vonKaenel’s legal counsel worried about IRS consequences. “It is our opinion that the beneficiaries of the trust should be rewarded for the 12 years they have invested in keeping this weekly alive,” wrote Partridge in her bid. “A substantial percentage of equity would also insure that the trust would maintain an active role in shaping the destiny of the News & Review.” Partridge’s bid, backed by News & Review cofounder Richard Parker and New York investment advisor Rick Grand Jean, won the day. But it was a bitter day for many. Deborah Redmond, who started working at the paper when she was 18 and later married von Kaenel, said her husband was “devastated” by the outcome, feeling that many of their “friends” had “betrayed” them.

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By 1985, the paper was again in financial straits. A financial document circulated at the time showed the News & Review had $57,000 in assets but $88,000 in liabilities, including $26,000 in loans and $31,000 owed the printer. It had not paid staff for weeks and it was unclear if payroll would ever be met. A major reason was due to an aggressive new player in town: The Weekly, an entertainment newspaper that was scooping up a worrying share of the News & Review’s advertisers. A classic garage startup with little overhead, The Weekly was founded by UCSB grad and part-time waiter Randy Campbell. Rather than continue fighting until their mutual deaths, the two papers decided to join forces in 1986 to form the Santa Barbara Independent. In negotiations that led to decades of acrimony among the owners, Campbell held out for 51 percent of the shares of the newly created newspaper. And that 10 percent given to the beneficiaries as part of the first News & Review sale evaporated due to a clause in the merger that required all of the new partners to put up capital. Those shareholders couldn’t muster the $5,000 to keep their shares. Despite all of the News & Review’s internal feuds, constant turnover, and meager pay, that Maoist-inspired newspaper managed to blossom into today’s Independent, which thrived. As major, multimillion-dollar alternative newspapers in big cities such as Boston, New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Phoenix withered and died in the 2000s, the Independent booked page after page of advertising, tallying six-figure profits in the boom years. More importantly, the Independent consistently wins statewide awards annually, and sometimes national ones, for its reporting, writing, photography, art design, and columns. And it’s produced superstar writers such as Nick Welsh, the best political columnist in California today, if not the entire United States. It has good blood. The former publisher of the Santa Barbara Independent from 1994 to 2006, George Thurlow started his 35-year newspaper career at the Santa Barbara News & Review, where he rotated through jobs as copyreader, production staff, production manager, Isla Vista advertising salesperson, City Hall reporter, and ultimately editor. He supported himself with an overnight doughnut-making job at UCSB.

Inside the November 26, 1986 Debut by Matt Kettmann

he cover was rather muted, by today’s stan-

dards: a pale yellow banana with a red stick of dynamite next to a pixelated “1” and the words “Volume One Number One,” predicting, presumably, a forthcoming explosion of journalism in Santa Barbara. Those sparks continue to fly 40 years later, as do customs that came along with that inaugural edition: the Angry Poodle (eventually revealed to be Nick Welsh, see page 25); Josef Woodard’s constant byline; a robust Arts & Entertainment section hitting everything from dance to film; a News section about offshore oil, controversial developments, and boneheaded criminals; and lots and lots of advertisements from Santa Barbara businesses, some that continue to support the paper today. That issue launched perhaps the Indy’s proudest tradition: a cover story on the region’s Local Heroes, which remains as our Thanksgiving week issue each November. The 1986 version honored names that still ring bells today, at least for those in town in more recent decades: theater leader Rod Lathim, arts organizer Patrick Davis, lawyer extraordinaire Deborah Talmage, activist-politico Joyce Howerton, UCSB events guru Roman Baratiak, and Casa de la Raza’s Armando Vallejo, to name a few. The paper opens with a letter from the paper’s then-new owner-operators Marianne Partridge (who owned the News & Review) and Randy Campbell (who owned The Weekly). They merged their two papers to make the Independent, and “committed to publishing an independent newspaper for independent people.” That week’s Angry Poodle, signed by Trixie, relayed praise from the News-Press boss B. Dale Davis on the new paper; poked fun at Mayor Sheila Lodge, who said the column was like “fingernails on a blackboard”; and mentioned a typesetting error that inserted a $ sign into Exxon’s ad in the final News & Review issue. There was also an update on the attempt to revive the anti-outdoor-sleeping ordinance, and some pondering over whether David Landecker would run for Tom Rogers’s City Council seat since the latter had been elected county supervisor. A development above Hendry’s Beach, a pretty blonde’s stock fraud scam, a baby-faced man who murdered a homeless man, and the leaf-blower ban showed up on the News pages. The A&E section unveiled the Film Fest’s 1987 poster, featured Ensemble Theatre Company’s production of A Coupla White Chicks Sitting Around Talking, and include movie reviews for Spike Lee’s She’s Gotta Have It (“spunky, customtailored dark horse,” wrote Woodard) and the animated American Tail (“trite,” concluded George Delmerico, also the art director). It was a good time for going to the movies. Star Trek IV, The Color of Money, and Crocodile Dundee were at the Arlington while Sid & Nancy played the Riviera and Stand by Me showed in a Goleta building that’s now home to Bicycle Bob’s and The Imperial. There was even a Spanish-language screen on State Street at the Mission Theater (today Metro 4), where La Ruletera and Reto a la vida were playing. Or you could rent your own movie screen to watch videos at home for $20 a night, as advertised by DAC Video Productions. The music scene was also pumping. Touring bands included Timbuk 3 (“The Future’s So Bright…”) at Oscar’s (1129 State), Gene Loves Jezebel at UCSB’s Campbell Hall, and Everything but the Girl at the Lobero. The Pontiacs seemed to be playing every night somewhere, whether that

was Ahzz or Gallagher’s, which also had repeat performances by The Humanics. The Food section showcased Borsodi’s as “The Survivor” in Isla Vista, where the dining room featured a “trompe l’oeil of a ceiling ripped open to a lovely blue sky, an artistic testament to the 1970 Bank of America burning,” observed Martin Perlman, noting it attracted a “diverse clientele of counterculture survivors, foreign students, political activists, and those in search of a decent cup of coffee.” Restaurant ads included the 10-course buffet with a free soda from Panda Chinese Restaurant at 515 State Street for $4.25, a Sunday brunch at the Elephant Bar by the airport for $8.95, and $1 for sake at Arigato in Victoria Court, where the rock ’n’ roll was free. Thanksgiving dinner was a popular promotion, like the choice of turkey, venison, duck, or hasenpfeffer with all the fixings (including champagne/wine) for $11.95 to $14.95 from the German House, where Sushi Teri is now on Bath. Other ads offered a full computer setup (with hi-res amber screen and floppy disc drives) for $899 from Channel Data Systems in El Mercado Plaza and $7 per hour for a lane at Orchid Bowl, where Bowlero is now. Another was a call for models, over the age of 4, to compete in person later in Carpinteria. The back page ad was Captain Video selling 13-inch color TVs for $369, while the classifieds listed a ’47 Ford pickup for $2,900 and a ’71 VW Bug for $1,100, among dozens of other vehicles. Personal ads were very much a thing, and just as entertaining to read today: •

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As could be expected for a brand-new paper, a few of the pages offered their own perspectives on the merger. Woodard, writing a column called Night Light, penned it as a parable. “By golly if this wasn’t an old-fashioned paper war carrying on in an erstwhile hamlet of tranquility!” he wrote of the News & Review versus The Weekly bout. “You could smell the blood and the ink spilling on the streets. You could put your ear to the ground and hear the rumblings of pride and prejudice, of petty espionage and scooping frenzy. Lo, it was a good fight.” Even the sports columnist Dana Brown—son of Bruce “Endless Summer” Brown—used his word count to lament the death of competition by the two weeklies merging, only to relish that the daily would now be their common foe. The photo that accompanied that story showed four men pushing a woman strapped to a bed down a city street. “Bedridden, Kym Herrin gets a hand from The Santa Barbara Independent at Rocky’s Fifth Annual Bedrace, last Saturday,” read the caption. “The Independent team made it through the first two rounds before breaking the bed. Kym escaped injury.” n No other context was given. INDEPENDENT.COM AUGUST 27, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

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Cover Story

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INGRID BOSTROM

The Angry Poodle’s Birth Story How Our Column Emerged from a Merger and Nails the Plot Every Wednesday Morning by Nick Welsh

o the best of my recollection, I was never bitten by a radioactive poodle. So, sadly, I don’t know my own origin story. Since I get asked about it a fair amount, this can be kind of awkward. Not as awkward, however, as having to explain to your children that their father is actually a female dog. But still, awkward enough. Here’s what I do remember. One day about 40 years ago, the Santa Barbara Independent’s editor-in-chief and coowner, Marianne Partridge, called me into her office and suggested I might want to sit down. After I sat down, she then suggested I might want to stand up and shut the doors, of which I remember there being six or eight. It was a weird room. We were working together at that time for a paper called the News & Review. What she wanted to tell me was that we were about to merge with our bitter arch-rivals, a paper called The Santa Barbara Weekly. I was not a fan of the Weekly. Even less was I a fan of what I thought was its unduly self-satisfied column of alleged media criticism called “Trixie, the Angry Poodle Barbecue.” To be honest, I never could even get the name straight. It took me many years for me to realize it was not all about cooking dogs. The merger was traumatic but necessary. It gave rise to the Independent. But in the moment of that announcement, I was decidedly not happy. My very first words in response to this revelation were: “Fine then, but kill the damn dog.” I was referring to the Angry Poodle column. I despised pretty much everything about it. The people behind it were nice people, but they used the word “irreverent” to describe the column. Anyone who uses

that word to describe themselves lacks the necessary capacity for shame and embarrassment that sentient beings require to stay alive. In spite of my emphatically articulated feelings, the column survived. It was deemed a necessary diplomatic concession to help the otherwise feuding factions come together in the formation of a more Nick “Angry Poodle” Welsh, with the late writer/filmmaker Russ Spencer perfect union. (right) and the Indy's first photographer Christopher Gardner (left) I didn’t like it. But I got it. Initially, I had as little do with the column as humanly possible. The writer was a genuine original who Barbara always knew. When I’d go down to the Moreton Bay showed up at press conferences under the courthouse arch- fig tree by the freeway where homeless people famously used way armed with a boombox, which he’d hoist up on his to hang out, they’d all start barking at me in unison: “Hey, it’s shoulder and point at whichever candidate happened to be Nixie!” It was a gas. The most astute readers of Santa Barbara’s many newspapers over the years have always been people on running for whichever office. Unbeknownst to us, he was also pioneering a brand-new the streets. Along the way, I got impressed by the literary pretensions journalistic style that can only be described as magical surrealism. He wrote vividly about events that hadn’t actually of certain sports columnists; I was amazed how they could happened but which he thought would have been really cool spin angel hair out of next-to-nothing. Their columns had a and funny if only they had. He never got around to letting beginning and an end. In between, they had to weave a rug. readers in on the joke. Somehow, he never let his editors in Hey, maybe I can do that, I thought. So, it began. Also, along the way, I started signing my name. It was on it either. The last I heard, he had moved to Japan and was making about a year after the Painted Cave Fire of 1990. The demand good money teaching English. How the column came to fall for building permits from people whose homes burned overwhelmed the processing capacity of the county’s Planning & into my lap remains lost to the miasma of memory. I had done a column before. Catholic school teachers beat Development Department. Some owners wanted to rebuild writing into me. A high school English teacher accused me of bigger and better. It was a lose-lose-lose situation. Push came “verbal vainglory.” I couldn’t tell if it was an insult or compli- to shove and things got nasty. Some unnamed group started taking out full-page ads ment. So, clearly, I had qualifications. Initially, it was more or less a collective effort. A typi- that looked and read like investigative newspaper articles that cal column would consist of four or five quasi-opinionated exposed county planners as perfidious mountebanks. The news chunks—mostly about local politics—that were col- only problem was that these exposés had no byline. orful or fun or incriminating or How could I write a column slamming them for not signilluminating or embarrassing for ing their name if I didn’t? That was the first signed column. which no excuse could be conjured Welsh poet, drunk, and womanizer Dylan Thomas said, to squeeze them into an actual “Love is the last light spoken.” At the Independent, the Poodle news story. In a word, they were tends to be the last word written. outtakes. I’m at the keyboard by 6 a.m. every Wednesday. It’s usually These early columns were not written by 8 a.m. or a little later. If I’m lucky, lightning strikes signed. There was no byline. This in between. Ideas will present themselves that I could never reflected the editorial reality that consciously conjure. Your hidden brain wakes up. I have no the items of any given column had idea how it works. I just marvel when it does. Every Wednesbeen suggested by any one of many day, I feel like I won the lottery. writers and reporters. It was my Do you know how lucky I am? job to gather these nuggets and As Blanche DuBois is escorted to the funny farm in the then figure out some illusion of play A Streetcar Named Desire, she confides to her attendant, flow. “I have always relied upon the kindness of strangers.” Anyone For many moons, this lack of lucky enough to write a column has to feel exactly the same. a byline became something of a But more than that, I have always relied upon the kindthing. “Who is Trixie?” people ness of editors. They’re the ones who save me from myself, would ask. As pseudo-mysteries whether I think I need saving or not. On occasion, they’re went, it was a fun ruse. actually right. Over the years there have been many. While some prominent news But for the last umpteen-plus years, it’s been Marianne editors in town were genuinely Partridge. That’s the same Marianne Partridge who 40 years in the dark as to who wrote it, the ago suggested I might want to sit down. n real media cognoscenti in Santa You know how lucky we are?

m right

The early Indy crew, with Nick Welsh on the botto

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The Voice of the Independent

SANTA BARBARA MAYORAL AND CITY COUNCIL

Hired as Our Receptionist at Age 19, I’m Still on the Front Lines, 36 Years Later

CANDIDATE FORUMS

by Tanya Spears Guiliacci COURT ESY

started at the Indy on September 6, 1988, at the

age of 19. When I arrived, the publisher at the time seemed mostly impressed by my uncles, Robert “Big Man” Pointer and Earl “The Pearl” Pointer, who were football legends for the Santa Barbara High Dons. (“Big Man” was even in the Guinness Book for being the heaviest high school football player at 487 pounds.) I don’t recall a formal interview. The publisher just shook my hand, said “Welcome to the Independent,” and left for a three-month honeymoon. My first week was rough—no training, no tour, no introductions. The office was chaotic, phones ringing constantly, people angry and mean. “I wonder how long this one will last?” I overheard someone say about me, which made sense, given they’d just fired three receptionists in a single week. My coworker Duncan Westley absolutely terrified me at first. He yelled at me to put the newspapers that we subscribed to in his mailbox. Then, a few days later, he was screaming at the top of his lungs, “Who the fuck is stuffing papers in my fucking box?!” Despite the chaos, I chose to stay because I felt needed. Each day, I was able to put out small fires and bring order to the office. I left for less than a year to live in San Diego, but was rehired right away when I returned. My most interesting Indy memories were during those earlier days of the 1980s and ’90s. I was surrounded by incredibly colorful characters: a colleague who ate dog biscuits at his desk, one who’d sunbathe nude on the building next door, a man who made his wife and son sit outside in the car while he worked a full day, and another who’d leave for three hours to make lunch for a husband who no one ever saw. If Laz (RIP) or “Tim” went missing, we usually found them having a midday drink at the Gold Coast. One time, “J” got arrested, so “X” sent someone to bail them out, but that person got arrested too. After a third person was sent and also got arrested, “X” finally had to go down and bail out all three. We’d even hire strippers to celebrate office birthdays back then, often attracting the most random performers. It was a crazy, hilarious, and unforgettable time. There were rarely consequences for anyone’s actions. Our Angry Poodles softball team existed for more than a decade. I’ve played first base since I was 9, but it was the first time for most of our team. We had full uniforms, played every Thursday against other businesses, and were actually really good. When the News-Press challenged us one day, we beat them 17-4. The team was a great way to make new employees feel less nervous and like they belonged. Afterward, we’d head to Pasqual’s to celebrate. It was 36 years ago when I started as the receptionist, and I’m still at the front desk, though my job has evolved tremendously. As office manager, I handle legal advertising, obituaries, phones, and supplies, while also acting as a sound board, counselor, nurse, and bodyguard. I am a huge believer in customer service and enjoy helping people find the answers they need. I know

MODERATED BY

RYAN P. CRUZ DISTRICT 5

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Thursday, September 17, 5:30pm

DISTRICT 6

Tanya Spears Guiliacci

exactly what every single person on staff needs, how they prefer their calls handled, and how to cover for them when they’re busy or away. I’ve found a true calling in handling the obituaries. Being there for people during a difficult time is incredibly rewarding. I try to humanize the experience and bring them out of their sorrow for a few minutes. My goal is to stop the noise, let them know I’m not going anywhere, and offer whatever support they need. Hearing a customer say how easy I made it, ask to give me a hug, or offer a simple thank you means more than anyone will ever know. Recently, one of my colleagues said he was shocked by how patient I am on the phone, which brought tears to my eyes, especially since he didn’t realize that caller was screaming at me. After helping someone with an obituary, two other coworkers told me I should be a counselor. It feels good to be recognized for doing something you truly love. As the newspaper’s first line of defense, I am very protective, and sometimes have to stop people from walking straight past me, which often leads to me being labeled as rude. There’s been racism and violence—once, I was slapped; another time, someone rolled their glass eye across the floor at me; and once I was nearly stabbed with a pencil. I still get dismissed to my face, when people decide I’m not the person they need. I’m the exact person with their answers. Ultimately, I’ve been the “voice” of the Independent for most of the past four decades, and I take great pride caring for this entire office and the greater community. As a Santa Barbara native, the Independent means family to me. We are a bunch of unique, funny characters with very different personalities, beliefs, and backgrounds, and that’s exactly why the Independent works so well. We are the paper of record for our community, and I couldn’t imagine Santa Barbara without it. It was an honor to join the Indy two years after it started, and amazing to see the paper that it has grown into today.

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1986

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ARTS FEATURE

DIANNE VAPNEK, DANCING QUEEN

n the summer of ’97, a small crowd gathered inside

Dianne Vapnek had never run a festival before, and she had never owned a dance studio nor Santa Barbara’s Earthling Bookshop, peering over launched a nonprofit, for that matter. What she did cappuccinos to catch a glimpse of New York chorehave a preternatural talent for, however, was collaboographer Doug Varone and his company of dancration. Pearson was overseeing all of the university ers. They clapped in delight as the artists shimmied programming; Burnaby was running a smooth-astheir torsos around café tables and bookshelves before pirouetting onto State Street. Varone chatted up the audimolasses operation downtown. SUMMERDANCE, ence, calling out for passersby to join his motley procesonce intended as a weeklong experiment with a sinsion down to the Lobero Theatre. gle resident artist, had over the years mushroomed into a three-week, multi-company production. VapIt was the spontaneous opening ceremony of a new festival in town called SUMMERDANCE, the brainnek needed help—and space. child of East Coast transplant Dianne Vapnek. Varone “She was off and running,” remembered Varone, “very often, she would admit, without any knowlwould be leading the charge for a week of master classes edge of how and what to do. It was this beautiful and performances; further north on the UCSB campus, SUMMERDANCE’s Artistic Director Jerry Pearson was innocence and passion for dance that was so endearbusying himself with preparations over the lectures and ing about Dianne in the early years. But she was a fast learner and turned SUMMERDANCE and then open rehearsals. later, DANCEworks into a vibrant and cherished “Early [January], I received a phone call out of the blue from a woman named destination for many artists to follow.” Dianne Vapnek,” he recalled, “who Meeting the moment, Santa Barbara Museum Mark Dendy and Dianne Vapnek told me that she wanted to start a of Art opened its galleries to Vapnek for lecturedance festival in Santa Barbara. demonstrations. In the Presidio neighborhood, the King, Christina Sanchez, and Timo Nuñez Paying Tribute to She had grown up around Jacob’s among them—and for many, losing Vap- Lobero Theatre signed on for evening-length works. NesPillow, and it was her dream to nek symbolized a major setback in dance tled above the downtown landscape, Center Stage Theatre a Santa Barbara build a similar opportunity for advocacy created by and benefitting the screened dance films and documentaries. Not to be overDance Legend dance artists; but unlike the Pillooked, Montecito’s Music Academy of the West hosted lively Central Coast. low, one that centered around “Dianne treated dance as a commu- “informances.” And then the festival kept on expanding. by Ninette Paloma creating more than performance.” nity-building force; a vital, living art,” said There was krumping at the Carrillo Recreation Center, salsa Photos by I had just moved to Santa Bardance instructor and DANCEworks sup- under the stars at Casa de la Guerra, and dance jams at Chase David Bazemore bara, and the grip of trepidation over porter Susan Alexander. Palm Park. Between talk backs and master classes, SUMa new hometown loosened when I wan“She brought the very best of dance to Santa MERDANCE’s dazzling roster of choreographers worked on dered into the bookstore that morning. An Barbara and shared it with everyone,” said dance film- collaborative pieces with area artists: Robert Battle and State maker Robin Bisio. accidental witness to the debut of a new arts fest? I Street Ballet; Doug Elkins and Santa Barbara’s hip-hop colleccould hardly believe my good fortune. Abandoning my search Vapnek had spent more than three decades in Santa Bar- tive; Brian Brooks with the city’s youth dancers. for a summer read, I followed Vapnek downtown and straight bara championing the vanguard, reaching across disciplines Some of the programming was free, most of it intentionally into her playful world. Her Cheshire Cat smile hinted at all the and coasts to bring thought-provoking work to those who affordable. Santa Barbara was still enjoying restraint back then: mischief to come. might never experience it otherwise. Over the years, Vapnek’s catalog of productions—from Throughout her career, stardust seemed SUMMERDANCE to DANCEworks and the intimate dance to trail behind every new project, every salons held in her living room on Garden Street—began to new artist she embraced. reveal a grander purpose. Her gift to each choreographer (time and trust) was also an invitation for mainstream audiences to sit still in the shadows of conceptual art. By asking nothing of the choreographer and everything of the viewer, she was releasing all parties from the burden of expectation, daring In the early hours of a particularly warm Saturday, a line forms in front of D’Angelo them instead to consider process over output. “Dianne was steadfast in her belief that artists deserved the Bakery as dancers shuffle into the Diane right conditions in which to do their bravest work,” remem- Knowles Academy of Dance. Sinking bered Sheila Caldwell, DANCEworks liaison. “She provided onto the floor of the tiny studio, I press a platform for creation, an audience for the premiere, and the my back against the cool wood and wait for the Doug Varone dancers to arrive. resources to carry new pieces forward.” “She was an incredible person, with endless warmth, gen- Laurie Burnaby, SUMMERDANCE’s erosity, and unrivaled enthusiasm for supporting dance and cofounder and managing director, sits the creative process. Dianne facilitated what is for me the down next to me and asks about my feshappiest creative time in my life,” said Adam Barruch, resident tival experience so far. She is warm and choreographer for DANCEworks 2015. attentive, instantly making me feel at ease When the Santa Barbara dance community received word in a room full of strangers. Over the next of Vapnek’s passing in late June, tributes to her mentorship and nine festivals and every time I run into impact soon followed. The city had long earned a reputation her around town, memories of this day for cultivating dance luminaries—Martha Graham, Alonzo will resurface.

Off and Running

Preparing a 2016 project at the Lobero Theatre

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AUGUST 27, 2026

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The median-income level hovered around the $35,000-a-year mark, and egalitarianegalitarianism was trending. When Mikhail BaryshBaryshnikov hit the stage for SUMMERDANCE’s final performance in 2006, and a ribbon of dance enthusiasts formed around the Lobero Theatre the width of Canon PerPerdido Street, Vapnek could have easily charged a premium for a chance to see the legendary dancer. The price of an entry ticket? $50. Choreographer Aszure BarBarton—who was performing with Baryshnikov at the time — remembered that moment fondly: “She was just so flipping cool: unpretentious, honest, she kept it real, whether you were in her kitchen or in the theater.”

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Building Community No sooner had Vapnek closed the chapter on SUMMERDANCE did she begin considering a new residency model, one that granted choreographers uninterrupted time in the theater for the development of new work. She approached David Asbell—then executive director of the Lobero—who needed no convincing. “Are you kidding me,” he laughed. “Isn’t that why we’re in this business, to get the chance to make a real impact in the community and actually be involved in the creation of something new?” DANCEworks launched in 2009 with a streamlined focus: One choreographer, four-weeks, carte blanche, and public engagement. Sheila Caldwell recalled the thrill of putting it all into practice: “This was more than a performance series,” she explained. “Each residency had its own rhythm and unfolding story. Choreographers and dancers arrived at the Lobero with ideas, questions, and ambitions, often uncertain of where the work would lead. Over the course of a month, those fragments grew into stage-ready pieces.” Community engagement took on various forms, with Vapnek oftentimes opening up her home for informal artist exchanges or curated dance salons. When she rolled out a weekly, works-in-progress meet-up called Friday Club, the Lobero quickly became the hottest happy hour spot in town. “It was such a fabulous opportunity to engage the audience,” recalled Susan Alexander. “To watch the creation of these works as they developed, to listen to the choreographers and dancers in the Q&A sessions, and then to see the final product in performance.” Some of the DANCEworks choreographers explored connection even further, recruiting area talent to create pieces reflecting time and place. Caldwell laughed at the memory of having to source dozens of combat boots and securing permission slips for a politically charged piece during Mark Dendy’s unforgettable residency in 2014. “Lots of producers would’ve said no because it’s a headache to organize,” said Dendy. “It requires different rehearsals and different places. It requires scheduling, parental permission, and all kinds of things. Dianne just got that twinkle in her eyes and asked, ‘How can I help?’ That was always her question. What a wonderful place the world would be if everybody asked that question more often.” Another memorable exchange came in 2010, when choreographer Larry Keigwin descended on the city with a beach towel in hand to roll out Bolero, a cityspecific piece celebrating the American Riviera lifestyle and weaving dozens of Santa Barbara residents into a

tableau of color and delight. “I felt so vulnerable opening the show in a bathing suit on stage,” remembered Kate McMahon, a Bolero cast member. “But I knew I wanted to be a part of the magic that Dianne was creating. She was so open and exuberant, always looking to share her excitement for dance—the kind of dance that was electrifying, awe inspiring, and edge-of-your-seat exciting. By involving the community, Dianne brought a totally unique way to experience dance in Santa Barbara. Oh, the finale with the beach balls and everyone on stage was my favorite part. So much fun and joy!”

G IVE IC E I N PAR ADI SE ’S NEW Z AM B O N I A N AME AN D B E E N T E R E D FOR T H E C H AN C E TO WIN A R I DE O N T H E RES UR FAC E R AN D OTHER G R E AT P R I Z E S!

An Enduring Legacy It has been eight years since DANCEworks took its final bow, ending in much the same way that Vapnek’s dance experiment began over two decades earlier: Varone on the Lobero stage, squeezing the juices of inspiration dry until his art lay bare in a pulsating and literal heap of heaving bodies and fully expired emotion. Ask him, or any of the choreographers, how their time with Vapnek and in Santa Barbara impacted their work and lives, and the praise spills out with immediate enthusiasm. “I’ve never met another curator/presenter like Dianne,” said DANCEworks 2017 choreographer Kate Weare. “She was a humanist first; a woman who saw and cared for the people in the art. She didn’t feel like a producer, she felt like a friend.” Shannon Gillen, DANCEworks 2016 choreographer, remembered her experience vividly. “Dianne, the California landscape, the velvety interior of the Lobero, and the combustion of creative forces came together in this constellation of experience, this inexplicable opening of possibility for which I am truly changed and grateful. May dance and dance theater continue to be an elemental facet of the Santa Barbara cultural scene; in her honor and for all movement creatives striving to connect and test the limits.” On that final evening in 2018, when Varone’s performance gave way to a raucous party on the Lobero stage, the lifeforce of all that Vapnek had created hung in the air for a moment before bouncing off the proscenium and onto the dance floor. The deejay put on an ABBA song, and the first familiar lyrics filled the theater: “Ooh-ooh, you can dance, you can jive, having the time of your life.” I scanned the party to see where Vapnek might be and spotted her holding court in the center of the dance floor, her head thrown back in laughter as she twirled in the glow of accomplishment; n the dancing queen indeed.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO ENTER NOW OR VISIT independent.com/zambonicontest

Santa Barbara

1986

4O YEARS

2026

INDEPENDENT.COM AUGUST 27, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

SEPTEMBER 12 & 13 Saturday 10am – 5pm Sunday 10am – 4pm Earl Warren Showgrounds 3400 Calle Real, Santa Barbara

Buy your tickets online or at the door!

bit.ly/sbsgoaf

THIS WEEK IN ATHLETICS

MEN’S SOCCER VS M A R S H A L L : S H I E L D S U N G L ASS E S G I V E AWAY T H U R S | AU G 2 7 | 7 P M | H A R D E R STA D I U M MEN’S SOCCER VS U N I V E R S I T Y O F SA N D I E G O : FA N N Y PAC K G I V E AWAY M O N | AU G 3 1 | 7 P M | H A R D E R STA D I U M WO M E N ’ S VO L L E Y B A L L VS I O WA STAT E : S C H E D U L E P O ST E R G I V E AWAY THURS | SEPT 3 | 6 PM | THE THUNDERDOME WO M E N ’ S S O C C E R VS N O RT H DA KOTA : S C H E D U L E P O ST E R G I V E AWAY T H U R S | S E P T 3 | 7 P M | H A R D E R STA D I U M

@ G O G AU C H O S @ U C S B AT H L E T I C S U C S B G AU C H O S .C O M M T I C K E T S 30

THE INDEPENDENT

AUGUST 27, 2026

INDEPENDENT.COM

INDEPENDENT CALENDAR

aug. | SEPT.

27-2

the

BY TERRY ORTEGA

As always, find the complete listings online at independent.com/events. Submit virtual and in-person events at independent.com/eventsubmit.

8/27: Launch Pad 2026 Summer Reading Series Hear the reading of two new works: The Banana Factory by Julia Izumi investigates activism and questions how we protect children in this current world, and The Rink at the End of the World by Megan Tabaque, which features a club of athletes overtaken by measles, then replaced by crew of mall-rink skaters who head on to Croatia to compete. RSVP recommended. Banana: 4pm; Rink: 8pm. The New Vic, Ensemble Theatre Company, 33 W. Victoria St. Free. Email a_villegas@ucsb.edu. etcsb.org/production/launch-pad

Carpinteria: 800 block of Linden Ave., 2:30-6:30pm

FRIDAY 8/28

Montecito: 1100 and 1200 blocks of Coast Village Rd., 8-11:15am

Old Town S.B.: 500-600 blocks of State St., 3-6:30pm

SATURDAY

WEDNESDAY

Conjunto Prima-

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

COURTESY

vera, Los Cadetes 8/28: de Linares La Gran Noche Norteña presenta a Conjunto Primavera y a Los Cadetes de Linares en Santa Bárbara para una noche de actuaciones en directo con los clásicos de la música norteña y los temas favoritos del público. La Gran Noche Norteña presents Conjunto Primavera and Los Cadetes de Linares to S.B. for a night of classic live performances of norteño music and fan favorites. 8pm. Arlington Theatre, 1317 State St. $70-$204. Call (805) 963-9580.

Downtown S.B.: Corner of State and Carillo sts., 8am-1pm

8/27, 8/30:

SUNDAY

Goleta: Camino Real Marketplace, 10am-2pm

S.B. Bowl Fri.: An Evening with Diana Ross, 7pm. $66.50-$235.50.

Sun.: The Souls Constellation Tour,

TUESDAY

LA LOM, The Womack Sisters, 6pm. $46.50-$86.50. 1122 N. Milpas St. Call (805) 962-7411. sbbowl.com

8/27-8/28: The Grand on State Thu.: The Waymarkers Celtic Jazz, 7pm. $38. Fri.: Colin Richardson & The Grand

Solvang: Copenhagen Dr. and 1st St., 2:30-6:00pm

Band, 7:30pm. $38. 1218 State St. Email thegrandonstate@gmail.com.

thegrandonstate.com/events

8/28, 8/30: Carhartt Family Wines Fri.: Jayden Secor, 5pm. Sun.:

FISHERMAN’S MARKET

Bobby & Steve, 2pm. 2939 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. Free. Call (805) 693-5100.

SATURDAY

carharttfamilywines.com/eventscalendar

Rain or shine, meet local fishermen on the Harbor’s commercial pier, and buy fresh fish (filleted or whole), live crab, abalone, sea urchins, and more. 117 Harbor Wy., 6-11am. Call (805) 259-7476.

arlingtontheatresb.com

8/28: Carr Winery Barrel Room Sessions: Do No Harm Band. 414 N. Salsipuedes St., Santa Barbara. 7-9pm. Free. Call (805) 965-7985. Ages 21+.

cfsb.info/sat COURTESY

8/28: Speaker Series: Building a Living Museum: The Journey of the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum & Cultural Center James Bier will share the vision behind the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum & Cultural Center, his journey on becoming the museum’s director, and the story of the museum’s evolution from concept to one of California’s newest cultural destinations. 7-8:30pm. Buellton Library, 202 Dairyland Rd., Buellton. Free. Call (805) 688-3115. tinyurl.com/James-Bier COURTESY

Shows on Tap

FARMERS MARKET SCHEDULE

Family Movie 8/28: Night at Eastside Library: Lilo & Stitch Enjoy

popcorn and watch 2025’s Lilo & Stitch (rated PG), which follows an orphaned Hawaiian girl, Lilo, who is raised by her older sister, Nani, after the death of their parents, and her “dog” that is really Experiment 626, a genetically engineered extraterrestrial. 3-5pm. MLK Jr. Rm., Eastside Library, 1102 E. Montecito St. Free. Call (805) 963-3727. tinyurl.com/

Lilo-Stitch-Aug28

UCSB Arts & Lectures Presents: Misfits & Mixtapes: HairHair spray See this 2007 movie musical

8/28:

Hairspray (rated PG), which follows plus-sized teenager Tracy Turnblad in 1962 Baltimore whose dream is to dance on The Corny Collins Show. After winning a spot, she becomes a local star and uses her influence to campaign for the show’s racial integration. 8:30pm. Sunken Gardens, S.B. County Courthouse, 1100 Anacapa St. Free. Call (805) 893-3535.

artsandlectures.ucsb.edu

8/29: where attendees can step into their own Independent cover INDY40 Fest The community is invited to a block party

presented by Paradise Found, float between festival zones, and get exclusive INDY40 Fest T-shirts, hats, and posters (for purchase) with all-day music from Roll-N-Rock 805 and performances by Bradberri, East Valley Road, The Bad Neighbors, and student performers on the Vista Del Monte Community Stage. We will host journalism panels presented by Bluedot Institute as well as the Indy’s Reunion Lounge presented by Cottage Women’s Health to mix and mingle with current and former staff throughout the afternoon. Eat lunch from a neighboring restaurant and recharge at SBCC’s Community Rest Stop followed by fun at Royal Restoration’s Kids Zone. Celebrate 40 years of journalism from your paper of record. 11am-4pm. El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, 123 E. Canon Perdido St. Free. Call (805) 965-5205 or email promotions@ independent.com. tinyurl.com/40-INDY

PLEASE CONTACT THE VENUE TO CONFIRM HOURS AND EVENT CANCELLATIONS OR POSTPONEMENTS.

COURTESY

THURSDAY 8/27

carrwinery.com/events

8/28-8/29: Eos Lounge Fri.: Facu Baez, DJ. $6.18. Sat.: Family Sessions VI: E. King, Teej, Marshall Mimari, Valentina, McBreezy, Zach Baker. Free. 500 Anacapa St. 9pm. Ages 21+. Call (805) 564-2410.

Miss Ross sell. 5995 Stagecoach Rd. 1:30-4:30pm. Free. Call (805) 967-0066.

coldspringtavern.com

8/28-8/31, 9/2: SOhO Restaurant & Music Club Fri.: The Charities, The Cormorants, Sam Blasucci, 8:30pm. $18-$22. Ages 21+. Sat.: Me Sabor Presents: Salsa Night, 9pm. $20-$30. Ages 21+. Sun.: Your American Songbook Presents: Hello, Jerry! A Tribute Concert for Jerry Herman, noon. $20-$25; Mason Jennings, 7pm. $25-$30. Ages 21+. Mon.: Rick Holmstrom Band, Greg Leisz, 7pm. $18, $25. Wed.: Ardeshir Farah (of Strunz & Farah) & Luis Villegas, 7:30pm, $28, $35. 1221 State St. Call (805) 962-7776.

sohosb.com

8/29: The CrossHatch Winery Live music. 4-6pm. 111 E. Haley St. Free. Call (805) 691-9192 or email info@crosshatchwinery.com.

crosshatchwinery.com/events

eoslounge.com

8/29: Solvang Festival Theater

8/28-8/29: M.Special Brewing Co. (Goleta) Fri: Aliway. Sat.:

The Caverns Present: Led Zeppelin II, 7:30-10pm. 420 2nd Street, Solvang. $40-$50. Call (805) 686-1789x0.

Emerald Set Fire. 6860 Cortona Dr., Ste. C, Goleta. 7-9pm. Free. Call (805) 9686500. mspecialbrewco.com

8/28-8/29: M.Special Brewing IgniCo. (S.B.) Fri.: Loc Dawgs. Sat.: Igni tion. 634 State St. 8-10pm. Free. Call (805) 308-0050. mspecialbrewco.com 8/28-8/29: Maverick Saloon Fri.: 33 Thunder, 8:30-11:30pm. Sat.: Flannel 101, 9pm-midnight. 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez. 9pm-midnight. Call (805) 686-4785. Ages 21+.

mavericksaloon.com/ event-calendar

8/29: Zaca Mesa Winery Reggae in the Vines: Fully Fullwood, 2-7pm. 6905 Foxen Canyon Rd., Los Olivos. $35. Call (805) 688-9339 or email hospitality@zacamesa.com.. hospitality@zacamesa.com

tinyurl.com/Zaca-Mesa

8/30: Longoria Wines Live music, 3-5pm. 732 State St. Free. Email info@longoriawine.com. info@longoriawine.com

longoriawiines.com/events 8/30: Plaza del Mar Band Shell

8/28-8/29: Rooftop Bistro & Bar Fri.: Ace G & The Rising Seas. Sat.: Allie & The Swaphawks. 6878 Hollister Ave., Goleta. 4-8pm. Free. Call (805) 5625996. rooftopgoleta.com/

upcoming-events

8/29-8/30: Cold Spring Tavern Sat.: Paradise Kings. Sun.: Teresa RusVolunteer Opportunity

solvangtheaterfest.org/ show-listing

Fundraiser

Prime Time Band. 2-3pm. 131 Castillo St. Free. Call (805) 564-5418. parcsb.org/

events

8/31: The Red Piano Church on Monday: The Juan Dolor Band, 7:30pm. 519 State St. $5. Call (805) 358-1439.

theredpiano.com

Civil Discourse

Protest

INDEPENDENT.COM AUGUST 27, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

THE

8/29: Slingshot / Alpha Art Studio Presents: Slingshot Art Fest Join for art, music, fashion, and communitycollaboration featuring work from more than 20 Slingshot artists, +Koth, Dante Elephante, Alpha Thrift, and Rest Stop beverage service. 10am-4pm. S.B. Community Arts Workshop (SBCAW), 631 Garden St. Free. Email hello@sbcaw.org. sbcaw.org/upcoming

8/29: County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Open Houses Visitors can tour the EOC with emergency man-

8/30: Prime Time Band at the Band Shell This S.B.based ensemble of more than 60 local adult musicians who are community members ranging from lifelong musicians to those rediscovering their instruments later in life, the group brings the community together playing a variety of pop, classics, show tunes, and more. 1-2pm. Plaza del Mar Band Shell, 131 Castillo St. Free. Email primetimebandsb@gmail.com. tinyurl.com/

Prime-Time-Aug30

MONDAY 8/31 COURTESY

SATURDAY 8/29

agers who support the county during fires, storms, public safety incidents, and other emergencies. There will be disaster readiness information available, a kids’ activity area, and response equipment displays. 9am-noon. Office of Emergency Services, 4408 Cathedral Oaks Rd. Free. Email oem@countyofsb.org. tinyurl.com/

EOC-OpenHouse

8/29-8/30: S.B. Home and Garden: Lifestyle Expo Meet home improvement industry professionals who can help with repairs, enhancements and upgrades, learn about recycling, alternative energy and sustainable living options, and see hundreds of the latest home products. Sat.: 10am-5pm; Sun.: 10am-4pm. Free. Earl Warren Showgrounds, 3400 Calle Real. Email info@SB-Events.net. earlwarren.com

18/29: Go to Hale Quips & Clips: Music from The Vault — Hidden Treasures & Found Footage Hale Milgrim (former President/CEO of Capitol Records) and music lover/archivist Richard Salzberg (a k a“Music Maniac”) invite you to join them as they uncover and share inspired, spontaneous performances capturing raw, unfiltered artistry from a wide range of musicians. 6:50-8:50pm. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. Call (805) 963-0761. lobero.org

SUNDAY 8/30 8/30: Your American Songbook Presents: Hello, Jerry! A Tribute Concert for Jerry Herman Join 10 musical theatre performers as they honor Jerry Herman, the composer of Broadway musicals such as Hello, Dolly!; Mame; La Cage aux Folles; and more while you learn fascinating details about his work. 1pm. SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State St. $20-$25 (a $20 food purchase for lunch reservations). Call (805) 962-7776. sohosb.com Fri 8/28 8:30 PM

8/30: S.B. Chamber Players Presents Family Concert Fly Me to the Moon This concert will include an instrument

THE CHARITIES

WITH THE CORMORANTS & SAM BLASUCCI SOULDIES, FUNK, R&B

exploration station with an introduction to the orchestral instruments with a range of music selections from “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” to John Williams conducted by Michael Nowak and accompanied by images from the Hubble space telescope. 3-4pm. First Presbyterian Church, 21 E. Constance Ave. Free-$10. Email info@sbchamberplayers.org. sbchamberplayers.org

Sat 8/29 9:00 PM

ME SABOR PRESENTS SALSA NIGHT

Benefit Reading: 8/30: AKingSpecial of the Wild Frontier

Sun 8/30 12:00 PM

YOUR AMERICAN SONGBOOK PRESENTS:

Emmy Award–winning actor Joe Spano will give a special benefit reading of John Romano’s new play, King of the Wild Frontier, a funny, suspenseful, and deeply moving meditation on family, faith, organized crime, and the moral choices that shape a life against the backdrop of a New Jersey country club in the 1960s. Stay for a Q&A after the performance. 2pm. The New Vic, Ensemble Theatre Company, 33 W. Victoria St. GA: $50; VIP: $100. Call (805) 965-5400 or email boxoffice@etcsb.org. tinyurl.com/King-Frontier

HELLO, JERRY!

A TRIBUTE CONCERT FOR JERRY HERMAN Sun 8/30 7:00 PM

MASON JENNINGS Mon 8/31 6:00 PM

RICK HOLMSTROM BAND

COURTESY

WITH SPECIAL GUEST GREG LEISZ Wed 9/2 6:30 PM

ARDESHIR FARAH (OF STRUNZ & FARAH)

& LUIS VILLEGAS WORLD JAZZ GUITAR

FOR OUR FULL LINEUP, PLEASE VISIT

SOHOSB.COM

1221 STATE STREET • 962-7776 32

THE INDEPENDENT

AUGUST 27, 2026

INDEPENDENT.COM

Families ACT! Candlelight Vigil — 8/31: International Overdose Awareness Day Everyone is invited to this compassionate, judgment-

free space to acknowledge the grief of family and friends left behind, remember loved ones lost to overdose, and bring localized awareness to a global public health crisis. There will be opening remarks, keynote speaker Wayne Mellinger, and the vigil hosted by Scott Claasen. 7:30-8:30pm. Sunken Gardens, S.B. County Courthouse, 1100 Anacapa St. Free. Email info@familiesact.org. tinyurl.com/OAD-Vigil

8/31: Rick Holmstrom Band, Greg Leisz at SOhO American rhythm and blues guitarist and singer/songwriter Rick Holmstrom will bring his blues, funk, roots and soul sound and his 40 years of experience to S.B. with legendary L.A. steel player Greg Leisz to open the show. 7pm. SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State St. $18-$25. Call (805) 962-7776. sohosb.com

TUESDAY 9/1 9/1: Estate Planning for Seniors: For Peace of Mind Join Trusts and Estates Attorney Ruben Lopez for an easy-tounderstand presentation about protecting your wishes, planning, and avoiding costly estate planning risks. 10-11:15am. Grace Fisher Foundation Inclusive Arts Clubhouse, 21 S. Hope Ave., Unit F118. Free. Call (805) 637-8932. yoursbteam.com/Events

WEDNESDAY 9/2 9/2: Tiles on Deck – Mah Jongg at the Maritime Museum Players of all skill levels are welcome, making it a fun event for seasoned mah jongg enthusiasts and those newer to the game. No quarters are needed, and prizes will be awarded after each round of play. Proceeds from the event will benefit the museum’s exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement efforts. 11am-3pm. S.B. Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Ste. 190. $125. Call (805) 962-8404. sbmm.org/

santa-barbara-events

Roundtable Addressing 9/2: Expert Food Insecurity Join the Women’s

Fund of S.B. for our Grants in Action Expert Roundtable on the growing crisis of food insecurity in S.B. County. Experts will explore the economic, social, and health impacts of food insecurity and why so many struggle to access nutritious food. After the program, meet informally with the speakers to continue the conversation. 5:30-7pm. The New Vic, Ensemble Theatre Company, 33 W. Victoria St. Free. (805) 303-1205 or email info@womensfundsb.org. womensfundsb.org/events

Aug.-Sept.

27-2

COURTESY

ANIMAL HAPPENINGS! City Kennel Club: 8/29: Channel Wag, Play & Title Day

All breeds and ages are welcome to earn AKC titles in categories AKC Trick Dog, Canine Good Citizen, and Temperament Tests, plus Rally demos and a chance to try it with your dog. There will be an obedience demo, and more. 10am-2pm. Community Covenant Church, 5070 Cathedral Oaks Rd. Free. Email cckcdogs@gmail.com. tinyurl.com/

WHAT’S POPPIN’?

Wag-Play

8/29: Paws & Pours: A Night for the Animals Indulge in an elevated night of fine wine, exceptional cuisine, and meaningful impact. Sip and savor selections from premier local wineries, enjoy a curated dining experience, and take part in an exciting silent and live auction. Proceeds will support the lifesaving work of S.Y.V. Humane, from low-cost spay and neuter services and affordable vaccines to adoptions, training, and critical community outreach. 5:15-10pm. Vega Vineyard & Farm, 496 Santa Rosa Rd., Buellton. $150. Call (805) 688-2415. tinyurl.com/SYV-Paws-Pours

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8/29: Traci Lynn’s Consignment Boutique and Valley Artists Vintage Makers Market Shop for exotic plants, vintage Hawaiian items, jewelry, clothes, handcrafted items from area artisans, and more. A portion of the vendor fees will go to the S.Y.V. Humane Society. 10am-3pm. Traci Lynn’s Consignment Boutique, 240 E. Hwy. 246, Ste. 103B. Free. Call (805) 686-0348. tinyurl.com/

(877) 552-3004

Vintage-Makers

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8/29: The House of Beau Presents Relics & Rarities: A Vintage & Antique Market Shop from curated vendors specializing in antiques, vintage finds, collectibles, art, books, jewelry, architectural salvage, home décor, curiosities, and one-of-a-kind treasures. Meet passionate collectors and enjoy a glass of wine (for purchase) in support of NatureTrack Foundation that connects people of all abilities with outdoor education and exploration. 9am-3pm. The House of Beau, 1129A State St. Free. Email tiffany@frombeau.com. frombeau.com/events

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INDEPENDENT.COM AUGUST 27, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

We’re Planning

A HUGE PARTY & YOU’RE IN INV V ITED! INVITED! Join Us in Celebrating the Independent ’s 40th Anniversary!

SATURDAY AUGUST 29 11AM - 4PM

Presidio Parade Grounds & Chapel • Family fun for all ages • Santa Barbara

1986

4O YEARS

2026

Pit Stops Lobero Theatre • 33 E. Canon Perdido

Paloma • 702 Anacapa St.

• 20% off tickets to Go To Hale: Music From The Vault Hidden Treasures & Found Footage. • Use promo code INDY40 or visit box office (while tickets last)

Dine-in-only special for all festivalgoers, a Ham & Cheese Sando + Mimosa for $20. Must mention Indy40 Fest. Available during brunch 10:30am - 2pm only.

Cheese Shop Santa Barbara • 827 Santa Barbara St.

Lilac Pâtisserie • 1017 E. State St.

DJ FREW plays live from 2pm - 4pm with samples of Manchego with Membrillo during that time.

$5 off our lunch combination to attendees (until 3pm close)

Grassini Family Vineyards • 24 El Paseo

Frequency Wines • 804 Anacapa St.

Two for One Tastings

Special flight of wines with $5 from each flight going to Mickey Flacks Journalism Fund

Santa Barbara Historical Museum • 136 E. De la Guerra

Opal • 1325 State Street

Finding Santa Barbara (Free Admission)

After the Fest (opens at 5pm) get a discount on an appetizer.

Loubud • 20 El Paseo Indy40 Puzzle and 2pm Sabering Demonstration

Paradise Found • 17 E. Anapamu St. Play the Magic Eight Ball Paper Fortune Teller game at Paradise Found from 1-4pm. Win a prize with any purchase!

SNAP. SHARE. WIN!

Prior Independent Offices

Snap a picture in front of all the Independent’s old offices. Share on Instagram using #indy40fest and tag @sbindependent. Each photo is one entry for the chance to win an exclusive INDY40 Fest hat and poster!

607 State Street • 1221 State Street 122 W. Figueroa St. • 12 E. Figueroa St. 1715 State Street • 223 E. De la Guerra

KEY Free Parking @ S.B. Unified School District

Pit Stop Prior Independent Office

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1:00PM INDY ORIGINALS

Nick Welsh & Marianne Partridge Moderated by Matt Kettmann

Joe Woodard, Tanya Spears Guiliacci, Camille Cimini Fruin, Martha Sadler Moderated by Tyler Hayden

1:45-2:45PM EAST VALLEY ROAD

2:00PM THE FUTURE OF OUR NEWS

3:00-4:00PM THE BAD NEIGHBORS

Callie Fausey, Elaine Sanders, Maya Johnson, Christina McDermott

Moderated by Ryan P. Cruz

THANK YOU TO OUR

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INTERACT WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS AT THE FEST State of Mind Café, Library on the Go Van, S.B. Half Marathon, City of S.B. Sustainability, League of Women Voters, One Thread Collective, S.B. County Action Network, S.B. High School Alumni Assoc., UCSB Alumni Assoc.

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DANCE WITH THE DISCOGRAPHY OF THEE SACRED SOULS SMOOTH GROOVES COME TO THE SANTA BARBARA BOWL WITH FELLOW SOUL TRIOS LA LOM AND THE WOMACK SISTERS

PAGE 35

by Richelle Boyd

MOTOWN LEGENDS JOIN ONE805LIVE! LINEUP COURTESY

et ready to descend into a new kind of smooth groove at the Santa Barbara Bowl. Thee Sacred Souls are cruising into town later this month with a soul-fused show under the stars for their Constellation Tour. Joining them are friends LA LOM, another soulbending trio from California, as well as The Womack Sisters, who are continuing on the legacy of Sam Cooke, Womack & Womack, and Bobby Womack (their grandfather, parents, and uncle, respectively). These three trios will light up our stage on Sunday, August 30. Whether you’re a longtime fan like myself or this show is serving as your first introduction to the group, you’re in for a night of unforgettable vocals and effusive storytelling. Thee Sacred Souls emerged from San Diego in 2020 with the label Daptone Records helping to bring their sonic sounds to life. Their music is fused with undertones of R&B, delta blues, reggae, Jamaican rocksteady, girl-group pop, and more — but, as drummer Alex Garcia puts it, “it all ends up sounding somewhat like soul music.” But this is no cover-esque band creating oldies. Thee Sacred Souls offer up a completely unique and new sound and feel with their music—something that lives and breathes in today’s space and speaks to the listener’s soul. “I feel the thing you create becomes your own voice and becomes unique when you can kind of tune out of everything and find the way you write songs,” Garcia said, speaking with me on the phone before one of his shows. “It’s not so much trying to copy or fit into a certain sound or genre.” And for this tour, Garcia—whose core bandmates include bassist Sal Samano, and singer Josh Lane—says they’re going all out with a full band accompanying them. Adding to this impactful sound sweeping the stage, they pour a beautiful blend of imagination, personal stories and emotions, and truthful accounts from today into every song. Each performance is an exploration of their discography, using the audience to “play looser and just feed off the energy,” so at times Garcia ends up “surprising [himself] and trying new things on stage.” For Garcia and bandmates Sal Samano (guitar) and Josh Lane (vocals), there is a constant creative flow of music, even on tour. “Even right now, I have a guitar with me and I’m still finalizing tunes and trying to

GABE ROTH

L I F E

The Temptations

by Tiana Molony

signature sonic sound given to the label’s artists. The other trio on the bill, LA LOM, consists of Los Angeles natives Zac Sokolow (guitar), Jake Faulkner (bass), and Nicholas Baker (drums/percussion), whose instrumental music will transport you to the heart of L.A. Since 2022, this trio has refined their sound to mix Mexican, Cuban, and Peruvian music traditions with elements of soul, jazz, and rock to rumble listeners into a distinct California groove and sound. It’s an all-night soul-filled fest you won’t want to miss. As Thee Sacred Souls continue their trail to Santa Barbara with this stellar soul lineup, Garcia reflected on all the traveling they had done. “It’s something to be grateful for, being able to see the world and play music and meet different people from different cultures,” Garcia said. “It just makes it surreal to see people around the world singing songs that you made in your garage.”

One805Live! is getting a little more soulful. The annual benefit concert has added Motown legends The Temptations, and The Four Tops to its already packed lineup, with the groups set to share the stage Friday, September 25, at Kevin Costner’s oceanside Field of Dreams in Montecito. The High Kings have also joined the bill for Saturday, September 26. The Friday night pairing marks a rare reunion for the two iconic groups, who last shared a Santa Barbara County stage in 1984. More than four decades later, concertgoers can expect a night of classic Motown, with The Temptations bringing hits including “My Girl” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,”while The Four Tops are known for such enduring favorites as “Reach Out I’ll Be There”and “I Can’t Help Myself.” The additions join previously announced Friday performers George Thorogood and Alan Parsons, as well as a Saturday lineup featuring Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Slightly Stoopid, The Fray, and Kevin Costner & Modern West. Irish folk group The High Kings round out Saturday’s bill. Costner, who hosts the two-day event at his coastal property, will also take the stage Saturday with Modern West. Now in its expanded two-day format, One805Live! brings together a broad mix of rock, pop, soul, and folk music while raising money for Santa Barbara County first responders. Proceeds benefit the One805 Endowment Fund, which provides ongoing support for the mental health, wellness, and safety of local law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. For those looking to make a weekend of it, One805 is also offering a range of VIP experiences, including shared cabanas, reserved tables, and more exclusive accommodations with oceanfront views and access to premium food, drinks, and the VIP dance floor.

Thee Sacred Souls performs at the Santa Barbara Bowl (1122 N. Milpas St.) Sunday, August 30, 6 p.m. Tickets are still available at sbbowl.com.

One805Live! takes place September 25-26 at Kevin Costner’s Field of Dreams in Montecito. For more information, see one805.org.

Thee Sacred Souls

work out new stuff,” Garcia said. Having been on the road and fitting in performances since 2022, a lot of their recent music has been shaped and crafted between shows and short breaks. But Garcia mentioned that this tour isn’t just about honing their craft, it’s about enjoying their experience. For Thee Sacred Souls, getting to listen to and enjoy their opening acts before a show has made the experience that much better. “It makes it more interesting, especially for us to actually enjoy watching the people that open,” Garcia explained. “Every show’s been great being able to watch our friends play live. It kind of makes you play better.” One opener, The Womack Sisters (BG, Zeimani, and Kucha), descend from soul music royalty. The three grew up on tour with their parents Cecil and Linda, and this lifelong study of music has gifted them their own unique sound and talents. They sing the soul of today, pulling on real life experiences and modern-day struggles to build the experience of their music, making their rich harmonies that much sweeter. This trio shares the label Daptone Records with Thee Sacred Souls and crafts their music in the

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PLAY IN BRONZE

KATY PERRY’S THE LIFETIMES TOUR— TOUR —LIVE LIVE FROM PARIS COMES TO CINEMAS WORLDWIDE

SUSAN READ CRONIN TRANSFORMS METAL INTO PLAYFUL STORIES

by Kat Sophia

CYNTHIA PARKHURST

FEATURING BONUS BEHIND-THE-SCENES FOOTAGE, THE FILM IS COMING TO IMAX AND ADDITIONAL SCREENS ollowing its acclaimed world premiere at the 2026 Tribeca Festival, Katy Perry: The Lifetimes Tour — Live from Paris will be released to cinemas and IMAX globally for a limited time beginning Wednesday, September 2. The film will be coming to 70 countries (including the U.S., U.K., Brazil, Mexico, Germany, France, and Australia) and will offer fans an immersive concert experience, complete with exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content. The biggest-selling female artist in the company’s history, Perry, who grew up in Santa Barbara and still has a home here, made her debut with Capitol Records in 2008 with One of the Boys, boasting infectious pop hooks, a bold, colorful fashion style, and unabashed lyrics. Since Katy Perry in concert, April 26, 2025 then, she has amassed more than 125 billion streams across platforms and has breaking career, including global anthems sold more than 70 million albums world- such as “Teenage Dream,” “California wide. Perry is one of only 12 artists in his- Gurls,” “Dark Horse,” “Roar,” and “Firetory to have surpassed 100 million certified work.” Perry also performs a more recent units with their solo single releases, and is fan favorite, “The One That Got Away,” the first-ever Capitol Records recording which experienced a massive resurgence artist to have 10 million RIAA-certified in 2026. The song entered the Top 10 on units for a single in 2015. Perry was the first Spotify’s Global Top 50 chart, and Perry artist in RIAA history to earn three RIAA reached a new peak of more than 91 milDiamond singles for “Firework,” “Dark lion monthly listeners. Because of this, Horse,” and “Roar.” “California Gurls” Perry became the platform’s sixth most(feat. Snoop Dogg), “ET,” and “Teenage streamed female artist. Dream” (both the single and the album) The tour was also able to raise significant have now since gone diamond as well. funds for charitable causes, including the Perry’s 2025 The Lifetimes Tour cele- U.K.’s Music Venue Trust and Perry’s very brated the success of her hugely impactful own Firework Foundation, whose mission career, and reached more than one million is to empower children from underserved fans across 91 shows in 23 countries, gener- communities by encouraging and providating more than $134 million in gross ticket ing support to those with a passion for the sales. The 132-minute film captured two arts. sold-out nights of the The Lifetimes Tour in A music film that will delight both Paris during November 2025 on an impres- casual listeners and super fans alike, Katy sive 60-camera setup that moves above, Perry: The Lifetimes Tour — Live from Paris around, and through the show. Audiences showcases the highlights of Perry’s music will feel like they are directly in the center career and celebrates the cultural impact of of the action as Perry performs airborne one of this generation’s defining pop acts. choreography, flying across the venue The film begins its limited theatrical run on September while singing some of her greatest hits. Directed by Paul Dugdale, the film 2. See katyperryconcertfilm.com for showtimes. See features a set list spanning Perry’s record- bit.ly/3SJiKYX to view the trailer.

COURTESY

by Tiana Molony

t begins with a clay model of the sculpture — the original form from which everything else is made. A mold is then created around the clay piece. Once the mold is opened, the clay model is removed, leaving behind a hollow negative of the sculpture. Hot wax is poured into the mold to create a wax replica, which is then repeatedly dipped into a ceramic slurry to build a hard shell. The shell, with the wax still inside, is placed in a kiln, where the wax melts away. Molten bronze is then Susan Read Cronin with some of her bronze works poured into the heated shell. After the bronze cools, the ceramic shell rative and mischief. A work titled “I Will Be is broken away, the metal is cleaned and fin- a Good Bear” features a bear in a dunce cap, ished, and the sculpture is patinated. Finally, paired with a chalkboard densely filled with the piece is coated in wax to help preserve the line “I will be a good bear” written over its finish. and over, like a visual joke about discipline This is the bronze-casting process, a and misbehavior. The bear sits on a turnlong and arduous journey, as explained by table so viewers—or perhaps an imaginary sculptor Susan Read Cronin, whose newest teacher—can rotate him “into the corner” exhibit, Play: Bronze Sculptures and Other or back out again. Before she became known for her imagiStuff, on view through November 29 at the native bronze sculptures, Cronin ran a mail Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, includes a order business creating animal play suits for brief explanation of the technique alongside a carefully curated selection of her bronze children—cats, mice, pandas, penguins, rabworks. bits—designed not as oneoff costumes, but Fittingly titled Play, the exhibition brings as everyday outfits kids could live and play in. together whimsical, thought-provoking When she sold that business and turned bronze sculptures, poems, and mixed-media to clay modeling and sculpture in the early works, all rooted in Cronin’s belief that play 1990s, she realized she hadn’t really left that means reconnecting with one’s childlike world behind. self, free from the obligations and routines “I realized I was still working with cat, of adulthood. Through her sculptures, she mouse, panda—different animals—but now hopes to offer something radically simple: they were frozen in time rather than in soft permission to play. velour,” she explained. “These scenes just kept “Play is a big part of my world,” she shared. emerging.” For Cronin, play is not limited to objects. “My feeling is that there should be more play During the pandemic, she began taking her in the world.” One of the most distinctive groupings lifelong habit of writing poetry more serion display is Cronin’s “Ooffs”— a series of ously, eventually publishing three books bronze “book collection” eggs whose very of her poems, several of which are woven name is a pun on the French word œuf (egg). directly into the exhibit. Each egg is mounted in a shadow box, comThe poems are not solemn meditations, plete with mock-museum labels describing but witty, language-driven pieces that mirtheir imagined “habitat” and “call,” as if they ror the humor in her sculptures. One poem, were rare birds in a natural history gallery. “Left,” is a looping tongue twister about noses Their names are as playful as their forms: on the left and right, and the confusion that “The gorgeous reticulated fish eater,” “The ensues when one “leaves.” great northern matrix,” “The detached sickleCronin hopes visitors leave the exhibit beaked hornberry pie eater,” and so on. having “thought about something in a difNearby, a cluster of bronze ladders ferent way,” she said, “or they’ve just engaged explores Cronin’s love of negative space. The in a way that maybe they hadn’t done in a ladders, which started out tiny and grew to long time.” her exact height in later pieces, play with scale Play: Bronze Sculptures and Other Stuff by Susan Read and absence as much as with form. “I love negative space,” she said. “Ladders Cronin will be on view through November 29 at the Santa and springs have this space in them. I love to Barbara Maritime Museum (113 Harbor Wy.). The exhibit is included with museum admission (free for SBMM see what doesn’t exist as well as what does.” members). For more information, see sbmm.org. Some sculptures extend that sense of nar-

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AN EXPLORATION OF EXISTENCE WITH TOM PAZDERKA ARTIST’S ALL THAT REMAINS EXHIBITION AT SANTA MARIA’S ALLAN HANCOCK COLLEGE

orking from photographs of family members and natural disasters, Tom Pazderka creates ash paintings that explore loss and the precariousness of existence. Based in Ojai, he has exhibited internationally for the past 20 years and is a featured artist with RubensteinContemporary. I recently interviewed Tom in anticipation of his solo exhibition, All That Remains, at the Foxworthy Gallery at Allan Hancock College, on view from August 24 to October 2.

it more as a point of departure for questioning the dynamic of who I am. The word immigrant carries so much, but I’d never really thought of myself that way. The label immigrant gets imposed on you. I’m a naturalized citizen now, but for years I had a green card that literally identified me as a “legal alien.” That’s your status. So, the family album isn’t simply an exploration of my family’s history. I know my family’s history isn’t that interesting to everyone else. What it opens up are larger questions: Who are you? How are you perceived by others?

COURTESY PHOTOS

by Elizabeth Russell, Ann Foxworthy Gallery Co-Director at Allan Hancock College

You’ve been painting with ash for about 10 years. I’m curious how that opened new possibilities. There was a period when I got deeply into plant alchemy. I was really interested in it as a practice that brings together the practical with the abstract. The ash is a bit of a holdover from that time. I was studying what ash is, what it means, and its constituent parts—what it is physically and what it is abstractly or symbolically. You get a sense of your physical process when viewing your paintings. You see drips running down the burned surface; you see gradations of gray ash and pigment. My interest Tom Pazderka in his studio has always been how to make something that is not only materially interesting but conceptually engaging. scious or the repressed, something that’s always inherent or The Nostalgie series became an exploration of material and latent in nature, suddenly coming to the surface. its theoretical underpinnings. The first ash cloud paintings were, for all intents and purposes, an aesthetic experience. What drives you to make work that engages with catastrophe? You Once you see overwhelming natural phenomena, they have could think of what I do as aestheticizing disaster. If you’re in a powerful visual impact. the middle of a disaster, you’re not having an aesthetic experiI’ve been through plenty of natural disasters, close calls of ence; you’re having a disaster experience. all sorts. On a symbolic level, I relate to disaster through the For someone to understand something at a deeper level, the aesthetic experience has to come first so deeper analysis nature of entropy. The overt destruction you see in nature feels a bit like what psychoanalysis describes as the uncon- can begin. I experienced the ash clouds at a distance. By aestheticizing it, even a little, I’m creating a doorway into the experience. You seem to approach your painting practice as an artist-observer, which is connected to a long tradition of making sense of the world through aesthetic experience. In the Family Album series, you use your family photos as an entry point to explore identity. Why did you repaint them? There are a number of reasons. Some are conscious, and others are subconscious. I would spend hours looking at them, partly because there are only so many. You don’t have this huge amount of photos that follow these people day by day, month by month, year by year. Instead, you have one snapshot from 1965, and then another from 1973. I also think timing had a lot to do with it. I started the series in 2018, which was the year my mother moved back to Europe, to the Czech Republic. She had lived here since the early 1990s. At the time, I didn’t consciously connect those events, even though I had been looking at our family photographs for years. I’d never really felt compelled to paint them until then. Looking back, I think it marked a transformation. It made me think about what it meant to be an immigrant, here with the family and on the cusp of starting something new, and then what it means when it ends. So, with your mother’s move, did that experience of being on the cusp of something new feel like it ended for you as well? I see

“Nostalgie XXV” by Tom Pazderka

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AUGUST 27, 2026

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“Mother and Child” depicts you being held intimately by your mother, and it’s reminiscent of historic depictions of the Madonna of Tenderness. The images of my mother and me are complicated, as they often are. There was something about the way the photograph was framed, and about her expression and my expression. It reminded me of Renaissance art. It struck me that someone took this photograph in the 1980s and basically recreated an archetype on film. It’s also about connecting to a larger narrative—the broader symbolism of painting itself. Through my work, I want to feel connected to the history of art in that expanded sense. At the same time, it’s a way of connecting with my own family and my background. What’s interesting is that the cheeks aren’t touching. I feel like that’s strangely symbolic. In many ways, we’re not actually connected anymore. My mother is in Europe, and I’m here. Talk about the rose window, which appears in both the Family Album and Nostalgie series. I was deeply affected by the Gothic architecture of Central Europe and all these places with their severe, angular architecture, the stories surrounding them, and the heavy history. I spent much of my childhood running away from certain things, and then my adolescence and adulthood reconciling that. The Gothic window has become a symbol for that. The rose window is actually rooted in the organic world—nature channeled through human aesthetics. It also appears with the ash clouds. If you really look at how clouds form, they follow many of the same principles as rose windows. I’ve read a lot about how nature operates mathematically, and those patterns exist everywhere. There is a haunting quality to your painting, and the subjects, whether ash clouds or family, seem to exist in a transient state. Is that an intentional visual strategy? They’re kind of like ghosts. Some of the paintings I’ve made are almost purposefully done that way. Part of it is simply aesthetic. But it’s also because I understand the entire scope of the world and human existence as essentially transient. On the scale of geological time, we’re here for just a split second, and then we’re gone. Understanding that, I think, is part of confronting your own mortality. In some ways, that’s the narrative behind the work, because the only way you’re really going to come to terms with your own mortality is through your own personal experience with it. The goal was always to make something visually engaging that also offers a way into difficult subject matter. All That Remains is on view August 24–October 2, at the Ann Foxworthy Gallery, Allan Hancock College (800 S. College Dr., Santa Maria). An Artist Talk & Reception will be held on Wednesday, September 2, 4-7 p.m. See hancock college.edu/gallery.

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SHTETL HOME COMPANION PRESENTS

COURTESY

NIGHTS IN SMYRNA by Maggie Yates

htetl Home Companion (SHC), one of Santa Barbara’s most unique performance outfits, presents a brand-new musical/theatrical production, Nights in Smyrna. The show continues SHC’s tradition of vintage radio-drama style storytelling with live musical accompaniment. This original story, by Shtetl Home’s Fred Nadis, plays against a soundtrack of Sephardic music from the last several centuries. Nights in Smyrna is a one-night engagement, running September 5 at La Cumbre Plaza’s Fine Line Gallery. The play takes place in early 20th-century Smyrna, a bustling port city in pre-WWI Turkey. This Ottoman–Empire trading center had a multicultural population of Turks, Greeks, Armenians, and assorted Europeans. “In Smyrna of 1910,” says actor and musician Andrea Fishman, “all of these different communities were living together, doing business together, hanging out together, and making music together.” Smyrna was also home to a population of Sephardic Jews, who migrated to the area after being expelled from the Iberian Peninsula in the 15th century. “They brought with them their language,” Fishman

Flor de Kanela

says. “Sephardic folk songs and oral tradition songs that had been passed down for generations and generations.” Nights in Smyrna is a coming-of-age story that follows a young man who meets and falls in love with a nightclub singer (played by Fishman) while working in his family’s tavern. The plot, say Fishman and Nadis, is inspired by the Sephardic Ladino (old JudeoSpanish) tavern songs audiences will hear in the show. “Some of these songs go back hundreds of years,” says Nadis, describing relatable themes like the joys of drinking and the devastation of lost love. The music is played by Flor de Kanela, an acoustic ensemble that specializes in Sephardic music. See the show at 6 p.m. on September 5. Seating is limited and on a first-come-first-serve basis. Tickets are $20 dollars at the door. See lcccasb.com/fine-line-gallery.

TOMATO THEATRE COMPANY BRINGS

COURTESY

AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE TRAINING TO KIDS by Maggie Yates

n education in the arts, while exceedingly beneficial, can be prohibitively expensive. There are plenty of excellent pay-to-play youth programs for artistically ambitious children in Santa Barbara, but a group of local high school students have made it their mission to bring affordable performance training to S.B. kids. Called Tomato Theatre Company, this nonprofit, started in 2022, is run entirely by high schoolers. They offer free seasonal programming, including an annual summer camp, for children (grades 1-6) interested in theater and choir. Abby Selzler is a student at Dos Pueblos High School and Tomato Theatre Company’s secretary. “We’re keeping everything affordable and accessible,” she says, citing the barrier of high-cost programming that kept members of her cohort from an arts education during their formative years. “A lot of us got started late. This program is helping raise the next group of kids like me—and maybe it’ll be easier for them because they started earlier.” Selzler praises the generational continuation built into Tomato’s social structure, noting that many students who age out of the program come back in junior high as camp counselor trainees, and then join the program as volunteers once they enter high

Campers enjoy a recent Tomato Theatre workshop.

school. While many of the students currently involved are from Dos Pueblos, Tomato invites students from every local school to become involved—the organization offers plenty of opportunities for teaching, performance design, writing, outreach, and management. This fall, Tomato will present a multidisciplinary showcase for elementary-school kids looking to advance and share their skills in singing, dancing, acting, and other performance-based artforms. This “Jamboree” program consists of weekly rehearsals leading up to the late-fall performance. Email the company (sbtomatotheatre@gmail.com) to register young thespians or chanteurs for the program and secure their place in this community performance. See tomatotheatreco.org.

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Drag Kings from Beyond Let Your Sci-Fi Show Delights Pride Shine Crowd of Earthlings

s the last rays of red sun dipped below nearby buildings, a figure clad in tall black boots and metal shoulder pads strode forward on a protruding stage in a crowded courtyard. The drag king lip-synced to audio from the sci-fi classic Plan 9 from Outer Space. To the sound LA King Spacee Kadet of electric guitar, the man dramatically donned a January. The pair put on their first show in May, and last helmet with two shiny wires protruding as the audience cheered. It was Mister Frankie Sister, here to welcome weekend’s event (which fell on the same day as the Pacific 200 or so earthlings to SBCAST for a Night on Kliteron IX. Pride Festival), came about after he saw a documentary So began Santa Barbara’s second drag king show of on an alien cult. The campy vibes were too good to pass the year. Over the next hour, seven kings gave us space up, he said. Sister said that he and Bright Evan intentionally kept the explorers, sexy aliens, and the man in the moon. Galactic animations and sci-fi imagery, created by video artist Ariel show off of social media to keep an “underground” vibe, Leira, splashed across a nearby wall. Rest Stop, a pop-up true to how kings operated in decades past. The show had a inspired by historic lesbian and feminist queer spaces, sliding scale cost of entry, and Mister Sister said they don’t turn away folks who can’t pay. “Our hope is to create a safe, served refreshments. Mr. Sister said that he and co-producer Moxie Bright queer space in Santa Barbara for the drag king art,” he said. n Evan began discussing plans for an all-king show in

Pacific Pride Festival Makes a Splash on the Waterfront by Ingrid Bostrom INGRID BOSTROM

by Christina McDermott

Community ELAINE SANDERS

Art with Heart Slingshot’s Annual Event Features Work by Artists with Disabilities by Ryan P. Cruz

n a quiet weekday morning, artists are milling around Slingshot/Alpha Art Studio, intently gathering materials and beginning the day’s work in the sun-drenched studio space near the busy intersection of Mission and De la Vina streets. The nonprofit studio is home base for more than 35 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), each of whom have come into their own by working with the passionate staff. The artists are putting the final touches on their pieces for Slingshot’s annual ArtFest, which will be held at the Community Arts Workshop (631 Garden Street) on Saturday, August 29. The annual event will showcase artwork made over the past year, with 250 drawings and mixedmedia works, more than 100 ceramic sculptures, and more than 50 “up-cycled” pieces of clothing, including handpainted, embroidered, and screen-printed items made using donations from Slingshot’s partner organization

Slingshot/Alpha Art Studio

Alpha Resource Center. Slingshot Gallery Director Jessica Schlobohm says the ArtFest gives participants the opportunity to “put their art into the community, sell their work, and meet other artists and creators.” It’s one of the many ways Slingshot helps those with disabilities engage with the community, allowing them to “see the value in their art and contributions,” Schlobohm says. The program takes cues from similar progressive nonprofits, such as the Creative Growth Center in Oakland. Since opening in 2013, Slingshot has offered materials, training, and studio space with the support of grant funding, private donors, and community events. “Art is inherently accessible, and as the work they create breaks down their barriers, art becomes a means of connecting,” Schlobohm says. “We’ve seen that development happen here in the studio. To see them blossom as artists and people is great.” n

2026 Pacific Pride Festival

egal rows of palm trees towered over Chase Palm Park as festivalgoers stood tall beneath them, embodying this year’s Pacific Pride Festival theme: “Out. Proud. Unstoppable.” LGBTQIA+ joy, allyship, dazzling outfits, and late-summer skies shone bright. “Today symbolizes empowerment in our community,” said Pacific Pride Foundation Executive Director Julio C. Roman. He described the event as “a celebration of the partnerships that we have with community members and organizations” that support the foundation’s advocacy work. Representatives from approximately 60 organizations gathered to share resources, build connections, and spread love. Among them was Free Mom Hugs, offering hugs and support in recognition that some LGBTQIA+ folks may not receive that affirmation from their families. Trinity Episcopal Church invited attendees into conversation with a large sign reading, “Tell us your religion story.” At a collaborative station hosted by the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, people wove strips of fabric into a growing, interconnected textile. Beyond the conversations and activities, festivalgoers let their hair down, dancing to rotating artists on stage and socializing in the beer garden. For a day, the park transformed into a vibrant celebration of the unstoppable momentum that authenticity and inclusion can create. n

INDEPENDENT.COM AUGUST 27, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

Indy 40th

Former Sports Illustrated Editor Found a Home on Our Pages Back in 1993 by Jim Buckley Well, until 1993, there was no sports department at the still-pretty-new Independent. Then I showed up. My wife, Patty Kelley, had been smart and lucky enough to get a job as a designer at a travel magazine (since passed on) called Islands. So, we left New York City and headed to Paradise. At the time, I was an editor at Sports Illustrated, but we knew that the Left Coast would probably be a better place for our eventual family. And I figured I could pick up freelance writing stuff. That was possible in 1993. Sigh. Folks I knew in N.Y.C. told me that when I landed, I had to get in touch with Marianne Partridge. She had been a big cheese in the Big Apple, running the Village Voice and Rolling Stone at various times. And she, of course, was the founding editor of the lovely local weekly that you’re reading right now. I happily met with her and asked about how I could help with sports coverage. Well, there was none, apparently. So, without much further ado, I became the first sports editor in the history of this award-winning publication. (Given the pay level, I was glad that there was indeed other freelance work to be had out there.) I created a column called Buckley’s Beat that was a mix of opinion and story, and also wrote weekly articles about the many and varied sports teams and people in town. We printed softball league standings and covered Little Leagues. We wrote about high school and college sports and hit Semana Nautica hard. I was a regular at the Athletic Round Table. I quickly discovered that sports in Santa Barbara was (and is) like the Balkans: a mix of hyper-focused enclaves interested in their own worlds … and ignorant or scornful of most others. As with many things S.B., real estate and money were big reasons. There was only so much playing space and the competition (which still goes on) for the various areas required to play soccer, softball, lacrosse, baseball, tennis, golf, etc., etc., solidified the Balkanization. Still, within each of the various sports communities, I found eager, excited, enthusiastic participants and fans. If all politics is local, then sports is even more local than that. It was a treat to be introduced to these disparate worlds, and I loved telling all of their stories. One of them was a cover story I did in 1994 about the then-three-year-old Santa Barbara Foresters summer baseball team. It was one of the first, if not the first, sports covers in the Indy (someone can check me on that—there was probably a surfing one at some point!). The Foresters story told the history of the team dating back to the 1950s 42

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AUGUST 27, 2026

and brought it up to the future with Bob Townsend, who had re-founded the team, and Bill Pintard, who took over as manager in 1995. As a newbie to S.B., my work with the Indy gave me entry into many areas that remain big parts of my life these many years since. So this is not so much about how I had a small impact on the Indy, but how the Jim Buckley in 1995 doing his best NFL pose Indy had a big impact on me. Just as Marianne gave me a place in the Independent fam- fied the Indy’s weekly coverage. Now he’s emeritus, too, and ily, that ’94 cover story led to Bill giving me another with the the estimable Victor Bryant oversees the Indy’s ongoing ’Sters. Every summer since, I’ve tried to help out in any way sportsness. I can. Along with the many friends I’ve made through the I’ve had a lot of fun in the Indy’s “toy department” (as team, I’ve enjoyed showing off the 11 national championship snarky newspeople call the sports part of newspapers). In rings (the most recent earned August 1!) that Bill’s teams my career, I’ve gone on to write a couple hundred books, edit have won. several national sports magazines, and cover all the biggest Also while on Buckley’s Beat, I joined an adult men’s soc- sports events. cer league after I had written about it—and I only retired But by far one of my proudest achievements was helping from playing about 18 months ago. (Goalies do not do very kick off sports at the Independent. Thanks, Marianne (and, well at 62, it turns out.) But the Renegades remain another of course, thanks to Patty for steering us to Santa Barbara!). one of my Santa Barbara families. See you on the field. Sometime in 1995, I left my column behind to get a job that paid slightly better, with a little outfit called the National As the Santa Barbara Independent celebrates its 40th anniversary Football League. But I’ve continued to chime in to the Indy in 2026, our staff is sharing their “Indy Origin” stories and other many times over the years whenever called upon. John Zant memories. See more of them at independent.com/40. And you’re all slipped into the sports editor chair after the News-Press invited to the INDY40 Fest on Saturday, August 29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, where there will be debacle; their loss was very much our gain, and he solidi-

music, panels, booths, and fun for all ages, all for free!

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hen you start a newspaper, you figure you’ll hit the usual high points. News, of course, local and some national. Entertainment. City Council reports. Business. Some lifestyle stuff. And sports! You gotta have sports!

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Jim Buckley Brought Sports to the Independent

Athletes of the Week by Victor Bryant

Each week, the Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table recognizes local student-athletes whose standout performances helped lift their teams and showcase the region’s sporting talent.

Bishop Diego Football: Samuel Boeddeker Samuel Boeddeker rushed for 162 yards and three rushing touchdowns in the Cardinals’ season opener. On defense, he was Bishop Diego’s leading tackler in the 37-24 win over Paso Robles.

Samuel Boeddeker

Santa Barbara High School Girls’ Volleyball: Blake Saunders Blake Saunders racked up 16 kills in the 3-1 win over Valencia, contributed 10 kills in a 3-0 loss to Newbury Park, and dominated the Cardinal Classic Tournament with 40 kills and 25 digs in five matches (Santa Barbara went 4-1, placing third of 26 teams). n

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Blake Saunders

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Teresa Taylor, owner of Paradise Found.

t was the 2020 Census, of all things, that brought Teresa Taylor to Santa Barbara. “I wanted to land somewhere nearby where I could put down roots and stay a while,” she said. Taylor got a job as a door-to-door knocker for the Census in Santa Barbara and soon formed a bond with the city and its inhabitants. As chance (or karma) would have it, Paradise Found had also just come up for sale. The metaphysical bookstore, founded in 1986 by a pair of nurses from the Pacific Northwest, appealed to Taylor, the daughter of a librarian. In addition to its titles on astrology and divination, the store promoted healing through music with listening booths and CDs for sale. Though she had worked as a set decorator and nonprofit development director, retail was new territory for Taylor. But with the tenacity of a terrier and the fortitude of an ox—“It wasn’t my cleverness,” she insisted—Taylor learned the ropes and brought the business into the 21st century, always operating with the mantra: “be of service to others.” Under Taylor’s stewardship, books remain foundational to the shop even as crystals, tarot decks, jewelry, candles, religious figures, dream catchers, and other objects that defy easy categorization now fill its cozy corners. Intuitive readers and energy healers meet with clients in person, while customers browse titles on herbal remedies, mythology, psychology, poetry, aging, children’s development, and spiritual teachings drawn from traditions around the world. That eclecticism is intentional, Taylor explained. Rather than direct visitors toward a single belief system, Paradise Found encourages them to browse widely before diving deeper. “That’s the magic,” she said. Regular events give people a chance to exchange ideas, discover resources, and explore different paths of personal growth. Taylor attributes the store’s longevity to its “extraordinary staff, phenomenal customers,” and a willingness to evolve its merchandise with the times. It also provides something impossible to reproduce digitally: a calm room, knowledgeable employees, and the possibility of conversation. Visitors tend to slow down and take a breath when they enter. As Paradise Found enters its fifth decade, Taylor, now 75 years old, is preparing to pass the business to another owner. Whoever takes it over, she said, “must have the desire to be of service and have a passion for the material.” She hopes they reinvent the space and make it their own, as she did. Taylor may be stepping back but she’s not leaving town. Her roots have grown too deep for that. She’s happy, she said, to pass her hardearned wisdom onto the next leader. “I want someone with the energy and vision to pop it up to the next level,” she said. “And I want them to come stand on my shoulders.”

Paradise Found is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 17 East Anapamu Street. Learn more at paradisefoundsb.com.

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Wine

FOOD&DRINK

p.45

Sharpening the Focus at

Pence Vineyards I since he planted his eponymous vineyard in the hills just west of Buellton, and not just due to the usual wine country ups and downs.

Meeting Blair Pence’s New Team and Learning About Changes at the Sta. Rita Hills Estate

KIM CARROLL PHOTOS

t’s been an action-packed two decades for Blair Pence

by Matt Kettmann

Blair Pence founded Pence Vineyards along Highway 246 two decades ago.

FOOD & DRINK

He’s careened confidently into some of the region’s most controversial affairs, leading the successful (though angrily attacked) push to expand the Sta. Rita Hills appellation eastward as well as fighting (with much more wine industry support) the movement to develop marijuana farms next to vineyards. Today, while pursuing his dream to build a winery and hospitality facility on the upper mesa of his Highway 246 property, Pence is staring down numerous permitting hurdles, expected and otherwise—some of which he believes are due to his troublemaking for the County of Santa Barbara powers-that-be over his cannabis concerns. And yet, despite these often tumultuous two decades of toil, Pence still talks about his vines and wines with a childlike glee, exuding infectious excitement about the latest plantings and bottlings with a massive grin on his face. His fervor for pinot noir and chardonnay is unrelenting—he’s an esteemed member of Burgundy’s famous Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, after all, visiting the French birthplace of these varieties every year and even starting Santa Barbara’s own chapter. And he’s more proud than ever of the Pence Vineyards & Winery package, explaining, “It took a while to get the team together.” After years of contracting his winemaking to Sashi Moorman’s Provignage consulting firm, Pence recently hired former UCSB soccer goalie Brittney Rogers away from Provignage to be his full-time winemaker. “We’re not part of the program anymore,” he explained. “We are the program.” He also retained Drake Whitcraft, who’s made his own wines from the Pence property for years, as a consultant, and enlisted experienced sommelier Tristan Pitre—who ran San Ysidro Ranch’s wine program for four years and then spent a year in sales at Samsara Winery—to oversee the visitor experience. (Pitre, however, just gave notice that he’s leaving.) As Pence drove around his nearly 50-acre vineyard one recent morning, showing off the existing but underused equestrian center where he’d like to put the future tasting room and winery, he spoke a lot about what’s no longer there. He’s ripped out most of the once-exciting blocks of syrah, grenache, and gamay, all to intensify his commitment to the pinot noir and chardonnay that he believes define the region. “We stopped trying to be all things to all people,” said

Pence, who felt his winery risked becoming a jack-of-alltrades and master of none. “I see a lot of wineries that try to do everything, and they wind up compromising. I don’t want to go to Burgundy to drink aligote and gamay. I want to focus on what’s best.” The little gamay that is left goes into the brut rosé sparkling wine, which they produce alongside a blanc de blanc from chardonnay, both of which are made under the advice of California bubbly wizard Michael Cruse. Visitors to the estate—where the tastings are appointment only but can frequently be made with little advance notice—often start with these sparkles touring the nearly 50-acre vineyard, which also features looks at the olive grove and resident cattle herd. Then guests settle into one of four different experiences in the refurbished 1911 barn, all of which include some small bites. There’s the entry-level introductory Foundry tasting ($60), which provides an introduction to a handful of their dozen or so annual bottlings; the bubbles-only tasting called Perlage ($100), which includes caviar; and the collector-focused Lincoln tasting ($100) that features older

vintages, including fantastic aged chardonnays. “That’s probably the most eye-opening for guests,” said Pitre. “Consumers don’t think about holding white wines, so it’s great to give them that opportunity. We do that work for them.” And for $200 per person, you can book the Vigneron tasting, in which Rogers herself will guide the tour and flight. She may tell you of her upbringing in Temecula, although that had little to do with her move into wine. That came due to a tasting room job at Melville Winery during COVID, which quickly shifted into a cellar role. She stayed there for four vintages, and found that the teamwork and hustle of harvest was quite familiar to the former goalie, who played for UCSB from 2014 to 2018. “Production reminds me a bunch of sports,” said Rogers. Even when she is not running your flight, Rogers makes sure to update the rest of the team on the latest happenings in the vineyard and cellar. “The information is really current for what’s happening right now,” said Pitre. “It’s a real authentic experience. It’s not canned.” This extensive lineup of experiences is all part of Pence’s strategy to vet customers and make sure they’re serious about buying wine before stepping onto the property. “We’re trying to qualify the customers,” he said, “and that works.” With the hospitality part dialed in, Pence continues to study the vineyard. He particularly prefers the California heritage clones like Calera and Mount Eden, which he obtained directly from those vineyards’ owners Josh Jensen and Jeff Patterson, respectively. But he knows it will require patience beyond his years to truly understand. “It takes a while to figure it out,” he said. “The Burgundians have 1,000 years on us!”

Tastings at Pence typically take place in the refurbished barn and involve small bites of food.

Pence Vineyards, 1909 W. Hwy. 246, Buellton; (805) 735-7000. See pencevineyards.com.

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AUGUST 27, 2026

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mong the multitude of places

to chill in the Santa Ynez Valley, we can now add the aptly named Analogue Room. It is a unique concept and hangout zone, with rotating vinyl and a rotating wine list, nestled in the Founders’ Square area of Solvang, and extending special appeal to vinyl lovers. Turntables assume a prominent place on the long bar in the space, with a selection of albums packed onto the shelves on the wall, adjacent to the wine and craft beers on display. Vinyl and adult beverages add up A peek inside Solvang’s new Analogue Room to an in-house killer combo on tap. settle in and relax.” On a recent late afternoon, the Joe Walsh album So What is spinning in the backIn some sense, the new spot follows the example ground — registering a loose local connection, of Standing Sun, which features singer-songwriter given Walsh’s link to the area. General Manager music in its mix of attractions. “I feel like it’s very Blake Economus is serving up beverages and bar similar and very different,” Wright said. “This convittles from behind the bar while also serving up cept is more focused on the vinyl listening aspect, whereas Standing Sun focuses on the live music the vinyl sounds. listening room. I find the most satisfaction and comfort in the fact that both spaces bring people together as community in a low-key, focused setting that celebrates the art of music and wine. “The vision is simple, yet curated. The wines are selected by my General Manager Blake Economus and me, focusing on local smallproduction wineries, most without tasting rooms. There are also some amazing small-production international wines on the list. We have by Josef Woodard close to 20 wines by the glass and are working toward 100 wines on the bottle list. The food Only opened a month ago, the place is the component is headed by chef Joseph Blanchard, brainchild of owner John Wright, founder/owner and we are working with local bakers, and farms of Standing Sun Winery, who approached Econo- and purveyors to source most of our ingredients.” mus and kitchen head Joe Blanchard about startThe website offers its own summation of what ing this new venture. All had been working in makes the new spot tick: “Three Words. One the wine industry in S.Y.V. and ready for a new Room. Everything we do is anchored in three prinadventure. ciples. They’re our compass, our standard, and our “We knew it had to have something unique invitation to slow down. 01 Curation: A rotating going for it,” said Economus, “and we all loved selection of wines, beers, and non-alcoholic offermusic and vinyl. The records come from our own ings. We serve plenty of small-production local collection in different places, including from Off wines. Some of which only make 25-50 cases of the Record (a vinyl boutique across the street varietal. 02 Intention: Nothing here is by accident. in Solvang). Customers will bring in their own The lighting, the volume, the pour. We designed records and play them as well.” a room that asks you to be present, to listen, and I mention that many of these album covers give to settle in. 03 Analogue: Vinyl, played properly. me nostalgia pangs, like the collaged cover of Jerry No algorithms deciding the night. Records are Garcia’s 1972 solo album. “Oh yeah,” he added, hand-picked and spun on our turntable, bring“we’re all fans of the Grateful Dead. That’s the Dead ing the room to life. Every open hour, records are section right there.” spinning.” Wright speaks about the organic process of Wright is looking toward an evolving future. arriving at the mix of elements in his latest ven- He notes, “We will start having special nights for ture, “it was just a smaller reinvention of what I locals, winemaker takeovers, and curated listenwas already doing, a shift from declining sales in ing and food pairing nights. We are just getting the wine tasting room and figuring out the pivot started.” that still kept me in the wine world. I had seen Meanwhile, back in the room, the Joe Walsh some vinyl listening rooms on some travels and of 1974 is serenading us pre-happy hour patrons: became fascinated with the ‘Jazz Kissa’ Japanese “And the backyard people and they work all hi-fi listening rooms. day / The day gets wasted, it’s safe to say / The day’s “Although I did not take it that far, I felt the draw spent makin’ words rhyme / And you know it’s gettoward creating a communal space that celebrated ting stronger / I can’t make ’em rhyme that much the music and culture of vinyl, while showcasing longer / Turn to stone.” local small production wines and beers and also bringing in a food component to get people to Analogue Room, 1693 Mission Dr., Solvang, analogueroom.com

FOOD & DRINK

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Cheese Ple ase

INGRID BOSTROM

Empire Goes Roman Style

PEGASLICE is a New Goleta Pizza Joint from the Giovanni’s Family Line

Graze Craze is coming to 126 East Haley Street in downtown Santa Barbara.

new charcuterie concept is headed to Santa Barbara. Graze Craze, a rapidly growing chain specializing in artfully arranged charcuterie boards, boxes, and catering, is coming to 126 East Haley Street, Suite A-1, in the Platform complex downtown. If the address seems like an unusual spot for a restaurant, there is a reason: Graze Craze isn’t really a traditional restaurant. The concept is built primarily around takeout, delivery, and catering rather than sit-down dining. Its locations prepare made-to-order grazing boards filled with combinations of meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, breads, crackers, sweets, and accompaniments. The company even calls the employees who assemble its creations “Grazologists.” The business model also helps explain the choice of location. Graze Craze says its stores don’t require cooking equipment and can operate in spaces much smaller than conventional restaurants. The company has previously said its typical kitchen is around 1,000 square feet. Customers can order everything from individual grazing boxes to larger boards designed for parties, office meetings, and other events. Graze Craze was founded by U.S. Air Force veteran Kerry Sylvester, who began testing the concept in Oklahoma in 2018. The company subsequently joined United Franchise Group and began franchising in 2021. Expansion has been fast. Graze Craze opened 32 new locations in 2024, and in 2025 the company announced that it had reached its 100th location, less than five years after launching its franchise program. The chain has also expanded internationally, with locations in Canada, Australia, and France. The Santa Barbara location would put Graze Craze into a market that seems particularly well suited to its product. Between wine tasting, picnics, weddings, corporate events, and the area’s sizable hospitality industry, there are plenty of occasions around Santa Barbara that call for cheese and charcuterie. No opening date has been announced yet. Visit grazecraze.com.

FOOD & DRINK

oozed out of the homemade bread, which was soft and had a wonderful extra-virgin olive oil layer of crunch to its exterior. It’s clear from just these four slices alone that Noormand has a taste for spice. The crust is at once delicate while also offering a wonderful crunch, and the dough is hearty enough to hold the entire slice, thick with toppings, without slumping over. Each bite offers an explosion of flavor with rich cream sauce, fresh vegetables, and a kick. Noormand’s Roman-style pizza is unique, and specifically the method The PEGASLICE pizza and salad offerings Massimiliano Saieva teaches in his or a few minutes, my family along with a Roman PizzaLab classes. “What makes group of women playing mah-jongg have my approach different is that I focus very deeply the patio to ourselves. The quiet doesn’t last on the technical side of Roman pizza. For me, it’s long. For a Monday, the new Roman-style not simply about making a rectangular pizza with pizza shop on Calle Real is surprisingly busy. Soon a crispy crust. There is a precise balance between enough, families come in and out of the former hydration, fermentation, mixing, dough temperaHome Plate Grill to pick up long boxes of uniquely ture, handling, baking, and the final texture,” Saieva flavored pies, Florentine-style sandwiches, and soft told me via email. “My goal is to achieve a pizza that serve. is extremely light and airy inside, with a thin, crisp Just weeks into opening, PEGASLICE has exterior and a very distinctive structure.” already settled comfortably into Goleta’s To that end, Noormand — who Saieva Ellwood Heights. It seems like everysays was “motivated, curious, and a serious student” — ferments his one has the same idea — to try out the new spot from Giovanni’s dough for 72 hours, which makes it family scion McLeod Nooorlighter and easier on the body. For mand, the 24-year-old Roman now, he’s sourcing locally when pizza masterclass graduate who he can, and using Jordano’s and grew up under the helm of Tama Trading Co., though he local pizza legend Albert Noorhopes to introduce a farmers’ mand, his grandfather. market pizza in the near future. “I’ve been working in resA month in business, and taurants pretty much my whole Noormand admits he hasn’t taken a full day off yet. That’s to life,” says Noormand, “but really got into it working at my dad’s be expected for a new restaurant by Meaghan Clark Tiernan restaurant, Giovanni’s Pizza, in owner, especially in these times, but Carpinteria. I just fell in love with hardly a typical day for a 24-year-old. restaurants — loved everything about “In every facet of life, you have to sacit.” rifice one thing for another,” he says. “I’m sacrificing a little bit of my social life to start That experience, plus a trip to Las Vegas in which he stumbled upon master pizzaiolo Mas- adulthood earlier.” similiano Saieva‘s live demo during the InternaWhen the opportunity presented itself to take tional Pizza Expo, led Noormand to a classroom over the former home of Home Plate Grill, which in Connecticut. For three days, Noormand studied closed after 10 years of business, he couldn’t pass under Saieva and his unique take on Roman-style it up. The Santa Barbara native has been learnpizza. The result, many years and test pizzas later, ing a lot about the new neighborhood, which was completely unfamiliar to him upon arrival. “I feel is PEGASLICE. Like other pizzerias in Rome, where Noormand so welcomed,” he says. “I had no idea how huge first fell in love with this style of pizza, a glass case [Ellwood Heights] was.” houses a line of long rectangular pies. Noormand Locals are always intrigued by a new restaurant, built his menu around things he loves, so while and that’s allowed a steady stream of new faces to there’s a few standard pizzas such as pepperoni and walk in the door of his retro American-style diner, margherita, it’s the rotating specials that I gravitate but it’ll be the residents of Ellwood and its surtoward. We pick up a bianco, topping heavy with rounding Goleta neighbors that keep the business mushrooms, jalapeño, chives, and garlic, as well as going. After all, Noormand has big plans in store the spicy vodka eggplant parm, which starts with for PEGASLICE. “I’d love for PEGASLICE to be as big as an Ina homemade vodka sauce based along with sweet N-Out or a Chick-fil-A long term. But I’d like to be eggplant and homemade chili crunch. The way the Florentine sandwiches were able to do it right and [I’m] really trying to develop described when Noormand and I sat down earlier a customer-service-based business,” he says. “I that day meant there was no way I was walking really feel like that’s the key to fast-casual restauaway without one. The Florentina sandwich, filled rant business.” with a fistful of arugula, prosciutto, and truffle cream, was too good to pass up. The truffle cream PEGASLICE, 7398 Calle Real, Ste. C, Goleta; pegaslice.com.

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Graze Craze Coming Third-Generation Pizza to Downtown

FIRE BREAKS OUT AT DEJA VU CAFÉ: Reader Steve C. let me know that a fire

broke out early Tuesday morning, August 18, at Deja Vu Café at 966 Embarcadero del Mar in Isla Vista, a longtime restaurant that has served the UCSB community for nearly 40 years. Santa Barbara County firefighters responded to the structure fire at approximately 6 a.m. and had the blaze extinguished within a half hour. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation, and the extent of damage to the restaurant is not yet known. It is also unclear when Deja Vu Café will be able to reopen. The eatery has been an Isla Vista fixture since 1989, serving comfort food and late-night meals to generations of UCSB students and local residents. THE NEW VENTURA DAVE’S DOGS CLOSES: Last April, Santa Barbara’s popular

Dave’s Dogs opened a location at Ventura’s Pacific View Mall. Reader Annie forwarded me a Reddit post announcing it has closed after five months in business. “Drove by today and both doors have ‘closed’ written on them and they’re clearing out equipment. They just opened.” John Dickson’s reporting can be found every day online at SantaBarbara.com. Send tips to info@SantaBarbara.com.

INDEPENDENT.COM AUGUST 27, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

PUBLIC NOTICE The California Coastal Commission will consider certifying County of Santa Barbara Local Coastal Program Amendment No. LCP-4-STB-25-0014-1-Part A (Agricultural) for Public Hearing and Commission Action at the Friday, September 11, 2026 Commission Meeting to be held virtually and in person. A hearing agenda, live stream link, and instructions for submitting public comment can be found at https://www.coastal.ca.gov/meetings/agenda/#/2026/9. Public Hearing Date and Location

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Commission Hearing Begins at 9:00 a.m. (Individual Items Are Not Set For A Certain Time) ITEM F8a DESCRIPTION OF THE SUBMITTAL: Agricultural Enterprise Uses Amendment. The County of Santa Barbara is requesting to amend the Implementation Plan portion of its certified LCP to incorporate new development standards and permit procedures regarding agricultural enterprise uses in the Agriculture II zone district of the unincorporated areas of the County. HEARING PROCEDURES: This item has been scheduled for a public hearing and vote. People wishing to testify on this matter may appear at the hearing and/or may present their concerns in writing to the Commission before the hearing date. ALLOTTED TIME FOR TESTIMONY: Oral testimony may be limited to 2 minutes for each speaker depending on the number of persons wishing to be heard. WRITTEN MATERIALS: All written materials submitted to Commission staff will be distributed to the Commission prior to the hearing on this item, if received by 5pm on the Friday before the hearing. If received after that time, the materials will not be distributed to the Commission. The staff reports may be viewed on the Coastal Commission’s website under the September Hearing Agenda at www.coastal.ca.gov. To submit written materials or for additional information contact: California Coastal Commission, South Central Coast Area, 89 South California Street, Suite 200, Ventura, CA 93001, (805) 585-1800.

SBC ANIMAL CARE FOUNDATION AND ANIMAL ANGELS THE MCHURLEYS PRESENT

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For 40 years, The Santa Barbara Independent has been a trusted voice for Santa Barbara—championing local journalism, celebrating the arts and culture, and keeping the community informed and engaged. From all of us at New Times, congratulations on this remarkable milestone. While we may serve neighboring communities, we share a common mission: supporting local businesses, telling local stories, and strengthening the Central Coast through independent journalism. Here’s to four decades of making a difference—and to many more years of serving your readers with passion, integrity, and purpose.

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AUGUST 27, 2026

40 Years. Still Local. INDEPENDENT.COM

WEEK OF AUGUST 27

(Mar. 21-Apr. 19): On the scifi TV show Stargate SG1, benevolent aliens known as the Asgard visit Earth to seek assistance from a secret U.S. government team. The ultraadvanced, hyper-intelligent Asgard have been unable to defeat their great nemesis, another alien species called the Replicators. Their hope is that their primitive partners, the humans, might stumble onto some basic, straightforward answer that their own sophisticated minds can’t see. The gamble pays off. One of Earth’s leading physicists, who’s a naive amateur by Asgard standards, devises a rough, unsophisticated strategy that works wonderfully. Treat this as your parable, Aries: Put your faith in simple, uncluttered approaches, and don’t underestimate “beginner-level” fixes.

TAURUS

(Apr. 20-May 20): During one of my visits to the annual Burning Man festival in the Nevada desert, I encountered a prankster named Mother Very Superior. This nonbinary performer was dressed like a nun and wore a prominent chastity belt. Wielding a toy whip, they gently lashed me on my shoulders and prayed over me, saying, “I absolve you of all your sins. Therefore, you are now free to commit a raucous slew of new sins.” I hope you get a similar dispensation, Taurus. To be fully available for the rollicking delights you’re eligible for, it would be wise to reduce your karmic debt.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): Archaeologists studying ancient Roman shipwrecks found that sailors deliberately made their vessels heavier by stowing rocks in the hull. This reduced the profitability of their voyages, since it reduced their cargo capacity. On the other hand, it meant they wouldn’t capsize during storms. An excellent trade-off! Let’s use this scenario as a metaphor for your life right now, Gemini. I’m going to suggest that you will benefit from adding more ballast. Seemingly burdensome elements could keep you steady if conditions become unruly. Consider this: Not everything heavy is holding you back. Some of it is keeping you strong and stable.

CANCER

(June 21-July 22): During the Baroque era, Cancerian artist Artemisia Gentileschi painted powerful biblical and historical women who killed tyrants and delivered their people from violent domination. By channeling her creative passion into figures of righteous fury, she transformed her personal trauma into psychological power. I invite you to be inspired by Gentileschi as you reconfigure your own story in the coming weeks, Cancerian. Wouldn’t it be fun and potent to transform the way you imagine both the past and future plot threads of your destiny?

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22): In traditional sourdough baking, a small portion of fermented dough called a starter is saved and refreshed regularly. Some bakeries maintain the same lineage for years. The starter is a living culture of wild yeasts and lactic acid bacteria that feed on flour and water, producing acids and gases that leaven the dough and create bread with complex flavor, aroma, and texture. Let’s use this as a metaphor for your life, Leo. What long-running resource can you use to help create situations that will empower you to thrive in interesting ways during the coming months?

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The coming months could be a legendary turning point you will celebrate in the future: a pivotal time when you finally outsmart an old adversary and untangle a knotted inheritance, clearing the way to pursue your true calling with undiluted devotion. Or, on the other hand, the days ahead could be another round in the long saga of “almost”: a decisive phase when you avoid a challenge that has been begging for your full brilliance, leaving your future without shining clues for how to further decode the ancient riddle. Which destiny will you accomplish, dear Virgo? Will you answer the call to adventure? Or ignore it until it fades away?

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Some of my most useful revelations arrive in the dark. Once, while hiking in a wooded canyon at dusk, I lost the trail and had to feel my way forward by the sound of the creek. In that blind descent, an insight about a personal riddle I’d been pondering for months appeared unbidden, as if it had been waiting in the shadows for me. As I followed the stream bank to safety, I celebrated by singing Leonard Cohen’s song “Hallelujah.” The moral of the story is that some lessons can be best learned by going down: into the body, into confusing feelings, into the rich compost of mysteries we may be hesitant to explore. How about you, Libra? In my professional opinion, your next pivotal breakthroughs are lurking in the fertile darkness rather than the brilliant heights. I hope you’re brave enough to descend. The treasure is buried, as treasure often is.

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In 1912, Scorpio meteorologist Alfred Wegener proposed the theory of continental drift. It’s the idea that Earth’s continents were once joined in a single supercontinent and have gradually drifted apart to their present positions over millions of years. Most scientists initially rejected his hypothesis because he couldn’t explain how the movement occurred. He didn’t live long enough to receive vindication, but decades later, his novel hypothesis was fully accepted. I’m pleased to report that your wait will be far shorter, Scorpio. Please keep your faith in the novel ideas and perceptions that others don’t understand yet. The world’s almost ready for your innovations.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): There is a kind of lightning called a “sprite.” It’s a ghostly red discharge that blossoms high above thunderstorms. I suspect you may soon experience your own personal versions of this wonder. Fleeting insights may appear in unexpected places. Emotionally rich revelations could arrive out of nowhere. Because the moments could pass quickly, it will be crucial to notice them when they arrive. They could stimulate major shifts in your understanding. Keep your perceptive powers highly attuned.

Make a tax deductible contribution at sbcan.org/journalism_fund

Mickey Flacks was a dogged advocate for affordable housing, among other progressive causes, so the Santa Barbara Independent launched the Mickey Flacks Journalism Fund soon after she died in 2020 to keep her work alive.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Fertility clinics store frozen human embryos. Numbering in the hundreds of thousands, they are suspended in a long, chilly pause, awaiting instructions from the people who created them. This accumulation of potential life on hold makes me think of you. If you would thaw and reclaim the neglected, untouched regions of your own imagination, you would become an even more formidable generator of focused creative power. The encouraging news is that the coming weeks will be an unusually favorable phase to expedite this process.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Some earthquakes unleash energy in violent bursts, but others are incremental commotions that unfold gradually over days or even weeks. The way they reorganize the Earth’s crust is kinder and gentler. Let’s regard these slow quakes as an apt metaphor for the initially disruptive but ultimately constructive transformations underway in your beautiful life, Aquarius. You may not see spectacular evidence that change is percolating, but I guarantee that it is. Old structures are in a transitional phase of subtle disarray, creating conditions for new dispensations you can’t imagine yet. My prediction: The rearrangement of your landscape will be healing.

Christina McDermott

Thanks to her fellowship, our reporter Christina McDermott spends many of her waking hours trying to unravel Santa Barbara’s forbiddingly complex and expensive housing landscape.

McDermott’s quest is only possible due to the generosity of our readers who have supported the Mickey Flacks Journalism Fund. Christina is on the job. We want to keep it that way. Please give generously.

Read Christina’s Work below independent.com/mickeyflacksfellow

PISCES

(Feb. 19-Mar. 20): The Sargasso Sea is the only sea on Earth without a land boundary. It’s defined entirely by four strong Atlantic Ocean currents that circle it. Its edges aren’t solid walls but slowly shifting rivers of water. I think this anomalous body of water is always a vivid symbol of your world, Pisces, and even more so these days. Your boundaries are currents, not coastlines. You hold your shape through movement, not through rigid definition. This is more challenging to maintain than solid borders, but it’s also a great potential strength. Use it with aplomb!

ARIES

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PROFESSIONAL

APPLICATION DEVELOPER ADVANCEMENT SERVICES

The Application Developer for Advancement Services serves as the technical expert responsible for the design, development, maintenance, and optimization of the University’s enterprise Advancement CRM systems (currently Advance*) and related technologies, supported by an Oracle Database environment. Under general supervision and with a high degree of individual responsibility and integrity, this role works with a team of programmers while ensuring the successful implementation of customizations, integrations, and data management solutions that support the university’s fundraising, alumni relations, and donor stewardship efforts. The position combines advanced programming expertise with leadership experience and a strong understanding of advancement systems to ensure technical solutions align with departmental strategic goals. This position also requires strong communication and collaboration skills, working closely with university executives, fundraisers, gift administration, and prospect services staff to support reporting needs, data analysis, and the delivery of accurate and actionable advancement information that informs strategic fundraising initiatives and decision‑making. Designs, develops, and optimizes complex reports and reporting frameworks. Conducts comprehensive data audit processes, establishes validation standards, and ensures consistency and accuracy across reporting outputs. Leads the department in report development, testing, and documentation. Supports advanced data analysis initiatives to identify trends and inform strategic decisions. Designs and delivers dashboards and visualizations tailored to diverse stakeholders. Promotes effective use of analytical tools in data interpretation and presentation. Manages data import processes from internal and external sources, including third‑party screenings. Defines standards for data mapping, transformation, and validation. Ensures accurate integration of screening results and guides the team in maintaining efficient, repeatable workflows. Develops and maintains integrations between internal systems and third‑party vendor applications/ software to ensure reliable and timely data exchange. Establishes monitoring, alerting, and error‑resolution protocols. Troubleshoots synchronization issues, reconciles discrepancies, and improves overall integration reliability. Defines and enforces data standards, business rules, and quality controls. Performs data cleansing, deduplication, and validation efforts. Collaborates with stakeholders to promote best practices and ensure long‑term data reliability. Manages user access, roles, and permissions to ensure appropriate and secure access to sensitive data. Leads the implementation of data security protocols within the Ellucian Advance system to safeguard donor and

alumni information. Ensures compliance with relevant regulations and institutional privacy policies, across all technical solutions and system customizations. Collaborates closely with the security team on campus to enforce data access controls and conducts periodic security audits while advising on best practices for secure data handling. Performs database performance tuning, maintenance, and optimization. Develops and reviews queries, stored procedures, and scripts. Supports backup and recovery planning, system upgrades, and long‑term technical strategy. Reqs: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, or a related field (or equivalent work experience); 4‑6 yrs Expertise and working knowledge in Oracle PL‑SQL, Oracle DBA, ASP.net, Visual Basic, C#, C++, Crystal Reports, MS Access, IIS, HTML, CCS, JavaScript, Perl, XML and PHP; 4‑6 yrs of experience and proficiency with web development, security, maintenance and interfacing complex web reporting and web applications; Deep knowledge of database management, optimization, and reporting tools. Notes: Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/Budgeted Salary Range: $83,165 to $111,000/year. Full Salary Range: $83,165 to $150,565.68/year. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Application review begins 09/04/2026. Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88368.

knowledge of University rules and regulations, processes, protocols and procedures for budget, accounting and fund management, and / or personnel management; Interpersonal skills including verbal and written communication, active listening, critical thinking, persuasiveness, advising and counseling skills; Knowledge of a variety of administrative operational activities such as event planning, basic fundraising processes, risk management planning, website design, accounting and payroll, and contracts and grants regulations and guidelines; Solid knowledge of common University‑specific computer application programs; Ability to use discretion and maintain confidentiality; Strong skills in short‑term planning, analysis, problem‑solving, and customer service; Thorough knowledge of financial analysis and reporting techniques, and / or human resources policies and procedures for staff and academic employees. Hiring/Budgeted salary range is $81,600 to $97,000/ year. The full salary range for this position is $81,600 to $147,800/year. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open until filled. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 87877.

CASE RESOLUTION OFFICER BUSINESS OFFICER GLOBAL & INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

The Business Officer is responsible for the full range of management functions for the Global Studies Department encompassing administration, financial management, contract and grant administration, staff and academic personnel, academic and student support services, technical support services, purchasing, facilities maintenance and renovation, instructional resources and safety programs. Develops and implements operating policies and procedures as they relate to overall department goals and objectives. In this capacity, independently solves problems requiring interpretation of a wide variety of federal, state, and campus policies. These responsibilities, therefore, require thorough knowledge of University, state, and federal regulations, policies, guidelines, and procedures, as well as the use of considerable judgment and tact in problem solving and decision making. Handles confidential faculty and staff matters for the department and ensures compliance with the implementation of diversity guidelines and procedures. Provides continuity with regard to department policies and long range goals and develops strategies for implementation. Interprets, implements and ensures compliance with staff personnel policies and collective bargaining contracts. Serves as the liaison between the department and external agencies by responding to and recommending a course of action with respect to various inquiries and problems as they may arise. Reqs: Bachelor’s Degree in related area and/or equivalent experience / training; 4‑6 yrs Supervisory and Personnel work experience; 4‑6 yrs Financial Work experience; Thorough

THE INDEPENDENT

AUGUST 27, 2026

TITLE IX COMPLIANCE & DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT PREVENTION OFFICE (TIXO) Using independent judgment, while maintaining an experienced level of professionalism and initiative, and adhering to a strict policy of confidentiality, the Complaint Resolution Officer (CRO) provides direct analytical, caseload management and complaint handling to support the the Title IX Compliance & Discrimination and Harassment Prevention Office (Title IX/DHP Office). The CRO serves as the primary contact and intake person for all assigned cases of harassment and discrimination pursuant to the University’s Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment (SVSH) Policy and the University’s Anti‑Discrimination Policy. The CRO acts with the requisite interpersonal sensitivity to deal effectively with the campus community, colleagues and external partners. Initiates response processes by conducting initial investigative outreach to parties, conducts informational sessions and intakes, responds to advisor and/or support people’s procedural inquiries, conducts the initial assessment for all assigned cases, and assumes responsibility for case trajectory and preliminary determinations. Is charged with developing the investigative response for cases proceeding in that process, and for engaging in effective communication with the parties and campus partners throughout the investigation process, and is responsible for maintaining investigative timelines per the University’s policies. Assists in the preparation and distribution of final reports, including consultation about case analysis and preliminary findings. Oversees and maintains complaint filing system for assigned cases. Assists in unique, sensitive and confidential projects assigned by office leadership. Reqs: Bachelor’s Degree in a related

INDEPENDENT.COM

area and/or equivalent experience and training; 2+ yrs of experience working with laws and regulations related to harassment and discrimination in the educational and employment settings or of substantially similar laws and regulations; 4+ yrs of experience with conducting analysis and developing recommendations; Proven track record of effective written and oral communication skills, building rapport while maintaining neutrality, effectively communicating with advisors and support people, diffusing contentious interactions, providing effective support for parties, effective listening skills, and the ability to memorialize high volumes of information shared verbally; Demonstrated ability to gather and organize information, conduct analysis, and develop recommendations in the completion of assignments; critical thinker. Notes:Training of at least 10 hours is required annually after initial training requirements are met. Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/Budgeted Range: $90,600 to $98,180/year. Full Salary Range: $90,600 to $166,400/year. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open Until Filled. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88219.

COOK

CAMPUS DINING The Cook performs culinary duties such as preparing soups and casseroles, grilling, roasting or barbecuing foods, working a sauté station, and preparing and assembling made‑to‑order entrees serving up to 1,500 meals per shift. Ensures that assigned responsibilities are accomplished and that high standards of food quality, service, sanitation and safety are met at all times. Assists

with student training, food production and sanitation. Reqs: High School Or Equivalent combination of education and experience; 1‑3 Yrs Culinary experience in a high‑volume culinary environment; 1‑3 Yrs Knowledge of and experience with culinary techniques, including but not inclusive of sauteing, grilling, frying, steaming, preparing sauces and stocks; Equivalent combination of education and experience. Notes: Satisfactory criminal history background check; Visa sponsorship is not available for this position; Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work standing for up to 8 hours per day; Work hours/days may vary. Hiring/ Budgeted Hourly Range: $26.78 ‑ $27.29/ hr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open Until Filled. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88153.

FINANCIAL ANALYST

ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT Under the general supervision of the Business Officer, the Financial Analyst is responsible for the overall coordination of the fiscal operations for activities of the Global Environmental Justice Project, Center for Undergraduate Environmental Leadership (CUEL), Yardi Scholars for Environmental Justice Program, The Energy Transformation Initiative, program endowments, small campus grants such as TSRA, URCA, FRAP, Honors Seminars, and Faculty Start up. Collaborates with the Business Officer to implement financial systems and procedures; monitors aforementioned budgets; prepares cost analyses and projects expenses; reviews and reports on monthly expenses and analyzes spending patterns. Oversees and processes payroll and personnel

NOW HIRING

actions for student employees, limited staff, and graduate students. Provides direction and support to Faculty regarding accounting procedures and policy in areas that include purchasing, payroll, personnel, gift administration, accounts payable, and other areas as needed. Utilizes and maintains a working knowledge of campus systems including Gateway, Timekeeping, UCPath, BARC, FinHub and Flexcard. Oversee and supervise the Financial Administrator. Resolves financial issues and provides input toward maintaining efficiency and accuracy of financial transactions and operations. Processes miscellaneous reimbursements, Honoraria, Entertainment, Travel, and removal for incoming faculty. Tracks and reports financial activities in shadow financial system. Serves as a back‑up for Academic Personnel coordinator in processing merit, recruitment, or personnel actions. Reqs: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience; 1‑3 yrs Work Experience in related area and/or equivalent experience or training; Working knowledge of finance

Continued on p. 52

DELIVERY DRIVER The Santa Barbara Independent is is looking for a temporary, part-time driver to deliver Thursday mornings as needed. This is a flexible position that may lead to a permanent position. Must have a truck or van, valid license, proof of insurance, able to lift 30+ lbs repeatedly, have clean driving record and be self motivated. Starting hourly rate $25. Please no phone calls. Email reason for interest and resume to hr@independent.com. EOE F/M/D/V.

NOW HIRING

DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR The Santa Barbara Independent has an opportunity in our Digital Department. This part-time position will publish editorial content on independent.com and support in scheduling other digital formats including newsletters and social media. We are looking for motivated individuals with great attention to detail who are ready to collaborate. Writing skills and experience in Adobe Creative Cloud and/or creating digital visualizations are a plus. We will train the right candidate. This position is based out of our Santa Barbara office and is a hybrid position with weekly in-person meetings required. Starting hourly rate: $18-$20 EOE F/M/D/V. No phone calls, please.

Please send résumé along with cover letter to

hr@independent.com

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Ac r o s s

54. Ingrid Bergman’s “Casablanca” character 1. Positive votes 59. Golden Tempo’s 5. Barcelona appetizers mother, e.g. 10. Haggis vendor, usually 60. Divisive political topic 14. Hurting 62. Env. data 15. Without ___ in the world 63. Owe ___ of gratitude 16. Base for poi 64. “The Incredibles” fashion 17. Mennen aftershave brand designer Mode 19. Strummed instruments 65. “California Dreamin’” 20. Like U.S. phone numbers singer Elliot (including area codes) 66. “Say ___ the Dress” 21. YouTube offerings (TLC reality series) 23. Royal flush need 67. Grains at the shore 24. Fish nets 26. Some fast food freebies 1. Helper, for short 30. #42 2. Ox connector 33. Numerical suffix 3. Brockovich portrayed 34. It contains the id by Julia Roberts 36. Brand of tea once 4. “Where the Wild Things owned by Starbucks Are” author 37. Adidas rival 5. Goals 39. Sign of summer 6. Three-syllable berry 40. Rachel Maddow’s 7. Agreements network, 8. “Where ___ you going as of late 2025 with that thing?” 41. Car sold at auction, maybe 9. Submissive 42. Brief outline 10. Class members 44. Stranded material 11. Flat trays for weddings 45. Ozzy’s band, for short 12. Vegan and kosher cookie 47. Patrick who 13. Chuck played McDreamy 18. Arm muscle 49. Become fixated 22. Ending for some 51. “Aladdin” monkey pasta varieties 52. 2026 Winter Olympics 25. It’s major when country, locally there’s a G#

D ow n

26. Some custard fruits 27. Offshore 28. Recycled paper products used for backing 29. Air dwellers of folklore 31. O3 32. “That’s impossible!” 35. Intro to chemistry? 38. Fruit desserts 40. Bollywood’s home 42. Eroded 43. Words before “exist” or “be” 46. “___ was about to say ...” 48. Heartbeats 50. Entree go-withs 52. Colorful tech product of the late 1990s 53. Sound of a big reveal? 55. Pride letters 56. Meat package letters 57. Actor Bill or director Trevor 58. Completely out of power 61. Stamp ending? ©2026 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@jonesincrosswords. com) For answers to this puzzle, call: 1-900-226-2800, 99 cents per minute. Must be 18+. Or to bill to your credit card, call: 1-800-655-6548. Reference puzzle #1303

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION:

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EMPLOYMENT (CONT.) policies and practices; Ability to perform financial reconciliations of expenses and backup; Demonstrated ability using spreadsheet and database software for moderately complex financial analysis and financial reports; Demonstrated ability to effectively present spreadsheets to management clearly and concisely; Demonstrated analytical and critical thinking skills; Ability to work under the pressure of deadlines, and to multi‑task. Notes: Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/Budgeted Salary Range: $79,200 to $88,000/year. Full Salary Range: $79,200 to $143,400/year. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open until filled. Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb. edu, Job # 88026.

needed as directed by manager. Ability to lift 50 lbs; Required to hold a valid driver’s license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies and procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program; Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/Budgeted Range: $26.86/hr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open Until Filled. Apply online at https://jobs. ucsb.edu, Job # 88215.

MEDICAL ASSIS ASSISTANT

STHL (STUDENT HEALTH)

MAIL PROCESSOR MAIL

The Mail Processor performs a variety of duties related to the processing and delivery of US and campus mail. This includes, but is not limited to, operating high speed mailing machines using electronic scales; recharging departments for outgoing postage; picking up and delivering mail throughout the campus; handling accountable mail such as registered, certified, and express mail; prepares US Mail for “returned to sender”; uses variety of stickers to identify handling of packages with addressing issues; operating mail truck and other material handling equipment. Mail Processor is expected to arrive at work on time due to the scheduled nature of services offered to UCSB campus by dept. Reqs: Two yrs of experience in the handling of campus and U.S. mail, including a working knowledge of postal regulations and postal rates; 1‑3 yrs experience and basic knowledge of major shipping carriers and the array of products offered. Notes: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Work M‑F 7:30am ‑ 4:30pm, schedule can be modified/adjusted depending on needs of Mail Services operations; Required to hold a valid driver’s license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies and procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program; Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring Budgeted Range: $26.86/ hr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open Until Filled. Apply online at https://jobs. ucsb.edu, Job # 87955.

MAIL PROCESSOR MAIL

Works at the customer service window of the University Center Post Office performing US Postal Service transactions and release parcels to addressees (students). Receives, records and sorts incoming US Mail and parcels. Picks up incoming mail from the USPS processing center and also delivers packages to the Santa Catalina Residence complex daily. Operates the University Center truck. Lifts and handles parcels weighing up to 50 pounds. Responsible for performing daily scheduled tasks within the UCen Post Office including: monitoring student staff, confirming addressing of US Mail and packages with inaccurate addressing and discerning the appropriate disposition of these items. Basic light cleaning and maintenance duties, and other duties as assigned within the scope of the job description. Reqs: Two yrs of experience in the handling of campus and U.S. mail, including a working knowledge of postal regulations and postal rates. Notes: Occasional special work hours on weekdays and weekends may be

Under the supervision of the Clinical Supervisor, the medical assistant provides medical and administrative support to the physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurses, and licensed vocational nurses. The medical assistant will assist, perform or provide limited support for the following: exams, procedures, taking vitals, perform point‑of‑care lab testing, checking in/out patients, filling out necessary paperwork, taking phone/electronic messages and following directives from the clinicians. The medical assistant will also act as a medical chaperone. The medical assistant will perform autoclave and laundry duties, and run errands as needed. Reqs: High School Diploma or equivalent; Knowledge of clinical policies and procedures; Knowledge of medical terminology; Knowledge of electronic medical records and computer skills; Knowledge of common safety hazards and precautions to establish a safe work environment; Ability to communicate well with patients, families, co‑workers, physicians, advance care providers, other members of the healthcare team, community resources, as well as the campus community; Ability to organize and prioritize work; Ability to follow oral and written instructions; Ability to reason and make sound judgments; Skilled in identifying problems and recommending solutions; Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with co‑workers, management, patients, medical staff, the public, and the campus as a whole; Skilled in accepting constructive criticism and giving suggestions in a professional manner; Act in accordance with the highest possible standards of ethics and integrity and comply with work rules, standards, and procedures; Certification with one of the following agencies: American Association of Medical Assistants (AMA), American Medical Technologists (AMT), California Certifying Board of Medical Assistants (CMAA). Note: Applicants without a proper certification will not be considered. Notes: Student Health requires all clinical staff successfully pass the fingerprint background check and credentialing before the start date. To comply with Santa Barbara County Public Health Department Health Officer Order, this position must provide evidence of annual influenza vaccination, or wear a surgical mask while working in patient care areas during the influenza season. Any HIPAA/FERPA violation may be subject to disciplinary action. This is an 11‑month per year position. Work hours may include Thursday evenings from 10am‑7pm. Student Health is closed between Christmas and New Year’s Day; Credential verification for clinical practitioner; Mandated reporting requirements of Child Abuse; Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/Budgeted Hourly Range: $28.32/hr. to $33.85/hr. Salary or Hourly Range: The budgeted salary range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $28.32/ hr. to $$33.85/hr. Full Salary Range: $28.32/ hr. to $35.19/hr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open Until Filled. Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88234.

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LEGALS

SR. SUPERINTENDENT OF CUSTODIAL SERVICES FACILITIES MANAGEMENT (FACM)

Responsible for management of the Custodial Services group for Facilities Management which provides cleaning services for approximately 119 buildings encompassing 3,500,000+ cleanable square feet; these spaces include offices, classrooms, lecture halls, and laboratories. Oversees the hiring, evaluation, and discipline of all Custodial staff. Ensures compliance with safety, employee and labor relations, and department regulations. Meets with campus stakeholders to discuss custodial services and to improve campus relations. Provides leadership, direction, support, and supervision to four Principal Supervisors Facilities Management and four Lead Laborers in the Day Crew. Routinely works with Principal Custodial Supervisors to conduct quality control reports to ensure custodial standards are being met. Personally meets with building stakeholders and department representatives as needed to resolve service complaints, schedule special cleaning activities, or resolve special problems. Has responsibility for supplies purchasing and inventory control, cost containment, and evaluation of trial supplies. Coordinates all Custodial safety training with Environmental Health & Safety staff and outside safety trainers. Assists in ensuring all staff members are up‑to‑date on department and University of California required training. Takes a lead role in selecting materials and institutionalizing practices that minimize employee and building occupant exposure to toxic materials and minimizes chemical burden to the environment. Develops and implements cleaning standards. Continually evaluates custodial equipment and procedures to minimize injuries. Takes an active role in increasing the volume of recycled materials from all buildings served by the Custodial Division. As new buildings come on line, assesses cleaning strategies and formulates route assignments to maintain facilities at the desired level and within workload constraints per the current collective bargaining agreement. Oversees and manages custodial work orders in a customer relationship management system to ensure work is completed as requested and on time. Reqs: Bachelor’s Degree in related area and/ or equivalent experience/training; 7‑9 yrs Custodial Experience; 4‑6 yrs Supervision of Custodial Staff; Advanced knowledge of custodial and housekeeping services including knowledge of codes and policies governing bio hazardous and/or hazardous waste; Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences; Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to synthesize information then develop and implement effective / innovative solutions; Demonstrated ability to build effective working relationships and negotiate effectively; Advanced knowledge of fiscal management including budget development, account management and tracking; Advanced knowledge and ability to develop and implement process improvement strategies and initiatives; Demonstrated expertise in human resources management; Ability to lead and manage staff with diverse skills and expertise; Bloodborne pathogen and sharps disposal training. Notes: Master key access to University‑owned residence and/or other facilities; Must maintain a valid California Driver License; Required to hold a valid driver’s license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies and procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program; Satisfactory criminal history background check; Direct responsibility for the care, safety and security of humans or animals; or the safety and security of personal or University property; Responsibility for operating commercial vehicles,

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machinery or toxic systems that could cause accidental death, injury or health problems. Hiring/Budgeted Salary: $125,000.00 to $140,000.00/yr. Full Salary Range: $100,100.00 to $187,500.00/yr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open Until Filled. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 87857.

TRAVEL & ENTERTAINMENT CONTRACTS ANALYST

BUSINESS & FINANCIAL SERVICES (CTLR‑CONTROLLER’S OFFICE) Serves as the primary subject matter expert responsible for the end‑to‑end lifecycle of travel, entertainment, and event‑related agreements across the University. This role blends expert contract negotiation with strict labor and policy compliance, ensuring all university‑sponsored events, catering, lodging, and facility agreements align with institutional standards and legal frameworks. A key focus of this position is managing compliance for UC Contracting Out for Covered Services (Regents Policy 5402 / AFSCME Article 5). The incumbent will proactively partner with Employee & Labor Relations (ELR), Procurement, and external vendors to mitigate financial and legal risks, audit vendor invoices for wage parity, and manage tracking systems like AgileOne. Acting as a trusted strategic partner, this role provides dynamic customer service, develops training materials, manages a digital helpdesk intake system (ServiceNow), and guides campus departments through complex policy landscapes. Pursuant to the delegation of authority authorized by the campus Materiel Manager; negotiates, processes, executes, and issues agreements in compliance with Federal Regulations, State Law, and University policy. Reqs: Required Bachelor’s degree in related area and/ or equivalent experience / training Bachelor’s Degree; 4‑6 yrs At least 5 yrs of experience working within higher education or government operations is required; 4‑6 yrs Proven expertise in drafting, analyzing, and negotiating complex travel, entertainment, lodging, and facility use agreements to minimize institutional liability; 4‑6 yrs Strong working knowledge of labor compliance, collective bargaining agreements, and policies regarding contracting out for covered services (such as UC Regents Policy 5402 or similar state/institutional mandates); 4‑6 yrs Demonstrated ability to review financial terms, audit vendor invoices for wage and benefit parity, and manage advanced spreadsheets for compliance reporting; 4‑6 yrs Proficiency in managing digital contract intake queues (such as ServiceNow) and centralized compliance tracking databases (such as AgileOne); 4‑6 yrs Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a track record of partnering effectively with Risk Management, Legal Counsel, and Labor Relations departments. Notes: Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employee sponsorship; Form 700 Statement of Economic Interests Filer; Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/Budgeted Salary Range: $81,600 to $98,150/yr. Full Salary Range: $81,600 to $147,800/yr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Application review begins 8/31/26. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88188.

ADMINISTER OF ESTATE NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: MARGARET A. MEAD AKA MARGARET ANN MEAD CASE NO. 26PR00371 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of MARGARET A. MEAD AKA MARGARET ANN MEAD. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by CHRISTOPHER R. HUFNAGEL in the Superior Court of California, County of SANTA BARBARA. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that CHRISTOPHER R. HUFNAGEL be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 09/17/26 at 9:00AM in Dept. SB 5 located at 1100 ANACAPA STREET, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner GAMBLE T. PARKS ‑ SBN 230431 FENNEMORE LLP 1006 SANTA BARBARA STREET

SANTA BARBARA CA 93101 Telephone (805) 420‑6010 8/13, 8/20, 8/27/26 CNS‑4067566# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: DONNA RAE BLEVINS No.: 26PR00282 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: DONNA RAE BLEVINS A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: CHRISTOPHER POPP in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara. THE PETITION requests that (name): CHRISTOPHER POPP be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The Independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 9/10/2026 AT 9:00 a.m. Dept: 5 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, located at 1100 Anacapa Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Anacapa Division. IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58 (b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special notice form is available from the court clerk. Angela Braun, Executive Officer 8/06/2026 by Monica Buenrostro, Deputy. Attorney for Petitioner: Robert B. Locke; 5290 Overpass Rd. Suite 204 Santa Barbara, CA 93111; 805‑683‑1459 Published: Aug 13, 20, 27 2026. NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: PETRA E. LOWEN‑STRAUCHMAN No.: 26PR00384 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: PETRA E. LOWEN‑STRAUCHMAN A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: QUICHEETA K. LOWEN‑DIAZ in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara. THE PETITION requests that (name): QUICHEETA K. LOWEN‑DIAZ be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 9/17/2026 AT 9:00 a.m. Dept: SB 5 SUPERIOR

COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, located at 1100 Anacapa Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Anacapa Division. IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58 (b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special notice form is available from the court clerk. Angela Braun, Executive Officer 8/07/2026 by Kim Gallegos, Deputy. Attorney for Petitioner: Connor C. Cote, Esq., P.O. Box 2086, Santa Barbara, CA 93120; 805‑452‑4689. Published: Aug 13, 20, 27 2026. NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: MARCIA MAE PEARSON CASE NO. 26PR00370 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of MARCIA MAE PEARSON. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by TIMOTHY MORRIS in the Superior Court of California, County of SANTA BARBARA. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that TIMOTHY MORRIS be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 09/10/26 at 9:00AM in Dept. SB 5 located at 1100 ANACAPA STREET, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93121 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California

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LEGALS (CONT.) Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner YONA CONZEVOY ‑ SBN 233055 LAW OFFICES OF YONA CONZEVOY, P.C. 9100 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD, SUITE 725 E. BEVERLY HILLS CA 90212 Telephone (323) 813‑8223 8/13, 8/20, 8/27/26 CNS‑4067556# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: FRED NORMAN GAEDEN No.: 26PR00382 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: FRED NORMAN GAEDEN aka FREDDIE NORMAN GAEDEN A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: KAREN L. SHAW in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara. THE PETITION requests that (name): KAREN L. SHAW be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The Independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 09/17/2026 at 9:00 a.m. Dept: 5 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, located at 1100 Anacapa Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101. ANACAPA DIVISION IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58 (b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided

in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special notice form is available from the court clerk. Angela Braun, Executive Officer 08/07/2026 by Kim Gallegos, Deputy. Attorney for Petitioner: John A. Berryhill 1505 East Valley Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93108; 805‑969‑4451 Published: Aug 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: JEANINE G. SWIFT CASE NO. 26PR00386 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of JEANINE G. SWIFT. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by SUSAN RACHEL SWIFT ARNALL in the Superior Court of California, County of SANTA BARBARA. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that SUSAN RACHEL SWIFT ARNALL be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as

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follows: 09/24/26 at 9:00AM in Dept. SB5 located at 1100 ANACAPA ST., SANTA BARBARA, CA 93121‑1107 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner PHILIP A. ZAMPIELLO, ESQ. SBN 198723 MCGARRIGLE KENNEY & ZAMPIELLO, APC 9600 TOPANGA CANYON BLVD., #200 CHATSWORTH CA 91311 Telephone (818) 998‑3300 8/27, 9/3, 9/10/26 CNS‑4070163# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: HUNG TRAN No.:

16PR00337 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: HUNG TRAN A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: HIEM TRAN in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara. THE PETITION requests that (name): HIEM TRAN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The Independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 10/01/2026 AT 9:00 a.m. Dept: SB 5 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, located at 1100 Anacapa Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Anacapa Division. IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58 (b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court

a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special notice form is available from the court clerk. Angela Braun, Executive Officer 8/20/2026 by Nicolette Barnard, Deputy. Attorney for Petitioner: Vuong Q. Nguyen, Esq.; 9550 Bolsa Avenue, Unit 224, Westminster, CA 92683; 714‑876‑6786. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10 2026. NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: TED DRAKE No.: 26PR00406 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: TED DRAKE A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: The Church of Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara. THE PETITION requests that (name): MARK LURIE be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The Independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 10/08/2026 at 9:00 a.m. Dept: SB 5 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, located at 1100 Anacapa Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101. ANACAPA DIVISION IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court

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before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58 (b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special notice form is available from the court clerk. Angela Braun, Executive Officer 08/20/2026 by Kim Gallegos, Deputy. Attorney for Petitioner: Dennis Kasper 550 South Hope Street, Suite 2400, Los Angeles, CA 90071; 213‑647‑0005 Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10 2026.

FBN ABANDONMENT STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME The following Fictitious Business Name is being abandoned: HOT WIRE ELECTRIC: 232 West Yanonali Street, Unit B. Santa Barbara, CA 93101 The original statement for use of this Fictitious Business Name was filed 01/05/2022 in the County of Santa Barbara. Original File no. FBN 2022‑0000017. The persons or entities abandoning use of this name are as follows: Kevin Hines 1187 Coast Village Rd Ste I‑209 Santa Barbara, CA 93108 The business was conducted by an A Individual. Registrant commenced to tranact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Dec 28, 2021 Signed by: KEVIN HINES Filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 08/05/26, FBN 2026‑0001999 E30. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in the Office of the County Clerk, Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). Published: Aug

13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME The following Fictitious Business Name is being abandoned: CAL COAST LOCKSMITHS SERVICES: 272 Orange Ave, Suite 1 Goleta, CA 93117 The original statement for use of this Fictitious Business Name was filed 04/09/2024 in the County of Santa Barbara. Original File no. FBN 2024‑0000914. The persons or entities abandoning use of this name are as follows: Avanelle J Gutow (same address) Schuyler W Covert (same address) The business was conducted by an A General Partnership. Registrant commenced to tranact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A Signed by: AVA COVERT FKA AVANELLE GUTOW/ GENERAL PARTNER Filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 08/13/26, FBN 2026‑0002051 E76. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in the Office of the County Clerk, Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). Published: Aug 20, 27. Sep 3, 10 2026. STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME The following Fictitious Business Name is being abandoned: SHEAR ARTISTRY: 271 North Fairview Ave,. Ste 102 Goleta, CA 93117 The original statement for use of this Fictitious Business Name was filed 08/08/2025 in the County of Santa Barbara. Original File no. FBN 2025‑0001885. The persons or entities abandoning use of this name are as follows: Avanelle J Gutow (same address) Schuyler W Covert (same address) The business was conducted by an A Individual. Registrant commenced to tranact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 01, 1999 Signed by: SUSAN CARRERA Filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 08/18/26, FBN 2026‑0002082 E30. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in the Office of the County Clerk, Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026.

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INDEPENDENT.COM INDEPENDENT.COM AUGUST 27, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

53 53

INDEPENDENT CLASSIFIEDS

LEGALS (CONT.) STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CITOTAKU: 1128 Oriole Rd Montecito, CA 93108; Brandon S Nebeling (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: BRANDON NEBELING/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 28, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001946. Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0001810 The following person(s) is doing business as: TAYTER10’S, 180 AVENUE OF THE FLAGS, BUELLTON, CA 93427, County of SANTA BARBARA MATHEW TORRES, 180 AVENUE OF THE FLAGS, BUELLTON, CA 93427 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on JUN 14, 2026 /s/ MATHEW TORRES, OWNER This statement was filed with the

County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 07/16/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 8/6, 8/13, 8/20, 8/27/26 CNS‑4064386# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0001798 The following person(s) is doing business as: CARP LIFE, 4880 SANDYLAND RD, APT 4, CARPINTERIA, CA 93013 , County of SANTA BARBARA. M.E. RETAIL LLC, 4880 SANDYLAND RD APT 4, CARPINTERIA, CA 93013 This business is conducted by A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on JULY 26, 2025 /s/ MICHAEL EPPS, MEMBER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 07/15/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 8/6, 8/13, 8/20, 8/27/26 CNS‑4063789# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as:

PHONE 805-965-5205

AMARILLOMOSTAZA: 418 W. Islay St. B Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Yareli M Cruz Rodriguez (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: YARELI CRUZ RODRIGUEZ with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 10, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001757. Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DMINI CREATIONS: 5405 Tree Farm Lane, Unit 101 Santa Barbara, CA 93111; Diana M Macias (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: DIANA MACIAS with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 30, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 49. FBN Number: 2026‑0001966. Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BONITA BY IZA: 1668 N Refugio Rd Santa Ynez,

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: VERO TRADE: 520 W Gutierrez St Apt D Santa Barbara,

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM (CDBG) 2025-2026 Draft Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report ATTENTION: The meeting will be held in person and via the Zoom platform. The public may also view the meeting on Goleta Channel 19 and/or online at https:// cityofgoleta.org/goletameetings. cityofgoleta.org/goletameetings NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Goleta will conduct a hybrid public hearing on the date and time set forth below to consider the draft Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) for the 2025-2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program year. The date and time of the City Council meeting is: Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 5:30 PM Goleta City Hall, 130 Cremona Drive, Goleta, CA, 93117 and Teleconference Meeting; this meeting will be held in person and via Zoom (with detailed instructions for participation included on the posted agenda).

Pursuant to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations, the City of Goleta has prepared the draft Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) for the 2025-2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program year. The CAPER provides an assessment of the City’s performance in meeting Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026 housing and community development goals as outlined in the previously adopted 2025-2026 Action Plan. The City of Goleta encourages participation in the CDBG process. A copy of the CAPER is required to be made available to the public for review and comment for a fifteen (15) day period. The draft CAPER will be available for public review from September 4, 2026, to September 22, 2026, via the City’s website at www. cityofgoleta.org/grants, and copies will be available for review upon request at cityofgoleta.org/grants Goleta City Hall, 130 Cremona Drive, Suite B, Goleta. All interested citizens and agencies are invited to attend the public hearing and/or submit comments on the draft CAPER. Comments should be submitted to: City of Goleta, Neighborhood Services Department, Attn: Cassidy Le Air, 130 Cremona Drive, Goleta, CA 93117 or emailed to CityGrants@CityofGoleta.gov by Noon on September 22, 2026. PUBLIC COMMENT: Interested persons are encouraged to provide public comments in person during the public hearing or virtually through the Zoom webinar, by following the instructions listed on the City Council meeting agenda. Written comments may be submitted prior to the hearing by e-mailing the City Clerk at CityClerkGroup@CityofGoleta.gov. Written comments will be distributed to Council and published on the City’s Meeting and Agenda page. FOR PROJECT INFORMATION: For further information on the CAPER or CDBG program, contact Cassidy Le Air, Senior Management Analyst at (805) 690-5126 or CityGrants@CityofGoleta.gov CityGrants@CityofGoleta.gov. For inquiries in Spanish, please contact Leonel Mendoza-Diaz at (805) 961-7558 or LMendoza-Diaz@CityofGoleta.gov LMendoza-Diaz@CityofGoleta.gov. Staff reports and documents will be posted approximately 72 hours before the hearing on the City’s website at www.cityofgoleta.org www.cityofgoleta.org. Note: If you challenge the City’s final action on this Project in court, you may be limited to only those issues you or someone else raised in written or oral testimony and/or evidence provided to the City on or before the date of the public hearing (Government Code Section 65009(b) [2]). Note: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and the ADA Amendment Act of 2008, if you need assistance to participate in this hearing, please contact the City Clerk’s Office, at (805) 961-7505. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the hearing will enable City staff to make reasonable arrangements. If you need special assistance to contact City staff, please call 711 for the California Relay Service (CRS) for hearing-impaired TTY/TDD. Date of Publication: August 27, 2026 (Santa Barbara Independent) 54

THE INDEPENDENT

AUGUST 27, 2026

CA 93460; Izabella P Alvaro (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: IZABELLA ALVARO/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 23, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 4. FBN Number: 2026‑0001907. Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: TRADETALKCLUB: 7940 Rio Vista Dr Goleta, CA 93117; Jennifer P Lilienstein (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 1, 2026. Filed by: JENNIFER P LILIENSTEIN/ FOUNDER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 76. FBN Number: 2026‑0001874. Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL Hybrid Public Meeting – Held in Person and via Zoom Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 5:30 pm

MEETING DATE/TIME: MEETING LOCATION:

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E M A I L A D V E R T I S I N G @ I N D E P E N D E N T. C O M

CA 93101; Andrea Faccetta (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: ANDREA FACCETTA with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 49. FBN Number: 2026‑0001874. Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026.

93111 This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: MELANIE TENG/CEO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 29, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0001959. Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ALLEMAN STUDIO: 224 Barranca Ave, Apt 4 Santa Barbara, CA 93109; Ellen A Alleman (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 16, 2026. Filed by: ELLEN ALLEMAN with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 20, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001863. Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RIVIERA CONCIERGE MEDICINE: 504 W. Pueblo Street, Suite 301B Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Prithvi Pande (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 14, 2026. Filed by: PRITHVI PANDE/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 17, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 4. FBN Number: 2026‑0001834. Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/ are doing business as: SOLEI HOUSE: 3504 State Street Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Red Thread Ventures Inc. 568 Ripley Street Santa Barbara, CA

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0001910 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Heritage Villas, 300 Burton Mesa

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - Design Review Board Hybrid Public Hearing – In Person and via Zoom Goleta City Hall – Council Chambers 130 Cremona Drive, Suite B, Goleta, CA 93117 Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 3:00 P.M. ATTENTION: The meeting will be held in person and via the Zoom platform. The public may also view the meeting on Goleta Channel 19 and/or online at https:// www.cityofgoleta.org/goletameetings. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Design Review Board (DRB) of the City of Goleta will conduct a public hearing for the projects listed below, with the date, time, and location of the DRB public hearing set forth above. The agenda for the hearing, including how to participate virtually in the hearing via a Zoom link, will also be posted on the City website at least 72 hours before the hearing (www. cityofgoleta.org). cityofgoleta.org For Conceptual/Preliminary/Final Review: Gift Smoke Shop Signage and California Environmental Quality Act 5858 Hollister Avenue (APN 071-053-024) Case Nos. 26-0021-ZC/26-0015-DRB Triant 2nd story residential addition and California Environmental Quality Act 7289 Tuolumne Drive (APN 077-093-003) Case Nos. 26-0008-LUP/ 26-0013-DRB Frangie Residential First & Second Story addition and California Environmental Quality Act 5864 Via Fiori (APN 069-660-009) Case Nos. 26-0012-LUP/26-0017-DRB Adams Residence Addition and Setback Modification and California Environmental Quality Act 7513 Carlisle Way (APN 079-454-004) Case Nos. 26-0002-MOD/26-0013-LUP/26-0021-DRB For Conceptual/Preliminary Review: 46 Townhomes Mixed-Use Project 5955 Calle Real (APN 069-110-018) Case Nos. 25-0010-DP/25-0044-DRB/25-0004-SUB/26-0014-LUP/26-0015LUP PUBLIC COMMENT: Interested people are encouraged to provide public comments during the public hearing in person or virtually through the Zoom webinar, by following the instructions listed on the Design Review Board meeting agenda. Written comments may be submitted prior to the hearing by emailing the Planning and Environmental Review Department at PERmeetings@cityofgoleta. gov. Written comments will be distributed to the Design Review Board and gov published on the City’s Meeting and Agenda page. FOR PROJECT INFORMATION: For further information on the project, contact Mary Chang, at (805) 961-7567 or mchang@cityofgoleta.gov mchang@cityofgoleta.gov. Para consultas en español, comuníquese con Marcos Martinez al (805) 562-5500 o mmartinez@ cityofgoleta.gov. Staff reports and documents will be posted approximately 72 cityofgoleta.gov hours before the hearing on the City’s website at www.cityofgoleta.gov www.cityofgoleta.gov. In accordance with Gov. Code Section 65103.5, only non-copyrighted plans or plans that the designer has given permission have been published on the City’s website. The full set of plans is available for review at the Planning Counter during counter hours or by contacting the staff member listed for the item 805-9617543. Note: If you challenge the nature of the above action in court, you may be limited to only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City on or before the date of the hearing (Government Code Section 65009(b)(2)). Note: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need assistance to participate in the hearing, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (805) 9617505 or cityclerkgroup@cityofgoleta.gov cityclerkgroup@cityofgoleta.gov. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the hearing will enable City staff to make reasonable arrangements. Publish: Santa Barbara Independent 08/27/2026

Blvd, Lompoc, CA 93436 County of SANTA BARBARA Mailing Address: 1667 E Lincoln Ave, Orange, CA 92865 Investment Concepts Inc, 1667 E Lincoln Ave, Orange, CA 92865 This business is conducted by a Limited Partnership The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/28/2011. S/ Rhonda Geukens, Corporate Secretary ‑ Investment Concepts Inc This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 07/23/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 8/6, 8/13, 8/20, 8/27/26 CNS‑4064738# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CONSTRUCTIVE: 830 Fortuna Ln. Goleta, CA 93117; Power Wave Holdings LLC 2108 N St Ste N Sacramento, CA 95816 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 01, 2026. Filed by: JOHN KUBIAK/MANAGING MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0001879. Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RODRIGO GIMENEZ CONSULTING: 246 Chickasaw Street Ventura, CA 93001; Carlos Rodrigo Gimenez (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 06, 2026. Filed by: CARLOS RODRIGO GIMENEZ with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 30, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 76. FBN Number: 2026‑0001967. Published: Aug 13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0001953 The following person(s) is doing business as: HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF VENTURA AND SANTA BARBARA 2895 LOMA VISTA RD, SUIТЕ В, VENTURA CA 93003 County of VENTURA. VENTURA AND SANTA BARBARA SERVICES LLC 2895 LOMA VISTA RD, SUIТЕ В, VENTURA CA 93003 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. VENTURA AND SANTA BARBARA SERVICES LLC /S/ BROOKS MARSHALL, PRESIDENT This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 07/29/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 8/13, 8/20, 8/27, 9/3/26 CNS‑4064416# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LARS DESIGN: 621 North Y St. Lompoc, CA 93436; Leslie A Robinson‑Stone (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Nov 1, 2003. Filed by: LESLIE A. ROBINSON‑STONE with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 03, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001981.

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LEGALS (CONT.) Published: Aug 13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: KORE PSYCHOTHERAPY: 1235 Coast Village Rd, Suite E Santa Barbara, CA 93108; Nicole LM Harman PO Box 30493 Santa Barbara, CA 93130 This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 31, 2026. Filed by: NICOLE HARMAN with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 03, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001984. Published: Aug 13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RIP CURL GARDENS: 38 Rip Curl Place Goleta, CA 93117; Karl D Rider (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 01, 2026. Filed by: KARL RIDER/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 31, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0001977. Published: Aug 13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0001952 The following person(s) is doing business as: AZURA, 2105 LAGUNA ST SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101, County of SANTA BARBARA. ALEXANDRE PAUL, 2105 LAGUNA STREET, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on NOT APPLICABLE /s/ ALEXANDRE PAUL This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 07/29/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 8/13, 8/20, 8/27, 9/3/26 CNS‑4068597# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MI GUSTO AUTO: 3890 Via Real, Suite G Carpinteria, CA 93013; Javier Limon (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 03, 2026. Filed by: JAVIER LIMON/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 3, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 76. FBN Number: 2026‑0001987. Published: Aug 13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HOKU FINANCIAL PARTNERS: 1187 Coast Village Road, I‑395 Santa Barbara, CA 93108; The Omdahl Group, Inc. (same address) This business is conducted by A Corportion Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 28, 2026. Filed by: JEFFREY M OMDAHL/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 29, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0001958. Published: Aug 13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: COASTLINE EQUIPMENT: 6242 Paramount Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90805; Bragg Inbestment Company, Inc. (same address) This business is conducted by

A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 30, 2026. Filed by: M. SCOTT BRAGG/PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 6, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002006. Published: Aug 13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LAW OFFICE OF SEANA B THOMAS, APC: 15 W. Carrillo St Ste 247 Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Law Office Of Seana B Thomas, APC (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Oct 25, 2016. Filed by: SEANA B THOMAS/ PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 23, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 4. FBN Number: 2026‑0001904. Published: Aug 13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HOT WIRE ELECTRIC: 1120 Cliff Dr. Santa Barbara, CA 93109; Kevin Hines Inc. (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: KEVIN HINES/CEO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 8, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001998. Published: Aug 13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: YOUR PRINT ADVANTAGE: 70 South Kellogg Ave Goleta, CA 93117; Boone Printing And Graphics, Inc. (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: CHRISTOPHER OCHSNER/PRODUCTION MANAGER AND BORD MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 10, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002019. Published: Aug 13, 20, 27. Sep 3 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0001988 The following person(s) is doing business as: AIR‑VOL BLOCK, LLC DBA AIR VOL BLOCK, 2150 DOUGLAS BLVD., SUITE 260 ROSEVILLE, CA 95661 County of PLACER Registrant(s): AIR‑VOL BLOCK, LLC 2150 DOUGLAS BLVD., SUITE 260 ROSEVILLE, CA 95661 State of Inc./Org./Reg: CALIFORNIA This business is conducted by a Limted Liability Compаnу. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on July 01, 2022 AIR‑VOL BLOCK, LLC /S/ JUAN P. ALDRETE, CFO This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 08/04/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 8/20, 8/27, 9/3, 9/10/26 CNS‑4067673# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0001988 The following person(s) is doing business as: AIR‑VOL BLOCK, LLC DBA AIR VOL BLOCK, 2150 DOUGLAS BLVD., SUITE 260 ROSEVILLE,

CA 95661 County of PLACER Registrant(s): AIR‑VOL BLOCK, LLC 2150 DOUGLAS BLVD., SUITE 260 ROSEVILLE, CA 95661 State of Inc./Org./Reg: CALIFORNIA This business is conducted by a Limted Liability Compаnу. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on July 01, 2022 AIR‑VOL BLOCK, LLC /S/ JUAN PALDRETE, CFO This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 08/04/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 8/20, 8/27, 9/3, 9/10/26 CNS‑4067673# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CAL COAST LOCKSMITHS, CAL COAST LOCKSMITH : 272 Orange Ave Suite #1 Goleta, CA 93117; Cal Coast Locksmith Services LLC (same address) This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 1, 2026. Filed by: AVANELLE COVERT/ PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 13, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 76. FBN Number: 2026‑0002052. Published: Aug 20, 27. Sep 3, 10 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DOCOO 805 DOCUMENT CONSULTING : 2046 Modoc Rd, Apt 22 Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Ana L Rios Suaste (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: ANA LILIA RIOS SUASTE/PROPIETARIO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 11, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002033. Published: Aug 20, 27. Sep 3, 10 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ONE STOP HANDYMAN: 805 W Sola St Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Jesus S Cuevas PO Box 90937 Santa Barbara, CA 93190 This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 15, 2021. Filed by: JESUS S CUEVAS/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 13, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001780. Published: Aug 20, 27. Sep 3, 10 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SHEAR ARTISTRY: 271 N Fairview Avenue, Suite 102 Goleta, CA 93101; Kendra R Gomez (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 13, 2026. Filed by: KENDRA GOMEZ/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 17, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002071. Published: Aug 20, 27. Sep 3, 10 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ELEMENTS EMDR THERAPY AND TRAINING: 629 State Street, #249 Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Christina Viani Family Therapy, Inc. 3463 State Street #219 Santa Barbara, CA 93105 This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant

commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: CHRISTINA VIANI/SECRETARY with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 12, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002038. Published: Aug 20, 27. Sep 3, 10 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DIAL LENDING: 224 Anacapa St, 2A Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Dial Lending LLC 1187 Coast Village Road Ste 230 Santa Barbara, CA 93108 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Feb 1, 2026. Filed by: JAMES EVANS/SECERTARY with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 17, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002076. Published: Aug 20, 27. Sep 3, 10 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ROEMERIA BLOOM BAR, ROEMERIA MERCANTILE: 215 East Victoria Street, Apt B Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Whitney H Roemer (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: WHITNEY ROEMER/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 6, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002010. Published: Aug 20, 27. Sep 3, 10 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SERENADE BY ELLE: 1071 Veronica Springs Road Santa Barbara, CA 93109; Laurie A Starks (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 31, 2026. Filed by: LAURIE A STARKS with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 31, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 81. FBN Number: 2026‑0001972. Published: Aug 20, 27. Sep 3, 10 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: POSTAL ANNEX #12003: 85 W Highway 246 Buellton, CA 93427; Captmat Shipping Inc. (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 19, 2026. Filed by: MATHEW CURTO/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002122. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0002027 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: THE NAILSPA, 4419 HOLLISTER AVE, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93110 County of SANTA BARBARA YOULING PENG, 4419 HOLLISTER AVE, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93110 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. S/ YOULING PENG This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara

County on 08/11/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 8/27, 9/3, 9/10, 9/17/26 CNS‑4065828# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0001965 The following person(s) is doing business as: EMCOR SERVICES MESA ENERGY 1120 MARK AVE. CARPINTERIA CA 93013 County of SANTA BARBARA. MESA ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC. 301 MERRITT 7, 6TH FLR. 6TH FLOOR NORWALK CT 06851 This business is conducted by A CORPORATION. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 08/15/2016 MESA ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC. /S/ THOMAS HIEBERT, VICE PRESIDENT This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 07/30/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 8/27, 9/3, 9/10, 9/17/26 CNS‑4069395# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: COTE & CARRY: 1485 East Valley Road, Suite 12 Santa Barbara, CA 93108; MC Swan Inc. PO Box 5154 Santa Barbara, CA 93150 This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 19, 2026. Filed by: M CLARE SWAN/PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002125. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BLUE TERRAPIN: 802 Kentia Ave Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Ofer Amir (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 13, 2026. Filed by: OFER AMIR with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 17, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002070. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ALIGN SPEECH THERAPY: 1027 Chino St Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Julia C Tomasulo (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: JULIA C TOMASULO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 17, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002073. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SAN ZEPHYRINO PARTNERS: 1130 Del Sol Avenue Santa Barbara, CA 93109; Steven H Campbell (same address) Natasha H Campbell (same address) This business is conducted by A General Partnership Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: STEVEN H CAMPBELL/PARTNERSHIP with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 10, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002020.

Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/ are doing business as: ELDER FITNESS ADVOCATES: 621 North Y St. Lompoc, CA 93436; Elder Fitness Advocates (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 08, 2026. Filed by: LESLIE ROBINSON‑STONE/ PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 19, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002095. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GRAN LAVADO: 1511 S Broadway Santa Maria, CA 93454; Lou’s Laundry LLC 791 Price Street #679 Prismo Beach, CA 93449 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: LOUIS EISENBERGER/MANAGING MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 19, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002105. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BUCKLE UP!: 5314 Orchard Park Ln Santa Barbara, CA 93111; Traci Russell (same address) Natasha Kucherenko (same address)This business is conducted by A General Partnership Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 01, 2025. Filed by: TRACI RUSSELL/GENERAL PARTNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 17, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002067. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DIPPED: 6720 Calle Koral 208 Goleta, CA 93117; Lucia G Harris (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 17, 2026. Filed by: LUCIA HARRIS with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 19, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002101. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: FAIRWAY CONSULTING: 810 East Carrillo Street Santa Barbara, CA 93103; Mark T Philibosian (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 07, 2026. Filed by: MARK THOMAS PHILIBOSIAN with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 11, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002035. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: QUICK QUACK CAR WASH: 1423 S Bradley Santa Maria, CA 93103; Quick Quack Car Wash Holdings, LLC 6020 W Oaks Blvd, Ste 300 Rocklin, CA 95765 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 10, 2026. Filed by: THOMAS HOUDEK/CFO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara

County on Aug 12, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 73. FBN Number: 2026‑0002044. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GUARDIAN MARTIAL ARTS: 1107 State St Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Palaestra Leadership Inc. 1010 Newton Rd. Santa Barbara, CA 93103 This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Dec 14, 2024. Filed by: NATHANAEL CHAWKIN/ FOUNDER & CEO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 24, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002134. Published: Aug 27. Sep 3, 10, 17 2026.

NAME CHANGE IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: BONGRAN JIN SUN AKA BONGRAN SUN CASE NUMBER: 26CV04414 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: PETITIONER: BONGRAN JIN SUN AKA BONGRAN SUN A petition has been filed by the above named Petitioner(s) in Santa Barbara Superior Court for decree changing name (s) as follows: PRESENT NAME: BONGRAN JIN SUN AKA BONGRAN SUN PROPOSED NAME: BONGRAN SUN THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing September 18, 2026, 10:00 am, DEPT: 4, SUPERIOR COURT COUNTY OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa Street. Santa Barbara, CA 93101, ANACAPA DIVISION A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published in the Independent, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county, at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition. Dated July 28, 2026, JUDGE Thomas P. Anderle of the Superior Court. Published Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026. IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: WOODWYN KOONS & DMITRI SIEGEL CASE NUMBER: 26CV04911 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: PETITIONER: WOODWYN KOONS & DMITRI SIEGEL A petition has been filed by the above named Petitioner(s) in Santa Barbara Superior Court for decree changing name (s) as follows: PRESENT NAME: JUDE SEQUOIA SIEGEL PROPOSED NAME: BEE SEQUOIA SIEGEL THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing September 28, 2026, 10:00 am, DEPT: 5, SANTA BARBARA SUPERIOR COURT COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa Street., Santa Barbara, CA 93121, A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall

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SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): RUT MEDEL, and DOES 1‑20,

be published in the Independent, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county, at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition. Dated August 11, 2025, JUDGE Colleen K. Sterne of the Superior Court. Published Aug 20, 27. Sep 3, 10 2026.

SUMMONS

YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): OCEANIC ENTERPRISES, INC. (formerly OCEANIC COMPANIES, INC.), OCEANIC SAN DIEGO, L.P. AND MANOJ CHAWLA NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this Summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect

NOTIFICACIÓN DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA CONSEJO MUNICIPAL Reunión Pública Híbrida – En Persona y a Través de Zoom Martes, Septiembre 15, 2026 a las 5:30 PM PROGRAMA DE SUBSIDIOS GLOBALES PARA EL DESARROLLO COMUNITARIO (CDBG) Borrador del Reporte de la Evaluación del Desempeño Anual Consolidado 2025-2026 ATENCIÓN: La reunión se realizará en persona y a través de Zoom. El público también puede ver la reunión en el Canal 19 de Goleta y/o en línea en https:// cityofgoleta.org/goletameetings POR MEDIO DE LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que el Consejo Municipal de la Ciudad de Goleta llevará a cabo una audiencia pública híbrida en la fecha y hora indicadas posteriormente para considerar el Borrador del Reporte de Evaluación del Desempeño Anual Consolidado (CAPER, por sus siglas en inglés) del Programa de Subsidios Globales para el Desarrollo Comunitario (CDBG, por sus siglas en inglés) del Año Fiscal 2025-2026. La fecha y hora de la reunión del Consejo Municipal es: FECHA/HORA DE LA REUNIÓN: Martes, Septiembre 15, 2026 a las 5:30 PM LUGAR DE LA REUNIÓN: Ayuntamiento de la Ciudad de Goleta, 130 Cremona Drive, Goleta, CA, 93117 y reunión por teleconferencia; esta reunión se llevará a cabo en persona y a través de Zoom (con instrucciones detalladas para la participación incluidas en la agenda publicada). En conformidad con los reglamentos del Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de los Estados Unidos (HUD, por sus siglas en inglés), la Ciudad de Goleta ha preparado el Borrador del Reporte de la Evaluación del Desempeño Anual Consolidado (CAPER) del Programa de Subsidios Globales para el Desarrollo Comunitario (CDBG) del Año Fiscal 2025-2026. El CAPER proporciona una evaluación del desempeño de la Ciudad en el cumplimiento de los objetivos de vivienda y desarrollo comunitario del Año Fiscal (FY, por sus siglas en inglés) 20252026 tal y como se describe en el Plan de Acción Anual 2025-2026 previamente adoptado. La Ciudad de Goleta incentiva la participación en el proceso de CDBG. Se requiere que una copia del CAPER esté disponible para el público para su revisión y comentarios por un período de quince (15) días. El Borrador del CAPER estará disponible para su revisión pública a partir del 4 de septiembre de 2026 hasta el 22 de septiembre de 2026. El Borrador del CAPER se publicará en el sitio web de la Ciudad en www.cityofgoleta.org/grants y copias estarán disponibles para revisión en el Ayuntamiento de la Ciudad de Goleta, 130 Cremona Drive, Suite B, Goleta. Todos los ciudadanos y agencias interesados están invitados a asistir a la audiencia pública y/o enviar comentarios sobre el Borrador de CAPER. Los comentarios deben enviarse a: City of Goleta, Neighborhood Services Department, Attn: Cassidy Le Air, 130 Cremona Drive, Goleta, CA 93117 o enviarse por correo electrónico a CityGrants@CityofGoleta.gov antes del mediodía del 22 de septiembre de 2026. COMENTARIOS PÚBLICOS: Se incentiva a las personas interesadas a proporcionar comentarios públicos durante la audiencia pública en persona o virtualmente a través del sitio web de Zoom, siguiendo las instrucciones que figuran en la agenda de la reunión del Consejo Municipal. Los comentarios por escrito se pueden enviar antes de la audiencia enviando un correo electrónico al Secretario Municipal a CityClerkGroup@CityofGoleta.gov. Los comentarios escritos se distribuirán al Consejo y se publicarán en la página de Agenda y Reunión de la Ciudad. PARA INFORMACIÓN DEL PROYECTO: Para obtener más información sobre el CAPER o el programa de CDBG, comuníquese con Cassidy Le Air, Analista Superior de Administración al 805-690-5126 o CityGrants@CityofGoleta.gov CityGrants@CityofGoleta.gov. Para consultas en español, comuníquese con Leonel Mendoza-Diaz al (805) 961-7558 o LMendoza-Diaz@CityofGoleta.gov LMendoza-Diaz@CityofGoleta.gov. Los informes y documentos del personal se publicarán 72 horas antes de la audiencia en el sitio web de la Ciudad en www.cityofgoleta.org www.cityofgoleta.org. Nota: Si usted se opone la acción final de la Ciudad sobre este Proyecto en el tribunal, es posible que se limite únicamente a las cuestiones que usted u otra persona plantearon en la audiencia pública descrita en este aviso o en la correspondencia escrita entregada al Ayuntamiento de la Ciudad en la fecha de la audiencia o antes (Sección 65009(b)(2) del Código de Gobierno). Nota: En conformidad con la Ley de Americanos con Discapacidades (ADA) de 1990 y la Ley de Enmienda a ADA de 2008, si usted necesita asistencia para participar en esta audiencia, por favor comuníquese con la Oficina del Secretario Municipal al (805) 961-7505. La notificación al menos 48 horas antes de la audiencia permitirá que el personal de la Ciudad haga los arreglos razonables. Si necesita asistencia especial para comunicarse con el personal de la Ciudad, llame al 711 para el Servicio de Retransmisión de California (CRS) para personas con discapacidad auditiva TTY/TDD. Fecha de Publicación: agosto 27, 2026

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you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self‑Help C e n t e r ( w w w. c o u r t i n f o . c a . g o v / selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Website (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self‑Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. !ADVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación. Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en el formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 o más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso. The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO 330 W. Broadway.San Diego, CA 92101 CASE NO: (Número del Caso): 25CU033874C The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la dirección, y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante que no tiene abogado es): Michael Wright, Esq.; 5190 Govenor Dr., Suite 207, San Diego, CA 92122 (858) 554‑1830 DATE Fecha): 06/27/2025. Clerk, by (Secretario) /s/ G. Escorcia, Deputy (Adjunto) Published: Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 2026.

TRUSTEE NOTICE APN: 025‑331‑010 TS No.: 26‑ 12483CA TSG Order No.: 260133458‑CA‑VOI NOTICE OF TRUSTEE SALE UNDER DEED OF TRUST YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED JULY 16, 2022. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. Affinia Default Services, LLC, as the duly appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust Recorded July 27, 2022 as Document No.: 2022‑0033787 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Santa Barbara County, California, executed by: Eva M Barberi, a single woman, as Trustor, will be sold AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER for cash (payable in full at time of sale by cash, a cashier’s check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said deed of trust in the property situated in said county and state, and as more fully described in the above referenced deed of trust. Sale Date: September 23, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00 AM Sale Location: At the Main Entrance to the County CourthouseSanta Barbara County Courthouse, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 2 File No.:26‑12483CA The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 343 E Mission St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made in an “AS IS” condition, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to‑wit: $676,735.57 (Estimated). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. It is possible that at the time of sale the opening bid may be less than the total indebtedness due. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice

of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call, (800) 280‑2832 for information regarding the trustee’s sale or visit this internet website, www.auction.com, for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case, T.S.# 26‑12483CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the internet website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (800) 280‑2832, or visit this internet website www.auction.com, using the file number assigned to this case 26‑12483CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. 3 File No.:26‑12483CA If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. For Pre Sale Information Log On To: www.auction.com or Call: (800) 280‑2832. For Post Sale Results please visit www.affiniadefault.com or Call (866) 932‑0360 Dated: July 24, 2026 By: Omar Solorzano Foreclosure Associate Affinia Default Services, LLC 301 E. Ocean Blvd., Suite 1720 Long Beach, CA 90802 (833) 290‑7452 NPP0492052 To: SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT 08/06/2026, 08/13/2026, 08/20/2026 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE T.S.No. 26‑30190‑JP‑ CA Title No. 260151429‑CA‑ VOI A.P.N. 059‑312‑002 ATTENTION RECORDER: THE FOLLOWING REFERENCE TO AN ATTACHED SUMMARY IS APPLICABLE TO THE NOTICE PROVIDED TO THE TRUSTOR ONLY PURSUANT TO CIVIL CODE 2923.3 NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 09/16/1993. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST

YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check(s) drawn on a state or national bank must be made payable to National Default Servicing Corporation, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state; will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made in an “as is” condition, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: Jon David Dunn and Laura Jean Dunn, husband and wife as joint tenants Duly Appointed Trustee: National Default Servicing Corporation Recorded 09/29/1993 as Instrument No. 93‑076135 (or Book, Page) of the Official Records of Santa Barbara County, California. Date of Sale: : 09/02/2026 at 1:00 PM Place of Sale: At the main entrance to the County Courthouse, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 Estimated amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $68,689.48 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 776 El Rodeo Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93110 A.P.N.: 059‑312‑002 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The requirements of California Civil Code Section 2923.5(b)/2923.55(c) were fulfilled when the Notice of Default was recorded. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the

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LEGALS (CONT.) existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, cither of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 866‑ 539‑4173 or visit this internet website www.ndscorp.com/sales, using the file number assigned to this case 26‑30190‑.IP‑CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the internet website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT*: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are a “representative of all eligible tenant buyers” you may be able to purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 888‑264‑4010, or visit this internet website www.ndscorp.com. using the file number assigned to this case 26‑30190‑JP‑CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as a “representative of all eligible tenant buyers” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional , immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. NOTICE: To the extent that the sale is subject to Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (31 C.F.R. Part 1031), purchaser agrees to provide all required information and further agrees to reimburse trustee for any costs, expenses or fees incurred as a result of the collection of such information *Pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code, the potential rights described herein shall apply only to public auctions taking place on or after January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2025, unless later extended. Date: 07/23/2026 National Default Servicing Corporation c/o

Tiffany and Bosco, P.A., its agent, 1455 Frazee Road, Suite 820 San Diego, CA 92108 Toll Free Phone: 888‑ 264‑4010 Sales, Line 866‑539‑ 4173; Sales Website: www.ndscorp.com Connie Hernandez, Trustee Sales Representative A‑4881727 08/06/2026, 08/13/2026, 08/20/2026 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE T.S.No. 26‑00484‑SM‑ CA Title No. DEF‑686619 A.P.N. 055‑221‑010 ATTENTION RECORDER: THE FOLLOWING REFERENCE TO AN ATTACHED SUMMARY IS APPLICABLE TO THE NOTICE PROVIDED TO THE TRUSTOR ONLY PURSUANT TO CIVIL CODE 2923.3 NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 08/05/2021. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check(s) drawn on a state or national bank must be made payable to National Default Servicing Corporation, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state; will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made in an “as is” condition, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: Donna F. Hallenbeck, Trustee of the Hallenbeck Family Revocable Trust dated September 28,2001 and Joseph Neal, an unmarried man Duly Appointed Trustee: National Default Servicing Corporation Recorded 11/05/2021 as Instrument No. 2021‑0077496 (or Book, Page) of the Official Records of Santa Barbara County, California. Date of Sale:: 09/11/2026 at 10:00 AM Place of Sale: At the Main Entrance to the County Courthouse of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 Estimated amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $348,242.76 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 844 laiqua Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93110 A.P.N.: 055‑221‑010 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the

property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The requirements of California Civil Code Section 2923.5(b)/2923.55(c) were fulfilled when the Notice of Default was recorded. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 800‑ 280‑2832 or visit this internet website www.ndscorp.com/sales, using the file number assigned to this case 26‑00484‑SM‑CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the internet website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT*: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are a “representative of all eligible tenant buyers” you may be able to purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 888‑264‑4010, or visit this internet website www.ndscorp.com, using the file number assigned to this case 26‑00484‑SM‑CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee.

Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as a “representative of all eligible tenant buyers” or “eligible bidder,”you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. NOTICE: To the extent that the sale is subject to Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (31 C.F.R. Part 1031), purchaser agrees to provide all required information and further agrees to reimburse trustee for any costs, expenses or fees incurred as a result of the collection of such information *Pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code, the potential rights described herein shall apply only to public auctions taking place on or after January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2025, unless later extended. Date: 07/31/2026 National Default Servicing Corporation c/o Tiffany and Bosco, P.A., its agent, 1455 Frazee Road, Suite 820 San Diego, CA 92108 Toll Free Phone: 888‑ 264‑4010 Sales Line 800‑280‑ 2832; Sales Website: www.ndscorp.com Connie Hernandez, Trustee Sales Representative A‑4882750 08/13/2026, 08/20/2026, 08/27/2026 APN: 043‑152‑013 TS No: CA05000002‑23‑3 TO No: 250187865‑CA‑VOI NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE (The above state‑ ment is made pursuant to CA Civil Code Section 2923.3(d)(1). The Summary will be provided to Trustor‑ (s) and/or vested owner(s) only, pursu‑ ant to CA Civil Code Section 2923.3(d) (2).) YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED October 1, 2018. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On September 11, 2026 at 10:00 AM, At the Main Entrance to the County Courthouse, Santa Barbara County Courthouse, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps, as the duly Appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust recorded on October 2, 2018 as Instrument No. 2018‑0042164, of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Santa Barbara County, California, executed by HECTOR ALESSANDRO CABRERO, A SINGLE MAN AND CLAUDIA MCLAUGHLIN, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN AS JOINT TENANTS, as Trustor(s), in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., as Beneficiary, as nominee for ON Q FINANCIAL, INC. as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER, in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the time of sale, that certain prop‑ erty situated in said County, California describing the land therein as: AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED OF TRUST The property heretofore described is being sold “as is”. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real prop‑ erty described above is purported to be: 1809 SAN ANDRES ST, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101 The undersigned Trustee dis‑ claims any liability for any incorrect‑ ness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made with‑ out covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remain‑ ing principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with

interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obliga‑ tions secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of this Notice of Trustee’s Sale is estimated to be $537,827.54 (Estimated). However, prepayment premiums, accrued inter‑ est and advances will increase this figure prior to sale. Beneficiary’s bid at said sale may include all or part of said amount. In addition to cash, the Trustee will accept a cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the California Financial Code and authorized to do business in California, or other such funds as may be acceptable to the Trustee. In the event tender other than cash is accepted, the Trustee may withhold the issuance of the Trustee’s Deed Upon Sale until funds become avail‑ able to the payee or endorsee as a matter of right. The property offered for sale excludes all funds held on account by the property receiver, if applicable. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. Notice to Potential Bidders If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a Trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a Trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder's office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same Lender may hold more than one mortgage or Deed of Trust on the property. Notice to Property Owner The sale date shown on this Notice of Sale may be postponed one or more times by the Mortgagee, Beneficiary, Trustee, or a court, pursu‑ ant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that infor‑ mation about Trustee Sale postpone‑ ments be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may visit the Internet Website address www. Auction.com or call Auction.com at 800.280.2832 for information regard‑ ing the Trustee’s Sale for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case, CA05000002‑23‑3. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. Notice to Tenant NOTICE TO TENANT FOR FORECLOSURES AFTER JANUARY 1, 2021 You may have a right to pur‑ chase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exer‑

cising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 800.280.2832, or visit this internet website www.Auction. com, using the file number assigned to this case CA05000002‑23‑3 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a writ‑ ten notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attor‑ ney or appropriate real estate profes‑ sional immediately for advice regard‑ ing this potential right to purchase. Effective March 1, 2026, new federal regulations (89 Fed. Reg. 70.258) may impact residential real property (1‑4 residential units) title transfers to covered entities trusts, with report‑ ing requirements unless exempt. https://www.federalregister‑gov/ documents/2024/08/29/2024‑19198/ anti‑money‑launder‑ ing‑regulations‑for‑residen‑ tial‑real‑estate‑transfers Date: August 7, 2026 MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA05000002‑23‑3 17100 Gillette Ave Irvine, CA 92614 Phone: 949‑252‑8300 TDD: 711 949.252.8300 By: Loan Quema, Authorized Signatory SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ONLINE AT www.Auction.com FOR AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: Auction.com at 800.280.2832 Order Number 127401, Pub Dates: 08/20/2026, 08/27/2026, 09/03/2026, SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT T.S. No. 146884‑CA APN: 065‑620‑019 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 2/9/2022. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER On 9/23/2026 at 10:00 AM, CLEAR RECON CORP, as duly appoint‑ ed trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust recorded 3/14/2022 as Instrument No. 2022‑0012811 of Official Records in the office of the County Recorder of Santa Barbara County, State of CALIFORNIA exe‑ cuted by: TOPAZ SUMMERFIELD, A SINGLE WOMAN WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON A STATE OR NATIONAL BANK, A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, OR A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, SAVINGS ASSOCIATION, OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION 5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE; AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, SANTA BARBARA COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 1100 ANACAPA STREET, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101 all right, title and inter‑ est conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the prop‑ erty situated in said County and State described as: MORE ACCURATELY DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other com‑ mon designation, if any, of the real property described above is pur‑ ported to be: 472 SAN RICARDO DR, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93111‑2539 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be held, but without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession, condition, or encumbrances, includ‑ ing fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to pay the remain‑ ing principal sums of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the prop‑ erty to be sold and reasonable esti‑ mated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $110,269.25 If the Trustee is unable to convey

title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned or its predecessor caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are con‑ sidering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this informa‑ tion. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, ben‑ eficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that infor‑ mation about trustee sale postpone‑ ments be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (855) 313‑3319 or visit this Internet website www.clearreconcorp.com, using the file number assigned to this case 146884‑CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not imme‑ diately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postpone‑ ment information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: Effective January 1, 2021, you may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the prop‑ erty if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (855) 313‑3319, or visit this internet website www. clearreconcorp.com, using the file number assigned to this case 146884‑CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attor‑ ney or appropriate real estate profes‑ sional immediately for advice regard‑ ing this potential right to purchase. FOR SALES INFORMATION: (855) 313‑3319 CLEAR RECON CORP 3333 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 225 San Diego, California 92108. Published Aug 27. Sep 3, 10 2026.

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