Carpinteria Magazine

wINTER 2020

winter2020

MAGAZINE

livingcommunityartshoppingdining

CARPINTERIA

CARPINTERIA MAGAZINE

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Your health. Simplified.

Sansum Clinic provides complete and coordinated care with more than 30 medical specialties, convenient Urgent Care, and state-of-the-art outpatient surgical care — close to home.

Our secure and easy-to-use technology including MyChart electronic health record, mobile access and custom apps, online payment portal and appointment reminders by text keep you connected to your healthcare from anywhere at anytime.

Carpinteria Family Medicine 4806 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013 (805) 566-5080 Monday - Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Friday 8:00 am to 12 noon

Providing primary care for you and your entire family in Carpinteria.

Call 1 (800) 4-SANSUM SansumClinic.org

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Do you need help preparing your home for sale?

Let us help you maximize your return with Compass Concierge. Not only will we lend you a hand through the process, Compass covers the upfront cost of improvements with zero interest to you!

Contact us to learn more.

LANDSCAPING I M P ROVE M E N TS

S T R AT E G I C S TAG I N G

U P DAT E D F LO O R I N G

Jon-Ryan Schlobohm

schlobohm-hodson.com

— Broker Associate 805.450.3307 jr@jon-ryan.com DRE 01876237

Kirk G. Hodson

— Realtor 805.886.6527 kirk@kirkhodson.com DRE 01908650

Rules & Exclusions apply. Compass offers no guarantee or warranty of results. Subject to additional terms and conditions.

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Left to right: Clyde Freeman, Daniel Estrada, Ben Scott

“We take pride in what we do, and that ’s to serve the Carpinteria community.”

- Daniel Estrada VP / Branch Manager

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Experience for yourself what the Best Bank in town can do for you.

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For over 40 years, Montecito Bank & Trust has offered our clients personalized banking and customized solutions because we understand that the quality of what you choose matters.

Residential Lending

WINNER

2014 – 2019

2017 Bank of the Year - Western Bankers Association 2019 Best Mortgage Company - Santa Barbara Independent

montecito.bank • (805) 963-7511 Solvang • Goleta • Mesa • Santa Barbara • Montecito Carpinteria • Ventura • Camarillo • Westlake Village AD_Carp Mag_Carp Branch_092519.indd 1 CarpMag_WINTER2020.indd 2

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gary goldberg Realtor | Broker | Attorney

Now enjoying my 25th year of serving Carpinteria and Santa Barbara as an estate and beach property specialist with over $725,000,000 sold since 2000.

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REAL ESTATE SALES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT VACATION RENTALS gary goldberg, Owner & Broker 1086 Coast Village Road Santa Barbara, California 93108

805.455.8910 | BRE #: 01172139 garygoldberg.net Email: gary@coastalrealty.com

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re buying, selling or vacationing in the Carpinteria or Santa Barbara area, Gary Goldberg provides in-depth assistance for all real estate needs.

Garyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brokerage, locally owned and operated, Coastal Properties has been assisting sellers, buyers and vacationers in the area for nearly 25 years. Our team of experienced and knowledgeable agents specialize in all aspects of real estate, from residential and commercial sales to land development, property management, leasing and vacation rentals.

Gary will carefully guide you throughout your search. We invite you to stop in and experience the friendly, professional and confidential service our company provides.

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classic

MONTECITO BEAUTY 5 B E D R O O M S / 8 B AT H R O O M S / 2 .1 9 A C R E S / P R I VAT E W E L L L I S T E D AT $ 1 5 ,0 0 0 ,0 0 0

DANA ZERTUCHE & LORI BOWLES 805.565.8198 info@Montecito.Associates C OLDWELL BANKER RES I D EN T I A L BROKERA GE

CalRE#01465425 CalRE#01961570

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verifi cation. Real estate agents affi liated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. Š2019 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved.

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NEW HO M E S I N CA R P!

Offering 31 Coastal Farmhouse-inspired flats, townhomes and single family detached homes, Seahouse by Warmington Residential presents an opportunity to own a brand new home in Carpinteria.

ToPOND learn more and join the interest list please visit © 2018 WILLIAM HEZMALHALCH ARCHITECTS, INC. DBA WHA.

www.LiveAtSeahouse.com

The neighborhood is located at 1300 GREEN HERON SPRINGS

Cravens Lane, just CARPINTERIA, CA one and a half miles from the beach and downtown.

2016101 | 06-10-19

Nestled among preserved heritage trees, Seahouse will include a community pavilion and a natural spring at the heart of the neighborhood.

New Luxury Homes in Carpinteria Approx. 1,261 to 2,289 Sq. Ft. 2 to 4 Bedrooms / Smart home technology Private yards / Lifestyle amenities 1300 Cravens Lane, Carpinteria, CA 93013

Call or text for information: 805.833.5870 Four moderate income homes set aside for qualified applicants. Warmington Residential is part of the Warmington group of companies. Square footages are approximate only. Rendering is an artist’s conception and may not be an accurate reflection of all community details, which are subject to change at any time and without prior notice. Prices effective date of publication and subject to change without notice. Models depicted do not reflect racial preference. October 24, 2019 4:40 PM

Seahouse_page_ad_102219.indd 1 BUILDING 4A COLOR SCHEME 2 CarpMag_WINTER2020.indd 6 © 2018 WILLIAM HEZMALHALCH ARCHITECTS, INC. DBA WHA.

GREEN HERON SPRINGS

10/24/19 4:44 PM

CARPINTERIA, CA 2016101 | 06-10-19

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Your homegrown realtor

“Sarah Smith not only knows Carpinteria like no one else, she’s authentic, efficient, smart, hardworking, and the easiest Realtor I’ve ever worked with.

She has gone above and beyond for me and has made my life so much easier!”

— KATE MERRICK

Available properties at LoveCarpinteria.com

Sarah Aresco-Smith DRE Lic. #01484280

•

LIC#01882574

805.252.3868

Sarah@lovecarpinteria.com Seascape Realty

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Cannabis Education & Information Resource Up your Cannabis I.Q.

~Facts over Fear~ COMPLIMENTARY COMMUNITY EVENTS: Leaf Learning Classes Coffee with the Cannabis Farmer Tea and Terpenes In Home & Office Education INDUSTRY CHAMPIONS THROUGH: Community Relations Government Relations Carpinteria Cannabis Business Supporters Information Resource

www.KopSun.com Insta • Pinterest • Twitter • Facebook

805.881.1218

info@KopSun.com

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Super Silver Haze cultivated by Glass House Farms in the Carpinteria Foothills

Just What The Doctor Farmacist Ordered.

Local Farms. Local People. Local Values.

Proudly Supporting Our Local Carpinteria Farmers

The Farmacy Santa Barbara | 21+ Cannabis Shop & Delivery Service 128 W Mission St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 | BCC License No: C10-0000293-LIC

THEFARMACYSB.COM | 805-880-1207 | @THEFARMACYSB NO MEDICAL CARD NEEDED WINTER2020 9

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Update your winter watering schedule by: • Checking soil moisture in your landscape before watering.

• Using the Watering % Adjust guide available weekly at WaterWiseSB.org to change your irrigation controller’s water budget adjustment feature.

• Installing a rain sensor that automatically shuts your irrigation controller OFF when it rains or installing a WaterSense certified Weather Based Irrigation Controller.

Visit CVWD.net for information on water conservation tips and available rebates.

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Buying or selling a home with us is like a walk on the beach!

Seascape Realty Shirley Kimberlin

Terry Stain

Nancy Branigan

Leah Dabney

Stephen Joyce

George Manuras

Sylvia's vast experience and innovative marketing strategies help Sellers get the highest possible price in the shortest possible time.

Seascape Realty View our properties Is Proud Tofor Welcome sale at Look4Seascape Realty.com Sylvia Miller

Sylvia Miller (805) 448-8882

And, her complete representation for Buyers can help you realize the perfect home to meet your needs.

Betsy Ortiz

Betty Lloyd

Sylvia's reputation for outstanding customer service makes her -

Sarah Aresco Smith

THE RIGHT REALTORÂŽ FOR YOU TM

4915-C Carpinteria Ave. â&#x20AC;˘ 805.684.4161

www.santabarbaraconnection.com - sylvia@sanbarb.com

BRE Lic#: 00558548

DRE Lic. #01484280

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We’re proud to use only the leanest meats, tender chicken, fresh seafood, and traditional herbs and spices to create the essence of real Mexican flavor in all our family recipes.

Breakfast • Lunch Dinner • Catering

EVERY ITEM FRESH & MADE-TO-ORDER

FALL IS HERE!

Menudo Saturdays 7 Flavorful Soups Daily

Breakfast All Day • Chile Rellenos • Tortas Hamburgers • Burritos • Carnitas Champurrado Daily • Homemade Corn Tortillas 13 Meat Choices • Fish Tacos

Dine In or To Go: 1-805-684-2212 Open Monday-Saturday 7:30am-8pm

Closed Sundays 4795 Carpinteria Ave. www.reyesmarket.com

4980 Sandyland Rd • Carpinteria 93013 sunsetshorescarp.com

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DANNY’s $2 OFF HanD CarWaSH & DEli

any hand wash* *mention this ad

Unbelievable!

Full On Wash & Wax, starts at $55 Super Clean Exterior Wash starts at $16

Celebrated wok master Lee Tsai Wang brings forth the exotic flavors of Szechuan and Mandarin cuisine in his signature recipes.

“World Famous Tri-Tip Sandwich”

Innovative vegetarian specialties and favorite traditional dishes highlight fresh finds from the local Farmers’ and Fishermans’ Markets.

No MSG.

Daily 8am-5pm 805.684.2711

TAKE OUT • DELIVERY • CATERING (805) 566-3334 Dine in • Deliver • Take out • Cater • Gluten free available Open Monday - Saturday at 11:00 am to 9 pm • Sundays at 4 pm to 9 pm 1025 Casitas Pass Road in Shepard Place Shops

4890 CarpintEria avEnUE DOWntOWn

Mi Fiesta Market & Deli

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER • SEAFOOD • BURGERS • CATERING

SECOND

LOCATION

Creator of the “Best Burrito” in Carpinteria - Adan Morales

EL PARAISO BAR & GRILL

805.648.5003

371 North Ventura Ave. Ventura

TO-GO OR PATIO SEATING • CRAFT BEER • WINE • COFFEE • VAPE PENS, JUICES & MORE!

805-684-2235 • 4502 Carpinteria Ave, Carpinteria Market hours 7:30am -11pm Daily • Deli hours 7:30am-9pm • Sun. 7:30am-8pm moralesadan16

Morales Adan

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Successfully Serving Carpinteria Real Estate for over 28 years

Carolyn Wood-Friedman

SPARK45 Fitness and Physical Therapy 466O Carpinteria Avenue â&#x20AC;˘ 8O5.275.3OOO SPARK 45 provides clients with a welcoming beautiful environment both for fitness and physical therapy in a 2200 ft. studio.

Offering the patented Megaformer workout, Lagree Fitness, indoor cycling and Physical Therapy.

New Client Specials:

3O Day Megaformer Pass: $99 3-Class Pack: $45 1st class: $5

www.spark45.com We accept most major health insurances.

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PLAYA

Beach Lodging ~ Relaxed Luxury

Carpinteria’s Newest

playalodging.com • Reservations: 805.684-6555

April 18, 2020 Creating outdoor spaces that are as artful as they are ecologically sound.

Specializing in California friendly and edible landscapes.

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LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE H OME S

•

VIEWS

•

L IFE ST YL E S

Carpinterias most celebrated Real Estate Advocate for both Buyers and Sellers.

Call Yo and ask her why Y O L A N D A VA N W I N G E R D E N

805.570.4965 Yolanda@AskYo.com

DRE: 01308141

Fine Body Products, Candles, Robes, Loungewear, Jewelry and Purses featuring: Kai, Votivo, Pre De Provence and much more

Serving Carpinteria for over 20 years

910 A Linden Avenue Downtown Carpinteria

805.684.6695

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CARP features

Winter2020

52 RINCON RETREATS: ART AND ENERGY OV ER L A P IN FAMIL Y V AC ATIO N HO MES

When three generations of Burges get together to relax, the destination is Rincon Point. Two parents, five kids, and 14 grandkids periodically escape real life to play in these art-filled homes on the Carpinteria coast.

62 PERFECT PAIRING: L O V E A N D W INE ON TORO CAN YO N R O A D Jenna Jobst and Avi Reichental have a secret to share: there’s a winery in Carpinteria’s backyard! Meet the charming couple at their Toro Canyon Road property where romance and Rieslings run rampant.

68 PARTY GIRL S: THE TRI O T HA T TURNS C ARPINTERIA BL A C K T I E

Behind the scenes of the annual Community Awards Banquet is a small group of tireless women who are relentless in their quest for party perfection. These three collectively have over a half century of dedication to the Carpinteria Valley Chamber of Commerce’s big event.

73 ART FOR A CAUSE

Three artists have interpreted the Wardholme Torrey Pine.

Three art lovers will win these pieces. One library and all of Carpinteria will benefit from this artful twist on fundraising.

78 THINKING OUTSIDE T HE PO T

Rootless and wild, air plants are the hottest trend in home and garden decor. At Air Plant Alchemy on Casitas Pass Road, thousands of these oddities flourish from floor to ceiling.

86 C OMMUNITY REACH ON THE FRANKL IN TR A I L

Diabolic fire and ravaging floods did dastardly damage to Franklin Trail two years ago. From the mud and ashes, community members rebuilt this well-loved route into the foothills and beyond.

96 TAMAL ES: L A COC INA DE AMOR

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One of the reasons that María Lupe Gutierrez’s tamales are so delicious is that each one is stuffed and hand-wrapped with love. Lupe and her daughters cook their famous tamales and share their recipes with Carpinteria Magazine.

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P OPEN FOR BUSINESS! 805-684-7789 â&#x20AC;˘ carpinteriaartscenter.org 865 Linden Avenue â&#x20AC;˘ Downtown Carpinteria

#carpinteriaarts

Our mission is to be a premier small-town community arts center by: Fostering diverse community involvement Nurturing the creative process and its appreciation Providing a variety of educational experiences Serving as the vibrant heartbeat of the Carpinteria community

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MAG departments

96

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FROM T HE E DIT OR

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93013

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CARPE DIE M

58

I SEA WAVES

84

WILD IN CARPINTERIA

92

Q&A: LT. “BUTCH” ARNOLDI

100

RE COMME NDE D E ATS RE ST AU RANT GU IDE

101

RE AL E ST AT E RE VIE W

110

CONT RIBU T ORS

112

FINAL FRAME ON T H E COVE R

YULETIDE POOLS Tide pools decked in sea stars and eel grass are a festive feast for the eyes, and one that’s served only during the lowest of tides. To ogle these colorful invertebrates and algae, plan your tide pooling excursions around the minus tides during full and new moons. In 2020, the lowest of lows arrive on Jan. 11 at 4:25 p.m. and Feb. 8 at 3:24 p.m. ~ Photo by Beth Cox 20 CARPINTERIAMAGAZINE.com

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Catering for all Occasions Best Bagels Since 1996 • Delicious Salads • Gourmet Sandwiches Grand Parties • Hors D’oeuvres • Social & Corporate Catering 5050 Carpinteria Avenue • To Go 805.566.1558 • Bistro Dining 6:30am-3pm Weekends 7am-3pm 53 S. Milpas St. • 805.564.4331 • Mon-Fri 6am-4pm Weekends 7am-3pm

Catering 805.319.0155 • bagelnet.com WINTER2020 21

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For the love of Carp And just like that, Thanksgiving and Christmas are upon us. Though it may not be obvious at first glance, this edition of Carpinteria Magazine is all about the holidays. It’s about the holidays boiled down to their essence: beauty, family, selflessness, and love.

I’m planning to focus on these elements this Christmas season. I’m going to try to resist internet ads tailored to me by soulless algorithms. I’m going to stroll Linden and Carpinteria avenues instead of surfing online marketplaces. I’m going to look for things that members of my community make or sell in their shops that will bring joy to my loved ones.

Because, let’s be clear, Carpinteria merchants need us right now. Summer tourists are long gone, and they won’t be back in their droves for many months. Our merchants aren’t just faceless corporations keeping vacancy signs at bay, they’re also our friends. They are the folks you see at the vet’s office, or jogging past your house, or even in your high school yearbook from 30 years ago.

When we choose to give these people our business instead of Amazon, we are investing in our community. Those aren’t just nice words meant to fill space. Think about how important Carpinteria’s small businesses are to this town. They beautify our beloved downtown, they employ our fellow community members, their sales taxes support local road repairs and community services, and their generosity keeps Carpinteria nonprofits thriving.

Then there’s the next, possibly even more important, layer. When we support local businesses, we put dollars in the pockets of the people who are going to turn around and spend those same dollars in other local businesses. That smoothie you just sipped at Pacific Health Foods, the candle you bought your mom at Soap, those purchases will multiply their way into dozens of businesses and households throughout the community.

I know, you didn’t open this magazine to get a lecture. You’ve officially paid the toll, and now I welcome you into this collection of Carpinteria cool.

Carpinteria Magazine wishes you and yours the warmest and most wonderful of holidays!

CARPINTERIA MAGAZINE WINTER2020 EDITOR Lea Boyd PRODUCTION & DESIGN Kristyn Whittenton WRITERS Christian Beamish Glenn Dubock Peter Dugré Chuck Graham Debra Herrick Amy Marie Orozco Megan Waldrep Leslie Westbrook George Yatchisin PHOTOGRAPHERS Beth Cox Glenn Dubock Chuck Graham Debra Herrick Paul Hoffmeier Michael Kwiencinski Shannon Jayne Miller Daisuke Nakamura Ken Pfeiffer CONTRIbUTORS Carpinteria Valley Museum of History Lou Panizzon Marty & Nan Panizzon PRODUCTION SUPPORT Rockwell Printing

Lea Boyd, Editor Published by RMG Ventures, LLC Michael VanStry, President • Gary L. Dobbins, Vice President 4856 Carpinteria Avenue, Carpinteria, California 93013 Tel: (805) 684-4428 Email: info@carpinteriamagazine.com

ADvERTISING Karina Villarreal karina@coastalview.com (805) 684-4428 GET SOCIAl WITH US CarpinteriaMagazine.com Instagram @CarpinteriaMagazine

All articles, photographs and artwork appearing in this publication are the copyrighted intellectual property of RMG Ventures, LLC. RMG Ventures, LLC aggressively protects its intellectual property rights. No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied in any form without the express written permission of the publisher. ©2020 RMG Ventures, LLC.

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Home Care Organization Lic.#424700020

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Rainbow Bridge Ranch Palm Growers

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Huge succulent collection Over 20 Varieties of Climatized Coastal Grown Palm Trees, Tropicals, Bananas, Plumerias & More at Wholesale Prices

WE DELIVER Open to Public by Appointment Bruce Montgomery at (805) 684-7976

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Friendly Companionship Flexible Hourly Care Affordable Hourly Rate Weekends & Holidays Up to 24/7 Care Live-In Care Whether you need a new website, social

media management, or a brand check-up, we’re here to make your business stand out. Call today to schedule a meeting!

11/4/19 12:04 PM

DEbbiE MuRphy

Broker/Property Manager/Notary Sales • Property Management • Vacation Rentals

DRE #00580025

www.murphykingrealestate.com 805.689.9696 or 805.684.4101 • 5441 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013

“Experience the

Artful Life!”

quilting • Knitting needleworK • arts and gifts

A whimsical store with everything you’ll need for quilting, knitting, needlework, inspired gifts and more…

Hours: M-s • 10 to 5 sun. • 11 to 4

919 Maple avenue • Carpinteria, Ca 93013 • 805.566.1250 • roxannequilts.CoM

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Complete Auto Body Repair Services

Serving Carpinteria Valley since 1988

PAINTING & REFINISHING • EXPERT COLOR MATCHING CUSTOM RESTORATION • PRECISION FRAME STRAIGHTENING Dealing with insurance companies can be very confusing and frustrating. Stop by and let Joe and his friendly staff guide you through the hassles of unnecessary estimates and misleading conversations with adjusters attempting to steer you to their out of town associates.

Remember, the choice of repair shops is yours. Keep your business right here in Carpinteria while receiving top quality repairs and an unlimited life-time guarantee on all repair work.

All Insurance Welcome • Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm

805-684-0083

5096 Sixth St. • Carpinteria Accepts Santa Barbara Axxess Card

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PET FOOD & SUPPLIES • GROOMING • HAY & FEED

FULL SERVICE MOBILE AUTO DETAILING & PAINT CORRECTION EXPERTS

IT’S MY FAVORITE STORE!

MERRICK, CANIDAE, SCIENCE DIET, SOLID GOLD, HOLISTIC SELECT, NUTRO, TIKI CAT NATURAL BALANCE, TASTE OF THE WILD, DIAMOND CARE, PREY, PURE, PROFESSIONAL +, UNDER THE SUN, MY PERFECT PET, STELLA & CHEWY’S, NORTHWEST NATURALS, SMALLBATCH, FUSSIE CAT, WERUBA BFF, TIKI CAT

89O CACTUS LANE • 8O5-684-9988 (next to Smart & Final)

Quality 0ne A U T O

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93013 What has tWo Wheels & its oWn private museum?

Many people have interests, some people develop passions, and a few find themselves with obsessions. Leroy Adams admits with good-humored self-deprecation that his “bike museum” is just this sort of obsession.

The museum building might have been called a large shed in another incarnation. In this life, however, its 10-foot by 6-foot interior houses a most incredible collection

of

bicycle

paraphernalia.

Bicycles

themselves? No. The outbuilding contains thousands of items created to celebrate and promote the twowheeled vehicles that first became an interest of Leroy’s at the typical time, childhood.

Pins are central to Leroy’s bike museum. Produced

For Leroy, that interest in bicycles grew into a passion

by cycling companies to promote a new line of

in his 20s and 30s when he raced bikes competitively.

products, each pin is a piece of cycling history. Leroy

It was also in those years that Leroy bought his first

now owns several hundred of them, most he picked

bicycle pin, made by the Italian company Cinelli.

up at bike shows held around the world.

But the museum isn’t just pins. It’s bike-themed mugs, art with bikes, and albums filled with photographs of Leroy with folks of great importance in the cycling world. Packed away in boxes for ages, the collection was finally given its own home a few years ago.

Created for and by Leroy, the museum never ceases to elicit joy. “I just come out here and dawdle,” he says. “My wife calls it merchandising.”

Located in Leroy’s backyard, the bike museum isn’t open to the public. That said, Leroy loves sharing it with people who can appreciate bikes on the borderline obsessive level. If you’d like a tour, give him a call at (805) 637-7823.

- Lea Boyd

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Raising veggies, kids, and funds foR schools

Farm-to-table eating has never been so easy, and now you can support your child’s school to boot. At the start of 2018, Farm Cart Organics launched its school food box program to help schools raise money while offering a healthy food option to local families.

Extra-large family-size boxes are packed with locally farmed fruit, herbs, and veggies at a cost of $25 per week. For each delivery the Farm Cart makes, the company donates $3 to the school. The more families from each school sign up, the more money that school raises.

Farm Cart co-owner Katherine Lesh had the idea after a coworker’s son asked if she wanted to buy a tub of cookie dough for a school fundraiser. She

could help by providing “an avenue for families to

get

healthy

food

and to raise money for school.” Katherine was also

inspired

by

her

father, Tom Shepherd of

Shepherd

Farms,

who operated a similar program 15 years ago in Santa Barbara.

What

started

with

one school has now grown to 20 throughout Santa

Barbara

and

Ventura counties. In Carpinteria, each week Farm Cart delivers boxes to Canalino, Carpinteria Family and Howard schools.

“We are very proud to be a small part of changing the way fundraisers happen in our local schools,” says

looked at the package and thought, “Kids shouldn’t

Katherine. “We’re not in it for the money, but it’s fun.”

be eating this.” But she understood that schools

farmcartorganics.com, Instagram: @farmcartorganics

needed to raise money and she knew her company

- Debra HerrIck

ask the caRds

and strengthen their own intuition. “The Tarot spread

Wessely has been reading Tarot cards for individuals

any questions, and I see what shows up for me. Then

For over 30 years, second-generation intuitive Mary and organizations. The New York transplant now offers her intuitive skills right here in Carpinteria.

Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Wessely guides people on their journey to self-realization in the garden at Porch, 3823 Santa Claus Lane.

Tarot readings can be 15, 30, or 60 minutes. During a session, Wessely gives gentle guidance and tools to help people heal, reach new levels of self-awareness,

tells a story,” explains Wessely. “I start without asking we go into any questions that a client has.”

Over the years, Wessely’s energy work has helped people with losing loved ones, relationships, job issues, business strategies, and even companies looking for direction on new hires. In Tarot, as in life, everything is energy.

Instagram: @mwtarot - Debra HerrIck

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93013

Though stands

a

half-century

between

experiences recollections,

MEMOIR SHINES A SPOTLIGHT ON BYGONE CARPINTERIA

in

vivid

Ward Small and his siblings grew up climbing oaks,

Valley

Ward’s

and he

detail

his

recounts everything

from fishing excursions along the shoreline to expeditions into the backcountry and clandestine beer drinking in a canyon culvert.

Rich

with history,

Carpinteria “Tales

from

hopping creeks and amassing adventures fit for Mark

Toro Canyon and Beyond”

Twain’s pen. Several decades later, Ward himself

gracefully

chronicled these experiences in “Tales from Toro

ranging

Canyon and Beyond,” a colorful local history spanning

most importantly, the book

the 1940s and ’50s. The book is now available at the

enchants with its depiction of a rural childhood when

Carpinteria Valley Museum of History, where the full

early independence was the norm.

covers topics.

widePerhaps

Though the author avoids cloying nostalgia, his

$20 cost benefits the museum.

“Tales from Toro Canyon and Beyond” began

own distance and loss magnify his memories of a

as a shorter memoir that Ward distributed to family

childhood in Toro Canyon. Ward moved away from

members. Inspired by friend Neil Ablitt’s publication

Carpinteria in 1961 to attend Long Beach State

of “Two Thumbs Out,” an account of Neil’s 1962

College, then spent most of his adult life in Livermore,

European hitchhiking trip, Ward expanded the short

Calif. He last visited the Toro Canyon home in 1984,

memoir into a full-length book “that captured the

and it burned down in a 2010 fire.

joys and sorrows of growing up in the Canyon.”

CONVERSATION CLUES TO LOCAL LONGEVITY The Carpinteria time clock starts when you move to town. For some folks, that means labor and delivery, for others a job change or a home purchase. Whenever you arrived and began writing your own Carpinteria history, you became eligible to start sentences with, “Remember when…”

Leaning heavily on the memories

- LEA BOYD

IF YO U CAN S AY “… Teddy’s by the Sea was Cielo?” “… Smart & Final was Vons?”

“… Main School occupied the campus where Carpinteria Children Project is today.”

“…Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center’s building was Cajun Kitchen?”

“… Siam Elephant was the Fish Barrel?”

“… Teddy’s by the Sea was Chuys?”

“… CVS was TG&Y?”

“… Albertsons was Lucky’s?”

of local history buffs Lou, Marty, and

Nan

Magazine

Panizzon, has

Carpinteria

created

a

rough

guide to residential tenure based on evidence that can be collected in just about any conversation.

- LEA BOYD

YOU’VE BEEN AROUND AT LEAST 5 YEARS

10 YEARS

15 YEARS

20 YEARS

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Every third Wednesday of the month, local schools benefit from purchases at Corktree Cellars, Jack’s Bistro & Famous Bagels, Peebee & Jay’s, Yo Yum Yum, Uncle Chen, Padaro Beach Grill, Rori’s Creamery, Jersey Mike’s, and Borrello’s, which is under new ownership.

Funding

for

CEF

translates

into

funding

for

Carpinteria Unified School District. The educationserving nonprofit supports programs in the arts, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), and school parent groups.

Dine Out doesn’t just mean dinner; it’s an all-day event, and Carpinterians have begun to plan their

EvEry dinE out counts

meals around the fundraising opportunity. Yamaoka

favorite restaurant? When that same delicious meal

friends for dinner at Corktree.”

What’s better than your favorite meal at your

benefits your favorite school district. That’s what Dine Out for Kids does; it channels funds from nine Carpinteria restaurants into local schools. Inspired

by Carpinteria Education Foundation (CEF) board

says, “Many of our supporters will hold breakfast meetings at Jack’s Bistro, and then meet up with Yamaoka and her family make a point of supporting participating restaurants during Dine Out for Kids.

“We always see friends, school board members, local farmers, families, and CEF board members out on the

member Nikki Yamaoka, the program launched in

third Wednesday supporting Carp kids,” she says.

the fall of 2017 and has raised more than $14,000 for

Instagram: Carpinteria_ed_foundation

schools since.

- Lea Boyd

“rEmEmbEr whEn...?” “… Bud’s Eggception was where Sushi Teri is today?” “… Rincon Designs was where Esau’s is today?”

“… Teddy’s by the Sea was a KFC?” “… Guicho’s was Ralph’s Market?”

“… then President Bill Clinton and family vacationed on Padaro Lane?”

“… Carpinteria “… teenagers went “… Carpinteria Middle School was to dances held in High School the high school?” the parking lot at played football for “… teenagers the end of Linden a season at the staged tomato Avenue?”

Santa Barbara Polo and lemon wars Fields?” throughout town “… there were every Halloween?” sand dunes where Linden “… there was a water tank with Field is now?”

Carpinteria World’s “… Hope’s Safest Beach Grocery stood written on it near the corner of where Rite Aid Carpinteria and is today?”

Linden avenues?”

“… the Wardholme Torrey Pine was planted?”

YOU’vE BEEN AROUND AT LEAST 25 YEARS

30 YEARS

50 YEARS

60 YEARS

70 YEARS

130 YEARS WINTER2020 33

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Pac West Blooms Wedding & event Planning Floral & decor H o l i d ay & S P e c i a l o c c a S i o n

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The Alcazar is such a wonderful asset of our community; one that celebrates music, dance, drama, film and so many other wonderful arts. - David Powdrell

4916 Carpinteria Avenue • 805-684-6380 www.thealcazar.org For questions or to book an event: info@thealcazar.org

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…simply fine wines at great prices!

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The Eighth Wonder of the World…

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The Palms Tradition since 1912

Hungry Locals & Travelers Enjoy Family-Style Good Times

CARPINTERIA VALLEY MUSEUM OF HISTORY

Steak as you like it because you cook it yourself

27 years Offering Personalized Service for Finding Just the Right Gift!

Original Salad Bar • Filet • 16 oz. T-Bone • Ribeye Steaks Teriyaki Chicken • Beef Kabobs • Norwegian Salmon Halibut • Alaskan King Crab • Rack of Lamb

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three days of celebration!

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CARpE DIEM

D o ers , B el iev ers, t h i n kers , anD D ream ers pH o Tos by s H A N N o N JA y N E MIl l E R Have you ever met someone passionately committed to a cause? The type of person who makes you wonder when they sleep and eat? The type of person who motivates you to do a little more with the little bit of spare time you have? If you haven’t met this type of person, you’re about to. It turns out, Carpinteria has a number of these individuals who dedicate impressive proportions of their lives to a purpose bigger than themselves— and not for compensation, not for glory. We tracked down five of the many tireless activists in Carpinteria Valley, and we bring you their stories. Get inspired!

P ho t o b y P a u l h o f f m e ie r

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do g ’ s b est friend

By M E GA N WA l dRE p What defines a dog person anyway? “To me, the biggest part of being a dog person is allowing yourself to be their person,” says Danielle Bordenave, co-vice president of Carpinteria Dog Owners Group (C-DOG). “I am Otis’ person, and he is my dog. I honestly did not realize how much of a dog person I was until Otis entered my life.”

Though Otis converted her, Danielle’s first canine companion was a poodle terrier mix, Andy, who came home from work with Danielle’s dad when she was about 7. Her father was in the Air Force, but when Danielle was 6, her family settled in Illinois, which gave the military kid a rare opportunity to spend the rest of her childhood in one town.

Danielle’s adult life continued in the Midwest until eight years ago when her Carpinteria love story began.

While visiting with family at a rented condo near Carpinteria beach, she made her decision to relocate. The next two and a half years were spent tying up loose ends in Chicago, her home at the time, before coming west to open her own business focused on health, wellness, fitness, and physical therapy. She launched SPARK45 Fitness and Physical Therapy in Carpinteria in 2016.

Later that year, she found a Labradoodle puppy, named him Otis, and officially began her life as a dog person.

As Danielle and Otis socialized and became friends with other dogs and dog owners in town, the wish to find a safe and legal place for dogs to play off-leash became a collective goal. Now, when she’s not at her day job teaching up to 15 fitness classes and treating up to 50

physical therapy and personal training clients a week, Danielle focuses on C-DOG, a volunteer organization whose mission is to “encourage the establishment of dog parks and open off-leash areas in order to provide safe and secure environments where owners may exercise and train their dogs off leash.”

C-DOG has cleared a number of hurdles toward its goal. Last year, over 50 dog owners flocked to a Carpinteria City Council meeting and successfully advocated for a park to be considered. The City is now working to designate a portion of an existing park or create a new park for dogs.

The group is also hard at work fundraising. Danielle recently channeled her energy into the BARK for a PARK event at Island Brewing Company that raised nearly $6,000 to support the City’s development of a dog park and to support training events and volunteer events aimed at improving the relationship between dog owners and other community members.

And Danielle has discovered that C-DOG is about more than a future dog park. The group has served as a support network during tragic times. “When one of Otis’s girlfriends, Zoe, lost her home during the first night of the Thomas Fire,” Danielle says, “our gathering together was not just about the dogs, but also about the human connections between all of us and our puppies.”

If you’d like to run with the pack, visit the website c-dog. org, follow @Carpinteriadogs on Instagram or Carpinteria Dog Owners: C-DOG on Facebook.

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Do n ’ t h ate h im b ec au se he ’ s c a r p interia b eau tiful

By Ch RI s T I A N BE A M I s h It would be easy to envy Bryan Mootz.

There’s the full head of hair, tastefully trimmed and lightly salted, framing a handsome face of German, Irish, and Cuban heritage. (“I lose my temper methodically,” Bryan says.)

There’s the sense of humor.

And there’s the sense of ease that comes with being retired with a pension at 60 years old and inhabiting a body that is still fit and taking corners on a 998cc Aprilla sport bike at 85 miles-per-hour.

“Wherever I move,” Bryan says, “I want to make it a better place.”

Add that one—that irrepressibly optimistic outlook— to the reasons-to-envy list.

Naturally, the abundance Bryan enjoys wasn’t just handed to him. He put in 30 years at UPS working in the Thousand Oaks/Newbury Park region where he grew up. And that’s 30 years of real work—the brown uniform, the truck driving, the loading and unloading of thousands of pounds of packages, the holiday rush seasons, the broken ribs, the heat exhaustion. “It was hard work, but it’s a great company,” Bryan says with his characteristic cheer.

In the community of Carpinteria, Bryan’s high energy and optimism found a home with the organization Carpinteria Beautiful, where he is currently president and has volunteered since 1992. He says Carpinteria Beautiful “is the little group that could,” and rattles off a quick-fire list of notable accomplishments: permanent table tennis tops on the beach at Linden Avenue, murals around town painted by noted artists such as John Wullbrandt and

Whitney Abbott, and bans on smoking and plastic bags in the city, initiated by late Carpinteria Beautiful member and president Foster Markolf.

A love for the town and a penchant to serve brought Bryan to Carpinteria Beautiful, but his love for Caroline Duxbury Smith first brought him to town. His thengirlfriend, now wife, moved to Carpinteria in 1992. The pair married in 2000, and Bryan started making the 45mile commute to Thousand Oaks for his job at UPS. Bryan is also a member of the Rotary Club and a CERT (emergency preparedness) volunteer with the city. He tells of how Carpinteria Beautiful has 82 members and 50 dedicated “adopt-a-spotters,” people who pick an area in town and periodically remove litter and care for the space. “You can see the results,” he says. Bryan’s focus has been on graffiti removal, a relentless task that he tackles weekly.

Additionally, Bryan is a writer. He works every day for two to four hours on short stories and nonfiction essays.

He has an editor, but he is not yet seeking publication.

Just for fun it seems, Bryan is also doing background work for TV, and he related a story of a conversation he had with another extra on set: “You’re retired at 60 and have a pension?” the woman asked him.

“Yes,” Bryan replied.

“You’re married, and own a place in Carpinteria?” she then asked.

“Yes,” he told her.

“You do realize,” the woman said, “that you’re a big jerk.”

Learn more about Carpinteria Beautiful at carpinteriabeautiful.org.

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A light in the darkness

By Ch RI s T I A N BE A M I s h

The statistics are grim: suicide rates in the United States are at an all-time high with 47,173 self-inflicted deaths in 2017, an increase of 24 percent since 1999. For Amrita Salm, the suicide epidemic hit home in recent years—not in her immediate circle, but in the deaths of a Carpinteria man she knew professionally and a female student from Carpinteria High School. “How is it possible,” Amrita recalls asking herself, “that all her friends knew (that the girl was struggling emotionally) and they didn’t know who to tell?”

Out of these experiences, and with a focus on youth, Amrita and other concerned community members founded HopeNet of Carpinteria, a suicide prevention organization that offers referrals and resources to those in need. HopeNet produces wallet-sized cards printed with suicide warning signs and tips for prevention, as well as hotline numbers and a phone number specifically designated for youth under age 21. The cards are distributed throughout town and to local schools.

HopeNet also hosts an annual candlelight vigil in downtown Carpinteria on World Suicide Prevention Day, Sept. 10, with speakers and therapists on hand to honor and remember those who have committed suicide. “The focus this year,” Amrita says of the organization, “has been on community meetings.” The meetings will help HopeNet to identify what the mental health issues are in the community and where there are the gaps in services.

Amrita came to Carpinteria in 1991 after living for many years in Los Angeles where she had worked at Cal State Los Angeles in elementary education doing teacher training and teaching methodology classes. Her own

teaching experience goes back to the 1960s, and covers elementary, community college, and graduate level classes. She holds a master ’s degree in special education from the University of Utah and a doctorate in education from U.C. Berkeley.

Her volunteer resume is extensive, and she served on the board of the Carpinteria Unified School District from 2004-2008, following the advice of a college professor in Chicago where she grew up. “If you don’t get involved in local politics,” he’d told her, “the right will take it over.”

With her aim of supporting people, Amrita brings a resolute and clear-eyed focus to her work. “We’re in a culture where you have to be strong and independent,” she says. “Is your success the ability to live a fast and productive life, or your ability to be happy in yourself and help someone else?”

This bigger-picture perspective about what defines a successful life is no doubt informed by the spiritual work she is involved with in the Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy. Having visited India 26 times, Amrita has also written three non-fiction biographies of important figures in the Vedanta tradition, a translation of an epic poem into English, and is currently researching a fourth book.

At its core, Vedanta is the “idea of the oneness of existence,” Amrita says. If there is indeed a oneness of existence, then the suffering of others is not theirs alone to bear. Amrita is doing what she can to help ease the load for people in Carpinteria.

Learn more about HopeNet of Carpinteria at hopenetofcarp.org .

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A v i e w o f th e fo res t A nd th e trees

By DE BRA H E RRI Ck The youngest of seven children, Mike Wondolowski grew up in the Bay Area, exploring his surroundings and learning about nature through childhood adventures.

After graduating from U.C. Berkeley, Mike started a master ’s program in computer engineering at U.C. Santa Barbara, a move that eventually led him to Carpinteria, where he’d find his home and life’s work.

Founded in 1964, Carpinteria Valley Association (CVA) formed as a grassroots organization with the mission to preserve and enhance the rural beauty of Carpinteria Valley—its crown jewel achievement was helping to secure the public acquisition of the Carpinteria Bluffs. Involved in CVA for nearly 20 years, Mike, current board president, has spearheaded advocacy campaigns to protect the natural environment, open spaces, and clean air.

While Mike received formal training for his career as an electrical engineer, becoming an advocate was a hands-on experience. “It’s not a trained skill; it’s a learned skill. I learned from people around me,” he notes. “There was no school. It was just an ongoing education.”

Early on, Mike learned from more seasoned activists in a fight to save Goleta’s Ellwood Shores, where he lived at the time. Over the years, he had several mentors, such as the late Selma Rubin, renowned Santa Barbara environmental activist who worked to protect the coastline after the 1969 oil spill.

Driven by thoughtful consideration of facts and attention to what the people of Carpinteria value most, Mike says his most important work with CVA has been to advise local government “on a multitude of little things.”

While CVA has had a hand in headline-making fights to safeguard Carpinteria Valley’s slow growth and “small beach town” character, a lot of CVA’s work is in the brass tacks, “educating the public about the planning process” and contributing to crucial planning documents such as the city’s General Plan.

To young people, Mike’s message is simple: “It’s not someone else’s job to take care of the community.

It’s all of our jobs.” He asserts that local government only works if the public takes part. “We all have a say in the future of our community, but we have to say it …

There are some serious issues coming … But we are all incredibly adaptable and resilient and we have the ability to influence our future. We can’t control it, but we can influence it.”

In addition to CVA, Mike is board president of Santa Barbara Channelkeeper, a grassroots nonprofit organization whose mission is to protect and restore the Santa Barbara Channel and its watersheds. He’s also a world traveler, Earthwatch volunteer, and photographer who has photographed polar bears in Manitoba, Canada; dolphins in Hawaii; nesting sea turtles in Costa Rica; whale sharks in Australia; and last year ’s total solar eclipse in Oregon. And he’s one of two U.C. Berkeley Golden Bears team photographers for the 13-week college football season.

To accomplish so much, Mike keeps true to his motto: “One thing at a time.”

Find out more on Carpinteria Valley Association’s facebook page.

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Determined to disarm

By PE T E R DuGRé “Gun violence touches everyone,” says Toni Wellen, cofounder and former longtime chair of Coalition Against Gun Violence. She says it in emails, in public speeches, in newsletters, in OpEds, to anyone who will listen. Toni calls Carpinteria home, but meeting her for a few minutes you get the sense that where she is wouldn’t change a thing about who she is, an activist bent on creating peace, even if that means rocking a few boats in the process.

Before taking up her current mantle as a leading local voice against gun violence, Toni was active against the threat of nuclear war and the perils introduced to Earth by climate change.

Toni runs a therapy practice out of her home office on Shepard Mesa, applying some of her penchant for making change to clients seeking ways to find their own better selves and better lives. Her proclivity for speaking her mind for the betterment of others is a condition etched deeply into her DNA. Rewind to Russia in 1905. Toni’s grandmother was put under house arrest and then exiled from the country for her role in the Bolshevik uprising against the Russian monarchy. She first immigrated to England, where she briefly joined the suffragist movement, not speaking a word of English. The family then entered the United States through Ellis Island. Toni’s mother was born one month into residency in the U.S., where authorities changed the family name to Brown from the Russian Podobronskya. Toni’s mother was named Susan B. Anthony Brown after Susan B. Anthony, the prominent women’s suffragist.

So Toni never had much of a choice other than activism.

Her mother, Susan B. Anthony, at age 76, walked across the United States for the cause of peace and raising

awareness against nuclear war.

Following Toni’s early career as a teacher and transition into therapy, she never relaxed into contentment with the world around her. She remembers sitting outside the post office in Corona Del Mar, Calif. to encourage young men to become conscientious objectors during the draft in the late 1970s.

“I’ve always been against violence in any form. Soldiers go to war and come back ruined from trauma. Violence is the root of the problem and is perpetuated through war, through gun culture and gun ownership,” Toni says.

In 1994, Toni and her friend Eileen Pritkin attended a symposium against gun violence. They left inspired to join the cause. “I heard that 30,000 people die each year in the U.S. from guns, and I had to do something,” Toni says.

CAGV remains strong, though Toni is stepping down as its chair after 25 years. Other than leading the local movement through education about the impacts of gun violence, the organization has been instrumental in creating change through promoting legislation.

Following the Isla Vista Massacre in 2014, CAGV helped educate and encourage the passage of the Gun Violence Restraining Order bill. Authored by then assembly members Das Williams and Nancy Skinner, the law allows the confiscation of guns from those who exhibit signs of emotional distress.

When she believes in a cause, Toni never backs down.

She fondly recalls a conversation she had with former Santa Barbara Mayor Helene Schneider. Schneider labeled her the “most persistent and determined person” she’d ever met, no higher compliment.

Learn more at sbcoalition.org.

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Eleanor Sala on the periscope.

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Laura and Steve Burge’s home overlooking the mouth of Rincon Creek.

Art and Energy Overlap in Family Vacation Homes

L

words B y LesLi e A . we s t Brook • Ph ot os By dA i s uk e N AkAmu r A

aura and Steve Burge have plenty to be grateful for. The couple, high school sweethearts who met as teenagers in the Los Angeles area, recently celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary. They are the proud parents of five grown children (four sons and a daughter) and 14 grandchildren, with two more on the way.

“We are blessed,” Laura says over a cup of coffee in the dining room of the serene vacation house she and Steve purchased in 2007.

Several years back, the couple’s blessings outgrew one vacation house on Rincon Point and expanded into a second. Backdropped by the Pacific Ocean and filled with an impressive contemporary art collection, the two beach houses offer ample space for picture-perfect fullfamily getaways.

Bronze sculpture by Nancy Rubins, created as a model for her large work “Bronze Sculpture Number One”.

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The kids’ house, formerly artist Jack Baker’s longtime home.

The bunk room in the kids’ house, with painting

by Greek artist Father Stamatis hanging at left.

The family’s favorite hangout spot: from left, Alyssa, Genevieve, Bucky, Elijah, Laura, Andreas, Eleanor, Nick and Diana.

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Laura at the dining room table with painting by Edward Lentsch Rincon is an easy commute—an hour and a half, Laura says—from their San Marino home. “We can come up just for a night if we feel like it.” More often, they spend several days and especially enjoy gathering their entire brood for the annual 4th of July barbecue at the beach.

One of the couple’s five grown children, James, and his family live in Santa Barbara, where James is one of the owners of Pure Order Brewing Co. Three of his siblings and their mates live in Pasadena, within a block of one another. The oldest Burge son lives farthest away, in Dallas, Texas, with his wife and two kids.

Recently redecorated by Los Angeles interior designer Patrick Sheedy, the elder Burges’ house was featured on the 2018 Carpinteria Beautiful Home and Garden Tour. The “kids’ house,” remodeled in 2016, will be on the 2020 tour.

“We looked for a long time before buying the house in 2007,” Laura says, “We thought we’d just decorate but decided that we should really remodel the bathrooms and the kitchen. We ended up gutting it and moving a downstairs wall as well.”

They used their San Marino contractor Paul Callahan to remodel the 2,200-square-foot, three-bedroom, three-bath house. Callahan worked with architect and Rincon Point resident Larry Clark on the remodel and expansion of the kids’ house.

Comfortable furnishings include the first pair of couches the couple purchased as newlyweds. The sofas have been reupholstered and redesigned many times throughout the years, a testament to purchasing quality pieces of furniture that can withstand the test of time, notes Laura. Beautiful inlaid Moroccan furniture adds to the flair, as well as pretty accessories collected by Laura who likes to scour Carpinteria’s antique shops.

Modern and traditional design are perfectly balanced in the Burge homes.

The standout feature is the couple’s terrific contemporary art collection by living artists.

Each piece was thoughtfully chosen and has a story. They all hold special meaning for the couple.

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A work by artist and Greek Orthodox priest Father Stamatis hangs above the dining room table.

Kids’ house master bedroom

Parents’ house master bath Laura and her 14th grandchild Andreas sit below a painting

by Brian Fahlstrom.

York, and Texas fine art galleries, like Gagosian and David Zwirner. Internationally exhibited Los Angeles abstract painter/Pollack-Krasner Foundation Grant recipient Brian Fahlstrom, who is in his 40s, and mid-career painter Edward Lentsch, among others, are represented.

The couple both have a keen interest in pieces ranging from photos by Slim Aarons to whimsical pieces by Alexander Gorlizki and a commissioned work by Roy Thurston that changes with the light. Nancy Rubins’ bronze maquette for her large piece “Bronze Sculpture Number One” sits on an entry table.

Some of Laura’s favorite works include subtle abstract pieces by Roy Thurston and pieces painted onsite by Father Stamatis, a Greek Orthodox priest and artist who lives in Athens. His painting of the Channel Islands hangs in the dining room; another piece inspired by the clergyman’s childhood memory of boats coming and going in Greece, hangs in the kids’ house.

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Family time at the parents' house.

Los Angeles Times—from LA Projects) and Philip Taaffe’s “Gloriole, 2007” from a gallery on the East Coast. A piece

by Lisa Sanditz, one of several works by female artists in their collection, and a fine piece by artist/collector Nancy Gifford purchased at Sullivan & Goss in Santa Barbara are part of the mix.

The color pink shows up in a number of works as well, Laura’s favorite color. Steve’s best loved works at this house are two by Marcel Dzama purchased in New York when their daughter worked at an art gallery there. One is a relatively rare painting on canvas by the artist who usually works on paper.

In addition to the fine art hanging on the walls, both houses have interesting histories. The couple’s house was once owned by Architectural Digest editor Paige Rense and was featured in the 1993 issue of the magazine.

The kids house is where artist and longtime Carpinterian Jack Baker lived and painted until his 2011 death. It was the original carriage house to the Bates family home.

Jack’s memory was honored in the rebuild and expansion of the home. The Burges thoughtfully preserved and framed a section of wall from Jack’s upstairs bedroom.

His image of a seagull painted directly on a wallpaper map of Maine was cut out of the wall—plaster and all— and framed. The artist’s French farmhouse dining table was restored and a huge hutch remains in place with Jack’s collection of white California Pottery vessels interspersed with Laura’s handsome collection of blue and white Chinese porcelain.

Bronze Thai rain drum Laura’s Serbian roots and the importance of the couple’s Serbian Orthodox religion are also on display in a myriad of Greek and Serbian icons scattered throughout the living spaces. Those roots are present in the family relationships, too. The grandchildren call Laura “Baka” and Steve “Deka”—Serbian for grandma and grandpa.

The couple continues to collect art and support living artists, but they admit their children are not particularly interested in their collection. Their 4-yearold granddaughter, Vera, appreciates many works, but recently commented that one contemporary piece, “looks like a countertop!” Laura repeats with a laugh.

Although the houses are vacation getaways for members of the Burge family, Laura says that once they arrive in Carpinteria, it’s hard to leave.  WINTER2020 57

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I Sea Waves W o Rds & ph oT os by Gl E N N dubock

FRoM ThE MINd oF ThE MAsTER photographer Glenn dubock is a fixture on the shores of carpinteria. perennially stationed in the sand, he’s quick with a smile and kind words, but his eyes rarely leave the ocean. While big surf draws long lenses from all over the world to our coastline, Glenn’s images prove that size alone does not make a great wave image. Carpinteria Magazine invites you to feast on Glenn’s reflections of his thousands of hours behind a tripod—a poetry of word and wave.

- Lea Boyd

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I call them wave portraitsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an attempt to capture the many moods of the salty subjects that come from distant storms to visit our shores for mere seconds.

Each one is unique and compelling, with a face that has been carved and sculpted by the winds and the tides. Some so sensuous in curve and curl that it would appear that Neptune himself had created a tribute to a mermaid.

Waves are the throbbing pulse of the oceans. They rearrange our local beaches every winter, scouring away the soft sands of summer and revealing hidden treasures like tide pools and mounds of gem-like sea glass.

As the wave height increases, so too does the decibel level. The roar of a mighty winter swell can emulate the thunderous rumbling of the percussion section of a major symphony orchestra when the conductor brings the instruments to the full crescendo of a dramatic piece of music.

The steady winds of spring and fall, the light and airy woodwinds in this musical scene, brush up the face of the wave, holding back the crest like a veil thrown back to reveal the glowing beauty of a bride.

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Fierce gale-force winds can jack up a wave and put a sheen on it that resembles a reflective sheet of brushed aluminumâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;or they can completely disassemble it and turn it into a mangled heap of liquid confusion.

When I go to make these portraits, the parameters are like no others. I never know who will show up, much less what kind of mood they will be in.

There is no control over the lighting, the ambient temperature or even the working conditions. To get the desired effect, I may be standing, sitting, or laying down. The session may only last a few minutes or I could be there all day just waiting for that perfect moment when the magic happens.

A little secret? The magical music in the key of sea happens a lot right here on our Carpinteria beaches. Patience is prime and knowledge of your subject goes a long way. Study the local surf, get in tune with the rhythm of the waves, and seek out the corners of the shoreline where the waves spend their gathered energy in one final explosion of sound, light, and color. ď ˇ WINTER2020 61

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Perfect pairing: Love and wine on Toro Canyon Road words b y GeorG e y a t ch i s i n â&#x20AC;¢ Ph ot os by M i ch a e l K w i e ci nsKi

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W

hen Jenna Jobst and Avi Reichental purchased their 10-acre property on Toro Canyon Road in 2013, they had no idea that its six acres of vineyard would have such a pull on their lives. After all, the striking, mosaic-floored Tuscan villa with an ocean view and the first-class equestrian facilities were the more obvious draw.

But when both members of a couple come from, as Jenna puts it, “a long line of craftsmen and farming,” initial attractions can change. At first, they continued to do what the previous owner, Joe Fazio, did—sell the grapes to a winery in Napa. But, as Jenna explains, “I always wanted to get into a business that reflected our lives of making and doing.”

They created a company called Jenavi, so named as a reflection of their love for each other. Jenavi now includes wine and olive oil production from the ranch, and will eventually encompass other products. For the wine label they chose Riccavalle, not just Italian for “rich valley” but also a translation of Avi’s surname.

At August’s end, the well-manicured rows of Riesling below the couple’s infinity pool are in their pre-harvest

Jenna Jobst and Avi Reichental at their Toro Canyon estate.

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glow, the green-yellow grapes gorgeous marbles. Jenna is checking the sugar levels daily to determine when to pick, often accompanied by their eager dog Cooper. By studying viticulture and enology with U.C. Davis, Jenna is continuing her education in the highly nuanced process of converting grapes to wine.

Joshua Klapper of Timbre Winery is the Riccavalle winemaker. Joshua says Jenna and Avi are great to work with. “They have been able to articulate what they want from the wine and the brand so we can be in sync with the winemaking and in the vineyard,” he says. “Jenna has a lot of vision and is very easygoing, and Avi is very careful and precise. They complement each other ’s strengths very well.”

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Those strengths are wide-ranging. Jenna, who manages the vineyard, property, and brand, is a gear head who is happiest when she’s restoring a vintage vehicle, and is especially proud of a 1985 Range Rover—the car came from Saudi Arabia, but most of its parts are from the UK and Canada. Avi is sometimes billed as a serial entrepreneur, having been a major driver in the 3D printing revolution (just check out his TED Talk on the topic with 2.6 million views), and currently the force behind Ventura-based XponentialWorks, a venture into the cutting edge of 3D printing, robotics, artificial intelligence, and innovation labs. What holds all their passions together, Jenna points out, is finding the sweet spot between “old world charm and new age technology.”

Their love of Carpinteria also binds them—they originally met on Santa Claus Lane. “We always felt that we were intensely blessed to be in this part of the world,” Avi says.

The couple hopes to inspire a Carpinteria wine

appellation someday. At a low elevation, their vineyard gets lots of fog cover to keep the grapes cool, leading to a long maturation process. “The vineyard is definitely an exciting one from a winemaking sense,” explains Joshua, the couple’s winemaker. “We always talk about ocean influence in a property, but rarely is that property around a mile from the ocean! The cool climate is amazing for Riesling, which thrives in the coolest of climates in Santa Barbara County, and globally, in fact.”

Their dry Riesling, to be named Ashes in honor of the Thomas Fire (Jenna and Avi were evacuated for five weeks in the winter of 2017-18 and the property suffered extensive smoke damage), is just about to be released.

Making wine from their own vines wasn’t where the industrious couple stopped. They figured, as long as they were going to take the plunge into wine, why not make some other varietals? So they did.

Riccavalle plans to release about 1,000 cases of wine over the next six months, with the red varietals coming

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The couple at home with the fruit of their labor.

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from grapes sourced from Santa Ynez, Santa Maria, and Paso Robles. Look for a 2018 Rosé of Pinot Noir called Flirt; Jenna’s favorite, a 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon called Spurs in honor of their horses; two Pinots—a 2016 Jenavi and a 2017 Velvet; and a 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon called Black Magic. Avi says of this last one, “We like Santana,” and Jenna adds, “and it’s sexy.”

What’s also sexy for them is to bridge winemaking and viticulture with technology. For instance, Avi is the executive chairman for Apollo Robotics, which is developing drones that provide data from vineyards.

Drone building is a long distance from a childhood in Israel riding on his father ’s lap while driving through orange groves.

The orange groves are now Carpinteria blood oranges, but some of that farming feel remains the same. And while robotics and farming may seem an unlikely match, Jenna and Avi aren’t concerned about conforming to anyone else’s expectations.

“We’re goofballs,” Jenna says, “We like showing up at Lucky’s in our cowboy hats.”

Soon more and more Riccavalle wine will be appearing in local restaurants. It can also be ordered direct; Avi and Jenna have surprises in store for their wine club. “We want to create a differentiated way, create loyalty perks beyond the industry norm,” Avi says. “We always believe business model innovation is just as important as product innovation.” 

Avi in the stables with horse Christopher Walken.

An afternoon cruise through the property.

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From left, Mary Ann Colson, Karen Graf, and Donna Lemere.

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Party girls T H E T R Io T HAT Tu RNs cARpINTERIA BlA ck T I E W o Rds & pH o Tos By dE BRA H E RRI ck

A

t a well-executed party, guests find their friends easily and hobnob with acquaintances without much ado. One’s belly stays comfortably satiated all night, and drinks are easy to come by. The program has a fulfilling arc—just enough humor, sorrow, and triumph.

And when this kind of party ends, the hall is still some three-quarters full.

Each year on the third or fourth Saturday of January, hundreds of Carpinterians attend the valley’s most finelytuned party, Carpinteria Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Community Awards Banquet—an event that for nearly a decade has been executed by a small brain-trust of three women: Donna Lemere, Mary Ann Colson, and Karen Graf.

HIsToRy

Finalizing table arrangements

In 1958, the Chamber named the first Carpinteria Man of the Year, John Moyer. The event committee, with Ernie McCurry at its helm, wanted to honor a local resident who had made a big impact in the community. Dinner that year was casual.

Men continued to receive the award until 1965, when the first woman, Margaret Mills of Mills Drugstore, was named Carpinteria Man/Woman of the Year. (The next woman wasn’t named until 1976, Anna Hebel.) Later, the award became what it is today, Carpinterian of the Year (COY).

Sometime in the early 1990s, Donna Lemere (COY 1999) joined the event committee. Her husband, Fred, had been involved since the party’s inception in 1958, and she knew the event well. She had watched how it moved from venue to venue, then finally, in the 1970s, settled in at the Miramar in Montecito, where it stayed for the next 20 years. Those were good times, recalls Donna, in the old Miramar dining room with the Masters of Ceremony George Bliss (COY 1961) who made sure he got home early to watch the “Golden Girls.” “Everyone laughed about that, always.”

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Samantha was Junior Carpinterian of the Year (Jr. COY). In 1991, the party moved back to Carpinteria where it was held at the State Beach parking lot for five years. By 1992, Mary Ann was on the event committee. “We moved back to Carpinteria from the Miramar,” she says, “because here we were honoring Carpinterians and we couldn’t do it in our town?”

At the State Beach, Donna remembers setting up lavish decorations under tents as large as 10,000 square feet, accommodating as many as 400 guests, “It was beautiful. We could have all the people we wanted.”

But there were practical issues. Tenting the entire event was expensive, and the team had to bring in everything, including the local fire department who pumped out water if it rained.

“Inevitably we would worry about people falling in high heels,” says Donna.

“There would always be a drip somewhere,” remembers Mary Ann. In recent years, the event has been held at Girls Inc. of Carpinteria and the Boys & Girls Club.

Karen Graf joined the committee in 2010, the year after she was named COY. Back then, Mary Crowley was a leader on the committee, and she asked Karen to help. But when Mary became ill shortly after, Karen naturally took on her role. At that time, there were as many as 12 people on the committee. Over the years, that number shrank. “We have evolved now to a core committee of just three,” says Karen, “and then volunteers help us on the day of the event.”

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Pl A N N I N G

Committee meetings start as early as August.

Collectively, Donna, Mary Ann, and Karen work hundreds of hours each year in planning the event. The women agree that there is only one standard: perfection.

“We’ll be behind the scenes doing things, and then at the end we’ll be at the venue for 10 hours a day setting up,” says Karen.

“We are so into making sure everything is perfect,” says Donna, “I just can’t stand something not going right.”

“It is the biggest celebration of people in Carpinteria.

And it needs to be the best,” Karen adds.

Each woman applies a different skillset, and Karen notes how they respect each other and understand their different strengths. “I’m more the mechanics on the day of,” she says, “the doer, the planner, the caller.” Karen also selects the theme. “It is important to me, so they let me choose.” If you’ve been to the event, you’ve seen Karen poised like Superman on the perimeter of the party, swiftly directing every transition.

Mary Ann works quietly and meticulously behind the scenes. She says she does “whatever they tell me to do, basically.” But Donna says she’s a doer, and Karen says every time she wonders, “How’d that get there?” the answer is Mary Ann. Donna’s strength is organization. She manages the nominations and selection process for the awards. (Terry Hickey Banks and John Franklin oversee the Jr. COY.) Donna produces the program, from the first word to the printing and everything in between. The program is completely scripted. “Anybody speaking that night is probably speaking Donna Lemere’s words,” says Donna, the architect of the precision-based evening program.

Donna’s flow chart is so perfectly timed that the committee

did away with an emcee years ago. The evening flow is easier to predict now, which they prefer.

As a group, the women agree that their greatest strength is their connection to the community. “Collectively, we know where to go,” says Karen. “My dad would say that Donna would get people to do anything for the event by batting her eyes! She would say, ‘John can you…?’ Blink blink blink.”

In a way, the event is now branded—the Tuscan lights, the flower and plant designs, the Rincon Events catering menu—and many people come to the event for that signature experience.

“We tried a new menu item,” says Mary Ann. “That was a faux pas with the attendees.”

“We’ll never do that again,” Karen jumps in.

“You run into someone in the street,” Mary Ann continues, “They say, ‘The food was good, but I missed the raviolis.’”

Their advice to other party planners: “Get the little things done first,” says Mary Ann. “Set up a timeline and stick to it,” says Donna. Karen adds, “I think that’s where the event actually shows that effort; the event is very well thought out. It is planned out. It is scripted, pretty much every point of it.”

MEMoRAblE Mo MENTs

All the components of the party include the most memorable moments. The year they honored first responders after the Thomas Fires and Montecito debris flows. Getting updates on where the past Jr. COY are now.

The year Rob Lowe came. The faces of the people who are genuinely surprised to win an award. And all the times someone is recognized for the work they’ve done for little personal reward beyond knowing that they’ve helped others or sought to make their community better.  WINTER2020 71

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ART CAUSE a r o f

WoR ds & ph oT os by dE bRA h E RRI ck

A

t the intersection of art and activism is Art for a Cause. Three local artists take inspiration from the community’s beloved natural landmark, the Wardholme Torrey Pine, to create works of art that will be donated to the Friends of the Carpinteria Library for a drawing to support books, literacy, and community programs.

Carpinteria’s Wardholme Torrey Pine is the largest of its kind in the world and sits prominently in the open space that faces the Carpinteria Library. Planted by Judge Thomas Ward in 1888, the majestic tree was designated as Carpinteria’s first historic landmark in 1968.

Artists Brian Tepper, Lety Garcia, and Ted Rhodes have re-envisioned the rare coastal pine in their distinct styles and media: geometric abstractions on canvas, realism in painting, and experimental photography. Each artist summons the Wardholme’s ancient charm in depictions as varied as their own stories and styles.

Want to own one of the original Wardholme artworks featured in Carpinteria Magazine? Stop by the Friends of the Carpinteria Library Used Bookstore, 5103 Carpinteria Ave., to purchase a $5 raffle ticket. The store is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets must be purchased before the drawing in February.

To find our more, visit focl.wildapricot.org.

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Ted Rhodes For photographer Ted Rhodes, art has been a means for activism. As a young man he filmed a tear gassing in a Fort Wayne city park with his mother ’s 16mm Bolex. The footage was picked up by media in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. After that, he knew first-hand the power of the image, and was seduced.

When Ted moved to Carpinteria in the 1980s, he soon became an integral part of the grassroots campaign to save the Bluffs. At the time, developers were trying to paint the Bluffs’ open space as an undesirable, useless property. Ted’s photographs documenting the Bluffs in all seasons over the course of a year captured the beauty and rarity of the Bluffs’ natural habitat, helping to inform and inspire the Coastal Commission, the City of Carpinteria, and thousands of donors to preserve the area.

“There’s a connection between my activism and my photography,” says Ted, “some of my photography is photojournalism, which is where I started, but in the last few years I’ve been pushing into fine art, experimenting with polymer photogravure etchings (solar plating) and image transfers.” His experimental processes add elements of serendipity and impressionism to his images.

In addition to serving as president of the nonprofit Citizens for the Bluffs, Ted is also a board member of the Fund for Santa Barbara.

“ Usua l l y, wh e n ph o t o g r a ph in g t r e e s , I g r a v it a t e t o wa r ds u n u s ual pat terns, r e f l e c t i on s, a n d in t e r pla y o f t h e le a v e s , t h e a b s t r a c t t e x t u r e s o f t h e bark , or the n a t ur a l g e o me t r y o f t h e br a n c h e s . T h is t ime , h o we v e r , f o c u s in g m y camera on C a r p i n t e r i a ’ s h is t o r ic T o r r e y p in e , I f o u n d my s e lf v e e r in g o f f in a n unexpected, sub t l e r d i r e c t io n , wa n t in g t o c r e a t e a c o mp o s it io n a t t h e ba s e o f the tree in just t h e r i g h t d a pple d lig h t t o e v o ke t h e s e n s e o f bo t h s t r e n g t h a n d protect ion this m a g n i f i c e n t o ld p in e br in g s t o a ll wh o s h e lt e r e v e n mo me n t a r ily beneath it . A nd I a l so w a n t e d t o f in d a t ie - in , s o me h o w, t o t h e F r ie n ds o f t h e Lib rary purpose m ot i v a t i n g t h is A r t f o r a Ca u s e p r o je c t . ” 74 CARPINTERIAMAGAZINE.com

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Lety Garcia Lety Garcia grew up in Santa Barbara with her mom, grandma, and a large extended family. She was likely a born artist, but it wasn’t until she was 12 years old and a neighbor took her under her wing that she learned how to paint like an artist.

In the many years since, Lety has traveled the whole of California taking photographs that have become the inspiration for her realist paintings. Her work captures the quintessential coastal California natural and urban landscape.

Her friends call her “Carpinteria’s own Edward Hopper,” but she is an artist in her own right who moves fluidly between the stark lines of architecture and the organic figures of plant-life, capturing the geometric volume of light and shadow.

Last year, Lety and two other painters, Kim Snyder and Leigh Sparks, opened Linden Studio, a shared workspace and gallery in Carpinteria’s downtown.

These days, Lety spends long, light-filled days painting the everyday corners of the built world, voluminous succulents, exuberant poolscapes, and crisp-lined figures. In the coming years, expect to see Lety continue to experiment and evolve as a painter.

Custom Frame donor: Gray Cat Frame Shop

“ I n c on si d e r i n g t h e m a k i n g o f a pa in t in g t h a t wo u ld f e a t u r e t h e ma je s t ic T o r r e y p i n e i n t h e c e n t e r of C a r p i nt e r ia , I wa n t e d t o in c o r p o r a t e t wo t h in g s . F ir s t ly , t o r e f e r e n c e h ow l a r g e i n sc ale t h e h o v e r in g t r e e a c t u a lly is , a n d, s e c o n dly , t o r e p r e se n t i t s l on g-h e l d l oc a t io n in t o wn . T h e v ie w I c h o s e t o e x p a n d o n is o n e t h a t you w oul d se e h e a d i ng n o r t h o n Ca r p in t e r ia A v e n u e a n d lo o kin g t o wa r ds t h e r i g h t a s you p a ss b y t h i s h u g e t r e e . I t ’ s kin d o f s u r p r is in g , r e a lly , t h e mo r e y o u l ook a t i t a n d t a k e i n i t s e n o r mit y . ”

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Brian Tepper Known as Rainbow Hand in the Native American art world, Brian Tepper has had a full life. He and his wife, Kathy, have been married for 42 years and have four children, Kym, Bryana, Shelly, and Eric. He worked in the paint shop at Raytheon for 30 years, preparing and painting countermeasure equipment to help protect U.S. aircraft and naval forces.

Along the way, he cultivated a career in fine art, exhibiting his Native American and abstract paintings the world over.

Working in heavy materials—metal brackets, wire, wood, and paint— Brian developed a distinctive abstract style that draws from the earthy color palette and geometry of the Native American tradition, creating large, powerful pieces that evoke a connection to the natural world.

Nowadays, Brian generally foregoes mixed media for acrylics, achieving haptic textures through thick layers of paint on canvases as small as 1.5 by 1.5 inches and as large as 4 by 5 feet. His small works are often centerpieces in miniature installations he creates with his wife, Kathy, who is also an artist.

Brian hopes viewers of his abstract works have strong emotional reactions and see the world they’re familiar with in a completely different way. “I’m always striving to make you stop and wonder.”

“I have lived in Carpinteria for many years and always find something to explore. The Wardholme Torrey Pine on Carpinteria Avenue is one of these treasures.

I w a s r e c e n t ly a s ke d t o pa in t my v is io n o f t h is la n dma r k in a bst ract . A t first, t h a t r e q ue s t s e e me d t o e lu de me , b u t a s I s t u die d it , I ima g in e d y e ars and years of h i st or y an d e v e n t s pu t t in g t h e ir ma r k o n t h e la n ds c a p e . T h is t ree had been f i r m l y r oot e d f o r g e n e r a t io n s o f f a milie s , de c a de s o f c e le b r a t io n s , and disasters a l on g w i t h th e g o o d t ime s . T h e c o lo r s in t h e t r e e r e p r e s e n t a ll o f t hese event s.

T h i s p a i n t e r t r ie d t o c a pt u r e t h e f e e lin g o f t h is h u g e o ld t r e e . S o me see faces or f i g ur e s on t h e c a n v a s . P e r h a ps a c lo s e r lo o k will r e v e a l a ll t h e y ears and t imes t h a t h a v e b e e n a b s o r be d b y t h is wo n de r f u l g if t . ” 

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100% Handshaped

christianbeamish.com @christianbeamish

Friends of the Carpinteria Library

Used Bookstore

“Always good for an armload. Kids books, too!”

5103 Carpinteria Avenue

Next to the Carpinteria Library • Donations welcomed.

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Thinking Outside the : Pot

air plant alchemy sets tillandsia trend W ORDS BY PE T E R DU GR É PH OT OS BY DE BRA HER R ICK

T

Tillandsia Streptophylla

he term air plants explains what they are: plants that can grow loose of soil in the open air.

Their mystique is wrapped in the how. How do these otherworldly freaks of botany survive in the air when other plants require a root system to suck water from soil?

Carpinteria’s Air Plant Alchemy, located at 5649 Casitas Pass Road, a nursery, retail shop and breeding lab for air plants, is a mecca for these mysterious plants. Talk to owner Brian Kollenborn for a few minutes and you get the sense he’s found a plant market niche that’s on the verge of exploding. Air Plant Alchemy develops unique cultivars that are highly valuable to collectors, interior designers, and artists who seek out colorful, spiky flourishes that lend themselves well to living walls and art installations.

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“It’s a developing market that hasn’t been touched.

We’re just beginning to scratch the surface,” says Brian exiting his showroom into the nursery, where he’s been actively breeding air plants for over five years— these are slow reproducers—in preparation for releasing the curious plants into the world.

Though the business name emphasizes the colloquial “air plant,” Brian fashions himself a plant scientist and breeding expert of Tillandsias, the genus under which air plants fall. Flesh in the leaves of many Tillandsias contains super absorbent trichomes that can eat water out of the air and from the surface space of the foliage.

Inside the breeding area, tables strewn with thousands of Tillandsias stretch under three acres of greenhouse ceilings. Blooming Tillandsias are marked with twists of color-coated labels after they’ve been pollinated. Each plant is selected for desired characteristics—bright pinks, purples, or yellows, and heartiness that promotes rigor for the eventual customer—and the plants are hand pollinated so genetics can be mapped over time.

Brian says this process has been ongoing for over five years, the amount of time it takes to successfully tailor genetics that will allow Air Plant Alchemy to have its own unique Tillandsia breeds in the burgeoning market.

In other words, Brian has positioned his company to be on the ground floor of an air plant revolution.

Having collected, bartered, and purchased his original plants over a 25-plus-year span, Brian is clearly playing the long game. “It’s not the Kentucky Derby winner you

Tillandsia Ionantha Fuego

Tillandsia seedlings from the breeding program.

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Tillandsia Ehlersiana

Tillandsia Xerographic

A Tillandsia hybrid grown in snail shells.

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Nursery staff tend plants by hand. want,” he explains of selecting plants for genetics. “It’s his dad.”

Even though growers like Brian are banking on the demand for air plants to continue to trend upward, hobbyists have marveled at the plants for centuries. Brian grew these specimens as a backyard hobbyist when he grew orchids commercially. The orchid market taught him the importance of reading trends in the plant world.

“We were hobby growers, and now it’s turning into an industry,” he says. “We have hybrids of hybrids, and sometimes nobody knows what’s going to happen with the genetics. You get a one-off plant and want to breed for those traits. I’ve lost count but have somewhere near 700 species. You have an eye for it,” he says while picking up a Tillandsia that looks like it belongs on the set of a Tim Burton movie. “The curl on this plant could translate to another plant.”

A I R p l A N T s A R E Al l T h E R AGE

It’s not hard to understand the appeal of air plants.

Compounding the brilliance of individual specimens is the practicality of air plants as a material for building living works of art. Spanish moss draped over an awning or a decorative umbrella adorned with a living fringe are tasteful accents now fully embraced by high-end designers.

Living walls have become de rigueur in contemporary design. For Air Plant Alchemy, the timing of getting into this on-trend market appears to have been spot on. “There was this little window to jump through, and we jumped through with both feet,” Brian says.

A big focus of Air Plant Alchemy has been getting the product ready. Tillandsias notoriously take a long time to reproduce, so now that his breeding program has matured, Brian predicts that the plants and the public are ready at exactly the same time for dramatically expanding the market.

Twenty years ago, major grocery outlets didn’t have whole sections devoted to orchids. Breeders improved the quality and accessibility of the trending plant, which

Tillandsias for days. made it possible to make affordable orchids a staple item for home decor. Brian watched this phenomenon unfold and has bet big on replicating it. “There are eight or fewer true breeders in all of the United States,” he says. 

AI R p ANT C ARE

Despite their resilient traits, emphasized by needing no growing medium, air plants do need a little TLC. Give them a thorough soak, ideally full submersion, every few days and increase frequency of watering as temperatures increase.

Being subtropical, these plants love a lot of light, but indirect sun is the best.

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Wild in Carpinteria

,

WORDS & PHOTOS BY CH UCK GRA H A M They’re one of the bottom dwellers of the forest, especially when the trails and leaf litter of the coastal range are sodden. Following winter rains, when creeks are brimming, rough-skinned newts (Taricha granulosa) revel in the ebb and flow of slowmoving runnels. They love the wet and are in no big hurry to get anywhere, so give the 4-to-7-inch-long salamander a wide berth, because the skin of these granular amphibians exudes a potent neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin.

DID YOU KNOW? 1. Taricha granulosa are found on the West Coast from Alaska to Southern California.

2. The brownish, to yellow, to orange-colored rough-skinned newts breed in vegetation along the edges of slow or still water bodies.

Eggs are laid on stems, twigs, and leaves of submerged vegetation a few inches above water. Parental care is non-existent after birth.

3. I can’t see why someone would want to eat a rough-skinned newt, but if ingested, rough-skinned newt poison can be fatal to humans, with symptoms including hypertension, respiratory paralysis, and neurological unresponsiveness.

4. When threatened, rough-skinned newts assume a defensive posture (unken reflex), curling their tail and contorting their head backward, while exposing their brightly colored underbelly. This somehow deters most threats.

5. The common garter snake is their top predator. Somehow the garter snake is immune to the newt’s neurotoxin. In turn, newts feed on frog eggs, invertebrates, and small fish.

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If you spend any time in Carpinteria’s coastal mountains and beyond, you’re bound to run into a thicket of poison oak. The big question, are you one of the lucky few, maybe one in every 10 people, who has no reaction to poison oak at all?

DID you kNoW? 1. Toxicodendron diversilobum is easy to recognize. Just remember, “leaves of three, let it be.” Poison oak generally has three leaflets per stem. It’s also pretty with red, green, and orange foliage brightening riparian areas.

2. Deer like it. They gobble the stuff down like a backcountry salad.

There’s something for everyone.

3. The toxic component of poison oak is a chemical called “urushiol” (pronounced “yoo-Roo-she-all”). In fact, urushiol is present throughout the plant, including the surface oils on the leaves and green stems. This is especially true in spring, when new foliage literally shimmers with toxic oils.

4. It doesn’t take much, and only a small amount of exposure can trigger a reaction. A single droplet of urushiol on your skin contains more than enough toxin to cause a reaction, and a small amount is easily spread across your skin by perspiration or physical contact while hiking.

5. Don’t be fooled by what appear to be dead or dormant stems. urushiol oil has lasting power, and can stay active on any surface, including dead plants for up to five years! Burning dead or dormant poison oak branches is an especially dangerous endeavor, as inhaling urushiol oils released with smoke can produce disastrous results.  WINTER2020 85

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Choose your adventure from the top of Franklin Trail.

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Community Reach on the

Franklin Trail W o Rds & Ph oT os By Ch uCk GRA h A M

A

shy, wind-whipped dust devil swirled skyward as I followed a lifeless scar on the farthest stretch of the Franklin Trail. During the super bloom of 2017, the route was virtually a botanical garden of California wildflowers. Nine months later, the narrow trail was a moonscape.

The Thomas Fire of December 2017 scorched the Santa Ynez Mountains; the chaparral-choked coastal range had been overgrown for decades. That was followed by torrents of rain on Jan. 9, 2018, which simultaneously destroyed wilderness and lives alike with biblical-level mudslides that reconfigured canyons, creeks, trails, and even nearby neighborhoods.

Trails all along the front-country of Santa Barbara and Montecito were closed to trail users. Initially, that was the case for the Franklin Trail, but that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t last long. Undeterred, Carpinterians continued accessing the route, not just for recreation but also for the recovery of a trail that had been inaccessible for 100 years. Despite treacherous trail conditions, trail crews worked hard to reestablish huge swaths of the route washed away by Fire and floods left a moonscape in place of the trail.

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relentless rains, rock, and mudslides on the 15.8-mile out-and-back-trail. The local community chipped in too, helping to clear the lower portions of the trail known as Phase I and II. “Franklin is directly connected with the Carpinteria community,” says John Culbertson, a Carpinterian since 1983, former long-time firefighter and fire manager, and a steward for Friends of the Franklin Trail. “The people on the trail are friendly. That’s what public access is all about, a break in your day. No money required, just go. It means a lot to a whole bunch of people.”

S TE W A Rd S o f T h E fR A N k l I N T R AI l

Being one of the steepest and longest trails in the Santa Barbara front-country, Franklin Trail will always be in need of maintenance, especially on the upper reaches.

Wheelbarrows, shovels, pickaxes, tree saws, and other tools for trail building are typically in use by trail crews, but it’s not uncommon to see community members going to work on the popular route as well. This was especially true following the Thomas Fire and shortly after the colossal debris flow.

Before these disasters occurred, the Franklin Trail was well-traveled by day hikers, trail runners, and mountain

bikers, all walks of life enjoying a unique hiking experience in the coastal mountains. That enthusiasm never waned after those back-to-back catastrophes. In fact, there’s been a heightened sense of pride to reopen the trail to the Santa Ynez Ridge ever since.

“We knew the fire service was overwhelmed by the magnitude of the fire and that the Franklin (Trail) was a community resource that had to be saved,” says Culbertson. “We also had a good relationship with the (Los Padres National) Forest Service, so while the fire was still smoking the Montecito Trails Foundation and Friends of Franklin stewards approached Thomas Fire management and got permission to go up the trail and save what signs and benches we could.”

Phase I of the trail was covered in a lot of charred debris and needed some rebuilding, so stewards like Culbertson, Ben Anderson, and others, along with the Rincon Riders Mountain Biking club performed the brunt of the physical work.

“To keep the trail open, the community came out en masse with rakes and gardening gloves—old folks, young kids,” continues Culbertson. “It was truly a community action.”

After reestablishing trail signs along Phase I and II,

Hikers and bicyclists return to the charred trail.

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Trail steward John Culbertson with wife Kathy

trail crews scraped and cut a path all the way to the top of Phase III at Alder Saddle. Then the rains and mudslides occurred and the process started all over again. This time, huge swaths of Phase III were gone and to hike it was a real effort.

“Again, the community came out with goodwill and did most of the labor,” says Culbertson. “We owe thanks to the Bucket Brigade who besides much fine work in Montecito, set a standard and legitimized this form of community action for us little guys. No official organization, no permission, just work.”

According to Culbertson, Southern California Edison (SCE) had to cope with post-fire reconstruction and replacement of infrastructure all along Phase I and II. Government planning called for closure of the trail.

“It was a huge job that impacted the trail,” he said.

“But steward Carl Stucky led the effort to team up with SCE and their contractors, and we kept the trail open for the community.”

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Yucca

Checkerspot butterfly

Wooly blue curls Indian Pink

Phacelia

Brush rabbit

Purple sage

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Lazuli bunting

F R o M T h E GR o uN d u p

You can’t go wrong talking Santa Barbara County trails with Ray Ford. After all, he wrote the trail bible, “Santa Barbara Day Hikes,” in 1992. Although the Franklin Trail doesn’t appear in his book, the route had been on his radar since the 1980s. Today Ford runs the website Santa Barbara Outdoors and continues to be a strong trail advocate throughout the county.

Back in 2007, Ford received permission through the Santa Barbara District to explore the Franklin Trail from the Santa Ynez Mountain crest down toward Carpinteria, but the Forest Service’s interest in re-opening the historic trail waned following a throng of fires in the front and backcountry.

Later, the effort picked up steam again, easements were nearly settled, and by 2011 fundraising had begun in earnest through Friends of the Franklin Trail. Community members celebrated the grand opening of the first 2.25 miles of trail on Nov. 1, 2013.

Los Padres National Forest Service Ranger John “Pancho” Smith was instrumental in getting Phase III on the work docket and gave Ford permission to cut trail on Phase III in 2013. The full trail was officially open by 2017, except for the upper section of Phase III. That work was scheduled for December 2017, but then the Thomas Fire scorched the region.

“The fire burned almost everything on the entire frontcountry behind Carpinteria, causing major damage to the

trail,” says Ford. “I did an initial survey of the trail two days after the fire burned through the area and discovered that the trail would require major restoration for safe use.”

The winter of 2018/19 saw substantial rain slowing efforts to rebuild the upper reaches of Phase III, where the trail steepens over the last 2.7 miles. Work first began after March 2018. However, consistent rains arrived through the following winter. Ford and dedicated trail crews kept at it through a wet and colorful spring, another super bloom brightening the coastal range and rivaling the one of 2017.

“Given I was up there for almost all of the restoration this spring seems like a long slog, but it turned out that the damage wasn’t as bad as first thought, with a lot of the slump material fairly easy to deal with,” continues Ford. “(It’s) still a very dangerous trail on the upper part with long drop-offs. Fortunately, the morning glory and other (vegetation) is helping to stabilize the hillsides.”

Ford says the Franklin Trail will always be vulnerable to major rain events due to the sheer cliffs of Phase III, the business of trail building into the National Forest a continuous work in progress.

Nevertheless, due to the community’s involvement and dedication, the Franklin Trail is one of Carpinteria’s many pleasures that have survived the threat of wildfires and mudslides. When Ford reflects on the hard work that made the trail and its incredible panoramic views accessible to all, he simply says, “(It’s) a very good feeling.”  WINTER2020 91

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Lt. Ugo “Butch” Arnoldi at your service.

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Lt. Arnoldi with Senior Deputy Tom Green, left, and Sergeant Chris Corbett.

question & answer

Lt. “Butch” Arnoldi W o Rds by A My M A RI E oRo Z co Ph oT os by dE b RA h E RRI ck

O

fficially, he’s Ugo Peter Arnoldi, Sheriff’s Lieutenant, Coastal Patrol Bureau, Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department. Many know him as Butch Arnoldi, head of the Carpinteria sub-station. The temporary police station on Via Real is a no-frills place where a calm voice from the police radio interrupts the quiet. During this interview, Lt. Arnoldi simultaneously answered questions and processed information from the radio. Police work runs in Arnoldi’s blood. His great-grandfather wore the badge in Italy, his wife is an administrative officer for the department, his daughter is a deputy sheriff, and his son recently graduated from the police academy in Camarillo.

Ho w A b o u T A b A Ckg R o u Nd C HEC k?

I’m a second-generation Santa Barbaran. My grandfather emigrated from Italy and worked as a stone mason by day and restauranteur by night. Arnoldi’s Café in Santa Barbara. My father also worked as a stone mason. The two of them are the craftsmen behind many of the stone bridges and walls lining the streets in Santa Barbara and Montecito.

(Some of their work survived the debris flow.)

I grew up on Santa Barbara’s Eastside and graduated from Santa Barbara High School. I earned a degree in

political science with a minor in athletic coaching from UCSB in 1973.

ANd AfT ER gRAdu AT I oN?

I spent summers working for my dad in the mason business as well as the restaurant.

In September of ’73, I became a reserve deputy with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. I was a Level I Reserve Deputy. You are qualified to ride by yourself.

From February to August of ’74, I was a one-person unit. I had everything from Santa Barbara City limits to Ventura County Line (excluding the incorporated City of Carpinteria). I was a 22-year-old man.

On my 23rd birthday, Aug. 16, 1974, they told me I was hired as a full-time deputy, effective Monday, Aug. 19.

That was the first new hire in 2.5 years. I basically worked patrol. On Aug. 19 of this year, I completed 45 years as a full-time peace officer.

I returned to school to get a master ’s degree in public administration and also earned a lifetime junior college teaching credential (in June of 1979).

wHEN dId you bEgIN woRkINg IN CARPINTERIA? From February 2001 to February 2003, I was the

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Carpinteria Station Commander. Basically, the same position I have now. I came back in December 2018.

Do y ou hAvE A RET I R EmENT DATE ?

Retirement will probably be in September 2021. That’ll give me 25 years as a Sheriff’s lieutenant and 47 years in the profession. I made lieutenant in September of ’96. I’m the longest serving lieutenant in the department. And I’m the most senior person in the department as far as time goes.

Sou NDS l IkE y ou l IkE y ou R j ob.

I do. I enjoy what I do.

Santa Barbara County Sheriff John Carpenter swears in Deputy Butch Arnoldi in August 1974.

TE l l u S Abou T y ou R Du T I ES.

Basically, running the station. Being the liaison with not only with the City of Carpinteria but also the Montecito community. My collateral duties, I am the Chaplain Duty liaison. I’ve been doing that for many, many years.

WhEN y ou f I R ST ST AR T ED AS A D E P uTy ShER I f f , WhAT WAS ThE N u mb ER oNE CRImE I N CARPI NT ER I A oR ThE moST C o mmo N?

Residential burglary. That was the most common serious crime; let’s put it that way.

IS I T ST I l l To DAy ?

Yes, it still is. Well, theft is … but that can be from stealing a pencil to anything. Our major crimes from last year were burglaries; we had 36 for the City of Carpinteria.

Aggravated assault, we had 20. Motor vehicle thefts, we had 28. So residential burglaries still are the top crime.

Deputy Arnoldi, 1974, stands with car 54.

Sou NDS l IkE C R I mES hAvE ST AyE D CoNS IS TE NT.

There was an unfortunate homicide (in July), the first in many, many years… We haven’t had any forcible rapes – reported, because you know it happens – we haven’t had any in about two years. Robberies, which is outstanding, we’ve only had one. Last year and this year, we’ve only had one.

WhAT Ch ANgES h AvE y ou NoTICE D IN ThE C ARPI NT ER I A Commu NI T y I N RE lATIoN To l AW ENf oR C EmENT ?

Lt. Butch Arnoldi

The traffic issue, and it’s really beyond our control.

Traffic has naturally increased because you have a population increase. And now with all the renovation and the overpasses and all that, now you’re condensing and putting more traffic in even a smaller area making the problem even worse. That’s the biggest frustration I get from the general public—the traffic issue. You can’t settle it overnight. You have to make your overpasses earthquake safe. A lot of the stuff has been in the planning stages for years. We’re going to just have to live with it and move on. Hopefully in two years it’ll all be done. And hopefully they’ll have widened everything enough.

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I f b u R g l A R y I s T h E # 1 CR ImE, whAT AdvI C E d o yo u h A v E f o R C A R P IN TERI ANs?

whAT o Th ER Th I Ngs C AN INdIvI d uAls d o To PR oT EC T ThE msE l vEs oR kE E P sAfE.

So far this year, we’ve three incidents reported.

Institutional burglaries, which are things like schools and that nature, commercial burglaries, and residential burglaries. So total burglaries, we’ve had six reported so far (July). 2018 we had 27; 2017 we had 59; 2016 we had 50.

So, we’re doing very, very well.

Assaults we’re doing very good on. All assaults, in 2016 we had 99, 2017 we had 86, 2018 we had 85. In 2019, we had only 20 reported. That’s a tremendous decrease.

Be aware of your surroundings. If you see something suspicious, a person or a vehicle, by all means, call us.

That’s what we are here for. We had one last month, a person saw two guys walking in her neighbor ’s backyard, an open field, they were wearing hoodies … she thought, “That’s not right,” so she called us. We got there; they got away. They saw us coming. They know people are looking out for each other here. The person who called us prevented one of her neighbors from getting ripped off.

d o yo u A T T R Ib u T E T hA T To ANyTh I Ng?

I s y ou R dAy mosT l y hER E, AT yo uR dE s k?

I hope it’s the higher visibility of deputies out there patrolling. Also, the really important thing is, and people don’t realize how important it is, is for them to call us.

Anytime you see a suspicious vehicle or person, call us.

It does no good to call us after the fact. If it’s nothing, it’s nothing. That’s OK. We’d respond to that and make our contact and make sure everything is OK. That’s what we are here for, 24/7.

It all depends. There’s a lot of meetings. I’m one of those who likes to be very hands-on. If I hear a hot call (a serious crime in progress) go, I’ll respond to that call. The other day we had a guy passing a bad check at the liquor store in Summerland. I knew two units were tied up with an incident in the city (Carpinteria) with a supervisor.

That left only the county car, so I went up.

w IT h b u R g l A R y, C o u l d m osT of ThE m hAvE b E E N P R E vE N T E d ?

We’re here to serve them, to assist our community and work with our community. We’re not the bad guys. If you’ve been victimized, call us. We are humans just like everyone else. We have feelings … It’s not as bad as it used to be, but to go out and be called names and degraded is absolutely ridiculous. If people don’t understand why we do some things, then, by all means come on in and we’ll talk about it. 

People will leave their doors unlocked thinking, “Well, I’m just going down to the store.” Or not use their alarm system. Why did you spend all that money on that system if you’re not going to activate it? You know, bad guys are watching. They see you drive away, they’ll sweep in and rip you off. We’ve had multi-thousand-dollar burglaries in the Montecito area.

ANyTh I Ng El sE y ou ’ d l IkE RE Ad E Rs To kNo w?

Lt. Butch Arnoldi and wife Marla Irene with, from left, son Giuseppe, daughter Francesca, and future son-in-law Dustin Winebrenner at Giuseppe’s graduation from Ventura Training Academy Center.

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Tamales: LA C O C INA D E AMO R WORDS & P H OT OS BY DEBRA H ERRI CK

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From left, Alberto De La Paz, Maria Gutierrez, Reyna De La Paz, Alexander Gamez, Vicky Gutierrez, Lupe and Luis Gutierrez.

W

hen María Lupe Gutierrez was 8 years old, her mother taught her to make tortillas by hand over an open fire. Nestled below Mexico’s mountains of Michoacán, and alongside the volcanic region of Pico de Tancítar, is the rural town of Gildardo Magaña (population <1,500), where, as a child, Lupe discovered her talent and love of cooking.

Today, Lupe lives in Carpinteria, and shares her family’s culinary tradition with her two daughters, Vicky and Maria, who learned from watching their mamá, just like she did. From her kitchen window, Lupe is comforted by the Santa Ynez mountains that remind her of the mountainscape of her ranchito, where she spent long hours cooking by her mother ’s side, gathering timber for the cooking fire, deseeding and deveining chiles, and crushing spices in the molcajete. While other children were playing games, Lupe was making chiles rellenos, mole de olla, barbacoa, birria, and tamales.

Many of Mexico’s most popular contemporary dishes are from recipes that originated in the Mesoamerican region. Tamales—nixtamalized-corn flour dough pillows stuffed with spicy, savory sauces, and protein—were first made by pueblos originarios (pre-Columbian communities) from Mexico to Nicaragua as early as 100 AD. Corn or maize, the tamale’s main ingredient, is the soul of Mexican cuisine. Among some Mesoamerican civilizations, tamales

were the food of the gods. When Lupe and her daughters prepare tamales, a traditional meal on Christmas or New Year ’s Day, they bring Lupe’s ranchito to their kitchen, along with Mexico’s cultural history.

Lupe’s pork in red salsa tamales are rich and nutty, and her chicken in green salsa tamales, tart and light.

Both are stuffed in a fluffy, fragrant corn masa, folded into corn husks, and made with Lupe’s secret ingredients: voluntad, bondad, cariño, y amor (intention, good will, affection, and love). Like many holiday foods, making tamales takes time. Family members gather in the kitchen to help cook as the house fills with the rich aroma of toasted spices like cumin, chile guajillo, chile de arbol, and Laurel leaves.

Doña Lupe’s red and green salsa guisados (ragouts) prepared with the traditional seasoning of Michoacán, Mexico, make for a rich and flavorful stuffing in holiday tamales.

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Don Luis mixes fresh salsa in a stone molcajete (mortar).

Like many Latin American families, the Gutierrezes typically have tamales as a late evening meal on Christmas Eve before opening presents.

Maria and Vicky, both financial agents, have grown up watching their mother cook her ancestral recipes. Maria is also the program director at the Carpinteria Boys & Girls Club. Named after her mom (and called Lupita by the family), Maria loves to be in the kitchen. Her salsas, delicately flavored with serious heat, are as good or better than any you’d find in a restaurant.

When Lupe is making her tamales, her grandchildren, Reyna, 4, and Alexander, 7, stand on step stools to help their abuela knead dough, soak corn husks and stir cazuelas.

At Lupe’s home along Carpinteria Creek, the recipes from her ranchito are passed down from generation to generation.

Between Carpinteria and Ventura, Lupe and her family can find all the ingredients they need, and Luis, Lupe’s husband and Maria and Vicky’s father, grows many of the chile peppers and herbs in his potted plant garden.

Throughout the Americas, there are many different kinds of tamales, some say as many as 500 in Mexico alone. Lupe, like so many, doesn’t cook from a written recipe. She’s guided by the oral history she learned from her mother, and by her own knowledge and intuition gained over decades at the stove.

For Carpinteria Magazine Lupe wrote down her tamale recipe for the first time: calculating ingredients that she had never considered with precision and a process that she hadn’t before thought of linearly. On the page, Lupe has measured her love in counts of chiles California, tablespoons of sesame, and pinches of salt.

When making a pot of tamales for your family this holiday season, be sure to remember Lupe’s secret ingredients! 

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s A l sA v E R d E C hI Ck EN T A MAl E f I l l I N G 4 8 2 5 ½ 1 1 3 1

j al ap e ñ os An a h e i m c h i l i s gree n b e l l p e p p e r s to mat i l l os Table sp oon c um i n Table sp oon se sa m e se e d s Table sp oon or e ga n o l aur e l l e a v e s Table sp oon ol i v e oi l

Wash , d e v e i n , a n d d e se e d c h i l i s. I n a bl ender, m i x j a l a p e ñ os, c h i l i s, t om a t illo s , b e ll peppers , se sa m e , or e ga n o, ga r l i c , s a lt , l a u r e l, pepper, a n d c um i n . P ut t o t h e si d e .

Wash c h i c k e n a n d c ut i n sm a l l c hu n ks . s a u t e ch i cken w i t h ga r l i c i n ol i v e oi l ov e r m e diu m h e a t fo r 15 m i n ut e s or un t i l g ol d e n b r ow n a n d s o f t t o th e to uc h . s h red c h i c k e n a n d a d d g r e e n sau c e . s a lt t o taste. s a ut e 1 5 m i n ut e s.

M AsA 6 2 5 2

c u ps ma s a h a r in a c u ps la r d c u ps wa r m wa t e r t e a s p o o n s s a lt ( o pt io n a l: o n io n p o wde r , c u min , c h ili po wde r )

I n a la r g e b o wl, mix ma s a h a r in a wit h wa r m wa t e r . l e t s it f o r 2 0 min u t e s , t h e n be a t wit h a n e le c t r ic mix e r o n lo w s pe e d u n t il a do u g h f o r ms .

A dd s a lt a n d s e a s o n in g s a n d mix t o c o mb in e .

In a separate bowl, whip lard with an electric mixer for three minutes or until fluffy. Add lard to dough mixture, beat until well combined.

When ready, dough will be the consistency of peanut butter.

TAM AlE As s EMb l y 8 1

o u n c e s dr ie d c o r n h u s ks la r g e bo wl o f wa r m wa t e r

s o a k c o r n h u s ks in wa r m wa t e r f o r 30 minut es. s pr e a d ma s a o n c o r n h u s ks a t a ½- inch t hick ness. Place a s p o o n f u l o f t h e f illin g in t o t h e c e n t e r . fold sides of the husk s in t o wa r d t h e c e n t e r a n d f o ld o v e r t h e top. steam for 1 hour. s e r v e wa r m wit h s o u r c r e a m a n d f r esh salsa. 

s A l sA R o j A Po Rk T AMA l E f I l l I NG 18 8 1 8 1 1 ½ ½ 1 1

ch i l i s C a l i f or n i a ch i l i s G ua j i l l o sl i ce d on i on Table sp oon f r e sh ga r l i c Table sp oon sa l t Table sp oon l a ur e l l e a v e s Tabl e sp oon b l a c k p e p p e r Tabl e sp oon c um i n po und p or k Tabl e sp oon ol i v e oi l

Wash , d e v e i n , a n d d e se e d c h i l i s. I n a b le n de r , mi x chi l i s, on i on , g a r l i c , sa l t , l a ur e l , p e ppe r a n d cumi n. P ut t o t h e si d e .

Wash p or k a n d c ut i n t o sm a l l c hu n ks . s a u t e po rk wi t h ga r l i c i n ol i v e oi l ov e r m e diu m h e a t fo r 15 m i n ut e s or un t i l g ol d e n b r ow n a n d s o f t t o th e to uc h . s h red p or k a n d a d d r e d sa uc e . sa lt t o t a s t e . s aute 15 m i n ut e s.

4. Fold in sides first, then fold down the top. No need to fold in the bottom.

1. Allow plenty of time to soak the corn husks so they fold without breaking.

2. Use a soup spoon to spread ingredients.

3. Spread masa to form a large rectangle on husk and spoon in filling so it’s framed by the masa.

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B E A Ch l Iq u o R

Best known for their award winning burritos, Beach Liquor has a vast array of snacks, drinks and adult beverages as well as a full Mexican Grill.

Must Try: Any of the burritos or tortas 794 Linden Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-684-2919

Ch o Co l A T S du CAlIB RESSAN

“Tempting your taste buds” with confectionery delights expressing a true joie de vivre!

Must Try: French Bisous: Dark and milk chocolate ganache flavored with tangerine liquor.

4193 Carpinteria Ave., Ste 4, Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-684-6900 • chococalibressan.com

dA N N y’S dE l I

Danny’s Deli has been serving Carpinteria for 32 years with Tri-Tip, Turkey and Roast Beef all cooked on site.

Must Try: Famous Tri-Tip Sandwich 4890 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-684-2711

Recommended If you’re looking for anything from a snack to a nice dinner out with friends or family, try some of Carpinteria’s favorite local restaurants.

s t a E

T hE PAl MS

Mouth-watering steak and seafood you can cook yourself, delicious salad bar with to-diefor croutons! And live music on the weekends!

Must Try: Filet Mignon dinner 701 Linden Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-684-3811 • thepalmscarpinteria.com

dElgAdo’S MExICAN RESTAuRANT

REy ES MAR k ET

T h E F o o d l IA IS o N

REy NAl do’ S BAkE Ry

FoSTERS FREEzE

T hE ShoAlS REST Au RANT

Ih o P

SI AM El EPhANT T hAI R E S TAuRANT

Carpinteria’s Classic Mexican Restaurant since 1965, family-run restaurant offering enchiladas, fajitas & other Mexican eats, plus cocktails.

Must Try: Traditional Burrito 4401 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-684-4822 • delgadoscarp.com

Catering. Counter. Classes. Utilizing local, organic ingredients. Daily rotating entrees, soups and desserts, seasonal menus and gourmet salad bar.

Must Try: Avocado Meets Toast 1033 Casitas Pass Rd., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-200-3030

Locally owned branch of a longtime Californiabased fast-food chain serving traditional burgers & delicious soft-serve ice cream.

Must-Try: Chocolate Dipped Soft Serve 5205 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-684-3602

Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.

Must Try: Pancakes of course 1114 Casitas Pass Rd., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-566-4926

J A Ck’S B IS T R o

Healthy California Cuisine. Enjoy freshly baked bagels with whipped cream cheeses. Breakfast, lunch, and beyond!

Must Try: Blackstone Benedict: w/avo, bacon, tomato 5050 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-566-1558 • bagelnet.com

P A CIF IC h E A l Th F o odS

Pacific Health Foods serves the best smoothies in Carpinteria. Also fresh juices, organic baked goods, sandwiches, acai bowls, coffee & tea.

Must Try: Scarlet Begonia Juice 944 Linden Ave., Carpinteria, CA, 93013 805-684-2115

Folks come from near and far to eat these burritos, tacos, tortas and other tasty options.

Close your eyes and you’re in Mexico.

Must Try: Chile Relleno Soup, Chilaquiles, Gordita 4890 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-684-2711

Mexican & European Bakery. Handmade, traditional Mexican fare to the finest quality wedding cakes & desserts.

Must Try: Chile Verde Pork, Eggs & Cheese.

895 Linden Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-684-4981 • reynaldosbakery.com

Fresh seafood selections, steaks, rack of lamb, pasta and many housemade desserts, cocktails, craft beers and fine wines.

Must Try: The Banana Reef 6602 Old Pacific Coast Hwy, Ventura, CA 93001 805-652-1381 • cliffhouseinn.com/shoals.htm

With its reputation of authenticity and excellence, Siam Elephant stays true to the culinary culture and influences of Thailand.

Must Try: Pad Thai 509 Linden Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-684-2391 • siamelephantusa.com

T hE SPoT

Just steps from the beach, The Spot is a classic hamburger stand serving up delicious American and Mexican food at affordable prices!

Must Try: Famous Chili Cheese Fries 389 Linden Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-684-6311

u NC lE C hEN REST AuRANT

Since 1991, Uncle Chen has been proud to serve local produce from the farmers market and homemade recipes.

Must Try: Casitas Green 1025 Casitas Pass Rd., Carpinteria, CA 93013 805-566-3334

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REAL ESTATE REV I EW

Roots Planted

Edwards Family

Sarahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kindness, integrity, and knowledge of this area were exactly what we needed when it was time for our growing family to sell our condo and buy a larger home. She handled the sale of our condo and the purchase of our new home easily and graciously. We are extremely grateful to have worked with Sarah and are recommending her to everyone we know

that appreciates low stress real estate.

-Aaron, Erica, Hudson and Jordan.

For every house we sell or buy together, I will make a donation in your name to the Carpinteria non-profit of your choice. Just a little way to let the community know you are here and that you care too.

Sarah Aresco-Smith DRE Lic. #01484280

â&#x20AC;˘

LIC#01882574

805.252.3868

Sarah@lovecarpinteria.com

Seascape Realty

Available properties at LoveCarpinteria.com

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REAL ESTATE REV I EW

REAL ESTATE SALES BUYING OR SELLING

GARY GOLDBERG Realtor | Broker | Attorney (805) 455-8910 | BRE: 01172139 1086 Coast Village Road Santa Barbara, California 93108

www.garygoldberg.net gary@coastalrealty.com

WHETHER YOU ARE BUYING OR SELLING IN THE CARPINTERIA, SANTA BARBARA OR MONTECITO AREA, I PROVIDE IN-DEPTH ASSISTANCE FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS.

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

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EAT. SLEEP. SWIM. REPEAT. 3 Bedrooms + Office / 4 Baths / Spanish Hacienda / Carpinteria / $1,795,000

DANA ZERTUCHE & LORI BOWLES 805.565.8198 info@Montecito.Associates C OLDWE LL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE

CalRE#01465425 CalRE#01961570

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. Š2019 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved.

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Carpinteria Sales Statistics between 10.01.18 – 09.30.19

94

Total Single Family Home Sales

74

Total Condo Sales

$1,115,000 Median Single Family Home Price

$2,570,833 Average Single Family Home Price

$23,000,000 Highest Sale

$565,000 Lowest Single Family Home Market Sale Sold 5280 Ogan Road $1,050,000

Jon-Ryan Schlobohm

schlobohm-hodson.com

— Broker Associate 805.450.3307 jr@jon-ryan.com DRE 01876237

Kirk G. Hodson

— Realtor 805.886.6527 kirk@kirkhodson.com DRE 01908650

Compass is a licensed real estate broker (01991628) in the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice.

Do you know what is happening in Carpinteria real estate?

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REAL ESTATE REV I EW

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE HOM ES

•

VIEWS

$1,309,950 (NEW PRICE)

Completely remodeled in highly desirable Concha Loma.

Easy access to the beach 5632CallePacific.com

•

LIF EST YLES

$695,000

$1,399,00

Stunning ocean and main polo field viewing from corner unit. Best Buy!

2 houses on 1 lot, downtown Carpinteria

4855Sawyer.com

624polocondo.com

Y O L A N D A VA N W I N G E R D E N

805.570.4965 Yolanda@AskYo.com

DRE: 01308141

Seascape Realty Buying or selling a home with us is like a walk on the beach!

Beautifully maintained & upgraded… with lots of natural light. This 2 bed, 2 bath condominium has lovely bamboo floors. Kitchen has marble counter tops. An end unit with a balcony off the living room. Amenities: Pool, Spa, & Clubhouse. Near downtown.

Offered at $545,000 Shirley Kimberlin at 805-886-0228

SOld!

2 BlOCKS frOm WOrld’S SafeSt BeaCH…Large Concha Loma 3 bed, 2 bath home vaulted ceilings, paneled garage, closet space & a wood burning fireplace. Pelican water system, lap pool and plenty of space for family get togethers.

Offered at $1,050,000 nancy Branigan at 805-886-7593 or terry Stain at 805-705-1310

SOld!

Beautiful family HOme in a great COmmunity... Lovely 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath in a wonderful development, The Meadow. Spacious living room with a fireplace, family room, dining room with adjacent enclosed patio, and two car attached garage.

Offered at $849,000 Shirley Kimberlin at 805.886.0228

Carpinteria BeaCH COndO! BeachWalk community home is ready to be used as a beach getaway or as full time dreamy living. 2 bedrrom 2 bath + loft space. 2 car garage.

Offered at $678,000 Sarah aresco Smith 805.252.3868

SOld!

ExploRE ouR BEACHSIDE VACATIoN RENTAlS AT SEASCApEVACATIoN.Com

4915-C Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria • 805.684.4161

DRE Lic. #01484280

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REAL ESTATE REV I EW

e

iv t c A

Realtor Associate BRE# 1080272

Cell: (805) 886-3838 carolynwood@cox.net www.Sothebyshomes.com www.santabarbara-realtor.com 1482 East Valley Road Montecito, CA 93108

1559 MEAdow CiRClE –– Three bedrooms with two and one half baths. Master downstairs.

Lovely location in the development. Community Pool, central location. close to town, beach & shopping. offered at $799,999

Successfully Serving Carpinteria Real Estate for 28 years

Looking to vacation in Carpinteria?

Fantastic, fully stocked, 3 bedroom, 2 bath roomy condo with large front yard and private hot-tub area. This condo is perfect for a large family.

It is walking distance to the beach and downtown Carpinteria.

Carpinteria Shores is right on the sand. Select from a range of prices for our individually owned and decorated two bedroom vacation rental condos which sleep up to six comfortably. Everything included except linens, which we’re pleased to provide upon request. Available for short or long term stays.

Furnished three bedroom, two bath home in downtown Carpinteria available for two months or more.

Easy walk to all of Carpinteria.

The Beachcomber is located right across the street from Carpinteria Beach, where you can swim or just relax. At night you can enjoy the beautiful sunsets. The downstairs apartments with patios are available for weekly rentals.

805.684.4101 5441 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013

www.murphykingrealestate.com

DEBORAH MURPHY

Broker/Property Manager/Notary DRE #00580025

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Seahou

JOIN THE INTEREST LIST TODAY!

Offering 31 Coastal Farmhouse-inspired flats, townhomes and single family detached homes, Seahouse by Warmington Residential presents an opportunity to own a brand new home in Carpinteria.

To learn more and join the interest list please visit www.LiveAtSeahouse.com

The neighborhood is located at 1300 Cravens Lane, just one and a half miles from the beach and downtown.

Nestled among preserved heritage trees, Seahouse will include a community pavilion and a natural spring at the heart of the neighborhood.

New Luxury Homes in Carpinteria Approx. 1,261 to 2,289 Sq. Ft. 2 to 4 Bedrooms / Smart home technology Private yards / Lifestyle amenities 1300 Cravens Lane, Carpinteria, CA 93013

Call or text for information: 805.833.5870 Four moderate income homes set aside for qualified applicants. Warmington Residential is part of the Warmington group of companies. Square footages are approximate only. Rendering is an artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conception and may not be an accurate reflection of all community details, which are subject to change at any time and without prior notice. Prices effective date of publication and subject to change without notice. Models depicted do not reflect racial preference. October 24, 2019 4:40 PM

BUILDING 4A

GREEN HERON SPRINGS

COLOR SCHEME 1

CARPINTERIA, CA

Š 2018 WILLIAM HEZMALHALCH ARCHITECTS, INC. DBA WHA2 .

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2016101 | 06-10-19

10/24/19 4:44 PM 11/4/19 12:46 PM

DESIGN PRINT BIND DELIVER

805-684-0013 rockprint.com …EXCELLENT, BEAUTIFUL, AND FANTASTIC…ON TIME, AS PROMISED

4850A Carpinteria Avenue Carpinteria, CA 93013

INSPIRATION COMES FROM MANY PLACES. THE PRINTING COMES FROM US. DIGITAL PRINTING OFFSET PRINTING LETTERPRESS BOOKLETS FOLDING BUSINESS CARDS POSTERS • FLYERS 108 CARPINTERIAMAGAZINE.com

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Mention this ad for 10% off your first order.

Applies to first time customers only.

11/4/19 12:47 PM

25

Celebrating

t Daily Updates

Lic. #00623395

aug. 16 – 22, 2018

coastalview.com

Chamber’s Culinary Crawl is back

2

FFA brings home top prizes

10

Surf ‘n’ Suds pours for good causes

12

JGs wrap up summer session

14

JOSHUA CURRY

On Saturday, Aug. 11, Surf Happens Surf School launched its first ever Board Riders Club Surf and Skate Contest. Local 14 and under kids enjoyed a fun day of low-pressure competition while showcasing their skills. The surfing event was held in 2- to 4-foot south swell at Santa Claus Lane offering highly contestable waves for all competitors. “All divisions showcased skills well beyond their years with smiles ear to ear,” said Chris Keet, owner of Surf Happens. Pictured, U10 surfers charge into the first semi-final, from left, Jamie Ittstein, Santino Molfetta and Dominic Arce. Read more on page 15.

BRE#01383773

805.452.3052

Nhussey@ColdwellBanker.com

MAGAZINE

Coastal View News

This week’s listings on the back page

Vol. 24, no. 47

winter2020

805-886-0228 skimberlin@aol.com

Carpinteria

livingcommunityartshoppingdining

Everything I list turns to SOLD!

CARPINTERIA

t Every Thursday

SHIRLEY KIMBERLIN

Stoked for surf and skate

Years

t Summer & Winter

It’s all about you, Carpinteria!

Serving the Community and Local Businesses Since 1994

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CONTRIBUTORS 1

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Christian Beamish writer

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Glenn Dubock

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FAVORITE TRAIL TO HIKE, RUN, OR BIKE?

WHAT CAUSE, LOCAL OR GLOBAL, ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

WHITE CHRISTMAS OR BEACH CHRISTMAS?

Persian rice (family friend); rice pudding the next day (mom)

The little watershed trail by our place

Plastic pollution, ocean acidification, inequality

La playa

Instagram: @ ChristianBeamish

Mind surfing

Denver omelet

Rincon Bikeway

Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center

Peace, love, and sandy feet

Dubock.com

Soup pot simmering, games with the kiddos

Restaurant kitchens

Ray Miller off PCH

Gun violence and wrongful convictions break my heart

Beach Christmas convert

peter@ 2trumpets .com

Holly

No one taught me to cook

Montanon Ridge Loop Trail on Santa Cruz Island

Have to keep the wild in the wilderness, which means saving habitat

Beach

chuck graham photo.com

Drinking coffee and watching the rain

Brisket

Ventura River Preserve

Climate change

White

lumartzine.com

Big cups of Lucky Llama’s chai Latte

Stuffed grape leaves

Sulphur Mtn. Road

Clean water for all

White Christmas

Instagram @ WonderTribe

FAVORITE WAY TO PASS TIME ON A STORMY WINTER DAY?

WHAT FOOD DID YOU LEARN TO COOK FROM A FAMILY MEMBER?

Beachbreak on SE wind, snuggle at home con familia.

writer/photographer

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Peter Dugré writer

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Chuck Graham writer/photographer

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Debra Herrick

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CONTACT

writer/photographer

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Michael Kwiencinski photographer

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WHAT CAUSE, LOCAL OR GLOBAL, ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

WHITE CHRISTMAS OR BEACH CHRISTMAS?

Hands down Franklin Trail

Poverty

White Christmas, then a trip to a warm beach

shannonjayne. com

Rice balls and miso soup (Japanese soul food)

Carpinteria Seal sanctuary

Mars 2020 mission

White Christmas in a hot spring

Instagram: @dicekphoto

Cooking, reading, old movie watching

Spare ribs and sauerkraut

Along the Bluffs

Animal (including humans) rights

Beach

amymarie orozco.com

Megan Waldrep

Write, read, snack, repeat

My greatgrandmother’s gumbo

Carpinteria Bluffs Trail!

Veterans and military families

B-E-A-C-H

megan waldrep.com

Leslie Westbrook

Walk, write poetry, popcorn, wine, jazz…

Fried chicken, Grandma Flossie.

Sicilian dishes, Grandma Jeanne

Beach boardwalk to the Bluffs

Immigration, hands down

The white sands of Carpinteria

LeslieA Westbrook @gmail.com

George Yatchisin

Hanging out at The Apiary Ciderworks and Meadery

Kolache (a Slovak baked good)

The path from Butterfly Beach past Ty Warner’s

Fighting climate change

Beach (I’m a reformed East Coast-er)

Georgeeats.com, @gyatchisin

WHAT FOOD DID YOU LEARN TO COOK FROM A FAMILY MEMBER?

FAVORITE TRAIL TO HIKE, RUN, OR BIKE?

A good audiobook and a creative project

French toast

Daisuke Nakamura

Chill at library with my son

Amy Orozco

Shannon Miller

photographer

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writer

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writer

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writer

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FAVORITE WAY TO PASS TIME ON A STORMY WINTER DAY?

photographer

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writer

CONTACT

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FINAL FRAME

S H E L L S H OCK E D The last couple years have been huge for the tiny bean clam, a species that maxes out at about 1.5 inches long and can undergo enormous population fluctuations from year to year.

These shallow-water filter feeders are typically buried in the sand, but low tides and other environmental conditions can result in their exposure—sometimes thousands heaped upon one another. Leave them alone, and they’ll likely survive by “clamming up” to avoid desiccation. ♦ PHO T O BY K EN PFE I F F E R

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CREATED BY

RESPONSIBLE FARMERS IN 2018

FRAN COLLIN PHOTOGRAPHY

CARPGROWERS.ORG/WORK-FORCE

FARMERS • NEIGHBORS • STEWARDS WINTER2020 113

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Inspiration grown locally

A family owned nurser y in Carpinteria since 1978 Phalaenopsis Tillandsias Succulents Foliage Plants Custom Arrangements Pots, Baskets, Tins

VISIT THE RETAIL SHOWROOM

M o n d a y- Fr i d a y 9 - 4 : 3 0 • S a t u r d a y 1 0 - 4 3 5 0 4 V i a Re a l • C a r p i n t e r i a • C A 9 3 0 1 3 w e s t e r l a y o r c h i d s. c o m • 8 0 5 . 6 8 4 . 5 4 1 1

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