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CARPINTERIA
107 years young
Postseason bound
e arpinteria Warriors ase all team finis e t e regular season on a si game
t e league stan ings an clinc ing a spot in t e pla o s e Warriors
pla ers suc as senior a e artine picture o as een
open Vol. 32, No. 28 March 26 - April 1, 2026 coastalview.com
Mary Ota celebrated her 107th birthday with a smile on Saturday, March 21, during a celebratory ride through Carpinteria with Cycling Without Age pilot Susie Clothier. Ota, born in Los Angeles in 1919 and a Carpinteria resident since around 1950, is pictured with her daughter, Marsha, as they pause in front of The Alcazar Theatre marquee in her honor before the group continued to the Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center for a birthday party. Asked her secret to a long life, Ota said simply, “Be kind to everyone.” She said she enjoyed the ride — and is ready to go again. Ota appears to be arpinteria s ol est centenarian
atter s o ea more on page o t is ee s print
ROSANA SWING
Biz Buzz: Linden Studio Home
MARK HUNT
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COMPILED BY CVN STAFF | COURTESY PHOTOS
Vote-by-mail ballots arriving this week for June 2 primary
Vote-by-mail ballots for the June 2, 2026, statewide direct primary election are being mailed to registered voters across Santa Barbara County during the first week of May, according to the county lections ce.
Voters should have received their County Voter Information Guide by the end of pril. The guide includes polling place locations and hours, a sample ballot and instructions for completing and returning ballots.
Completed ballots may be returned by mail using the postage-paid envelope pro-
JUST LISTED!
& 02152826
vided. Ballots must be postmarked by lection Day, une 2, and the return envelope must be signed. The .S. ostal Service recommends mailing ballots early to ensure timely delivery.
cial ballot drop boxes are available 24 hours a day beginning May 4 through p.m. on lection Day. There are 1 drop box locations countywide, with a list included in mailed ballot packets and available online.
Voters are also encouraged to verify their registration information, including mailing and residential addresses, through the California Secretary of State or the Santa Barbara County lections ce. or more information, visit sbcvote.com or call 00- 22- 6 3.
AgeWell to host meet and greet with public works director
The city of Carpinteria’s geWell program will be hosting a public works picnic, where attendees can speak with Carpinteria’s ublic Works Director ohn Ilasin, on Thursday, May 21, 1 p.m., at the Carpinteria eterans Memorial Building.
The event will include a picnic, and afterwards attendees may explore city e uipment, meet staff and take part in ra e prizes and giveaways.
The Carpinteria eterans Memorial Building is located at 41 Walnut ve.
Second Annual Fix-it Fair: May 30
The city of Carpinteria will host its Second nnual ix-it air, where volunteer fixers offer their services, on Saturday, May 30, at the Carpinteria eterans Memorial Building, noon to 4 p.m. olunteers will offer help fixing a variety of items, including clothing, dull knives, electronics, jewelry, surfboards, bicycles, appliances and more. The purpose of the event is to promote conservation and keep items out of local landfills. Those interested in attending may bring up to two items for repair. ttendees may also bring stained clothing for artistic repair.
Those interested in learning more about the event and its confirmed fixers may visit cityofcarp.co fixitfair. ny interested volunteers with skills related to clothing textiles, jewelry repair and knife sharpening may email sustainability carpinteriaca.gov.
The Carpinteria eterans Memorial Building is located at 41 Walnut ve.
Trash pickup pushed back one day for Memorial Day holiday
Residential trash, recycling and organic waste will be picked up one day later in Carpinteria, due to employees . . arrison Sons taking the day off for Memorial Day on Monday, May 2 .
Trash will be collected on riday, May 2 . Regular Thursday trash collection will resume the following week. er . . arrison Sons, all food waste should be placed in closed paper or plastic bags and the bags should be tossed in the organics waste cart.
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SAVE YOUR SEAT FOR TOMORROW, GIVE TODAY!
We’re proud to launch our 2026 Capital Campaign to raise $98,000, honoring The Alcazar’s 98th anniversary as Carpinteria’s home for the performing arts. Every gift plays a vital role in our mission to educate, inspire, and connect our community through the performing arts. Your support moves the story forward, ensuring The Alcazar remains vibrant, welcoming, and ready for the next generation of artists, audiences, and ideas.
You made 2025 unforgettable; let’s work together to make 2026 even more remarkable!
Your donation will help us:
Preserve the Alcazar Theatre
Support diverse programming
Cover operational expenses
Enhance facilities
Expand educational & community outreach
Continue partnerships with our local schools and nonprofit service groups What your support made possible: Carp Film Festival
Weekly Improv Classes
Playwright Festival
Summer Drama Camp
Monthly Comedy Nights
Live Theatre Performances
Sold-Out Concerts
Movie/Film Screenings
Advanced lighting, sound, and projection technology
PERFORMING ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT EVENT CENTER
Carmen Anthony DiPoalo 02/19/1939 — 05/01/2026
Carmen Anthony DiPoalo was born Feb. 19, 1939, in Jamestown, New York, to Anthony and Virginia Ceci DiPoalo. He grew up with his sisters, Sandra and Debra, and in 1949 the family moved to Monrovia, California, where his lifelong love of sports, family and community took root.
At Monrovia High School, Carmen distinguished himself as a gifted athlete in football and baseball. A three-year letterman and 1957 MVP, he was named Wildcat of the ear, acific eague M , All-CIF and the league’s leading ground gainer. Even then, what set him apart was not just his talent, but his drive, his heart and the way he lifted up those around him.
He continued his athletic career at Citrus College, earning Most Outstanding Athlete honors before transferring on a full scholarship to University of California, os ngeles. s a Bruin, he was a two-year letterman and a member of the 1 62 Rose Bowl team an achievement he carried with pride throughout his life.
While at C , Carmen married his high school sweetheart, Harriet. Together they raised three children oe, Dana and Tony and built a growing family that included 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Though he was proud to be called “Coach,” his favorite title was “Grandpa.” His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he treasured time spent with them especially on camping and houseboat trips to ake Powell, where his legendary cannonball never failed to make a splash.
Carmen began his coaching career at Clovis High School (1964-1966), followed by Hueneme High School (1967-1969). In 1 0, he joined Santa Barbara City College, where he would leave an enduring legacy over 32 years. A brilliant defensive coordinator, his 1979 team ranked No. 1 in the state. Over the years he coached All-State, All-Americans and players who went on to play in Division 1 programs.
More than wins or accolades, Car-
men was a mentor, teacher and steady presence in the lives of countless young men. In his final two years, he became head coach, taking over a struggling program and restoring its pride “The a s re Back ” In 2002, his team went undefeated at home and secured its first winning season in five years, capped by a 23 22 victory over Bakersfield the final game of his remarkable 40-year coaching career. During his tenure, SBCC earned eight conference championships and two state playoff appearances, including the prestigious otato Bowl in 1 1.
Carmen’s contributions were recognized with induction into the Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table Hall of Fame (2007), the California State Community College Football Coaches Hall of Fame 2016 and the SBCC all of ame 2022 . While these honors meant a great deal, the relationships he built meant even more.
Carmen retired in 2003 and now had the time to pursue his other passions. He went on endless adventures with his favorite teammate, Pat Moorhouse. They were blessed to enjoy their retirement years enjoying the RV lifestyle. They travelled to many states and Canada. They experienced the beauty of our country, especially the National Parks. Their travels took them hunting, fishing, hiking Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon, river rafting on the Colorado River, riding a train through the Canadian Rockies and many other trips. It was an added blessing to have their dogs, first reta and then Sami to share in their RV trips. Carmen’s love for labs was immeasurable. Greta and Sami brought joy to this stage of his life.
Carmen is survived by his children, Joe (Charlotte ), Dana (David) and Tony; grandsons, Jake, Shane, Mitchell, Mike, Jay, Giovanni, Domenic, Declan, Nick and Dante; granddaughters, Annabella and Brianna; great-grandchildren, Riley, Atlas, Kinsley, Kyah, Nico and Giovanna; and sister, Sandra es and family.
Carmen is also survived by his longtime companion and best friend, Pat Moorhouse, and her family who shared so many wonderful memories with him.
Carmen’s life was defined by strength, loyalty, humor and an unwavering love for his family, his players and the game he cherished. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the memories that will be carried forward for generations.
He will be deeply missed, forever remembered and always loved.
Celebration of ife will be held on Sunday, May 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Carpinteria ions ark. Casual attire is encouraged; in honor of Carmen, guests are invited to wear SBCC or C apparel.
Previously published obituaries may be read online at coastalview.com
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St. Jude
Oh Holy St. Jude, apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in Miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful special patron in time of need, to you do I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg you to whom God has given such great powers, to come to my assistance. Help me in my present urgent petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. Pray for us all who invoke your aid. Amen Say three Our Fathers, three Hail Marys, three Glorias. This Novena must be said for 9 consecutive days. This Novena has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised to St. Jude.
More Good Days Together: County marks Mental Health Month
BY SUZANNE GRIMMESEY, MFT
Editor’s Note: Part 1 of 4. This Viewpoint was submitted by HopeNet of Carpinteria, a local g ass oots s ici e e ention non ofit for Mental Health May.
Each May, communities across the nation observe Mental ealth Month a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma and remind people that mental health is an essential part of overall well-being. This year’s national theme, More Good Days Together, highlights something both simple and powerful: When people feel supported, connected and understood, more good days become possible for everyone.
In Santa Barbara County and throughout the Carpinteria community, that message is coming to life through the annual ight p reen campaign, which invites residents, businesses, organizations and public agencies to illuminate buildings, homes and landmarks in green throughout the month of May. Green is the official color of mental health awareness and serves as a visible reminder that hope, healing and help are always within reach.
This year, more than 150 locations throughout Santa Barbara County are participating in the campaign, re ecting broad community support for mental wellness. Among the many new participating locations are Cottage Health, Dignity ealth Marian Regional Medical Center, CenCal Health and Paseo Nuevo. Returning participants include the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Santa Barbara Airport and many other community landmarks and organizations.
The growing participation re ects an important truth: Mental health touches every family, every workplace, every school and every neighborhood. Whether someone is managing stress, grieving a loss, navigating anxiety or depression, or supporting a loved one through a di cult time, mental health matters.
Awareness, however, goes beyond green lights and public campaigns. It is built through everyday actions check-
When people feel supported, connected and understood, more good days become possible for everyone.
ing in on a friend, listening without judgment, taking time for self-care, seeking support when needed and reminding others that asking for help is a sign of strength.
Mental ealth Month also offers opportunities for the community to come together through local events. Activities planned throughout May include a Mental Health Fair hosted by Cottage Health on May 2, a proclamation by the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors recognizing Mental Health Month on May , Santa Barbara City College’s “Combating the Stigma of Mental Health” event on May 6, The Sanctuary Centers of Santa Barbara’s Mental ealth Awareness Month Art Show on May 8, and the Mental Wellness Center Peace of Mind Walk on May 31.
These events offer opportunities to learn, connect and support one another because mental wellness grows strongest in community.
If you see a building glowing green this month, let it serve as a reminder: No one is alone, recovery is possible and brighter days can lie ahead.
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available 24/7 through the Santa Barbara County Behavioral Wellness ccess ine at 6 -164 .
Suzanne Grimmesey is the public information o ce an chief of st ateg an comm nit engagement for the Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness.
Myer Louis “Lou” Browdy
19, 1940 — December 10, 2025
HELP volunteers Anne Goulart, Lorien Rennie, Mary Lemke
Ad courtesy of Risdon’s Service
reser e arpinteria s General Plan
ane Benefield’s March 26 letter CVN ol. 32, o. 32, “ onor Carpinteria’s eneral lan,” said something Carpinteria needed to hear: The eneral lan is not a suggestion. It is a commitment.
s a fellow lanning Commissioner alongside ane, and a member of the eneral lan pdate Committee, I want to thank her for stating it plainly and reinforce the point.
My family has been in this valley for four generations. They farmed this land stone fruit, lemons, avocados here, apricots in the jai alley. I spent summers picking Santa Rosa plums for market on my grandparents’ farm in Carpinteria. My family helped preserve the bluffs through conservation efforts that continue through my children today. I graduated from Carpinteria igh School, and three of my five children attended C SD schools.
or me, the eneral lan is not abstract. It is a written promise that the town my family worked in, the bluffs we helped protect and the schools my children walked to, will remain recognizable to the next generation.
The plan is not static. It evolves with the community, which is why we are undertaking a eneral lan pdate now a public, deliberate process to revisit our commitments in the open. I have seen firsthand the level of scrutiny, time and debate behind every word. That is how a community aligns growth with its values: through the plan, not around it.
eneral lan only works if it is treated as binding. That means applying existing standards before creating exceptions, evaluating proposals against adopted policy not preferred outcomes and being direct with residents when a project does not fit.
ccountability is not complicated. It is a choice made in every hearing, report and vote.
Carpinteria has built a plan worth honoring. It should be honored.
Alexandra “Xy” VanAntwerp Carpinteria
Thankful for late friend and neighbor
ast week, I picked up and read the oastal iew. s I turned the pages I was so happy to see the wonderful article about nn Mullins. My husband and I live two houses away from nn’s house. The article about nn’s life journey was so interesting and very positive. I loved it. It also helped me recall all the wonderful times and experiences I had with nn, especially pertaining to our gardens, owers, orchids and gatherings at breakfast club. nn was a special person. She was smart, funny, caring and everyone loved her. oing forward, I will miss her, but never forget her. s an afterthought, I bet she is up in eaven working in her garden and helping others plant their gardens. Rest in peace dear friend.
Diana Thorn Carpinteria
LETTERS
—Lorraine McIntire
Build tiny homes for the homeless
s most of us are aware, there are a small number of people living in Carpinteria who are homeless. Some of these men and women, because of age, or mental or physical disabilities are unable to secure housing for themselves. These individuals need our help Many other cities are addressing this problem with “tiny homes.” These are simple, affordable structures, some only feet by 12 feet, that can be built uickly, or purchased prefabricated and placed on a suitable plot of land, and funded by the city and private donations when needed. Constructing even a dozen of these structures in Carpinteria would make a huge impact for good in the lives of some of our most vulnerable citizens, giving them shelter and safety until more permanent housing is made available for them.
Darrell Johnston Carpinteria
Mindful thoughts about cannabis in Carpinteria
I have written about greed. I have written about cannabis, and one letter on the subject of outdoor live music that one never saw the light of day; too honest; honesty can hurt . I have my nose up and the aps fully out, still put on your seatbelt, here we go. I have seen in print that cannabis odor is a threat to our precious babies and must be eradicated. If you live between ighway 101 and oothill Road, the exhaust fumes, dust with heavy metals and continuous drone of tires on pavement are a larger threat to your baby than any three weeks of cannabis odor fragrance .
It’s totally obvious Carpinteria doesn’t want cannabis in the city no head shop, no dispensary . et it out of here. The biggest threat to you and your precious child is coming straight at you on a two-way street with an open container between its legs. The freeway brings money. The train brings money. eople who smoke pot are looser. eople who don’t are really smart. I’ll drink to that. eep your right and wrong to yourself. I have just barely scratched the surface of this all with the truth. I could continue, but then this letter wouldn’t be printed. I will finish with please be mindful, I try to be.
Jonathan Chapman Carpinteria
Coastal View News welcomes your le ers Le ers must include your name, address and phone number. Le ers are subject to editing. Le ers over 300 words will be edited in length. Submit online at coastalview.com
City budget outlook and revenue considerations
I am grateful for eter Dugre’s article in last week’s edition CVN ol. 32, o. 33, “Writing on the Wall: City must increase revenue to balance budget” , which thoughtfully outlined several key factors the city manager is currently evaluating regarding the city’s budget. s a C who has advised numerous business clients, I know how susceptible these projections are to unexpected events, including price volatility.
The city also wrestles with aging infrastructure re uiring replacement or repair, increased government compliance re uirements, rising costs for inputs and services, including those related to public safety, and greater community demand for resources. ll these factors put pressure on the city’s finances.
To address these demands, the city must increase its top line; simply put, it needs to generate more revenue. ike how businesses raise prices to keep up with costs, the city raises revenue through taxes, leases, fees and assessments. The community asks for better roads, crimefree neighborhoods, accessible recreation, senior services and various community support programs, yet understandably, consumer behavior is to want it cheap. I understand. obody wants to pay more for the same stuff. But the community needs to understand the facts, or else the misinformation will hinder accomplishment. We can support our future through the competent stewardship of the city.
If voters had approved the proposed landscaping and berm districts rop 21 this past March, the city’s budget would be in a much healthier position now. It was truly the smartest and most e uitable solution, and it would have cost each household only a few hundred dollars annually. Besides increasing sales tax by another uarter percentage, the proposed Surfliner Inn represents the next best opportunity to generate the necessary revenue. ot only would the Sur iner Inn provide a valuable source of income for the city, but it would also enhance economic vitality, which in turn would stimulate further growth in tax revenues.
Lorraine McIntire Carpinteria
County workers should be present
bsence is not leadership.
I was stunned watching Santa Barbara County Clerk-Recorder- ssessor oe olland’s budget presentation before the Board of Supervisors. e seemed unprepared and was not present in the room. When pressed, he acknowledged that he has not been in his o ce in 1 months.
The Clerk-Recorder- ssessor’s ffice oversees vital records, property assessments and elections. We deserve a department head who is present and accountable.
ually concerning is that Mr. olland is collecting his full public pension while also receiving a full government salary. While this “double-dipping” may be legal, it raises ethical uestions about stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
The voters choose the Clerk-Recorder- ssessor. We deserve more from someone entrusted with essential public responsibilities. That person is olland’s Chief Deputy, Melinda reene. isit melindagreene.org and you’ll read all about her 12 years of experience as chief deputy, accumulating the credentials to be an expert: She’s a C , a C C R , advanced appraiser and a housing finance professional.
Who do we want for the next four years in this job Someone who literally phones it in r an energetic experienced professional who shows up every day, keeps expanding her ualifications and is committed to providing the highest level of service
Lee Heller Santa Barbara
Carpinteria
City launches beach cleanup stations at Ash Avenue Youth-inspired
BY CVN STAFF
The city of Carpinteria, in partnership with Carpinteria Beautiful and Relic Coastal Collaborative, will launch a new Beach Cleanup Station Program at Ash Avenue this week, aiming to make it easier for residents and visitors to help keep local beaches clean.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, May 7, at 3:30 p.m., with city staff, community partners and residents expected to attend.
The program was first proposed by a 14-year-old Carpinteria resident, Elias Sprague, reflecting what city officials described as growing interest among local youth and families in environmental stewardship.
According to a press release from the
program encourages
hands-on coastal stewardship
city, the cleanup stations are equipped with reusable baskets that beachgoers can use to collect litter during their visit. Participants are encouraged to grab a basket on their way to the beach, pick up debris while enjoying the shoreline, empty the contents into a trash bin and return the basket before leaving.
City o cials said the program is designed to reduce marine debris while promoting everyday stewardship of Carpinteria’s coastline.
“ ur coastline re ects the choices we make every day as a community, at home, in our businesses and on our beaches,” said Tatianna Suriel, environmental program specialist with the city. “This program makes it easy for anyone to take part in caring for our coastline.”
Suriel added that incorporating cleanup into routine beach visits can help raise awareness and encourage more sustainable habits.
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Carpinteria resident Elias Sprague, left, proposed the idea of a beach cleanup station to the Carpinteria City Council earlier this year. With prague is t e cit s u lic Wor s anager an erle
the 5-mile loop
*Trishaws available upon request and subject to availability. To reserve a trishaw, please email sustainability@carpinteriaca.gov. Ride will be capped at first 40 participants.
The initiative was inspired in part by similar efforts along the California coast. The city will also collect data through a voluntary community survey to better understand waste patterns and refine the program over time.
Additional cleanup stations could be added in the future based on community feedback and program success, o cials said.
More information about the program and the survey is available on the city of Carpinteria’s Coastal Conservation Projects webpage, at carpinteriaca.gov/ coastal-conservation-projects.
KARLSSON
Dear Skyler Shaft, Seeing you turn 2 years old being happy, healthy and surrounded by love is a privilege that I am proud to have. With love from your uncle Raúl Gálvez
After 26 years with the United States Marines Corps, Major Christopher J. Requejo is set to retire on May 8, 2026 at Millers Landing Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, Havelock, North Carolina. A local 1997 Carpinteria High School graduate, Chris has served as a Communications Officer in the Marines. The family sends their Congratulations, “Wishing you endless happiness, new experiences, and plenty of time to do what makes your heart happy.” We Thank you for your service. “Retirement isn’t the end of the road; it’s the beginning of the best journey yet!”
Car Fobs Watches
an a s’ e e ts n w t n e e ahea s ea n e ent
BY TRACY MARCYNZSYN
Lifelong writer and longtime Summerland resident Fran Davis shared some insights about writing, life and her debut novel “Red Summer” with Coastal View News ahead of her speaking engagement, “Stories, Supper & a Red Summer” at the annual Friends of the Carpinteria Library meeting on Wednesday, May 20.
“Red Summer,” highlights timeless themes that still ring true today, Davis said, showing how history tends to repeat itself. Published in June 2025 and set in the 1950s Cold War era, “Red Summer” represents more than 10 years of research and writing by Davis and re ects the deep suffering, cultural divisions, paranoia and fear that were prevalent then and persist in present times.
CVN: Share a little with our readers about your connection to Carpinteria.
Fran Davis: Living in Summerland for 50 years, Carpinteria felt like a hometown paper. I wrote for the Coastal View News as one of their first writers about all things Summerland … everything from events, oil on our beaches, expanding Lookout Park — there’s a plaque in the park with my name on it because I was so active in the project. My dog is a Carpinteria street dog that I rescued almost 12 years ago, a Chiweenie named Finny.
You’re a journalist, a poet and now a book author with accolades as a Lamar York Prize winner and a Pushcart o i ee he did ou first eco e interested in writing?
In high school, I kept a journal and I edited the yearbook. When I went to college, I majored in journalism and English. I always wanted to work in publishing; I spent a year in Chicago, working for SRA (Science Research Associates) and spent about five years in ew ork at Teachers College Press, then got my master’s degree in psychology. I was working on a lot of educational materials, tests and publishing books for education.
When my husband and I, who were born and raised here in California, moved back, to Summerland, I started working for Coastal View; I credit Coastal View for a lot of my practice in writing — I got to write about a lot of things and really learned the craft. It was a good exercise in learning for me.
I’ve written and published travel stories, a number of things for Carpinteria Magazine, essays, short stories and poems. I’ve also written for The Santa Barbara News-Press as a local news stringer and
“Procrastination was the hardest part! I’ve written short things. I learned a lot: It taught me that a book doesn’t stay still, the characters don’t stay still; you do a lot of rewriting and rewriting; and change it so many times.”
––Fran Davis
the Carpinteria Herald and wrote the “Summerland Spirit” column, about how the town was founded by spiritualists and Spiritualist Hall — it’s a really interesting town.
I’ll send a column to the Coastal View, “Fly By,” every so often, when I’m inspired.
What inspired you to write “Red Summer?”
I was inspired because of my small-town childhood. I was born (in Merced) and raised in the Central Valley, in the heat and around agriculture, and those people are imprinted in my brain. Life in a small town; the people there and their inter-relationships, and how they live and love and hate together. Bits and pieces are taken from people I’ve known and that whole milieu.
What was challenging about writing this book?
Procrastination was the hardest part! I’ve written short things. I learned a lot: It taught me that a book doesn’t stay still, the characters don’t stay still; you do a lot of rewriting and rewriting; and change it so many times. ou learn a lot in the process. I was in writers’ groups too and got lots of feedback; people who write should have writers’ groups, you can’t tell if your work is good or not; people in a writers’ group are focused on writing.
What did you enjoy most about writing “Red Summer?”
The exploration. I did a lot of research. I had to learn about shipbuilding, auto mechanics, history of strikes in California, goldmining … I also consulted friends who knew a lot about mechanics and auto care. I loved creating the characters and seeing how their lives changed; I still love those characters!
What do you hope readers will take away from this book?
That’s the most important thing, that they take away how the similarities that exist between that time and now is eerie.
There’s a deep divisiveness, which is exactly what is happening now, and it was the same then. The divisive politics, people turning against each other, fear and paranoia then, and now. I wanted to point out that we went through those experiences before and we got through it. There is still fear in the air.
Do you have any advice for how people can best handle, and perhaps change, this fear mentality?
I keep telling people to talk to each other and to be kind as much as you can; kindness goes out in waves, even opening a door or saying good morning can brighten the day a little bit. It all helps a little bit.
o ou recall ei g perso all affected by McCarthyism?
I remember my parents talking about it a lot. I remember McCarthy’s voice on the radio, a whining voice, that was kind of awful. Kids were hiding under their desks for fear of an atomic attack; there were movies and T shows, like “I Was a Communist for the FBI.”
What are your thoughts about using AI as a writing tool?
I’m really resisting that, even in my emails. I want the misspellings and the made-up words to be there. I think we read a lot about people spending so much time on their phones — that time is taking away from real-life time, interacting with other people. ou’re not gonna grow psychologically and emotionally from spending time on your phone … I have a hard time with the social media stuff; I use what’s useful, sending emails and messaging with friends, but I restrict it to certain times.
Do you have any favorite writers or mentors?
John Steinbeck is my favorite writer; he’s a guy who wrote about real people and real places. I admire his work so much. There’s a lot of Steinbeck in my book. My favorite book by him is “East of Eden.”
Are you working on other writing projects?
I’m now working a lot on poetry and short stories. ou have to keep the words spinning through or you’re going to lose it … I’m too old [to write another book], I’m 80 years old — I’m still going, but not going that far. “Red Summer” took about 10 years to write; a lot because of my procrastination. I really need a deadline.
Do you ever experience writer’s block, and if so, how do you deal with it? My block was my procrastination. If I came to a place where I was going to struggle, I just stopped. It percolates through your mind; solutions come to you … they’re in the head; you only can get it when you do it; be involved in it.
Where are your favorite places to write? I usually write at home, at my computer or longhand sometimes, but not very often. If I’m out somewhere or on vacation, I take a journal and write mostly poems.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
Boring things … I love taking hikes, walking, walking my dog and visiting interesting places. I love water; we went to Lake Cachuma and went out on the lake, it was so green and peaceful, it’s like Heaven. I recently visited the new Chumash Museum — it’s gorgeous with a garden and a creek in Santa nez.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I have two kids, a daughter and son; my son designed the cover of my book. He’s a graphic artist, and I told him I want it to be red; he picked a chapter from the book he thought was a turning point and it’s fabulous. My daughter is a really smart, wonderful girl; she’s an environmental activist and a smart and helpful person. I have a smart family that helps me a lot. I have two grandchildren too, boys.
Meet Fran Davis and learn more about “Red Summer” at the Friends of the Carpinteria Library’s annual meeting on Wednesday, May 20, at 5:30 p.m. at Carpinteria Community Church, located at 1111 Vallecito Road.
Author Fran Davis will speak at the annual Friends of the Carpinteria Library meeting on Wednesday, May 20.
Halos& Pitchforks
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A reader sends a halo to Ryan Moore for bringing dirt back to Carpinteria.
A reader sends a pitchfork to those who decided to allow marijuana to be grown near houses, schools, churches, the Boys & Girls Club and Girls Inc. “The chemical scrubber wafts through the windows of my house and neighboring houses many nights and robs us of fresh air and needed sleep inside our homes. This is not good for our health. ook at a map to see how close they are to houses. ery bad decision making!”
A reader sends a halo to everyone who supported the Playa Del Sur 4-H this year. he members are looking forward to another successful year.
A reader sends a halo to Valerie, the new volunteer at the Friends of the ibrary Bookstore, for cleaning and reorganizing the self-help section.
A reader sends a pitchfork to Carpinteria shopkeepers who leave their store lights on into the night. “There is no reason to have your lights on if there is no one in the store.”
A reader sends a halo to the kind local who found the reader’s phone and actually refused any monetary reward. “Blessings and halos to all those who have a golden heart like hers. Thanks to the beautiful Carpinteria, and let’s help her stay beautiful.”
A reader sends a halo to Burlene for making the Carpinteria Lumberyard Nursery area a joy to visit. “Her outgoing personality (Southern style), friendly conversation and plant knowledge make it a pleasure to visit and shop.”
A reader sends a halo to the generous person for paying for the reader’s gas when she forgot her ATM card at the gas station. “I’m sorry I chose the most expensive oil, I’d love to reimburse you, and thank you. I’m deeply moved by your generosity.”
A reader sends a halo to Loan, the pharmacist at CVS. “She is excellent and always handles our uestions and concerns with care and e ciency. She is a great addition to the CVS team.”
A reader sends a halo to Sean and Dayna for being wonderful neighbors and helping the reader through another frazzled mom situation.
A reader sends a halo to the 93013 Fund, Uncle Chen Restaurant and Marybeth Carty for the surprise delivery of a delicious dinner complete with a fortune cookie, candy bar and painted rock. “Wonderful kindness and quite a thrill!”
A reader sends a halo to the anonymous person who left a $100 donation in the HE of Carpinteria office mail slot this past week. hank you for your kindness.
A reader sends a halo to the staff of Jack’s Bistro for staying open during Covid-19. “Always a smile no matter how busy. A great way to start the day.”
A reader sends a halo to all courageous police officers, sheriff’s deputies, fire department personnel, and servicepeople in all branches of our military forces who deal with the yucky stuff and protect us every single day. “Thank you.”
A reader sends a halo to the Daykas for always being there to help with anything and never complaining. “Many thanks to the best neighbors ever. We love you all dearly.”
A reader sends a halo to Mayor Wade Nomura for the city’s beautiful ower wreath at the Carpinteria Cemetery for the Memorial Day program.
A reader sends a halo to Kandie. “I couldn’t imagine a better mother for our children.Happy Mother’s Day!”
A reader sends a halo to Tami and John at Robitaille’s for their constant smiles and over the top customer service. he wedding favors were loved by all and brought a bit of Carpinteria to the Seattle wedding!”
A reader sends a halo to all the Carpinteria Seal Watch volunteers who protect and safeguard the seals and pups no matter the weather.“Thank you for keeping them safe and unbothered.”
A reader sends a halo to those who acknowledge people with disabilities. “When you encounter a person in a wheelchair or walking with a walker, please smile and say hello to that person.”
A reader sends a halo to Lance Lawhon at the Carpinteria Sanitation District for helping Kim’s Market.
A reader sends a halo to the Carpinteria Beautiful lady picking up trash in a neighborhood near the beach. “Thank you! We need all the help we can get keeping trash picked up in the neighborhoods on the beach-side of the tracks.”
A reader sends a halo to Nancy and John. “They gave this visually impaired girl a ride home from the Alcazar after Saturday’s concert.”
A reader sends a halo to Kassandra Quintero at he Spot. hen the roof top ag was twisted and lodged in the rain gutter, Quintero jumped into action and climbed up to the roof and untangled it so that it could wave freely. Way to show patriotism!”
A reader sends a halo to the Carpinteria Community Church especially Carol Nichols for providing an outstanding meal for the less fortunate in town. As always, thanks again to Fon Ha and the Brass Bird for their continual support.
A reader sends a halo to Carpinterians who put out boxes in front of their homes full of surplus oranges, avocados, etc. from their trees. “Thank you for sharing your abundance.”
A reader sends a halo to Emma and Justin. “It was a wonderful wedding, great food, spectacular location and great people! It was moving and wonderful.”
A reader sends a halo to the women restoring and painting the mural on Via Real “It is beautiful!”
A reader sends a halo to Nikki at HEA Culinary. I went to my first class this week end with my sister, who has been to four so far. I had the best time! Someone get this girl a show, she should be on the Food Network already.
A reader sends a halo to all the beach community residents. “Thank you for parking in front of your home with your permit.”
A reader sends a halo to Desiree, the new masseuse at he ym Ne t oor. She could have coasted through it, but she worked really hard to relieve my back pain. I never experienced such a great massage.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to the elected official who stopped by to paint long enough for the photo op, then left.
A reader sends a halo to whoever left a sign telling people to pick up their dog-waste bags and stop leaving them on Casitas Pass Road.
A reader sends a pitchfork to whoever has been leaving bags of dog waste on the ground along Casitas Pass Road. “Yes, it’s frustrating that the trash cans are gone, but is that really your best way of handling
who hit the reader’s pickup in front of the reader’s house and didn’t stop. “Shame on you, and I hope
A reader sends a pitchfork to the ing huge rides that take up the whole road is irresponsible. here are countless bike lanes that were put in with our tax dollars to avoid this problem.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to braiding hair while swimmers are in the pool. “Not professional!”
A reader sends a pitchfork to of the newer businesses on the Carpinteria Bluffs. earn to share the bike walking path with locals here will be four to five of you walking together and not a single one will scoot over just a tad to let a local pass through?”
A reader sends a pitchfork to the . “All the mushrooms growing there indicate too much water. Nice weed farm.”
A reader sends a halo to Diana a caregiver at Carpinteria Senior Lodge for nearly three years.
A reader sends a halo to Tom Sweeney for going out on Elm Avenue by the beach to clean up plastic bottles, bags, dirty gloves and masks.
A reader sends a pitchfork to the pilot of a white crop duster helicopter who ew extremely low directly over the Seal Sanctuary about 10 a.m. on April 30 scaring the entire colony of seals on the beach to rush into the water. “This was an intentional, low y-over and should result in immediate and severe punishment of both the pilot and the helicopter company, including but not limited to immediate grounding of both.”
A reader sends a halo to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the for working diligently to save the Rincon Beach bear. “It’s a terrible shame to lose one of these magnificent creatures however, I wouldn’t want it to suffer to a miserable death.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to for parking his vehicle in the spots right out front of his establishment. “Shouldn’t he leave those parking spots available for his paying customers?”
A reader sends a pitchfork to the City of Carpinteria for letting the bluffs turn into an ever increasing dirt parking lot. hat is not what the bluffs were purchased for. Post No Parking signs immediately!”
What’s new at the harbor seal rookery?
A reader sends a halo to Bill and Rosana Swing for spending their Saturday taking photos for unior arriors Football. e appreciate all you do for our families, play ers and program. You rock!”
A reader sends a pitchfork to those stealing armfuls of grape leaves off the grape arbors at the community garden. “Really ”
A reader sends a pitchfork to the new parking zones. “All the “no parking/two hour” signs just made people park in my neighborhood. Seventh and the neighboring streets are a packed parking lot.”
This report covers April 27 — May 3, 2026
A reader sends a pitchfork to the sheriff’s deputy using his radar gun the other morning in front of city hall. “Why don’t you go by one of the schools and catch all the speeders there in morning, and keep our children safe while walking to school.”
A reader sends a pitchfork to those who lied on their FAFSA and took scholarships away from kids who need it.
A reader sends a halo to DJ Hecktic for coming out early Saturday morning to support the Junior Warriors. “It made the kids so happy to hear you say their names—you’re
A reader sends a pitchfork to the homeowner near an elementary school who stuck a sharp kitchen steak knife, blade partially exposed, upright in their front lawn beside a eep Dogs ff awn sign. “While frustration with irresponsible dog owners is understandable, embedding a sharp knife in a residential, high-tra c area only a few feet from the sidewalk is unsafe and reckless. Children, pedestrians and pets pass this spot daily. There are many reasonable ways to protect one’s lawn — creating a
, director of Boys irls Club, for removing the to ic Euphorbia fire sticks from
ailard enue
Two men were contacted in a parked truck and both were extremely intoxicated with open containers of alcohol observed in the vehicle. One man was not being the most cooperative, but once he was convinced to exit the vehicle, a pat down search of his person was conducted. Deputies located a collapsible baton in the man’s front waistband. He was cited and both were released to a sober friend.
he found a small baggie containing a white powdery substance underneath the driver’s seat of his recently purchased vehicle. The man stated he purchased the vehicle three weeks ago but didn’t find the small baggie until he’d removed the driver’s seat to fi the reclining mecha nism. The incident was documented, and the baggie was booked into Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office property for destruction.
Meet Marley, the perfect gentleman
Saturday, May 23
Friday, May 22
CVN’s Seal Watch weekly report, written by Seal Watch volunteers, covers activities at the Harbor Seal Rookery. Several Seal Watch volunteers are winter visitors and will soon depart for other states, so please consider joining Seal Watch for the remainder of the pupping season through May. The group can be reached at carpsealwatch@gmail.com or at (805) 364-3194. The rookery is located immediately east of Casitas ier, between Carpinteria Bluffs ature reserve and Carpinteria State Beach. There is no vehicle access from Dump Road.
NATURAL HISTORY NOTES
The ancestors of whales left land long before the earliest pinipeds found their way to an amphibian lifestyle at the shore’s edge. There is speculation that whales evolved in an environment where ocean life was much less plentiful, explaining an evolution toward an ability to travel long distances seeking food. Fossils of early pinipeds and the adaptations of most current seals, sea lions and walruses show little trend towards fully aquatic life. They have evolved to seek the more abundant food close to shore and survive in part by being able to ee to land.
Meet Marley. Marley has been at the shelter so long he’s practically part of the staff a well-loved dog still waiting for the one thing he hasn’t found yet: his person.
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VISITORS
a.m. heft blo Calle rena
Deputies responded after a woman reported her residence was burglarized the prior night. The woman stated a cartoon of almond milk and tools were taken from her garage. She told the reporting deputy that the tools belonged to her daughter’s boyfriend. The deputy attempted to contact the man via telephone multiple times with no response. The woman stated her garage door was unlocked during the night and is in the process of getting a new lock. She did not have any suspect information at the time. The incident was documented, and patrol will follow-up for further details of the stolen items.
Deputies responded to a motel on Via Real for a report of a domestic violence incident. Upon arrival, a deputy contacted a man and woman in the parking lot. After contacting both subjects, there were visible injuries on both parties. Due to con icting statements regarding their mutual altercation and obvious injuries, both parties were arrested for corporal injury on a spouse.
a.m. it and un Cameo and Casitas ass roads
This handsome cattle dog mix, with a touch of gray on his muzzle, brings together experience, intelligence and heart. Marley is the kind of dog who greets you politely, offers a paw without being asked and makes fast friends with just about everyone he meets. He comes with an impressive list of skills, including sit, shake, speak, down, stay and come — and he knows them well. Multiple foster families have reported the same thing: Marley is easygoing, well-mannered, housetrained and perfectly content to relax at home when left alone.
Volunteers counted 1,158. Interested visitors included people from Czechoslovakia, China, Brazil, Israel, the nited ingdom, Spain, apan, Mexico, the etherlands, Canada, South orea, Texas, ew ampshire, Wisconsin, Maryland, irginia, Michigan, Massachusetts, Illinois, Arizona, Ohio, Missouri, Connecticut, Colorado, evada, Minnesota, lorida, ew Mexico, tah, South Carolina, ew ork, Maine, Montana, eorgia, evada, the .S. irgin Islands and Washington D.C.
DISTURBANCES
beach walker ignored volunteers and the beach closure sign, ushing all the seals. ideo and photos were immediately provided to the sheriff’s department, who sent a patrol to Rincon to intercept him. In addition to the trespass, he was seen throwing a can on the beach as he walked. ighteen seals were ushed during a permitted rescue of a distressed pup. low- ying helicopter caused most to ee to the ocean.
Windows 10 Phobia?
Marley enjoys people, including new faces, and can do well with other dogs, though he can be selective about his canine companions. ike many cattle dogs, he thrives with both mental and physical activity — but his energy has mellowed into a balanced mix of enthusiasm and calm. He’s just as happy joining you on a long hike as he is settling in beside you at the end of the day.
For those who know the breed, Marley represents something special: a loyal, intuitive companion with plenty of life left to share.
p.m. ound rugs
blo a aranda a A man was contacted after reporting
Deputies responded to a report a of a black sedan crashing into a parked water truck. While en route, it was also reported the male subject driving the sedan ed the scene on foot. Upon arrival, deputies observed the sedan abandoned in the middle Cameo Road with major damage to the front right passenger wheel
Marley is available for adoption at Santa Barbara County Animal Services, 5473 Overpass Road in Goleta. For more information, email sbccassouthfostercoordinator@gmail.com or text (805) 699-0975.
MORE INFORMATION
Please consider honoring the Marine Mammal Protection Act by not walking the sanctuary beach all year. Do not bring dogs, bicycles or loud voices to view the seals. arbor seals, when disturbed, may ee and become separated from their pups. Volunteers ask that dogs always remain outside the rope area.
Carpinteria Seal Watch volunteers monitor our local seal rookery. More volunteers are always needed. Contact Seal Watch at carpsealwatch@gmail.com or call i ou li e to elp
ARTCETERA
announced several upcoming events, including
a screening of
Rock performance, “Mamma Mia!” screening at Alcazar Theatre
The Alcazar Theatre has announced several upcoming events, including a rock performance from an eight-piece band on May 9, and a screening of “Mamma Mia!” on May 15.
Lauren Monroe and her eight-piece band will perform “The Magnetic Stage” at The Alcazar Theatre on Saturday, May 9, at 8 p.m. The band includes Rick Allen, Joshua Ray ooch, Dylan Rose, on Button, itten uroi, Brian ri n and Carey rank. The group will perform original music from Monroe’s upcoming album, “Magnetic.”
Tickets for the event are $75 for standard seating, $100 for preferred seating and $150 for VIP seating.
On May 15, at 7 p.m., the theatre will screen “Mamma Mia!” in honor of Mother’s Day, and advertised by the theatre as a mother-daughter movie night. The film follows a mother and her daughter, a young bride-to-be who secretly invites three men from her mother’s past to her wedding to discover which one of them is her father.
Tickets are $10 for general admission and $7 for seniors and students. Tickets can be purchased online at thealcazar.org or in person at 4 16 Carpinteria ve.
nrollment opens or lca ar s ummer Drama Camp
nrollment has opened for The lcazar Theatre’s Summer Drama Camp, and local students in fourth through 12th grade may enroll through June 17.
Classes will run Monday through riday from 3 to :30 p.m., culminating with a public performance on riday, uly 10, at 6:30 p.m. The sessions run from une 2uly 3 and uly 6-10.
Led by Åsa Olsson, students will gain hands-on experience in acting, character techniques and improv, as well as learn about setting, lighting and costume design. High schoolers not enrolled in the camp program can earn community service hours serving as co-coaches. A limited number of scholarships are available. or sign-ups, tickets and more information, visit thealcazar.org.
out oast a itat estoration enters film in Illumination Film Festival
The film “Trout Camp ish assage Restoration in Wheeler orge, C ,” by cho Magic roductions has been accepted to the Illuminate ilm estival, and is eligible for the “ neness of umanity Micro-Short Contest” eople’s Choice ward. Those interested in voting must cast their ballots by May 7.
The film details the Wheeler orge ish assage roject and the philosophy that goes into restoration work. The South Coast abitat Restoration SC R which is head uartered on Carpinteria venue removed barriers to fish passage in Wheeler orge in 202 , a process documented by filmmakers Scott irsch and Brendan Willing ames. Removing four barriers from orth ork Matilija and Bear creeks and adding two span bridges opened up access to 13 miles of upstream habitat for steelhead trout and other fish.
The restoration project serves as an example of “putting things back where they belong,” said Mauricio omez, executive director of SC R, in a press release.
Those interested in voting for the film may visit illuminatefilmfestival.com and vote on “Trout Camp.”
CALENDAR
Thursday, May 7
AgeWell Senior Program: Pickleball Free Play Girls Inc. of Carpinteria, 5315 Foothill Road. 8-10 a.m. agewell@carpin teriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
English Language Conversation Group/Grupo de Conversación en In glés Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 8:30-10 a.m. carpinteri alibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Bellas Artes Free Arts & Crafts Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, 865 Linden Ave. 10 a.m. noon. carpinteriaartscen ter.org, (805) 684-7789
One-on-One Tech Help Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10 a.m. 12:30 p.m. carpinterialibrary. org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Free Lunch Program Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 11 a.m. noon. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: Chair Yoga Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 12:15-1 p.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Dungeons & Dragons Club Carpinte ria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 3:30-5:15 p.m. For ages 12-17. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Friday, May 8
AgeWell Senior Program: Tai Chi Together Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 10-11 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Friday Fun Day Carpinteria Communi ty Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10-11:30 a.m. For ages to 11. carpinterialibrary. org, (805) 684-4314
Free Arts & Crafts Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, 865 Linden Ave. 10 a.m.-noon. carpinteriaartscenter.org, (805) 684-7789
AgeWell Senior Program: Free Lunch Program Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 12:15-1 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Teen Advisory Board Biweekly Meet
ing Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 3:10-4:30 p.m. carpinte rialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Mindful Meditation Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 3:154:30 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Peace Corner Vigil Carpinteria and Linden avenues, 5-6 p.m. carpindivisi ble@gmail.com
Live Music: Alive and Kicking Island Brewing Company, 5049 Sixth St. 6-9 p.m. islandbrewingcompany.com, (805) 745-8272
Saturday, May 9
California Women for Agriculture: Flower and Plant Market Front lawn of Carpinteria Middle School, 5351 Carpin teria Ave. a.m. 1 p.m.
AgeWell Senior Program: Saturday Excursion Carpinteria Family Bike Ride El Carro Park, 5300 El Carro Lane, 11 a.m. 1 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca. gov, (805) 881-1279
Palate to Palette Art Reception Lyn da Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, 865 Linden Ave. 4 p.m. carpinteriaartscenter. org, (805) 684-7789
Lauren Monroe-A live Multi-Sensory Concert Experience The Alcazar The atre, 4916 Carpinteria Ave. 7-9 p.m. $30 advance/$35 door, thealcazar.org, (805) 684-6380
Tango & Salsa Dance Party Thario’s Kitchen, 3807 Santa Claus Lane. p.m. 11 p.m, $10 donation. tharioskitchen california.com, (805) 684-2209.
Monday, May 11
Preschool Story Time Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10-10:30 a.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Line Danc ing Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 10:30-11:30 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: Free Lunch Program Veterans Memorial
The Alcazar Theatre has
Lauren Monroe on May 9, and
“Mamma Mia!” on May 15.
2025 DRAMA CAMP FILE PHOTO
Tel: (805) 684-4428
Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 12:15-1 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Monday Mahjong All levels of play. 1 p.m. (805) 729-1310
AgeWell Senior Program: Mind Games Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 1:302:30 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: The Con versation Circle Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 3-4 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Teen Gaming Club Carpinteria Com munity Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 3:30-5 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
City Council Meeting City Hall, 5775 Carpinteria Ave. 5:30 p.m. carpinteriaca. gov, (805) 684-5405
Live Music: Jared Nels Island Brewing Company, 5049 Sixth St. 6-9 p.m. island brewingcompany.com (805) 745-8272
Introducción a las computadoras–
Clase Bilingüe Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 6-8:15 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Alcazar Theatre Ensemble: Open Auditions Alcazar Theatre, 4916 Carpin teria Ave. 7-9 p.m. (805) 901-3554
Tuesday, May 12
AgeWell Senior Program: Walking Club Meet at Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. a.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 8811279
Carpinteria Writers’ Group Carpinte ria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 10 a.m. noon. carpinterialibrary. org, (805) 684-4314
AgeWell Senior Program: Mind Body Balance Exercise Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 11 a.m.-noon, agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: Free Lunch Program Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 12:15-1 p.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
AgeWell Senior Program: Bridge Group Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 1-4 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Carpinteria Songwriters Circle Carpinteria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 4-5:30 p.m. carpinteri alibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
CUSD School Board Meeting City Hall, 5775 Carpinteria Ave., 5:30 p.m. cusd.net, (805) 684-4511
Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 9-10 a.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Science for Teens Carpinteria Com munity Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 11 a.m. 12:30 p.m. For ages 11- to 13-years-old. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
•Sat.-Sun. 6:30am-3pm Bagelnet.com for
AgeWell Senior Program: Creative Art Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 10-11:30 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
FOOD…
Al-Anon Meeting Faith Lutheran Church, 1335 Vallecito Place. 6:30 p.m.
FRI: DISFRUTA 3-8 PM SAT: SHRIMP VS. CHEF, 12 PM
Wednesday, May 13
AgeWell Senior Program: Pickleball for Beginners Girls Inc. of Carpinteria, 5315 Foothill Road. 8-10 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
MUSIC…
AgeWell Senior Program: Carpin teria Men’s Coffee Club Veterans Memorial Building Meeting Room, 941 Walnut Ave. 8:30-9:30 a.m. agewell@ carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 881-1279
Babies Are The Best Carpinteria
FRI: GORDON CROWL UKULELE, 6-9 PM SAT: SKA DADDYZ, 6-9 PM SUN: SANTA BARBABRA TROMBONE SOCIETY, 5-6, HOLIDAY SING ALONG, 6-8 PM
AgeWell Senior Program: Free Lunch Program Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave. 12:15-1 p.m. agewell@carpinteriaca.gov, (805) 8811279
Carpinteria Knitters Group Carpinte ria Community Library, 5141 Carpinteria Ave. 1-3 p.m. carpinterialibrary.org, (805) 684-4314
Carpinteria Valley Water District Board Meeting City Hall, 5775 Carpin teria Ave. 5:30 p.m. cvwd.net, (805) 684-2816
Taste of the Town
Mon.-Fri. 6:30am-2pm •Sat.-Sun. 6:30am-3pm
Mon.-Fri. 6:30am-2pm •Sat.-Sun. 6:30am-3pm Bagelnet.com for Restaurant menu
Mon.-Fri. 6:30am-2pm •Sat.-Sun. 6:30am-3pm Bagelnet.com for
WELLNESS WARRIOR
LEAH HARDING
I have been deliberately avoiding writing about GLP-1s (Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, to name a few). Everyone has an opinion, and it felt like a too-polarizing topic to touch. But they are everywhere now.
If a client had mentioned they were thinking about starting a GLP-1 when it first came on the scene, I would have rolled my eyes internally. Not because I thought they were bad people for considering it, but because I had seen enough uick fixes come and go to be skeptical. Another tool for the yo-yo dieter’s bag of tricks, I thought. Just a more expensive one.
Then, about two and a half years ago, my doctor called me with a different kind of offer. She wanted to start prescribing GLP-1s to her patients, but only if they were paired with nutrition coaching. She asked if I was interested.
I said yes, and it changed how I think about these drugs entirely. Since then, I have worked with about 50 GLP-1 clients, alongside two physicians I now collaborate with, one of them being Jaclyn ucharski of Carpinteria Med Spa. (Yes, this is a plug for the wonderful Dr. Kucharski!)
What I have seen is this: The clients who do the work alongside the medication — the nutrition, the movement, the mindset shift — are the ones who get lasting results. The drug gives them space to learn and change. It quiets the constant noise of hunger and food fixation that can make it feel impossible to adjust your eating habits. But it does not do the work for them.
Before I go further, I want to be clear: I am not a medical professional. Everything in this article should be a conversation between you and your doctor.
What is a GLP-1?
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. It is a hormone your body naturally produces after eating. It signals your pancreas to release insulin, suppresses glucagon to help regulate blood sugar and reduces gastric emptying. That last part is key. Food literally stays in your stomach longer, creating a sustained feeling of physical fullness. These medications also act on the hunger and appetite centers in the brain, which is why nearly all users will describe feeling apathetic about food, and most stop thinking about it altogether.
GLP-1s: My take
ADOBESTOCK
GLP-1 medications act on the hunger and appetite centers in the brain, which is why nearly all users will describe feeling apathetic about food, and most stop thinking about it altogether.
These medications were originally developed for type 2 diabetes, which is why several of them have both a diabetes brand name and a separate weight loss brand name for the same drug at a different dose.
More options are coming. Several new medications are in late-stage trials, including dual- and triple-hormone agonists that target pathways beyond GLP-1 alone. The landscape is going to keep changing.
What to know about GLP-1s
Most doctors do a reasonable job covering the common side effects: nausea, constipation, diarrhea and vomiting. These tend to hit hardest when you first start or when your dose goes up, and for most people, they ease up over time.
What does not always get mentioned: You will likely plateau. Just like any other caloric deficit, your body adapts. rom what I’ve seen, about half of my clients will hit a plateau around weeks eight to 10 on a GLP-1, a little later than the typical diet plateau in weeks five to six. This is usually when a doctor’s first instinct is to increase the dose.
In my experience, that is often premature. I recommend tightening up your diet first, to see if that changes anything, and then waiting until you have plateaued for three to four weeks with little to no change on the scale. When I say tightening up the diet, I mean getting negotiable foods like added sugar, fried foods and ultra-processed foods down to under 10% of total daily calories. I have had clients who never needed to titrate up at all because they did this instead.
You will lose muscle, not just fat. This is one of the most under-discussed realities of not only GLP-1 use but of weight loss. However, since the weight loss is generally faster with GLP-1 use, the muscle mass can also come off faster. Some research suggests that up to half of the weight lost on these medications may come from muscle mass and other lean tissue, rather than fat. Muscle loss slows metabolism,
reduces strength and makes it harder to keep weight off long-term.
This is why I tell every single GLP-1 client: Lift weights, at minimum, once a week. Ideally, two to three times. It does not have to be intense. It just has to happen. The combination of higher protein intake, which the new dietary guidelines now support, and resistance training is your best defense.
There is also a right way to come off these medications so as not to regain the weight after stopping. ow to wean off properly is something I work through with my clients individually, because it depends on how long they have been on the medication, what habits they have built and where their nutrition stands. If you are thinking about stopping, that process deserves real attention. ong-term side effects are still being studied, so your prescribing doctor really needs to be part of that conversation based on your personal health history. What we do know is that bone density is worth keeping an eye on over time, especially for women over 40. Another reason resistance training is not up for debate.
My honest take
I either needed to learn to work with GLP-1s or they were going to make my job irrelevant. That was my first motivation for saying yes to my doctor’s offer. But what I found was that these medications do not replace what a coach does. If
The clients who do the work alongside the medication — the nutrition, the movement, the mindset shift — are the ones who get lasting results. The drug gives them space to learn and change.
anything, they make it more important. Clients still need to learn how to eat better. They still need to move their bodies. They still need to build habits that will hold when the medication is no longer in the picture. The drug just gets the hunger out of the way long enough to make that possible.
When done right, these are a genuinely useful tool. I have seen it change people’s lives. But “done right” is the key phrase, and that takes more than a prescription. One thing worth saying plainly: If you know someone who dropped a significant amount of weight quickly and credited it to “eating better,” there is a decent chance a GLP-1 was involved. That is not a judgment. But it creates an unrealistic picture for those watching. Just be honest about what you are doing. It helps everyone. If you are currently on a GLP-1, thinking about starting one, wanting to try things on your own first or trying to figure out how to come off a -1 without undoing everything you worked for, reach out. This is exactly what I do. Send me an email, and let’s schedule a discovery call to talk through where you are and what you actually need.
Leah Harding is a nutrition coach and personal trainer dedicated to helping clients understand how food fuels their lives and supports their wellness goals. With a focus on data-driven, personalized nutrition strategies, Leah empowers her clients to make informed choices that enhance their health and well-being. She previously owned CrossFit Carpinteria/Foxwing Fitness until 2018. For inquiries or suggestions for future wellness articles, contact Leah at leah@foxwingfitness.com.
Back in the water: Azalea Swim Club makes a splashy return home this summer
Judy Kay Cooper’s swim program runsJune 8 through July 30
CARPINTERIA BIZ BUZZ
THE BIZZY BEE
For generations of Carpinteria families, learning to swim has meant time in the pool with Judy Kay Cooper — where confidence grows one splash at a time and even the smallest victories make waves.
This summer, the beloved instructor is diving back into her roots.
Azalea Swim Club is returning to its original home on Azalea Drive in Carpinteria, bringing Cooper full circle to the pool where it all began nearly four decades ago.
“I began Azalea Swim Club in the summer of 1989,” Cooper said. “A dear friend heard of my love for the water and asked me to teach her sons. Word began to travel, and soon we had a group of families ready to jump in.”
That first summer made a ripple that turned into a wave. What began as a few small sessions quickly grew into a sought-after program, drawing families from Carpinteria, Montecito and Santa Barbara — all eager to get their kids comfortable in the water under Cooper’s watchful eye.
Her love of swimming, she said, runs deep.
“I grew up in acific alisades and always lived where there was a pool,” Cooper said. “My love of all things swim started when I was 5 years old.”
She later swam competitively in high school and spent years working as a lifeguard, experiences that helped shape both her skill and her steady, safety-first approach.
A graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a degree in early childhood and elementary education, Cooper blends that background with a warm, patient teaching style that meets kids right where they are — whether they’re ready to dive in or just getting their toes wet.
Lessons start small: a chin in the water, blowing bubbles, learning to control breath. From there, progress comes stroke by stroke — always at a child’s pace.
“None of this is forced,” Cooper said. “We celebrate even the tiniest success.”
Those small steps build toward big moments. At the end of each session, older swimmers show off their skills in a “parade of strokes,” while younger children demonstrate their newfound confidence. very swimmer leaves with an otter pop and a diploma — and often a big boost of pride.
“It’s all done with joy and positivity and so much fun,” she said.
Cooper kept the program afloat through life’s challenges. After the death of her husband, William G. Cooper, in 2008, the swim club became an anchor during a di cult time.
Lessons start small: a chin in the water, blowing bubbles, learning to control breath. From there, progress comes stroke by stroke — always at a child’s pace.
“The children at swim club were my shining stars,” she said. “They lifted me out of my deep grief and gave me so much happiness.”
In 2014, she sold her home on Azalea Drive and took her lessons on the road, launching “Azalea Swim Club Mobile” and traveling from Oxnard to Goleta — and even Ojai — to teach in backyard pools up and down the coast.
But earlier this year, as gas prices climbed and the miles added up, Cooper found herself drifting back to days gone by.
“I dreamed of teaching swimming at my Azalea Drive home,” she said.
She reached out to the current owners of her former home, the Daly family, to ask if she could rent the pool a few afternoons a week. Their answer helped bring the story back to shore.
“They agreed graciously,” Cooper said. “And Azalea Swim Club was reborn.”
Now, she’s ready to welcome a new generation of swimmers — along with plenty of familiar last names.
“The children and their enthusiasm are what has kept my passion going all these years,” she said. “ ven the ones who are scared on day one can be won over to a love of swimming with patience and a sense of humor.”
Her program will serve children ages 1 to 11, with options for private, semi-private, small group and parent-and-me classes. And while the lessons are playful, the mission is serious.
“So many children die by drowning each year — it is astounding,” Cooper
expansions, promotions or celebrations — send your Carpinteria Biz Buzz ideas to news@coastalview.com
said. “If my small swim school could help even one child, that is a huge success.”
She also has a clear message for parents: Stay present.
“ verything stops when our children are in the water. Absolutely everything,” she said. “Nothing is more important than their safety.”
After nearly 40 years, Cooper still finds joy in every splash, every smile and every breakthrough — and she’s ready to make waves once again in the place that started it all.
“I’m so thrilled to be back on Azalea Drive teaching your kids and grandkids to swim and to love the water as I do,” she said.
Azalea Swim Club runs June 8 through July 30, with classes held Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. essons are offered as private ($135), semi-private for two children ($70 per child) and small groups of three ($45 per child).
Parents interested in learning more may contact Cooper at jkcswimmer24@ gmail.com or (805) 729-2056.
KARLSSON
Judy Kay Cooper, longtime Carpinteria swim instructor and founder of Azalea Swim Club,
summer elping a ne generation o local c il ren gain confi ence in
What do you love about your mother?
horse.
Chloe Crocker: My mom is getting me a pink horse.
Ford Lewis: My mom got me a bunk bed.
Just ahead of Mother’s Day on May 10, Coastal View photographer Robin Karlsson asked students from Kinderkirk Preschool and the United Boys
what
Maisie Carlisle: I love when my mom reads to me.
Julian Mutal: My mom gives me chocolate.
Griffin McMeekin: MY Mom is getting me a new bed.
winona alexander: My mom gives me sprinkle donuts.
Sophia Schwartz: She always goes shopping to get me milk.
Asher Adams: I like going on a walk with my mom.
Hayes Hansen: Me and my mom like eating at Rusty’s Pizza.
Girls Clubs of Santa County - Carpinteria Unit,
they love about their mother.
I like to go to Disneyland and Sky Zone.
Daheana Cartosa: I love when My mom gives me watermelon, my favorite fruit.
Santiago Campuzano: I love when Mom makes me my favorite food.
David Garcia: My mom checks to see how many points I have at my DoJo and gives me rewards.
Zephyr Gebhart: I love it when my mom makes me her special German breakfast.
Noe Vega Bonitaz: My mom plays with me.
Nelly Soriano: my mom is funny, patient and supportive.
Gabriel DeAnda: My mom and I take fun car rides.
Damien Garcia Perez: Me and mom go to fun places.
mother.
Third graders brave stormy skies for annual Bluffs Day
PHOTOS BY INGRID BOSTROM
More than 150 Carpinteria third graders took to the outdoors April 24, boarding buses to the Carpinteria Bluffs ature reserve for the annual atie Roberts Bluffs Day field trip, where hands-on learning continued despite rain and wind.
Students, joined by teachers and volunteers, spent the day exploring the coastal preserve through a series of educational activities designed to connect them with nature and local history. ven in stormy conditions, organizers said the experience remained lively and engaging.
articipants planted milkweed to support declining monarch butter y populations, learned about Chumash culture while crafting shell rattles and imagined prehistoric wildlife such as dire wolves and saber-toothed tigers once roaming the land. ive demonstrations with native raptors drew particular interest, sparking uestions and curiosity among the students.
rt activities also took on a seasonal twist, with students painting outdoors in the rain giving new meaning to the term watercolor.
Bluffs Day is held each year in honor of atie Roberts and her passion for outdoor education. The event aims to introduce young students to the natural beauty of the Carpinteria Bluffs reserve while encouraging stewardship and environmental awareness.
rganizers credited the efforts of volunteers, educators and community partners for helping make the day possible and memorable for participating students.
TO OUR READERS...
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ristie o a resses a group o t ir gra ers rom t e arpinteria nifie c ool istrict
ic i ar ner o eet a alconr ol s an merican estrel
Volunteers beautify Tomol Interpretive Play Area
PHOTOS BY ROBIN KARLSSON
The city of Carpinteria’s Community Work Day at the Tomol Interpretive Play Area drew dozens of volunteers to assist in cleaning and beautifying the park on Saturday, May 2.
The event was hosted by the city, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Carpinteria Morning and the Friends of the Tomol Interpretive Play Area, according to Carpinteria’s Program Manager and Public Information Officer uli a Briones. olunteers planted new plants, picked up trash, cleared weeds, scrubbed the ground and painted the park.
From left, Rotary Club of Carpinteria Morning President Steve Gerties, Les Esposito and Carie Smith scrub the bricks.
Members of Carpinterias Rotary clubs and city employees work together to clean up the Tomol Interpretive Play Area on Saturday, May 2.
Rotary Club of Carpinteria Morning member Martha Gibbs
The city of Carpinteria’s Program Manager and Public Information Officer Juliza Briones, right, cleans up alongside her husband Victor Briones.
Carpinteria’s Parks & Recreation Director Jeanette Gant
Dorrie McArthur and Eric Anderson shovel dirt while cleaning up the Tomol Interpretive Play Area.
rom analino lementar ere part o e oo Worms team ic place secon at t e elementar anta ar
Canalino students were among the winners in Battle of the Books
Students from Canalino Elementary School earned second place, alongside students from other local districts, at the 25th annual Battle of the Books event series on April 30.
resented by the Santa Barbara County ducation ce, the event tested students’ literary chops in a friendly competition about books’ plots, characters and themes.
More than 240 elementary and high schoolers in Santa Barbara County participated in the competition after reading books from a designated book list and teaming up with fellow students from various schools to test their knowledge in a trivia-style battle.
Canalino Elementary School students were on The Book Worms team, along with students representing Harding niversity artnership School, Roosevelt Elementary School, Adams Elementary School, Vieja Valley Elementary School
and Santa Barbara Charter School.
The first-place team, In It 2 Win It, included students from Ballard Elementary, Montecito lementary, eabody Charter School, Cold Spring School and Santa Barbara Community Academy.
“As we celebrate 25 years of Battle of the Books, it’s inspiring to see how this event continues to bring students together through a shared love of reading, fostering connection, curiosity and teamwork,” said Santa Barbara County Superintendent of Schools Susan Salcido. “Congratulations to all of the students who brought their knowledge and excitement to this year’s competition.”
A Spanish-language version of the Battle of the Books, Batalla de los Libros, for Dual anguage Immersion students in fourth through seventh grade will take place on May 14. ext year’s Battle of the Books reading lists will be released this month at sbceo.org/battle.
mission to support education, student opportunity and the arts in Carpinteria,” said the club’s resident David owdrell.
COURTESY PHOTO
THE BOOK NOOK
The Carpinteria Community Library recommends...
“They Called Us Enemy”
by George Takei, Justin Eisinger and Steven R. Scott
Published in 2019, “They Called Us Enemy” is an autobiographical graphic novel and New York Times bestseller that reconstructs the childhood of George Takei, shaped by his imprisonment in American concentration camps during World War II. The book has been selected for the One Book, One Coast/Carp Reads initiative.
Far from being only a personal testimony, the work sheds light on one of the darkest chapters in United States history: the legalization of discrimination and the forced internment of American citizens of Japanese descent in remote and inhospitable camps. Among them was Takei himself, who endured this experience as a young child alongside his family.
Told through the perspective of a child, the narrative gains particular emotional power, conveying both the fear and confusion of those who lived through these events and the remarkable resilience they showed in the face of injustice and discrimination.
At the same time, the story avoids becoming exclusively bleak. A central figure is Takei’s father, whose steadfast commitment to democratic values introduces an important sense of hope. That legacy carries into the author’s adult life, re ected in his longstanding advocacy for civil rights and his support for marginalized communities.
In this way, “They Called Us Enemy” moves beyond historical memory and becomes a reflection on citizenship, justice and identity. The book reminds readers that defending democratic values requires active and conscious participation, and that equality is not an abstract ideal, but a principle that must be upheld, especially during times of crisis.
As part of the One Book, One Coast/ Carp Reads program this May, the Carpinteria Community Library is organizing activities centered on the themes of the book and offering free access to the work in both digital and print formats.
— Eric Castro, City Librarian
Friends of the Carpinteria Community Library recommend...
“Great Circle” by Maggie Shipstead Maggie Shipstead’s fascinating novel is two stories in one and was a Booker Prize finalist in 2021. Marian Graves is a protagonist with an unbelievably traumatic childhood. She grows up in the early 1900s in Missoula, Montana, with her twin brother and their dissolute uncle who is their guardian. When she is 14, she encounters inspiration and fierce ambition when a pair of barnstorming pilots come to town. Upon seeing their biplanes doing spectacular circles in the air, Marian lives to y. The early days of aviation make this an exciting and informative historical novel. Shipstead’s research is thorough and exciting. Marian manages to y and has many adventures in Montana, Canada and Alaska. When World War II comes, she makes her way to England where women are allowed to y because they are needed to help in the war effort. Eventually, in 1950, she makes a Great Circle by navigating around the Earth crossing over the North South Poles.
Hadley Baxter, the star of the second storyline, is a wild child in contemporary Hollywood, wildly famous and wildly wealthy. She’s been a bad girl and is fired from a super popular series of romance movies. She has outraged her fans and driven the paparazzi to extremes. Determined to redeem herself and her career, she lands the role of Marian Graves in a much-touted fi lm written by one of raves’ forbears.
Marian and adley’s stories emerge and evolve throughout the novel, interwoven and intriguing. We learn about each of them as Hadley undertakes the role. Each of them struggles for self-determination, fulfillment and happiness. They are awed and fabulous women dealing with familial tragedy and the roadblocks that society erects especially for women. Through the 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s, we see aviation grow through Marian’s extraordinary story and then Hadley shows us a woman navigating our own time now. Some things are very different; some are not. This is a huge book, 651 pages, and each page is well worth the read! And through it all is the magic of ying.
— Susan Anderson, volunteer with Friends of the Carpinteria Community Library
ON THE ROAD
spring breaks at Pinnacles
The Graham, Kent, Talt-Lundin and Mutal families of Carpinteria recently brought a copy of Coastal View News along with them for an adventure to Pinnacles National Park during Spring Break 2026.
GOING ON THE ROAD?
Snap a photo with your Coastal View News in hand and email it to news@coastalview.com. Tell us about your trip!
THROWBACK
s surfing course is no eas ri e
BY VINCE BURNS
Envy University of California, Santa Barbara, students for many reasons but one in particular is their access to one of the university’s most popular courses: Geography 20, aka the Geography of Surfing. Talk about a perfect fit: ot only does UCSB have a nationally ranked Geography Department, but the campus also hosts its very own point break creatively, “Campus oint” . our Rincon correspondent sat down with class mastermind Professor Stuart Sweeney to learn about the course and how its concepts are re ected at Rincon oint itself.
Dedicated surfers generally have a deep knowledge of oceanography, meteorology and all the rest that goes into the science of waves and wave riding. Where do Rincon waves come from They know the answer: orth acific winter storms send west and northwest swells toward us but to reach the Point they must pass a narrow window between the Channel Islands and oint Conception. With luck, winds and tides cooperate and perfection ensues at the ueen of the Coast. ot a bad explanation, but graduates of Geography 20 will be able to dazzle friends and family with their advanced understanding of waves. They might put it this way: The sun heats the atmosphere, air shifts to compensate for resulting temperature differences creating vortices in air motion, this air transfers its energy to the ocean and waves are generated, eventually reaching Rincon oint where they “feel” the bottom, break and are surfed. Wind, tide, bathymetry, swell direction and quality, and much more all go into making a wave. skilled geographer like Sweeney can describe the entire complex system that begins with that first packet of energy from the sun in the north acific and ends with a wave arriving at Rincon oint.
Course fundamentals
Per Professor Sweeney, the class “uses a geographic perspective to study facets of surfing. eography provides a perfect set of tools to study surfing, ranging from the propagation of swells to the diffusion of culture. The goal of the course is to introduce students to geographic ap -
ro essor tuart eene at an s eac proaches to understanding human cultural patterns, physical processes and their dynamic interactions.” In other words, lure students in with gorgeous beaches and waves (Sweeney plays videos from ouTube masters like athan lorence as each class begins) and then introduce all the tools of physical and human geography to understand surfing. Brilliant idea enesis for the course first taught in 2004) goes back to a faculty retreat in which the department pondered ways to promote geography to UCSB’s undergrads. More than 20 years later, the experiment is a wild success with the annual course attracting numbers only surpassed by Soc 1 2 Sociology of uman Sexuality — no idea why this would be popular among the 1 - to 22-year-old set .
If you’re a little too old (like this reporter) to be an undergraduate, Stuart’s course may set you to dreaming about becoming a “lifelong learner” to sample seemingly fun courses like eography 20. Be forewarned; this class is no gimmie. There’s plenty of oceanography, wave science, climatology and old-fashioned math to take on board. The syllabus is meaty and has more than a few e uations. Core texts are William innegan’s bestseller “Barbarian Days” and the textbook “Surf Science: n Introduction to Waves for Surfing.” The latter, let me promise you, does not go down as easily as the former.
One class assignment is to plan a surf
trip using all the tools learned in class. But this is no chance to riff on innegan’s “Barbarian Days” with your own dream surf safari. By the end of class, you’ll be using the nitty gritty of swell propagation and refraction models to construct a swell window for your surf spot to “locate the most likely area where storms will be located during your visit and estimate approximate wind speeds.” ach year’s course has a different theme: ast fall’s course focused partly on the surf industry, including guest speakers like master shaper Tom Wegener and Santa Barbara Mollusk Surf Shop owner Beau Di iore.
The surf geography of Rincon Point
What can a geographic analysis tell us about Rincon or starters, the oint’s summer doldrums are explained by seasonality connected to the “swell shadow” caused by the Channel Islands blocking predominant summer southern swells. n the human side, surfers in the Rincon
lineup jockeying for position are engaging in “spatial behavior,” a key tenet of the science of geography. Surfing’s localism and occasional territoriality is another well-known social scientific phenomenon understood by geographers. It’s even pertinent at places like Silver Stand, C-Street and Rincon. s Sweeney points out to students: “Even along a 50-mile span of coastline, you may find different surfing subcultures.” t each spot, individual surfers’ decisions about specific waves are impacted by their local knowledge of how individual waves behave. s at other breaks, Sweeney explains, the boards you see at Rincon are an expression of its local waves. Renny ater inherently knew this when developing his famous Spoon for Rincon in 1 64.
Professor of surfing
ow does one become a professor of surfing Sweeney’s curriculum vitae points the way: Born in 1 66, the goofy footer grew up in SoCal (Palos Verdes), surfed Waikiki as a child, participated in junior lifeguards, is an experienced sailor and played water polo in college — very much a waterman’s life. s a young lifeguard at Manhattan Beach, Sweeney was precociously making connections between surfing and the human and physical world in which it exists. s Sweeney puts his progression from lifeguard to geographer, “I really couldn’t have gone another way.”
So, yes, maybe CSB was named o. 1 “top party school” not long ago but don’t let that give you the wrong impression: Geography 20 is as rigorous as any elective course. That it’s taught by an avid surfer makes it all the better.
Vince Burns is a University of California, Santa Barbara Department of Geography alum who wishes he could have taken Geog 20 as an undergraduate. He and Stephen Bates have written “the” history of Rincon Point, available locally and online at amazon.com/ dp/1467108707.
COURTESY OF STUART SWEENEY
tract rom eograp course materials s o ing t e s ell
ampus oint
COURTESY OF STUART SWEENEY
Warriors baseball prepares for playoffs
Carpinteria won six straight games to end the regular season
BY RYAN P. CRUZ
Carpinteria’s baseball team is rolling into the postseason, with the Warriors scratching out several close wins in the final stretch of the regular season to close out the year on a six-game hot streak.
The Warriors had already won three straight heading into a two-game series with league rival Channel Islands on April 29 and May 1, with Carpinteria needing a successful result to lock in third place in the league standings.
In the first game of the series at Channel Islands’ home field, the Raiders took an early advantage with a run in the first inning and four more runs in the third inning.
The Warriors responded to the 5-0 deficit by settling down and clawing back over the last four innings. Carpinteria scored single runs in the fourth and fifth inning and added another pair of runs in the sixth inning to bring the game within one.
In the seventh, the Warriors tied the game at 5-5 when senior Noah Morente reached on a bunt and was driven in by a clutch double from senior Charlotte Cooney.
The Warriors kept the momentum going in extra innings, with senior Micah Smith cracking a double in the eighth inning and reaching third base on a wild pitch. Smith scored the game-winning run when freshman Brayden Real knocked a line-drive single to left field.
“It was not the start we wanted,” said Carpinteria coach Pat Cooney. “Channel Islands came to play and they taught us an early lesson about preparation. Fortunately, we have enough positive leadership among the players that they rallied the group, made some adjustments and refused to lose. The players deserve the credit for righting the ship.”
Carpinteria was led by a combined effort on the mound, with senior Dallas Bartholic holding through the first three innings before Cooney came in to keep the Raiders off the board through the sixth inning. Senior Gabe Martinez secured the win with a clean finish in the
seventh and eighth innings.
The trio of pitchers also contributed with their bats in the win. Cooney knocked in two runs on two hits and scored one run herself; Bartholic scored two runs after reaching base twice; and Martinez finished with two hits and an RBI.
With the win, the Warriors firmly secured a spot in the CIF postseason with third place in the Citrus Coast League.
“It feels great to have achieved the goal of making the playoffs,” coach Cooney said. “The Citrus Coast League is really competitive and grinding through to the opportunity took some real perseverance by the players.”
Two days later, the Warriors hosted Channel Islands for a rematch at Carpinteria’s John Calderwood Field.
This second game was similar to the
first, with Channel Islands jumping out to an early lead and forcing Carpinteria to orchestrate a comeback to earn a onerun win.
The Raiders led 3-2 heading into the bottom of the third, when Bartholic smashed a two-run homer over the right field fence to put Carpinteria ahead 4-2.
Channel Islands came back to regain the lead, 6-4, before Carpinteria responded with a trio of runs to take the lead and the win, 7-6. The winning run was scored by Real, who crossed the plate when sophomore Gabe Chung snuck a single through the left side.
Carpinteria sophomore pitcher Jonah Hernandez started on the mound and lasted through four innings, keeping the Warriors in the game until Martinez came in to earn his fourth win of the season with three scoreless innings.
“We sure did have to work our way through some bad luck and miscues,” coach Cooney said. “This team has shown resilience through bad luck, bad plays, tricky calls and good opponents.”
With their playoff ticket punched and the league standings settled, the Warriors hosted one final non-league game against Villanova Prep on May 2. This was the regular season finale and served as Senior Day for the six outgoing Warriors seniors: Bartholic, Cooney, Martinez, Morente, Smith and Sam Medel.
The Warriors seniors put in a historic performance for Senior Day, with four Carpinteria pitchers combining for a no-hitter on the way to a 14-0 victory.
WARRIOR BASEBALL continued on page 26
COURTESY PHOTO
Warriors baseball seniors Micah Smith, Sam Medel, Charlotte Cooney, Gabe Martinez, Noah Morente and Dallas Bartholic.
ROSANA SWING
The Warriors threw a combined no-hitter on Senior Day, with Charlotte Cooney throwing two clean innings with four strikeouts.
ROSANA SWING
Micah Smith contributed with both his bat and his performance on the mound on Senior Day.
SHORT STOPS
BY RYAN P. CRUZ
Sophomore Halleh Gahan set a new personal record in the 100-meter hurdles.
Carpinteria girls track team wins league title
Carpinteria’s track and field finished a successful regular season with a strong showing at the Citrus Coast eague Championships, hosted at Carpinteria Memorial Stadium on pril 30.
The Warriors girls athletes have been nearly impossible to beat in league competition this season, and Carpinteria’s girls team kept its undefeated record intact with a resounding victory at the league championships. Carpinteria’s girls team won 10 of 16 individual events, taking first place overall and claiming the league title with 1 2 points.
Senior sprinter ivian uskins took first place in the 200-meter race with a new league record time of 2 . 6 seconds. uskins was also part of the winning 4x100 relay s uad along with Isla Moore, iarys omez and aydance ardner. Moore, omez and ardner then teamed up with sophomore alleh ahan to take the win in the girls 4x400 relay. ahan also went on to win the girls 100-meter hurdles with a new personal record time of 16. 4 seconds.
Senior iana iah set a new personal record and earned first place in the girls 1600-meter race; and sophomore Callie abistour took first in the long jump with a new personal record of 1 ’ ’’.
The boys team finished fifth overall with 1 combined points. ordhoff took the league title with 14 points.
Carpinteria had several athletes ualify for CI with second-place finishes, and one individual league champion in senior osiah onzales, who set a new personal record and took first place in the boys high jump.
“It was an outstanding day for the Warriors,” said Carpinteria coach an atham. “It is very satisfying to see us be ready when it counts. We ended up with a few more CI ualifiers than we expected.”
Carpinteria track and field will host the CI Division 4 relims on Saturday, May .
WARRIOR BASEBALL
continued from page 25
The no-hitter was a fitting example of Carpinteria’s season, with the team effort shining above individual accomplishments. Bartholic started the no-hitter through two innings before Medel came in to strike out five batters over the next two innings.
Cooney came in for the next pair of innings, turning in four strikeouts and preserving the no-hitter before handing off the ball to Smith, who closed out the game with a clean final inning.
“The class of 2026 is most deserving
of the efforts that were made to make this a special day,” coach Cooney said.
“I’m grateful for all of them, and it is especially surreal that my own child Charlotte Cooney is included among such a great group. It’s not lost on any of us that we have been very lucky to be in this situation for such a good long time.
Carpinteria baseball truly is surrounded by good people.”
The Warriors end the regular season with a 1 - record overall, and -4 record in league play. Carpinteria will prepare for the CI playoffs, with brackets scheduled to be released this weekend.
“ o matter what, this particular season has been a great ride,” coach Cooney said.
ON DECK
Thursday, May 7
Carpinteria Swimming at CIF Prelims (San Antonio College), 4 p.m.
Friday, May 8
Carpinteria Swimming at CIF Prelims (San Antonio College), 4 p.m.
Saturday, May 9
*Carpinteria Track & Field hosts CIF Prelims, 10 a.m.
*Denotes Home Game
Warriors tennis competes in league finals
fter Carpinteria boys tennis secured a share of the league championship with a win over ordhoff on Senior Day on pril 2 , the Warriors had five players ualify to compete at the Citrus Coast eague individual tournament finals the next day on pril 2 .
The highlight of the individual championships came when Carpinteria’s top doubles duo of Servando Campuzano and than lmgren came away with a win to complete an undefeated season against league opponents, finishing as the Citrus Coast eague Doubles Champions and Doubles M s.
“They both carried each other as the match ebbed and owed,” said Carpinteria coach Charles Bryant. “When one was struggling a bit, the other would step up and take control. I was so proud and happy they pulled it out in the end.”
Carpinteria senior dwin ernandez had a chance at the league singles championship, though he was defeated in the final match by ueneme’s top singles player ael arra.
The Warriors’ doubles duo of ohn Morrison and Tiago l- aidi earned a chance in the third-place match, though the Carpinteria duo eventually fell to the pair from Malibu.
“I was really happy with all of our performances today,” coach Bryant said. “I thought the Carpinteria players stepped up, win or lose, and made their opponents work for every point. Congratulations to all of the performers today.”
Carpinteria’s league-champion doubles duo of Campuzano and lmgren ualified to compete at the CI sectional tournament on May 21. ernandez also ualified to compete in singles as the second-place finisher.
Carpinteria softball claws out win
Warriors softball closed out the year with one more highlight, picking up a win over ueneme in the final Citrus Coast eague game of the year on May 1. eading into the ueneme game, the Warriors had lost nine straight, including losses to ordhoff on Senior Day on pril 2 and a blowout loss to illmore in a league game on pril 30.
Carpinteria senior amaica Cook factored heavily in the Warriors win over ueneme on May 1. Cook pitched a complete game, lasting through all seven innings while holding the ikings to just two runs and five hits.
Cook got help from the Warriors offense, with Carpinteria taking the lead with a three-run rally in the top of the third inning. The rally was started off by junior
SOFTBALL continued on page 27
ROSANA SWING
ROSANA SWING
Seniors on the boys tennis team include, from left, Edwin Hernandez, Kamran Dadvar and Servando Campuzano.
ROSANA SWING
Senior softball players include, from left, Jamaica Cook, Laura Jimenez, Sophia Colin, Sophia Santana and Cecilia Lemus.
Warriors swimmers repeat as league champs
BY RYAN P. CRUZ
Carpinteria’s boys and girls swim teams both defended their Citrus Coast League titles, as the boys team claimed its sixth consecutive league championship while the girls team made it three in a row with wins at this year’s league championship meet.
The Warriors set the tone on the first day of the championships, with Carpinteria’s swimmers earning wins and top finishes from all the way down the roster, for both the boys and girls events.
Carpinteria claimed the top two seeds in the girls 0-yard race, with Izzy Scott and Hazel Dugré both swimming lifetime bests to come in first and second place. Scott also ualified first in the girls 100-meter freestyle, followed in second place by teammate Madison Lee.
The boys team matched those finishes with Sky Korling, Luke Donahue and Ryder Shaw coming in the top three spots in the 100-yard butter y. In the 100-yard free, it was another trio of Warriors, with ake hlers, Wyatt itterle and Massimo Bonilla- akosek taking the top three.
“Rather than relying on just a few standout swims, this was a complete team effort,” Carpinteria coach on tsuki said about the first day finishes. “Veterans led the way with poise and experience, while younger swimmers rose to the occasion, contributing in meaningful ways and proving they belong on this stage.”
n the day of the finals on pril 30, the Warriors sealed the league championships for both the boys and girls with another set of speedy swims across the board.
The boys took the league championship with a combined score of 366 points, finishing well ahead of second-place Malibu at 2 4 points. The Warriors girls finished in first place, also ahead of Malibu, with a combined score of 26 points.
Carpinteria’s team wasted no time in setting the stage for a record-breaking day in the pool. Warriors swimmers set new personal bests, CI ualifying times and several new school records within the first few races of the day.
The girls relay team of Scott, Dugré, Lucy Moore and Klari Blackman opened the meet with a first-place finish in the girls 200-yard relay, shaving four seconds off their previous best time and overtaking Malibu for the win.
The boys relay s uad of orling, Bonilla- akosek, ake hlers and Stefano iccoletti followed with a new school record in the 200-yard relay.
Ehlers continued the success with a come-from-behind win in the 200-yard freestyle, finishing in first place and breaking his own school record with a new all-time best time of 1:4 :41. hlers capped off his day with a third school record in the boys 100-yard freestyle, breaking his previous record from earlier this season.
The winning continued in the 200 individual medley, as Lee took the win in the girls race and Chris Reed took the win in the boys race with a new lifetime best and CIF consideration time.
Before the day was done, the Warriors
Hazel Dugré has been a key piece of
earned first-place finishes in 10 of 16 individual events, with the boys team winning all three relays and the girls team taking two out of three relay events.
These performances included 2 new personal records, three new school records and multiple CIF postseason ualification times.
“With CI -SS competition ahead at Mt. San Antonio College, these performances position the Warriors strongly for advancement, ualification heats and potential finals appearances,” coach Otsuki said. “More importantly, the meet showcased a team competing with confidence, depth and a culture of excellence built on trust, preparation and belief in one another.”
SOFTBALL
continued from page 26
Anaia Nunez, who knocked in two runs with a double, followed by an RBI single from senior Sophia Colin.
The Warriors offense finished with 10 hits on the day. Carpinteria baserunners were aggressive, picking up five stolen bases on the day. Senior Sophia Santana drove in two more runs to help Carpinteria seal the win by a final of -2.
“It was a great team effort,” said Carpinteria coach Tammy elson.
Cate Rams roundup
Cate’s boys and girls swim teams both capped off the season with a strong showing at the Tri alley eague Swim Championships on May 1, with both teams winning the overall score total and many Rams swimmers earning individual championship titles. en Won and mi anda- leeson both came away as double-winners. Won took first place in both the 0-yard freestyle and 100-yard butter y, while anda- leeson won both the 200-yard individual medley and 100-yard backstroke.
Cate’s boys and girls relay teams each won two races, with the girls 200-yard medley relay team of anda- leeson, Tori im, Sofia Wang and Makayla iu taking first place and setting a new school record time of 1: 4. 2.
The Rams track and field team had several standout performances at the Tri alley League Track and Field Championships the same day, with Cate athletes coming away with 12 CI - ualifying spots and five individual league championships. unior Sophie Blank earned the league championship in the girls 00-meter race, and also earned a second-place finish in the girls 1600 meter. Blank was also part of the Rams’ championship winning 4x400 relay team.
Senior Emerson Evans took the top spot in the girls triple jump; junior Ryan Chen took first in the boys triple jump; and junior ackson Steele claimed the league championship in the boys 400-meter dash.
“I’m proud of this group and the growth we have and will continue to experience,” said Cate coach yle Mason. “We are excited for CI -SS relims and the future of our program.”
TINA LEE
Chris Reed helped the Warriors earn a sixth straight league title with a new personal best time in the 200-yard individual medley.
TINA LEE
the Warriors three-time league championship swim team.
Jazzercise hosts DanceFest
Jazzercise Carpinteria hosted DanceFest, a special team-taught class, on Saturday, May 2, at the Carpinteria Veterans Memorial Building on Walnut Avenue. At left, leading the class were instructors, from left, Patty Carreno, Connie Fourqurean, Teresa Till, Aurora Zemjanis, Christina Shea and Beth Scerni.
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