Santa Barbara Independent 6/4/26 by SB Independent

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Generations of

When the Palisades Fire displaced Emily and her family, she was 28 weeks pregnant. They found safety in Santa Barbara – and Cottage. Baby Athena arrived early, spending 65 days in Cottage’s Haselton Family

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Athena grew strong. She thrived. Today, she’s spreading joy wherever she goes.

Imagine what we’ll do next.

Emily Sunderland, mother of four, Santa Barbara

Executive

News Editor Jackson Friedman Opinions Editor Jean Yamamura

Arts and Culture Editor Leslie Dinaberg

Calendar Editor Terry Ortega Calendar Assistant Isabella Venegas

Kettmann

News Reporters Ryan P. Cruz, Callie Fausey, Ella Heydenfeldt, Elaine Sanders

Senior Arts Writer Josef Woodard

Mickey Flacks Fund Fellow Christina McDermott Assistant Editor Tiana Molony

Copy Chief Tessa Reeg Copy Editor Nathan Vived Sports Editor Victor Bryant

Web Content Manager Don Brubaker Social Media Manager Maya Johnson

Food Writer George Yatchisin Travel Writers Macduff Everton, Mary Heebner

Art Director Xavier Pereyra Associate Production Manager Bianca Castro

Graphic Designers Leah Brewer, Diego Melgoza, Haley Snyder

Columnists Dennis Allen, Gail Arnold, Sara Caputo, Christine S. Cowles, Laura Gransberry, Betsy J. Green, Shannon Kelley, Austin Lampson, Melinda Palacio, Cheri Rae, Hugh Ranson, Amy Ramos, Starshine Roshell

Contributors Ingrid Bostrom, Rob Brezsny, Jim Buckley, Cynthia Carbone Ward, Ben Ciccati, Cheryl Crabtree, John Dickson, Roger Durling, Chuck Graham, Keith Hamm, Rebecca Horrigan, Gareth Kelly, Kevin McKiernan, Carl Perry, David Starkey, Ethan Stewart, Brian Tanguay, Tom Tomorrow, Kevin Tran, Jatila Van der Veen, Isabelle Walker, Maggie Yates, John Zant

Director of Advertising Sarah Sinclair Marketing and Events Manager Richelle Boyd

Advertising Representatives Suzanne Cloutier, Bryce Eller, Ariana Hugo, Tonea Songer, Scott Maio

Digital Marketing Specialist Graham Brown Business Operations and Accounting Manager Erin Lynch

Office Manager/Legal Advertising Tanya Spears Guiliacci Distribution Gregory Hall Interns Alice Dehghanzadeh, Andrew Migliaccio, Evan Ragland, Madeline Slogoff, Lauren Solway, Emily Vesper

Columnist Emeritus Barney Brantingham Photography Editor Emeritus Paul Wellman

Founding Staff Emeriti George Delmerico, Richard Evans, Camille Cimini Fruin, Laszlo Hodosy, Scott Kaufman Honorary Consigliere Gary J. Hill

IndyKids Bella and Max Brown; Elijah Lee, Amaya Nicole, and William Gene Bryant; Henry and John Poett Campbell; Emilia Imojean Friedman; Rowan Gould; Finley James Hayden; Ivy Danielle Ireland; Madeline Rose and Mason Carrington Kettmann

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

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by Callie Fausey, Christina McDermott, and Emily Vesper

As our Best of Santa Barbara® Readers’ Poll opens today, we caught up with one of our advertising representatives, Bryce Eller. Though preparing our promotions launch, Eller was able to squeeze in a Memorial Day weekend trip to Yosemite National Park. With his partner, he also traveled into the valley and even snuck in a day of skiing at Mammoth before snapping right back into the sales mix. “This will be my third Best of Santa Barbara®, and I can confidently say it’s both the most exciting and the busiest time of year. It’s a fantastic opportunity for both new and long-standing local businesses to remind our readers that they are an important part of our community and that Santa Barbara wouldn’t be the same without them. It’s a lot of work, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to be part of something that highlights and supports so many great local businesses,” Eller said.

Head to independent.com/about-the-indy to read more about Eller’s trip and his work during our busy Best of Santa Barbara® season.

Education at Evolutions

ON THE COVER: Melina Poinsettia.

Photo by Mirian Gil-Solis. Design by Xavier Pereyra.

Bryce Eller View of Half Dome in Yosemite

Care That Honors Who They Are

There’s a deep comfort in knowing they’re seen for who they’ve always been. Care here is shaped around the individual, with attention to familiar routines, personal preferences and the moments that still bring connection.

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

June Gloom Elections in S.B.

by Nick Welsh

With 61 candidates for governor on the ballot the most since the 2003 recall election when there were 135 voters this June seemed to know more what they didn’t like than what they did. In Santa Barbara County, turnout thus far some ballots still have yet to be counted was just 26.8 percent. That’s down 13 points from four years ago, the last June primary with a governor’s race atop the ticket.

In Santa Barbara County, where being a billionaire isn’t held against you, reformed billionaire and climate change crusader Tom Steyer placed first with 28 percent of the votes cast, Republican Steve Hilton (Donald Trump’s pick) placed second with 25.5 percent, and Xavier Becerra the personification of the Democratic status quo with 37 years in the electoral trenches placed third.

Statewide, Steyer appears to be placing a distant third, but with half the state ballots still uncounted, it remains within the realm of mathematic possibility for him to close that gap. Still, it’s an uphill climb. Steyer has blamed the Big Money campaign $78 million at last count led by the likes of Chevron, the big utility companies, and large corporate interests to blow him out of the race. For the moment, Steve Hilton, the MAGA-red

Republican candidate endorsed by Donald Trump, appears to be the top vote-getter for the top spot in the bluest state of the nation. (Even in Santa Barbara, Hilton placed a solid second.)

While Hilton’s standing no doubt offers momentary comfort and glee to Donald Trump famous for his well-documented antipathy to California Tuesday night’s

Paseo Nuevo Plan a Slam Dunk

The new two-piece proposal to transform Paseo Nuevo shopping mall in downtown Santa Barbara earned a glowing review from the City Council Tuesday, with councilmembers hailing this latest proposal as a “win-win-win” for all sides involved.

The new plan which emerged as an alternative option for Paseo Nuevo after the previous proposal stalled back in December 2025 would bring Santa Barbara–based software company Yardi System’s corporate headquarters into the long-vacant Macy’s building at the same time as a residential housing overhaul of the Nordstrom building with up to 112 units on the other side of the mall.

“The bottom line is that these two concepts present a generational opportunity to revitalize our downtown core to jump-start this vision that we’ve all been fighting for on State Street, and to do it now,” said Councilmember Meagan Harmon, one of the most vocal supporters of the proposal.

City Administrator Kelly McAdoo outlined the plan, which requires the cooperation of

HOUSING

Tri-County Produce, a 50-year-old Santa Barbara institution, got a new lease on life when Wendy and Eric Schmidt bought it before owner Jim Dixon closed the doors in 2025. Now the location of a four-story apartment proposal, the project went before the city’s Architectural Board of Review on 5/26 the fifth and final public hearing for the project per Senate Bill 330 gaining a unanimous vote to proceed. At 335 South Milpas, property will rise 45 units, down from the original 53, 14 to be threebedroom apartments. Among all units, three are for very low-income tenants, with one unit for moderate income. The market, now run by father and son Jaime and Mito Desales, will mark off a total of 45 parking spaces.

EDUCATION

results indicate that come November, Becerra’s victory is all but inevitable, so implacably wide is California’s gap in party registration.

Among Santa Barbara politicos, Assemblymember Gregg Hart, who won easily with 60 percent, was among the first three in the state legislature to endorse Steyer. In Sacramento, Hart is playing a lead role in the fight against Sable Offshore, and among anti-oil

all parties in the complicated ownership structure, including the city, which owns the ground under the mall; DSP (a partnership between Dune, Shopoff Realty Investments, and Praelium), which owns the Nordstrom

and the

and

Philanthropist Betty Elings Wells has donated $1 million to San Marcos High School’s Royal Pride Foundation to support the school’s Building Community Wellness Project. The gift will help build a new wellness center on campus to provide physical and mental health services to students and families. It will be designed to be “welcoming, private, and accessible,” according to the Royal Pride Foundation, the nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting San Marcos High School. It will include multiple therapy rooms, space for group counseling, and areas for wellness education and programming intended to “normalize care and make support more approachable” for students, families, and staff.

WORLD

Santa Barbara–based nonprofit Direct Relief is sending $2.5 million worth of medical aid to the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where a deadly Ebola outbreak continues to spread. The outbreak is caused by a rare species of Ebola, the Bundibugyo virus, with a fatality rate of 30-50 percent. Staff in Santa Barbara’s medical warehouse for Direct Relief completed packing the shipment of supplies, which includes personal protective equipment, antibiotics, medications, and safety equipment. The supplies are being sent to a wellness clinic in Goma, where healthcare workers are at high risk of being infected due to the virus spreading through bodily fluids.

STATE

A much-amended bill proposed by Assemblymember Gregg Hart to give county supervisors statewide the potential for greater oversight of their county jails passed the Assembly last week by a vote of 41-25 with 14 members either not voting or abstaining. If the bill, AB 2257, is approved by the State Senate and signed by the governor, it would give county supervisors the option of wielding more direct leverage in the appointment of county jail executive administrators.

TRANSPORTATION

Construction work on bridges or undercrossings along Highway 101 as it goes through Santa Barbara takes place during the night, Sunday through Friday, starting this week. Sycamore Creek Bridge and the undercrossings at Cacique, Milpas, and Garden street repairs will occur between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., causing intermittent lane and ramp closures at those streets. In active construction zones, delays should be limited to 10 minutes, CalTrans stated. n

parcel; AllianceBernstein, which owns rights to the Macy’s building, the mall parking lot,

inline retail spaces;

Yardi Systems, which is looking to acquire AllianceBernstein’s combined interests.

From left: Kyle Slattery, Laura Capps, and Gregg Hart on election night

From left to right: Tess Harris, State Street Master Planner; Patricia Flynn, economic consultant with Maxima Group; Dan Hentschke, Assistant City Attorney; Kelly McAdoo, City Administrator

Santa Barbara Writers Conference

Liberty St. Killers Get Life

Carpinteria gang members Angel Varela, 31, and Oscar Trujillo-Gutierrez, 29, who were convicted of first-degree murder in the shooting deaths of two Santa Barbara teenagers, were sentenced last Thursday to lifetime prison terms without the possibility of parole.

The January 2021 shooting took place at the intersection of Liberty and South Soledad streets on Santa Barbara’s lower Eastside, with Varela walking up and opening fire at a group of people who had gathered for a Sunday party. Angel Castillo, 17, and Omar Montiel-Hernandez, 18, were both fatally struck in the back as they fled. Two others were seriously injured.

A juvenile, who drove Varela and Trujillo-Gutierrez to the scene and whose identity has not been publicly released, was prosecuted in Santa Barbara County Juvenile Court. He was convicted on two counts of premeditated and deliberate first-degree murder. His sentence is pending.

All three were also found guilty of committing the murders for the benefit of their “Carpas” street gang, a small but violent clique in the otherwise quiet beach town of Carpinteria. They had driven north that day to “hunt” members of their rival Eastside gang, prosecutors said. When they were later arrested, police seized three assault-

COURTS & CRIME

style rifles, three semi-automatic handguns, eight bulletproof vests, and more than 2,400 rounds of ammunition.

Initially, authorities described the shooting victims as members of a “rival gang,” but their family members vehemently denied the characterization and insisted they were not associated with gangs.

Montiel-Hernandez had recently graduated from Santa Barbara High School and was “a great big brother who looked out for his younger siblings,” his family said.

Castillo, a senior at Santa Barbara High, was remembered in 2021 by his mother, Rita, for his wide smile and sweet disposition. Because of COVID, she and her husband were not allowed in the hospital the night he was killed. They only learned of his death when one of the two people who’d been wounded texted his own mother waiting with the couple outside the emergency room: “Angel didn’t make it.”

In the weeks that followed, both Rita and the police worried about a possible chain reaction of gang retaliation. “Look, nobody wants these guys more than I do, but killing them isn’t going to bring Angel or Omar back,” she said at the time. “It will just mean more innocents get killed. I want them arrested, tried, and convicted. That’s what I want.”

—Tyler Hayden

Restaurateur Fined for Illegal Fishing

The owner of an upscale Southern California restaurant and seafood shop known for promoting its products as sustainable and traceable has been fined more than $120,000 after a state investigation found he repeatedly violated commercial fishing laws and engaged in deceptive marketing practices.

Conner Mitchell, 37, who operates Dudley Market in Venice, illegally fished in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) off the coast of Santa Barbara Island, among other locations, an investigation by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) found. His catches included rockfish, Pacific bluefin tuna, and yellowtail.

“Violating fishing regulations that are intended to preserve Marine Protected Areas threatens the environment and the fishing industry that depend on sustainable fish stocks in the future,” said Santa Barbara County District Attorney John T. Savrnoch.

Two of Mitchell’s business partners Taylor Grant, 41, and Cody Martin, 30 were also targeted in the investigation that included searches of their cell phone records and the chart plotters aboard their fishing boats, Jamaican Day and Predator. Grant and Martin were also ordered to pay tens of thousands of dollars in penalties. All three are now prohibited from owning or operating commercial fishing vessels in California.

Outside the MPAs, the trio also sold sportcaught fish illegally, authorities said. Under California law, fish taken by a commercial vessel must be brought to port and docu-

mented on an electronic “fish ticket.” Mitchell and his crews often did not.

In a July 2025 interview, Mitchell discussed the resurgence of Pacific bluefin tuna off the Southern California coast and argued previously prohibited fisheries could now be harvested responsibly. Mitchell, who has run Dudley Market since 2020 and supplies bluefin to a number of L.A. restaurants, portrayed fishing as both a profession and a stewardship, encouraging consumers to ask questions about where their seafood comes from and how it was caught. Mitchell also operates a business called Shark Bite Fish Co., LLC.

L.A. officials coordinated with their S.B. counterparts in the prosecution. “These businesses lured the public into thinking they were caring for our precious resources, when in reality, their fish was unlawfully sourced, “said L.A. County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman.

As part of his plea agreement with authorities, Mitchell posted a message on Dudley Market’s website. It reads:

Pursuant to the terms of a recently entered Los Angeles Superior Court Order, we are required to provide you with notice that we violated California and federal laws applicable to commercial fishermen and fish businesses in California. Simultaneously therewith, we falsely advertised the Dudley Market as source fully sustainable [sic], transparent, and lawfully procured fish. We now comply with California and federal law and have we have [sic] ceased all such false advertising. —TH

Cut from CalFresh

Thousands Set to Lose Food Assistance Under New Requirements

by Christina McDermott

Over the next 12 months, thousands of people in Santa Barbara County will lose access to the largest food assistance program in the country. On Monday, the federal government expanded the work requirements for able-bodied people to enroll in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, putting about 5,400 folks in Santa Barbara County at risk of losing support. But county nonprofits and charities are working to help feed people impacted by the change, as well as what several say is a growing need in the wider community.

SNAP, called CalFresh in California, helps low-income people afford groceries. In Santa Barbara County, more than 55,000 people receive the help assistance that pencils out to single-digit dollar support per person per day. Just under 40 percent of recipients are minors. About 62 percent of recipients were dual-enrolled in Medi-Cal, as of January.

The work requirement expansion, put forward by the Trump administration last July as part of the budget bill, impacts adults 55 to 64, parents and guardians with children between the ages of 14 and 17, veterans, unhoused people, and youth recently aged out of foster care. People in these groups are no longer exempt from the program’s 80-hour-per-month work requirement. Refugees and asylum seekers are no longer eligible for SNAP if they don’t have a green card, regardless of their work status.

Small but mighty teams of people are working to make sure people in the county have access to food.

Foodbank, the county’s largest food assistance nonprofit, said in a statement to the Independent that it has budgeted $2.5 million for food purchases the nonprofit’s biggest budget increase outside of COVID. That food will come, in part, from its Farm-to-Foodbank program, which buys from local farmers.

Route One Farmers’ Market, a Vandenberg Village–based nonprofit, connects people with produce and other food, while paying local farmers for their crops. The nonprofit not only accepts EBT (SNAP benefits) at farmers’ markets but also operates a mobile farmers’ market truck. In one year, Route One reported, it delivered more than 200,000 pounds of produce in addition to grass-fed beef and local eggs. Through its Market Match program, it matches SNAP benefits for folks looking to buy produce. The program compensates local farmers; Route One said it supports 14 local farms and generates $590,000 in revenue.

Route One is facing dire cuts. In 2025,

the federal government ended the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program that helps make its work possible. It is currently advocating for state funding so it continues to help provide food for people in need.

Since last fall’s government shutdown temporarily halted the distribution of SNAP benefits, Veggie Rescue is working to increase its supply. Veggie Rescue picks up surplus produce and other food from 55 farms and farmers’ markets, grocery stores, and a bakery, as well as from people’s yards, and delivers it to 70 nonprofit food distributors in the county. Last year, Veggie Rescue delivered more than 750,000 pounds of food.

For folks with access to food that could go to waste whether that’s a lemon tree in your yard or excess food from your restaurant there’s an opportunity to sign up to work with the organization, which will pick up your surplus food.

Food insecurity is also a focus for the Santa Barbara Foundation a nonprofit who, in 2024, reported more than $121 million in revenue (in the four years prior, the organization has reported revenue between $37 million and $65 million). Last fall, in response to disruptions in funding for local nonprofits and rising demand, the Santa Barbara Foundation launched a rolling grant program called the Critical Needs Response Fund. The fund provides up to $50,000 in grant money for nonprofits, with an eye toward nonprofits that keep people housed, fed, and provide needed medical care. It has already distributed $800,000.

The foundation is also collecting data on food insecurity in the county to better pinpoint communities where the need for affordable or free food is acute, how to best reach and provide resources to people in these areas, and what gaps in service currently exist. The goal is to guide the foundation’s future approach to addressing food insecurity.

For more organizations that help people stay fed, please see our online coverage at Independent.com.

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Foodbank workers distribute food to low-income residents.

BRILLIANT THING

2,050 Arrests Since 2025

Immigrant Rights Orgs Report Shift in Enforcement Tactics, Surge in Arrests in Past Six Months

by Ryan P. Cruz

An updated report on immigration-related arrests on the Central Coast by 805 UndocuFund’s Rapid Response Network reveals a consistent presence of federal enforcement activity despite the government’s shift to a more discreet approach in recent months.

According to the data collected through immigrant rights organizations, the Rapid Response Hotline, and community patrols, there were at least 2,050 people detained by federal immigration enforcement in Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo counties since the beginning of the second Trump administration in January 2025. Over the past six months, specifically, there have been more than 580 detentions, representing a nearly sixfold increase compared to the same time period last year.

The federal government has also changed the way it publicly represents its immigration enforcement, as new Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin who took over after the previous secretary Kristi Noem was fired in late March explained during an interview with a local news station in May.

“My goal is that ICE and the DHS, we’re not in the news cycle anymore,” Mullin said.

In Santa Barbara County, there were nearly 850 arrests reported since January of last year. According to 805 UndocuFund, the highest concentration of arrests was in the City of Santa Maria, with 531 arrests, followed by Lompoc with at least 168 arrests, and Santa Barbara with more than 103. There were 25 arrests reported in Carpinteria and 10 reported in Goleta. These figures were verified by firsthand witness accounts and information provided by families of those who have been detained.

Meanwhile, on May 29, the Trump administration launched a new page on the official White House website, whitehouse.gov/aliens, which at first look seems like an extraterrestrial-themed webpage, before the scrolling text reveals language portraying immigrants as “aliens” who “walk among us.”

Immigrant rights advocates noted a shift away from the attention-grabbing workplace raids conducted by ICE and DHS during early 2025 to a new approach with higher numbers of arrests that occur outside the view of the public in spaces like county jails and immigration check-in appointments.

Primitiva Hernandez, 805 UndocuFund’s executive director, said the number of arrests represents a surge of “hidden violence” witnessed through the Rapid Response Hotline over recent months. She said she hopes the data reminds the community about the importance of protecting their immigrant neighbors, as public outrage and media focus has shifted from coverage of masked ICE agents in the streets to the more recent protests outside detention centers.

The website refers to immigrants as “invaders” who “arrived under the cover of darkness and embedded themselves directly into our society.”

When the site was originally launched, it also included language that immigrant rights activists called out as derogatory and dehumanizing: “If you witnessed an alien abduction, do not be alarmed,” the site read, in text that has since been deleted. “The alien is in good hands. We will take care of it … and return it safely to its place of origin.”

The website includes what is referred to as a “live encounter map,” with red dots revealing the number of immigration-related arrests in different cities across the country. The arrest numbers were inconsistent upon launch, with different figures reported for the cities of Santa Barbara and Lompoc on the date of the website launch compared to three days later on June 1.

Notably, the number of arrests in Santa Barbara from January 2025 through April 2026 was originally listed at 132, then edited to a lower figure of 82 three days later (805 UndocuFund reported 103 arrests in the city during the same period).

“We are seeing people taken from their homes and communities once again,” Hernandez said. “While media attention has rightly focused on the protests happening at detention centers due to their inhumane conditions, we must remind the public that every person taken from our tri-county region ends up in those same facilities. The violence happening in our streets is directly feeding the crisis of maltreatment and death occurring behind closed doors in detention centers.”

On June 7, 805 UndocuFund, SBResiste, and several UCSB groups will host an “Art for Justice” fundraiser at Topa Topa Brewing Company, noon-5 p.m.

Monarch butterflies mark locations where community members have been arrested by federal immigration enforcement across the Central Coast.

Cabinet Secretaries to Visit Sable

Dems Call for Investigation into Sable’s Possible Backdoor Communications with Trump

by Nick Welsh

As Sable Offshore pumps merrily along, high-ranking Democrats such as U.S. Senator Adam Schiff and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi are calling for an investigation into possible backdoor communications accompanied by campaign donations between Sable executive James Flores and President Donald Trump. At the same time, however, high-ranking White House functionaries such as Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy are reportedly scheduled to visit Santa Barbara and Sable’s legally embattled pipeline project and discuss strategies for addressing legal roadblocks several California state agencies have sought to impose on the Texas-based oil company.

While the big jurisdictional showdown between the federal government and the state over Sable’s legal rights to continue drilling won’t take place until early next week, a federal judge in Los Angeles, Stephen Wilson, issued Sable a temporary but significant legal victory over the California Parks Department, which had sought a temporary restraining order against Sable, late last week.

The state Parks Department charged that Sable is running oil through a four-mile stretch of pipeline located in Gaviota State Park even though the easement allowing that activity expired 10 years ago and that the department has denied Sable’s application to renew that easement on a 30-year basis. The Parks Department sought a temporary restraining order that would require Sable to stop pumping. Such orders require the department to show a strong likelihood of prevailing on the merits of the case and that it would otherwise suffer serious injury.

Sable commenced pumping on March 14 after the federal government Secretary of Energy Chris Wright —ordered it to do

so pursuant to the Defense Production Act of 1950 on national security grounds right after Trump and Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu attacked Iran.

Judge Wilson ruled attorneys for State Parks “manifestly failed to demonstrate that it will suffer irreparable harm in the absence of a preliminary injunction.” To make that finding, Judge Wilson ruled, he’d have to find there was a reasonable risk of an oil spill after oil had flowed below 30 years without incident.

State Parks claimed there was a possible sinkhole under the pipeline; Sable experts said it was a rodent burrow. Judge Wilson opined that the state was “grasping at straws.”

Wilson did not address, however, the fact that Sable had only just recently repaired 18 pipeline anomalies splotches of corroded pipeline but not to the extent the state Fire Marshal has insisted such repairs be made. That will be no doubt be part of next week’s legal donnybrook also in Wilson’s courtroom.

Until just a few months ago, the state Fire Marshal had been legally empowered with the last word on whether the pipeline was safe enough to recommence production at Sable’s plant. At the urging of Sable, the federal department charged with interstate pipeline safety, PHMSA, asserted it was the agency legally empowered to make such calls even though, in 2016, it signed documents stating the exact opposite.

With Trump in the White House, the federal government has veered sharply in favor of the oil industry, and PHMSA has changed its mind. It will be up to Judge Wilson to decide whether the 2020 consent decree giving the Fire Marshal the last word is legally binding. It will also be up to Wilson to determine whether the Defense Production Act passes constitutional muster. And if past is prologue here, whatever Wilson rules will be immediately appealed. n

Pictured from left: Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy are reportedly scheduled to visit Santa Barbara and Sable’s legally embattled pipeline project.

OPENING SOON IN YOUR Neighborhood•!

PASEO NUEVO

The complex ownership created challenges during previous negotiations, as the city and AllianceBernstein balanced competing interests and the project took on many ambitious iterations, eventually ending with a 233-unit proposal that could have required partial demolition and major renovations of city parking lots and the Macy’s building.

When the last proposal was denied by the City Council, Yardi Systems approached the city and AllianceBernstein to express an interest in taking over the vacant Macy’s space. The real estate software company had spent more than four decades building up a reputation as a trusted local business, growing from a handful of employees to a workforce of more than 600, all the while silently supporting nonprofit and philanthropic efforts without much fanfare.

The addition of Yardi Systems proved to make negotiations much smoother, and McAdoo said the city and the rest of the ownership parties were soon all on board to rework the Paseo Nuevo plan with a renewed focus on adaptive reuse. The group that owns Nordstrom already had an application for a retail-to-residential project, and the projects were folded together to be presented as a joint venture that would benefit the owners, the city, and the public.

Under the terms of the proposed development agreement, Yardi Systems would buy all of AllianceBernstein’s interests in the mall. The city would transfer the underlying land to Yardi Systems, and in return the company would make a donation of $5 million to the city’s Local Housing Trust Fund and an additional $700,000 toward the downtown parking fund. The city would also agree to allow the change in use for the Nordstrom project, and DSP would make a $1 million public benefit contribution and a $700,000 donation to the housing trust fund.

If approved, AllianceBernstein’s ownership would be fully extinguished, leaving Yardi Systems as the majority stakeholder in Paseo Nuevo mall.

“With Yardi Systems, we are getting a partner of the highest caliber, and hundreds of employees into the heart of our downtown every weekday, during the exact hours that State Street struggles most,” Councilmember Harmon said.

State Street Master Planner Tess Harris said the new Paseo Nuevo deal marks a major milestone for the revitalization of downtown, and while the city would be giving up its piece of ownership, the resulting project could bring in a steady stream of revenues years into the future.

The city’s current ownership over the ground leases has never brought in annual revenue. But if the city agrees to the terms of the deal, Harris estimates the added benefit to the city’s budget could be upward of $700,000 a year in extra revenues. Yardi System’s 600 employees and the company’s regular visitors could result in $5 million in additional spending downtown, boosting business overall and bringing in hundreds of thousands of dollars in taxes.

“It’s not a giveaway, by any means,” said Councilmember Kristen Sneddon. “We are not contributing nearly as much as the private sector is contributing to this project, and

the benefits are very, very real.”

The new proposal received a wave of support from community members, downtown business owners, and nonprofit representatives who spoke during public comment. Many expressed gratitude to Yardi Systems for being willing to invest in the future of downtown Santa Barbara, in a deal that also infused much needed funding into the city’s housing fund.

Kevin Yardi, senior vice president of global solutions at Yardi Systems, made a rare public appearance to speak about the proposal and history of his family’s company, which was founded by his father, Anant, in 1982.

The couple had moved to Santa Barbara from Detroit a decade earlier and started a family with three young children. When they both lost their jobs in 1982, they took a chance and started their own software company out of their family home. Over the past 45 years, the company has evolved and expanded to several office spaces in Santa Barbara, eventually landing in its current location in Goleta.

Kevin Yardi said the company has made it a guiding principle to support the community and grow in responsible ways, always taking care of employees and notably never resorting to layoffs. Yardi Systems has quietly donated a couple million dollars a year to nonprofits and covers tuition for more than 400 college students through the Yardi Scholars program.

“We always felt that doing right by our community is kind of one of our ethos, our North Star,” Yardi said.

The other piece of the puzzle would be a revamped Nordstrom building with anywhere from 80 to 112 units of residential housing. The adaptive reuse project would keep the structure but remove a portion of the roof to create a central courtyard. At least 10 percent of the units would be required to be set aside for moderate-income renters (80-120 percent of AMI). DSP and Yardi Systems would pay for all of the renovation and construction costs, estimated to be more than $100 million.

The entire council supported the joint proposal and unanimously approved the plan to return with an official development agreement on June 16. During that hearing, the council would officially approve the terms and conditions of the transfer, allowing the companies to submit official project applications that would go through the review boards. If all works out, the project could both begin construction as soon as 2027.

Councilmember Sneddon said she was looking forward to seeing the details of the agreement, and advocated for the city to include guardrails to ensure that the city was covered should any unexpected challenges arise. She wanted to make it clear that the museum and community spaces would remain intact, and asked that the agreement be made available to the public before returning for final approval.

“It is really a day to celebrate, and this project really checks all the boxes,” said Councilmember Eric Friedman. n

ELECTION 2026

activists, Becerra is regarded with skepticism because of the donations he’s taken from oil companies.

On the flip side, Congressmember Salud Carbajal running for his sixth term was among the first to endorse Becerra, one of his key political mentors. Carbajal won with 54 percent of the vote, a decisive margin but still less than he normally wins by. Of the three challengers Carbajal faced, Republican Bob Smith recently retired from the Navy and a centrist by inclination was the most formidable he’s faced in years, taking 38 percent. On election night, Carbajal issued a statement reminding voters of his connection to Becerra. “California deserves a governor who will fight for the working people, and Xavier Becerra is the strong and most qualified leader who will do just that,” he said. “I am proud to have been one of Xavier’s initial endorsers.”

Closer to home, 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps, who was expected to win big in her quest for a second term, wound up winning even bigger, posting a 76 percent victory over challenger Elijah Mack, a 21-year-old religion teacher. Despite the seeming mismatch, Capps maintained a pedal-to-the-metal pace. “I’m super fired up,” she declared at an election-night gathering of about 70 party faithful at downtown’s Public Market. “I approach this job with a sense of urgency every day. I know one speed and it’s fast. It’s just the way I’m wired, because I feel we’re on this planet a short time.” Capps suggested she may have won over some Republican votes with her support for the new fire dispatch system designed to reduce response times by assigning the closest engine to call for service regardless of engine jurisdiction.

In the wide-open race for the 5th Supervisorial District (Santa Maria and Guadalupe), Ricardo Valencia, a high-school teacher and Santa Maria school board member, seems to have secured a solid spot in first place with a combination of paid canvassers and an unequivocally progressive message attacking the aggressive police tactics of ICE agents and income inequality. He campaigned in favor of a minimum wage for agricultural workers, and phasing out the county’s onshore oil. Turnout in the 5th District is historically the lowest of all five, and the base to which Valencia appeals is among the hardest to mobilize.

Assuming the current ranking holds by the time all votes are counted, Valencia will be facing Maribel Aguilera, a Santa Maria City Councilmember. Like Valencia, she is a child of immigrants and the first in her family to attend college. While Valencia a registered Democrat wears his left-leaning politics on his sleeve, Aguilera is harder to pin down. While she’s a declined-to-state party affiliation, the Republican Central Committee, big ag, and business PACs have thrown in solidly behind her.

Placing third, at least for the moment, is Cory Bantilan, who for the past 15 years worked as Supervisor Steve Lavagnino’s right-hand man, district manager, and political advisor. But even with this experience, Bantilan who lost 27 pounds walking precincts only just moved into the

CONT’D FROM P.7

district in order to run; this got him tagged with the outsider label. On the campaign trail, Bantilan promised competence and candor.

Should present trends continue and Valencia and Aguilera make it into the November run-off, the race promises to be intense. Valencia genuinely threatens to rattle the status quo both in the district and on the Board of Supervisors and should enjoy focused financial support from South Coast progressives, Democrats, environmentalists, unions, and women’s organizations. Santa Maria’s growers and oil companies, their political action committees, and the Republican Party will no doubt respond accordingly.

Winning the big upset of the night was Melinda Greene, who beat her longtime boss Joe Holland for the office of County Clerk, Recorder, and Assessor, a position that oversees all county elections. Due to a chronic medical condition, Holland has not been able to show up at work, maintaining telephonic contact with department employees. Melinda Greene is a skilled, longtime department leader, who exudes more snap, crackle, and pop than a box of Rice Krispies. She won with 59 percent, securing endorsement from all five county supervisors, labor unions, the Republican Central Committee, the Democratic Party, and pretty much any entity making endorsements.

The ballot item with the potential to most directly impact housing affordability the City of Santa Barbara’s Measure A2026 won overwhelmingly despite being impenetrably wonky. No one even bothered to wage a campaign on its behalf. Even so, it won with 66.7 percent for it. The measure emerged out City Hall’s urgent efforts to somehow reactivate the longfloundering Paseo Nuevo mall. To entice potential investors, the City Charter needed to be changed to allow the city to lease cityowned land to private developers for 99 years. Presently, the charter restricts the city from leasing land longed than 50 years, too short a period to interest the development and investment worlds.

Ironically, on Tuesday, as voters were casting their ballots, the City Council also ecstatically approved a partnership with the Yardi Company, for an adaptive reuse development plan for Paseo Nuevo. Yardi had made it clear that leasing land for any duration was an absolute deal killer. Even so, City Administrator Kelly McAdoo noted that City Hall owns 400 parcels of land on which housing might potentially be built. By making that land available on a leasehold basis, the city would presumably have enough skin in the game to require more than a token gesture when it comes to affordability.

The biggest nail-biter of the night is between Judge Thomas Adams a 50-year veteran of the Santa Barbara bench and Luis Esparza, a private attorney with a shoebox small practice. By the end of the night, Adams, who’d never had to run for office before, was ahead of Esparza who promised to make the bench more reflective of the community at large by only 572 votes. n

Governor Statewide Results

Steve Hilton: 1,386,966 (27.8%)

Becerra: 1,267,070 (25.4%) Tom Steyer:

S.B. County Results

Measure A2026

County Supervisor, 2nd District

County Supervisor, 5th District

Auditor-Controller

Clerk, Recorder, and Assessor

Superior Court Judge

Tom Steyer

SPRING SANTA BARBARA MUSEUM OF ART

On view in Remixed: Entwined Histories & New Forms, her silk print The alchemy of predator and prey (2023) features a floral border that recalls the decoration of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain. In place of cobalt blue, Lin uses iron oxide, a common ceramic colorant, while the silk itself is stained with indigo, cochineal, and turmeric, dyes with complex histories as global trade commodities.

At the center of the work, mirrored wolves, a pig, and a devil-like figure form a strange and unsettling scene. Through these layered materials and symbols, Lin invites viewers to consider how beauty, trade, violence, and colonial history can be bound together in a single object.

Lin’s practice often brings together art, science, and history, using unexpected materials to reveal the unseen forces that shape culture. Her work asks us to look closely at what objects are made from, where those materials come from, and what stories they carry across time.

TOP LEFT: Candice Lin, The alchemy of predator and prey, 2023. Indigo, cochineal, turmeric and iron oxide on silk.

Courtesy of the Artist and François Ghebaly, Los Angeles, New York. Photo: Paul Salveson.

‘Pencils, Not Pixels’

Parents Push for Stricter Policies on Tech, AI in Schools; S.B. Unified Says It’s Working on It

by Callie Fausey

Wikipedia plagiarism is old-school. Now, students have a more modern workaround: Just ask ChatGPT.

While artificial intelligence can be a powerful tool, many parents say it poses serious risks to students’ learning, safety, and privacy. In the Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD), some are calling for a temporary moratorium on AI in schools until stricter safeguards are in place.

There is already a lack of trust among parents that the district is “doing the right thing for students in regard to tech,” said parent Nick Burwell, who works in the AI industry.

Parents argue that district-issued devices are not secure enough to support responsible AI use. Students can already bypass content filters, access AI platforms, and spend hours on social media or other apps, they say.

“AI is moving so fast, and it’s far more powerful than previous technology tools,” Burwell told the Independent. “We are concerned the district is moving way too slow on establishing proper guardrails, restrictions, and understanding the harms.”

A growing body of research has shown that students can “offload” critical thinking onto AI systems. Parents also pointed to concerns about chatbots suggesting self-harm, encouraging violence, or being used to generate sexualized images of minors.

District officials say some safeguards already exist, including interim AI guidance distributed to staff in 2024. A new AI Task Force will soon work on developing recommendations in areas such as academic integrity and data privacy, with proposed guidelines expected later this year.

Still, parents’ concerns are not abated. With kids receiving their own school-issued iPad starting in 3rd grade, these devices have become embedded in students’ daily lives.

Potential Harms

Parents’ AI concerns are tied into a broader discussion around tech use in schools which involves much more than academics.

At a packed school board meeting on May 19, dozens of parents urged the district to adopt stricter tech policies, modeled after those recently approved by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), directing “technology with intention.”

Their recommendations included eliminating devices for the youngest students, limiting screen time, banning devices during lunch and breaks, restricting YouTube and AI platforms, and allowing families to opt out of districtissued iPads altogether.

“A child with access to an iPad that includes YouTube and ChatGPT with no adult oversight is empirically at risk for serious harms, through cognition, attention, executive function, and wellness,” said Mona Damluji, a parent and associate professor at UC Santa Barbara. “The burden should not be on individual parents or the individual children to defend against the potential harms of school-issued iPads.”

Kids have almost unfettered access to the internet and other distractions, parents say. Parents described students using school devices to play horror games, browse social media, bully classmates, and access inappropriate content during class.

Ali Bjerke, a parent who works in tech, said that a student searched, “can I give blood if I’m on Lexotan” (an anxiety medication), “use paper soaked with drugs to pass in prison,” and “Japanese anime of S&M male-on-male abusive fatal relationships.”

“This must stop,” she said.

Many parents also worry about their children’s data privacy.

Simon Bentley, a parent and IT consultant, said he has observed students accessing consumerfacing ChatGPT on district iPads without parental consent or California Data Privacy agreements.

Bentley compiled a report of these security flaws in schoolissued devices students can also log in to their own personal Apple ID, for example and sent it to the board. He submitted a public records act request for privacy agreements with vendors like ChatGPT that access student data.

“As AI becomes more prevalent, school districts are going to need strong responses and very clear guardrails,” said Rob Cooper, the district’s director of Educational Technology Services.

He included some recommendations, including hiring an outsourced, part-time Chief Information Officer, to strengthen oversight of district technology.

A parent petition asking for tighter restrictions on tech, called “Pencils not Pixels,” has already racked up more than 500 signatures. It lists parents’ demands and calls on SBUSD to “rethink and reign [sic] in the rampant use of screens inside the classroom.”

“These investments are harder than downloading an app, but they’re what works,” said parent Tristan Peter. “We should not be tailoring our teaching around technology. We should be tailoring our technology around our teaching.”

According to a survey from the Santa Barbara Teachers Association, many educators also want more tech-free curriculum options. While phone distractions have been down after the district implemented an “off and away” policy for personal devices, teachers said iPads have been taking their place as the primary “screen distractions,” particularly at the high school level.

Potential Reforms

At the May 19 meeting, Chief Operating Officer Steve Venz presented proposed reforms from the district’s Balanced Learning and Technology Task Force composed of Venz, district staff, school boardmembers, and parents including blocking YouTube access, restricting personal Apple ID logins, banning devices during breaks, blocking cameras, blocking AI, and limiting “constant use” of iPads.

His report also included surveys of students and teachers, many of whom expressed support for iPad use. Parents, such as Burwell, took issue with this.

Burwell said the report focused more on student survey results rather than “evidence that technology increases learning or leads to better outcomes for the students.”

“Why are they asking the kids about this?” Burwell asked. “We don’t have them vote on whether candy and soda should be available for free at school.”

Boardmembers seemed open and eager to adopt stronger tech policies, but they also raised concerns about maintaining equitable technology access for low-income students.

“Not everybody needs to get the same thing, but they should have access to what they need to succeed,” said Boardmember Gabe Escobedo.

Boardmember Celeste Kafri said the district should use LAUSD’s framework “as a starting point” for a policy with “actual teeth.”

At the end of the discussion, Board President William Banning acknowledged that the room seemed to be in agreement, even if policy details were not yet fleshed out.

“I think we all have the same concerns and fears and desires for our kids,” he said. “No single response that we’ve talked about here today will get us to where we want to be. It has to be unified, and it has to start with people.”

On May 26, the Balanced Learning and Technology Task Force met again, working toward a new tech policy. “Members reviewed draft board resolution language, examined alignment with existing guidance, recently approved frameworks for other districts, and discussed next steps for implementation,” said district spokesperson Ed Zuchelli.

Security Measures

District officials have already begun strengthening device security. During spring break, IT staff reconfigured elementary school iPads with stronger filters, and secondary schools are currently testing a new content filter. The district is also working with Apple and device management company Jamf on additional controls.

Rob Cooper, the district’s director of Educational Technology Services, insisted that technology itself is not inherently the problem.

“As AI becomes more prevalent, school districts are going to need strong responses and very clear guardrails,” Cooper said. He noted students are already using AI as a “tutor in your pocket” for brainstorming, organization, and college preparation but acknowledged concerns around cheating, bias, misinformation, and privacy.

Venz framed AI as the latest “flavor” of a long-standing issue.

“If you’re using your device to harm someone or to cheat, it doesn’t matter what that is,” he said. “That’s still against the rules.”

Cooper said the newly formed “AI Task Force and focus groups are going to really take it to the next level as far as what our district believes and values about technology use, in particular in the AI future that we are in.”

Applications for the focus groups closed on May 20.

While the initial intent was to form small working groups to tackle different AI-related issues, strong interest led the district to expand the focus group structure and invite all 66 applicants to participate.

“We are committed to a process that is collaborative, transparent, and representative of the voices across our district,” said Zuchelli.

For many parents, however, the district is moving too slowly while AI evolves rapidly around students. They still want the district to put on the brakes.

Sarita Bott, a mother of two in the district, told the board, “I don’t want my children or any of our community’s children being the guinea pig for what we think we might need to do but still need to figure out.” n

Support the Bridge!

I’m helping gather community support for the proposed pedestrian and bicycle bridge connecting the Eastside to the waterfront. This project is about more than a bridge it’s about equity, connection, accessibility, environmental responsibility, safety, and a more walkable Santa Barbara. Why this matters:

• The Eastside is separated from the waterfront by the 101, with the largest gap between crossings in the city. This bridge would create safer access for families, students, seniors, walkers, and cyclists. Highways divide communities. Bridges connect them.

• Access to the beach, parks, waterfront, SBCC, and zoo should feel welcoming and reachable for everyone. Swimming to a buoy, digging your feet in the sand, having a picnic on the grass, and biking the waterfront these are free public resources that belong to everyone. Every child and family in Santa Barbara deserves to feel that same connection to the coast, regardless of which neighborhood they grow up in.

• More walkability and bike access mean fewer car trips and a healthier community overall. Many residents must take indirect routes to reach the waterfront, creating unnecessary car trips through already congested neighborhoods. This bridge will significantly reduce the more than 18,000 vehicles that drive through the Coast Village/Cabrillo roundabout daily.

The bridge and zoo projects can coexist if planned thoughtfully together. This is an opportunity to invest in connection instead of separation. This project is about opportunity, health, recreation, climate-conscious planning, and community. A more walkable and bike-friendly city should be a shared goal for all of us.

If you support the project, please consider emailing the City Council before the June 9 vote: mayor&council2@SantaBarbaraCA.gov , sbcity council@SantaBarbaraCA.gov —Ev Weddle, S.B.

Endangered Vaquitas

V aquitas are a type of small porpoise and the most endangered animal in the world, at fewer than 10 left. They live in the Gulf of California in the vaquita refuge. Their main threat is illegal fishing with gill nets, which are designed to trap heads and kill anything that swims through them.

Vaquitas are very sensitive to stress and cannot be taken out of the wild for any reason.

An organization called Sea Shepherd, which protects endangered ocean animals, has boats patrolling the refuge 24/7 to stop illegal fishing. They started monitoring that area after the vaquita population went from 567 in 1997 to just 59 in 2015.

Sea Shepherd has stopped illegal fishing by 97 percent, but they still need help. I am writing this letter to spread the word about vaquitas and try to raise money for Sea Shepherd.

I learned about vaquitas volunteering at the Sea Center on Stearns Wharf, and I learned about Sea Shepherd while researching vaquitas for a school project. I realized how endangered they were and knew they needed help.

Thank you for helping me spread the word to raise money for the vaquitas.

—Aria Maiani, 5th Grade, S.B.

Arrests and Mental Health

Individuals with a psychiatric disorder are associated with a four to five times higher risk of committing crimes, according to a National Library of Medicine study. No doubt, the rate is higher when a psychiatric disorder goes untreated.

The Sheriff’s Office reports that persons with behavioral health disorders compose a significant proportion of our jail population: 44 percent in South County and 40 percent in the North County Jail are on psychotropic medications.

It seems clear that we will only significantly reduce the size of our jail population once we focus on access to effective treatment in the community. We have the opportunity to do this with the state’s Behavioral Health Services Act and CalAim PATH.

We also need to improve treatment on the outside to prevent arrests in the first place, with the goal of reducing the high rate of recidivism of those with serious mental illness 76 percent, with 47 percent arrested 10 or more times.

Jails are not designed for treatment. Those with mental illness suffer trauma and deteriorate further while incarcerated. Once released back to the community, many are more ill than when they were arrested and repeat the cycle of crisis and re-arrest. They deserve better access to treatment on the outside.

—Lynne Gibbs, Behavioral Wellness Commissioner

The Independent welcomes letters of less than 250 words that include a daytime phone number for verification. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. Send to: Letters, S.B. Independent, 223 E. De la Guerra St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101; or fax: 965-5518; or email: letters@independent.com. Unabridged versions and more letters appear at independent.com/opinions

Old Spanish Days Goleta Valley Historical Society

THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2026

5:00 P.M. - 10:00 P.M. Tickets: $100.00 all inclusive

Enjoy an evening at the beautiful Rancho La Patera gardens to sample appetizers, wine and beer from local restaurants, wineries and breweries, as well as a performance by the 2026 Spirit of Fiesta and Junior Spirit, musical entertainment, and dancing under the stars to Area 51! No tickets will be sold at the door. 21 and older only.

An o cial Old Spanish Days event in collaboration with Goleta Valley Historical Society

Buy Tickets Now! at Rancho La Patera & Stow House

Beneﬁ ting Old Spanish Days & Goleta Valley Historical Society

Goleta Valley Historical Society Rancho La Patera & Stow House 304 Los Carneros Rd., Goleta

Budgets Are Moral Documents

The Prevention of Crises Can Save Money in the Long Run

BY WAYNE MARTIN MELLINGER

Santa Barbara County’s budget hearings are often framed as technical exercises driven by unavoidable fiscal realities. Revenues decline. Costs rise. Difficult choices must be made.

But budgets are not morally neutral documents. They reveal what a community is willing to protect and what it is willing to abandon.

As someone who has worked in homeless outreach and mental-health advocacy in Santa Barbara County for nearly two decades, I have seen what happens when social systems are hollowed out in the name of fiscal necessity. I saw it during the 2008-2009 recession, when outreach capacity across the county collapsed.

At that time, Santa Barbara County went from roughly 6.5 outreach workers focused on homelessness and mental health to effectively none. The Casa Esperanza homeless center lost outreach staff. The county eliminated the CARES outreach team.

Those cuts did not simply reduce “services.” They weakened the fragile human relationships that keep vulnerable people connected to medication, appointments, shelter, treatment, and sometimes life itself.

I know people who died after those cuts.

Not because anyone intended harm. But because institutional abandonment often unfolds slowly through cuts, delays, fragmentation, and the weakening of the ordinary systems that help people survive.

Today, the county once again faces major budget reductions. At the same time, homeless deaths in our region have sharply increased. The average age of death for unhoused people in Santa Barbara County is approximately 54 years old roughly 25 years younger than housed residents.

That reality should haunt every budget discussion now taking place.

Counties often spend enormous sums responding to crisis after collapse while underfunding the systems that prevent collapse in the first place. We pay for emergency room visits after psychiatric deterioration, law enforcement response after behavioral

crisis, and jail expansion after institutional failure, while steadily weakening outreach, mental-health continuity, addiction treatment, and homelessness prevention.

The poor and marginalized should not bear the brunt of this fiscal pain.

Before reducing outreach and behavioral-health systems yet again, the county should pursue alternative revenue strategies that ask more from those most able to absorb the costs.

First, Santa Barbara County should increase fees associated with luxury tourism and highend short-term rentals, with revenues specifically directed toward behavioral health and homelessness prevention.

Second, the county should aggressively reduce runaway Sheriff’s Office overtime expenditures before dismantling continuity-based social services. Public safety includes preventing psychiatric collapse, overdose, and homelessness-related mortality before crisis escalates into incarceration or emergency response.

Third, the county should expand impact fees on luxury development projects and speculative realestate activity. Santa Barbara remains one of the wealthiest coastal regions in the country. Asking high-end development to contribute more toward sustaining the county’s social infrastructure is not radical. It is responsible governance.

These are policy choices.

Every December, at the Longest Night memorial vigil for unhoused people who have died in Santa Barbara County, we gather to read names that most of the community never hears. Their deaths rarely appear connected to budget hearings held years earlier. But the relationship is real.

Budgets shape continuity. Continuity shapes survivability.

And communities eventually live with the moral consequences of what they choose to sustain and what they choose to let disappear.

Wayne Martin Mellinger, PhD, is a scholar, substance abuse counselor, and longtime homeless advocate.

The Longest Night vigil remembers the unhoused people who died in Santa Barbara County, deaths that are connected to budget hearings over the years, including this one.

obituaries

Marilyn Helsenrott Hochhauser 04/14/1928-04/16/2026

Marilyn Helsenrott Hochhauser, died on the 16th of April, 2026, just two days before her 98th birthday.

Marilyn was a passionate and prolific artist whose dedication to her work spanned close to nine decades. Her love of art took root at a very young age at New York City’s Settlement House on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, and grew into a lifelong calling — one she pursued with unwavering conviction.

Marilyn went on to study Fine Art formally, earning both a BA and MFA through studies at C.W. Post, Hofstra University and furthering her education in Museum studies at New York University. As an active and enthusiastic participant in New York’s burgeoning art scene, she immersed herself in the early days of SoHo, showing work from the vibrant 1970s through to the 2000s. She brought that same passion into the classroom, joining the faculty of Trenton State College as a Professor of Fine Art, before finally relocating to Santa Barbara in her later years to be closer to her growing family.

As her practice evolved, Marilyn began to explore the art of Japanese paper making, and became a frequent visitor of Japan. The study of this ancient craft and culture greatly influenced her work and continued to inspire her in later years. She became an active member of the Toba - Santa Barbara Sister City Group, and organised adventures to Japan for Sister City members here in Santa Barbara.

Marilyn maintained a passionate commitment to the arts during her time in Santa Barbara. She was a vital presence and participant in the thriving local art scene—her creative drive was undiminished to the very end. Her sculpture, Mythic Women, remains one of her many lasting contributions to the community and can be viewed by all at Elings Park.

She is survived by her children, Jan Hochhauser, Shelley Lane, and Lisa Hochhauser; her seven grandchildren, Rachel, Oliver, Sophia, Samantha, Minka, Harrison, and Ariel; and four great-grandchildren. The creative spirit she embodied lives on in all of them — many have found their own paths in the arts, bearing her keen eye, her passion, and her exacting attention to detail. She was predeceased by her husband of 69 years, Murray Hochhauser, her dedicated lifetime partner, who died in 2019.

Janet Hill

03/29/1957-06/02/2012

Janet Ingram Hill, born March 29, 1957, to John S. Ingram and Jeannie L. Ingram in Modesto, passed away on June 2, 2012, in Santa Barbara, the community she called home for nearly her entire life. Though born in Modesto, Janet moved to Santa Barbara as a young child and remained there for the rest of her life, building deep roots through her work, friendships, and above all, her devotion to her family.

In Janet’s youth, she enjoyed spending her days around Santa Barbara — playing baseball at Pershing Park, spending time at West Beach, the breakwater, and Stearns Wharf. Janet grew up on the Mesa and loved animals from an early age. She had a pony named Coy, whom she enjoyed riding alongside her younger sister Julie and Julie’s horse, Cloud, affectionately known as “Bubba.”

Janet spent most of her working years at Butera’s Northside Motor Parts. While never officially titled the office manager, she effectively filled that role and much more. She began working in the auto parts industry at Caesar’s Auto Parts when she was just 16 years old. In the early 1980s, she also taught an auto parts class at Santa Barbara City College. Janet was well known and highly respected within the local auto repair community for her intelligence, responsibility, and strong work ethic. She always made sure customers

received the correct parts and would do everything she could to track down hard-to-find items when needed.

But the role that defined Janet most was being a mother. Her greatest joy and purpose in life were her children, Shawn Hill, Justin Hill, and Kallie Hill McFerron, for whom she worked tirelessly and selflessly.

Those who knew Janet remember her as generous with her time and unwavering in her dedication to the people she loved. She was intelligent, strong-willed, and deeply dependable — someone others could always count on. Her favorite place in the world was simply at home with her children and her dog, Kobe, where she felt most content. She always made sure Kobe was cared for and walked, often saying, “Who’s going to walk this dog?” — a phrase her family still remembers fondly.

Janet fought a courageous battle with colon cancer and remained determined to stay strong for her family. One of her greatest motivations was living to see Kallie graduate from high school, a milestone she was able to witness before her passing. Her perseverance and love for her children defined the strength with which she faced her illness.

In her later years, Janet enjoyed arts and crafts, finding creativity and peace in making things with her hands. Yet even then, her true passion remained caring for and providing for her family. She was a constant presence in her children’s lives, deeply involved in their schooling, activities, and day-to-day lives, always giving her support, encouragement, and love.

One of the sayings Janet lived by was: “Life by the inch is a cinch.” It reflected the practical wisdom and resilience she carried throughout her life. She also had a sharp wit and memorable sense of humor. If she thought someone was not particularly bright, she would jokingly say, “They’re not the sharpest knife in a drawer full of spoons,” a line her family still laughs about today.

Although Janet chose not to have a public obituary at the time of her passing, the years since have only reinforced the impact she had on the lives of her children. The values she instilled — hard work, responsibility, perseverance, and love of family — continued to guide them long after her passing.

Her son Shawn Hill became a successful Certified Financial Planner and has worked alongside Mark Brenner for 19 years, building a respected career helping others plan for their futures. Her son Justin Hill became a successful cabinet maker and has dedicated 18 years to his craft, earning a reputation for skill, hard work, and reliability. Her daughter Kallie Hill McFerron built a successful career at University of California, Santa Barbara, where she serves as a manager overseeing Contracts & Grants, Finance, and Student Affairs. In 2024, Kallie married her husband, Chris McFerron, on Janet’s birthday — a meaningful tribute to the mother whose love and guidance continued to shape her family long after her passing.

Janet is survived by her children, Shawn Hill, Justin Hill, and Kallie Hill McFerron; her siblings John Ingram (Rachelle), James Ingram, Jeff Ingram, and Julie Vior (Randy). Following Janet’s passing, her siblings continued to support and care for her children, providing love, guidance, and family strength during the years that followed — something Janet would have been deeply grateful for.

Janet will be remembered as a loving and devoted mother, a generous soul, and a woman of quiet strength whose care and sacrifices shaped the lives of those closest to her. Her memory continues to live on in the family she loved so deeply.

Richard C. Enloe

12/27/1954-05/15/2026

Richard Enloe was a Santa Barbara transplant and called it home for much of his life. Growing up in the family home on La Ramada Dr., he graduated from San Marcos High School in 1973. Following graduation, Richard moved to San Francisco where he attended San Francisco State for two years pursuing an art degree and later, learning the travel business. Moving back to Santa Barbara in 1986, Richard became a successful travel

agent, serving the travel needs of the Santa Barbara community and beyond for over forty years. Known for his infectious smile and warm personality, he developed life-long friendships with many of his clients.

When he wasn’t working, Richard’s favorite pastimes were traveling, gardening, and spending time with animals, family, and friends. He could coax exotic flowers from the hard earth, birds from the sky, and culinary masterpieces from the oven.

An inveterate dog, cat (and squirrel) whisperer, Richard never met an animal he didn’t fall in love with. Many of these animals became family pets and flourished under Richard’s loving care.

Richard’s constant hero and companion for more than fifty years was his husband, Tony Di Sette. Always curious, viewing life as an adventure, Richard and Tony traveled the world, and inspired others to do the same. They made and kept close friendships and family ties over many decades.

Weekends at home would usually find the two in their backyard gardening, surrounded by their beloved pets and creating a welcoming oasis of beauty and tranquility for all creatures great and small. Over the years, their home became a favorite gathering place for social get-togethers with neighbors, as well as family celebrations and holiday events.

Diagnosed with cancer, Richard fought valiantly for months, but in the end, had enough hospitals and chose to be at home, surrounded by the people, animals, lovely garden and tangible reminders of cherished memories he shared with Tony, family, and friends.

All our lives were made immeasurably more fun and brighter because Richard was in them. His spirit and joyful exuberance will continue to be a part of us all. A celebration of life service will take place later in the year. In the meantime, raise a glass in remembrance of a simply wonderful human being who left us too soon.

Elizabeth Ann Jungkeit 1933-2026

Elizabeth "Liz” Jungkeit (nee Sternberg) was born in Los Angeles, California, on January 11, 1933. Her younger brother, Bill, was born in New York in December 1934. The two shared their early childhood years before the family eventually moved to Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

Some of Liz’s happiest childhood memories were summers spent at her grandparents’ lake place, where she loved being on the water and sailing her beloved sailboat. She also cherished visits with her grandparents on Long Island, where their confectionery store brought delicious treats and warm childhood memories.

In 1957, Liz married Burton Lancaster. Together, they built a life and welcomed four children. Kathy and Burt were born in Chicago, and after the family moved to Orange County in 1960, Kim and Chris were born. Her family became an important part of her story and remained central throughout her life.

Liz worked in administration for many years before retiring in 1996. That same year, she moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where she eventually married her soulmate, Don Jungkeit. Liz and Don enjoyed traveling around the country in their RV coach, accompanied by their beloved blonde Cocker Spaniel, Boomer. Together, they shared a life filled with love and adventure.

After Don’s passing in 2005, Liz filled her days by going to the gym, shopping, spending time with close friends and her companion, Gene, and enjoying visits from her children and grandchildren.

Liz passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026 at the age of 93. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, pleasant nature, and the clever sense of humor she maintained no matter the circumstances. A private family service will be held on June 5, 2026, at Santa Barbara Cemetery, where Liz will be interred.

Tana Sommer-Belin 12/19/1946-03/27/2026

Tana Sommer-Belin passed away in her home March 27, 2026. Tana was born in 1946 in California. She began to paint seriously at the age of fifteen greatly supported by her early teacher and mentor at Santa Barbara High School, Jack Baker, who used color exuberantly and found inspiration in nature’s beauty.

Her studies took her to the University of California at Berkeley in 1964 where she learned photography, and to the College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland where she studied the various techniques of painting and drawing. In 1974 she started etching at the Atelier Buri in Amsterdam. During the following years her etchings were shown in Amsterdam, Utrecht, Paris, Aix-en-Provence, and California. Between 1979 and 1988 her studio was in France in Forcalquier, Alpes de Haute Provence, where she printed her own color photos and continued etching and watercolor painting. When she returned to California in 1989, with her French husband and their daughter, she returned to oil, painting seascapes and California coastal landscapes.

Tana’s style turned to abstract works around 2010. At this time in her career, Tana felt a sense of freedom combined with urgency, leading her into deeper personal and artistic authenticity. She divided her painting year between Santa Barbara and Condeau, in the lower Normandy region of France for almost 10 years.

Tana was an artist through and through, but also a person sincerely interested in people and always ready to lend a hand. Hosting piano concerts, gathering friends over a homecooked meal (most notably her farmer’s market salads), and sharing in a beautiful moment over Champagne were her specialties. Her sense of humor and love of life were boundless. She was the epitome of loyalty, of empathy, giving generously to causes dear to her heart. Often described as a force both in

creativity and her will to live life to the fullest made her an inspiration and precious friend to many. Friends say she believed strongly that good things could always happen while simultaneously taking action to ensure they did. She was a loving mother, grandmother and friend. Her art - endless skies with magical clouds, flowers, the landscapes in France where she lived half of her adult life –speaks for itself. Joy, light, life. She leaves behind her daughter, Eve Sommer-Belin, son in law Jeff Behl, and her adored grandchildren, Olive and Max Behl, and grand-dog Griffin.

Doris Stitz “Dodie” Medved 05/13/1937-05/19/2026

Doris Stitz “Dodie” Medved of Montecito, CA passed away on the morning of May 19, 2026, at her home surrounded by her son, Lyle. She was 89 years old.

Doris was born on May 13th, 1937, Preeceville, Saskatchewan, Canada to Jewish Eastern European immigrant parents Louis David and Sophie Stitz. She was the second of three children: Rose and Mimi Stitz. The family lived in Hazedell, Saskatchewan and then moved to Springside, Saskatchewan. The family moved to Winnipeg, Manitoba when Doris was nine years old.

Doris was a dedicated Registered Nurse (R.N). She did her training in Jewish General Hospital in Montreal, Canada. She was also a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and relative and a very active member of the Santa Barbara Jewish Community, including administering The Harry Kirsch Scholarship here at Congregation B’nai Brith for several years.

Doris’s nursing career began in 1960 at the Children’s Aid Society in Winnipeg Manitoba,

Canada. Her future brotherin-law Dr. Sam Muchnik introduced her to Dr. Arnold Medved around 1962 or 1963. They began dating and wed on Groundhog’s Day February 2 nd 1964. They lived in Winnipeg Manitoba, except for the two years when Dr. Medved finished up his residency at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota and Montreal, Quebec where Dr. Medved conducted research in Dermatology for McGill University. In 1968 they returned to Winnipeg where they spent six years before moving to Montecito, California in 1974.

Doris went back to school to receive her Associate’s Degree from Santa Barbara City College in 1985 in Political Philosophy and then her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (B.S.N.) from Cal State Northridge in 1987. She worked for the Visiting Nurses Association as a liaison between Cottage Hospital, St. Francis Hospital and Goleta Valley Hospital for several years until she became ill with cancer and had to retire. She later received her nursing public health certificate.

Doris was an active member as a volunteer including here in Santa Barbara. She was passionate about advocating, educating, and providing mental resources for all. She and her husband Arnold established an Educational Fund through the Santa Barbara Mental Wellness Center to teach sixth graders about mental illness that is still used by some schools in the Santa Barbara County School system.

Doris served as the President of the Parents Teachers Students Association at Santa Barbara High School in the mid to late 80’s. In 1987, she helped establish the After Prom to give the students a safe place to hang out once the prom ended and is still in operation today.

The nonprofit organization CALM (Child Abuse Listening and Meditation) was near and dear to Doris’s heart. She spent numerous hours volunteering and received the Claire Miles award in 2015-2016. She was most gratified to receive it.

Doris is survived by her husband Dr. Arnold Medved, sons Paul and Lyle, daughter Leanne, daughter-in-law Rachel, sonin-law Matthew Pritichett and grandchildren Matthew and Hannah.

She will be remembered for her impeccable sense of style, fun loving spirit, generosity, wonderful sense of humor and for leaving the world a better place than when she arrived.

Odette Hockin 07/29/1931-05/16/2026

Odette Stapp Hockin, 94, of Santa Barbara, California, passed peacefully on May 16, 2026, at Serenity House. She was born on July 29, 1931, in Evergreen, Alabama.

Odette relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area early in life, where she built a distinguished career as an executive secretary and administrator. She worked at the University of California, Berkeley, the Trixler Brokerage Company, and the San Mateo County Community College District. She was widely respected for her professionalism, precision, and strong work ethic.

She later moved to Santa Barbara where she spent many fulfilling years. During her time in the community, she had many friends and was involved in the Mission Canyon Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution and was a former member of the Santa Barbara Women’s Club and the Montecito/Hope Ranch Republican Women’s Club. She was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church.

Odette resided in Samarkand for over 20 years, where she formed many lasting friendships and enjoyed a rich and active life.

Known for her gentle and kind spirit, Odette brought calm, strength, and warmth to all who knew her. She had a keen interest in the stock market and followed it with great enthusiasm and attention to detail.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret Reynolds Giles, her sisters, Celia Agnew and Martha Bruss and her niece Margaret Trautman.

Odette is survived by her loving nieces and nephew: Kitty Parente (Stephen), Celia Hardy, Carolyn Paige Petlow (Andrew), David Agnew, Beth Loveseth (Ian), Mary Sibley (Travis) and Kris Bugbee.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Visiting Nurses and Hospice Care.

A.Caroline (Carol) Hatcher

Our Carol passed away peacefully in her sleep at Oak Cottage Memory Care on May 21st, 2026, at the age of 92 after a difficult journey through dementia. She was born in Darby, Pennsylvania to parents Henry and Agnes Caroline Biller.

Her childhood was filled with fun and laughter alongside her siblings, Charlie, Elizabeth, and Ruth. Popular at Darby High School, she was known for her humor, mischievous nature and athletic abilities, though not for being particularly studious! She enjoyed being on the cheerleading team, even becoming varsity head cheerleader during her senior year. During this time, too, she developed a keen interest and talent for ice skating; so much so that she dreamed of becoming a professional skater like the ones she watched in skating events she loved to attend.

Alas, professional ice skating was not in her future as life instead moved on to include working for the Bell Telephone Company, a marriage, and starting a family. Ultimately, after her marriage ended, Carol, along with her infant son, Sean, moved to Santa Barbara where her brother, Charlie Sr. and sister-in-law, Margie resided with their son and daughter, Charlie Jr., and Mary Lou.

She quickly found work at the Santa Barbara News-Press, followed later by accepting a position with Santa Barbara Research (which became Hughes Aircraft), from which she ultimately retired in 1998. Life during her working years was augmented by the many sports that revolved around her son, Sean, a gifted athlete, be it surfing (his first love), soccer, baseball, or football. Carol was always part of the carpool and on the sidelines resurrecting her cheerleading skills. Though not a confident driver,

she became the A-number one driver for Sean and his surfing friends with many excursions for sun and surfing at the Rincon. Once it became evident that she had no idea how to maintain a car, she found how easy it was to get around town on the Santa Barbara MTD and became a "regular", knowing many of the drivers by name. Soon after, once she discovered the Santa Barbara Airbus and their variety of day (and longer) trips, there was no stopping her! She quickly became friends with the Airbus trip docents, Christine and Tilly, and enjoyed doing whatever she could to help them out. The Airbus, too, gave her the chance to cheer on the Phillies whenever they were "in town" playing the Dodgers.

Her friends knew all they had to do was to ask, "would you like to....." and before finishing the sentence, Carol had already said "YES"! Travelling with friends, she happily enjoyed not only the Airbus trips, but also cruises, riverboat journeys or tours to Alaska, the Panama Canal, Russia, and Ireland as well as trips closer to home in the U.S. and Canada. Approaching 90, Carol announced she wanted to go ziplining one more time, and so she did! A trip to Santa Margarita for ziplining down the mountainside and over the vineyards was definitely in order! When she wasn't traveling or ziplining, she was a favorite for taking good care of friend's cats or dogs while they were away. Soon, as word of mouth spread, Carol found that she had accidentally started a business.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Elizabeth Biller, and Ruth Lorup, her sister-in-law, Margie Biller, as well as by her son, Sean Hatcher who passed away in 1997.

She is survived by her brother, Charlie Biller Sr., her nieces, Mary Fagaragan, Beverly DiSciascio, and Carol Landis, and nephews Charlie Biller Jr, and Ross Lorup as well as many grandnieces and grandnephews.

Her family and longtime friends, Bonnie Ladd and Lynette Patters are so very grateful for, and in awe of, the patient and gentle loving care Carol was given by the amazing caregivers and staff at Oak Cot-

tage Memory Care (especially Felipe Garcia and Kimberly Hogan (who shares not only Carol's birthday, but also her birthplace!), and by Hospice nurse, Shannon Hemphill. An informal gathering for Carol will be announced at a later date.

Nancy Ruth Anderson 1935-2026

Nancy Ruth Anderson passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, in Santa Barbara, California at the age of 91, with her family by her side.

Born in New York City in 1935, Nancy was the only child of Weston and Lois Ruth. She grew up in rural Napanoch in a loving home; her father was a prison nurse and her mom – a former telephone operatorwas a church volunteer. Nancy attended nursing school in Troy, New York, where she met Don Anderson; they were married in 1956. Don and Nancy moved to Altadena, California, in 1958 to pursue academic careers.

Nancy continued her education part-time throughout the 1960’s and ‘70’s, and later became part of the clinical faculty at the UCLA School of Nursing. She continued to expand her career as a health educator and anthropologist and earned a Ph.D. from UCLA in 1987. She retired as a full professor in the mid-2000’s and remained active in her field for another decade. Much of Nancy’s work and research took place in Central Juvenile Hall in Los Angeles, and included topics on transcultural nursing, adolescent pregnancy and parenting, and perception of AIDS/HIV risk among adolescents. Nancy spoke enthusiastically about her work with students and although she was their teacher and mentor, she always emphasized how much she learned from them.

Don and Nancy moved permanently to Cambria on the central California coast in 2010, where they had been part-time residents since 1987. They each enjoyed an active retirement

and frequent visits from their family – including granddaughters Karley and Blair Rodriguez, and Kendall and Brooke Anderson. Nancy held leadership roles in the nonprofit Cambria Greenspace and was dedicated to preserving Cambria’s forests and preserves.

In 2019, five years after Don’s death, Nancy moved to Santa Barbara and resided in the Valle Verde retirement community, where she made new friends, hosted old friends, and always used her superb listening and mentoring skills. We are deeply grateful to the Valle Verde community and staff, and the team at Assisted Hospice Care, for their compassionate care and support for Nancy in recent months.

Nancy is survived by her daughter Lynn Rodriguez (Steve), son Lee Anderson (Anne); and 4 granddaughters: Karley and Blair Rodriguez and Kendall and Brooke Anderson. She is predeceased by her husband Don Anderson.

Nancy’s legacy of love, service, health education research, and teaching inspired her family, friends and colleagues and she will be deeply missed by all.

Nestora Gonzalez

With hearts full of gratitude and sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Nestora Gonzalez, affectionately known as Tola, who died peacefully in the home she loved so deeply on May 14, 2026, at the age of 88. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Her love and strength have shaped generations of her family.

Tola was born and raised in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. She was a strong presence within her family growing up in the green valley of San Francisco del Oro, a small mining town where she fondly remembered her family life and her father’s horse appropriately named “Horse”. She married Jose Gonzalez in 1957 with

whom she spent the next sixtyfour years together until his passing. They had five children which they raised in Santa Barbara, CA.

Tola exemplifies the heart of the immigrant dream, transforming her journey from Mexico to building a life rooted in hard work, sacrifice and devotion for her family. She dedicated thirty-five years of service to Cottage Hospital and after retirement continued giving back through her volunteer work as a cherished Pink Lady with the Cottage Cancer Foundation.

Tola was a passionate gardener who took immense pride in her orchids and hydrangeas. Her family fondly remembers her legendary green thumb; she could talk any withered plant back to life. Mom was the ultimate plant whisperer, famous for successfully nursing even the most stubborn species back to life.

Her home was a place of endless joy for her sixteen grandchildren, anchored by the comforting memory of a freezer always filled with Rocky Road ice cream, ready to welcome them.

Tola’s legacy will endure, and her spirit will continue to inspire those she touched. Hers was a life that proves that the American Dream is not just about what you achieve, but what you give back. She leaves behind a proud family who will forever miss her and will carry her lessons of resilience, determination, and endless generosity.

Tola is survived by her children Icela Gonzalez, Olivia G. Rodriguez, Irma GonzalezSevilla (Edgar), Arturo Gonzalez, and Jesus Gonzalez Jr. (Yolanda) and stepdaughters Maria Placencia (Moises), and Alicia Rios (Jose).

The family is grateful for the kind and generous support provided by the caring staffs of both VNA Hospice of Santa Barbara and Sharp Hospice of San Diego.

Viewing and Rosary: June 15th, 6:30 PM, San Roque Church Funeral Mass: June 16, 11:00 AM, Santa Barbara Old Mission Interment to follow at Calvary Cemetery Celebration of Life to follow.

Donations can be made to The American Cancer Society, in Lieu of flowers will be greatly appreciated.

obituaries

Alison Priya Strieker 1975-2026

Alison (Ali) was the cherished daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend to many around the world. Her youth was spent in Nairobi, Kenya, and Santa Barbara, Ca. Her studies, travels, and work took her around the USA and to East Africa, Mexico, Canada, and Europe.

Ali was a Renaissance Woman. Her experiences, connections with people, and evolving interests fed her insatiable hunger for life. She was multi-talented and inquisitive. She studied at the International School of Kenya, and graduated from Santa Barbara High and SB City College. She had been a nanny in France, licensed cosmetologist, watercolor and makeup artist, retail employee and manager, a natural foods salesperson, and a senior living facility receptionist.

Ali was curious, wise, creative, and artistic. She wrote brilliantly from her gentle heart. She was sensitive, spiritual, and sweet. She was playful, perceptive, and passionate. She had a free spirit and a unique sense of humor. She saw and created beauty everywhere. She was courageous, sometimes spikey, and always caring.

She embraced nature, all animals, beaches, travel, diverse cultures, family, and close friends. Art, music, films, hiking, and explorations were her favorite pastimes. She treated all people as valuable beings, worthy of respect, regardless of their life situation, age, attributes, identifications, and backgrounds.

Alison is survived and deeply missed by her mother Phyllis Brady and step-father Andrew Masters of Santa Barbara, twin sister Rachel Strieker Hedges of Santa Ynez, sister Lindsay Strieker of Solana Beach, nieces Sophia Hurley and Grace Hurley (Caleb Owens), nephew Strieker Hedges, Uncle Bill Brady,

Aunts Gwen Strieker, Carol Tozer, Tina Boradiansky, and Erena Lall, her partner Tony Lamantia, her devoted friend and kidney donor Rex Rude Saiz, many cousins throughout the US, Canada, and Africa, and friends worldwide. Alison was pre-deceased by her father Gary G. Strieker, her uncle Reid Strieker, her aunt Carolyn (Lyn) Brady, her cousinbrother Jordan Smith, and her fur baby Leshebo.

On May 20, 1975, Alison (Ali) came into the world early, along with her twin sister, in Nairobi, Kenya. She also departed early on January 10, 2026, in Santa Barbara, Ca. She died of a sudden cardiac arrest, resulting from Lupus Nephritis, 0pand three decades of interrelated medical conditions and treatments.

Contributions may be made to the Lupus Foundation, or an organization of your choice, in honor of Alison Strieker.

Alison’s East Indian godfather gave her the Hindi middle name, Priya. It means beloved, dear. And that she remains.

A Celebration of Alison Priya Strieker’s Life will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Noon, outdoors at the Santa Barbara Natural History Museum.

Manuel "Norm"

Norman Chavez 11/23/1940-05/05/2026

“Norm” was born in Santa Barbara on 11/23/40 and passed away peacefully in his hometown on 5/5/26. He was the son of Manuel Chavez, Sr., and was raised by his mother, Kathleen Ruiz, and her husband, Everett Ruiz. Norm was a devoted father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend whose warmth touched countless lives. He is survived by his children, siblings, and grandchildren.

A lifelong Santa Barbaran, Norm attended Dolores School, Catholic High School, and graduated from Santa Barbara High School. He served

in the United States Marine Corps before spending more than 40 years as a plasterer, taking pride in hard work, reliability, and always showing up for others.

Norm celebrated 38 years of sobriety on 11/3/25 and was a devoted friend of Bill W. He loved coffee, sweet treats, sports, and was known as a local celebrity at Denny’s. A faithful parishioner of Our Lady of Sorrows Church, he built lasting friendships everywhere he went.

Norm will be remembered for his kindness, humility, humor, and quiet strength. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held Friday, June 26 at 10:00am at Our Lady of Sorrows Church.

Elberta LaRae

Richardson Pate

12/11/1938-05/25/2026

Elberta LaRae Richardson Pate passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026.

Elberta was born on December 11, 1938 in Firebaugh, California to Elbert and Gladys Richardson. She grew up in Bakersfield, California and graduated valedictorian from North High School in 1956. In 1962 she moved to The Rincon and shortly after she settled in Montecito, California which would remain her home for the next 60 years.

She started golfing in the 1970’s at Montecito Country Club which became a life long passion. She and her husband, Donald Pate, instilled the game of competitive golf in their sons, John and Steve, and it became an activity that their family would bond over for the rest of their lives.

Her love of golf was rivalled by her love of travel, where she often combined the two. She and her second husband, Ed Bero, loved travelling the country watching her sons, John and Steve, play golf. She travelled all over the world with

family and friends–to China and South Africa with her friends known as “The Bag Ladies,” on a European cruise with her late husband Jack Mosely, and to Augusta, Georgia to watch Steve play in the Masters were some of her most memorable trips.

In 1994 she met Jack Mosely who she quickly fell in love with. They married in 1995. Jack had his adult children Missy Mosely Bennett and Jack Mosely, Jr. They shared a love of golf and travel and were happily married until Jack passed away in 1999.

Professionally, Elberta was a well respected Realtor in the Santa Barbara region for 50 years. She loved her business, her clients, and the camaraderie of fellow agents. She was a legend in the real estate industry.

In 2006 Elberta reconnected with Donald Davis, of Eureka, California, at their 50 year Bakersfield class reunion, and they remained close companions until her passing.

Her family loved spending holidays with her. She was known for always having a puzzle out, making the best chocolate peanut clusters, and taking Scrabble and cards very seriously. Her four grandchildren often spent New Year's Eve with her when they were younger. Celebrating at 9pm with the two younger grandkids–Matt and Taylor, and finishing the night with a Law and Order marathon with Nicole and Sarah. Her greatgrandchildren–Ella and Noah–loved exploring the main house at Casa Dorinda and running around the grounds.

She is lovingly remembered by her sons John and Steve Pate; her daughter-in-laws Susan and Sheri Pate; her step children Missy Mosely Bennett and Jack Mosely, Jr.; her four grandchildren Nicole, Sarah, Matthew, and Taylor Pate; and her two great-grandchildren Ella and Noah Roth.

Elberta will be remembered for her tenacity, grace, sense of humor, and her dedication to her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.

We want to thank Dr. Babji Mesipam, Sarah and Zaira for many years of care. We also thank Therese, Alex, Cristina and staff at Casa Dorinda for

their care and love extended to our family.

Please join us for a graveside service to be held on Wednesday, June 10th at 2:00pm. Santa Barbara Cemetery, Channel Drive, Montecito.

Ian Trenwith 03/26/1940-05/07/2026

Ian passed peacefully at home surrounded by the family and the pets he loved so deeply.

Born in Portsmouth, Hampshire England 3/26/40 during WWII gave him a lifelong appreciation for family, food and friends. He trained at Portsmouth University in the Culinary Arts, that passion let him to Canada where he met and married Diane Lamport. They celebrated 63 yrs together.

His love and talent with food took him all over the world. He was a private chef to the wealthy, owner of Jolly Brothers Catering and a teacher to the next generation of food lovers.

He did his military service in the States but lived in Canada, Spain, Bermuda, Santa Barbara and Oregon.

He embraced and valued every place he lived, finding lifelong friends and exploring the nature and history of each location. He was known for his humor, story telling and the admiration and care of nature and animals. He was loyal, trustworthy and honest to a fault. He would welcome anyone to his table and feed you until you became family. He was also my dad. My mum, Russ and I will miss him everyday:)

PARADING WITH PRIDE

Celebrations, Drag History, and Long-Lost Bars

by Callie Fausey, Christina McDermott, and Emily Vesper

Speaking to Santa Barbara’s pride organizations, one thing was clear: Visibility is now more important than ever.

June is Pride Month in the United States, commemorating the Stonewall riots 57 years ago. Back then, homosexuality was a crime in America and police around the country regularly harassed and arrested gays and lesbians and raided clubs and bars such as New York City’s Stonewall Inn. The 1969 riots erupted there to protest such a raid. For the first time, gay, lesbian, and trans patrons fought back defending their human rights. That moment marked the beginning of what was then known as the Gay Liberation Movement.

A year later, the first pride parade was held in New York, filling the streets with thousands of members of the LGBT community, their families, and friends. Since then, though the struggle was often intense and violent, much was achieved. Criminalizing laws were erased; marriages were legalized; men and women were, for the first time in U.S. history, able to proclaim their true identities increasingly without fear. In some parts of the country, including California, Pride Parades became as commonplace as St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Until recently.

Attacks on gay life have begun to spread, and under an administration that has refused to support the LGBTQ community, the rebellious spirit of Stonewall is being reignited or, perhaps, it never went away.

While this rebellion may no longer involve throwing bricks at cops, the right to live openly and with pride no longer feels like a guaranteed liberty.

Santa Barbara’s LGBTQ community has a long and robust history. Gone are the gay bars that once provided a place for lesbian and gay residents to meet and be merry. However, in their place are year-round celebrations of queer identities through pride parades, festivals, and club nights for drag performances and gatherings.

For those looking to be loud and proud, the Independent took stock of some of Santa Barbara county’s pride celebrations that happen not just in June, but throughout the year.

—Callie

Fausey

Queen Melina Felix Poinsettia at Wildcat Lounge, where she hosts Glitter Brunch

Spreading the Pride

A Roundup of Pride Festivals

by Callie Fausey

Pacific Pride Foundation

For more than 50 years, the Pacific Pride Foundation has supported the queer community in Santa Barbara County. Begun in 1976 as a Drug and Alcohol Abuse Counseling and Referral center for gay men and lesbians, it has since evolved into the foremost resource for the LGBTQ community, and for everyone living with HIV/AIDS on the Central Coast.

Over time, it has become a place for queer connection and celebration, including an annual festival in August. This year, the theme is “Out, Proud, and Unstoppable,” said Executive Director Julio C. Roman.

Last year’s theme, he said, was “Embracing Our Past and Empowering Our Future,” but as attacks on the LGBTQ community began to grow and the current administration in Washington turned away from supporting gay rights, the organization decided to celebrate their resilience. “We are unstoppable when we act collectively,” Roman said. “When our voices become waves, we move together.”

Festivities will highlight activists from all over California with written-word pieces, drag show performances, and musical showcases. Businesses and nonprofits will provide information and resources, including free STD screenings.

Historically, Pacific Pride has funded the festival on its

own, but a loss of state and federal funding has pushed them to turn to the community for support whether that’s donating money, volunteering, or lending expertise. They want to keep the festival totally free as few in California are for the individuals and families who want to celebrate.

The Pacific Pride Festival will be held at Chase Palm Park on August 22, 2026 (the group organizes it in August to not compete with neighboring city celebrations in June). Learn more about the festival and Pacific Pride’s other pride events at pacificpridefoundation.org

Santa Ynez Valley Pride

Santa Ynez Valley Pride Parade and Festival is entering its fifth year with the theme “Pride in Action.”

Lauren Lastra is board president of Santa Ynez Valley (S.Y.V.) Pride, the first and only nonprofit dedicated to the queer community in the valley. “Pride is resistance, love, joy,” she said. “Looking at it through that lens is our anchor for this year.”

Santa Ynez Valley has experienced a wave of hate crimes and anti-LGBTQ sentiments over the past few years pride flag burnings, rainbow crosswalks being painted over, and the Solvang City Council rejecting a proposal to hang rainbow banners around the town. Adding insult to injury, after rejecting the flags, a city councilmember referred to LGBTQ community members as “clowns” and “losers.”

As a result, S.Y.V. Pride has stepped up security, including partnering with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office

to make sure the event is safe. “It just takes one bad seed to make people feel unsafe,” Boardmember Kevin Cabaniss said. “The political climate is very fiery, and S.Y.V. is just one small community, but there’s a big fire burning across the nation right now.”

Festivities during S.Y.V. Pride’s parade and festival are meant to help extinguish those flames, at least locally. The community-focused, family-friendly event is completely volunteer-run, fueled by “heartfelt commitment,” Lastra said. Each year it continues to grow, connecting locals and visitors through live music, fun activities, food trucks, and vendors. Community members are also encouraged to reach out to the organization if they want to march in the parade.

“Hate is taught, and it can be untaught,” Lastra said. “But we’ve been resilient, remained community-oriented, and stayed focused on our mission: to provide a safe, supportive, and empowering home for the LGBTQ community in the Santa Ynez Valley.”

Cabaniss said he got involved in S.Y.V. Pride wishing he had something like it when he was also attending high school in a small rural community.

“I do think about those kids for whom maybe this is their first Pride, and it paves the way for them to feel like they are welcomed in the community that they grow up in,” he said.

The fifth annual Santa Ynez Valley Pride Parade & Festival returns on Saturday, June 13, in Solvang. The celebration kicks off with the parade from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. along Copenhagen Drive, followed by the festival from 12-4 p.m. at Solvang Park.

People of all ages came out to Chase Palm Park to celebrate with Pacific Pride last year.

Queer Hangs, a group at SBCC for LGBTQ+ students to hang out, had a booth at SBCC's first pride festival this year.

Buellton Mayor David Silva's float at the 2025 S.Y.V. Pride Parade

Pride on the Page

For Santa Barbara’s proud bookworms, Pride on the Page will be returning for its second year to showcase “Santa Barbara’s queer literary community,” organized by three friends: Michaela McGinnis, Patricia Fancher, and Celina Garcia.

Intending to uplift queer voices and stories, there will be a gathering of authors, poets, and storytellers, including Michelle Petty, Joshua Escobar, MT Vallarta, Solange Aguilar, and other established and young writers.

“I spend a lot of my time reading and listening to queer stories online or in print,” said Francher, who teaches writing at UC Santa Barbara. “These make me feel closer to the authors, but I still am left feeling distant from the community. I wanted to gather in person. We have so many talented authors and poets, from every walk of life. It’s been exciting to see the line up come together with so many different stories to share.”

The showcase will be held on June 11 at Seven Bar (235 W. Montecito St.) on the back patio, 6-9 p.m. The event is open to anyone age 21 and older. Donations of $5-$20 will go directly to the performers.

Santa Barbara City College Pride

Santa Barbara City College has long celebrated pride in a variety of ways such as an annual pride flag raising but this year, the school held its inaugural pride festival in April since the semester ends in June.

It was a complete success, with more than 300 attendees. Drag queens and an all-queer mariachi group from Los Angeles performed, many organizations offered information, and even “the weather understood the assignment,” said Selena Martinez, the student program advisor for SBCC’s Pride Program. With such an incredible turnout, they “absolutely want to do it again next year,” and make it “even bigger,” she said.

“A lot of what I hear from students is that they don’t know what’s happening around town, and they feel lonely, so this was an opportunity to connect them to campus groups and programs,” including a queer hangout group on campus, said Martinez.

Drag queen Melina Poinsettia, who graduated from SBCC, said performing at the first festival was a “full-circle moment.” Poinsettia was born and raised in Santa Barbara and didn’t see much LGBTQ representation growing up. “But we keep each other alive and going,” she said.

“There’s not many of us [drag queens] here, but the ones that are here, you know, we are in the community making a difference,” Poinsettia said. “We’re providing a service of joy to people, especially with this whole presidential administration and things going crazy right now in the world.” n

The world’s first LGBTQ Mariachi group, Mariachi Arco-Iris de Los Angeles, played at SBCC's inaugural pride festival this year.

Pride on the Page will be hosting its second annual showcase of Santa Barbara’s queer literary community.

Celebrating the Queens and Kings of Santa Barbara

Adynamic drag scene thrives in Santa Barbara. Queens and kings alike give us campy and artistic, silly and sexy. From ballads at brunches to death drops at club nights, the welcome and joy that drag fosters flourishes here. To help tell the story, here are just a few of the dozens of performers who shape Santa Barbara’s scene.

From Wildcat to Eos to Trivia Nights, Here’s the Tea on the Drag Scene

by Christina McDermott

From the Chameleon to the Oak Park

BellaDonna SantaBarbara’s first drag performance was at the Chameleon club in 1997, and she still has the eyelashes she wore that night to prove it.

As she was putting on the drugstore eyelashes she had just bought, the more experienced drag queens performing that night were aghast. What in the world, they asked, are those things? Then, one queen, Natasha Camille, pulled out of her bag a pair of eyelashes that BellaDonna remembers were “as big as my hands.”

But she accepted Natasha Camille’s offer and stepped out wearing those eyelashes with her long, bleached blond hair flowing (no wig required) and performed Fleetwood Mac’s “Silver Springs.” The rest is history.

BellaDonna was 30 at the time and has never forgotten how the community “welcomed me with open arms.”

A few years later, the promoter of the popular French Festival at Oak Park asked BellaDonna to host a show for the annual weekend event. It was a huge hit, and BellaDonna emceed the event for 21 years before passing the torch to her friend Miss Kitty. (The French Festival closed during the pandemic and has not reopened.)

BellaDonna has watched how, over the last 30 years, the opportunities for a drag career have changed significantly. Except for tips, she said, “we weren’t getting paid. Sometimes the tips were amazing, but it was really just working for drink tickets.” Now, BellaDonna sees queens who can make drag their occupation.

BellaDonna was performing when Santa Barbara still had gay bars. After those queer designated bars went out of business, the regular shows shifted to queer-friendly spots such as the Wildcat Lounge. BellaDonna hosted shows with Miss Kitty there until a few years before the pandemic. Queen Divinity Za, who hosts Exotic Bratz Nights there every third Sunday, said Sunday nights were (and are) Wildcat’s dedicated LGBT+ night.

“The Wildcat has always been a place that felt like home. I never felt threatened there,” BellaDonna said. “The owners, Bob Stout and Dawn Manolakos, always had our backs.”

Welcome to Wildcat

Every Sunday around 11 a.m., people pack into the Wildcat for Glitter Brunch. Founded seven years ago by two popular queens, Vivian Storm and Angel D’mon, it is a space for everyone, straight or queer, who is respectful and open.

Since arriving in Santa Barbara in 2016, Vivian Storm has become a leader in the community and a mentor to younger queens. For Vivian, leadership means building a culture of mutual support among performers and care for the audience, one she’s seen evolve over the past decade.

Vivian believes that “drag queens are mayors of their communities,” she said. “I think we have this incredible ability to read hearts in a room…. I think we have this sort of superpower, and I don’t want to use it for bad.”

In her performances, Angel D’mon moves with fluidity and ease. A professional dancer for 18 years, she started performing drag in 2019 at a Sunday night Wildcat show. But after the COVID-19 shutdown, she and Vivian Storm saw how much the scene had diminished.

“There was a point where I only felt that it was me and Vivian. I’m like, ‘Where is everyone else?’ ” she said.

In response, the pair started a drag boot camp called Glam School. They arranged makeup and sewing lessons, dance performance coaching, and photoshoot sessions. The goal was to grow the community. It worked.

Melina Felix Poinsettia was in her last semester of nursing school when she went to Glitter Brunch at Wildcat Lounge in 2022. “I saw Vivian and Angel perform, and it just clicked immediately,” she said. “I’m like, ‘I know what this is. I recognize it. It’s what I’m meant to do.’ ”

Melina attended the Glam School’s four-week program that summer and made her debut at Wildcat later that year. When Vivian decided to move out of town for a while, Angel invited Melina to help her co-host Glitter Brunch.

The club, a gay bar on the corner of Cota and Olive streets, was hosting a drag show. BellaDonna got up the courage to put together her act, but she hadn’t fully grasped just how dramatic a drag performance should be until she was getting ready backstage.

The queens of BARBARA (from left), Jaundice Joplin, Aria Cummingtonite, Linda, and Cherry Von Illa.

Queen Vivian Storm, who has been a mainstay in Santa Barbara's drag scene for a decade

BellaDonna SantaBarbara's iconic eyelashes from her first performance. She did Fleetwod Mac's “Silver Springs” at the Chameleon, a gay bar.

Around Town

Not all drag happens in nightclubs and at brunches. Take, for example, Pitch Please, a karaoke night that queen Maplé Noir Icon and her boyfriend host at Whiskey Richards every Thursday. Or, on the final Thursday of the month, around 7 p.m., you can head over to Cider Co. in Goleta for trivia, hosted by queen Aria Cummingtonite, who in her boots stands at well over 6'3".

Friday Nights at Eos

Barbara is a show (and a mannequin head) held every second Friday at Eos that queens Aria Cummingtonite, Jaundice Joplin, Linda, and Cherry Von Illa started last year. Aria Cummingtonite, who had to explain to me that Cummingtonite is a mineral, not just a dirty joke, has been performing drag since her undergraduate days. When she arrived at UC Santa Barbara for her PhD program, Maplé gave her a paid gig at the now-closed Crush Bar. After meeting Jaundice Joplin and Linda, also PhD students, the trio started a drag club at UCSB, named (aptly) Drag Club at UCSB. Queen Cherry Von Illa was its first member. In February 2025, the four performed at First Fridays, a gay pop-up bar that rotates around Santa Barbara.

God Doesn’t Need to Save the Kings (They’re Doing Fine)

Drag kings don’t generally get the media spotlight, but kings have performed in Santa Barbara for decades. BellaDonna recalls a group from the late ’90s called the Disposable Boy Toys, as well as a solo performer named Bo Flex.

Mister Frankie Sister was born and raised in Santa Barbara. He performed in New York City in the ’90s before returning to his

hometown about 10 years ago. This year, he took out his moustache and has been working to help younger kings get their start. For him, performing as a king is a way to push the limits of masculinity, either exaggerating it or blurring its lines with femininity.

A young Santa Barbara king, 19-year-old Ill Will, agrees with Frankie. His character, that he describes as having a ringmaster aesthetic, is a parody of the Great White American Male ideal.

Drag Now

Most of the performers I spoke to said Santa Barbara is largely safe and welcoming, but it comes with some pushback. Melina Poinsettia received a barrage of hateful comments on a post of her from SBCC’s Pride event, and Angel D’mon encountered protests in front of a Crafter’s Library storytime. Notably, counter-protesters vastly outnumbered protesters.

Melina said in the everyday, she receives “beautiful energy” from strangers around town. “Catch me at CVS, trying to get some hairspray before a show in full drag, and I always get complimented,” she said. “It’s important that we don’t let negativity diminish our light.”

On the national scale, drag is both commercially popular, from TV shows to themed restaurants, but also a political talking point. Tennessee and Texas moved forward with anti-drag legislation in the last six months alone.

What does it mean, that drag can be both celebrated and demonized, commercially successful and subversive? “I think drag, in and of itself, is always subversive, even if it is mainstream,” Linda said. For her, drag is both a means of self-expression and a rejection of gender norms so that regardless of how “commercially acceptable” your drag is, she said it’s still able to be attacked by people looking to reinforce gender binaries.

Vivian Storm said that by making drag a “talking point” and attacking it, people can try to eliminate the joy it brings. But the talent from the queens she sees, and the shows they put on, and the joyful spaces they create, will always outweigh the hate. n

Juneteenth with

jon boogz

SHORT FILM SCREENING, SOMATIC HEALING EXERCISES & Q&A WITH WRITER, DIRECTOR & EMMY AWARD WINNING CHOREOGRAPHER

FRIDAY JUNE 19, 2026 6:00 PM PROGRAM CENTER STAGE THEATER 7:30 - 8:30 PM RECEPTION PASEO

King Frankie Sister, who was a king in New York in the '90s and has recently started performing again in Santa Barbara (his hometown) and L.A.

PABLO GARDINALI

Gay Bars Come and Go, But the Party Continues

For years for decades, really queer folks have decried the death of the gay bar. You hear it from people of all ages: older gay men and lesbians mourning their favorite haunts and twentysomethings romanticizing a club culture they never experienced. It might be queer cliche, but it’s rooted in a welldocumented phenomenon. Across the United States and the world, gay, lesbian, and queer bars are shuttering in droves.

A Brief History of LGBT Nightlife in Santa Barbara over the Last Six Decades

by Emily Vesper

Santa Barbara is no exception. Over the past two decades, a few bars catering to the queer community have opened Crush Bar most recently but none have lasted longer than a year or two. Paddy’s in downtown Ventura is the only remaining LGBT bar in the tri-county area.

It wasn’t always this way. Downtown Santa Barbara once had everything, from cozy, lived-in dives to edgy dance clubs, but by the early 2000s, that chapter of Santa Barbara’s queer history closed.

Back in the ‘60s, men and women “in the know” would frequent the Leilani Lounge inside the old California Hotel, but before then homophobia and harassment meant LGBT people were forced to convene discreetly, leaving much of Santa Barbara’s earliest queer history absent from the archives.

The scene really took off in the ’70s. Nightlife was essentially segregated out gay men and lesbians would rarely, if ever, visit straight bars, and vice versa but the city’s gay bars operated with less secrecy and greater longevity. In fact, some of the most iconic bars that opened during this period stuck around well into the ’90s.

Even though Santa Barbara was “much smaller and sleepier than it is now,” said Charles Downs, who bartended in the late ‘70s, clubgoers would walk back and forth between Trackside, a mellow lounge next to the train station, and The Pub, a rowdier joint on Helena Street that boasted a full liquor license and dance floor. The Unicorn would host “after hours” at 2 a.m., while Trackside would open at 6 a.m. on Sundays for “Church.”

Downs described a tenuous sense of freedom. “We never had any harassment from the heterosexual community, but we were harassed by the police department,” he said. “We’re going to get this place shut down,” he remembers one telling him. And in the late ’70s, a number of homophobic hate crimes did happen in the area.

When Gina Parvex began frequenting the scene a decade later, The Unicorn was still kicking over on Cota Street,

although it had rebranded as Gold Coast. “People thought of it as a kind of a seedy bar. But to me, it was like a home away from home,” said Parvex. “You walk in this door, and it’s like freedom.”

“Gold Coast was predominantly just a bunch of lesbians,” said Parvex. “Some of them were leather, biker women, but for the most part, it was just a great meeting place…. Have fun. Meet other lesbians. Kiss some lesbians. Date a lesbian, you know?”

The ’90s brought sweeping change for the downtown with the construction of Paseo Nuevo and development in the Funk Zone. New gay bars and clubs emerged such as Hades, Chameleon, Revival, and the beloved Fathom, located on the 400 block of State Street. At one point, there were at least six so many that the Independent’s 1999 Best of Santa Barbara® awards featured a “Gay Bar” category.

Robert Mendez, a well-known promoter and manager at Wildcat Lounge who got his start as a doorman at The Pub, described the scene as “deejays from L.A., video screens everywhere, go-go boys…. It was incredible…. Just feeling hot, walking in, and seeing 300 gay people that were all there to dance and love each other.”

But the story of Santa Barbara’s gay bars is closely intertwined with the story of Santa Barbara’s urban development. Rents increased. Clubs began to close, and by the early 2000s, none remained.

“In a relatively small market like Santa Barbara, splitting the scene across multiple venues made individual bars more vulnerable,” said former city councilmember Tom Roberts, who would go clubbing at Fathom disguised in sunglasses and a muscle tee to reduce the chance of an impassioned constituent talking his ear off on the dance floor.

In the late ’90s, however, Mendez began to host gay nights at local straight bars. He rotated venues for a few years before finding a permanent home in 2003 at the Wildcat. Every Sunday night, the club turned into the Red Room, named after the club’s striking vinyl booths.

Sunday nights aren’t as busy as they used to be, Mendez said. There’s the shift toward day-drinking and wine-tasting, particularly in the highly gentrified Funk Zone, and people are drinking less, while the cost of alcohol only increases.

But to state the obvious the queer community didn’t disappear when the bars did.

“Loss can be an invitation to create something new,” said sociologist and UCSB professor Amin Ghaziani. In his recent monograph Long Live Queer Nightlife, Ghaziani argued that the closure of gay bars created the conditions for underground queer parties and club nights to flourish. These “spatially local, roving, rave-like events” are sites of subversive possibility, said Ghaziani.

In Santa Barbara, a scene of queer club nights, dance parties, and drag shows is thriving. The Instagram accounts @gaysantabarbara and @queersantabarbara broadcast event listings to their networks of followers.

UPCOMING

EVENTS

• Las Gatas Fumadas: Every Thursday, 10 p.m. at Son Y Sabor (409 State St.)

• First Friday: June 5, 8 p.m. at Press Room (15 E. Ortega St.)

• Barbara: June 12, 9 p.m. at Eos Lounge (500 Anacapa St.)

• Sunset at the Canary: June 17, 6 p.m. at the Kimpton Canary Hotel rooftop (31 W. Carrillo St.)

• Low Brow: June 24, 8 p.m. at Eos Lounge (500 Anacapa St.)

Drag show and party Barbara, hosted at Eos Lounge, has been a staple; Las Gatas Fumadas is a weekly Latinx drag show and party that debuted this month at Son Y Sabor. Another new party is Low Brow, a rave created by DJ Blasé for fans of hyperpop, electroclash, digicore, and the like. There’s Pacific Pride Foundation’s Sunset at the Canary, dance party Out and About at Seven Bar, and queer social club Birdcage, not to mention an array of one-off events. And there’s First Fridays, a “central hub” for queer nightlife that has “pretty much been at every major bar or club in Santa Barbara,” according to DJ Blasé.

DJ Blasé, known offstage as Tommy Lapidese, fell in love with Santa Barbara’s club nights and drag shows while studying at UCSB. “Having no brick-and-mortar gay bar is actually what has allowed [First Fridays], and really the gay scene as a whole, to survive,” said Lapidese. “Movement allows the queer scene to avoid being co-opted. It allows it to be a little bit ‘If you know, you know.’ ”

“You know how buildings that are earthquake-proof are designed to move with the shifting ground underneath them?” continued Lapidese. “The queer scene here is designed to move, especially when the going gets tough. It’s what queer people have done for centuries.”

That scene, Lapidese said, is only continuing to grow. He is excited by the increase in events geared toward queer people of color, trans people, and other groups that experience marginalization within the LGBT community. He loves when deejays and drag artists get weird, wacky, niche, and freaky, refusing to sanitize their performances for a straight audience. Queer nightlife in Santa Barbara will never stop changing; that’s simply its nature. The scene is full of people who are creative, resilient, and ready to leave it all behind on the dance floor. In other words, it’s earthquake-proof. n

Robert Mendez

BEST OF SANTA BARBARA ®

You will determine who deserves to be a nominee for each category by nominating your favorites online at bestof.independent.com from June 4 - July 1.

Once the nomination period is over, we will create the voting ballot based on your responses. The number of final nominees in each category will vary based on the number of nominations received in that category. Voting will be open from July 30 - August 26.

Once the voting period is over, we will tally up the winners and publish them in our annual Best of Santa Barbara® Issue hitting stands October 22 and celebrate them that night at our annual Best Fest.

* Please note, all nominations and voting will be done exclusively online. There will be no paper ballots. All questions or concerns can be directed to bestof@independent.com.

Independent Calendar

THURSDAY 6/4

6/4: Adult Summer Reading Kickoff Calling all adults and teens to pick up a Summer Reading Zine to document this summer’s reading journey with collage-making materials, check out books, make a library card, pose for glamour portraits with Cher Martinez, and enjoy coffee drinks from Café Ortega! 5-7pm. Fox Wine Co., 120 Santa Barbara St. Free. Email info@ sbplibrary.libanswers.com. tinyurl.com/SummerReading-TeenAdults

6/4: LGBTQIA+ Pride Artist Showcase Grassini Tasting room, SOUL SUCKER, and LouBud Wines invite you to sip and shop ceramic work from queer artists with complimentary tastings, discounted glasses, zine and charm-making, and music provided by DJ Blasé. 5-8pm. SOUL SUCKER, 814 State St. #38. Free. Email alex@soul-sucker.com tinyurl.com/Pride-Showcase

6/4: UCSB Media Arts & Technology End of Year Show (EoYS): re:agency Guests are invited to step into the fusion of media arts and technology to experience innovative projects, installations, and performances produced by the program’s graduate students. 6-10pm. EoYS@SBCAST, 513 Garden St. Free. Email info@mat.ucsb.edu show.mat.ucsb.edu

6/4: Speakeasy Comedy Bar Presents Daniel Lobell Enjoy a hilarious night of stand-up comedy and laughter from headliner Daniel Lobel, Guy Knoll, and MC Luis Moro. 7pm. Speakeasy Comedy Bar, 409 State St. $20. Email santabarbaralaughfestival@gmail .com sbcomedyclub.com/events

6/4: Lobero Live Presents the Sam Grisman Project Take in a night of American acoustic music from this ever-evolving acoustic collective inspired by the timeless music of Sam Grisman, son of mandolinist, composer, and producer David Grisman, who worked with legendary music collaborators such as Jerry Garcia. 7:30pm. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. GA: $45, $60; premium: $85. Call (805) 963-0761. lobero.org

6/4-6/7, 6/9-6/10: Ensemble Theatre Company Presents Every Brilliant Thing In this interactive solo show, Nicholas Mongiard-Cooper narrates as a character who tries to cope with his mother’s suicide attempt that prompts the 7-year-old to search for ways to understand and lift her depression by documenting the joys in life. The play previews on June 4 and runs through June 21. Thu., Tue. and Wed.: 7:30pm; Fri.Sat.: 8pm; Sun.: 2pm. The New Vic Theatre, 33 W. Victoria St. Pay-What-You-Can. Call (805) 965-5400. etcsb.org

FARMERS MARKET SCHEDULE

THURSDAY

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

FRIDAY

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

SATURDAY

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

SUNDAY

Goleta: Camino Real Marketplace, 10am-2pm

TUESDAY

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

WEDNESDAY

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

FISHERMAN’S MARKET

SATURDAY

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

FRIDAY 6/5

6/5: Desperado: Eagles Tribute Band This show will take you through every decade of the Eagles’ greatest hits performed by five powerhouse singers who will deliver the precision harmonies and musical craftsmanship heard on the original recordings. 7pm. The Granada Theatre, 1214 State St. $75-$95. Call (805) 899-2222. ticketing.granadasb.org/events

6/5-6/7: Novus Contemporary Ballet Presents Alice! (in Wonderland) and Other Dances This surreal reimagining of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale through the lens of contemporary ballet will follow Alice through a world of eccentric characters, shifting realities, and dreamlike encounters. A selection of original contemporary works by company artists will also be performed. Fri.-Sat.: 7pm; Sun.: 2pm. Center Stage Theater, 751 Paseo Nuevo. Call (805) 9630408. centerstagetheater.org

6/6: World Oceans Day: Free Admission at the Sea Center Meet community partners dedicated to ocean conservation and celebration, experience interactive exhibits, and learn about local ecosystems. 10am4pm. S.B. Museum of Natural History Sea Center, 211 Stearns Wharf. Free. Call (805) 962-2526. sbnature.org/calendar

6/6-6/7:

Hook’d Bar and Grill Sat.: Flannel 101, 4pm. Sun.: Nate Latta, 1pm. 116 Lakeview Dr., Cachuma Lake. Free. Call (805) 350-8351. hookdbarandgrill.com/music-on-the-water

6/4-6/8: SOhO Restaurant & Music Club Thu.: Orangepit! with Magnetize, 8pm. $12-$22. Ages 18+. Fri.: The Devereux String Quartet Presents: Intone, 7:30pm. $10-$15. Ages 21+. Sat.: BCACSB Presents: Brazilian Night with Alegria Geral Band, 8pm. $19-$25. Ages 21+. Sun.: An Evening with Doctor Wu, 7pm. $29-$32. Mon.: Brasscals & SOUL New Orleans Brass Band, 7pm. $15-$20. 1221 State St. Call (805) 9627776. sohosb.com

6/5-6/6: M.Special Brewing Co. (S.B.) Fri.: Zepliv. Sat.: Salvidoria. 634 State St. 8-10pm. Free. Call (805) 308-0050. mspecialbrewco.com

6/5-6/6: Maverick Saloon Fri.: Slo County Stumblers, 8pm. Sat.: Tex Pistols, 8:30pm. 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez. Call (805) 686-4785. Ages 21+. mavericksaloon.com/ event-calendar

6/5, 6/7: Carhartt Family Wines

Live Music Fri.: Stacked, 5pm. Sun.: Hector Hurtado, 2pm. 2939 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. Free. Call (805) 693-5100. carharttfamilywines.com/ events-calendar

6/5: Granada Theatre Desperado: Eagles Tribute Band, 7-9pm. $75-$95. 1214 State Street. Call (805) 899-2222. ticketing.granadasb.org/events

6/5-6/6: M.Special Brewing Co.

(Goleta) Fri.: Only Joking. Sat.: Peer Pressure. 6860 Cortona Dr., Ste. C, Goleta. 7-9pm. Free. Call (805) 9686500. mspecialbrewco.com

6/6-6/7: Cold Spring Tavern Sat.: Oddly Straight. Sun.: Tom Ball and Kenny Sultan. 5995 Stagecoach Rd. 1:30-4:30pm. Free. Call (805) 967-0066. coldspringtavern.com

6/6: Eos Lounge Into the Abyss: A Techno Series. 500 Anacapa St. 9pm. Free. Ages 21+. Call (805) 564-2410. eoslounge.com

6/7: Longoria Wines Live music, 3-5pm. 732 State St. Free. Email info@ longoriawine.com longoriawines.com/events

6/8: The Red Piano Church on Monday: Debbie Davies, 7:30pm. 519 State St. $5. Call (805) 358-1439. theredpiano.com

6/5: Christopher Cross Grammy Award–winning artist Christopher Cross will perform the carefully crafted songs from his debut album with hits such as “Ride Like the Wind” and “Sailing” and 2020’s album, The Complete Works, a collection of all 12 previously released CDs and one CD of singles and bonus tracks. 7:30pm. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. GA: $60-$75; premium: $130; VIP: $175. Call (805) 963-0761. lobero.org

SUNDAY 6/7

6/6: All Ages Summer Reading Kickoff Kids, families, and adults are invited to sign up for their summer reading adventure. Kids and teens can pick out a free book to keep. The S.B. Bubble Guy and Kona Ice will be keeping things cool. 11am-1:30pm. Michael Towbes Library Plaza, Central Library, 40 E. Anapamu St. Free. Call (805) 962-7653. tinyurl.com/All-Ages-SummerReading

Nate Latta

June Sip ‘n’ Share

Wednesday, June 10, 5:30-7pm La Lieff Wines, 210 Gray Ave.

Our final event of the season!

Learn more about local professional orgs while enjoying refreshments, icebreakers, sipping and sharing on a beautiful outdoor patio in the Funk Zone.

Join us for synergy and connection as you network with peer professionals – all genders welcome!

To learn more and register, scan the QR code, or visit awcsb.org .

6/6: Ice in Paradise Presents Be Our Guest On Ice Jeanne and Jinelle Productions will bring a reimagined spectacle inspired by the music of Beauty and the Beast to the ice. 6:30-7:30pm. Ice in Paradise, 6985 Santa Felicia Dr., Goleta. $20-$30. Call (805) 8791550. tinyurl.com/Beauty-Beast-Ice

6/6: S.B. Music Club Scholarship Concerts This concert will feature outstanding scholarship recipients, including vocalists, wind players, string players, and pianists. 3pm. Saint Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 4575 Auhay Dr. Free. Email concerts@SBMusicClub.org sbmusicclub.org

6/6: Trail Volunteer Day at Rattlesnake Canyon Trail The community is invited to assist with maintenance projects such as clearing overgrown brush, improving trail surfaces, maintaining water diversion features, and placing deadwood to help restore and protect the trail. Lunch will be provided. Email or call to RSVP. 8:30am-1pm. Skofield Park, 1819 Las Canoas Rd. Free. Call (805) 564-5439 or email EUllrich@SantaBarbaraCA.gov tinyurl.com/Volunteer-Trail

6/6: Carpinteria Arts & Craft Faire Shop from area artists, including featured artist Andrea Morales (jewelry), with pieces in painting, woodwork, glass, paper crafts, pottery, and more with live music by the Ukulele Jammers and the Americana Cats. 10am-4pm. Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Ctr., 865 Linden Ave., Carpinteria. Free. Email lana@carpinteriaartscenter.org carpinteriaartscenter.org/marketplace

SUNDAY 6/7

6/7: Golden Sundays: A Golden Retriever Gathering All Golden Retriever lovers and their furry friends are invited for off-leash and fenced fun, complimentary coffee, dog treats, and DIY doggy photos on the first Sunday of each month. All breeds are welcome. 10am-noon. Tucker’s Grove Park, 4800 Cathedral Oaks Rd. Free. tinyurl.com/Golden-Sundays

6/7: Card Making Event for Him Have a cup of tea as you make three male-oriented cards for a special dad or graduate. Noon-2pm. Pippin, La Arcada, 1114 State St., Ste. 24. $25. Email shelleyshollywood@gmail .com tinyurl.com/Dad-Card-Making

MONDAY 6/8

6/8: Science Pub: Investigating the Lithium Rush Join UCSB Global Studies Associate Professor Javiera Barandiarán, PhD, for a sobering examination of the history of lithium mining in the 20th century and learn why the rush to mine more lithium is unlikely to resolve climate change unless a sustainable trade is developed. 6:30-8pm. Dargan’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, 18 E. Ortega St. Free. Email kperry@sbnature2.org. sbnature.org/calendar

TUESDAY 6/9

6/9: Area Meeting: Queering Art on the Central Coast In honor of Pride Month, the June Area Meeting will host a panel discussion titled Queering Art on the Central Coast, about the responsibility of the artist in a time of genocide, the role of queer art in institutions, and more with guest moderator Lyra Ramirez Purugganan, MFA, with panelists Lucy Bell, MFA; Parker Graham, BFA; and Charlie Hodes, MFA candidate, from the UCSB Fine Arts Department. 6-8pm. Art & Soul Gallery, 1323 State St. $12. tinyurl.com/Queering-Art

WEDNESDAY 6/10

6/10: Slow Art Walkthrough & Picnic Lunch This guided experience will invite viewers into the benefits of mindfulness, curiosity-based observation, and the intersection of art and nature. Throughout the 90-minute, selfguided walkthrough, viewers will be encouraged to spend 5-15 minutes with each artwork of their choosing followed by a picnic lunch at Hans Christian Andersen Park. Advance registration is required. Walkthrough: 9am; lunch: 11am. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang. $30-$35. Call (805) 688-1082. calnatureartmuseum.org/ programs-events

6/8: Soul Brass Band and Brasscals at SOhO Listen to the sonic joy of Brasscals, S.B.’s only street brass band, followed by SOUL Brass Band, direct from New Orleans, which blends traditional street rhythms with modern soul, funk, and jazz and NOLA sound! 7pm. SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State St. $15-$20. Call (805) 9627776. sohosb.com

For a Good Cause

6/6: Fifth Annual Presidio Orchard Party (POP!) Join in an orchard of grapevines, lemon, and orange trees for a full tasting of bites and wine, interactive stations, activities, a wine pull, music from Mezcal Martini, and a raffle with proceeds going toward the work and mission of SBTHP. 4-7pm. El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, 123 E. Canon Perdido St. $100. Ages 21+. sbthp.org

6/6: The 20th Annual Los Olivos Jazz & Olive Festival The Los Olivos Rotary invites you to spend a Saturday afternoon in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, tasting wine from many local wineries, listening to world-class, professional jazz musicians, and sampling different olive-themed dishes prepared by local chefs. Funds raised will go toward Rotary Club projects. 1-4pm. Lavinia Campbell Park, 2398 Alamo Pintado Ave., Los Olivos. Ages 12 and under: $25; GA: $100. Call (820) 218-7787. tinyurl.com/Los-Olivos-Fest

6/6: Aeromedicos BBQ and Fundraiser This S.B.-based nonprofit that provides essential medical and dental services to small fishing villages invites you to enjoy food, games, music, and a silent auction to support repairs and equipment for the new clinic in San Juanico (Scorpion Bay), Baja California Sur. RSVP online. 2-6pm. 1400 Ellwood Ranch Rd., Goleta. Children ages 12 and under: $12; GA: $50-$60. Email aeromedicossb1@gmail.com. tinyurl.com/Aeromedicos-Benefit

6/6: ACLU Benefit Concert Rebecca Troon and her band (John Goux on guitar and Lisa Macker on bass) will play a benefit concert matinee, co-sponsored by the Live Oak Social Justice Ministry with all proceeds going toward the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union). 3-5pm. Live Oak Unitarian, 820 N. Fairview Ave., Goleta. $20 suggested donation. tinyurl.com/ACLU-Benefit

6/7: Green and Blue: A Coastal Celebration Join to celebrate the many accomplishments of this organization in raising critical funds in protecting this region. Enjoy gourmet food, area wine and beer, auctions, and the presentation of the 2026 awards to Valerie Olsen and UCSB’s Stop Sable Coalition. 2-5:30pm. Rancho La Patera & Stow House, 304 N. Carneros Rd., Goleta. $150. Call (805) 963-1622. environmentaldefensecenter.org/events

6/6: Momentum Dance Company Presents: The Timeless Gala This performance of ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and acrobatics from dancers ages 3-18 will capture the beauty of dance across every second, every beat, and every stage of life where movement transcends time. Noon and 5pm. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. $35-$65. Call (805) 963-0761. lobero.org

This year, the band marked their 40th anniversary with something truly special – Rings: The Acoustic Sessions, tracing the band’s musical journey with grace, depth, and hope. Don’t miss this intimate, once-in-a-lifetime fan event!

SATURDAY, JUNE 13

Led by Ray Benson, the ever-evolving group — now over 100 members strong across its history — continues its tradition of renewal with the 2025 release Riding High In Texas.

“Marsalis has tackled imposing jazz masterworks before … but at its best, his ‘Belonging’ goes deeper … It’s a performance that both honors and amplifies.” — The New York Times

FROM SALVADOR TO SANTA BARBARA

TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF BRAZILIAN ARTS IN THE SOLSTICE CELEBRATION

by Jackie Jauregui

Feathered and bedazzled dancers strut down Santa Barbara Street. Capoeira players kick and cartwheel. The drumming band behind them sustains a lively samba-reggae rhythm. These performers, led by Brazilian Cultural Arts Center of Santa Barbara (BCACSB) director Mariano Silva, are all smiles and bring the life-sustaining energy known in Brazil as “axé” to Solstice.

This June marks Silva’s 25th participation in the Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Parade, and 25 years of bringing the Afro-Brazilian arts from his hometown Salvador such as samba, capoeira, and Batucada drumming to the area. He participated in another Solstice section his first year, then decided to bring Salvador-style Carnival to Santa Barbara’s summer celebration, and opened up these annual performances for people from all backgrounds to join.

“I love that Americans are taking the time out of their day to experience what Brazil has to offer,” says Silva. “Brazilian people are notorious for being open, sharing, and giving. ‘Let’s give everyone a chance’ is the Afro-Brazilian model.”

Silva recalls that his first time leading a Solstice section in 2002 included six dancers, a small float, and a powerful speaker to carry his voice and Bahian rhythms to the crowd. In 2024, the number grew to 76 dancers, including those who rehearsed a samba routine and others doing impromptu street dance choreographies. Silva estimates 150 people will stride alongside him this year.

Longtime BCACSB student and Solstice participant Annalisa Zaccardelli has enjoyed seeing the way fellow dancers transform over the years. Though every year sees returning participants, many dancers are novices that develop confidence in their high-heeled step in the 12 weeks they learn the choreography. “We want to encourage as Mariano says in class ‘normal people to do the extraordinary.’ It’s wonderful to see people do that every year,” says Zacardelli.

Tech firm media director Filippa de Vega, 33, went from walking with her family in BCACSB’s Solstice group three years ago, when her then-5-year-old daughter started playing capoeira, to now rehearsing for her second samba performance in the parade. She remembers feeling nervous to dance in a flamboyant costume without samba experience, but changed her tune after the parade. “It was a first for me because I’m not a performer, but it was really fun,” she says. “I encourage everyone

to try it now because it’s not as intimidating as it may seem.”

The Solstice performance is one expression of the commitment Mariano Silva has made to share his culture with the community.

Widely known as Mestre Mariano, an educator and master of cultural arts, he first traveled to the United States as a dancer with Balé Folclórico da Bahia, performing on stages such as the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Soon after settling on the Central Coast in 2001, Silva began teaching capoeira and Afro-Brazilian dance to students at UCSB and local elementary schools.

Now Silva is the executive director of the nonprofit BCACSB and owner of its studio on Hollister Avenue in Goleta. They offer classes year-round, host community barbecues at their studio and present events, such as their dance company Bahia Magia’s show Roots of Brazil and Brazilian Day at De la Guerra Plaza.

has worked to make

in other ways, too. In 2022, with efforts from BCACSB’s board, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution recognizing November as Brazilian American Heritage Month. In most of the country, this is observed in September in accordance with Brazil’s independence day. But in Santa Barbara, it corresponds with Dia da Consciência Negra (Black Consciousness Day) to recognize Black liberation and the African origins of many Brazilian cultural practices.

Capoeira the martial art played at the Solstice parade for instance, started with enslaved people combining music and dance to conceal their self-defense training, in preparation for escape from brutal sugar plantations. Because his hometown of Salvador was the birthplace of the arts he teaches, Silva makes it a point to share these histories alongside the music, martial arts, and dance at his studio.

Car mechanic and São Paulo native Caio Blanco, 51, appreciates Silva’s dedication to cultural authenticity. Blanco has known Mariano Silva since settling here more than two decades ago, but only began training capoeira with his 13-year-old son in the last year. Blanco says the energy at the studio reminds him of home. “Having him share all of this with [his students] is amazing. I feel a lot closer to Brazil when I’m here.”

Resembling the capoeira and dance classes he received as a teenager in Salvador, Silva aims to teach traditions he received that go “beyond movement.”

“Old people tell stories and teach the young. I’m teaching culture, leadership and confidence,” says Silva. “Physicality dies, but tradition lives on, generation to generation.”

For more information, see bcacsb.com.

by Maggie Yates

As the towers of the World Trade Center were collapsing in 2001, the Federal Aviation Administration closed U.S. airspace, leaving pending flights grounded and forcing flights in progress to divert to airports outside the country. Come from Away, written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein and presented by PCPA, tells the story of the passengers who landed in Gander, a tiny town in Newfoundland, Canada. Gander’s population doubled when they hosted almost 7,000 passengers from around the world, banding together to create a welcoming atmosphere in a time of uncertainty.

Erik Stein plays Claude, Gander’s mayor. “It’s such an interesting thing to play, somebody who is a real person, who is still alive, but who’s not famous,” he says. “Do I dive deep ... and be authentic to the real person? Or do I use my imagination?” Stein combined both approaches to create his character, calling Claude an embodiment of all the decision-makers dealing with the situation and the spirit of the community’s generosity.

“I read somewhere that this show isn’t about September 11; it’s about September 12-16,” he says. “It’s such a wonderful community…. They’re not famous for anything; they’re just a group of people living their lives, doing their jobs, raising their families. It’s so beautiful to be part of a group of people whose first thought is not of themselves, but of someone else.”

Newfoundland features a unique Canadian accent, and the production’s dialect coach, Joel Goldes, has been with Come from Away since the Broadway run (he was also a resident artist with PCPA in the ’90s). The show’s musical score also represents the variety of communities that come together via providence, influenced not only by the classic musical theater sound but also by northern Canadian folk music.

Silva

Brazil visible

Brazilian Cultural Arts Center of Santa Barbara performers in the S.B. Solstice Parade

Brazilian Cultural Arts Center of Santa Barbara drummers in the S.B. Solstice Parade

Come from Away

OJAI MUSIC FESTIVAL: 80 IS THE NEW… 80

WORLD-RENOWNED, CONTEMPORARY-LEANING OJAI MUSIC FESTIVAL CELEBRATES 80 YEARS

by Josef Woodard

There are always good reasons to head over to the Ojai Music Festival (OMF) come early June, for avowed fans of contemporary and modern music modern as in, say, from Stravinsky’s 1913 Rite of Spring forward. More general-purpose, musically curious types are also welcome, especially on more populist programs such as the Rhiannon Giddens–directed 2023 fest.

But this year’s model, running from June 11 to 14, exerts an extra double-barreled magnetism. This year marks the festival’s milestone 80th birthday, along with the eagerly awaited return of the promethean Finn-in-America composer-conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen as music director, a deserved point of focus.

Salonen seems to be a tailor-made Ojai hero, whose fierce commitment to musical adventurism and integrity led him to quit his San Francisco Symphony post last year, when the orchestra reportedly reneged on its commitment to support contemporary and new music. Twentyplus years ago, Salonen threatened to leave his post with the L.A. Philharmonic the orchestra he helped earn its stripes as one of the world’s greatest during his 18-year tenure there if the daring Frank Gehry–designed Walt Disney Concert Hall wasn’t finally completed.

Both of his past OMF years in 1999 and 2001 have counted among the most sparkling programs in the festival’s recent history. “The tradition of the Ojai Music Festival is that there is no tradition other than that people can do things that they wouldn’t be able to do elsewhere. Ojai

invites us to dream, and it’s a place where dreams can become reality,” said Salonen.

Among the realities planned are a healthy swath of his own music, a fascinating and expanding body of work that can sometimes, unfortunately, be overshadowed by his fame as a conductor. This includes the U.S. premiere of a new piece for violin and cello and the first complete performance of his “Six Preludes for piano” (featuring Music Academy of the West faculty pianist Conor Hanick).

Other Salonen fodder here: “Arabesques for Olly,” “Homunculus,” “Lachen velernt,” and “Fog,” and Salonen as conductor on three evening concerts, with the acclaimed L.A. Phil New Music Group.

But the program covers an expansive repertoire, much of it touching on composers who have had a role in the Ojai ethos over its eight decades, including Stravinsky, Messiaen, Luciano Berio, George Crumb, Morton Feldman, György Ligeti, Schoenberg, Karlheinz Stockhausen, Iannis Xenakis, and Salonen’s Finnish comrade Magnus Lindberg. From the younger, living crop of composers, the list also features artists whose music has directly touched 805 audiences: David Lang, Jessie Montgomery, Gabriella Smith, and Anna Thorvaldsdóttir, alongside rock-world figures such as Radiohead, Jonny Greenwood, and Bryce Dessner.

Musician-wise, the list is a long and starry one, including Salonen collaborator violinist Leila Josefowicz, the Attacca Quartet, and accordionist Hanzhi Wang, who has performed a few times in Santa Barbara in recent years.

I spoke to Salonen before his first OMF year, one with a strong theme focusing on Finnish composers of his

A DELICATE SHIP EXPLORES THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ADULTHOOD AND OUR CHILDHOOD SELVES

generation, including Magnus Lindberg, whose delectably clangorous Kraft was a highlight. In their wild youth, studying at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, Salonen recalled, “We were very suspicious of people who wrote symphonies, because they were also the successful ones. My generation felt that success, as such, was very suspicious. If you were successful, you have already compromised something. Obviously, I have had to revise my ideas slightly over the years.”

At the time, Salonen was very much established in the circle of important conductors, in a mainstream sense, but with adventurous tastes. In what could still be a relevant self-reflection, he pointed out that “in my dreams, I still see myself as a part of an anti-establishment movement, which is a really naïve thought considering my position in the music world at the moment.

“But still, I find it much more stimulating to be against something rather than trying to preserve something. Of course, being a conductor, you inevitably end up becoming a preserving force in the world. I don’t mind that, because there’s an awful lot worth preserving.”

While much of the festival action takes place in the outdoor splendor of Libby Bowl, the festival does venture elsewhere in town, including free concerts at the Ojai Meadows Preserve on Saturday morning site of a memorable event last year with percussionist-composer Susie Ibarra and an early bird “Morning Meditation” on Sunday and at the Chaparral Auditorium.

In short, this year’s Ojai harvest, at 80, promises much to sink one’s senses in.

For more information about the festival, see ojaifestival.org.

by Maggie Yates

Anna Ziegler’s A Delicate Ship explores the emotional earthquakes that occur when the adult version of a person is faced with their childhood self. Presented by HappySad Theatre Company at Center Stage, the show follows a young couple, Sarah and Sam, who spend an unexpected evening with Sarah’s childhood bestie (who harbors a crush).

Director and company founder Robert Rodarte says the play deals with how memories can be inaccurate and rebuilt within the mind, leaving a person’s emotional development dependent on distorted or partial reality. “The fact that our lives can change from a single experience has always been fascinating to me,” he says, “and that is exactly what A Delicate Ship explores.”

In the play, Sarah (Riley Rodarte) is mourning the death of her father. She’s also in a relatively new relationship with Sam (Brayden Myrick), making the co-navigation of trauma clumsy and uncharted. When Nate (Lior Selve) shows up at Sarah’s door, the comfort and nostalgia of the past clashes with the excitement of working toward a potential future. The general approach, says Rodarte, is to highlight connections especially those things that people hold back from each other.

This is HappySad Theatre Company’s second show at Center Stage Theatre after debuting last winter with a compelling production of The Effect. “The characters break the fourth wall in this play,” says Rodarte, “and I think this show can really shine in the intimate setting Center Stage provides.”

A Delicate Ship runs June 12-14 at Center Stage Theater (751 Paseo Nuevo). See bit.ly/3PRdiSv

Hanzhi Wang

HappySad Theatre Company’s A Delicate Ship

Esa-Pekka Salonen

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF ART AND ACTIVISM

THE OAK GROUP’S PRESERVE AND CHERISH EXHIBIT BENEFITS THE MORE MESA PRESERVATION COALITION

by Meaghan Clark Tiernan

“As an artist, it’s our job to have a purpose. And as landscape painters, [our purpose] is to protect the land,” says Arturo Tello.

Tello is one of the founding members of The Oak Group, a collective of roughly 26 landscape artists that, for the past four decades, has combined their creativity with conservation. Their passion for painting on location catapulted them toward activism, becoming one of the first groups in the U.S. to fuse the two mediums together. “Activism is fueled by our love of the land,” says Tello.

In celebration of 40 years, The Oak Group will return in support of the More Mesa Preservation Coalition (MMPC) with the upcoming exhibit Preserve and Cherish. The fundraiser, inspired by the Carl Sagan quote “Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we’ve ever known,” will benefit the latest MMPC effort to purchase the remaining 265 acres of unprotected land sitting near Hope Ranch.

The Faulkner Gallery exhibit, which will showcase work from the majority of The Oak Group’s members, along with some special guests, is the latest in a long line of fundraising events to support MMPC the last few months.

For the past 25 years, MMPC approached protection of the land from the lens of a friendly educator, informing community members about its potential for sale and raising awareness about the environmental impact of the native species living there. When Valerie Olson first moved to the area 37 years ago, she was immediately struck by the magic of the place. “You will not believe what’s in our backyard,” she recalls telling her husband about the home they’d just purchased just two blocks from the entrance.

Her passion for the land, which today brings in thousands of visitors a year and is open to bikers, equestrians, hikers, joggers, dog walkers, and more, hasn’t wavered in nearly four decades. “More Mesa became the delight of my life,” she said. At 84, she still tries to get out to the gate every day. “It’s brought so much warmth and goodness.”

In 2025, MMPC unveiled an extensive analysis on the

recreational use and value of the land finding that more than 50 percent of guests visit the region more than once a week in hopes to garner awareness and begin fundraising support. Still, for the amount of guests who love it, very few are aware of its sale (it was listed for $65 million in April 2025) and potential for development.

The grassroots organization launched a campaign that changed the longtime narrative from protecting the land, to buying the land. That move came just as MMPC founder Olson left her post as president of the organization, and longtime Vice President Dan Gira took her place.

The evolving dynamic for MMPC came as a response to the changing landscape not literally, but figuratively. “We can’t sit back and wait,” says Gira. “More Mesa is just too important.”

In an atmosphere of weakening environmental laws and pending housing mandates, More Mesa is “sort of a natural target,” says Gira. “If the [California Coastal Act of 1976] is weakened, that could fundamentally undermine the protection of More Mesa.”

Gira is referencing the bedrock 1976 environmental law that determined California’s coast was a “distinct and valuable natural resource of vital and enduring interest.” Gira, retired from Santa Barbara County Planning and Development, who helped secure a 200-acre donation for the first phase of San Marcos Foothills Preserve, knows all too well that a quick review could dilute his organization’s environmental leverage. Additionally, the state’s mandates for high-density housing could mean that the area’s largest undeveloped, privately owned property in Goleta Valley “is a natural target,” Gira adds. With the status shaky on whether Santa Barbara’s most beloved and largest open space public land in the

area would be rezoned for housing, the group of volunteers at MMPC opted to evolve.

Now, MMPC is rallying support from every angle. The team is working with a whole host of supporters, including many Hope Ranch residents, Santa Barbara Foundation, and national organizations such as the Environmental Defense Center and Trust for Public Land, the latter well known for helping to secure Goleta’s Ellwood Mesa, Douglas Family Preserve, and Arroyo Burro Park.

In December, the group held a meeting at Rincon Brewery in Carpinteria where Assemblymember Gregg Hart honored Olson. The event, which was attended by 125 supporters, launched the first phase in a series of fundraising events, including the debut of Rincon Brewery’s Save More Mesa Blonde Ale. Since then, the calendar has been full with fundraisers including walks on-site with Supervisor Laura Capps, a Doublewide Kings fundraiser concert at the Lobero Theatre, and the upcoming Preserve and Cherish show in partnership with The Oak Group.

This is the first show The Oak Group has done to support More Mesa in 12 years. That’s not for lack of love of the land, says Tello, or a slump in activism. Over the last decade, The Oak Group has hosted fundraising events to benefit Citizens for the Carpinteria Bluffs, UC Santa Barbara North Campus Open Space, and Foothills Forever Fund a coalition between Save San Marcos Foothills, the Šmuwič Chumash, and Channel Islands Restoration raising a combined $3.2 million. Each show is a continued love letter to the land, and the work that The Oak Group labors tirelessly to support. “All of us feel privileged to have a purpose bigger than ourselves,” says Tello. “[Our work] is about expressing a love of the land, and a concern about not losing open spaces that are particularly special.” While he acknowledges change is inevitable, More Mesa has something special, something “sacred,” that’s worth the effort.

Preserve and Cherish will run through June 29 at the Faulkner Gallery at Santa Barbara Central Library (40 E. Anapamu St.) and online through July 31. The opening reception is Wednesday, June 3, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. The exhibit is free and open to the public. To learn more about The Oak Group, visit oakgroup.org. To discover more upcoming fundraising events in support of More Mesa, visit moremesa.org.

“Early Spring — More Mesa“ by Kevin Gleason, oil

“Fading Light“ by Rick Drake, oil

Magical Music of

SEISMIC ATTITUDE SHIFTS

FAULT LINES AND BOASTS CONCEPTUAL GUMPTION, AS USUAL

by Josef Woodard

LOBERO THEATER SANTA BARBARA

Saturday Evening July 11

Don’t miss this UPLIFTING and AMAZING show!!! BOOK NOW! Be Quick the last shows SOLD OUT early - www.lobero.org/whats-on or TMMOM.net LIVE ON STAGE RECREATING MANY CLASSIC HITS OF: The Temptations, The Supremes, Martha and The Vandellas, Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops, FONTELLA BASS, The Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder ....and many more MOTOWN legends.

PRESENTS: BRAZILIAN NIGHT WITH ALEGRIA GERAL BAND

Sun 6/7 7:00 pm DOCTOR WU STEELY DAN TRIBUTE

Mon 6/8 7:00 PM BRASSCALS & SOUL NEW ORLEANS BRASS BAND

Wed 6/10 7:00 PM TONY YBARRA PRESENTS: VELVET & NYLON

Thur 6/11 8:00 PM MENDELEYEV VINYL RELEASE SHOW WITH SURPRISE GUESTS

Art-watchers in Santa Barbara understand that one reliable time and place for finding more challenging, mold-breaking, and potentially trailblazing work is out at UCSB, come the end of each academic year. In the current short-run 2026 MFA Thesis Exhibition: Fault Lines, at the UCSB AD&A Museum through June 7, this year’s crop of MFA candidates come out to play and show concepts and wares, in an officially sanctioned and strictly non-commercial context.

U.S.’s warring aggression, filters into the gallery in a deceptively calm way with Iranian-born artist Nejar Farajiani’s “Weaving Home/Weaving Narratives.” Her multimedia artwork consists of a mesh of references to and examples of the weaving arts, expertly crafted by the artist “between the wars” Israel’s attacks in June of 2025 and the Trump-ed war starting this spring. Farajiani also shows her public sculpture “Shelter of Shadows,” a fragile, skeletal, hut-like dwelling set outside, overlooking the lagoon.

Fake news and the elasticized relationship with the truth, in the age of social media and AI tampering, is at the heart of internet artist Emily D’achiardi’s “Recording the State.” Her partially interactive installation asks the viewer to suss out veracity in headlines, such as “Resetting the Goal Posts: White House Announces ‘New Media Seat.’ Opens Press Room to Influencers.” Would we put it past them?

As has been the case in past years, the fruits of their MFA-timed labors are once again enticing, in multiple directions. In the curatorial text by Alida Jekabson and Kristin Yinger, a connective thematic tissue between the seven artists here is suggested through the observation that “collectively, their work asks visitors to examine their own perceptions of fault lines as not only splits but also openings in existing, constructed, and imagined realms.”

The MFA show commences in the tall-ceilinged lobby gallery on a note of local-ish color. Hope Christofferson’s body of work under the moniker “The Fantasea” blends rerouted kitsch and sea references, with ironic, decorative sculptures and tall, scrolling fabric pieces (“Kelpmaid,” “Fantasea Map”), made from “watercolor, coffee, and Pacific Ocean water.” Seaside dreaming and high-low culture surfing are abuzz here.

With her art, Tiffany Aiello deals with what she calls a “hybrid world between object, animal, and human.” This manifests itself in “Masks,” a wall of animal heads, alternately cartoonish and reality-based, on the wall, and “Pygmalion,” a headless white-furred creature splayed on the floor. The compromised creature imposes a disquieting yet weirdly whimsical presence in the gallery.

A very different presence appears in the opposite corner of the main gallery space, where KeyShawn Scott’s installation “Aisle 1,” a “deconstructed grocery store aisle,” concerns tropes of commerce and consumerism, and is flecked with commentary on racial and socioeconomic divides in the public commercial landscape.

The current Iranian crisis, at the hands of the

The museum’s back gallery has been transformed by Alexis Childress into a dimly lit domain and atmospheric installation filled with ghostly white facsimiles of cornstalks and digitally sculpted church, home, and workplace (a salon serving as both a location for work and a community gathering). It is part of the artist’s The Mid-West series, with echoes of her upbringing in the small and racially divided midwestern town of Jacksonville, Illinois.

No specific place or physical reality is tapped in another transformed gallery space, given over to the work of Vivek Karthikeyan. His piece, aptly dubbed “Dreaming of Waking Up,” is a video installation and a gallery of one’s own, awash in imagery of rushing, gushing water and subjective road footage. Motion and mediation are touchstones here, to dreamlike or waking dreamlike ends.

These emerging artists, heading out into the world and into finding their place in as-yet-undiscovered art scenes, add up to an intriguing gallery of ideas and impulses.

Once again, we can count on MFA students to shake up and wake up the local art space status quo.

“Weaving Home-Weaving Narratives“ by Nejar Farajiani

BUNNIES, BUTTERFLIES, AND BIRDS, FOR POP ART’S SAKE

N.Y.C. ARTIST HUNT SLONEM TAKES OVER A WALL AT SEIMANDI & LEPRIEUR

by Josef Woodard

From one angle, the current showing of work by New York artist Hunt Slonem at the Seimandi & Leprieur Gallery might seem like an anomaly, in a space largely dedicated to artists from or connected to the Caribbean island nation of Martinique. One feasible connection relates to a certain E-word: exotic.

A sense of exoticism, of both the literal and stereotypical kind, can be conferred on the rarely seen (on the West Coast) and far-flung roster of artists shown in the gallery since its opening last fall.

Slonem, whose compact short-run show here follows up a wellattended book signing and meet and greet in the gallery two weeks ago, brings his fine and kitschy artistic sensibilities to a highly personal visual vocabulary. In short, the man is obsessed with the imagery and the idea and archetypes of birds, butterflies and bunnies. Despite the highly stylized depiction of his menagerie of subjects, his interest translates to the real worldly resource itself, as the proud owner and keeper of a vast aviary of exotic birds, sometimes numbering up to 100 of them, at his N.Y.C. home.

Partly because of the accessibility and also the neo-Expressionist and post–pop art carbonation of his work, Slonem’s art can have an appeal reaching across the aisle of artistic and collector taste.

In this group of pieces, Slonem presents us with the three B’s bunnies, butterflies, and birds in quick sketch, childlike form, mixed and matched and looped into roughly pattern-istic echoes, an oblique nod to his old friend Andy Warhol. Backgrounds range from varied monochromatic colors to a dizzy striped texture and to a woozy patchwork of pastel colors, atop which a septet of jumbo-eared bunny icons stare us down.

In contrast to these mannered and emotionally detached projections of animal life as hip, decorative gestures, the Slonem wall also sports a smallish, semi-realistic “portrait” of one of his exotic birds. Bristling with vibrant color and sturdy, realistic form, the bird serves to proudly represent the natural world, in its more or less natural if caged state. Slonem’s trademark vision as an artist serves as a kind of spritzer for the eye and mind, as art both less and more serious than it seems on impact.

Seimandi & Leprieur Gallery is located at 33 West Anapamu Street. See seimandileprieur.com.

“New Year Chinensis“ by Hunt Slonem, oil on canvas, 24x26 in.

DJ Bubba V opens at 7PM. Shows start at 8PM.

Goleta Gets a Splash Pad

“Let us in! Let us in!” a chorus of small voices chanted on a Thursday afternoon as about 80 kids of all ages swarmed the perimeter of the brand-new splash pad at Jonny D. Wallis Neighborhood Park, impatiently waiting for the ribbon to be cut by Goleta City Mayor Paula Perotte. As the speeches went on, water started bubbling from jets embedded in the cushioned, fall-forgiving floor tiles, each time accompanied by a squeal from an eager child.

New

Watching her son Wylder Wood gallivant through the water and shoot down the playground slide, Rhiannon Mendoza said that this splash pad is an amazing addition to her neighborhood. As a preschool teacher, Mendoza is conscious of the lack of public amenities for younger age groups, and this gives Goleta kids something “to do on the weekends that doesn’t cost a membership or isn’t super far away,” she said.

Way to Play at Jonny D. Wallis Neighborhood Park

by Elaine Sanders

The 32 jets feed off a recirculated water system, which uses far less water than a swimming pool. Sanitized by filters, UV light, and chlorine, the jets are activated by two buttons located on blue posts near the entrance. They run on a 15-minute timer, saving water when the pad is not in use. The pad is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. six days a week — except Wednesdays — from Memorial Day to Labor Day. n

Color and Safety at a Busy I.V. Intersection

Mural Project Kicks Off Major Bike and Pedestrian Improvements

by Lauren Solway

“You do feel it when you are there. It’s the culmination of an incredible amount of good will and belief in the future of Isla Vista,” said Supervisor Laura Capps of new murals painted at Pardall Road and Camino Pescadero. “And not just about the art but making it a safer place, which is one of my top priorities.”

Capps was joined by UC Santa Barbara students, the Isla Vista Community Services District (IVCSD), artist John Khus, and volunteers to celebrate the new street mural with a ribbon cutting. The four murals were designed by Khus, an indigenous Chumash artist born and raised in Isla Vista.

Khus was offered a list of topics and chose two that were difficult for him, domestic violence and poverty, which impacted him during his childhood and adulthood. The other two he chose

were walking and biking a large part of his childhood in Isla Vista and aquatic biosphere, which was chosen from his cultural heritage and significance of the Channel Islands.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to actually do something to convey not only my love and appreciation for the community of Isla Vista but for the land itself,” said Khus. “It was also seeing that list of topics and being able to choose stuff that I feel is important now for people to discuss and be aware of.” n

Fiesta Presidente

Has Plans to Expand Fiesta Presidente Has Plans to Expand

New Additions Include Beer Garden and Poetry and Photography Contests

by Elaine Sanders

With the success of the first-ever Fiesta dog parade already in the rearview mirror, Old Spanish Days El Presidente Colin Hayward is full steam ahead with his plans to expand the annual festivities to reach even more of the community. In addition to all of the traditional Fiesta programming, Hayward has in store poetry and photography contests, more dance stages, and the expansion of El Mercado to include vendors on State Street and a beer garden in De la Guerra Plaza.

With support from the City of Santa Barbara, successful fundraising at La Primavera, and enthusiasm from the community after the inaugural dog parade, Hayward is feeling very positive about his plans. “I’m looking forward to bringing in new faces and new people to be part of Fiesta,” said Hayward. By expanding the tent to include more of what makes Santa Barbarans excited, “we’re doing a great job of keeping Fiesta Forever,” he said, alluding to this year’s theme.

El Mercado will now include booths on the 700 and 800 blocks of State Street, as well as on the 0 block of De la Guerra, along La Placita, and in De la Guerra Plaza. The goal is to create one big cohesive mercado, and to push out vendors who popped up on State Street last year without permits. “We had a lot of pedestrian traffic [on State Street] last year, but there was nothing for them to do,” said Hayward. “We expect a lot more business being done.” n

2026 Spirit of Fiesta Jenna Ramirez and El Presidente Colin Hayward

Kids frolick in jets embedded in cushioned tiles.

The new mural was painted by UCSB students and other volunteers.

The Race to Save Golden Rockweed

Steam wafted skyward off wet, hard-packed mud as a late-morning high tide quickly receded and thundering surf from the northwest battered teeming offshore reefs just north of Point Conception.

I was following Dr. Erica Nielsen, a coastal evolutionary ecologist, down a narrow shale gully to the beach. She was leading me to a restoration site of golden rockweed, an aquatic plant needing help in the intertidal zones of Santa Barbara County.

Scientists Cultivate Restoration Sites to Get Ahead of Climate Change

Story and Photos by Chuck Graham

Golden rockweed (Silvetia compressa) is a type of small, brown seaweed that doesn’t garner the attention of the elegant, 100-foot-tall kelp found off the Southern California coast, or the robust softball-size bull kelp found further north. Still, it’s a vital piece of the ecosystem, connecting hundreds of organisms struggling to survive in an everchanging climate.

“Rockweeds are declining in California due to a combination of climate change, extreme weather events, urbanization, and other human impacts,” said Nielsen. “Declines in golden rockweeds are largest in southern California.”

Surviving in the upper intertidal zone exposes rockweeds to strong Santa Ana winds that can quickly dry them out. Marine heat waves like the one this March also have direct negative impacts, and human trampling and pollution also contribute to the degradation. Rockweeds’ natural predators include marine snails and limpets.

Building Resilience

Restoration of rockweed is still in its infancy stages, but researchers are moving fast. Nielsen said five full-time biologists have been working for nearly two years on recovery

sites at the Dangermond Preserve near Point Conception. There are other active sites at the Channel Islands, and more cultivated out of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and UC Santa Cruz.

Nielsen also works closely with Dr. Halley Froehlich at UCSB, who runs an on-campus aquaculture lab. Donor receptacles are taken from the ends of adult rockweed to produce baby rockweed. The lab simulates the ebb and flow of tides by pumping water in and out of its tanks.

Point Conception is an ideal venue for rockweed due to warm ocean currents flowing north and cold waters moving south. Late fall to early winter is the peak fertility period.

“Rockweed is supposed to be here,” said Nielsen. “Point Conception is a great place to test this. We want to bolster populations of rockweed, so they are more resilient. We want to get ahead of climate change.”

Neilsen and her team utilize north-facing intertidal zones to reestablish rockweed sites. The baby rockweed does better

there because there’s less direct sunlight on them during low tides. And there’s more protection from north/northwest swells during the winter.

Algal Underdogs

Golden rockweed is often overlooked. It grows smaller and shorter than other kelps, and doesn’t have a long reach to easily photosynthesize. However, what it lacks in size it makes up for by providing cover for large numbers of organisms. Nielsen said a study found that more than 100 species are associated with golden rockweed, including mussels, anemones, other seaweeds, sandcastle worms, chitons, and marine snails.

It’s 29 degrees cooler on average under rockweed, even when it’s low tide and it’s exposed to the sun. “The loss of the rockweed canopy decreases the buffering habitat that is available to shade other rockweed individuals, leading to further declines,” said Neilsen. “This is why we are hoping to develop restoration tools that can bolster existing populations and create large, healthy rockweed beds that can better withstand future climatic threats.”

Once baby rockweed plants have been established in the aquaculture lab, they are transplanted in the field. The young plants are attached to epoxy discs that have been bolted into rocks at the restoration sites. Their eggs and sperm are located in small bulbs at their tips, and at low tide, they disperse. Thus far, researchers have reported a 20 percent success rate of reproduction.

Neilsen and her team are also trying another technique using a hook and zip tie. The hook is screwed into rocks, and young rockweed branches are zip tied to the hook. The branches are replaced with fresh ones in monthly intervals, and close inspections carry on for six months.

“So, it is a long wait until we will be able to say if this method is effective,” said Neilsen. “But even in the past few months we have seen positive outcomes, which is that the branches generally stay attached to the bolts, and we can see the conceptacles on them have opened, thus releasing the eggs and sperm.” n

A sprig of baby rockweed is anchored to a rock with the hope it will mature and reproduce.

Dr. Erica Nielsen and her team survey a restoration site.

Foresters Face Uphill Battle

Early-Season Roster Will Be Thin, but Talent Is on the Way

by Victor Bryant

The 2026 edition of the Santa Barbara Foresters will have plenty of star power as the summer progresses, but it could take some time for the team to gel.

About half of the projected roster is competing in the NCAA tournament, so early season mixing and matching will be a necessity.

In 2025, the Foresters were formidable in California Collegiate League play with a 23-9 record. But they ultimately fell short of their goal to win an 11th NBC World Series Championship in Wichita, Kansas. The Foresters have not won the title since 2022.

“To tell you the truth, we don’t have a lot of guys at the beginning of the season,” said longtime Foresters Manager Bill Pintard. “Half our team won’t be here for a little bit. We’re going to be thin at the beginning.”

With the lineup in flux, a couple of local prospects who are nearing graduation Max Weddle at Santa Barbara High and Mason Crang at San Marcos High will have an opportunity to compete against top-notch collegiate players.

Another local standout is SBCC’s Wylan Nelson, who is fresh off being named Southern California Community College Player of the Year after leading the Vaqueros on a deep post-season run. Nelson shined as both a pitcher and a hitter.

The Foresters will also welcome back several key returners, including pitcher Noah Waldeck of Saint Mary’s; Taylor Hoover from South Carolina, who was a position player last year but will pitch this season;

Sawyer Farr, an infielder from Texas A&M; and Zane Becker, a catcher from Texas A&M.

Rounding out the returners is Kurt Ippolito, who played for the Foresters two years ago. He hit .363 with 11 homers at Central Christian this season.

The most physically gifted player on the 2026 Foresters roster will certainly be newcomer Jorian Wilson of Texas A&M, who is 6'4" and 240 pounds with blazing speed.

Wilson hit .283 with 12 home runs in 130 at bats. Almost all of those numbers were accumulated in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play. He was named to the Freshman All-SEC team.

“He’s a taller version of Bo Jackson,” Pintard said. “He didn’t start the season with Texas A&M, but when he started playing, all of his numbers came in SEC play, which is the best conference in the nation.”

Another top player figures to be Brady Janusek, who hit .297 with 14 home runs as a freshman at Baylor.

The landscape of college baseball is changing with the transfer portal and NIL, short for Name, Image, and Likeness, new regulations that allow college athletes to monetize their personal brands. That has made roster building for summer collegiate wood-bat baseball especially challenging.

“We have to sign these guys in October, and by the time the season rolls around, some of them have to go to summer school, some of them are injured, and some of them are in the portal and have to find a school,” Pintard said. n

TAI CHI

The ever-formidable Foresters ended last season with a 23-9 record.

Foresters Manager Bill Pintard

Circular Treats

FOOD& DRINK

A Taste-Bud Time Machine

The proliferation of donut shops in town is telling donuts are here to stay, and for good reason. A fresh, hot donut is a ticket to simpler times, a handheld comfort on par with Grandma’s crocheted blanket. It’s a throwback, an affordable pleasure, a yummy a.m. or p.m. pick-me-up that makes a cup of coffee want to be the best version of itself.

The team behind Lily’s Donuts & Coffee, now open at Santa Barbara Public Market, honors that place within the psyche where donuts reside. Flavors here are fun, updated takes on retro tastes cinnamon roll, Mad Men Old Fashioned, Butter Cake Sea Salt made with premium ingredients by a French pastry chef who happens to hold a black belt in judo. The nostalgia factor at Lily’s is key, but so is the quality.

“It’s an indulgent thing, a splurge for sure, but it doesn’t have to be unnatural,” says Omar Khashen, a partner with Komron Tarkeshian, two friends since elementary school. The concept came about while waiting out the permit and building process of The Ellwood in Goleta, where Khashen is cofounder. Gary Coburn, the semiretired industry legend behind the likes of Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Chang’s, and Joe’s Crab Shack is also on board for this circular treat ride.

The project hit lightspeed when Tarkeshian met Nick Dubois on their sons’ soccer field in Newport Beach. Dubois, a classically trained chef from France, had done his time in hotel restaurants and was working as a private chef. His immediate response to the proposal was less than eager.

“Come on, a donut shop?” he recalls saying, but soon he and his family made the move up the California coast. Lily’s extraordinary flavor development is a team effort, but it’s Dubois’s attention to detail that brings ideas to the pastry shelves. “We trust each other to get the job done,”

says Dubois, who keeps recipes in his head and baked his first cake at the age of 6. He also likes playing basketball with his son and meeting his wife for lunch, perks of starting a work day well before dawn.

All ingredients for Lily’s donuts are natural no colored sprinkles here yet the hot pink glaze of the raspberry lemon and the purplish blue of the blueberry are Jimi Hendrix vivid, with mega flavor to match. Sourcing includes local farmers’ market hauls, organic dried berries from Meduri Farms, plus imported premium cocoa, nibs, and couverture or French baking chocolate from Valrhona. Organic artisan flours including a toothy, whole-wheat flour Dubois uses for the baked graham cracker topping the s’mores donut come from Central Milling in Petaluma for the levain, brioche, and cake varieties.

If the devil is in the details, Dubois’s kitchen is a wonderful, fiery hell. He’ll torch a meringue, then make an additional dry meringue crumble for added texture on the lemon meringue donut (this and Brown Butter Cake are among daily gluten-free options). He candies whole pistachios and pecans to garnish the Pistachio Cream and Carrot Cake. He draws hot espresso to flavor molded chocolate beans adorning the Espresso Martini. Swift drizzles of caramel and chocolate over toasted shredded coconut nicely replicate the look and taste of a Samoa Girl Scout cookie.

Dubois describes an early challenge he had maintaining the sourdough starter for his levain in

our coastal climate. “One day it’s so hot, then there’s fog and humidity,” he says. This chef has the confidence to keep raspberry seeds in his glossy glaze. “I like things perfect, but not too perfect,” he adds. Savory options at Lily’s make it a veritable breakfast and lunch stop. The breakfast sandwich with egg, Nueske applewood smoked bacon, New School American Cheese and sriracha aioli; caprese with heirloom tomato, mozzarella, fresh basil, and balsamic; and smoked salmon with cream cheese, capers, red onion, and fresh dill all come on toasted sourdough levain. Twelve to 15 donuts are featured daily until sold out, with new flavor rollouts coming down the line and possible collabs with neighboring Public Market vendors.

Coffee at Lily’s is a custom blend by Bonita in Ojai called “Sunrise Session” a reference to early morning surfing for cold brew, drip, and espresso drinks, or sold whole bean in cheerful and reusable packaging. Hot or iced specialty matcha and seasonal refreshers such as Butterfly Lemonade, made with color-changing butterfly pea flower, are also available.

Lily’s Donuts & Coffee is an outpost to Lily’s Donuts & Pops, the flagship location now under construction on lower State Street. In addition to dazzling donuts, look for paleta-style frozen pops, made on-site using local, organic fruit with optional chocolate, caramel, and nut dips, due late summer. Wine and beer pairings with master sommeliers are also in the works.

These days, of course, there’s plenty to worry about. But remember the anticipation and carefree joy of a favorite donut? The people at Lily’s surely do.

Lily’s Donuts & Coffee is located at the Santa Barbara Public Market, 38 W. Victoria Street. See lilysdonutsandpops.com.

Some of the specialties at Lily’s Donuts & Coffee

Lily’s Donuts & Coffee is now open for business at the Santa Barbara Public Market.

Lily’s Donuts & Coffee Now Open for Cheeky, Retro Flavors and Exalted Classics at Santa Barbara Public Market

by Victoria Woodard Harvey | Photos by Ingrid Bostrom

Sandwich Week

Arnie’s Rooftop Bar Overlooks Carpinteria’s Linden Square

Bainbridge Island Hospitality Veteran Arnie Sturham Pairs Drinks with Good Vibes and Great Views

FOOD & DRINK K

nowing only that he was relatively new to town, appeared to have some money to play with, and decided to name a bar after himself, I made some initial assumptions about Arnie Sturham namely, that he’d gotten rich in tech or finance and figured it might be fun to run his own joint, without much concern for the bottom line. (My apologies, as this happens here regularly.)

But after meeting the founder of Arnie’s Rooftop Bar and spending about three hours with him over multiple cocktails one recent evening on his perch above Carpinteria’s Linden Square, I can happily report that I was totally wrong.

Sturham, it turns out, is a hospitality veteran, having run a popular bar/restaurant/live music venue called the Treehouse Café on Washington’s Bainbridge Island for decades. He sold the business two years ago and moved to Santa Barbara, seeking a new start both personally and professionally, living not in a mansion but in a condo above the Public Market.

The opportunity to pursue a new venture came mostly by chance an acquaintance at the gym mentioned the vacant bar just built atop Linden Square, and Sturham’s experience recognized so much potential for the space, which he was able to finish to his liking. As for the name, it was more about practicality than ego.

“Everyone referred to the Treehouse Café as Arnie’s,” he said of his Bainbridge spot. “I’m going to cut to the chase on this one.”

But Sturham isn’t relying solely on those factors to succeed. He’s developing a seasonally shifting cocktail menu and cultivating a welcome-to-all vibe to make this bar an attraction all its own. “You can come in here with a bathing suit and sandy feet, or you can be fancy,” said Sturham, whose only preferred clientele is “anyone over 21.”

The drinks program is the domain of Deckers exec turned cocktail caterer Trina Armitage, another Washington state transplant who met Sturham because he was wearing a Seahawks jersey watching football in the Public Market. “Most of my friends I’ve met by not cooking and going down to the Public Market,” he laughed.

Armitage crafted a range of margaritas including the brilliantly creamy and Carpperfect Avocado Grove and eight different signature cocktails, such as the Rosemary Grapefruit Negroni and Thyme & Tide Old Fashioned. “I’m all about experience,” said Armitage, whose cocktail company is called The Petite Fleet. “I just want them to look beautiful and taste delicious.”

Every drink can be made into a nonalcoholic version, which are very popular even if they are similar in price. “We’re doing more than we thought we would,” said Sturham.

That sort of friendly regularity should happen here too. Arnie’s Rooftop benefits from nearly wraparound ocean and mountain views, a centralized Carp location, and the buzzing trio of restaurants on the bottom floor, where Corazón, Third Window, and Tina’s the little sister of Montecito’s Bettina instantly attracted steady crowds upon opening last year.

He really doesn’t care what you order, where you sit, or whether you come for live music in the evenings or to enjoy the sea breeze in the early afternoon. There’s a wide selection of regional wine on the list, a rotating cast of beers including the humble domestic cans and TVs to watch your favorite team.

Explained Sturham, “It’s just a casual place to gather.”

Arnie’s Rooftop Bar, 778 Linden Ave., Carpinteria; (805) 5665394; arniesrooftopbar.com

PHOTOS BY INGRID BOSTROM

Drinks at Arnie's Rooftop Bar

Owner Arnie Sturham with bar manager Trina Armitage

Walk Your Laugh Off

Santa Barbara, put on your walking shoes. Bear Cave Comedy has launched two new walking tours around town that combine great food, great locations, and great comedy.

Haha’s and Tapas takes guests around local breweries, wineries, and eateries downtown, while Funny in the Funk is a chance to walk through the lively old urban wine trail. In April 2026, a guest wrote of Bearman: “She completely changed my opinion of Santa Barbara. Well done!”

Get the history of The Granada Theatre while noshing on waffles from Goodland Waffles & Melts, or walk through El Presidio de Santa Bárbara while tipsy from a glass or two from Grassini Wines.

Don’t just expect food and drink, either. These walking experiences put a spin on the traditional tour combining popular sites with live entertainment. Fans love how experiential and immersive the two-hour tours can be guests are encouraged to get up close and personal to some iconic spots, like walking to the tippy-top of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Clock Tower. “We really want them to feel part of Santa Barbara,” says Samantha Bearman, owner and founder of Bear Cave Comedy. So, while you’re getting exposed to all the wonderful flavors and terroir of the region through food and drink, you’re also exposed to landmark buildings, art, and history all while laughing.

Bear

Cave Comedy Has Walking Tours Led by Comedians That Combine History, Cuisine, and Culture with Comedy

by Meaghan Clark Tiernan

Each host is a comedian, drag queen, or drag king who puts wonderfully unique and hilarious spins on the typical tourist hotspots in town. “[Comedians] are getting a chance to directly connect with someone who can become a future fan,” says Bearman, a Santa Barbara native. Plus, “you’re making that person-to-person connection while getting in your steps.”

These walking tours are the latest expansion from Samantha Bearman’s Bear Cave Comedy, an organization she started in the pandemic as a response to so mauch closure and uncertainty. Bearman, a behavioral wellness and alcohol and drug rehab specialist, had been side hustling as a standup comedian for years before 2020. When the world shut down and her job in healthcare left her furloughed, she opted to go all in on comedy.

In the beginning, it looked like a series of virtual shows called “Comedians in the Kitchen,” where a chef and comedian taught groups to cook using simple tools and staple ingredients in about an hour. She brought the series to universities such as Standard and San Diego State, but she craved even more.

“The more flexible you are, the greater the chance for longevity,” she told me recently. That’s true of any business, but especially one in the entertainment industry, where Bearman herself often felt unseen and underrepresented. “When I [went] to shows, I never saw myself repre-

sented,” she says. A response to the overwhelming misogyny that many female comedians face in an industry dominated by men, Bear Cave Comedy didn’t wait for approval or funding finding buy-ins from local businesses, thinking of new ways to reinvent the business, and exposing more people to local comedians always anchored in the goal of getting underrepresented voices heard.

Her company is creating more opportunities for those underrepresented with tours offered every day of the week, sometimes multiple times a day, comedians are enjoying increased exposure while working on their craft. In a sea of gig workers in a challenging economy, this is no easy feat Bear Cave Comedy is doing it beautifully.

The team at Deep Sea Conway Family Wines on Santa Barbara Harbor were the first business to come onboard, and they became a catalyst for the business. Now she’s worked as far south as Ventura and north as Lompoc on trivia nights, comedy shows, stand-up sessions, and more. Her group regularly puts on “Comedy Is a Lucky Mic Trivia Club” at Uptown Lounge, hosts trivia “(for people who suck at trivia)” at Buddy’s Wine Bar in Ventura, and “Bingo for Baddies and Dance Party” with DJ Haley of the Hayfield on Thursdays at Seven Bar. They even developed a comedy camp, aptly named Bear Club Comedy Camp, in partnership with Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation, that promotes confidence and comedy in children ages 9 to 13.

“I feel like I’ve fallen back in love with Santa Barbara,” says Bearman. “I love being a tourist in your own city.”

Everyone is welcome on tours, which are wheelchair accessible and dog friendly. Nonalcoholic options are provided at every spot. Tours typically last two hours, and groups range in size between two to 12 people.

FOOD & DRINK

Comedian Sam Bearman (center) leading the Haha’s and Tapas food tour

COURTESY

FUND FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE TODAY

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

Christina McDermott

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

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

Dining in the Dirt

Outstanding in the Field Returns to Ojai Roots on June 24 with Chef Diego Moya of Little Mountain

by Meaghan Clark Tiernan

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again communal dining is something we all need right now. With phones aside and strangers as neighbors, there’s a growing hunger for community that’s anything but artificial. It’s funny to think about, especially from someone who nearly a decade ago, as a young food writer, went on public television promoting a restaurant that hid chefs and servers from patrons, but the more we tend to rely on artificial intelligence, the more we crave intelligent conversation.

Which is likely why, after more than two decades, Outstanding in the Field is still as elusive a ticket as any in town. The one-night-only event is a nostalgia kick for the growing population of burnouts and nonnamaxxers; a deeply renewing experience for food aficionados that seek connection and experiences just as much as they seek excellent cuisine.

“We have a simple goal,” says Outstanding in the Field founder Jim Denevan, “bring people to the land.” Outstanding in the Field’s story, for anyone with a preference for fine dining prices and remarkable one-of-a-kind experiences, is notably unchanged. Since 1999, they have continued to emphasize the importance of connecting guests to farmers, nature, and each other in their “roving” dinner series. Guests are invited to farms, where local chefs serenade the palate with local flavors, all on a spectacularly long, Instagram-perfect table through a rolling hillside. The venues rarely overlap, nor do the chefs, but the feeling of being together in a space, a community is omnipresent.

Whiskey ‘N Rye Coming to Goleta

To that end, the upcoming California tour —and Ojai Roots event is remarkably similar to the one Matt Kettmann attended in 2024 (see bit.ly/4o3J1MV). The diners look different perhaps, as do the chefs and partners, but the lived experience is familiar. Each city that’s had the lucky opportunity to host the traveling city managers, furniture, and staff who attend each event are often celebrating the work of the farm and guest chef where the pop-up happens, rather than the organization itself. It’s perhaps why some returning patrons label themselves “Fieldheads” frequent Outstanding in the Field guests who travel the country alongside these dining rooms without walls to celebrate the food.

This “passion project” has truly become a phenomenon since Denevan first began asking family and friends to attend his dinners. What is surprising is perhaps that growth has remained relatively organic, much like the farms they work with for their series. More often, invitees are told about upcoming Outstanding in the Field events through friends and family.

CMO Katie McMurtry acknowledges that the standard $390 ticket price is out of reach for many; their intention behind every event is “to offer guests experiences,” she says. “It’s not just a dinner; it’s a moment to connect, not only at the table.” With farm tours, wine pourings, and passed plates, guests are invited to more than just a dinner inside a restaurant.

This June, Ojai Roots’ property overlooking Lake Casitas will host its second Outstanding in the Field in partnership with Little Mountain chef Diego Moya. The menu will showcase the Montecito’s chef penchant for seasonal, veggie-forward cuisine with some of the working farm’s leafy greens, greenhouse-grown tomatoes, exotic fruits, and even their estate extra-virgin olive oil.

Get familiar with the dirt, soak up the vibes, and dine like a king on June 24 at Ojai Roots.

For more information on Outstanding in the Field, and to purchase tickets, visit outstandinginthefield .com.

Last April, it was first reported here that a BBQ restaurant is coming to Camino Real Marketplace next door to Jane, taking over the long-empty 6920 Marketplace Drive in Goleta, which is the former home of Vicenta’s, Pascucci Goleta, Holdren’s Grill, Holdren’s Steaks & Seafood, Zaffiro, and Chevy’s Fresh Mex.

I have confirmed that the BBQ eatery will be Whiskey ‘N Rye Smokehouse. Arriving in January 2027, this will be Whiskey ‘N Rye’s second fullservice restaurant. Their first location is at 442 Atterdag Road in Solvang. A smaller offshoot of the eatery named Que West Coast BBQ opened last December in the Santa Barbara Public Market.

“The Whiskey ‘N Rye flag ship location has been a long-held vision for our team, and we couldn’t be more excited to continue to expand throughout the Cen tral Coast of Califor nia,” says Don Conner, CEO and strategist of Whiskey ‘N Rye. “This new location represents the next evolution of Whiskey ‘N Rye as a pre mier smokehouse destination with a best-in-class hospitality and one of California’s most compelling whiskey programs.”

Pizzeria & Deli, 915 Linden Ave., Carpinteria

April 2026: Kool Runninz S.B., 409 State St.; Yona Redz, 1230 State St.; Subway, 1940 Cliff Dr.; Home Plate Grill, 7398 Calle Real, Goleta

March 2026: Old Town Coffee, 955 Embarcadero del Mar, Isla Vista; La Cantina, 199 South Turnpike Rd.; Rincon Brewery, 205 Santa Barbara St. February 2026: Bluewater Grill, 15 E. Cabrillo Blvd.; Los Altos, 318 N. Milpas St.; Food Liaison, 1033 Casitas Pass Rd., Carpinteria

January 2026: Santa Barbara Food Connection, 900 N. Milpas St.; Yetz’s Deli, 901 Embarcadero del Mar, Isla Vista

December 2025: Anchor Rose, 113 Harbor Wy.; Café La Fonda, 129 E. Anapamu St.; Santa Playa Mariscos, 1230 State St.; Bar Lou, 1198 Coast Village Rd.; Himalayan Kitchen, 431 State St.; L’antica Pizzeria da Michele, 1031 State St.

November 2025: Chop Chinese Food, 966 Embarcadero del Mar, Isla Vista

October 2025: Carpinteria Kitchen and Grocery, 4945 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria; Tondi Gelato, 723 State St.; Goodland BBQ, 5725 Hollister Ave., Goleta; Wingman Rodeo, 233 W. Montecito St.

The Camino Real Marketplace eatery is set to host curated whiskey tastings, distillery spotlight events, limited-release bottle experiences, educational whiskey programming, and hospitality events. Visit whiskeynrye.com

RESTAURANT CLOSINGS: Here is a summary of eatery closings that The Restaurant Guy wrote about recently: May 2026: Kyle’s Kitchen, 7000 Hollister Ave., Goleta (moving down the street next to Target); Nutbelly

Dickson’s

September 2025: Sizzling Lunch, 6533 Trigo Rd., Isla Vista; Mesa Burger, 7010 Marketplace Dr., Goleta; Madam Lu, 3524 State St.; White Caps Beach Club, 120 E. Yanonali St.

August 2025: Mojo Tea House, 6530 Seville Rd., Isla Vista

July 2025: Beast Taqueria, 634 State St.; Namaste Indian Restaurant, 1218 State St.; Shintori Sushi, 3001 State St.

June 2025: The Bistro at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, 8301 Hollister Ave., Goleta; IHOP, 1114 Casitas Pass Rd., Carpinteria; Soul Bites, 423 State St.; Starbucks, 1235 State St.; Three Monkeys, 38 W. Victoria St.

Outstanding in the Field event at Ojai Roots

CAMINO REAL BBQ: Whiskey ‘N Rye Smokehouse is planning a January 2027 opening at Camino Real Marketplace, bringing its Central Coast barbecue concept and whiskey-focused hospitality program to the long-vacant location.

JOHN DICKSON

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY by

Rob Breszny

ARIES

WEEK OF JUNE 4

LIBRA

Welcome Isla Vista

(Mar. 21-Apr. 19): You are often the best possible remedy for stale, unoriginal thinking that’s festering in your vicinity. And you are especially so these days. Others might have the gall to disrupt the deadening status quo, but you have the charm to do it without scorching every bridge and laying waste to the land. So, I invite you to step into the role of cheerful troublemaker. Unleash your iconoclastic sparks with the intention of making life friskier and more imaginative, not more tangled and irritating.

TAURUS

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Libra psychologist Carol Dweck distinguishes between fixed mindsets (“I’m not smart enough”) and growth mindsets (“I can become smarter”). When you have a fixed mindset, obstacles weigh you down. With a growth mindset, they motivate you to develop. What determines your trajectory isn’t your current skill level but how you relate to your edge. With this in mind, Libra, I invite you to monitor your self-talk as you encounter challenges. Are you prone to thinking that limitations are permanent, or do you see them as temporary states you can use as opportunities? You now have a good chance to instill the latter as a root habit.

SCORPIO

(Apr. 20-May 20): In many farming cultures, including parts of India, growers speak or sing to their crops as they walk through the fields. It’s a gesture of personal care that mirrors growing scientific interest in how plants respond to sound and vibration. Some studies suggest that plants exposed to sustained speech and song may grow more vigorously. Your assignment in the coming weeks, Taurus, is to speak to the growing things in your life with similar devotion. Talk to your projects. Sing to your relationships. Tell jokes to your dreams. The universe is extra responsive to your sweet voice.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): Neurologist Oliver Sacks said, “I am haunted by the density of experience.” He meant that every moment contains far more richness than we can fully register or remember. This observation will be especially relevant for you in the coming weeks. Your mind (and heart!) will be flooded with an abundance of stimuli, ideas, feelings, and impressions. It might initially feel overwhelming, but will ultimately be a boon especially if you prepare yourself for the intensity and abundance. Imagine yourself standing next to a fountain and feeling cheerful about getting soaked.

CANCER

(June 21-July 22): You have superpowers that hardened hearts and tough guys can’t fathom. Receptivity is a key part of your genius, for example. Emotional fluency is at the root of your intelligence. Your ability to feel so much and so deeply makes you dangerous to status quos managed by people who overthink everything. Wait! There’s more. You can nurture without smothering and protect without imprisoning. You wield the powers of memory without being enslaved by nostalgia. You make home a verb, not a noun, as you build shelter for yourself and your tribe. I hope you will express these gorgeous talents to the max in the coming weeks and months.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22): An astrologer rooted in older traditions might claim that now is an ideal time to promote your personal agenda through sly, gossipy maneuvering. But since I am devoted to building a new culture grounded in compassionate values that nourish the soul, my message is different. I’m pleased to tell you that the coming weeks will be a potent phase to engage in elevating gossip that serves the greater good, to celebrate unsung heroes, and to call attention to everything that is thriving. For practical dreamers like you and me, carelessly speaking ill of others undermines our own aspirations. One of the most effective ways to expand our own possibilities is to use the power of language to boost other people’s chances for joy and success.

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): What’s something you wish you could change about yourself? Is it a trait, pattern, fear, or story about your body? And what exactly tells you that this can never change? Is it loyalty to old expectations or a rotting prophecy someone laid on you? Consider the possibility that maybe the “can’t” is really a “won’t,” or a “don’t know how yet,” or “I’m afraid of who I’d be without this.” Then imagine that you don’t have to transform this thing instantly, but, for starters, need only shift it by 10 percent in the direction of mercy and freedom. What small, specific action would generate that 10 percent?

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): What’s your most vital relationship? I dare you to surprise each other in the coming weeks. Refresh your bond with playful experimentation. Here are adventures you two could explore: (1) Take a walk together with no destination in mind, letting curiosity guide you. Talk about the paths you have not yet taken in life but might like to. (2) Describe the most beautiful future you can imagine for each other. Share practical steps you could take to make these scenarios happen. (3) Choose a food treat you both love, speak a blessing over it, then eat it slowly together as you name what you are most grateful for in your connection.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Chess masters and accomplished musicians practice differently from amateurs. They focus most intensely on their weak points, less so on rehearsing what they already do well. It’s uncomfortable to confront inadequacy, but they’re better for it. In my astrological opinion, Capricorn, you should specialize in a similar courage during the coming weeks. I invite you to direct your generous attention toward your shakiest skills and most uncertain territories. Glorious growth will happen at the edge of your competence.

AQUARIUS

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The ancient Library of Alexandria contained more than half a million scrolls. If you devoted eight hours a day to reading, you could finish about 5,000 books over the course of your life. The librarians back then knew they would never read all the texts they managed and protected. Their job wasn’t to consume all knowledge but to be stewards of abundance. They’re good role models for you, Virgo. The wonderful fact is that you don’t have to master every single thing that attracts your attention. Your far more relaxing task is to curate with care and wisdom. Your growing edge is to know what to preserve and what to release. One of your noblest projects is to commune pleasurably with the intriguing mysteries that life brings you, not obsess on them.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Be more like a lightning storm over a green meadow and less like a porch light attracting moths. Be more like a spiritual riddle in an ecstatic poem and less like a slogan printed on a T-shirt. Be more like a Miles Davis improvisation and less like a tune played note for note from the sheet music for a formulaic pop song. Can you stretch yourself into more fertile wildness, Aquarius? Will you expand your future with adventures that thrill your imagination? I believe you can and should. For bonus magic, be more like a dream of wandering in a rowdy paradise and less like the old version of yourself. Trust the frontier signals that make your pulse quicken, and speak less about the obvious truths that make everyone nod in agreement.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-Mar. 20): Are you ready to assess the state of your emotional pain? Every few years, I invite you to take stock. I ask you to reflect on how well you’ve been cultivating meaningful stress while avoiding useless pain and misery. So, how’s your progress since our last check-in? Have you improved at sidestepping dull torments you’ve relived a thousand times? Are you less vulnerable to being wounded by ignorant or thoughtless people? Can you more swiftly shake off the sting of minor troubles? Most importantly, are you increasingly magnetized to the intriguing dilemmas that challenge you to grow wiser and more resourceful?

SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT

PROFESSIONAL

A&L PATRON EXPERIENCE

Under the direction of the Manager of Ticketing Operations & Patron Services, the Patron Experience Manager is a key leader in shaping the patron experience, with a particular focus on providing & “white‑glove” concierge service that transforms standard ticketing into a high‑touch membership benefit. Responsibilities include VIP ticket concierge services, leading front‑of‑house operations and event support to ensure an exceptional, seamless, and highly personalized experience for patrons, donors, and community guests. A central component of this role is overseeing the organization’s ticket concierge function—serving as a primary point of contact for high‑level patrons, subscribers, donors, and special guests requiring tailored ticketing support. This includes managing complex ticket requests, premium seating coordination, subscription adjustments, VIP access, and resolving sensitive service matters with discretion and care. The Manager works closely with the ticketing and development teams to facilitate priority access, monitor inventory for strategic seating assignments, and ensure that patron preferences and giving history are thoughtfully considered in service delivery. This role helps translate the organization’s concierge‑level service standards into practices that strengthen relationships with the broader audience and encourage repeat engagement. This position requires an in‑depth knowledge of Tessitura, A&L’s ticketing system, so that they can also support advanced ticket needs, data retrieval and list management. In addition, the Patron Experience Manager oversees all public‑facing front‑of‑house event logistics, supervising front‑of‑house personnel, including student staff and volunteers. Responsibilities include hiring, training, scheduling, and performance oversight to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and service. Working collaboratively with ticketing, development, production, and programming teams, this position ensures that each performance and special event reflects the organization’s mission, values, and commitment to excellence while strengthening long‑term patron relationships.

Reqs: Bachelor’s degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/ training; 4 ‑ 6 yrs Experience managing FOH and ticketing operations for a performance or theatrical venue and providing support for public events; 4 ‑ 6 yrs Experience providing support for public events; Willingness and ability to work evenings and weekends; Basic knowledge of campus mission, vision, goals, and objectives, with the ability to apply this understanding in supporting live event production operations.

Notes: Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/Budgeted

Salary Range: $71,600 to $88,550/yr.

Full Salary Range: $71,600

by law. Open until filled. Apply online at https://jobs. ucsb.edu, Job # 86348.

CONCUR BUSINESS SYSTEMS ANALYST CONTROLLER/BUSINESS & FINANCIAL SERVICES

Under the direction of the Business Systems Manager 1, the Concur Business Systems Analyst provides high‑level operational support for Business and Financial Services (BFS). This role focuses on the continuous optimization of business processes and the resolution of complex system issues through ongoing analysis of user needs and system performance. The position serves as the primary lead for the long‑term maintenance and enhancement of UCSB’s SAP Concur Travel and Expense Management System. A critical component of this role is maintaining and monitoring the integrations between Concur and Oracle Financials Cloud to ensure seamless data flow and financial accuracy. The analyst documents evolving business processes, proposes system improvements, and manages the lifecycle of system changes—from writing functional design documents to executing test scripts. Furthermore, this position ensures business continuity and develops sophisticated reporting tools for campus stakeholders while serving as the primary backup for the Jaggaer/PTP/TaxLead. Reqs: Bachelor’s degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training; 1‑3 yrs Experience analyzing moderately complex business processes and problems; 1‑3 yrs Experience developing user reference materials and trainings. Notes: Satisfactory criminal history background check. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employee sponsorship. Hiring/Budgeted Salary Range: $34.29 ‑ $40.97/hr. Full Salary Range: $34.29 ‑ $61.02/hr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open until filled. Apply online at https://jobs. ucsb.edu, Job # 86272.

DISABILITY ACCOMMODATIONS COORDINATOR

RESIDENTIAL & COMMUNITY LIVING

Reporting to the Assistant Director for University Housing Services, the UCHS Disability Accommodations Coordinator is responsible for assessing, coordinating, and implementing disability‑related accommodations in campus housing and associated services, ensuring that campus residents with disabilities receive equitable access to campus housing and associated services in

compliance with University, State, and Federal disability guidelines. Reqs: Required Advanced degree in Special Education, Education, Counseling or combination of an advanced degree and related experience and/or equivalent training or experience; Professional experience in post‑secondary settings with students who have disabilities; Working knowledge of support services and accommodation methods, preferably in the area of housing or other auxiliary services; Establishing rapport and gaining the trust of others. Skill in working with support staff; Ability to organize and teach workshops and support groups to assist students with disabilities to develop personal understanding about disability‑related issues; Skill in negotiating, mediation and conflict resolution; exchanging ideas and opinions with others to formulate policies and programs and arrive jointly at conclusions and resolutions; Demonstrated knowledge of policies and procedures on‑campus, especially those governing student housing, transportation and access for people with disabilities; Skill in communicating effectively orally and in writing to obtain and convey information; Interpersonal skills to interact sensitively with students (with various disabilities and from diverse backgrounds) and with campus colleagues, governmental officials and community representatives; Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with other staff members, subordinates and management; Ability to assist in general office functions when needed. Notes: This position is not eligible for for Visa Sponsorship; UCSB Campus Security Authority under Clery Act; Satisfactory criminal history background check; UCSB is a Tobacco‑Free environment. Hiring/ Budgeted Salary Range: $69,500 to $96,500/yr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open Until Filled. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 86554.

GROUNDS EQUIPMENT OPERATOR FACM

(FACILITIES MANAGEMENT)

Under supervision, operates specialized medium to heavy power grounds and related equipment in the maintenance and operation of the Campus Grounds, road and bikeway systems. Reqs: Knowledge of safe operation procedures for medium and heavy grounds equipment, including mowers, tractors, sweepers, dump trucks, and landscaping attachments; Knowledge of turf and landscape maintenance practices such as mowing, edging, aerating, fertilizing, irrigation support, and debris removal; Knowledge of preventative maintenance procedures for grounds equipment, including oil changes, lubrication, belt inspection, and fluid replacement; Knowledge of workplace safety standards, including PPE use, hazard awareness, and safe handling of tools and machinery; Skilled in operating ride‑on mowers, tractors,

Reaching 68,000 Readers Each Week

turf sweepers, blowers, and other landscaping equipment efficiently and safely; Skilled in performing routine grounds maintenance while maintaining high‑quality appearance standards; Skilled in diagnosing minor mechanical issues and completing basic equipment repairs and maintenance; Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and complete assignments independently; Skilled in time management and prioritizing tasks in a fast‑paced outdoor work environment; Ability to communicate professionally with supervisors, coworkers, students, and the public; Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding labor for extended periods; Ability to maintain awareness of surroundings while operating equipment near pedestrians, buildings, and roadways; Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a grounds or facilities team; Ability to maintain campus grounds, athletic fields, roadways, and landscaped areas to university standards; Ability to safely lift, carry, and move equipment and landscaping materials as required; Preferred High School Diploma and 1‑3 yrs Experience in operating landscape equipment, specifically operating heavy equipment. Notes: Must speak English to communicate with the public; Required to hold a valid driver’s license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies and procedures, and/ or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program; Satisfactory criminal history background check; Direct responsibility for the care, safety and security of humans or animals; or the safety and security of personal or University property; Responsibility for operating commercial vehicles, machinery or toxic systems that could cause accidental death, injury or health problems. Hiring/Budgeted Range:

$26.22 ‑ $28.90/hr. Full Salary Range: $21.88 to $30.08/hr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open Until Filled. Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 86346.

PROTOTYPING ENGINEER

ELECTRICAL & COMPUTER ENGINEER

The Protofab Packaging Engineer supports operation, development, and growth of the OASIS advanced packaging and prototyping facility (Protofab). The position provides technical expertise in microelectronics, photonics, and optoelectronic device packaging, enabling researchers and external users to translate device concepts into functional packaged prototypes. Responsibilities include process development, hands‑on operation of advanced packaging equipment, user support and training, equipment maintenance, documentation, and continuous improvement of facility capabilities. Reqs: Bachelor’s Degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/ training; 1‑3 yrs Semiconductor packaging, microfabrication, device prototyping, or closely related

engineering environment; Knowledge of engineering principles and methods for prototype development and process optimization; Ability to independently troubleshoot tools, processes, and assembly challenges; Experience developing SOPs, recipes, training materials, and technical documentation; Strong written and verbal communication skills with technical and non‑technical users; Ability to train users and communicate safe operating practices; Strong organizational skills with ability to prioritize multiple projects; Collaborative mindset with faculty, students, startups, vendors, and industry partners; Familiarity with laboratory safety, hazardous materials handling, ESD controls, and quality systems. Notes: Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/Budgeted Salary Range: $100,000‑$130,000/yr. Full Salary Range: $85,400‑$156,800/yr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Application review begins 06/15/2026. Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 86485.

SR. PARKING REPRESENTATIVE PARK (PARKING OFFICE)

Enforces University parking regulations by issuing citations and courtesy warnings to vehicles illegally parked. Identifies vehicles to be “booted” and processes them according to California Vehicle Code. Keeps current on campus events and their locations. Directs

traffic and escort vehicles including semi‑trucks and buses. Informs supervisor of problems as they arise. Provides parking instructions and gives directions. Reqs: High School Diploma; Demonstrated exceptional customer service by providing and delivering professional, helpful, high quality service and assistance; Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate with students, staff, faculty and the general public; Ability to grasp new concepts. Ability to maintain professionalism and composure under high customer demand and challenging customer interactions; Ability to work as part of a team, maintain a positive attitude and work together to achieve a common goal of providing world class customer service; Excellent written and verbal communication. Notes: Maintain a valid CA driver’s license. Must wear prescribed uniform while on duty.; Ability to work outside year round in inclement weather using established foul weather gear provided by the department; Ability to stand and walk for most of each shift and walk an average of 6 to 8 miles daily over hilly terrain, around parked cars in both covered and uncovered parking facilities; Required to hold a valid driver’s license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies and procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program; Satisfactory criminal history background check; UCSB is a Tobacco‑Free environment. Hiring/ Budgeted Hourly Range: $25.45 to $26.42/hr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open Until Filled. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 86044.

STARBUCKS ASSISTANT MANAGER

CAMPUS DINING

The Assistant Manager of Starbucks trains and supervises a team of part‑time student employees. Creates and maintains the Starbucks product and store experience for customers. The Assistant Manager is required to be the floor manager; ensures consistent service, supervision and sanitation. Reqs: High School Diploma; 1‑3 yrs in retail coffee location or restaurant environment‑specifically in the area of customer service, merchandising and inventory; 1‑3 yrs Experience in supervising and managing staff. Ability to work effectively with others, full‑time and student staff; 1‑3 yrs Demonstrated ability working with diverse student and career staff; 1‑3 yrs Excellent communication and customer service skills, including ability to effectively convey information verbally and in writing; 1‑3 yrs HACCP and Sanitation knowledge. Notes: Satisfactory criminal history background check; Visa sponsorship is not available for this position; UCSB is a Tobacco‑Free environment. Budgeted Hourly Range: $26.53 ‑ $29.31/hr. Full Salary Range: $26.53/hr ‑ $30.48/hr. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Open Until Filled. Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 85763.

LEGALS

ADMINISTER OF ESTATE

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER

ESTATE OF: GAIL A. MECONO No.:

26PR00230

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: GAIL A. MECONO

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara.

THE PETITION requests that (name): PAUL JORGENSEN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The Independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 06/25/2026 AT 9:00 a.m. Dept: Five SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, located at 1100 Anacapa Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101. ANACAPA DIVISION

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special notice form is available from the court clerk. Darrel E. Parker, Executive Officer 05/05/2026 by Monica Buenrostro, Deputy. Attorney for Petitioner: John A. Berryhill; 1505 East Valley Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93108; 805‑969‑4451 Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER

ESTATE OF: JAMES PHILIP SALCIDO AKA SALSIDO No.: 26PR00231

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: JAMES PHILIP SALCIDO AKO SALSIDO A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: SANTIAGO P SALSIDO in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara.

THE PETITION requests that (name): SANTIAGO P SALSIDO be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 6/25/2026 AT 9:00 a.m. Dept: SB 5 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, located at 1100 Anacapa Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Anacapa Division.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58 (b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special notice form is available from the court clerk. Darrel E. Parker, Executive Officer 5/05/2026 by Nicolette Barnard, Deputy. Attorney for Petitioner: Santiago P Salsido; 1710 Landmark Dr., Vallejo, CA 94591; 805‑456‑9124

Published: May 21, 28. June 4 2026.

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: MARY MADELIN FREY No.: 26PR00249

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: MARY MADELIN FREY

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: MICHAEL J. FREY in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara.

THE PETITION requests that (name): MICHAEL J. FREY be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 7/02/2026 AT 9:00 a.m. Dept: SB 5 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, located at 1100 Anacapa Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Anacapa Division.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special notice form is available from the court clerk. Darrel E. Parker, Executive Officer 5/14/2026 by Monica Buentostro, Deputy. Attorney for Petitioner: Michael J. Frey; PO Box 30444, Santa Barbara, CA 93130; 805‑448‑3572

Published: May 21, 28. June 4 2026. NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: JERRY L. POST No.: 26PR00229

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: JERRY L. POST

a.k.a. JERRY LEE POST

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: CYNTHIA J. POST in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara.

THE PETITION requests that (name): CYNTHIA J. POST be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 6/17/2026

AT 9:30 a.m. Dept: SM 1 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, located at 312 East Cook STREET SANTA MARIA, CA 93454

COOK DIVISION

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special notice form is available from the court clerk. Darrel E. Parker, Executive Officer 5/12/2026 by Robert Mendez, Deputy. Attorney for Petitioner: Adam P. Walsh, 650 Alamo Pintado Rd, Suite 301 Solvang, CA 93463 805‑284‑0711. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER

ESTATE OF:

MARGARET S. GUNNER

AKA MARGARET ANNE GUNNER AND MIMI ANNE SARKISIAN GUNNER

CASE NO. 26PR00253

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the

WILL or estate, or both of MARGARET S. GUNNER

AKA MARGARET ANNE GUNNER AND MIMI ANNE

SARKISIAN GUNNER.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by RICHARD V. GUNNER AND MICHAEL R. GUNNER in the Superior Court of California, County of SANTA BARBARA.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that RICHARD V. GUNNER AND MICHAEL R. GUNNER be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 07/02/26 at 9:00AM in Dept. SB5 located at 1100 ANACAPA ST., SANTA BARBARA, CA 93121

Attorney for Petitioner

ANDREW D. COPANS ‑ SBN

229049 MELODY F. SOROUDI ‑ SBN

316830 WILLKIE FARR & GALLAGHER LLP

2029 CENTURY PARK EAST

#2900 LOS ANGELES CA 90067

Telephone (310) 855‑3000 6/4, 6/11, 6/18/26

CNS‑4046768# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

FBN ABANDONMENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT ABANDONMENT

File No. FBN2026‑0001230

County of Original Filing: SANTA BARBARA

Date of Original Filing: 09/25/2024

Original File No. FBN2024‑ 0002273

Fictitious Business Name(s): SKIN NURSE, 1330 CHAPALA STREET, SUITE 104 SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101, County of SANTA BARBARA MOROVATI AESTHETIC MEDICAL CORPORATION, 1330 CHAPALA STREET, SUITE 104 SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101, CALIFORNIA

This business was conducted by A CORPORATION

The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on JUN 24, 2024

I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. A Registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime. (B&P Code 17913). I am also aware that all information on this statement becomes Public Record upon filing.

S/ TANYA MOROVATI, CEO

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 05/08/2026 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11/26

CNS‑4042623# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CARA MIA PUBLISHING COMPANY: 311 Gardengate Lane Lompoc, CA 93436; John R. Battistone (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: JOHN R. BATTISTONE/ OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 07, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E81. FBN Number: 2026‑0001224. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0001060

The following person(s) is doing business as: RIVIERA FOOT & ANKLE CENTER, 601 EAST ARRELLAGA, SUITE 203 SANTA BARBARA, CA 93103, County of SANTA BARABARA. FOOT & ANKLE HEALTH CENTER OF SANTA BARBARA, PC, 1820 W. ORANGEWOOD AVENUE, SUITE 104 ORANGE, CA 92868, CA

This business is conducted by A CORPORATION.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on SEPT 14, 2025 /s/ ABIMBOLA JOHNSON, D.P.M., PRESIDENT

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 04/22/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 5/14, 5/21, 5/28, 6/4/26 CNS‑4040805# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SHEPHERD’S GIVING FARM: 1980 US 101 Goleta CA 93117; Tom A Shepherd (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 05, 2026. Filed by: TOM SHEPHERD/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 05, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the

Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E63. FBN Number: 2026‑0001195. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT File No. FBN 2026‑0001111

The following person(s) is doing business as: PIPPIN, 1114 STATE ST STE 24 SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101, County of SANTA BARBARA. CURATE HOME LLC, 1114 STATE ST #24 SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101, CA

This business is conducted by A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on NOT APPLICABLE /s/ CARLY PIPPIN, MANAGING MEMBER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 04/24/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 5/14, 5/21, 5/28, 6/4/26 CNS‑4040945# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CENTRAL COAST MAINTENANCE PROS: 5560 Black Road Casmalia, CA 93429; Jason B Rangel PO Box 118 Casmalia, CA 93429 This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 30, 2026. Filed by: JASON RANGEL/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 05, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001203. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THIRD THOUGHTS HOLLOW: 26 San Marcos Trout Club Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Yesenia Thomas (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 30, 2026. Filed by: YESENIA THOMAS with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 05, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001200. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SKYENNA, SKYENNA WINES: 12 Helena Avenue Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Skyenna LLC PO Box 30132 Santa Barbara, CA 93130 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Nov 01, 2017. Filed by: LEN GERMANO/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 23, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001072. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ANALOGUE ROOM: 1693 Mission Dr. D2 Solvang, CA 93463; Sol II Inc. 865 Kolding Ave. Solvang, CA 93463 This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 09, 2026. Filed by: JOHN WILLIAM WRIGHT/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 16, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0000983. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HOLLISTER

RANCH PRESERVE, HOLLISTER RANCH CONSERVANCY: 1000 Hollister Ranch Gaviota, CA 93117; The Hollister Ranch Owners’ Association (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 14, 1971. Filed by: BETH SHEVIN/PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 14, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0000963. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/ are doing business as: SELF STORAGE OF SANTA MARIA: 1701 N. Carlotti Drive Santa Maria, CA 93455; William B. Kendall 3000 Lista Linda Lane Santa Barbara, CA 93108 This business is conducted by A Limited Partnership Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Dec 11, 2000. Filed by: WILLIAM B. KENDALL/ MGP, BRC, SELF STORGE OF SANTA MARIA LP with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 14, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001192. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MERCHAV: 1463 Camino Rio Verde Santa Barbara, CA 93111; Tragan Campbell (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 05, 2026. Filed by: TRAGAN CAMPBELL/FOUNDER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 05, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E63. FBN Number: 2026‑0001199. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CARRIAGE AND WESTERN ART MUSEUM OF SANTA BARBARA: 129 Castillo Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Carridge And Western Art Museum Of Santa Barbara (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 01, 1972. Filed by: PETER GEORGI/VP with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E81. FBN Number: 2026‑0001032. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SAPIEN SOUL: 731 East Haley Street Santa Barbara, CA 93103; Lisa Biggs (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Oct 01, 2025. Filed by: LISA BIGGS with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001021. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PAPERWORK BOT, QORSOFTWARE: 1736 Olive Ave. Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Kaytos, LLC (same address) This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 06, 2025. Filed by: LISA BIGGS with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 06, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of

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crosswordpuzzle

ByMattJones

Across

1. Reach half a century (which yours truly will do in March!)

10. SI unit named for a Serb

15. Differently

16. How some bras are available for order, color-wise

17. Fuel that can be made from soybeans

18. Yarn

19. Shady character?

20. To a tee, slangily

22. Envelope acronym

23. Seafood restaurant item

24. Pixelated image, on old computer displays

26. Major label broken up in 2012

27. ___ Pacific University (Christian institution near L.A.)

30. Doctor (Richard Dreyfuss) antagonized by Bob (Bill Murray) in “What About Bob?”

32. White Stripes album named after a Dutch art movement

34. Not raw

35. Fair

36. Hill crest, in England (or “sack” lead-in)

37. Diversion using parts of speech

40. Low-cost carrier based in Kuala Lumpur

44. The current record for one is 275.97

47. Time served

System that reads credit cards

Rolled snack?

51. “Let There Be ___ ... Ruff Ryders’ First Lady” (1999 debut rap album)

52. Piz Bernina and Schreckhorn, for two

54. Live dangerously

56. Miss Piggy tagline

57. Tale of Troy that doesn’t get to the Trojan Horse

59. Misleadingly named little pet

61. Ours in Tours

62. Area affected by plantar fasciitis

63. Promotional link 64. Enterprise is its flagship

1. Words after “Good” or “Born”

Draw on

Diamond figure

Australian bushranger Kelly

“Looney Tunes” animator Freleng 6. “___ my sunglasses at night” (Corey Hart lyric)

Regarding money

Sleeping sickness vector

Summon loudly

Contracted agreement

They’ll check your head

Ski town near Montpelier, on envelopes

Wyoming’s only university town

LEGALS (CONT.)

the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN

Number: 2026‑0001218. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s)

is/are doing business as: THIS UNFINISHED LIFE, TUL: 1520 San Miguel Ave. Santa Barbara, CA 93109; Tawnya Bragg (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 02, 2026. Filed by: TAWNYA BRAGG with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 06, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001219. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SANTA YNEZ

BILLIARDS & CAFE: 1000 Edison St. Santa Ynez, CA 93460; SY M&R LLC PO Box 1948 Santa Ynez, CA 93460

This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 01, 2026. Filed by: MATHEW ABDULAZIZ/MANAGER/ MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 29, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E49. FBN Number: 2026‑0001150. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CHANNEL

ISLANDS ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL

SURGERY: 2425 Bath St. Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Reynaldo Rivera DDS MD Inc. 67 S Glenn Dr. Camarillo, CA 93010; McAninch Dental Group Inc. 1111 East Ocean Avenue Lompoc, CA 93436 This business is conducted by A General Partnership Registrant commenced to

transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: REYNALDO RIVERA/ PARTNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 20, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001007. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MESA TAX

PROFESSIONALS: 1933 Cliff Drive, Suite 14 Santa Barbara, CA 93109; MBS Books LLC (same address) This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 23, 2026. Filed by: AHOVANY MENDOZA/MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 27, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001124. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MARBELLA

COUNSELING: 1428 San Andres St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Maria Del Rosario C Ventura PO Box 123 Santa Barbara, CA 93102 This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: MARIA VENTURA with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 11, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001248. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: FIESTA APTS: 416 W North Ave Lompoc, CA 93436; PI Properties No 22, LLC 610 N Santa Anita Ave Arcadia, CA 91006 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Feb 25, 2022. Filed by: RAO R YALAMANCHILI/MANAGER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 04, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001184. Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: COASTAL

RIVIERA VINTAGE: 744 Calle De Los Amigos Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Jose Orozco (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: JOSE OROZCO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 23, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001130. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

File No. FBN2026‑0001142

The following person(s) is doing business as:

ANIMAL CLINIC OF SANTA MARIA, 1 S WACKER DRIVE, SUITE 2200 CHICAGO, IL 60606, County of COOK COUNTY. CENTRAL VET MGMT, LLC, 1 S WACKER DRIVE SUITE 2200 CHICAGO, IL 60606, CALIFORNIA

This business is conducted by A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on NOT APPLICABLE /s/ P. ROY JAIN, COO/SECRETARY/VP OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 04/28/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11/26

CNS‑4043062# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT

File No. FBN2026‑0001214

The following person(s) is doing business as:

SPRAY IT SLAY IT, 879 SERENIDAD PL GOLETA, CA 93117, County of SANTA BARBARA. GOODLAND FAMILY ENTERPRISES LLC, 879 SERENIDAD PL GOLETA, CA 93117, CALIFORNIA

This business is conducted by A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on APR 16, 2026 /s/ JANELLE ORTEGA, MANAGING MEMBER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 05/06/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11/26 CNS‑4043222# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: COASTAL SOUNDS MUSIC THERAPY: 4930

Cervato Way Santa Barbara, CA 93111; Meghan F Downing (same address) This business is conducted by A Indivdual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Mar 02, 2026. Filed by: MEGHAN DOWNING/ SOLE PROPRIETOR with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 11, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001250. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/ are doing business as: IRON ARMADA: 748 Enterprise Avenue Lompoc, CA 93436; Templar Gate LLC 5142 Hollister Ave. #4012 Santa Barbara, CA 93111 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 16, 2026. Filed by: VICTOR M. TAMAYO/MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 07, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001221. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11

2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/ are doing business as: ARIA KITCHEN AND BATH: 1428 Santa Rosa Ave Santa Barbara, CA 93109; Aria Cabinetry And Design (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Mar 05, 2026. Filed by: ALBERTO JAIMES MENDOZA/CEO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001039. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MIA ROSE BEAUTY BAR: 3011 De La Vina St Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Rosemary A. Perez (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jan 01, 2020. Filed by: ROSEMARY PEREZ/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 14, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E28. FBN Number: 2026‑0001289. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL: 199 S Turnpike Rd, Ste 105 Santa Barbara, CA 93111; CCNSB, LLC (same address) This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 01, 2026. Filed by: TED ELLIS/GENERAL MANAGER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 14, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001284. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE LAW OFFICE OF KRISTIAN BEVERLY: 414 North O Street Santa Barbara, CA 93436; Kristian D Beverly (same address) This business is conducted by A Invididual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 30, 2026. Filed by: KRISTIAN BEVERLY/ESQUIRE with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 05, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001208. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 805 IMMIGRATION SERVICES: 133 South Salinas Street Santa Barbara, CA 93103; Lucero Milla (same address) This business is conducted by A Invididual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: LUCERO MILLA/ OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 15, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E63. FBN Number: 2026‑0001303. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LIQUID CULT: 3038 La Ramada Drive Santa Barbara, CA 93111; Onyx And Redwood LLC 5662 Calle Real #183 Goleta, CA 93117 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jun 04, 2019. Filed by: JESSICA KUIPERS/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County

on May 15, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001307. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/ are doing business as: NANCY G WEISS CONSULTING, CHYTILO CONSULTING: 1505 Mission Canyon Rd Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Osprey Consulting LLC POB 92233 Santa Barbara, CA 93190 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Dec 06, 2023. Filed by: MARC CHYTILO/MANAGER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 12, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001258. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SAGE‑SB, SAGE: 1221 State Street, #92233 Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Smart Action For Growth And Equity‑Santa Barbara 1221 State Street #92233 Santa Barbara, 93101 This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 29, 2025. Filed by: STEVE FORSELL/PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 11, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001251. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RHIM, INC: 3938 Harrold Ave. Santa Barbara, CA 93110; Rhim, INC. (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Dec 01, 2010. Filed by: RAUL RUTTEN/ PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 14, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E76. FBN Number: 2026‑0001292. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LADERA PROPERTIES: 4161 Vieja Drive Santa Barbara, CA 93110; Johan C Scharin (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 14, 2026. Filed by: JOHAN C SCHARIN/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 18, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E49. FBN Number: 2026‑0001315. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/ are doing business as: NOBLE POWER EQUIPMENT, NOBLE SAW: 2935 S Higuera St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401; Noble Saw Acquistion, LLC 196 Curtner Ave Campbell, CA 95008 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jan 01, 2026. Filed by: RICHARD OGAWA/MANAGER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 23, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001068. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HANDYMAN CHRIS MADSEN: 3 Willowglen Place

Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Christopher P Madsen (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 13, 2026. Filed by: CHRISTOPHER MADSEN/ OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 18, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001320. Published: May 21, 28. Jun 4, 11 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN 2026‑0001248

The following person(s) is doing business as:

VALERIO’S TOWING & TRANSPORTATION, 945 E. JONES STREET, SUITE 25 SANTA MARIA, CA 93545, County of SANTA BARBARA. VALERIO’S DIESEL REPAIR LLC, 945 E. JONES STREET SUITE 25 SANTA MARIA, CA 93454, CALIFORNIA

This business is conducted by A LIMITED LIABLITY COMPANY.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on NOT APPLICABLE /s/ OMAR GERARDO VALERIO, CEO

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 05/11/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 5/28, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18/26 CNS‑4044114# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SOLACE JEWELRY: 452 Fellowship Rd. Santa Barbara, CA 93109; Catherine M. Brunner (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 14, 2026. Filed by: CATHERINE BRUNNER/MS with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 18, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001323. Published: May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CENTER FOR SPRITUAL RENEWAL: 888 San Ysidro Lane Santa Barbara, CA 93108; Immaculate Heart Community 840 Echo Park Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90026 This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jan 01, 1943. Filed by: SHEILA ARASAWA/CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 14, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001296. Published: May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LA CASA DE MARIA RETREAT AND CONFERENCE CENTER: 888 San Ysidro Lane Santa Barbara, CA 93108; Immaculate Heart Community 840 Echo Park Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90026 This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jan 01, 1943. Filed by: SHEILA ARASAWA/CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 14, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001295. Published: May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT

File No. FBN2026‑0001209

The following person(s) is doing business as: 1. ADVANCED VETERINARY

SPECIALISTS, 2. AVS, 3. SAGE VETERINARY CENTERS, 414 EAST CARRILLO STREET SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101, County of SANTA BARBARA. SAGE VETERINARY HOLDCO LLC, 1 BAXTER WAY SUITE 200 WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91362, DE

This business is conducted by A LIMITED PARTNERSHIP. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on FEB 11, 2021 /s/ MARK MOURITSEN SECRETARY OF SAGE VETERINARY HOLDCO LLC,THE GENERAL PARTNER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 05/06/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 5/28, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18/26

CNS‑4041289# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RIVIERA COLLECTIVE: 69 Santa Felicia Drive, Unit #111 Goleta, CA 93117; Riviera Collective LLC (same address) This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: GIULIANA MCCRACKEN GARCIA/ MANAGING MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001359. Published: May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LUXURY PAINTING: 302 W Montecito St, B Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Luis E Cervantes (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 18, 2026. Filed by: LUIS CERVANTES/PAINTER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 18, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E78. FBN Number: 2026‑0001318. Published: May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HEARING CONCIERGE OF MONTECITO: 1230 Coast Village Circle, Suite M Santa Barbara, CA 93108; Hearing Concierge Of Montecito Audiology, APC (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: AMBER FLETCHER/ PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 11, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001249. Published: May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

FICTITIOUS

LEGALS (CONT.)

Haughin‑Scasny (same address)

This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 13, 2026. Filed by: ANDREW

HAUGHIN‑SCASNY with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001352. Published: May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/ are doing business as: CONNECTPOINT, INC: 175 Cremona Dr. Suite 160 Goleta, CA 93117; Connectpoint, Inc. (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 26, 2018. Filed by: RICK WOOD/ EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 21, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001358. Published: May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MILLER LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE: 1321 East Ocean Ave Lompoc, CA 93436; Miller Landscaping And Maintenance Inc. (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jan 01, 1983. Filed by: RANDY MILLER/ OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 14, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001283. Published: May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT

File No. FBN2026‑0001213

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as:

Extra Space Storage, 101 W Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 County of SANTA BARBARA

Extra Space Management Inc, 2795 E Cottonwood Pkwy Ste 400,

Salt Lake City, UT 84121

This business is conducted by a Corporation

The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Extra Space Management Inc S/ GWYN GOODSON MCNEAL, OFFICER,

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 05/06/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 5/28, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18/26

CNS‑4035715# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: STRATUS EVENT TECHNOLOGY: 5384 Ogan Rd Carpinteria, CA 93013; Stratus Streaming LLC (same address) This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Mar 01, 2026. Filed by: ALFREDO PERALTA with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Apr 23, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001073. Published: May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: COLLAB‑IST, FULL SPECTRUM GALLERY SPOTS: 2822 San Marcos Ave Los Olivos, CA 93441; Shelby Arthur Consulting Corp PO Box 513 Los Olivos, CA 93441 This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jan 16, 2024. Filed by: SHELBY ARTHUR/ PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 26, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland,

County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001383. Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MORE THAN NINE: 2323 Oak Park Lane, Suite 202 Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Aegeanmd LLC (same address) This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: AEGEAN HOI CHAN/ CEO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on N/A. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001238. Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SANTA BARBARA, MONTECITO COLLECTIVE‑REAL ESTATE ADVISORS, SANTA BARBARA REAL ESTATE, SB REAL ESTATE, SANTA BARBARA, MONTECITO REAL ESTATE: 1511 Chapala St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Stephen Epstein (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 05, 2026. Filed by: STEPHEN EPSTEIN/ OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 08, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E73. FBN Number: 2026‑0001232. Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: JENNY MONTECITO, JEN HUANG PHOTO, HRLM HOUSE, HEIRLOOM HOUSE: 1585 E Valley Rd Santa Barbara, CA 93108; Hrlm LLC (same address)

This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names

COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

listed above on May 17, 2026. Filed by: JENNY BOGAN/MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 26, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001391. Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE INN AT ANATEGA: 112 E Ortega St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Anatega Partners LLC 315 Meigs Rd Santa Barbara, CA 93109 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Feb 25, 2015. Filed by: NICK GILLIO/COO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 26, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001389. Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GALLOWAY & ASSOCIATES: 2236 S Broadway, Ste M Santa Maria, CA 93454; Galloway Opco, LLC (same address) This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jan 01, 2025. Filed by: DANIEL

APPLEGATE/CHIEF EXECUTIVE

OFFICER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 22, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001378. Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SAGE TRAIL

ALLIANCE: 27 W. Anapamu 248 Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Santa Barbara Mountain Bike Trail Volunteers (same address) This business is conducted by

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in the Board of Supervisors’ Hearing Room County Administration Building 105 East Anapamu St. 4th Floor, Santa Barbara The meeting starts at 9:00 a.m.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by the Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Barbara in the County Hearing Rooms located at 105 East Anapamu Street in Santa Barbara and 511 East Lakeside Parkway in Santa Maria on June 9, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. or shortly thereafter. Please see www.countyofsb.org for web streaming of the meeting, agenda, supplemental materials, and minutes, as well as page two of the agenda for a description of public participation options available to provide testimony on actions regarding the adoption of the proposed Ordinance Amending the Public Works Department Subdivision Map and Document Review Fee Schedule – Surveyor Division, and approving the proposed California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) exemption per CEQA Guidelines (CCR Section 15273, subdivisions (a)(1) and (a)(2). A copy of a report with the proposed ordinance can be viewed with the materials docketed for this item on the agenda. This information may also be obtained by calling the County Department of Public Works at (805) 568-3020 during business hours. Comments, objections or protests to the adoption of the proposed charges may be presented at the hearing or filed with the Clerk of the Board before the public hearing, whose address is 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, California, 93101.

For current methods of public participation for the meeting of June 9, 2026, please see page two (2) of the posted Agenda. The posted agenda will be available on Thursday prior to the above referenced meeting for a more specific time for this item. However, the order of the agenda may be rearranged, or the item may be continued.

Staff reports and the posted agenda are available on the Thursday prior to the meeting at http://santabarbara.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx under the hearing date or contact the Clerk of the Board at (805) 568-2240 for alternative options.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by 4:00 PM on Friday before the Board meeting. For information about these services please contact the Clerk of the Board at (805) 568-2240.

If you challenge this project in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence to the Board of Supervisors prior to the public hearing. G.C. Section 65009, 6066, and 6062a.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL (Hybrid Public Hearing – In Person and via Zoom) June 16, 2026, at 5:30 PM

Consider adoption of resolutions modifying the City of Goleta Operating and Capital Improvement Programs Budget for Fiscal Year 2026/27.

ATTENTION: The meeting will be held in person and via the Zoom platform. The public may also view the meeting on Goleta Channel 19 and/or online at www.cityofgoleta.org/meetings-agendas.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council will conduct a public hearing to consider adoption of resolutions modifying the City of Goleta Operating and Capital Improvement Programs Budget for Fiscal Year 2026/27. The agenda for the hearing will be posted on the City website (www.cityofgoleta.org).

HEARING DATE/TIME: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 5:30 PM

LOCATION: Goleta City Hall, 130 Cremona Drive, Goleta, CA, 93117 and Teleconference Meeting; this meeting will be held in person and via Zoom (with detailed instructions for participation included on the posted agenda)

PUBLIC COMMENT: Interested persons are encouraged to provide public comments during the public hearing in person or virtually through the Zoom webinar, by following the instructions listed on the City Council meeting agenda. Written comments may be submitted prior to the hearing by e-mailing the City Clerk at CityClerkgroup@cityofgoleta.gov. Written comments will be distributed to Council and published on the City’s Meeting and Agenda page.

FOR PROJECT INFORMATION: For further information on the budget, contact Luke Rioux, Finance Director, at (805) 562-5508 or lrioux@cityofgoleta.gov For inquiries in Spanish, please contact Marcos Martinez at (805) 5625500 or mmartinez@cityofgoleta.gov. Staff reports and documents will be posted approximately 72 hours before the hearing on the City’s website at www.cityofgoleta.gov.

Note: If you challenge the nature of the above action in court, you may be limited to only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City on or before the date of the hearing (Government Code Section 65009(b)(2)).

Note: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need assistance to participate in the hearing, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (805) 961-7505 or cityclerkgroup@cityofgoleta.gov. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the hearing will enable City staff to make reasonable arrangements.

Publish Date: Santa Barbara Independent, June 4, 2026 and June 11, 2026

COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in the Board of Supervisors’ Hearing Room County Administration Building 105 East Anapamu St. 4th Floor, Santa Barbara The meeting starts at 9:00 a.m.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by the Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Barbara, State of California on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. or shortly thereafter, in the Board of Supervisors Hearing Rooms, 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, CA, and 511 East Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria, CA, on proposed tipping fees charged at County Solid Waste Facilities, maximum franchised collection rates, and new Cuyama parcel fees for the collection of municipal solid waste in the unincorporated area for fiscal year 2026-27.

Copies of all the proposed rates will be posted at the County of Santa Barbara website at the link above for the June 9, 2026, Board Hearing. Copies of the maximum franchised collection rates will be posted by April 24, 2026, at http:// www.countyofsb.org/1112/collection-servicesrates. Hard copies of all the rates will be available on June 4, 2026, at the Clerk of the Board’s office at 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, California. Hard copies of the rates will also be available at the office of the Resource Recovery & Waste Management division located at 130 E. Victoria Street, Suite 100, Santa Barbara, California. Questions can be directed during business hours to (805) 882-3600.

Mona Miyasato

CLERK OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

By: Sheila de la Guerra, Deputy Clerk

Mona Miyasato CLERK OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

By: Sheila de la Guerra, Deputy Clerk

LEGALS (CONT.)

A Corporation Registrant commenced

to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 12, 2021. Filed by: THORIAN

THOMASCO/CHAIRMAN with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 19, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001332.

Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT

The following person(s)

is/are doing business as: WHOLE

CHART HEALTH: 1737 Calle Cerro Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Colleen H Elliot (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 28, 2026. Filed by: COLLEEN HURLEY ELLIOT/ RD, BCPA with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 15, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001310. Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LITTLE DOUGH CO: 449 Puente Dr. Santa Barbara, CA 93110; Katie Ramsey (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Apr 04, 2026. Filed by:

KATIE RAMSEY with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 28, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001414. Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT The following person(s) is/ are doing business as: LOUD FLOWER ART CO: 506 E Haley St Santa Barbara, CA 93103; Madeline Manson (same address) This business is conducted by

A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: MADELINE MANSON/ OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on May 22, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by E76. FBN Number: 2026‑0001369. Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

NAME CHANGE

AMENDED IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: JOSE LUIS

SANTANA ORDONEZ CASE NUMBER: 25CV07245

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

PETITIONER: JOSE LUIS SANTANA

ORDONEZ A petition has been filed by the above named Petitioner(s) in Santa Barbara Superior Court for decree changing name (s) as follows:

PRESENT NAME: LUIS SANTANA

TERRAZAS

PROPOSED NAME: LUIS

SANTANATERRAZAS

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing June 12, 2026, 10:00 am, DEPT: 4, SUPERIOR COURT COUNTY OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa Street. Santa Barbara, CA 93101, ANACAPA DIVISION

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published in the Independent, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county, at least once each week for four successive weeks

prior to the date set for hearing on the petition. Dated April 22, 2026, JUDGE

Donna D. Geck of the Superior Court.

Published May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION

TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: JEFFREY ROBERT MENELLY

CASE NUMBER: 26CV02696

PERSONS:

TO ALL INTERESTED

PETITIONER: JEFFREY ROBERT

MENELLY A petition has been filed by the above named Petitioner(s) in Santa Barbara Superior Court for decree changing name (s) as follows:

PRESENT NAME: JEFFREY ROBERT

MENELLY

PROPOSED NAME: JEFFREY ROBERT

MENELLI

DEPT: 4, SUPERIOR COURT COUNTY OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa Street. Santa Barbara, CA 93101, ANACAPA DIVISION

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published in the Independent, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county, at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition. Dated May 04, 2026, JUDGE Donna D. Geck of the Superior Court. Published May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: ROBERT BRETON PHILLIPS CASE NUMBER: 26CV03161 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

PETITIONER: A petition has been filed by the above named Petitioner(s) in Santa Barbara Superior Court for decree changing name (s) as follows:

PRESENT NAME: ROBERT BRETON

PHILLIPS

PROPOSED NAME: BRETON PHILLIPS

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing July 15, 2026, 10:00 am, DEPT: 3, SUPERIOR COURT COUNTY OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa Street. Santa Barbara, CA 93101, ANACAPA DIVISION

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published in the Independent, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county, at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition. Dated May 21, 2026, JUDGE Thomas P. Anderle of the Superior Court. Published May 28. Jun 4, 11, 18 2026.

PUBLIC NOTICES

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations for the City of Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County, California, Case No. 25‑09‑0750P. The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) solicits technical information or comments on proposed flood hazard determinations for the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), and where applicable, the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report for your community. These flood hazard determinations may include the addition or modification of Base Flood Elevations, base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area boundaries or zone designations, or the regulatory floodway. The FIRM and, if applicable, the FIS report have been revised to reflect these flood hazard determinations through issuance of a

Letter of Map Revision (LOMR), in accordance with Title 44, Part 65 of the Code of Federal Regulations. These determinations are the basis for the floodplain management measures that your community is required to adopt or show evidence of having in effect to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program. For more information on the proposed flood hazard determinations and information on the statutory 90‑day period provided for appeals, please visit FEMA’s website at https://www. floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/BFE_Status/ bfe_main.asp , or call the FEMA Mapping and Insurance eXchange (FMIX) toll free at 1‑877‑FEMA MAP (1‑877‑336‑2627).

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY OF THE DRAFT NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR THE PROPOSED Landon Equestrian Arena and Case No. 24DVP‑00035

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Hayden Landon proposes to construct a new 45,000‑square‑foot enclosed equestrian arena with a 300‑square‑foot well pump house.

PROJECT LOCATION: The project site is located [verbal description], commonly known as 3715 Baseline Avenue, APN 141‑042‑010 in the Santa Ynez Valley Community Plan area, Third Supervisorial District.

PUBLIC COMMENT: The County of Santa Barbara Planning and Development Department (P&D) is soliciting comments on the adequacy and completeness of NGD‑00035. You may comment by submitting written or oral comments to the project planner identified below prior to the close of public comment on July 6, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Due to the non‑complex nature of the project, a separate environmental hearing will not be held.

PROJECT DETAILS: The Proposed Project is a request for a Development Plan to allow construction of a new 45,000‑gross‑square‑foot (gsf) enclosed equestrian arena and a request for a Land Use Permit (Case No. 26LUP‑00055) to incorporate the arena as an expansion of the existing equestrian facilities. The requested Development Plan and associated equestrian facility operation will include a new 300‑gsf water well pump house for fire suppression and a new 22,000‑sf stormwater retention basin. The proposed Development Plan includes a request for a waiver

How Would This Impact the Average Residential Customer?

If the forecast remains unchanged and is approved, the average residential customer using 500 kWh per month would see a bill increase of approximately $2.20 per month in 2027 The actual impact will vary based on usage, baseline territory, and other factors SCE will update this application in October 2026, so that the latest forecast assumptions can be incorporated.

Additional Information

An administrative law judge will hold hearings, consider evidence, testimony, and public comments before drafting a proposed decision on this application CPUC Commissioners will then vote on a final decision at a public meeting.

You can read more about the utility’s request and make public comment by visiting apps.cpuc.ca.gov/c/A2605006 For questions about participating in CPUC matters, you can contact the Public Advisor’s Office at Public.Advisor@cpuc.ca.gov 1-866-849-8390 or 505 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco, CA 94102 Please reference A.26-05-006 in any communication with the CPUC.

Questions About the Request For questions about this application, please contact SCE by: Phone: 1-800-655-4555; Email case.admin@sce.com ; Mail: Eric Lee, A.26-05-006 – 2027 ERRA Forecast Application Southern California Edison Company, P.O. Box 800 Rosemead, CA 91770, or visit www.sce.com/applications for further information

to allow unimproved, unmarked/ unstriped parking areas within the AG‑II Zone District (pursuant to LUDC Section 35.36.090.B.2.). Grading for the equestrian facility will include 702 cubic yards (cy) of cut, 891 cy of fill, and 189 cy net import of fill. No trees are proposed for removal. The equestrian facility will be open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and available to private clients for horse training, breeding and boarding. The facility will not be open to the general public. The facility operation will include seven full‑time employees. Two of the employees will live on the subject property in two existing permitted Agricultural Employee Dwellings. The expanded equestrian facility will be served by a new private on‑site wastewater treatment system and the existing single‑parcel domestic and agricultural water system with private well. The Proposed Project be all‑electric with no natural gas hookups, and will retain Central Coast Community Energy as the energy provider or otherwise utilize 100% carbon free electricity. The Proposed Project will commit to the use of electrified off‑road landscaping equipment for ongoing operations and maintenance. The Proposed Project will provide dedicated space for organic waste and recycling receptacles and implement a Solid Waste Management Plan (including posting of educational signage) to sort and collect recyclables and organic waste.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW

FINDINGS: P&D has prepared a Draft Negative Declaration (ND) (26NGD‑00001 pursuant to Section 15073 of the State Guidelines for the Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the County of Santa Barbara Guidelines for the Implementation of CEQA. P&D’s issuance of an ND affirms our opinion that any significant adverse impacts associated with the proposed project may be reduced to a less than significant level with the adoption of mitigation measures and that the project does not require the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The ND prepared for the project identifies and discusses potential impacts, mitigation measures, residual impacts and monitoring requirements for identified subject areas. Significant but mitigable effects on the environment are anticipated in the following areas: Aesthetics, Fire Protection, Noise, Public Facilities, and Water Resources. If the project description changes, P&D will require a reevaluation to consider

the changes. This reevaluation will be subject to all regular fees and conditions. If you challenge this environmental document in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues raised by you or others in written correspondence or in hearings on the proposed project.

DOCUMENT AVAILABILITY: If a copy of the draft ND is not attached, the draft ND may be obtained and all documents incorporated by reference in the ND may be reviewed at P&D offices located at 624 Foster Road, Suite C, Santa Maria and on the P&D website at https://cosantabarbara.box.com/v/ LandonEquestrian. Draft documents are also available for review at the UCSB Library Reference Department on the University of California Santa Barbara campus, 93106; and at the Santa Ynez Library c/o Solvang Public Library at 1745 Mission Drive Solvang, CA 93463.

HOW TO COMMENT: Please provide comments to the project planner, Steve Conner, at (805) 568‑2081 or conners@ countyofsb.org, prior to the close of public comment on July 6, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Please limit comments to environmental issues such as traffic, biology, noise, etc. You will receive notice of the dates of future public hearings to consider project approval or denial.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in the hearing, please contact Hearing Support Staff (805) 568‑2000. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the hearing will enable Hearing Support Staff to make reasonable arrangements.

SUMMONS

SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): Alfredo Perez, an individual; Jacinto Hernandez Ramirez, and individual; Timo’s Auto Wrecking, LLC; and DOES 1 TO 20, inclusive YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): Facundo Jose Contreras Martinez, an individual NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this Summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self‑Help Center(www.courtinfo.ca. gov/ selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Website (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts

LEGALS (CONT.)

respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en el formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 o más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y dirección de la corte es):

SANTA BARBARA‑ANACAPA DIVISION SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa St. , Santa Barbara, CA 93101 CASE NO: (Número del Caso): 25CV07166

The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la dirección, y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante que no tiene abogado es): Elliott Eghbali, Esq. BD&J, PC 11175 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90026 (310) 887‑1818 DATE Fecha): 04/14/2026. Clerk, by (Secretario) /s/ Teri Chavez, Deputy (Adjunto) Published: May 14, 21, 28. Jun 4 2026.

SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): BENJAMIN CAZARES, aka BENJAMIN ELENES CAZARES, aka BENJAMIN CAZAREZ‑ELENES; JONATHAN FRANCO; CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES; and DOES 1 to 25, inclusive.

YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): LOGIX FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this Summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff.

A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self‑Help Center(www.courtinfo.ca. gov/ selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you

may call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Website (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self‑Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. !ADVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación. Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en el formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 o más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso. The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): SANTA BARBARA COURTHOUSE SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa St. , Santa Barbara, CA 93101 CASE NO: (Número del Caso): 24CV06314

The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la dirección, y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante que no tiene abogado es): SHERYL D. NOEL #172551, #172551; COLEMAN & HOROWITT, LLP, 499 West Shaw Avenue, Suite 116, Fresno, CA 93704 (559) 248‑4820 (800) 891‑8362 Fax (559) 248‑0130 DATE Fecha): 11/12/2024. Clerk, by (Secretario) /s/ Lauren Romero, Deputy (Adjunto) Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026. SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): Sarah‑Bina Burke, an individual; and DOES 1 through 50, inclusive.

YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): Salinas Landscape, LLC, a California limited liability company NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this Summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff.

nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Website (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self‑Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a

RACHEL VAN MULLEM, COUNTY COUNSEL

MIKE MUNOZ, SENIOR DEPUTY (BAR#218870) 105 E. ANAPAMU STREET, 201 SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101

ATTORNEY FOR SANTA BARBARA COUNTY PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 ANACAPA STREET 2ND FLOOR SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101 ANACAPA DIVISION

statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. !ADVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la

REPORT OF SALE AND PETITION FOR ORDER CONFIRMING SALE OF REAL PROPERTY and Sale of Other Property Sold as Unit

ESTATE OF: RODNEY DRAPER

CASE NUMBER: 24PR00683

Hearing Date and Time: June 25, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in Department 5 address of court is listed above

1. Petitioner (name of each): Harry E. Hagen, Santa Barbara County Public Administrator is the personal representative and requests a court order for c. approval of commission of 2.5% of the amount of: $624, 000.00 d. additional bond is not required

2. Description of property sold

a. Interest sold: 100% %

b. Improved

d. Street address and location (specify): 1012 Alphonse Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93013

e. Legal description is affixed as Attachment 2e.

3. Appraisal

a. Date of death of decedent or appointment of conservator or guardian (specify): 10/18/23 b, Appraised value at above date: $ 800,000.00

c. Reappraised value within one year before the hearing: $ 690,000.00 Amount Includes value of other property sold as a unit. (If more than one year has elapsed from the date In item 3a to the date of the hearing, reappraisal is required.)

d. Appraisal or reappraisal by probate referee has been filed

4. Manner and terms of sale

a. Name of purchaser and manner of vesting title (specify): See Attachment 4a.

c. Sale was private

d. Amount bid: $624, 000.00 Deposit: $18, 720.00

e. Payment Cash

f. Other terms (specify terms on Attachment 4e)

5. Commission a. Sale without broker

b. A written exclusive (name): Melissa Kane, Sun Coast Real Estate

c. Purchaser was procured by (name): Lenny Gerthoffer, Blue Star Real Estate a licensed real estate broker who is not buying for his or her account.

d. Commission is to be divided as follows: 100% to Melissa Kane, Sun Coast Real Estate

6. Bond a. Amount before sale: $ none.

b. Additional amount needed: $ none.

c. Proceeds are to be deposited in a blocked account. Receipts will be filed. (Specify institution and location):

7. Notice of sale

a. Published

8. Notice of hearing

a. Special devisee: (1) None.

c. Personal representative, conservator of the estate, or guardian of the estate: (1) Petitioner (consent or notice not required)

b. Special notice: (3) Required written notice will be given

9. Reason for sale

a. Necessary to pay

b. The sale is to the advantage of the estate and in the best interest of the interested persons. (1) debts

10. Formula for overbids

a. Original bid: $624,000.00

b. 10% of first $10,000.00 of original bid: $ 1,000.00

c. 5% of (original bid minus $10,000): $ 30,700.00

d. Minimum overbid (a + b + c): 655,700.00

11. Overbid. Required amount of first overbid (see item 10): $ 655,700.00

12. Petitioner’s efforts to obtain the highest and best price reasonably attainable for the property were as follows (specify activities taken to expose the property to the market, e.g., multiple listings, advertising, open houses, etc.): MLS, open houses

13. Number of pages attached: 43 Date: May 1, 2026, Mike Munoz, Senior Deputy

I declare under penalty of perjury the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

Date: May 4, 2026

Harry E. Hagen SB County Public Administrator

ATTACHMENT 2e

Residential real property located at 1012 Alphonse Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, described as follows: THE NORTH EASTERLY 25 FEET, FRONT AND REAR, OF LOT 44 OF MILPAS GARDENS, IN THE CITY OF SANTA BARBARA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ACCORDING TO THE MAP THEREOF RECORDED FEBRUARY 21ST, 1919 IN BOOK 9, PAGE 52 OF MAPS AND SURVEYS IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY. ALSO A RIGHT OF WAY OVER THE SOUTHWESTERLY 5 FEET FRONT AND REAR, OF THE NORTHWESTERLY 75 FEET OF THE PREMISES HEREIN DESCRIBED AS RESERVED, IN THE DEED FROM EDGAR W. JAQUES ET UX., TO A. R. METCALF AND ALICE M. METCALF, HIS WIFE, DATED MAY 7, 1925 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 60 PAGE 358 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY. APN: 031-185-004

ATTACHMENT 4a

TITLE SHALL BE TAKEN AS FOLLOWS: SERGIO VERDUZCO & MAGDALENA VERDUZCO, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS WITH RIGH OF SURVIVORSHIP; AND, SERGIO VERDUZCO, JR., AN UNMARRIED MAN.

Published May 21, 28. June 4 2026.

LEGALS (CONT.)

información a continuación.

Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en el formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 o más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso. The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): SANTA BARBARA COURTHOUSE SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa St. , Santa Barbara, CA 93101 CASE NO: (Número del Caso): 25CV05798

The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la dirección, y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante que no tiene abogado es): Arash Merpour, Esq.‑ 15 W Carrillo, Suite 105, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 222‑6738 DATE Fecha): 09/19/2025. Clerk, by (Secretario) /s/ Naylea Calderon, Deputy (Adjunto) Published: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25 2026.

PLAINTIFF’S CLAIM and ORDER to Go to Small Claims Court

Notice to the person being sued: • You are the defendant if your name is listed in on page 2 of this form or on form SC‑100A. The person suing you is the plaintiff, listed in on page 2, • You and the plaintiff must go to court on the trial date listed below. If you do not go to court,‑you may lose the case, If you lose, the court can order that your wages, money, or property be taken to pay this claim. • Bring witnesses, receipts, and any evidence you need to prove your case. • Read this form and all pages attached to understand the claim against you and to protect your rights. Aviso al Demandado: Usted es el Demandado si su nombre figura en c de la pagina 2 de este formulario, o en el. formulario SC‑100A, La persona que lo demanda es el Demandante, la que figura en de la pagina 2. Usted y el Demandante tienen clue presentarse en la corte en la fecha del juicio indicada a continua.cion. Si no se presenta, puede perder el caso. Si pierde el caso, la corte podria ordenar que le quiten de su sueldo, dinero u otros bienes para pagar este reciamo. • Lleve testigos, recibos y cualquier otra prueba que necesite para probar su easo • Lea este formulario y todas las pc ginas adjuntas para entender la demanda en su contra y para proteger sus derechos. Order to Go to Court

Superior Court of California County of Santa Barbara Angela Braun, Executive Officer 03/04/2026 By: Nikki Punsalan, Deputy Fill In court name and street address: Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara Anacapa Division 1100 Anacapa’s Street Santa Barbara, CA 93121‑1107 Court fills in case number when form is filed. Case Number: 26CV01516

Case Name: Umair Tariq vs Jannat Cheema the people in 1 and 2 must attend court: 7/27/2026 9:00 am SB 3, Angela Braun Date: 3/04/2026 Clerk, by Is/ Nikki Punsalan, Deputy Instructions for the person suing:

•You are the plaintiff. The person you are suing is the defendant.

•Before you fill out this form, read form SC‑100‑INFO, Information for the Plaintiff, to know your rights. You can get form SC‑100‑INFO at any courthouse or county law library, or go to courts.ca.gov/rules‑forms/ find‑your‑court‑forms.

•Fill out pages 2, 3, and 4 of this form. Make copies of all the pages of this form and any attachments—one for each party named in this case and an extra copy for yourself. Take or mail the original and the copies to the court clerk’s office and pay the filing fee. The clerk will write the date of your trial in the box above. Your court may allow electronic filing, Check your local court

website for information: www.courts. cagovIfind‑my‑courthon.

• You must have someone at least 18, not you or anyone else listed in this case give each defendant a court‑stamped copy of all pages of this form and any pages this form tells you to attach. There are special rules for “serving,” or delivering, this form to public entities, associations, and some businesses. See forms •SC404, SC‑104B, and SC‑1040.

• Go to court on your trial date listed above. Bring witnesses, receipts, and any evidence you need to prove your case.

Published: June 4, 11, 18, 25 2026. TRUSTEE NOTICE

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE File No.:25‑369356

A.P.N.:071‑072‑017 Property

Address.: 834 CARDINAL AVENUE, GOLETA, CA 93117. YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED MAY 02, 2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF

YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102

of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. In the event tender other than cash is accepted, the Trustee may withhold the issuance of the Trustee’s Deed Upon Sale until funds become available to the payee or endorsee as a matter of right. The property offered for sale excludes all funds held on account by the property receiver, if applicable. The property described heretofore is being sold “as is” The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under

NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX DELINQUENCY

I, Harry E. Hagen, Santa Barbara County Treasurer-Tax Collector, State of California, certify as follows:

That at 12:01 a.m. on July 1, 2026, by operation of law, any real property (unless previously tax-defaulted and not redeemed) that has any delinquent taxes, assessments, or other charges levied for the fiscal year 2025-2026, and/or any delinquent supplemental taxes levied prior to the fiscal year 2025-2026 shall be declared tax-defaulted.

That unless the tax defaulted property is completely redeemed through payment of all unpaid amounts, together with penalties and fees prescribed by law or an installment plan is initiated and maintained; the property will become tax-defaulted and may be sold subsequently at a tax sale to satisfy the tax lien.

That a detailed list of all properties remaining tax-defaulted as of July 1, 2026, and not redeemed prior to being submitted for publication, shall be published on or before September 8, 2029.

That information concerning redemption or the initiation of an installment plan for redemption of tax-defaulted property will be furnished, upon request, by Harry E. Hagen, Santa Barbara County Treasurer-Tax Collector, at the office locations listed below:

Santa Barbara: County Administration Building 105 E. Anapamu Street, Room 109 Telephone: (805) 568-2920

Santa Maria: Betteravia Government Center 511 E. Lakeside Parkway Telephone: (805) 346-8330

Website: www.sbtaxes.org

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that the foregoing is true and correct.

HARRY E. HAGEN, CPA, CPFA, CPFO, CFIP, CGIP, ACPFIM

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY TREASURER-TAX COLLECTOR STATE OF CALIFORNIA

Executed at City of Santa Barbara, County of Santa Barbara, California, on May 26, 2026.

Published in The Santa Barbara Independent on June 4, 11, & 18, 2026.

NOTICE OF IMPENDING POWER TO SELL TAX-DEFAULTED PROPERTY Made pursuant to Revenue & Taxation Code Section 3361 and 3362.

Pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code Sections 3691 and 3692.4, the following conditions will, by operation of law, subject real property to the tax collector’s power to sell:

• All property for which property taxes and assessments have been in default for five or more years.

• All nonresidential commercial property for which property taxes and assessments have been in default for three or more years.

• Any property the tax collector has received a request to bring the property to the next scheduled tax sale from a person or entity that has a nuisance abatement lien recorded against the property and for which property taxes and assessments have been in default for three or more years.

• Any property that has been identified and requested for purchase by a city, county, city and county, or nonprofit organization to serve the public benefit by providing housing or services directly related to low-income persons and for which property taxes and assessments have been in default for three or more years.

Note: The power to sell schedule for nonresidential commercial property is three or more years of tax default status, unless the county adopts, by ordinance or resolution, the five-year tax default schedule.

The parcels listed herein meet one or more of the conditions listed above and, thus, will become subject to the tax collector’s power to sell on July 1, 2026, at 12:01 a.m., by operation of law. The tax collector’s power to sell will arise unless the property is either redeemed or made subject to an installment plan of redemption initiated as provided by law prior to close of business on the last business day in June. The right to an installment plan terminates on the last business day in June, and after that date the entire balance due must be paid in full to prevent sale of the property at a tax sale.

The right of redemption survives the property becoming subject to the power to sell, but it terminates at close of business on the last business day prior to the date of the sale by the tax collector.

All information concerning redemption or the initiation of an installment plan of redemption will be furnished, upon request, by Harry E. Hagen, County Treasurer-Tax Collector, at the office locations listed below:

Santa Barbara: County Administration Building 105 E. Anapamu Street, Room 109 Telephone: (805) 568-2920

Santa Maria: Betteravia Government Center 511 E. Lakeside Parkway Telephone: (805) 346-8330

Website: www.sbtaxes.org

The amount to redeem, including all penalties and fees, as of June 2026, is shown opposite the parcel number and next to the name of the assessee.

LEGALS (CONT.)

PARCEL NUMBERING SYSTEM EXPLANATION

The Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN), when used to describe property in this list, refers to the assessor’s map book, the map page, the block on the map, if applicable, and the individual parcel on the map page or in the block. The assessor’s maps and further explanation of the parcel numbering system are available in the assessor’s office.

PROPERTY TAX-DEFAULTED ON JULY 1, 2021 FOR THE TAXES, ASSESSMENTS, AND OTHER CHARGES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020– 2021

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that the foregoing is true and correct.

HARRY E. HAGEN, CPA, CCMT, CPFA, CPFO, CFIP, CGIP, ACPFIM SANTA BARBARA COUNTY TREASURER-TAX COLLECTOR STATE OF CALIFORNIA

Executed at City of Santa Barbara, County of Santa Barbara, California, on May 26, 2026. Published in The Santa Barbara Independent on June 4, 11, & 18, 2026.

the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The Beneficiary’s bid at said sale may include all or part of said amount. The amount may be greater on the day of sale.

Trustor(s): DANNON M. STORY, A MARRIED WOMAN AS HER SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY Duly Appointed Trustee: Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid And Crane, LLP DEED OF TRUST Recorded on May 11, 2007 at Instrument No 2007‑0035308 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of SANTA BARBARA County, California Sale Date: 6/10/2026 Sale Time: 1:00 PM Sale Location: At the main entrance to the County Courthouse, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $300,256.98 (Estimated) Street Address or other common designation of real property: 84 CARDINAL AVENUE, GOLETA, CA 93117. See Legal Description ‑ Exhibit “A”attached here to and made a part hereof. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDER(S): If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER(S): The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (866‑684‑2727) or visit the website

http://www.servicelinkasap.co m, using the file number assigned to this case 25‑ 369356. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT(S): Effective January 1, 2021, you may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to California Civil Code Section 2924m. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48‑ hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (866‑ 684‑2727) or visit the website http://www.servicelinkasap.co m, using the file number assigned to this case 25‑ 369356 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15‑days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45‑days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder”, you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid And Crane, LLP Date: 4/27/2026 By: Emma Taylor Authorized Signatory 13010 Morris Road, Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Phone: 858‑997‑1304 SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ONLINE AT HTTP://WWW.SERVICELINKA SAP.COM FOR AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL (866‑684‑2727) The above‑named trustee may be acting as a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained may be used for that purpose. CA DPFI Debt Collection License # 11461‑99; NMLS ID 2591653. To the extent your original obligation was discharged or is subject to an automatic stay of bankruptcy under Title 11 of the United States Code, this notice is for compliance and/or informational purposes only and does not constitute an attempt to collect a debt or to impose personal liability for such obligation. However, a secured party retains rights under its security instrument, including the right to foreclose its lien. LEGAL DESCRIPTION ‑ EXHIBIT A LOT 16 IN BLOCK F OF KELLOGG PARK, AS PER MAP RECORDED IN BOOK 40, PAGES 19, 20, AND 21 OF MAPS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY. A‑ 4872903 05/21/2026, 05/28/2026, 06/04/2026