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VOL. 40 NO. 2079

HOW MANY $9 BURRITOS CAN YOU BAG? Santa Barbara’s Sixth Annual Burrito Week by Indy Staff

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By Akram Khan and Manal AlDowayan

Tue, Oct 6 / 7:30 PM / Granada Theatre “One of the most influential choreographers of his generation.” The Guardian (U.K.)

Lang Lang, piano

Clarice & Sérgio Assad

Fri, Oct 9 / 7 PM / Granada Theatre “Lang the magician is slowly transforming himself into Lang the musician… his playing was so raptly beautiful that one was afraid to breathe for fear of missing anything.” Chicago Tribune Program includes Mozart, Beethoven, Albéniz, Granados and Liszt

Visit our website to view the full 2026-2027 lineup

Wed, Oct 21 / 7:30 PM / Campbell Hall Legendary Brazilian guitarist and composer Sérgio Assad joins his daughter, the pianist, vocalist and Grammy-nominated composer Clarice Assad, for an evening showcasing the warmth, rhythmic vitality and rich musical inheritance of one of Brazil’s great artistic families.

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Volume 40 #2079, Sept. 24-Oct. 1, 2026

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

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FEATURE

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Check out the Indy40 puzzle at Loubud Wines.

NEWS..................................................... 7 OPINIONS......................................... 14 Angry Poodle Barbecue . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

OBITUARIES.................................... 18 In Memoriam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Restaurant Guy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

ASTROLOGY ...................................56 CLASSIFIEDS..................................57 ON THE COVER: Illustration by Ben Ciccati. Design by Xavier Pereyra.

Though we had our big birthday block party back on August 29, we’ve been celebrating all year long. From our cover show and panels back in April to our exclusive merch (on sale now at independent.com/merch), we’ve had many great things come out of our 40th anniversary celebrations — with many more on the way. One such creation that you can enjoy now is at Loubud Wines: a special INDY40 puzzle for you to complete while you sip your wine! The five-by-eight-inch wooden puzzle was hand-carved by tasting room owner Paul Hughes, and features the custom artwork by muralist Tony Diaz of Ripe Mind Designs. The artwork is inspired by the Presidio Neighborhood, where our Art Director Xavier Pereyra looked at our own murals, scenic buildings, lush nature, and our newsstands that are scattered all across Santa Barbara County. Loubud Wines, a Santa Barbara staple since 2015 founded by Laura Hughes, was a pit stop participant during our INDY40 Fest where they unveiled this puzzle that the public can now complete during their business hours. So, hunker down with a delicious bottle of bubbles from Loubud and dive into the magically detailed world of our INDY40 puzzle! The Loubud tasting room where you can complete your adventure is at 20 El Paseo, and don’t forget to share your puzzle wins and Easter egg finds with us on Instagram @sbindependent.

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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

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SEPT. 17-24, 2026

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

NEWS BRIEFS

Rent Stabilization Ordinance Moves Ahead ELAINE SANDERS

After Disagreement over Affordable Housing Exemptions, Council Narrowly Advances Ord. in Separate Votes

by Ryan P. Cruz t wasn’t exactly a smooth landing, but after another set of tense deliberations and a pair of split votes — with City Council nearly failing to come to agreement about affordable housing exemptions—the City of Santa Barbara’s rent stabilization ordinance is moving forward, and on track to meet the City Council’s intended launch date of January 1, 2027. Tuesday’s council hearing was expected to be another showdown over the city’s muchdebated rent stabilization ordinance, as the council and city staff were working on an extremely tight deadline to complete the ordinance by the end of this year. Barbara Andersen, senior assistant to the city administrator, made it clear the city was in its now-or-never moment, after years of background planning and at least 10 months of public hearings since the city began developing the current drafted ordinance. Now, city staff needed clear buy-in from the council to officially get the program started with final direction, first reading of the ordinance, and approval of $500,000 from

Councilmembers Kristen Sneddon (left) and Meagan Harmon were the only members of the council to vote yes on both passing the ordinance and adding affordable housing exemptions.

the city’s Measure I Flexible Housing and Homelessness Fund to pay for implementation-related expenses. To put it plainly, the city had a lot riding on the outcome of the September 22 hearing. During early discussions, the council consistently had four votes in support of rent stabilization. In recent hearings, however, debates regarding the exemptions for deed-restricted affordable housing forced

a split between Councilmembers Meagan Harmon and Wendy Santamaria — who agree on the program as a whole but differed on the details of affordable housing exemptions. “My support for rent stabilization has been clear over the years,” Harmon said. “My support is still strong. But this ordinance, specifically — for me to vote yes — must include those two exemptions.” CONT’D ON PAGE 9

ENERGY

Sable Offshore: When It Rains, It Pours Digging Underway for Corrosion Inspections as Supes Vote to Condemn Feds’ Intervention on Oil Company’s Behalf by Nick Welsh ix months after Sable Offshore Oil relaunched oil production at its Las Flores Canyon Plant in Santa Barbara County—after a 10-year shutdown resulting from a major oil spill caused by pipeline corrosion in 2015 — company attorneys notified county officials that they need county clearance to dig up 12 lengths of pipeline to determine whether they’re as corroded as a federally mandated tests indicated they were. Should the 12 “anomalies”—as these corrosion hot spots are known — eat into the wall of the steel pipeline by 40 percent or more, the company would be required to repair that portion of pipe. Although the county counsel’s office has not yet decided whether to issue the Houstonbased oil company such a clearance—or even what the county’s jurisdictional authority is—Sable work crews have been out digging up pipeline since September 8. Seven of the anomalies are located along the coast—more typically the jurisdiction of the California Coastal Commission — and four stretches located inland close to Sable’s

ELECTION 2026

ELAINE SANDERS

CITY

NEWS of the WEEK

Las Flores plant. For the time being, county officials are saying they do not know how many—if any—of the 12 anomalies will require repair. According to county spokesperson Kelsey Buttita, the county does not know how corroded the test said the 12 anomaly hot spots were. According to Buttita, Sable told the county that pipeline excavation and repair can be conducted “live,” meaning that pumping need not stop for the work to get done. The first leg of the work ran September 8-15. The next leg runs September 18-26. For obvious reasons, corrosion control remains a volatile issue given how Sable went toe-to-toe to with a host of state agencies, insisting the company did not need to any new permits to do the extensive repair work on the second-hand pipeline Sable bought from Exxon that sprang a 142,000-gallon leak in 2015. This incurred the wrath of the California Coastal Commission and the state Attorney General’s office, to name just two; Sable responded by enlisting the Trump White House on its behalf in unprecedented new ways.

Speaking of the new anomalies, Linda Krop, chief counsel for the Environmental Defense Center and one of Sable’s most dogged opponents, expressed legal and operational safety concerns over news that Sable is digging “validation” sites along the coast and back country. “According to Sable and the Trump Administration, this pipeline was supposed to be totally safe. But just six months after starting, they are already finding so-called anomalies, which are defects that are serious enough that they require excavations and potential repairs,” she charged. This Tuesday, the fight spilled into the county supervisors’ chambers. The supervisors—embroiled in litigation with Sable over a minor but significant permit they refused to grant last year—weighed in on an attachment to a massive military appropriations bill that would give Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth unprecedented powers of eminent domain to condemn any property that Sable needs unfettered access to in order to keep its operation at Las Flores Canyon humming in the face of potential regulatory interference by any agency of county or state government. The language was inserted into the omnibus military spending bill by a Republican congressmember from Houston, Sable’s home district. That attachment managed to pass the House by one vote and has been referred on to the Senate, where it has yet to be voted on. CONT’D ON PAGE 8

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

As gas prices soar across the state, the sign at the Fuel Depot gas station on Storke Road in Goleta flashed $3 per gallon for 87 grade gas on 9/22. Candidate Steve Hilton, running as a Republican against Democrat Xavier Becerra to replace Governor Gavin Newsom in the 11/3 election, was at the station pumping gas for constituents in an attempt to sway their vote. His campaign paid the difference in price — 87 grade fuel was priced at $5.86 per gallon at the station — for 150 cars, providing up to 12 gallons of gas. “If I am governor, this is every day,” said Hilton, wearing a “$3.00 gas is on me” shirt and a Charlie Kirk tribute wristband. Tuesday’s Goleta gas price drop was the first time the campaign has offered this deal, with Hilton promising more locations across the state to follow.

LABOR Drivers honked horns in support as the City of Solvang’s unionized workers stood at the picket line at Solvang Park on 9/21, which marked their seventh day on strike to demand better pay. Solvang’s 30 unionized employees, who make up most of the city’s staff, belong to the Teamsters Local 986 Union. They are seeking a 4 percent increase this year, followed by a 6 percent increase in the two consecutive years. The city council rejected that offer on 9/14 and countered with a “last, best, final” contract offer of a 6 percent cost-of-living raise the first contract year, followed by a 4 percent cost-of-living raise the following two years, which the union rejected. Solvang’s City Council next meets on 9/28.

ENVIRONMENT An internal federal memo, dated 9/14 and obtained by The New York Times, outlines a new interpretation of the Endangered Species Act’s language: the accidental killing or injury of an animal would no longer be considered illegal; only specifically intending to target the animal would. The most jarring example: if a logger cuts down a tree, knowing that there are endangered bats roosting in its canopy, that logger would no longer be held responsible for killing those animals. While the Department of the Interior has not answered questions CONT’D ON PAGE 8

INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

SEPT. 17-24, 2026

BRIEFS

CONT’D FROM P.7

about why it was adopting the new interpretation or when the memo would take effect, environmental groups around the globe are sounding the alarm, stating that it is an “assault” on the act and the wildlife it protects.

COURTS & CRIME T R AC Y L E H R

PUBLIC SAFETY

J O H N PA L M I N T E R I K E Y T

presents

standards to be less restrictive, supporting agriculture and home gardening while protecting human neighbors and native pollinators, said Gina Fischer, chief of staff for Supervisor Joan Hartmann, who sponsored the item.

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On 9/15 at about 9:30 p.m., two Santa Barbara Police officers en route to assist a fellow officer crashed their police vehicles into one another at the intersection of Anacapa and Cota streets, leaving both officers injured. The two officers had been dispatched under a Code 3, meaning they had sirens blaring and were authorized to disobey traffic laws to get to the scene quickly, according to SBPD commander Nathan Beltran. The incident they were responding to was a fellow officer outside a bar on State Street “who had an uncooperative suspect and required urgent backup.” No other passengers, cars, or pedestrians were involved in the collision. Both vehicles had their airbags deployed and hoods crumpled, and both the injured officers were transported to Cottage Hospital for treatment. As of 9/17, they have been released and were recovering from home. Beltran said that both vehicles are insured, and that SBPD may be on the hook for up to $20,000 — a $10,000 deductible per vehicle — after a full assessment of the damage to the cars.

COUNTY On 9/22, the Board of Supervisors took the first step toward ordinance changes that would allow “appropriately scaled” beekeeping in unincorporated areas of the county. Beekeepers, in places such as Summerland, Isla Vista, and the Santa Ynez Valley, have long complained of unfair restrictions that have prevented them from maintaining hives on their properties. The changes are meant to change

SABLE This Tuesday, Congressmember Salud Carbajal testified in front of the supervisors in favor of their resolution condemning the military spending bill measure. “Congress should not use the National Defense Authorization Act to create a special federal pathway around California law for one pipeline — one private interest project,” he stated. Supervisor Bob Nelson said he ordinarily would oppose any such federal intervention in local matters but said in this case, he did not believe the Sable’s environmental opponents and the multitude of state regulatory agencies and non-governmental entities had been acting in good faith in terms of regulatory hurdles they were erecting in Sable’s path. Had they allowed

On 9/21 around 6:15 p.m., police officers responded to the 1700 block of Chapala Street for a report of a minor-injury rollover traffic collision. Officers arrived on scene and located the driver and a young child in a car seat. S.B. Fire Department assisted in getting the driver and child safely out of the vehicle, and paramedics treated them. The initial investigation found the vehicle was traveling north on Chapala Street when it collided with two vehicles parked on the west side of the street. The collision caused the vehicle to roll onto its side. The driver and the child were transported to Cottage Hospital for evaluation. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the driver of the vehicle was under the influence of alcohol and was arrested. The driver was identified as Ashley Marie Benson, 40, of S.B. The driver was transported to County Jail and booked on felony DUI and felony child endangerment. Bail is $100,000. Sheriff’s deputies arrested a suspect in connection with the 2025 sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl near Casitas Pass Road and Via Real in Carpinteria. In March 2025, the victim reported that she was walking home when an unknown suspect approached her and allegedly sexually assaulted her at knifepoint in a landscaped area near the bike path. Detectives began investigating and collected forensic evidence that was submitted for DNA analysis. During the investigation, detectives developed probable cause and obtained a Ramey warrant for the arrest of Saul Estrada Munoz, 27, of S.B. on suspicion of forcible rape, kidnapping CONT’D ON PAGE 10

CONT’D FROM P.7 Sable — or its predecessor Exxon — to build a new and safe pipeline in the aftermath of the 2015 spill, none of this would have happened, he said. When the state intervened to block Sable, Nelson argued, Sable responded by enlisting the aid of the White House. Supervisor Steve Lavagnino, usually the other reliably pro-oil vote on the board, voted in favor of the resolution condemning the federal intervention, as did Supervisors Laura Capps and Roy Lee. Supervisor Joan Hartmann was recused from participating because her home is sufficiently close to the Sable pipeline as to constitute a conflict of interest. For the time being, Sable is digging again. n

NEWS of the WEEK CONT’D

‘One, You’re Done’

because they rely on expensive precious metals such as palladium, platinum, and rhodium to oxidize noxious fumes created by the internal combustion process, the converters have become easy prey for anyone with a portable saw, larcenous intent, and the agility to quickly scoot in and out from under the belly of a car. According to the county’s new ordinance, first offenders will now be liable for up to one year behind bars or a $1,000 fine. Second offenses carry $4,000 fines and third offenses cost $5,000. Terrell was on hand this Tuesday to applaud the supervisors shortly after they just applauded him. “As I like to say,” he said, —Nick Welsh “one, you’re done.”

esponding to the indefatigable energy of a Riverside crusader whose coworker had his catalytic converter stolen in broad daylight, the Santa Barbara County supervisors voted unanimously on Tuesday to enact a new ordinance making the possession of just one catalytic converter without proof of ownership grounds for criminal prosecution. Under existing state law, a person is allowed up to nine catalytic converters without a legal explanation before criminal action is called for. Although catalytic converter theft is widespread, Santa Barbara County doesn’t have reliable statistics. Many victims — such as Supervisor Bob Nelson — never reported the theft. Supervisor Steve Lavagnino was moved to action by the urgent intercessions of Daryl Terrell of Riverside, who last March pleaded with the county supervisors to make Santa Barbara County the ninth county in California to plug the massive loopholes in state law. Catalytic converters have become standard issue for all but electric cars since 1975, when the EPA ordered them installed to bring down automobile tailpipe emissions. As anti-pollution Catalytic converters, saws, and jacks were confiscated from a trio devices, converters have been of alleged thieves caught after reportedly sawing off a catalytic spectacularly successful. But converter from a car in Carpinteria.

RENT STABILIZATION Harmon wanted the city’s ordinance to include two exemptions recommended by the city’s Housing Authority, arguing that units managed by Housing Authority and deed-restricted Section 8 voucher units were already regulated and should not be subject to additional restrictions. She said she would not vote for the ordinance if it didn’t include the exemptions, saying it was her “red line.” Santamaria, who was elected on a campaign centered on rent stabilization, worried that broadly exempting all affordable housing units could leave tenants without protections should their deed-restricted units fall into disrepair. She said she would support the exemptions, but only if the ordinance allowed for these tenants to file petitions for habitability concerns. When Santamaria proposed including a petition process for these tenants, Harmon stood firm and it seemed as if the long-planned ordinance might fail at the finish line. Santamaria pushed back, asking Harmon: “So we’re saying we don’t want to protect tenants in Section 8 and affordable housing units when it comes to habitability?” “No,” Harmon replied. “What we’re saying is there’s already a system to access and deal with habitability concerns that currently exists.” Santamaria snapped back: “That isn’t working, unfortunately.” The council attempted a series of votes, with Santamaria’s suggestion of exempting affordable units but allowing petitions for the tenants failing 3-4. Councilmembers

CONT’D FROM P.7 Santamaria, Kristen Sneddon, and Oscar Gutierrez voted in favor, but Councilmember Harmon joined Mayor Randy Rowse and Councilmembers Eric Friedman and Mike Jordan in voting the motion down. The next two votes produced 4-3 votes, but with two different groups voting in favor. The first vote, to simply approve the ordinance as recommended by staff (with small tweaks to language) was approved by Councilmembers Harmon, Santamaria, Sneddon, and Gutierrez. For the second vote, to add the exemptions as recommended by the Housing Authority without the petitions, a new majority of Councilmembers Harmon, Friedman, Jordan, and Sneddon voted in favor. Councilmember Santamaria and Gutierrez voted in opposition with Mayor Rowse. It was a strange twist to a grueling planning process, forcing councilmembers to take opposing sides on issues they might usually agree upon. Councilmembers Santamaria and Gutierrez voted in favor of the ordinance, but against the exemptions as proposed by Harmon. Friedman and Jordan both voted against the ordinance, but supported the affordable exemptions. Mayor Rowse voted against both. Harmon and Sneddon were the only members of the council to vote yes on both motions. Sneddon, who is running for mayor, has been consistent in her support of rent stabilization since she was first elected to council in 2017. During Tuesday’s hearing, she said she CONT’D ON PAGE 11

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LOMPOC

S A N TA B A R B A R A S H E R I F F ’S O F F I C E

Councilmember Avoids Censure

Lompoc Councilmember Stephen Bridge

ompoc City Councilmember Stephen Bridge narrowly escaped a formal rebuke from his colleagues last week after a motion to censure him over pending criminal charges ended in a 2-2 tie. Bridge faces 25 counts — 20 felonies and five misdemeanors — stemming from allegations that he improperly obtained public money through city rebate programs for energy-efficient lighting and water-leak repairs. He has pleaded not guilty. Councilmember Jeremy Ball, who has pushed for the council to publicly address the allegations for months, argued that a censure would signal that elected officials are expected to uphold higher ethical standards. He acknowledged the measure would carry no legal penalty but said it could help restore public trust. During the meeting, Ball cited statements Bridge reportedly made to an investigator about using the name and license number of an inactive contractor on a rebate application for work performed by Bridge’s stepson, who was not a licensed contractor. Bridge responded that his remarks had been taken out of context and said the criminal case should be resolved in court.

Bridge also delivered a lengthy statement defending himself and criticizing the prosecution. He said he believes he was targeted after questioning city policies, taxes, and regulations and described the criminal justice system as exerting enormous pressure on defendants to accept plea agreements. Bridge said the charges have cost him his job with an aerospace contractor at Vandenberg Space Force Base and forced him to draw from retirement savings. Mayor Jim Mosby opposed the censure and questioned whether shortcomings in the city’s review of rebate applications contributed to the situation. Councilmember Dirk Starbuck also voted against the proposal. Ball and Councilmember Victor Vega voted in favor, while Bridge abstained, leaving the motion deadlocked and therefore defeated. The outcome drew angry reactions from some residents in the crowded council chambers, including shouts of “shame.” Bridge is scheduled to return to Lompoc Superior Court on October 22, when a judge could consider a defense request to dismiss some or all of the charges. No —Tyler Hayden trial date has been set.

BRIEFS to commit rape, and making criminal threats. The warrant also included an allegation that a deadly weapon was used during the sexual assault. On 9/21 at approximately 1:23 p.m., Estrada Munoz was located and arrested in the 300 block of West Arrellaga Street in S.B. with the assistance of S.B. Police. He was booked at County Jail, where he is being held on $1 million bail.

CITY On 9/22, the S.B. City Council heard an update on the city’s preparedness efforts for the potential winter storm season and El Niño–related weather. City Fire Chief Chris Mailes and Public Works staff outlined the city’s plans for preparations, public messaging, emergency response, and details of the city’s coordination with other agencies. Todd Hall, a warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service, gave a presentation regarding El Niño weather this winter. He noted that preparation talks often look into worst-case scenarios, leading to misinformation about the potential impact of weather phenomena. The city will be preparing for the potential of significant rainfall, flooding, 10

THE INDEPENDENT

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

INDEPENDENT.COM

CONT’D FROM P.8 debris accumulation, erosion, stormwater system impacts, road closures, and other weather-related emergencies. Current work included storm system inspection and maintenance, creek maintenance, and review of the city’s emergency response protocols, staffing, and facilities availability.

HOUSING The City of Santa Barbara is loaning $1 million to the city’s Housing Authority to help build employee housing for the S.B. Unified School District. Thanks to the loan, approved by the City Council on 9/22, the district and the city’s Housing Authority can develop 30 units for district employees at the site of the former Lawrence M. Parma School at 915 East Montecito Street, which closed in 1989. The city’s loan will buttress the development of 30 units for teachers and staff making between 30 to 60 percent of the area median income. Per the conditions of the loan, the development must maintain these affordability restrictions for 90 years. The project is currently in the permitting process, with construction expected to be completed by May 2029. n

ISLA VISTA

NEWS of the WEEK CONT’D

El Niño Threatens Cliff Collapse

RENT STABILIZATION understood the risk of not earning approval and said she was willing to be flexible if necessary to get the ordinance approved on schedule. She was in favor of the Housing Authority exemptions, with the assurance that any unit that went above affordability standards would automatically be subject to the ordinance. “I want to see this pass,” she said. During deliberations, Sneddon said she would even support a less strict flat 3 percent cap rate — a last-minute change that had been discussed around City Hall but never officially pursued. Sneddon didn’t go as far as proposing the change in a motion, and the version approved by council included the previously agreed-upon rate set at 60 percent of the Consumer Price Index, or 3 percent, whichever is lower.

INGRID BOSTROM

CSB’s fall quarter starts this week, and the cliff homes on Isla Vista’s most famous street, quiet for the summer months, are full again. Meanwhile, thousands of miles south, a deep, massive pool of warm water has built up in the Tropical Pacific, triggering the phenomenon commonly called El Niño. El Niño years often mean heavy rainfall in southern California — the kind of rain that could cause massive chunks of Isla Vista’s cliff to fall to the waves below, taking balconies, patios, or whatever else is above along with it. This year, scientists are predicting one of the In February 2024, 45 tenants were evacuated from a property in the 6700 block of Del Playa Drive after the property’s balcony collapsed due strongest El Niños ever. Students recognize the to erosion. problem. On Del Playa, one tenant who lives in a home on the cliff their own measurements twice annutold the Independent that he’s watched the ally. Currently, Plowman said, the county house’s backyard disappear since starting receives measurements on how far buildschool at UCSB. ings are from the cliff ’s edge when prop“Erosion’s always kind of in the back of erty owners apply to cut off part of their structures as they get closer to the unstable your mind,” he said. Developer and I.V. property owner Ed cliff ’s edge. At the September 1 Board of St. George said that his goal is to make sure Supervisors meeting, Plowman said that water runs into the street, not down the no property owner had voluntarily submitside of the cliff where it will further erode ted the measurements. St. George said he the cliff ’s edge behind his properties. Fail- was not aware of this requirement. ing to keep the gutters clean, he said, does Supervisor Laura Capps, whose district includes I.V., told the Independent she’s just that. Ahead of storms, sheriff ’s deputies go extremely concerned about erosion to door-to-door with notices to inform resi- the bluff. She said that property rights are dents of the risk, said Planning Director strong and should be but that the risk of Lisa Plowman. Plowman said that county injury or disaster is high. “We have so much educating to do,” officials walk the beach to check for erosion after storms and fly drones to take Capps said. She added that each year, a new measurements quarterly. crop of college-aged tenants takes up resiSanta Barbara County is looking dence and party on Del Playa Drive. While for more data on the bluff ’s erosion. In locals may hear about bluff safety each 2024, the county updated its bluff policy, year, the risk can be new to these tenants. requesting that property owners submit —Christina McDermott

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SEPT. 17-24, 2026

ELECTION 2026

NEWS of the WEEK

Mayoral Race Ramps Up

INGRID BOSTROM, SBUSD

What to Know Ahead of Sept. 30 Forum

Mayoral candidates (from left) Kristen Sneddon, Wendy Sims-Moten, and Eric Friedman

by Ryan P. Cruz

s Election Day approaches, the candidates running for Santa Barbara mayor have been ramping up campaign efforts, collecting public endorsements, raising funds, and making the rounds to speak at community forums and town hall events. The Santa Barbara Independent is hosting our own Mayoral Candidate Forum at the Alhecama Theatre on Wednesday, September 30, where voters will have a chance to hear from the three leading candidates — Eric Friedman, Wendy SimsMoten, and Kristen Sneddon. This forum is free to the public, and while all seats have already been reserved, the event will be livestreamed to both our YouTube and Instagram pages, and the entire recording will be available in full on our website for anyone unable to attend in person.

WHO ARE THE CANDIDATES?

After current mayor Randy Rowse dropped his plans to run for reelection, three leading candidates have emerged as the most viable contenders to fill his soon-to-be-empty seat at the head of council. Two of these candidates, Sneddon and Friedman, are sitting councilmembers twice elected by their respective districts. Sneddon and Friedman represent either side of the ideological divide on City Council. Both are lifelong Democrats, though they have navigated different pathways during their council terms, with Sneddon taking a more progressive leadership stance on city issues such as rent stabilization, while Friedman emerged as a moderating voice willing to push back on items such as the city budget. Friedman has raised more than six figures, with large donations from business owners, real estate agents, investors, architects, contractors, land use consultants, and one maximum donation of $5,900 from billionaire real estate developer Herb Simon, majority owner of the NBA’s Indiana Pacers and the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. Sneddon has raised at least $70,000, with contributions from three former mayors, members of city review boards, housing advocates, historic preservationists, and a recent $2,000 donation from Shatter PAC, a grassroots Central Coast committee that raises money for Democratic women running for office. Sims-Moten, a former school board-

member and longtime director of the First 5 program, is taking on both candidates, making a run for mayor to offer a fresh perspective on the divisive issues that have dominated City Hall. While Sims-Moten has not announced any endorsements or filed major campaign contributions, she has gained community support through on-the-ground campaign efforts.

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WHERE DO THEY STAND ON BIG ISSUES? This election cycle has been dominated by discussion over the hot topics of rent stabilization, State Street, and the city budget. Sneddon’s campaign has mirrored her time on City Council, with consistent support for a strong rent stabilization ordinance, which she helped steer to its current drafted version. She has repeatedly voted in favor of keeping State Street closed to cars, and has a history of calling for a permanent source of funding for the city’s Local Housing Trust Fund. Friedman has voted against the proposed rent stabilization ordinance throughout the planning process, saying the current version is much too strict and could cause unintended consequences to the city’s already volatile rental market. He pushed for a different approach to State Street, floating the idea of a half-open/ half-closed model. He has been critical of the city’s budget planning, and raised concerns about taking on large-scale projects while the city is dealing with depleted reserve funds. Sims-Moten has spoken in support of rent stabilization as a way to keep families in their homes, giving the city stability to address the roots of the housing crisis. She has questioned the motivations behind the State Street Master Plan, asking if residents and workers of downtown were truly considered in the planning process. She said she would use her experience on the school board with navigating the city budget, and that she would not support any new taxes that would impact residents. Editor’s Note: Santa Barbara resident Mathhew Kilrain, known as “Boat Rat Matt,” is also running for mayor of Santa Barbara. Kilrain has not claimed any campaign donations or endorsements. Kilrain previously ran for mayor in 2021, when he finished sixth out of six candidates with 0.68 percent of the vote.

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Opinions

ANGRY POODLE BARBECUE

Stray Dog Blues IT ISN’T PRETTY: Whatever happened late Tuesday night in the City Council chambers was a whole lot of things. Historic? Monumental? Seismic? All of the above. But

pretty? Not even in the same area code. With Tuesday night’s vote, the fat lady has sung. But it still ain’t over. Next week, the City of Santa Barbara’s mayor and six councilmembers have to do it all again. The “all” here refers to the new jam-packed Rent Stabilization Ordinance the council passed — though just barely — this Tuesday’s long-day’s-journey-into-night. Whatever passes for consensus among the councilmembers nearly blew up multiple times over whether affordable housing developments and housing units rented to tenants who receive Section 8 Housing vouchers should be exempted from the new ordinance’s many complex and far-reaching protections. Neither councilmember Meagan Harmon nor Wendy Santamaria — two of the council’s most ardent proponents of rent stabilization — would budge. Things got all Sergio Leone. The only thing missing was the tumbling tumbleweed. Harmon insisted that federal law already baked rent control and below-market rents into the Housing Authority’s rental rates. To add yet another layer of regulatory bureaucracy, Harmon warned, would chase away the landlords whose properties are desperately needed to house tenants with Section

8 vouchers. Santamaria countered that the Housing Authority’s track record of turning a blind eye when inspecting the premises of Section 8 tenants was troubling. What are we saying, she asked, that we don’t care about such tenants? In the end, Harmon, who has been pushing for rent control long before Santamaria was ever elected, prevailed. The Housing Authority and Section 8 housing providers will be exempt. It’s hard to write about this ordinance because it has so many movable parts. Most immediately, it limits landlords to rent increases no greater than 60 percent over the consumer price index or 3 percent, whichever is less. That’s among the lowest formulas throughout the state. If landlords object that that will not allow for a reasonable rate of return, they can take their case to a new rent board. That appeals process will take almost a year to complete. Of the board’s seven members, the new ordinance requires that at least four be tenants. The ordinance does not require any specified number of landlord representatives on the new panel. Stacked deck? Why not empanel an even number of each with an odd number of homeowners to break the tie? Not one councilmember broached that question. Councilmember and ardent rent stabilization proponent Kristen Sneddon — now running for mayor — expressed surprise to learn last night just how complicated and messy it

will be to figure out what is or is not a fair rate of return. Frankly, I was surprised to learn she’s surprised. Tuesday night seemed really late in the game for this sort of realization, considering that Kristen has been involved in this process going on nine years now. Seems kind of basic. There were a lot of other surprises. For example, it is expected on average to cost $27,000 to complete this rateof-return appeals process. We have no real idea how many landlords will file an appeal, but inside City Hall, they’re squeezing out porcupines over this. Under the ordinance, there is another appeals process to determine how much landlords are entitled to recoup for necessary capital costs. Those appeals are expecting to cost $13,400. And lastly, the ordinance allows tenants concerned they’re no longer getting the same level of service — or habitability — to file an appeal with the new rental board to get their rents lowered. We have no idea how much these appeals will cost. Or how many there will be. But we do know that in a typical year, the city’s code enforcement officers currently handle 1,600 code enforcement investigations that can take up to 18 months. And there are currently two vacancies in the department handling these investigations. The ordinance the council tentatively approved Tuesday night is not the most aggressive, comprehensive, and expansive ordinance in the entire state. It is, however, right up there at the top. And it is by far the most sprawling and aggressive right out the gate. Other communities started smaller and expanded over time; Santa Barbara is starting

big with the idea of modifying as it goes.

Don’t get me wrong. I think rent control is a necessary evil in a housing market as rabid as ours. When we cease blushing at the excess and the escalating inequalities, rent control becomes necessary and inevitable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the amount of wealth accruing to American workers has just fallen to the lowest level since 1947. In the past 25 years, after-tax corporate profits have risen 800 percent. In that same period, labor’s slice of the pie has shrunk 18 percent. Supporting rent control in general is one thing. Supporting this proposal is another. As a kid, I was taught not to eat anything bigger than my head; this is more like a basketball. Early on, we were told the costs for administering this program — initially projected at $154 per unit — would be split evenly between tenants and landlords. Now, we learn the costs for all these appeals — $27,000 for rate of return, $13,400 for capital expenditures, and who the hell knows how much for habitability appeals — has not been included in that $154 figure. One thing’s for certain: It’s going to be a lot more. Imagine how nasty collecting that will get. In the meantime, City Hall will be on the hook for an indeterminate amount. That’s what’s called a blank check. Next Tuesday, the ordinance comes back for a second reading and a final vote. Councilmembers have gotten as sick of the issue as they are of themselves. Hard to imagine any last-minute corrective efforts. —Nick Welsh Surprise me.

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OPINIONS CONT’D “TRUMP PRESS BAN BACKFIRES” BY RICK MCKEE, CAGLECARTOONS.COM

Letters

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n the middle of a public hearing about whether Santa Barbara should hand its streets over to a new fleet of AI-powered surveillance cameras, a city official’s hot mic caught the quiet part being said out loud: “Shut the fuck up,” aimed at a member of the public who had just told the mayor to “show some respect first.” Councilmember Mike Jordan volunteered, unprompted, that it was probably him, muttered, he says, while he was mid-conversation with the police chief. The problem is what Jordan did next. Instead of apologizing to Ana Garcia, the community organizer the remark was aimed at, a woman who was pepper-sprayed that day by ICE agents while documenting immigration enforcement at the county jail, Jordan sent an email that did not walk anything back. He told her she seemed to think she had the right to talk however she wanted at people “but they don’t have the same right to talk right back,” accused her of hiding behind “skin color, gender, and age comments,” and mused that she was “purposely alienating those who would assist you,” leaving behind a “scorched” landscape for others to clean up. This happened, worth remembering, during a hearing about monitoring city residents, a policy the public commenter stood up to oppose. Whatever Jordan intended, the moment landed as exactly the message critics feared: that people asking hard questions about surveillance and power are, in the view of at least one person with a vote on the dais, supposed to shut up and let it happen. Residents show up to these meetings because they still believe their voice matters. Mike Jordan just told one of them, on the record, that it doesn’t. —Andrew Doran, S.B. He should resign.

Affordable Coastal Access

costs. According to Airbnb, a family of four or more saves an average of $365 on a three-night stay compared with other lodging options. Now the Santa Barbara City Council is considering restrictions that could dramatically reduce STR availability. City staff estimate Santa Barbara could lose $2.7 million annually in transient occupancy tax revenue, while local restaurants, shops, and businesses could lose valuable visitor spending. There’s also an important coastal-access issue. California’s Coastal Commission recently required Pacifica to remove a primary-residence requirement and 60-night cap because those restrictions would reduce coastal visitor accommodations. Santa Barbara should learn from that experience. Neighborhood and housing concerns deserve serious consideration, but the answer should be balanced regulation—not eliminating affordable choices. California’s coast was meant to be accessible to everyone. Santa Barbara can protect its neighborhoods without allowing a visit to our coastline to become a privilege reserved primarily for those who can afford $600-a-night lodging. —Theo Kracke, S.B.

Supporting Eric Friedman for Mayor

he most important quality of a mayor is judgment. It is judgment informed by heart, as well as based on critical and objective thinking, not beholden to any political party. In addition, such a person is willing to bring people together through compromise in order to find solutions that benefit us all. Eric Friedman is such a person and that is why I am supporting him for mayor. —Hadley Johnson, S.B.

For the Record

¶ While Michael Eisner did have his wedding at anta Barbara’s coastline has long welcomed Bellosguardo as a news article last week stated, it families from across California to enjoy the mistakenly identified him to be former Disney CEO beach, explore State Street, support local businesses, Michael Eisner, which he is not. and make lasting memories. But rising travel costs are putting that experience increasingly out of reach. The Independent welcomes letters of less than 250 words Short-term rentals (STRs) help bridge that that include a daytime phone number for verification. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. Send to: Letters, S.B. affordability gap, especially for families needing Independent, 223 E. De la Guerra St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101; multiple bedrooms. Kitchens, parking, and other or fax: 965-5518; or email: letters@independent.com. Unabridged amenities can also substantially reduce vacation versions and more letters appear at independent.com/opinions.

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In Memoriam

Wendell Berry 1934-2026

He Spoke for the Land and the People Who Cared for It lucky, there might be one or two people whose words or presence permanently alter your path. Wendell Berry was one of them for me. I first met Wendell through his 1977 book, The Unsettling of America: Culture and Agriculture. I had only been farming for a few years, but that book helped put my work into a broader social, ecological, and cultural context. Through it I began to understand how a society, once rooted in the land, could, in such a short time, become so disconnected from it. Berry’s writing was a salve, it was redemptive, and it ignited a fire in me to continue doing work that while deeply rewarding was all-consuming and not always well-paid. Agriculture at that time was still viewed as a form of drudgery, not always respected as a profession. Early in my career, I remember a carload of teenagers screaming “dirt farmer” at me as they sped by the field where I worked. Fifty years later, I am amazed to see the opposite: eaters who desperately want a deeper connection with their food but hold a somewhat romantic view of those of us who produce it and what it takes to do so. Berry’s writing reinforced my belief that reclaiming our roots in agriculture was not some return to the past but an investment in our collective future. In the early 1970s, there were a small number of us who were pioneering a new agrarian movement. We viewed our work as a form of public service — for the land and for a society that needed to eat but no longer had any relationship with how their food came to them. Berry warned of the impacts that would occur when farmers are replaced with chemicals and machines, and he predicted one of the greatest unacknowledged national emergencies: that the 2 percent of us growing the food for the rest are aging out and not being replaced. This incredible imbalance, I believe, is at the heart of every problem in our food system. Wendell and his lifelong partner, Tanya, came to visit me when I was running Fairview Gardens farm in Goleta. Wes Jackson, who founded the Land Institute, had told him about this little farm surrounded by development, the amazing amount of food it was producing, and the numbers of new farmers it was training. I picked up Wendell and Tanya at the airport in an old Toyota pickup truck, embarrassed when I realized how difficult it was for him to pretzel his tall, lanky frame into that tiny cab. During the next few days, we talked, explored the region, and shared some wonderful meals. Wendell spoke to enthusiastic audiences at the university and at the farm. Over the years, as my own books found their way into the world, I had the opportunity to appear with Wendell at various venues around the country. He was one of the rare individuals who, in spite of his notoriety, remained humble and grounded. He would begin an answer to an audience question with “Well, I don’t know,” always baffled that people wanted to imbue him with some power he did not want to own. At an event in Louisville, Kentucky, a well-known political figure with a vastly different worldview showed up to pick a fight. Witnessing these two men in public dialogue was like a master class in diplomacy; their debate became infused with a willingness to really listen to each other and an acceptance of differences with respect. Wendell and I sat together on the stage at that event and took turns presenting. After reading an excerpt from my forthcoming book I left the podium and sat back down. He leaned in close, the audience watching, and whispered the kind of praise every writer dreams of hearing from such a literary giant. That acknowledgement carried me through numerous periods of self-doubt, and the ups and downs that

GUY MENDES

BY M I C H A E L A B L E M A N ver the course of a lifetime, if you are really

I suspect every writer experiences. saw in the world, and he was pointed in his critiques. But In 2003, I received a call from the Brown Forman com- he was not, as some of his critics suggested, stuck in some pany, one of the largest producers of spirits and wine, asking mythic golden past. He could see how civic responsibility if I would come speak at a sustainability conference. I was and rural values were being replaced with personal greed a little hesitant to participate in a conference sponsored by and consumption, and he implored us all to protect what the company that makes Jack Daniel’s. Sensing my hesita- little was left of the natural world and to devote ourselves tion, the caller told me that to a deeper relationship to “your friend Wendell Berry” the places and people where The loved ones we call the dead depart we lived. He could see how would be involved. My tone from us and for a while are absent. powerless we could feel in instantly changed. I told her I would get back to her and the face of the broader global And then as if called back by our love, called Wendell to get some dilemma, but he knew firstthey come near us again. They enter background. hand that we have enormous our dreams. “Michael,” he said, in his power close to home. beautiful Kentucky drawl, The day before Wendell We feel they have been near us when “these are good people, good died, without any knowledge we have not thought of them. people.” Then he added, “If of his condition or age, my you come, we’ll share a glass son Aaron asked me if I had They are simply here, simply waiting been in touch with him. It had of organic bourbon that has while we are distracted among our been in the barrels aging.” been years since I had comobligations. At last it comes to us: They municated with Wendell and What he didn’t reveal was live now in the permanent world. that bourbon was to be marTanya, so I thanked Aaron for the reminder and decided to keted as “Old Wendell” in his We are the absent ones. write them a letter. The next honor. After that conference, I —Wendell Berry day, I received word that Wendell had died. visited with Wendell and Tanya at their farm along the Kentucky River, their home There is an irony in writing about Wendell Berry on for more than six decades, and was introduced to the people his passing. He probably would not have wanted attention and the place that have informed so much of his writing. focused on him in death, just as he avoided it in life. But I could see that the natural and human communities in there must be a public honoring of such a life, one lived which Wendell spent much of his life were not just subjects so well, and an acknowledgement of the more than half a to be written about, they were who he was. I could also see century of inspiration he provided to so many of us through the power of simply “staying put,” an underlying theme in his words and his kindness. Obituaries honor the dead, but much of Berry’s writing, and how essential that is in really they are written for the living. knowing a place, knowing how to care for it, and in truly becoming part of it. Michael Ableman is a farmer, founder/director of the Center for Urban Wendell Berry did not hesitate to call out the outrages he Agriculture at Fairview Gardens, and author of numerous books and essays.

“

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INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

HARRISON EDWIN BULL, ESQ. 1940–2026

t is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Harrison Edwin Bull, Esq., beloved husband, father, grandfather, Marine, attorney, entrepreneur, and a man whose unmistakable voice and larger-than-life personality will never be forgotten. Harrison was born in Illinois in 1940 and was named after his grandfather, Harry Harmon Hogue. The second of five children, he grew up in Benton Harbor, Michigan, in a time and place he adored. Of all the people who shaped his life, Harrison’s grandmother was the person he admired most. Throughout his life he delighted in telling stories about her - how she could sew a quilt, bake a pie, and fix a tractor, seemingly able to do just about anything. Harrison told those stories often and with great affection. In sharing her stories, he made sure that her memory would live on through the generations. Harrison’s love of music and entertainment began early. He participated in musical theater in high school and remained a lifelong lover of musicals. At just 17 years old, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving his country and developing the tenacity, discipline, and fierce patriotism that would define him throughout his life. A passionate Constitutionalist, Harrison loved America. The Fourth of July was his favorite holiday. In 1961, Harrison married Lois Skibbe, and together they had three children: Lance, Laura, and Matthew. Harrison was an entrepreneur long before becoming an attorney. During the 1960s, he helped bring rock and roll to Michigan by operating teen dance clubs and presenting local and touring bands. His ventures included The Zodiac Club, The Bat Cave, The Blue Pooh, and the famous Ramona Palace dance pavilion at Ramona Park on Long Lake, which he renamed The Summer Place. His entrepreneurial adventures didn’t stop

18 THE INDEPENDENT

there. Harrison owned a restaurant called Bull’s Better Butter Burger, owned a radio station, and even ran for mayor of Kalamazoo, Michigan. In true Harrison fashion, the campaign became part of family lore: he came in last, finishing behind a candidate named Horsey who died during the campaign. The local newspaper reportedly captured the moment with the headline “Bull Finishes Behind Dead Horsey.” Harrison could appreciate the humor in a good story even when he was the punchline. Harrison graduated from Western Michigan University and moved to California in 1968, where the next chapters of his colorful life unfolded. Before and during those years, Harrison continued his entrepreneurial ways, including operating The Roadhouse 20, a bar near UC Santa Barbara. Harrison loved motorcycles and cars. He owned scores of automobiles throughout his lifetime, with a particular affection for classic cars and car shows. He also loved the freedom of the open road, whether behind the wheel or riding a Harley on Route 66. Harrison absolutely loved his doggies. They brought him tremendous happiness throughout his life. Above all, Harrison loved being a dad. He loved being a Cub Scout leader, Little League coach, and ever-present father. He attended law school, worked in the Santa Barbara D.A. office, and eventually established his law practice at 16 W. Mission Street in Santa Barbara, former home of Flying A Studios. After 25 years, he moved his law office to 1836 State Street, where he was Senior Managing Partner of Bull, Cohn & Associates. Harrison was President of Lawyers Mortgage & Investment Corporation and RE/MAX Santa Barbara/Montecito/Goleta. Harrison was an exceptional trial attorney, known for his commanding courtroom presence, tenacity, quick mind, and booming voice. His career included fascinating and high-profile cases, including involvement in Zsa Zsa Gabor’s widely publicized “slap-a-cop” case, which subsequently led to appearances on national television programs, including Geraldo and CNN. His voice was legendary. During one trial, a juror reportedly asked, “Please have Mr. Bull lower the volume on the microphone.” Harrison responded, “I am not using a microphone.” His seven grandchildren called him “Boompa.” In 1986, Harrison married Diana Caplan, beginning a marriage that would span 40 years. Diana soon earned her own special name from Harrison: “Bewe” - Best Wife Ever. Together they shared decades filled with family, road trips across all 50 states, motorcycles, cruises, and memories that will remain forever. His blended family was one of his greatest legacies. Harrison deeply loved his son Lance Bull (Virginia), daughter Laura Bull-Duddy (Dr. Blair), and son Matthew Bull (Goeril), as well as daughters Staci Caplan (Kaleo) and Stephanie Trager. “Boompa’s” words, stories, humor, opinions, and unmistakable voice will live on through

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 INDEPENDENT.COM

his seven grandchildren: Harrison Joseph Bull, Madeline Bull, Remington Bull, Gordon Duddy, Roxy Duddy, Aiden Trager and Elan Trager. Harrison is also survived by his brother Jim Bull (Cheryl), sister-in-law Georga Bull, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Bewe finds comfort imagining Harrison reunited in heaven with his family: his father, M. Gordon Bull (“Poppy”); his mother, Harriet Hogue (“Honey”); his brother John Bull; his sister Patti Stetler and her husband, John; his brother William (“Billy”) Bull, who passed within just days of learning of Harrison’s passing; and the generations of family before whose legacy in Michigan and Chicago meant so much to Harrison. Harrison could turn an ordinary experience into a story worth retelling and always left a lasting impression. His voice will echo in the hearts of those who loved him for generations to come. In honor of Harrison’s great love for animals and his devotion to veterans, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to one of two organizations close to his heart: Santa Barbara County Animal Care Foundation donations support foster programs, enrichment, specialized medical care, behavioral support, and lifesaving community services. Donate online at www.sbcanimalcare.org/donations. Checks may be made payable to Santa Barbara County Animal Care Foundation and mailed to: PO Box 307, Santa Maria, CA 93456. OR Tunnel to Towers Foundation, supporting America’s heroes, veterans, Gold Star families, and catastrophically injured service members through mortgage-free homes, housing assistance, and other supportive services. Donate online at www.dogood.t2t.org. Checks may be made payable to Tunnel to Towers Foundation and mailed to: 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306. Harrison will be honored and celebrated with n private services.

obituaries Joe Pompilio

01/03/1943-09/15/2026

Joseph Paul Pompilio, 83, passed away after a long, valiant battle with Parkinson's disease. Joe was born in Long Beach, California, and attended local, Catholic and military schools before going on to earn his degree from San Jose State University and continuing his graduate studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Joe spent 33 years as a school psychologist for Santa Barbara County schools, a career that let him spend a lifetime helping young people, many of them with special needs, work that suited his patience, his insight, and his genuine care for others. He also helped staff stay grounded and realistic about their jobs. Joe was loved and respected by both his students and the staff alike. He was known for his direct and honest assessment of situations. Joe was married previously and had one son, Jeffrey. In 1976, he married the love of his life, Penny, and in doing so gained two more young children, Trent and Lisa, whom he raised as his own and loved without reservation — a real father to them in every way that mattered. He was also a proud grandfather to three grandchildren, Blake, Danika, and Jonty, whom he loved dearly. Those who knew Joe knew him for his sharp wit, his wicked sense of humor, and a belly laugh that filled a room. People looked forward to simply being around him. He met life with real appetite —always ready to try a new food, a new place, a new experience, simply because it was there to be tried. He was, by his own cheerful admission, an adequate but never great bridge player, a poor golfer who liked a good walk, and an ok racquet ball player until his knees gave out. He never lost at ping pong, and his sharp mind made him a formidable Trivial Pursuit and Jeopardy player. He was also a wonderful cook. He loved music, old movies, chess, solitaire, and a good crossword. Even as Parkinson's took its toll, Joe found humor in difficult situations and remained positive until the end. Above all, he was a constant and devoted companion to Penny for over 50 years. Over the years, he had many animals. At the time of his death

To submit obituaries for publication, please call (805) 965-5205 or email obits@independent.com he had a rescue English bulldog Stormy whom he dearly loved. Joe was able to remain in the family home until the end, living his life to the fullest extent possible. Joe never set out to be extraordinary in any obvious way, but anyone who knew him will tell you he was one of a kind — a genuinely special guy, loved by everyone lucky enough to cross his path. At Joe's request, no formal service will be held. A celebration of life may be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to an animal welfare organization, a Parkinson's organization, or a veterans' organization of your choice.

David "Doc" Nipper

01/13/1944-09/03/2026

David “Doc” Allen Nipper passed away peacefully at home on September 3, 2026, at the age of 82. He was born January 13, 1944, in Long Beach, California. From a young age Doc knew he wanted to be a dentist. He graduated from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in 1970 and, with his former wife Lynda Nipper-Nelson, built a practice in Santa Barbara that served the community for more than fifty years until his retirement in 2020. Patients and colleagues remember not only his skill but his kindness, patience, and generosity. He approached each person as an artist would, taking time and leaving people more at ease than when they arrived. He had a creative and mechanical mind; it showed in everything he built, repaired, and modified. He loved camping in Big Sur, Formula One, automotive events and races at Laguna Seca, and riding his motorcycle on the weekends. Doc was a longtime member of SGI-USA and a dedicated practitioner of Nichiren Buddhism. He was a devoted partner to Lenore Palmer for the last 28 years. Together they shared a deep commitment to the peace and happiness of all living beings. David is survived by his brother, Steven J. Nipper; his children Steven B. Nipper, Lorien Nipper-Avila, and James Von Essen; his stepdaughter Natalie Schoer; and his granddaughters Jasmine and Juliet Avila. A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday, October 15, at 3:30 p.m. at the Cabrillo Pavilion.

Arthur Max Petersen 03/30/1924-09/14/2026

Our amazing and beloved Arthur Max Petersen, age 102, transitioned from this life for his heavenly home on Monday, September 14, 2026. He is now reunited with his one true-love and wife of 76 years, Gloria. Arthur was born to Gustavo Othon and Luz Sanchez Petersen on March 30, 1924 in Mexico City, Mexico. Arthur passed peacefully, at home, surrounded by his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his adoring children Arthur Robert “Bob,” Martha Linda, Sonia Marie, and Samuel Michael (wife Sandra), grandchildren Sonia Avila, Robert Petersen, Raquel Castellanos, Frances, Madeline, and Josephine Petersen, great-grandchildren Miranda Avila, Kelii (wife Elizabeth) Avila, and Dominic Petersen, and great-great-grandchildren Nathaniel, Elias, and Jesse Avila. Arthur is also survived by his loving sister-in-law Elvira Davis and many nieces and nephews. Arthur (aka Arturo) was the baby of seven children, four brothers and two sisters, all preceded in death. With his family, Arthur immigrated to San Antonio, Texas, when he was one year old. There he went to school, learned the English language, and helped his father, as a young teen, work in San Antonio’s first tortilla factory. As a teenager, Arthur attended Manual Arts High School in Los Angeles, and later moved to Santa Barbara to live with his older brother and sister-in-law, Anton and Elvira Petersen. Arthur (aka Art or Pete) entered the military in 1943 and completed basic training at Camp Roberts, Bradley California. When he saw a poster that the Army needed volunteers for the newly formed Paratroopers that paid $50/month extra, he asked “Where do I sign?” It was at paratrooper training at Camp Toccoa, Georgia, that he found out why he got that extra $50. The training was intensely grueling. Parachute School followed at Fort Benning, Georgia, where Art completed five practice jumps to qualify as a paratrooper. He earned the right to wear the paratrooper jump wings, and the distinctive shiny paratrooper boots. He was an original member of Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Infantry Division.

The Division was sent to England where another 9 months of training would ensue in preparation for the Allied Invasion of Europe. Still a Mexican citizen, Art and a few other soldiers were granted U.S. citizenship at the American Consulate in England just 18 days prior to D-Day, June 6, 1944. Art participated in several major battles: D-Day, Normandy, France - June 6, 1944, Carentan, France - June 10 - 14, 1944, Operation Market Garden, Netherlands - September 17, 1944, Battle of the Bulge, Bastogne, Belgium - December 1944, and the occupation of Eagle’s Nest, Berchtesgaden, Germany - May 1945. He was awarded two Purple Hearts for his injuries as well as several other medals for his service. At 102, Art was without a doubt, the last remaining survivor of the “Toccoa to Berchtesgaden” men – a distinction he carried with pride among the “Five-O-Sink” soldiers. In 2024, Art was honored with the Distinguished Member of the 506th Infantry Regiment (DMOR) award by the Battalion Commander. Arthur returned to Santa Barbara after the war and married his sweetheart, Gloria Davila. They raised their family in this beautiful beach town and Arthur established his own janitorial and residential cleaning business, Pacific Maintenance Service. He was an avid bowler and sponsored a team for a couple decades. Arthur and Gloria spent many summer vacations with their children at the Santa Barbara beaches, camping in Yosemite, backyard pool barbecues, and going to amusement parks. They traveled to many states across the U.S. and several countries in Europe, attending many WWII military reunions and memorial events. Arthur loved to give of himself in any way he could and liked to stay busy. He was an usher at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish and a Boy Scouts of America volunteer, to partake in activities with his two sons. He was a regular blood donor and volunteered twice a week for over 20 years at the SB VA Clinic. He found it important to speak to children at local elementary schools to keep the history of WWII alive. Art was also an active member in the VFW and the Military Order of the Purple Heart. He enjoyed distributing Buddy Poppies on Memorial Day and Veterans Day and participating in local patriotic parades with fellow veterans. In 2015, Arthur was presented with the French Legion of Honor Medal by the Consul General of France, for distinguished service in France during WWII. Our father always gave thanks to God for surviving the war. At times, he would question why. Why was he still here when so many young men were lost? It

was a question that had no clear answer. He was still here to tell the stories for those who could not and to live a good life to the fullest of his capability. Arthur and Gloria celebrated 76 years of marriage just two months before her passing in 2024. He missed her so very much these past 2 ½ years. Now they are together forever. Our family wishes to extend our thanks and gratitude to the wonderful doctors and nurses who cared for our father over the years. We are also extremely grateful to the Central Coast Hospice nurses, and the loving and dedicated caregivers who cared for our father. Funeral services and celebration of life to be announced by the family.

Velma Sanchez Tenoso 1952-2026

Wife-Mother-Friend Velma was a Santa Barbara native from a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother Teresa Boardman and by her brother Ernie Sanchez. Velma is survived by her husband of 55 years, Pete Tenoso Jr.; her two sons Paul and Daniel Tenoso; her brother Chris Scott, stepfather Dick Boardman; stepson Pete Tenoso III (wife Mary) and their sons Peter IV and Steven; and her sister-in-law Teresa Ledesma and family. Velma loved get-togethers with family and friends, baking, shopping for bargains at thrift stores and going to the Gem Faire, as she loved jewelry! She loved outdoor adventures including camping, boating, fishing and lake cruising or just nature walking observing the animals, especially the birds. Velma Retired from food services with the Santa Barbara City School District. Velma endured several health issues, some of which she could never overcome yet fought fiercely. In lieu of flowers: Please consider donating to: Sansum Diabetic Research Institute 2219 Bath St. Santa Barbara, CA 93105 Viewing will be Thursday September 24, 2026 4-8 pm at Welch-Ryc -Haider Mortuary 15 E. Sola St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101 Graveside services will be Friday September 25, 2026, 10:30 am at Calvary Cemetery 1999 N. Hope Ave. Santa Barbara, CA 93110 Continued on page 20

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obituaries Nancy Lynne Forster 12/22/1938-08/25/2026

Nancy Lynne Forster, 87, passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, at Serenity House in Santa Barbara. Nancy was born in Oakland, California and was adopted by a loving family in Stockton, California where she grew up. During her school years she became active in 4-H and her favorite project was raising pigs. She loved the outdoors and helping out on the family ranch. Nancy attended Chico State and was an Elementary school teacher in Stockton. She became interested in theater and enjoyed performing in local plays; musicals were her favorite. She had a beautiful voice and continued to sing in her church choir through the years. During this time, she met her husband, Keith. They were happily married for 47 years. They lived for a time in San Diego and Bakersfield but ultimately chose Santa Barbara as their permanent home. Nancy was active in her family’s business in Stockton and Humboldt County. She regularly volunteered at Transition House in Santa Barbara and supported various local charities. She was an active member of St Anthony’s church community as well. Nancy started traveling the world at the age of 17 and continued her love of travel throughout her life. She enjoyed trips to the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe and Asia with her husband and friends. Nancy was a cat lover and raised many fur babies over the years. We fondly remember Lacy, Dodger, Blackie, Ruby and Reuben. In 1995, Nancy was blessed to have been united with her biological sister after finding her with assistance from a genealogical service. Nancy found so much happiness in adding to her family and learning about her ancestry. She and her sister, June, took trips and spent a lot of time sharing stories, telling jokes, and talking politics. In her later years, Nancy moved to Samarkand, where she enjoyed meeting new friends, going to the gym, attending lectures and strolling the grounds with her great niece and children. She became part of a group of women 20

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To submit obituaries for publication, please call (805) 965-5205 or email obits@independent.com all named Nancy. There were 11 in total and she was #4! Nancy will be remembered for her calm and peaceful presence, a sharp mind and wit to match, generous and kind nature, being a good listener and a loyal and loving friend. Her sweet smile and warm hugs will be greatly missed. She is survived by her niece Lisa Gill and family, sister June Mowles and family, and was a devoted aunt, great- aunt and great-great aunt. She was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Leona Wagner, husband Keith Forster and brother Charles Wagner. Memorial donations can be made to Serenity House 930 Miramonte Dr. SB 93109 or The Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens 1212 Mission Canyon Rd SB 93105.

Marya Schulte

12/14/1976-08/27/2026

Dr. Marya T. Schulte was born December 14, 1976, passed away on August 27, 2026. Marya had been a top student all her life and achieved awards and honors throughout her education, from St. Raphaels School to Dos Pueblos High School in 1995. Marya attended UC San Diego where she was dedicated to reaching her goals as a student. She devoted many years toward her education and eventually earned her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from UC San Diego. She began her career helping veterans with addiction issues and PTSD. Later she shifted her work toward research in various studies. She also participated in a program utilizing an app to help obese teens with their weight issues. Marya was a kind and gentle soul. She loved her dog, a Frenchie, named Bean with all her heart. Bean now lives with her parents and will always remain a connection to their daughter. Marya was well loved by her family, friends, patients and anyone who was graced by knowing her. Marya is survived by her parents Henry and Dundie Schulte, her sister, Amber Schulte, her nephew Daxton Donati and niece Daylon Donati, her grandmother Maria Littmann and step-grandfather, Alex Littmann. Marya is also the granddaughter of Rudi Schulte, and Oscar and Johanna Nelson who preceded her in

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

death. There will be a memorial service October 7 at 10:30am at the Santa Ynez Mission in Solvang.

Henry Grant Coultas Jr. 01/08/1953-09/03/2026

Harry (Lynette), sister Lila Clark (Robert) and many nieces and nephews. There will be a celebration of Henry's life at Westmont college's physical plant on September 26, 2026 from noon to 3. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to St. Jude children's hospital, Sutter Health ridley-tree cancer center or the Burbank boxer rescue in his name or your favorite charity.

Judith E. Garvens

01/24/1941-09/09/2026 Henry Grant Coultas Jr. Of Lompoc, Ca passed away peacefully on September 3, 2026, with his wife by his side. Henry was a loving husband, father, brother and friend to everyone. Henry was born on January 8th, 1953 to Henry Grant Coultas Sr. and Fern in Port Hueneme, Ca. Henry was the oldest of 4 children. He was raised in Reseda, Ca and graduated high school there. He went to work as a plumber and spent the next 53 years doing what he loved. He married Sharon Daries in 1979 and was a father figure to her 2 young children, John and Kymberly. They later adopted another child together, Sam. After 35 years they parted ways. Henry married Julie on 4th of July 2016. They were true soulmates and they could do almost anything together. They loved traveling together whether that was to music festivals or to the Caribbean where they were married. Henry truly enjoyed life and flourished. All wasn't rosy though as they endured health challenges and living in Henry's 13 foot scamp trailer during the covid lockdown. They eventually moved to Lompoc and purchased a home together. Henry worked for Livingston plumbing in his early years and later for Douglas Wilson plumbing in Santa Barbara where he spent 25 years. He retired (or at least said he retired) but continued to work doing what he loved best. There wasn't a person he met that he wouldn't call " friend". He was loved by everyone he met. He was a strong man with a kind spirit and caring soul and will be sorely missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing him. Henry enjoyed gardening also and going to the dog park with his fur-son Baxter. Henry is preceded in death by his parents and brother Lester. Henry leaves behind his wife Julie, and step-son Nicholas. Also stepson John Reed (Heather) and stepdaughter Kymberly Bennett. And a son Samuel Coultas. Along with a step grandson, Blake. Brother

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Judith Erickson Garvens, who called Lafayette home for 50 years, died peacefully on September 9, 2026, in Santa Barbara, California. She was 85. Judy was born January 24, 1941, in Sacramento to Herbert and Eveleen Erickson and grew up in Oakland with her younger brother, Ed. Summers during her childhood were spent at her grandparents’ farm in Lake County, CA. She graduated from Fremont High School and went on to Stanford University, graduating in 1962 with a degree in psychology. While teaching elementary school in San Jose after college, Judy was set up on a blind date with Kent Garvens by mutual friends. One of their early dates was the Cal-Stanford Big Game. They married on July 23, 1966, and settled in Lafayette, where they raised their two children, Kathryn and Jeff, in a beloved home among the oak trees. As a young mother, Judy became active in the League of Women Voters. That involvement eventually led to many years of service to the City of Lafayette, first on the Parking Commission, then the Planning Commission, and later the City Council, where she also served as mayor. In 1997 she was named Lafayette’s Citizen of the Year. City colleagues appreciated her warm humor and ability to get to the heart of an issue. Judy brought these same qualities to her work at John F. Kennedy University and at the family business, Electro-Coatings. She was active in Lafayette United Methodist Church, Infinite Smile Sangha, Friends of the Lafayette Library, her book club, SMARTS investing club, and many other community groups over the years. An avid reader, she had shelves full of books on psychol-

ogy and spirituality. She walked countless miles on Lafayette trails, often with a friend or family member, and loved music, museums, Giants games, good food, long conversations and a good laugh. In a short biography she wrote late in life, Judy described her hobbies as “collecting friends, creating community, meditation, walking, reading, cooking, and taking an active interest in her children, grandchildren, and friends’ lives.” Judy and Kent traveled widely in their empty-nest years. They loved cooking and eating together, long drives through wide-open country, and their home at Sea Ranch, where they walked the bluffs and watched the sun rise and set. Lake Tahoe was another favorite place, especially Thanksgivings spent at the Garvens family cabin. Judy was devoted to her grandchildren. With one child’s family in Santa Barbara and the other in Texas, she made it a priority to bring everyone together regularly, helping create close relationships among the cousins despite the distance between them. She and Kent also took each grandchild on a special trip. Judy took an avid interest in her grandchildren’s lives, attending their games, plays and other activities. Judy had a gift for friendship. She listened closely, asked questions and was genuinely interested in people’s lives. Friends described her as smart, funny, thoughtful, practical, compassionate and completely without pretense. Her laugh was especially memorable. One friend wrote that Judy’s eyes smiled when she talked; another simply described her joy as contagious. Kent died unexpectedly in 2010 after 44 years of marriage. Judy remained in Lafayette until 2021, when she moved to Santa Barbara to be near Kathryn and her family. She spent her final years there, surrounded by family and lovingly cared for as her health declined. Her family is grateful for the kindness and care she received at Vista del Monte, Casa San Miguel, and Villa Alamar. Judy is survived by her daughter Kathryn Debruynkops (Peter); her son Jeffrey Garvens (Traci); grandchildren Annie, Will and Joe Debruynkops and Lily, Otto and Henry Garvens; step grandchildren Brittani Cardinale and Jeffrey Bushaw; her brother Edward Erickson; her sister-in-law Terry Garvens; and a close extended family including many nieces and nephews. A celebration of Judy’s life will be held on Saturday, January 23, at 10:00 a.m. in the Don Tatzin Community Hall at the Lafayette Library, 3491 Mount Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, CA 94549.

obituaries Paul Hernadi

11/09/1936-07/05/2026

Paul Hernadi (born Heimlich), a devoted father and accomplished scholar, passed away peacefully July 5, 2026, in Santa Barbara, California. He was 89. Paul was born in Budapest, Hungary in 1936 to Lajos Heimlich and Zsuzsanna Furedi, both of whom were concert pianists. During the war, Paul’s father was sent to a prison work camp run by the Hungarian government. During Nazi occupation, Paul’s mother obtained identity papers allowing her, Paul, and Paul’s baby brother Miklos, to avoid deportation and live in a children’s home run by the Swedish embassy. Later, Paul would be remembered as the young child who started a pretend school while in hiding. The family was reunited after the war, when they changed their name to Hernadi. Paul was a 20-year-old student in Budapest during the short-lived Hungarian Revolution of 1956. When Soviet troops invaded the country to crush the revolution, Paul packed his beloved collection of poetry and fled the country with his college friends and nearly 250,000 other Hungarians. Paul took shelter in Vienna, Austria, and soon enrolled in the University of Vienna to resume his studies in the history of theater. As a recipient of a US Rockefeller scholarship to study theater across Europe, Paul travelled to London, and in 1963 met Virginia Tucker, known as Jenny, a talented pianist from Texas who was a music student in London. In 1964, Paul and Jenny married in New Haven, Connecticut as Paul began his PhD studies at Yale. In 1965 he and Jenny returned to Vienna, where Paul simultaneously completed a second PhD at the University of Vienna. In 1966, they welcomed their first son, Charlie, who had Down’s Syndrome and required extensive care. In 1967, Paul, Jenny and Charlie moved to Colorado Springs, where Paul was an Assistant Professor of German at Colorado College. During his career, Paul held faculty positions at prestigious American universities, including the University of Rochester, the University of Iowa, and UCSB, where he retired in 2001. Paul

To submit obituaries for publication, please call (805) 965-5205 or email obits@independent.com wrote four books, contributed countless scholarly articles to journals of literary criticism and the history of theater, and organized conferences gathering scholars from all over the world. Although macular degeneration left Paul legally blind, he continued to write, play chess, make his voice heard on community development projects, and help care for his adult son Charlie. The Hernadi family would like to express their appreciation for the generous, courageous people who protected Paul and others during the darkest moments of the 20th century. Their family would not exist today if not for those in Hungary, Austria, and the United States who supported members of a marginalized group. Paul’s children and grandchild—as well as his brothers’ children and grandchildren—are a living legacy to that kindness. Paul is survived by Jenny in Santa Barbara; their son, Christopher and his family in McLean, Virginia; and, in Budapest, his brother, Andras, four nephews and nieces and their children. He is preceded in death by Charlie, (d. 2024); his brother Miklos (d. 2020); his father Lajos (d.1986); and his mother Zsuzsanna (d.1981). In lieu of a service, the family suggests that donations be made to Alpha Resource Center in Santa Barbara.

William Benjamin

11/22/1925-09/16/2026

Entrepreneurial Science Publisher, Dies at 100 William (“Bill”) Benjamin, a successful serial entrepreneur, content publisher and market validation expert, was a decorated military veteran who served in both WW II and The Korean War and died on September 16, 2026. He was the first academic publisher to offer stock options to his authors and science advisors who were leading scientists

from Caltech, Stanford, MIT and Harvard. Bill was born on November 22, 1925, in Providence, Kentucky, to Mary Leslie and Lucien Benjamin. He graduated from The University of Kentucky in 1950 with a combined degree in English and Journalism, and was immediately recalled to active military duty in Stuttgart, Germany where he served as the Editor of the Seventh Army newspaper and division PR officer. Earlier, in 1944-45, he had joined the army infantry and ultimately fought against the Germans in France, serving with the 42nd Rainbow Division. At the end of combat, Bill was awarded the Bronze Star for a successful voluntary I&R mission behind enemy lines in the battle for Strasbourg, France. Last year he was presented the Medal of Honor by the mayor of Strasbourg for his part in the battle to reclaim that city from its German occupancy. In 1952, Benjamin joined the College Department of the McGraw-Hill Book Company in New York City as a textbook salesperson and editorial scout and was subsequently promoted to textbook acquisition editor. He left McGraw-Hill in 1960 to start his own science publishing company, W. A. Benjamin, Inc. (WABI), that produced over the next ten years some 500 science textbooks, monographs and teaching aids including the works of 38 Nobel Prize winners in physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics. WABI was also the first college publisher to offer low-cost paperback versions of high-level monographs in order to reach the graduate student market and was acquired in 1970 by AddisonWesley. Renamed Benjamin-Cummings Publishing, it was in turn acquired by Pearson Publishing, the ultimate and present owner. Fulfilling a lifetime dream to live in Europe, learn another language, and participate in another political system, Bill migrated to France in 1971, a country he much admired through his wartime experiences there. In Paris, Benjamin launched his second company, The Center for Business Information (CBI) that provided American corporations with competitive information and research services on European companies. His staff developed and published a directory of European business information services, organized conferences on corporate competitive analysis, and provided French corporations with information on U.S. company operations. Benjamin also assisted the American CIA operatives in Paris with logistical support for State Secretary Kissinger’s successful peace treaty negotiations between Vietnam

and the USA, and the installation in Lisbon, Portugal of a Soviet operations surveillance service. In 1976, he was appointed by the Italian government to advise their commerce department on the design and production of online business and financial databases to support and extend their corporate information services. Decidedly homesick for weekend American football, genuine hamburgers, and a real milkshake, Benjamin merged CBI with a French competitor and moved to Boston in 1979 where he started a consulting firm called Business Research Corporation (BRC). They specialized in business database design and production and were initially engaged as content design consultants by the Harvard Business Review. They later provided online product research and design services to the Christian Science Monitor, Harper-Rowe, Atlantic Monthly, Paine Webber, INC Magazine and A.C. Nielson. In 1980, Bill developed and launched a new financial research database called INVESTEXT that provided online access to the stock and industry analysis reports from over 30 leading investment banking firms. This startup was later converted to an integrated financial research service delivered by satellite (FIRST CALL) and was acquired by Thomson-Reuters in 1981. A Harvard Business School case-study on the development strategy of BRC by Professor William Sahlman, a board member and consultant, was published in 1982. Hoping to escape the snowy winters of Boston, Bill moved once again to Santa Barbara, California in 1983, and switched his content publishing interests to online travel information. There he designed and produced the first PC travel guide on a floppy disk called TRAVELDATA that was aimed at corporate travelers and business travel agencies. American Express, American Airlines, OAG and Fielding Travel Guides subsequently deployed various versions of this electronic travel guide as an information tool for their subscribers and customers. Benjamin sold TRAVELDATA to Fielding Guides in 1985 and became a parttime consultant on new product market validation, and a full-time tennis player and annual voyager back to Provence, France. Throughout his business career Benjamin invested substantial personal time as a corporate director and board member to a number of non-profit organizations including NTIS, The Anderson School of Business and UCSB’s School of Engineering. He enjoyed serving as a student advisor on several entrepreneurial business plan

competitions, and on the Board of both the MIT Forum and the Botanical Garden in Santa Barbara. He was notably competitive as a mid-range tennis player at every stop in his many residences, and as a one-time runner-up senior squash champion in Paris. However, Bill’s real passion was his constant quest for a new and more interesting restaurant offering a native cuisine he had never tasted. Bill is survived by his daughter Michele who resides in Greenbrae, CA, and son Malcolm, who lives in Chico, CA. Bill is also survived by his sister, Barbara Jones of Greenville, SC.

Jacqueline Mae Donnell 10/11/1934-09/06/2026

Jackie Donnell went to be with the Lord on September 6, 2026. She was born in Santa Barbara, California, on October 11, 1934, the first child of George and Bernice Holsten. Jackie grew up in Carpinteria, graduated from Carpinteria High School, and attended Santa Barbara City College and the University of Oregon. She married John Donnell in 1953, and together they raised their three children in Goleta. Jackie worked for many years at the Goleta Library and later at the Valle Verde Retirement Center in Santa Barbara. Jackie and John were active members of Bethany Congregational Church and the Goleta Vineyard Fellowship, serving in several ministries there. In 2001, Jackie and John moved to Alpine, California, where John passed away in 2003 following an earlier stroke. Jackie’s love of gardening became a special part of her life, and she lovingly created beautiful gardens in both Alpine, and later at her daughter Julie’s home in Vandenberg Village. Jackie is survived by her daughter, Julie Moore of Lompoc; sons Steve Donnell of White Bird, Idaho, and Scott Donnell (Carolyn) of El Cajon; six grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers, Kenn Holsten (Christine) and Gary Holsten (Tonjua), and their families. She was preceded in death by her brother Bill Holsten. Jackie will be remembered for her deep faith, love of family, generous spirit, and the beauty she brought into the lives of those around her. Continued on page 22

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obituaries Michael Matisz-Cordero

03/30/1950-08/12/2026

Michael Alan Matisz -Cordero, 76,returned to his ancestors Wednesday, August 12 at his home in Carpinteria, surrounded by songs and family. Born in Santa Barbara on March 30, 1950 to Margaret Leyva Cordero and Daniel Cordero, he attended local schools, graduating from Santa Barbara High in 1968. He then attended the University of Santa Barbara, where he received his teaching credential. He later completed a Master’s degree through California State University, Northridge. Michael was a teacher for 40 plus years in Oxnard school district,where he was Teacher of the Year at Driffill School in the year 2000,besides getting many other awards and recognitions. He retired in 2012. He was a proud member of the Coastal Band of the Chumash Nation,descending from Maria Juana Jimenez of Syuxtun ( Santa Barbara) and for several years served as chairman of the band. He helped to bring back the tomol ( sea canoe) culture to the coast and paddled on the first canoe crossing to Limu ( Santa Cruz Island ) in 2001.He also assisted with many cultural and educational practices that were being brought back over the years,including the Story Circle on Cabrillo Boulevard. The center of Michael’s life was his family. He was a devoted husband and father. He was always attending whatever activities his children were up to. Michael also loved nature and during vacations from school he could be found camping and hiking with his wife and children around the area and throughout the West. His last vacations were to Lake Tahoe during the big snow a few years ago and to Alaska. In keeping with his commitments to nature and human rights,Michael served on County Council of the Santa Barbara County Green Party. Although a series of strokes put him in a wheelchair the last few years of his life, he still enjoyed being with his family, going on car trips, and playing with his grandchildren. Michael is survived by his wife of 41 years, Charisse , and his children : Diego ( Vanina) of 22

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To submit obituaries for publication, please call (805) 965-5205 or email obits@independent.com Carpinteria; Elias of Carpinteria, and Carmen (Omid) of Ventura. He is also survived by his grandchildren , Qashi and Nawani of Ventura,and an unborn grandchild from Diego and Vanina. He is also survived by a sister,Linda ( Steve) of Montana,sister-in-law, Barbara of Carpinteria, a brotherin-law,Chip of North Carolina, sister-in-law Joan ( Ron) of Virginia and numerous nieces and nephews. Finally, he is survived by his faithful Samoyed,Akina, who lay by his bed during his last days. He was pre-deceased by his parents Daniel Cordero and Margaret Leyva Cordero and by two brothers, Daniel and Reggie. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Kiyaqswalawin,Kok’o! We love you,Dad!

Norman Neil Habermann

05/07/1933-09/09/2026

Norman Neil Habermann, an incredible husband, father, grandfather, accomplished business leader, philanthropist, athlete, and friend to many. He died peacefully at home on September 9, 2026, at the age of 93. He lived a remarkable life defined by achievement, generosity, and—above all—a deep love for his family. Norm was born on May 7, 1933, in New Jersey, alongside his identical twin brother, Edward. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University, where he played basketball. His competitive spirit was perhaps never more evident than when he faced his twin brother Ed on the court—Ed playing for Johns Hopkins— Norm for Rutgers -an experience that combined two of Norm’s lifelong passions: family and athletics. He later earned his MBA from Golden Gate University in San Francisco. Norm served as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy before beginning an extraordinary career in the food service and restaurant

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

industry. Over several decades, he held senior executive positions, including COO and CEO, with prominent companies such as Kentucky Fried Chicken, Collins Foods International, Denny’s, Carrows Restaurant Inc., and W.R. Grace’s food group. While at W.R. Grace he lead a leveraged buyout becoming President and CEO of Restaurant Enterprises Group consisting of more than 1,000 fullservice restaurants across various categories. Even after retiring, Norm's entrepreneurial spirit never slowed. He joined the Board of Fine Host, based in Greenwich, Connecticut, and shortly thereafter became its Chairman and CEO, commuting weekly from Santa Barbara. Work was never simply about business for Norm—it was about people, building organizations, solving problems, and creating something meaningful. But Norm's greatest accomplishments were not found in a boardroom. Education and healthcare were central to Norm's commitment to giving back. He served as a Trustee of the UCSB Foundation and as its Chair from 1996–1997. He taught a class on entrepreneurship at UC Santa Barbara and was a longtime board member of the Santa Barbara Scholarship Foundation. He was a dedicated committee member at the Santa Barbara Foundation and as with all of his involvements was known to ask the tough questions with the goal of excellence. As a lifelong learner he believed deeply in the power of education to change lives and was generous with both his time and resources. One of his favorite quotes was after preparing yourself “….. a part of life is good luck and timing.” He was equally supportive of Jane's longstanding commitment to helping others through VNA Health and Serenity House. He was an enthusiastic sailor, competitive tennis player, and a deeply passionate golfer, having the great fortune of playing Augusta National and having a handful of ‘hole in ones.’ He was a longtime member of Birnam Wood Golf Club in Montecito, where he greatly enjoyed the many friendships he made on the golf course and in the gym. Above all, Norm was immensely proud of his family. He cherished his wife of more than 35 years, Jane; his sons, Scott (Alyssa) and Brett; and embraced Jane's children, Lisa (Mark) and Steve (Denile), as his own. He also took enormous joy in his grandchildren: Kate, Lauren, Max, Asher, and Bodi. His family was his greatest source of pride and happiness, and he treasured the time they spent together, the many dinners they shared, and the lives they built.

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Norm was a man of purpose beyond just business, as he measured his success much more by the lasting friendships he had, the community he gave generously back to, and the loving family he created with Jane. He was a man who accomplished a great deal— and was very grateful for all of it. In honor of Norman, donations to the Santa Barbara Scholarship Foundation and VNA Health would be deeply appreciated. The family will hold a private ceremony in celebration of Norm's life around his birthday on May 7th.

Mario Pezzati

06/18/1927-08/25/2026

99 years old Mario Pezzati passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and family on August 19, 2026, at Sarah House in Santa Barbara, California. Born June 18, 1927, to Mario Giacomo and Maddalena Giuseppina (Josephina) Pezzati in Santa Barbara, California. He attended local schools and Santa Barbara High School. Mario joined the Merchant Marine before graduating from high school, where he served on merchant ships in the South Pacific towards the end of WWII. He returned to Santa Barbara to finish his high school degree. Shortly after earning his degree, he joined the Army. He was stationed at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. After finishing basic training, he was assigned to the Arctic Proving Ground in Barrow Alaska, where he attained the rank of Sergeant. His unit tested heavy artillery and survival equipment. Mario returned to Santa Barbara to attend Santa Barbara Business School. In 1952 he met his future wife, Maura Donahoe. They were married at Our Lady of Sorrows in Santa Barbara on June 13, 1953. Shortly after, they moved to Paradise California and opened a hamburger and ice cream drivein restaurant with friends, Vivian and Audrey Burris. In Paradise California they were blessed with five children. In 1961, Mario became the manager of the first Sambo’s restaurant in Santa Rosa, California after he was trained by Sambo’s in Eugene, Oregon; Las Vegas, Nevada; and the original Sambo’s on Cabrillo Street in Santa Barbara, California. In 1968, he was transferred back to

Santa Barbara to work for M & F Meat Packing Company, a division of Sambo’s. After retiring due to a worksite injury, they moved to Bakersfield, California in 1989 to be closer to their grandchildren. Mario and Maura returned to Santa Barbara in 1997 to be with family and friends. They enjoyed traveling, going to Arnoldi’s Italian Restaurant (their favorite), the Boot Club, and spending time with family, friends, and their grandchildren. Mario was passionate about gardening and spent many enjoyable hours in his yard. He was also a fantastic cook and baker; everyone loved his cooking. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren, cooking and baking with them, and teaching them how to fish. As Mario’s health began to decline over the past few years, we were blessed to have home health caregivers Ashley and Jasmine come into our lives. They gave Mario such amazing love and care. All his children were also closely involved with his care. A special thank you to all the family, friends, and neighbors for your love and concern. Thank you, Pete and Norene, for everything you did. Mario loved spending time with you; he especially loved your homemade pizza. After a hospital stay in July 2026, Mario was transferred to Sarah House under hospice care. He was given such loving and compassionate care from the entire staff. Our entire family is so thankful for the help provided by the staff at Sarah House. Mario is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Maura Pezzati. He is also survived by his five children: Marla (Ugo) Arnoldi, Julie (Richard) Shupe, Cece Durant, Mario (Stephanie) Pezzati, Jr., and Michael Pezzati. Mario’s grandchildren who called him ‘Grandpa”, “Bapa”, and “Bob”, include Christopher Shupe, Giuseppe Arnoldi, Heather (Shupe) Castillo, Francesca (Arnoldi) Winebrenner, Nicholas Pezzati, Jennifer (Durant) Young, step-grandchild Shane Rosemark. Mario is also survived by greatgrandchild Spencer Shupe, niece Donna (Pezzati) Renkoski and many other relatives and friends. Mario was preceded in death by his brother Francis Pezzati, Francis Pezzati’s wife, Jane Pezzati; his cousin Rosemarie Anderson and her husband, Andy Anderson; and Rosemarie and Andy’s son, Jeffery Anderson. He accomplished many things, he lived an amazing life, was loved by all, and he will be dearly missed. Donations may be made in Mario Pezzati’s name to: Sarah House 2612 Modoc Road Santa Barbara, CA 93105

obituaries Andriana Christina Kolendrianos

08/30/1942-09/15/2026

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Andriana Christina Kolendrianos, whose life was defined by faith, family, music, service, and an extraordinary capacity to love. Andriana was born on August 30, 1942, in Flint, Michigan, to loving Greek immigrant parents, Mary & John Stamos. Along with her brother, James, she was raised with a deep appreciation for family, Faith, food, culture and a strong work ethic. Her father, an electrician by trade and a devoted Church Chanter, introduced Andriana to music at an early age which became one of the great loves of her life. Her beautiful voice and passion for music led her to the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she studied voice with renowned teacher Richard Miller and conducting with Maynard Klein. She earned a Bachelor of Music in Voice before continuing her education at California State University, Sacramento, where she received a Master’s Degree in Music with an emphasis in conducting. There, she studied voice with Julia Monroe and conducting with John Lewis. Music was never simply a profession for Andriana—it was a way of connecting with people and sharing something beautiful. She performed in operas and recitals, conducted choral concerts, and taught music and voice to students at both the university and high school levels. Throughout her life, she encouraged others to discover their own voices and the joy that music could bring. She changed many lives with her gift of music. In October 1967, at the age of 25, Andriana volunteered at the Greek Festival at the State Fairgrounds in Sacramento. There, she was introduced to a young man from Virginia, Ernest Kolendrianos, who was completing his training in Pediatrics and Pediatric Cardiology at Emory University in Atlanta. Ernest knew almost immediately that he had met his future soulmate. They were married in November 1968 in Sacramento, beginning a beautiful love story! Their first year of marriage, they

To submit obituaries for publication, please call (805) 965-5205 or email obits@independent.com drove in her 1966 Mustang to El Paso, Texas, where Ernest served a 2-year U.S. Army military obligation during the Vietnam War. They welcomed their first child, a son, Christopher, in February of 1970. In July 1971, Ernest and Andriana moved to Santa Barbara, California, where Ernest joined the Santa Barbara Medical Clinic and Andriana continued to teach voice privately and at the University level. Their second child, a daughter, Alexandra, was born in 1973. Andriana was an extraordinary mother. She led with her heart— with patience, kindness, encouragement, and a gentle almost angelic spirit that made her children feel deeply loved. The family took countless family adventures to Greece, Hawaii, Costa Rica and Beyond which will always remain a sweet memory in everyone’s hearts. She gave generously of herself to her community. She was involved with the Vieja Valley PTA, the Junior League, the National Charity League, and the Santa Barbara Music Club. She taught in the Santa Barbara City College Music Department and created popular performance classes that brought students together to present cabaret shows throughout Santa Barbara. But perhaps her most enduring musical legacy was her extraordinary service to St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, where she organized and directed its choir for 50 years. For five decades, Andriana shared her voice, her musical gifts, her leadership, and her love of the Orthodox faith with generations of parishioners. She also became deeply involved with the San Francisco Metropolis Church Music Federation, directing and participating in church music conferences from Hawaii to Pittsburgh. Although she was honored many times for her contributions, Andriana remained humble about those recognitions. She never sought praise for doing what she loved. To her, sharing music, faith, and fellowship was a privilege and a blessing. She was a devoted wife and soulmate to Ernest. An incredible mother to Christopher and Alexandra. A beautiful grandmother who treasured every moment with her grandchildren and who cared deeply about instilling faith and strong values in their lives. She was a loving sister, cousin, aunt, godmother, mother-in-law and friend. Andriana was light! She had a rare gift of making people feel loved. She was genuine, warm and had a smile and a heart of Gold. She leaves behind her beloved husband of 57 years, Ernest Kolendrianos, M.D., and their two children, Alexandra Kolendrianos

Ramirez (Michael) and Christopher Andrew Kolendrianos. She also leaves behind three precious grandchildren, Sorel Sofia Kolendrianos, Xander Thomas Kolendrianos, and Melina Jade Ramirez, who brought immeasurable joy and love to her life. A Trisagion Prayer Service will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 6PM. Funeral Service will take place on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 10AM. Both Services will be held at Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church at 1205 San Antonio Creek Road. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church in her memory. MAY HER MEMORY BE ETERNAL.

Alexandra Chappell Cole 05/19/1939-07/22/2026

abandoned breweries with Peter, and going to annual freestyle Frisbee events with Thomas. She welcomed their wives, Nancy, Jarka, and Linda into her life, and had a special relationship with each of her grandchildren Zane, Allie, Tobias, and Charlie, and was proud of all their endeavors. Although born in Cambridge, she spent her adult life in California, casting off her stoic New England upbringing by flinging off the Christianity of her childhood to embrace Buddhism and Unitarianism, just as she flung off her clothes to enjoy the Mountain Drive hot tubs of the 1970s. Predeceased by her eldest son Luke, she is survived by Nancy, Luke’s widow, of San Francisco, Peter, Jarka, Charlie, Zane and Anh Thu of Brooklyn, and Thomas, Linda, Allie and Tobias of Santa Barbara. She was predeceased by her beloved partner Frank D. Dobyns. Alex wanted people to know that she wrote this obituary herself.

Carole Ann Anderson.... (nee Schmitt) 06/05/1938-06/26/2026

and field station, work she took pride in amid the beauty of the Santa Ynez Valley. A devout Christian, Carole's faith steadied her through life's assorted challenges and loss of loved ones. In her later years she struggled with health problems that limited her mobility , but persevered through it all with quiet dignity. She is survived by her brother, Michael Schmitt and her former sister-in-law. She was preceded in death by her husband, Benjamin Hewitt, her older brother Fredrick M Schmitt, her mother, Kathryn Elaine Schmitt and Fredrick Joseph Schmitt. Until her last day she was always glad to be with family and friends, laughing and eating chocolate cake. The Valle Verde Resident Association will make a donation in memory of Carole's to The Samaritan's Purse - Carole's favorite Christian Charity

June F. Fincher 1928-2026

Alexandra C. Cole died on July 22, 2026 at the age of 87. She

was passionate about her family, friends, Africa, and work. After a lifetime of study concerning the connection of all humanity, her chief joy was giving individually to others so they could realize their dreams. Her well-being was wrapped up in the well-being of everyone else. She was curious and questing from birth, wanting to know the “Why” of everything. Consequently mystery novels were her favorite read. Independent and self-sufficient, she nonetheless enjoyed conversation and wit amongst friends, where her contagious laughter at a story or bon mot made others smile. She was born in Massachusetts on May 19, 1939. From her father, a scholar and Episcopal minister, came her love of learning, the concept that service was a calling, and a sense of the spiritual in all. Studying came easily to her and she appreciated the opportunity to have graduated from Smith College, Columbia University Library School, and the University of Vermont Historic Preservation program. Her work as a reference librarian and as an architectural historian provided her with great joy. Her three boys Luke, Peter, and Thomas were the light of her life, and she enjoyed every sort of childhood adventure with them, from collecting matchbooks in New London bars with Luke, finding beer paraphernalia in

88, of Solvang, California, peacefully passed away at Serenity House June 26, 2026. Carole's parents Fredrick and Kathryn Schmitt were from Iowa. She was Born June 5, 1938, in Mason City, Iowa, Carole moved to California with her parents as a young girl, growing up in Mar Vista and Hermosa Beach. She attended Venice High School before graduating from Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach with the Class of 1957. In 1967, Carole married Benjamin Hewitt, whom she sadly lost to cancer shortly after their marriage. She carried on with quiet strength and grace. Courageous in ways that belied her shy nature, Carole earned her Class A Commercial Driver's License and drove tractor-trailers and semi trucks during a period when she lived in Everett, Washington, and Anderson California. Carole later moved to Solvang to care for her beloved mother, Kathryn, who was in her declining years - a devotion that shaped the next chapter of her life. It was there that she began an eleven -year career with the U.S. Forest Service at the Los Padres Ranger District, working in their office

Born in June 1928 in Buffalo, New York, passed away September 8, 2026 in Santa Barbara, California. She was a cherished sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, and her presence will be deeply missed. Growing up, June lived throughout the country and then moved to Whittier, California in 1949. She met her husband Colin in Montebello in 1954. After marrying they lived in Fullerton, Woodland Hills, and San Luis Obispo. Colin and June enjoyed traveling and camping throughout the western United States. After Colin's death in 2015, June moved to Santa Barbara. June was an avid quilter and participated in several local sewing and quilting groups in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. She loved making quilts for family and made many charity quilts that were donated to those less fortunate. She also loved spending time with family especially at the holidays. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Colin, her sisters and brother Jeanette, Joan, and Charles. She is survived by her sons Bill (Laurie) and Mark (Sally) and her grandson Zachary.

INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

Y R O T S R E V O C

HOW MANY $9 BURRITOS CAN YOU BAG? SANTA BARBARA’S SIXTH ANNUAL BURRITO WEEK IS HERE BY INDY STAFF

n this day and age of enlightened eating, where we track our ingredients’ origins and nutritional intake with virtuous glee, encouraging everyone to go out and eat as many burritos as they can in one week would be ridiculously irresponsible, right? But what if, for one week only, there were more than two dozen establishments selling more than 50 different burritos for just $9? And what if those burritos ranged from traditionally gut-busting to conscientiously vegan, full of ingredients both familiar and foreign, and served from the early morning ‘til the later night? With all that, how could we not encourage the bagging of beaucoup burritos? It’s not only responsible, it’s downright righteous, a mutually beneficial offering that feeds the masses affordably while bringing new business to the restaurants that sustain us all year long. Welcome once again to the Santa Barbara Independent’s Burrito Week, our sixth annual promotional package that this year enlisted 27 restaurants to serve their wrap stars for just $9 from Thursday, September 24, through Wednesday, September 30. We’ve sent our team out to sample every burrito for you, from the avenues of Buellton to the shores of Carpinteria. What follows are their words and images, conveying what to expect out there on the tortilla trail. Following each description are the hours and restrictions for each restaurant’s Burrito Week plans, if there are any. For those that are serving burritos for dine-in and to-go during their regular hours, we don’t list any stipulations. Once you start bagging those burritos, show your success by tagging photos at #SBIndyBurritoWeek on Instagram. We’ll publish our favorite experiences in next week’s issue. You might even win a $25 gift card to a participating restaurant! —Matt Kettmann

= VEGETARIAN OPTION AVAILABLE Snap a photo + share on Instagram for a chance to win a gift card to participating Burrito Week restaurants! #SBINDYBURRITOWEEK

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INDEPENDENT.COM/BURRITOWEEK

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

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! K E E W O T I R R BU Aside from its status as a savory and unique variation on the burrito as we thought we knew it, the Blue Owl’s Sweetheart Burrito is a shining example of a creation born of the Independent’s Burrito Week phenom itself. Independent It was in 2021 that Blue Owl owner Nadia Ajlouni, who had just taken over the established eatery after moving here from Ohio, concocted the special burrito, with a mission of bucking tradition and creating a vegan burrito suitable for every taste bud. Stuck for a name, Independent advertising manager Sarah Sinclair came up with “sweetheart burrito,” in reference to a prime ingredient: sweet potato. Just add vegan chili mayo, avocado, fresh cabbage, cilantro, Thai basil, and green onion, wrap it all in a tomato tortilla, and try to suppress the grin of satisfaction. For those suspicious of the V-word (“vegan”), the flavors resonate beautifully, not to mention the nutritional value added. Meaty types can always add their protein of choice to the mix. It was such a hit that the Sweetheart gained rotation on the regular menu, rising to the ranks of the Top Five items of choice. The Sweetheart steps into the Burrito Week spotlight again, at a sweet price of $9 for a week. —Josef Woodard

5 W. Canon Perdido St.; (805) 705-0991; theblueowlsb.com

Ever since Corazón Cocina first opened up in the Santa Barbara Public Market, it’s been a go-to spot for me and my family. The menu—crafted by Chef Ramon Velazquez, the man behind multiple Mexican eateries in the area, including his most recent outpost, Corazón Cocina Sur in Carpinteria’s Linden Square—is full of familiar foods from the streets of Guadalajara, kicked up a bit by the highest quality ingredients available. The star of this year’s burrito show, El Paisa, is Velasquez’s take on a traditional, heartwarming marinated al pastor pork burrito, with the addition of the California surf-snack favorite: crispy French fries inside the burrito. The thinly sliced, spicy bits of pork are stuffed alongside long-simmered Peruano beans, cheese, crema, fresh pico de gallo, and a handful of fries inside the handmade fluffy tortilla. The staff at Corazón do it right, kissing the burrito on a flat-top grill until all the ingredients get to know each other and the tortilla has a nice little crisp. The burrito comes with Corazón’s special salsa mugrosa, aka “dirty sauce,” a deep, smoky salsa that complements their bright green tomatillo salsa (my personal favorite) nicely. Whether you’re in the chaos of the Public Market, or catching an ocean breeze at Linden Square down in Carp, this heavy-hitting burrito will undoubtedly earn a place in your corazón. —Ryan P. Cruz

Available at both locations 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Corazón Cocina: 38 W. Victoria St., Unit 122 (805) 845-0282; corazoncocina.toast.site. Corazón Cocina Sur: 772 Linden Ave., Carpinteria; (805) 401-0120; corazoncocinasur.com

The secret is officially out on Cristino’s Bakery. Despite hiding in a mostly abandoned strip mall surrounded by smog checkers and auto repair shops near the airport, there was a steady stream of customers in there at the neither-lunch-nordinner time of 2 p.m. They were young and old, locals and travelers, white, brown, Black, and Asian, ordering tacos and pan dulce. That’s due to the consistency and creativity of owner Lorena Casas and her staff of folks such as cashier Juanita Miranda and kitchen manager Mario Medina. The trio worked together to develop the brand-new Tropical Carnitas Burrito, centered on a Michoacán-style carnitas, which is the common style around here, but with garlic and freshly picked oranges tossed into the boiling oil with the pork. They make that twice a week. “We make small batches of everything so we can make it fresh,” said Casas, adding with a smirk, “and we don’t have any storage.” Those carnitas are laced with melted cheese, pinto beans, rice, and—the real star of the show—a tangy-sweet-smoky, just-spicy-enough slaw of roasted pineapple, pickled red onions, and manzana chiles. It turns out that Cristino’s uses Burrito Week (and our other food weeks) to test out menu ideas, said Casas, explaining, “I want people to try something different.” Go ahead. Use us up. —Matt Kettmann

To-go only. 170 Aero Camino, Goleta; (805) 455-6900; cristinosbakery.com

CRUSHCAKES & CAFÉ: BEAR HUG BURRITO

ERIN LYNCH

MAT T KET TMANN

CRISTINO’S BAKERY: TROPICAL CARNITAS BURRITO

RYAN P. CRUZ

JOSEF WOODARD

THE BLUE OWL: SWEETHEART BURRITO

CORAZÓN COCINA & CORAZÓN COCINA SUR: EL PAISA BURRITO

Wrap yourself up in Crushcakes & Café’s Bear Hug Burrito this Burrito Week! This hearty breakfast burrito is packed with fried eggs, roasted potatoes, Jack cheese, red onions, arugula, and your choice of avocado or bacon. There’s a great mix of savory flavors and textures in every bite, making this a satisfying way to start the day. The melted Jack cheese gives you that nice, gooey cheese pull, while the roasted potatoes add some substance and a little crispiness. It comes with a side of tortilla chips, which are perfect for adding some crunch between bites. I like to add a generous dose of Cholula to my breakfast burritos, and it definitely brings a nice kick of flavor to this one. If you have room for something sweet afterward, Crushcakes always has you covered with their signature cupcakes! A few times a week, they offer an early-afternoon cupcake happy hour with a buy-three-get-one-free deal on cupcakes. It’s a pretty tempting excuse to grab a few flavors and share—or, honestly, keep them all for yourself. —Erin Lynch

1315 Anacapa St., (805) 963-3752 and 5392 Hollister Ave., Goleta, (805) 845-2780; crushcakes.com

CONTINUED >

INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

BURRITO WEEK! DAVE’S DOGS: THE EARLY RISER

Bold and full of flavor since 2015, Dave’s Dogs is well-known for deliciously innovative takes on hot dogs, hamburgers, loaded fries, and more. In honor of this year’s Burrito Week, they’ve upped the ante even further with the Early Riser breakfast burrito. Soft scrambled eggs mix with crispy tots, melted cheddar, savory chipotle aioli, and a breakfast patty to make a palate-pleasing argument that breakfast is indeed the most important meal of the day. But I know what you’re thinking: “Since when does Dave’s Dogs do breakfast?” Well, my friends, since … (checks watch) … now. “We’ve been wanting to start breakfast for a while,” said Cynthia Reynoso of Dave’s Dogs. “We will be trying out a simple breakfast menu that launches with Burrito Week: three breakfast sandwiches, three burritos, and a loaded breakfast tater tot bowl. It’s a quick grab-and-go breakfast menu for us busy peeps.” Innovation has never tasted so good, so start your day off right this week with the Early Riser (and its morning-time friends). And a new menu means new hours, as Dave’s doors will now open at 8 a.m. each morning in the Turnpike Shopping Center. —Dave Callanan

FRESH HANDMADE TAMALES MADE DAILY • Chicken with spicy green salsa • Pork with mild red salsa

• Rajas with mozzarella cheese & jalapenos

Breakfast only, 8-10:30 a.m. 149 S. Turnpike Rd.; (805) 770-7772; davesdogs805.com

Now taking pre orders for the Holidays! Pan de Muerto available Oct 28 - Nov 2

DOWNTOWN EATS: CALIFORNIA PASTOR BURRITO

Gimbap Burrito Burrit A twist on a Korean classic. Flour tortilla, seaweed, rice, carrots, cucumber, spinach, pickled cucumber radish, burdock root, with your choice of bulgogi or tofu. Side of scallion aioli.

RICHELLE BOYD

Open Weekdays: 6 AM - 8 PM Weekends: 6 AM - 2 PM Our Only Location

DAVE C ALLANAN

More than just a Bakery

I don’t think the picture does this burrito justice—for starters, it’s massive. It’s chopped in half and takes up my entire plate, and it’s also hot and fresh, complemented by some perfectly salted chips and two salsa options. If you haven’t yet found yourself hungry when strutting State Street this week, look no further than Downtown Eats’ California Pastor Burrito, working from inside and along with M. Special Brewing. So, you can catch a game, grab a beer, and get your $9 burrito all in one place. This burrito is packed with delicious and tender pastor that’s soaked for days in a homemade marinade. That telltale taste of pastor comes through on each bite, complemented by cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and crispy fries all wrapped up in a flour tortilla. I personally paired mine with the milder avocado salsa in the afternoon heat, but they have a classic salsa with more of a kick, though it’s not set-your-mouth-on-fire spicy. It’s a staple on the Downtown Eats menu and one of my go-tos. They’ve been at their State Street location for just over a year and still run their food truck, Santa Barbara Food Connection, around town for catering and events. It’s a hearty must-have in your classic burrito going. —Richelle Boyd

Available noon-7 p.m. 634 State St. (inside M. Special); (805) 570-5945; mspecialbrewco.com/ downtown-eats

WEEK!

IT’S HER

O T I R R U B

SEPTEMBER

24-30

7 DAYS oF

OS $9 BURRIT taurants

at participating res ty in Santa Barbara Coun

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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

MEAGAN CLARK TIERNAN

7 Days Of $8 Burritos From September 24–30!

EL ZARAPE: EL RAJITAS PASILLA Raul Gil knows a thing or two about Burrito Week. After all, he’s been participating since the beginning and understands that locals love breakfast burritos. So much so that this year, the owner of El Zarape admits he’s had to limit things: two burritos a day, only available until 11 a.m. That shouldn’t stop you from coming. In fact, it should encourage you to make a daily trip to snag this year’s special: El Rajitas Pasilla. A breakfast burrito can often feel a bit bland, starchy, and dry. This is anything but. A large flour tortilla is filled with grilled pasilla peppers, which add a wonderfully crunchy texture while still remaining soft enough to easily sink your teeth into. The powerful green burrito is vegetarian but hearty for workday mornings or post-workout snacks, stuffed with eggs, well-seasoned potatoes, garlic, and onion. I’m partial to green salsa always, but guests have a choice between green tomatillo and red ajillo salsa. Every bite is cooled down by hunks of avocado that spill out onto your plate from the grilled burrito. This breakfast burrito is anything but simple. Gil likens his food to being “humble good.” I’d have to agree. —Meaghan Clark Tiernan

Breakfast only, 7-11 a.m.; limit two per person. 1435 San Andres St.; (805) 899-2711

INDEPENDENT.COM

With a name like Fresco, it has to be fresh. The first Mexican-style meal offered by the popular café fits the bill. The key ingredient is a custom-spiced chorizo that fills most of the tortilla-wrapped concoction. It is laced with chunks of roasted red potato, scrambled eggs, queso fresco (of course), and mild Anaheim chiles. It was not on the original menu conceived by Jill Petrarca, who founded Fresco at the Five Points shopping center with Mark Brouillard in 1995. They came from Rhode Island, where Petrarca attended culinary school focused on traditional American fare. “There were only two Mexican restaurants in the entire state,” she recalled. Fresco thrived on staples such as salads, sandwiches, burgers, and quiches for almost three decades at the original site before a harsh rent increase precipitated its departure. It found a home inside the Public Market in July 2025. Relying on a predominantly Mexican-American kitchen staff, Petrarca discovered that longtime cook Carmelo Duarte made chorizo with his own flavorings and could deliver a fresh batch weekly. Thus, the chorizo wrap was born, complemented nicely by house-made salsa. It’s only available in the morning hours, but that’s the best time to consume all that protein, as fortification for the day ahead. —John Zant

JOHN Z ANT

FRESCO AT THE MARKET: CHORIZO WRAP

Celebrate

BURRITO WEEK

CHRISTINA MCDERMOT T

Breakfast only, 8 a.m.-noon. 38 W. Victoria St., Unit 102; (805)770-7994; fresco-sb.com

Available In-Stores only 3315 STATE ST

1187 COAST VILLAGE RD

1324 STATE ST

Crispy bacon, potatoes, eggs, and melted Swiss cheese, wrapped in a ﬂour tortilla.

From left: Hibachi Chicken Burrito, Sushi Burrito, and Hibachi Tofu Burrito

HIBACHI STEAK HOUSE & SUSHI BAR: SUSHI BURRITO, HIBACHI CHICKEN BURRITO, & HIBACHI TOFU BURRITO Burritos and sushi rolls are cousins if you squint—both an edible present, wrapped up together. Why not combine them? Hibachi Steak House and Sushi Bar’s sushi “Santa Barbara” burrito blends flavor and textures with precision. There’s the crunch of the shrimp tempura with the creaminess of the avocado, the slight sweetness of the soy paper wrap with the tang of the spicy mayo dipping sauce (or eel sauce. Actually—try both). All-in-all? Delicious. If you don’t fancy fish, give Hibachi’s chicken burrito or tofu burrito a try. The fried-rice base blends with the still slightly crisp grilled vegetables and the tofu or chicken. The restaurant offers a range of tasty, tangy (and in the case of the habanero sauce, spicy) options to add to the burrito’s more mild contents. Hibachi’s manager Maria Topete said the inspiration behind the restaurant’s sushi and hibachi burritos came from the desire to combine cuisines from Mexican and Japanese cuisine, both of which have a strong SoCal presence and history. “For us, it’s really about bringing two cultures together, introducing people to new flavors, and creating something fun and convenient that represents Southern California and the diverse community we serve,” Topete said. The portability of a burrito is another draw. “We wanted to create something guests could easily grab and take to class, the beach, or enjoy on the go,” Topete said. — Christina McDermott

To-go only. Mon.-Thu., 3-9 p.m. 502 State St.; (805) 966-6607; somethingsfishysb.com

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BURRITO WEEK!

The newly opened Jalapeño S.B. is hard-launching Burrito Week with not one, but three options—all customizable with your choice of protein: carne asada, al pastor, chicken, beef birria, and shrimp. Vegetarian options include tofu and black beans. Owners Victor and Martha Gonzalez have poured their hearts into renovating the space at 900 North Milpas and building a team of “the most beautiful people,” said Victor. “For me, it’s the most important thing: people. Not everything is about money.” That spirit is evident from the moment you walk in. Friendly staff, artwork by artist Carlos Cuellar, and fresh chips and salsas made by Martha create a welcoming, homey atmosphere, the optimal setting for a burrito tasting triptych. The Chingón is a satisfying classic, loaded with carne asada and al pastor, rice, beans, cheese, sour cream pico de gallo, grilled onions, and guacamole. French fries rolled into chicken, rice, beans, cheese, grilled onions, and lettuce define the Santa Barbara Burrito experience, served with a fiery habanero dipping sauce. The Cañón Perdido Chile Relleno Burrito is a cheese lover’s delight, drenched in their signature relleno cream sauce and filled with plump chiles, stuffed with melted Monterey Jack cheese, and rolled into rice and beans. Generosity of proportions, options, and the restaurant team set this new restaurant apart, a recipe for full bellies and hearts. —Ingrid Bostrom

BURRITO WEEK

Cañón Perdido

900 N. Milpas St.; (805) 886-2080

INGRID BOSTROM PHOTOS

JALAPEÑO S.B.: CHINGÓN, CAÑÓ CAÑÓNN PERDIDO CHILE RELLENO & SANTA BARBARA BURRITOS

Chingón

Santa Barbara

BOB WESLEY

September 24–30 STOP BY THE SAVOY CAFE & DELI FOR A DELICIOUS $9 BURRITO ALL WEEK! COME GET YOURS! (805) 962-6611 Open Mon–Sat 7:30AM–3:30PM Closed Sunday 24 West Figueroa St Santa Barbara, CA 93101

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LA TEQUILA: CHILE VERDE BURRITO Burrito culture usually relies on predictable math: meat, beans, rice, and cheese rolled into a reliable, heavy cylinder. It’s a comfort food formula that asks very little of you except an appetite and plenty of napkins. You don’t think about a burrito. You deal with one. But La Tequila in Buellton is upending expectations for Burrito Week with a creation that demands your full attention — one where every layer feels deliberate. The slow-cooked chile verde pork is tender and seasoned as if flavor was the absolute priority and a spice rack was handy. The savory rice avoids the usual bland trap. Even the black beans have personality. Nothing about this feels like it has been languishing under a heat lamp waiting for a hungry passerby; it’s freshly assembled by a kitchen that cares. And it’s built to survive itself. That’s rarer than it sounds — most burritos of this size give up somewhere around the third bite, undergoing a structural implosion while you’re still holding them. This one doesn’t. The rice absorbs what the protein and beans radiate, the tortilla holds strong without going soft at the seams, and the last bite arrives in the same condition as the first. Bring both hands. It’s earned them. —Bob Wesley

35 W. Hwy. 246, Buellton; (805) 697-7776; latequilabuellton.com

Best known for the reputed curative power of their homemade chicken soup, the family-owned and operated Little Alex’s Mexican Grill (now in Five Points uptown) also offers a wide variety of burritos with meat selections galore—from Chile Colorado to chicken chipotle, beer-battered fish, and more. This week, they’re showcasing two favorites. The Breakfast Burrito had a nice kick to it, with the chorizo’s greasy goodness playing off the fluffy and creamy softness of the scrambled eggs, cheese, and potatoes. For a more traditional burrito, beans and rice are an option, instead of the potatoes. In either case, their breakfast menu—which includes omelettes, huevos rancheros, and chilaquiles—is available all day. Chorizo Burrito The California Burrito, a much more gringo option, puts French fries, cheese, sour cream, and pico de gallo with your choice of carne asada, carnitas, chicken rajas, and veggie rajas. It’s a hearty, tasty and very, very filling riff on the Cali Burrito trend. I tried the carne asada, and the grilled steak and yumminess of the sour cream were a great match with the roasted chile salsa. It also came with a basket of homemade tortilla chips, whose crunchy saltiness contrasted nicely with the soft burrito textures. The portions are generous, and I easily got an extra meal from both burritos, so I can happily report that they were almost as good the next day after a quick zap in the microwave. —Leslie Dinaberg

LESLIE DINABERG

LITTLE ALEX’S: CALIFORNIA & CHORIZO BREAKFAST BURRITO

RYAN P. CRUZ

3987 State St.; (805) 969-2297; littlealexs.com

LITTLE HEART CAFECITO: CARPINTERO BURRITO

A lifetime of eating breakfast burritos has made me somewhat of a chorizo connoisseur. I’ve eaten chorizo-egg burritos from just about anywhere that sells them, from taco stands to coffee shops to streetside vendors selling out of their cars (those burritos were homemade, and especially tasty). A chorizo burrito is one of those simple dishes, where the smallest details can make one stand out above the others. Well-cooked egg, quality chorizo—rendered enough to avoid an oily mess—maybe some good cheese, and some crispy potatoes to round it all off. That’s all you need if it’s done right. At Little Heart Cafecito, the little breakfast-slinging brother restaurant of Chef Ramon Velazquez’s Corazón Cocina, the Carpintero Burrito is just that: a quality breakfast food with all the protein, starch, flavor, and love you need to get through your day. It starts with farm-fresh eggs, scrambled to perfection and wrapped in a soft flour tortilla with chunks of spicy chorizo, potatoes, Jack cheese, pico de gallo, and a selection of house salsas to drizzle over each bite. The combination is a fresh take on a Mexican classic, brought to a level worthy of Burrito Week and good enough to stand on its own against any chorizo burrito in town. —Ryan P. Cruz

ONE WEEK. $ 9 ONE BURRITO. . ENJOY MESA CAFE’S FEATURED BURRITO FOR ONLY $9 DURING BURRITO WEEK WEEK, SEPTEMBER 24–30

COME HUNGRY. LEAVE HAPPY.

LOS AGAVES: PASTOR, GARDEN, & CHICKEN BURRITOS

REBECC A HORRIGAN

Available 9 a.m.-noon. 38 W. Victoria St., Unit 121; (805) 679-5649; littleheartcafecito.com

What sets Los Agaves apart from the multitude of Mexican spots in town? It’s the place that pleases everyone. With options as unique as a steaming bowl of molcajetes or as simple as a cheese quesadilla, picky and frisky palates can both satisfy their Mexican food desires. Beverages range from spicy margaritas to crisp Pacificos, authentic aguas frescas to classic Coca-Colas. Sit down, takeout, salsas mild and hot, a tasty happy hour at their stunning new bar, and three locations to choose from, truly provide something for all. Their Burrito Week specials exhibit this penchant to please. All three options come in a large tortilla loaded with pinto beans and Monterey Jack cheese. rice, lettuce, sour cream, guacamole, and pico de gallo. Craving a can’t-miss favorite? Order the grilled chicken. Looking to amp up the flavor? Seek out the Al Pastor. Keeping it vegetarian? The Garden is certain to delight with roasted zucchini, red bell peppers, and carrots. With the abundant salsa bar at your fingertips, personal customization is endless, as are the tortilla chips, so get to Los Agaves for a Burrito Week choice no one can argue with. —Rebecca Horrigan

Dine-in only. 600 N. Milpas St., (805) 564-2626; 2911 De la Vina St., (805) 682-2600; 7024 Marketplace Dr., Goleta, (805) 968-4000; los-agaves.com

CONTINUED >

(805) 966-5303 Open Mon- Sun 7:30am-2:30pm 1972 Cliff Dr. Santa Barbara, CA

Burritos All Week!

Celebrate Burrito Week with Maria’s Tacos in Isla Vista.

Delicious, fresh, and made with love! follow us on Instagram @mariastacos-islavista

6545 Pardall Rd, Isla Vista 805.637.3492 INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

MAÍZ PICANTE: CARNITAS, PASTOR, & VEGGIE BURRITOS

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October 22 Santa Barbara Historical Museum

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Sometimes, the biggest flavors hide in most Carnitas Burrito non-descript packages. When it comes to burrito joints, I find this to be true more often than not. Maíz Picante Taqueria is a perfect example of how excellent food needs no pretense. Chef Francisco “Paco” Cavazos formerly manned the kitchens at Los Agaves and Santo Mezcal before opening this spot in 2023, and it’s particularly close to his heart. “We are inspired by authentic Tijuana cooking,” Chef Paco said. “We take pride in creating dishes with bold flavors that speak to our respect for tradition.” You can taste the love in the three hearty Burrito Week offerings. Each packs a punch with a distinctive savory profile and comes nestled in the key co-stars of lusciously melty beans and cheese. The Carnitas is pure comfort, packed generously with slightly smoky, succulent braised and shredded pork. The Veggie bursts with bright roasted bell peppers, onions and potatoes, and the Pastor features thinly sliced-toorder pork, marinated in homemade adobo and spit roasted on the trompo for maximum impact. Just when you think they don’t need any bells and whistles, the selection of salsas arrives like a rainbow illuminating your taste buds with an orange chipotle version, a light green creamy jalapeño sauce, a refreshing salsa verde, bright pink pickled radishes, and more. The zingy flavors hit the spot and serve as a reminder that this humble haunt on De la Vina is more than meets the eye, and a must for soulful cooking. —Rebecca Horrigan

2714 De la Vina St.; (805) 586-2272; maizpicante.com

MARIA’S TACOS: ISLA VISTA SPECIAL BURRITO A small, family-run taco counter in the heart of Isla Vista is trying something different this week. Though known for their tacos, Maria’s Tacos will put their burritos in the spotlight for Burrito Week. Wrapped in a warm, handmade tortilla, the Isla Vista Special Burrito comes packed with rice, beans, cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, and lettuce. The tortilla is soft but sturdy, making every bite easy to enjoy. Whether you’re craving pastor, chicken, or carnitas, or prefer a vegetarian option with veggie or potato, there’s something for everyone. The veggie highlights the freshness of the ingredients, with each component blending together alongside the creaminess of the cheese into a satisfying balance. To finish it off, Maria’s salsas let you add a little extra kick, with the red salsa bringing the heat and the green offering a milder flavor. Owner Maria Mayo started serving I.V.’s masses in June 2023, making it a regular stop for UCSB students and nearby families. For Mayo, Burrito Week is “an opportunity to try something different,” whether that means bringing in new customers or giving returning customers a reason to venture beyond their usual order. The I.V. Special is a perfect excuse. —Taylor Cusimano

TAYLOR CUSIMANO

2026

REBECC A HORRIGAN

A CELEBRATION OF THE

BURRITO WEEK!

Lunch only, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 6545 Pardall Rd., Isla Vista; (805) 637-3492; mariastacosiv.com

MESA CAFÉ CAFÉ &BAR: BREAKFAST BURRITO COURTESY

Since 1984, Mesa Café & Bar has been a locals’ go-to for booths, boards, burgers, beers, Bloody Marys, and breakfast burritos. Their wet one—and it’s not drowned, just sauced across its middle third, with a scatter of cheese melt—is at the ridiculously affordable Burrito Week price. And, as befits their generous spirit, it still comes with your choice of hash browns or home fries. You will not leave hungry. Since the Mesa Café is all about simple pleasures, this burrito is uncomplicated; even its two major components, black beans and a fluffy egg scramble, are rather discretely separated into their own halves of the rolled-up flour tortilla. But those beans have a tasty pot liquor and are laced with slices of jalapeño and onion. The egg remains moist without going soggy. Some Jack cheese and salsa provide more flavor. You’ll feel at home. Patrons will ask about servers’ parents. Customers tell the host, “We’ll just sit at the bar in our usual seats.” There will be lots of smiling. You will leave pleased in more ways than a delicious burrito can provide, knowing why the spot has survived since the year the first Mac computer was sold. —George Yatchisin

SCAN QR

for Tickets

Available Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. 1972 Cliff Dr.; (805) 966-5303; mesacafesb.com

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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

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AT CAPACITY JEAN YAMAMURA

PADARO BEACH GRILL: GRINGO BURRITO

There’s nothing more soothing than the sound of the ocean waves breaking. And in Carpinteria, there’s nowhere better to be at lunchtime than the Padaro Beach Grill, which boasts the sounds of the surf just beyond the picnic tables, sunlit umbrellas, green grass, sandy sandpit, and the restaurant’s expansive menu. That now includes The Gringo, a burrito specially made for the Indy’s annual tribute to hand-held food in a tortilla. To give it a pre–Burrito Week taste test, I brought along my favorite gringo—my husband, Robert—who pronounced it “delicious.” The Gringo was stoutly stuffed with juicy ground beef sauteed with sweet onions, replete with chopped cabbage, pico de gallo, two types of cheese, and enough spicy jalapeño slices to give the whole thing a nice zing. A fresh house-made salsa roja came with and added a mild and flavorful topping. This one is a genuine special, as Padaro Beach Grill doesn’t even make burritos, usually. Quesadillas and tacos, yes, but burritos, no. And customers still ask for last year’s Nacho Burrito, said Padaro’s Gaby Lopez. “And we will still make it for them!” —Jean Yamamura

SANTA BARBARA MAYORAL CANDIDATE FORUM

Alhecama Theatre Wednesday, September 30, 5:30pm

MODERATED BY

RYAN P. CRUZ

THE PATIO CAFÉ: CHICKEN FAJITA & HOT DOG BURRITOS

Chicken Fajita

Hot Dog

IAN CHUNG

3765 Santa Claus Ln., Carpinteria; (805) 566-9800; padarobeachgrill.com

Walking into The Patio Café, I was immediately greeted by the welcoming smile of owner Rosalinda “Rosie” Monrroy. Inspired by the creativity and tenacity of her mother, Rosie’s love of food and community drove her to achieve her dream of opening a restaurant. For Burrito Week, she’s serving a beautiful Chicken Fajita Burrito and its unconventional counterpart, the Hot Dog Burrito. The Chicken Fajita, which consisted of salsa-marinated chicken, onion, beans, rice, and sour cream, was deliciously savory, evoking that same feeling of home that emanates from The Patio’s walls. Truly spectacular. Although initially intimidated by Hot Dog Burrito, its filling, made up of hot dogs, onion, tomato, mayo, ketchup, and jalapeño, brought me back to summers spent with family cheering on our favorite team at the baseball stadium. Wrap that feeling up in a toasted tortilla, and you’ve got an unusual but delicious combination. I asked Rosie if she had any advice for others chasing their own dreams. “Never give up and be strong,” she said. “Stay patient and determined despite any bumps in the road. There will always be a light at the end of the tunnel.” —Ian Chung

Eric Friedman

Kristen Sneddon

Wendy Sims-Moten

Dine-in only, 7 a.m.-1: 30 p.m. 3007 De la Vina St.; (805) 687-3663; thepatiocafesb.com LESLIE DINABERG

RENAUD’S PATISSERIE & BISTRO: BREAKFAST BURRITO

HEAR FROM CANDIDATES:

While the words “burrito” and “elegant” aren’t typically found in pairs, the perfect proportions of the mouthwateringly delicious Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro’s Breakfast Burrito are a match made in heaven. I’m not usually much of an early morning eater, but their—dare I say it—elegant concoction of perfectly crisped bacon, creamy buttery potatoes, fluffy eggs, and melted Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a flour tortilla, is more than enough to make me roll out of bed with a smile. Served with an equally well-balanced house-made roasted tomato salsa—with just the right amount of spice and sweetness to remind you that tomatoes are indeed botanically classified as a fruit—this nicely constructed burrito is not too big or messy to pick up in your hands. Though it’s certainly more ladylike (or gentlemanly) to eat with a knife and fork, it’s so good that you may not have the patience. You won’t be hungry after this baby, but get yourself one of Renaud’s perfectly buttery croissants, cinnamon hazelnut rolls, or zesty lemon tarts for a treat later on. There’s nothing like starting the day off with something to look forward to. —Leslie Dinaberg

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Available until 2:30 p.m. 3315 State St., (805) 569-2400; 1324 State St., Ste. N, (805) 892-2800; 1187 Coast Village Rd., Ste. 7, Montecito; (805) 324-4200; renaudsbistro.com.

CONTINUED > INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

SANTA BARBARA CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 4 CANDIDATE FORUM

Unitarian Society, Parish Hall Monday, September 28, 5:30pm

MODERATED BY

RYAN P. CRUZ

HEAR FROM CANDIDATES:

RINKSIDE CAFÉ: TERIYAKI TURN-UP

TERRY ORTEGA

BURRITO WEEK! I had a few burrito beliefs before I tasted my “burrito.” I believed that because burritos originated from Mexico, they had to contain one or more of the basic ingredients: beans, rice, cheese, and beef or chicken. Once I got over myself, I realized that you can roll any ingredients into a tortilla and call it a burrito because, in the end, it will still look like a rolled pack resembling a little bedroll hanging from a burro. When I saw the ingredients of the Teriyaki Turn-Up, I turned my head in the way a dog says, “Huh?” I did a little research on huli huli chicken thighs and learned that “huli” means turn in Hawaiian, so you “turn turn” the chicken between two grates while flipping it over a flame. Other ingredients are shredded cabbage, scallions, teriyaki sauce (with a mild bite), rice, sriracha mayo, and macaroni salad, which ended as my favorite ingredient, all wrapped in a jumbo flour tortilla heated on a plancha (a flat metal cooking plate used to sear at a high temperature). One bite and I blacked out—not literally, but I closed my eyes as I took in all the flavors of the ingredients separately and then tasted the fusion in one flavor. I had to stop eating because Chef Sean Bentley, unassuming and humble, also made me the tofu version. Yes, all the same ingredients, but the same overall taste? No! The teriyaki tofu, having a more subtle flavor and texture, gave this burrito a mellower vibe. I leave you this warning: You will only be able to experience this burrito during Burrito Week. Send your thank-yous to fusion wizard Chef Sean (and me at the Indy). —Terry Ortega

Genevieve Taft-Vasquez

Jason Dominguez

Monte Wilson

Santa Barbara certainly has no shortage of stellar breakfast burritos, but with so many options, some great ones inevitably get lost in the shuffle. One of them is the Savoy Breakfast Burrito from Savoy Café & Deli. Not because of an over-the-top ingredient list or some secret combination of toppings, but because of its simplicity: two organic eggs, potatoes, Jack cheese, and avocado. That’s it. No bacon, sausage, or laundry list of add-ons competing for attention. Just the classic breakfast-burrito essentials tucked into a warm tortilla, served with a side of pico de gallo for a fresh, tangy kick. Sometimes, you really don’t need to overcomplicate a good thing. —Tiana Molony TK

Devon Wardlow

SAVOY CAFÉ CAFÉ & DELI: SAVOY BREAKFAST BURRITO

TIANA MOLONY

6985 Santa Felicia Dr., Goleta; (805) 869-4007; iceinparadise.org/rinkside-cafe

24 W. Figueroa St.; (805) 962-6611; thesavoycafe.com

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DAVE C ALLANAN

SHALHOOB’S: SANTA BARBARA STYLE BURRITO

FIND THE FULL DETAILS ON ALL OF OUR UPCOMING CANDIDATE FORUMS AT

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When the team at Shalhoob’s was approached for Burrito Week 2026, their first inclination was to sit this one out. “We initially were going to pass,” admitted Leeandra Shalhoob. “But then we thought, why not do something fun and get creative?!” Chefs Rolando Ventura and Cosmo Goss were tasked with the challenge, and I can happily confirm the assignment was clearly understood. Their creation, the Santa Barbara Style Burrito, is a leveled-up rendition of a California Burrito that is undeniably 805. Standard ingredients of fresh pico de gallo, melted cheeses, and crisp French fries blend expertly with regionally inspired flavors of seasoned, smoked tri-tip; rich avocado; and cowboy beans to produce a culinary experience that is nothing short of life-changing. There’s no lip-service in that statement—I am pretty sure I’m a better person now having had this burrito. Served with a side of man-that-hits-the-spot avocado salsa, there’s joy in every bite as the warm flour tortilla deftly manages to contain generous helpings of every ingredient. Discover the best version of yourself this Burrito Week by getting to know this deliciously unique creation early and often. —Dave Callanan

Dine-in only. 220 Gray Ave., (805) 256-7353; 5112 Hollister Ave., (805) 880-0733; shalhoob.com

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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

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County of Santa Barbara PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

SEOULMATE KITCHEN: GIMBAP BURRITO

Coastal Resources Mitigation Fund GEORGE YATCHISIN

Chef Juan Pedro Muñoz Vaca, who co-owns Seoulmate Kitchen with his wife, Francescsa, faced a conundrum opting to partake in their first Burrito Week. “I didn’t want to mess with Corazón,” he says, pointing down the Public Market hallway to his esteemed Mexican food neighbor. His creative and scrumptious solution is a gimbap burrito, bringing all the Korean kicky goodness you’d expect from Seoulmate, which has surely conquered the cursed back corner of the market based on its ever-present line. Gimbap is the Korean sushi equivalent, so this offering is a fat nori-wrapped center with a pan-crisped tortilla wrapped around that. Fusion at its multi-flavor best. The center can star either bulgogi beef—redolent of barbecue—or tofu for vegetarians. Every roll features rice with a vinegar tang, crunchy carrots, cucumber daikon, spinach, and a scallion aioli that packs in luxe flavor. As good as all that is, don’t skimp on dousing your burrito with Seoulsauce, a gochujang-based condiment made in-house that Vaca won’t divulge the full recipe for. While not a scorcher, the sauce’s heat will leave you reaching for a Kleenex by burrito’s end. —George Yatchisin

38 W. Victoria St., Unit 115; (805) 869-2566; seoulmatekitchen.com

NOTICE FOR 2026 & 2027 GRANT PROPOSALS AND ONLINE WORKSHOPS The County of Santa Barbara is now accepting proposals for its Coastal Resources Mitigation Fund (CRMF) grant program, which provides funding for projects that protect and enhance environmentally sensitive coastal resources, coastal aesthetics, coastal tourism, and coastal recreation. To be considered for funding, proposed activities must have a relationship to coastal resources, whether located inside or outside the County’s coastal zone. Eligible applicants include public agencies, municipalities, special districts, and nonprofit organizations. Proposals are due by 5:00 pm on Monday, November 23, 2026. You may obtain an application for your proposal online at: https://www.countyofsb.org/pl-coastal-resourcesmitigation-fund-crmf Two online workshops will be held:

TAQUERIA LA UNICA: EL REY & GARDEN BURRITOS REBECC A HORRIGAN

Taqueria La Unica brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico City and Jalisco to the humble zone of upper State Street. Although it’s owned by the same company that manages Los Agaves, Flor de Maiz, and Santo Mezcal, Taqueria La Unica truly lives up to its name “The Unique Taqueria.” This spot sets itself apart with their emphasis on street food specialties, a variety of melt-inyour-mouth meats, and a fiery passion for bold creations. For Burrito Week, don’t miss their El Rey, a tasty concoction of spicy al pastor pork, shaved off a large trompo in the kitchen, El Rey swaddled in smooth and creamy Chihuahua cheese, and mixed with refried pinto beans, rice, fresh pineapple, onion, and cilantro all wrapped tightly in a large tortilla. Those looking for a veggie option that nixes the meat but doesn’t skip on flavor, dive into their surprisingly spiceinfused Garden Burrito, which includes mushrooms, Chihuahua cheese, refried pinto beans, and rice. Their impressive salsa bar includes favorites such as a creamy avocado salsa, a robust chipotle, and a refreshing tomatillo. Pair it with their plentiful chips and a cucumber lemon agua fresca and let each bite and sip transport you off State and into a lively sidewalk cafe in Guadalajara. —Rebecca Horrigan

Tuesday, September 29, 2026 10:00 AM Join: Microsoft Teams meeting Meeting ID: 294 505 650 650 254 Passcode: wj2oh7ow Dial in by phone: +1 805-724-0311,,790268613# Phone conference ID: 790 268 613# Thursday, October 1, 2026 3:00 PM Join: Microsoft Teams meeting Meeting ID: 284 517 433 435 120 Passcode: xs7To7nS Dial in by phone: +1 805-724-0311,,370022983# Phone conference ID: 370 022 983# For further information, please contact Jacquelynn Ybarra at jybarra@countyofsb.org Energy, Minerals & Compliance Division 123 E. Anapamu Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101

YELLOW BELLY TAP & RESTAURANT: BELLY UP BURRITO

COURTESY

Dine-in only. 3771 State St.; (805) 689-5619; taquerialaunica.com

What’s better than a cheeseburger? … Wait. Sorry. Wrong week. Ahem…. What’s better than a cheeseburger-inspired burrito? That’s the question Yellow Belly is asking with their Burrito Week offering. Cheeseburgers have taken on many forms — pizza, chips, pasta—but the burrito is one of the least offensive. It’s like—I’m trying to think of a metaphor—borrowing your cousin’s favorite outfit but adding your own accessories. Chef Jose Almanza and the Yellow Belly team put their heads together to execute it perfectly. Originally, they wanted the burrito to have mac and cheese inside, but no, that was too heavy. But they did want the cheesy, beefy, caramelized onion taste reminiscent of their Yellow Belly burger. After a few incarnations, and much sampling, they found it: the Belly Up Burrito. It has all the same components as the burger: ground beef with diced caramelized onion, cheddar, lettuce, tomato. But then add on pinto beans and rice, wrap it up in a tortilla and grill it, and serve it with a side of chipotle crema (the burger’s star sauce) and chips. Voilà, burrito-fied. It is scrumptious. I highly recommend dipping the burrito in the crema. I could drink that stuff. You don’t have to, though—they have a great draft list. —Callie Fausey

2611 De la Vina St.; (805) 770-5694; yellowbellytap.com

earn to to LLearn

Speak Speak Spanish Spanish with A lonso B enavides , ph . d .

with Alonso Benavides, ph.d.

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Two for$980 12 Hours/Week one-hour sessions 12 weeks: $730 SPANISH LANGUAGE Private one-on-one INSITUTE SIGLO 21 $120 hour Santa per Barbara Package of 12 sessions: $1,350

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Special semester package:

INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

Animal Liberation Animal Liberation Orchestra Orchestra

Munkafust Whatever Forever Salty Strings DJ Darla Bea A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION – ALL ARE WELCOME!

$35 GAUCHOFEST+: $55 WITH BEER & WINE GAUCHOFEST:

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October 17, 2026 UCSB Commencement Green, 1 PM - 6 PM alumni.ucsb.edu/gauchofest

WITH THANKS TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSORS: 34

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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

INDEPENDENT.COM

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Visual Art Feature

SECOND DOSE OF

BRAVE NEW WORK

NEW WORK “B

London based conceptual artist and musician Beatie Wolfe (right) performs a film score written with Brian Eno, live to picture with the Santa Barbara Youth Symphony on October 6 at Hahn Hall, Music Academy of the West.

rave New Work is not a series

of talks about the future. It is a series of encounters with what the future means,” said founder Michael Delgado. At last year’s inaugural edition of Brave New Work, a sense of seeking definition of purpose and vision hovered over the series, but Delgado and his team are back with a vengeance for year two of what is essentially a seminar and exhibition program geared around the inevitable interface of art and technology—including elements of AI and a broad canvas of topics and guests. Delgado, a Santa Barbara transplant from the L.A. art world, whose marketing company is Brandwell Arts, is the brains and ambitious force behind this effort, which unveils its second annual event October 1 and 6-8. (October 1 hosts an artist’s projection in another lodge, the Oddfellows Lodge, with the October 6-8 period as the concentrated schedule). This year, the seminar’s central hub of panel discussions and other activities is in the large former Staples site at 410 State Street, now owned by UCSB. The site will be transformed for Brave New Work’s installation. “We are going to fill the cavernous 155-foot-by-18foot-tall space with live, 10-12-foot palm trees and lots of other live flora. Artists Iason Paterakis and Nefeli Manoudaki are using technology developed by Alan Macy (founder of the SBCAST) to monitor the electrical impulses that the plants emit,” Delgado explains. “The artists ‘listen’ to the plants’ ‘conversation’ through an AI generative model they have constructed. The model translates the conversation into a real-time visualization that is projected along the entire span of the building for a completely spectacular, moving and immersive experience.” In a special “off-campus” performance, Brave New Work moves to Music Academy of the West’s Miraflores campus and its prized Hahn Hall, for a performance by the Santa Barbara Youth Symphony (on October 6). There, Beatie Wolfe will perform the Brian Eno score live to her film L.A. PipeDreams; Beastie Boys–connected producer Money Mark and Guggenheim recipient new music composer Gene Coleman are also on the roster. Elsewhere, the action shifts to Dr. JoAnn Kuchera-Morin’s innovative Allosphere at UCSB, along with a visit to the University’s MAT (Media Arts Technology). Branding itself as a conference exploring “New & Emerging Technologies in the Hands of Artists,” “Brave New Work 2.0” accentuates a particular environmental focus this year. Delgado’s operation is a work in progress, all about a subject very much in contemporary crosshairs. We checked in with Delgado to get the lowdown on what to expect from this year’s edition.

Celebrating and Exploring the Interface of Art and Technology, ‘Brave New Work’ Symposium and Exhibition Enters Its Second Year, with a New Environmental Focus by Josef Woodard

How do you reflect back on the experience and outcome of last year’s kickoff, highs and lows? Last year, for a

first effort, Brave New Work (BNW) was a real success. We learned some important lessons. The vision for a citywide event was put in place, but I stacked the programming too tightly, forcing attendees to choose one panel discussion over another in a different location. We also pulled it together in just a year, so we were building that ship as we were sailing it. This made it difficult to secure sponsors and properly promote because much of the programming didn’t coalesce until late in the process. That said, we have shown a real proof of concept and have demonstrated that the area is eager to participate in the discussion around the intersection of science and the humanities that we are hoping to lead. The premise of BNW is to engage the community in a discussion around the questions: humanity versus technology—is it black-and-white like that, or is there a third path? Can we, by convening world leaders in science, technology, and the arts, create technologies for good and dodge our annihilation as recently predicted by AI insiders? How did you come up with the concept for this year’s BNW? As I mentioned, we learned important logistical

things, and we have been able to hone our message and focus. Last year, many of the artists involved were concerned about the environment, and because Santa Barbara has a storied history in environmental causes, we decided to lean into that this year. BNW 2.0 is dubbed the “Environmental Edition.” Artists presented this year deliver thought-provoking, breathtaking experiences and meditations on our relationship to nature.

Do you feel that Santa Barbara is becoming increasingly plugged into the tech world and community? Yes. There is a growing consensus here that

Santa Barbara can become a true Renaissance city in our time. The Santa Barbara Coastal Chamber of Commerce promotes “TechTopia,” for instance. Florence was a beautiful location in which the collaboration of science and the humanities produced some of the most innovative technologies and spectacular art and architecture ever. The reason the Renaissance happened in Florence and not in France or Rome was because Florence was not beholden to the French monarchy or the papacy. Florence was a merchant city that enjoyed its own banking rules and enormous wealth. It’s not hard to make a broad comparison to Santa Barbara today: not beholden to L.A. or New York, beautiful location, new cutting-edge technologies (Google Quantum, Amazon AI, Blue Laser Fusion), legacy art institutions (Santa Barbara Museum of Art, the Symphony), and enormous wealth that can be argued plays by its own rules. BNW aspires to be the connective tissue in such a vision by promoting our local talent while bringing exciting international artists to collaborate with them, helping to form the city into an international hub of technology and culture. How do you see the ideal future of BNW? Do you have any kind of five-year (or other time frame) plan for the project? One thousand percent. Our five-year goal

is to have a citywide, internationally recognized festival that will activate all the current institutional partners while also incorporating more music and performances at places such as the Lobero and Granada theaters and the Santa Barbara Bowl. We are already in conversation with sponsors who are planning their spend for 2027 and 2028 and expect to expand programming next year. Who would you say is your target audience for the conference? BNW touches all the elements of what it

means to be in a particular place at a particular time. By that I mean BNW’s drive to collaborate has broad appeal to cultural consumers, concerned citizens, team leaders, educators and academics, civic administrators, multidisciplinary artists, research scientists, graduate and PhD students in computer engineering, linguistics, electrical engineering, statistics, art and philosophy, curators, journalists, venture capitalists, fund managers, and investors. Local flora and fauna are invited, too. For information, see bravenewworksb.org. For a more extensive interview, see Independent.com.

INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

THE INDEPENDENT

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

INDEPENDENT.COM

INDEPENDENT CALENDAR

SEPT.

24-30

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

COURTESY

native, guitarist, singer, and songwriter Nick Moss and New Jersey native Dennis Gruenling, considered one of the best contemporary harmonica players, will supply two sets of electric, modern, and swing blues for you to dance to on the spring-loaded dance floor. Beverages will be available for purchase. 7:30-10pm. Carrillo Recreation Center, 100 E. Carrillo St. $10-$45. Call (805) 668-6884 or email info@sbblues.org. sbblues.org

9/24: Book Talk and Reception: Annabelle Gurwitch Join for a featured talk and reception with New York Times best-selling author and activist Annabelle Gurwitch, in support of housing and mental health services for marginalized members of the community, for her 2026 memoir, The End of My Life Is Killing Me: The Unexpected Joys of a Cancer Slacker, about her coping strategies and how she cultivates joy even in her darkest times with humor and heartfelt insights. 5:30-7pm. New Beginnings Collaborative Center, 530 E. Montecito St., Ste.101. $50. Email development@sbnbcc.org.

sbnbcc.org/annabelle-gurwitch

9/24: S.B. Symphony Season Kickoff Celebration Join the no-host reception followed by the presentation where you can visit the Music Van tables and learn about instruments. Sign up to donate your time as a member of Green Room Gang, Musician Housing, Music Van Docent, or Special Event volunteer. Maestro Nir Kabaretti will share his inspiration behind each concert. RSVP online. 4:30-6:30pm. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. Free. Call (805) 898-9386. thesymphony.org

9/24: Chaucer’s Books Talk and Signing: David K. Israel Composer and author David K. Israel will talk about and sign copies of The Lost Mozart, about a college music student who discovers a long-lost Mozart sketch and sets out to finish the piece and give its world premiere, only to launch a wild plan that is part heist and part heartfelt gamble on the power of music, friendship, and second chances. 6-7pm. Chaucer’s Books, 3321 State St. Free. Call (805) 682-6787. chaucersbooks.com/events

THURSDAY

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

FRIDAY

SUNDAY

Goleta: Camino Real Marketplace, 10am-2pm

TUESDAY

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

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

SATURDAY

WEDNESDAY

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

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

tinyurl.com/CreekWeek-Art

9/25: Ecstatic Fridays: Dance, Connect & Be Free DJ Megi will build the music in a wave beginning with spacious world music building into sharper beats and house, then drops into a deep pocket of bass, glitch, and wubs with one more high-BPM peak before gently bringing the wave back down closing with grounding music, stillness, and deep relaxation. This inclusive, LGBTQ+ welcoming dance night is open to everyone — no dance experience, partner, or choreography required. 8-9:30pm. Elemental Aerial Arts, 22 W. Mission St. $15. Call (805) 215-6190.

tinyurl.com/Ecstatic-Fridays

& The Infinite Conversation, 8pm. $10. Ages 18+. Gitkin, 9pm. $30-$36. Ages 21+. Sat.: An Evening with Venice, 8:15pm. $35-$95. Sun.: The Pighetti Project Presents: Reggae Sunday with Soul Majestic, Ojai Department of Rhythm, & Green Flag Summer, 7pm. $25. Ages 21+. Mon.: SBCC Monday Madness Jazz Orchestra, 7pm. $15. Tue.: Patti Zlaket Album Release Tour with Steve Postell, Lois Mahalia, & Shawn Thies, Thies 6:45pm. $15-20. Wed.: Bungalow Collect, 8pm. $22-$30. Ages 21+. 1221 State St. Call (805) 9627776. sohosb.com

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

SATURDAY 9/26

9/24: Cutler’s Public House Nicole Sophia, 7pm. 418 N. Salsipuedes St. Free. Call (805) 680-4009. cutlersartisan.com/

public-house-events

9/24: The Grand on State Caelan Cardello Trio, 7pm. $39-$89. 1218 State St. Email thegrandonstate@gmail.com. 9/24-9/27: The Red Piano Thu.:

Live music, 5pm. Fri/Sat.: Live music, 3pm. Sun.: Live Music, 1pm. 519 State St. Free. Ages 21+. Call (805) 358-1439.

9/26-9/27: The 31st Annual Goleta Lemon

Festival Come out for a weekend of family fun, food, live music and dance performances, pie-eating contests, the Goleta Fall Classic Car Show, arts and crafts, and a Kids’ Zone with inflatable obstacle courses, archery arcade and tag, a Ferris wheel, bounce houses, a rock wall, mini golf, and more! 10am-6pm. Girsh Park, 7050 Phelps Rd., Goleta. Free; Kids’ Zone wristbands: $30, $40. Email LemonFestival@SBSCChamber.com. lemonfestival.com tinyurl.com/ Wristband-Tickets

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

9/25: Faulkner Gallery, S.B. Public Library Raíces y Sueños Alejandro Meola, 6-7pm. 40 E. Anapamu St. Free. Email info@sbplibrary.libanswers.com.

thegrandonstate.com/events

9/25-9/27: frustrated TV writer who seeks inspiration at

Goleta’s Environmental Services, Library, and Parks & Recreation Divisions present Story Beneath the Surface: Art Inspired by Our Creeks, Oceans, and Watersheds where community artists of all ages created this year’s magical gallery of works. 5:30-7pm. Goleta Community Center, 5679 Hollister Ave., Goleta. Free. Email snigh@cityofgoleta.gov.

Restaurant & Music Club Thu.: 9/24-9/30: SOhO The Hawthorne Experience with Duende Fri.: Vieux Farka Touré with

SATURDAY

Gloria’s Old Haunt Follow the story of a

9/25: Fifth Annual Creek Week Art Show Contest Reception The City of

Patti Zlaket

FISHERMAN’S MARKET

FRIDAY 9/25 a Palm Springs B&B that once belonged to Hollywood legend Gloria Swanson and is rumored to be haunted, especially when Carole Lombard and Billy Wilder help him discover the truth about himself and those around him. Fri: 7pm; Sat.-Sun.: 3-5pm. $20-$25. Alcazar Theater, 4916 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria. Call (805) 684-6380. thealcazar.org

Shows on Tap TAYLOR BALLANTYNE

9/24:

S.B. Blues Society Presents Nick Moss Band with Dennis Gruenling Chicago

FARMERS MARKET SCHEDULE

COURTESY

THURSDAY 9/24

BY TERRY ORTEGA & OLIVIA ISON

tinyurl.com/ Concert-with-Alejandro-Meola

9/25: M.Special Brewing Co. (S.B.) Will Stephens Band, 8pm. 634 State St. Free. Ages 21+. Call (805) 308-0050.

mspecialbrewco.com

theredpiano.com

9/25: S.B. Bowl Alabama Shakes, 7pm. $76.50-$145.50. 1122 N. Milpas St. Call (805) 962-7411. sbbowl.com

9/24, 9/26-9/27, 9/29: Lobero Theatre Thu.: Symphony Kickoff, 4:30pm. Free. Sat.: The Tina Turner &

9/25-9/26: Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. Fri.-Sat.: Live music, 7pm. 137 Anacapa St. Free. Ages 21+.

Rod Stewart Tribute: Two Legends. One Night, 7:30pm. $44.50-$74.50. Sun.: Judy Collins: Sweet Judy Blue Eyes: Farewell Tour, 7pm. $75-$150. Tue.: Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives, 7:30pm. $61-$226. 33 E. Canon Perdido St. Email boxoffice@lobero.org. lobero.org

9/25: Carr Winery The Genuine Article, 7pm. 414 N Salsipuedes St. Free. Ages 21+ Email info@carrwinery.com.

carrwinery.com/event

9/25: Deer Lodge Deke Dickerson, 7pm. $20-$25. 2261 Maricopa Hwy., Ojai. Call (805) 646-4256.

deerlodgeojai.com/live-music Volunteer Opportunity

Fundraiser

Call (805) 324-4461.

figmtnbrew.com/events 9/25-9/26: Libbey Bowl Fri.: Alice Phoebe Lou, 7pm. $53.60-$93.05. Sat.: Poolside, 7pm. $54.50-$117.75. 210 S. Signal St., Ojai. Email kristy.rivera@ojai.ca.gov.

libbeybowl.org

9/25-9/26: Maverick Saloon Fri.: The Molly Ringwald Project, 9pm. Sat.: Flannel 101, 9pm. 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez. Free. Ages 21+. Call (805) 686-4785.

mavericksaloon.com Civil Discourse

Protest

INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

THE

COURTESY

MONDAY 9/28

COURTESY

SATURDAY 9/26

9/28: S.B. Independent: S.B. City Council District 4 Forum Get to know S.B. City Council District 4 candidates Devon Wardlow, Genevieve Taft-Vazquez, Jason Dominguez, and Monte Wilson and this forum that will be moderated by S.B. Independent news reporter Ryan P. Cruz. Reserve your free ticket online. Live translation services will be available and livestreamed to YouTube. 5:30pm. Unitarian Society Parish Hall, 1535 Santa Barbara St. Free. Email promotions@independent.com.

tinyurl.com/Forum-District-4

TUESDAY 9/29 Stuart and His Fabulous 9/29: Marty Superlatives Five-time Grammy Award

9/26:

Freedom Music Festival (Festival de Música de la Libertad): Regulo Caro, Larry Hernández, and Roberto Tapia Join Regulo Caro,

Larry Hernández, and Roberto Tapia for an evening of regional Mexican music (banda, norteño, and corridos) where freedom will be the theme. A large portion of the proceeds will be donated to organizations that defend the rights of people without immigration status. Acompaña a Regulo Caro, Larry Hernández y Roberto Tapia en una velada de música regional mexicana (banda, norteño y corridos) en la que la libertad será el tema central. Una gran parte de la recaudación se donará a organizaciones que defienden los derechos de las personas sin estatus migratorio. 6pm. Arlington Theatre, 1317 State St. $79.30-$230. Call (626) 394-7709 or email kendall.lewis@metrotheatres.com.

arlingtontheatresb.com

winner and Country Music Hall of Famer Marty Stuart and his longtime band The Fabulous Superlatives (Kenny Vaughan, Harry Stinson, and Chris Scruggs) will deliver a genre-bending experience inspired by their acclaimed instrumental album Space Junk, a vibrant blend of surf guitar, steel-driven soul, cinematic soundscapes, and classic country swagger with a Malibu beach vibe. One dollar of every ticket will support Marty Stuart’s Congress of Country Music. 7:30pm. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. GA: $61-$76; premium: $126. Call (805) 963-0761. lobero.org

tinyurl.com/Tours-Train

9/30: Women Soar Higher Fifth Annual Beach Party This energizing evening will gather innovative and powerful women entrepreneurs, professionals, and community resources and dinner provided by the S.B. Chef Collective. Featured speakers will be Sydney and Tiffany Myers, a mother-daughter duo behind the innovative beauty brand Glimmer Wish, a clean, safe, and fun beauty brand that is joyful, imaginative, and colorful. 5-7:30pm. Cabrillo Pavilion, 1118 E. Cabrillo Blvd. $13.50-$15. Email hello@womensoarhigher.com. womensoarhigher.com

WEDNESDAY 9/30

will be acclaimed Rod Stewart tribute artist Stewart Sher, who captures the rock and roll swagger and will perform the hits that made Rod a legend, then Tina Turner tribute artist Shar Wils will deliver all the hit songs with the unmistakable fire that defined Tina’s legacy. Both will be backed by a live band, powerhouse vocalists, and dynamic dancers. 7:30pm. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. GA: $44.50-$74.50. Call (805) 963-0761.

lobero.org

9/26: Discussion with Russ Lewin and Gerry Lewin: Nature’s Mosaic: Yellowstone This presentation will include many original images and videos from the Greater Yellowstone area collected over the past 18 years of mighty rivers, unbridled geysers, bold wolf packs, grizzly bears, moose, and raptors and the experiences of nature that invoke feelings of awe, expansiveness, and connection to something much larger than oneself. 2-4pm. Concord Hall, Institute of World Culture, 1407 Chapala St. Free. Email donna@worldculture.org. worldculture.org

9/26: Hillside’s Annual Soirée : Afternoon Under the Oaks Celebrate the individuals Hillside serves and the incredible supporters who make the work possible with live music, hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine, and a silent auction, all while surrounded by iconic oak trees. Garden party attire. Proceeds will go toward providing the care and opportunities for the residents with developmental disabilities. 3-6pm. S.B. Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol. $150. Call (805) 687-0788.

hillsidesb.org

SUNDAY 9/27 9/27: Santa Barbara Beautiful’s 61st Annual Community Projects Awards Celebration The community is invited to the awarding of outstanding individuals, organizations, and businesses that advance the beauty of S.B. from a Historic Revitalization that celebrates our architectural heritage, to an innovative concept in a Commercial Building, a newly conceived downtown Open Space, and an Art in Public Places mural. 3-5:30pm. Cabrillo Pavilion, 1118 E. Cabrillo Blvd. $70. Call (805) 965-8867.

Herencia Hispana

Hispanic Heritage Month

couturepatternmuseum.com/events

9/30: NAWBO Lunch & Learn: Are You Getting Paid for What You Do, or for What You’ve Built? The National Organization of Women Business Owners invite you to learn the difference between being paid for what you do or for what you’ve built. Lunch included. 11:30am1pm. Work Zones S.B., 351 Paseo Nuevo, Floor 2. Members: $10; GA: $35. Call (805) 229-9119. nawbo-sb.com/events

9/30: Profs at the Pub: Dr. Joseph Blankholm Spirituality in Santa Barbara, Past and Present Professor Joseph Blankholm will lecture on the rich history of metaphysical spirituality in the S.B. region and metaphysical movements that continue to thrive such as Spiritualism and New Thought. He will also discuss how metaphysical beliefs and practices like energy, vibrations, channeling, and manifesting have become part of popular culture giving way to alternative medicine and the realignment of party politics in the 21st-century U.S. 7pm. Draughtsmen Aleworks, 53 Santa Felicia Dr., Goleta. Free. Email affiliates@ia.ucsb.edu.

tinyurl.com/Profs-Pub

book-signing event with Curator Emeritus of Vertebrate Zoology Paul W. Collins, MA, and Wildlife Biologist Justyn T. Stahl, M.S., two of the authors of Birds of California’s Channel Islands, the first comprehensive guide of the changing status and distribution of Channel Islands birds, ranging from prehistoric times through the present. Books will be available for purchase. 7-8:30pm. Fleischmann Auditorium, S.B. Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol. $5. Email kzsembik@sbnature2.org.

sbnature.org/calendar

INDEPENDENT.COM

Alejandro Meola

Concierto en directo de Raíces y 9/25: Sueños con Alejandro Meola/Raíces y Sueños Live Concert with Alejandro Meola Guitarrista,

The Audubon Society and the S.B. 9/29: Museum of Natural History Present: Birds of California’s Channel Islands Join for a lecture and

sbbeautiful.org

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Mes de la

COURTESY

9/26: West Coast Performing Arts Presents The Tina Turner– Rod Stewart Tribute: Two Legends, One Night Opening the show

9/30: Zoom Lunch & Learn: Origins of Fashion in France Join Alliance Française de Los Angeles and Couture Pattern Museum to learn about language, history, and culture behind French haute couture as well as the history of the international language school, Alliance Française. Begin a journey of learning French and studying French culture. Funds raised support of the Museum. Noon. Members: Free; GA: $25. Zoom. Email contact@couturepatternmuseum.com.

CO UR TES Y

9/26: Breakthrough T1D Walk, S.B. This family-friendly event invites participants of all ages and abilities to raise funds for T1D (Type 1 Diabetes) in this global event where every step will power research, advocacy, and support to improve lives while driving toward cures. 8am-noon. Leadbetter Beach, 801 Shoreline Dr. Free. Call (213) 233-9904 or email JParra@BreakthroughT1D.org. tinyurl.com/T1D-Walk

THE INDEPENDENT

ments invites commuters from Ventura County and Carpinteria to S.B. to get a firsthand look at commuting by train with hourly tours and a firsthand look at what happens after stepping off the train. Learn how to access up to 10 free train rides and enjoy giveaways and free street tacos (while they last). 11am-1pm. S.B. Train Station, 209 State St. Free. Call (805) 600-4477.

COURTESY

From left: Larry Hernández, Regulo Caro, Roberto Tapia

Lunch & Learn Pop-Up with Train 9/30: Train Tours S.B. County Association of Govern-

cantante, compositor y educador argentino-estadounidense afincado en Nueva York, que interpretará su fusión de ritmos latinos, rock, blues, folk y música del mundo con temas como «LUX», «La Inmigración» y «Tiempos Difíciles», incluido el nuevo sencillo «Viejo Teléfono» (Old Phone), una suave melodía de reggae con un marcado protagonismo de la guitarra que evoca el anhelo de conexión, espíritu y unidad. Argentine-American guitarist, singer, songwriter, and educator, based in N.Y.C. will perform his fusion of Latin, rock, blues, folk, and world sounds with songs such as songs like “LUX,” “La Inmigración,” and “Tiempos Difíciles” including the new single “Viejo Teléfono” (Old Phone) is a guitar-driven suave reggae tune longing for connection, spirit, and unity. 6-7pm. Faulkner Gallery, S.B. Public Library, 40 E. Anapamu St. Free. Call (805) 962-7653.

tinyurl.com/Alejandro-Meola

sept.

24-30 COURTESY

Shows on Tap

Mezcal and Agave Spirits Thursday, October 1, 2026 6:00–7:30 PM At the Museum

José González

Arts & Lectures José González Against the Dying 9/26: UCSB of the Light Tour, 7:30pm. $15-$63. Campbell Hall, UCSB 574 Mesa Rd. Email info@artsandlectures.ucsb.edu. artsandlectures.ucsb.edu

9/25-9/26: Rooftop Bistro & Bar Fri.: The Hoodlum Friends, 4pm. Sat.: Los Mezcaleros, 4pm. 6878 Hollister Ave., Goleta. Free. Call (805) 562-5996.

rooftopgoleta.com/ upcoming-events

9/25-9/26: One805!Live Music Festival: Rock for First Responders Fri.: The Temptations, The Four Tops, George Thorogood, Alan Parsons, Plastic Harpoons, plus Samantha Ronson DJ Set, 6pm. Sat.: Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Slightly Stoopid, Kevin Costner and Modern West, The High Kings, plus Samantha Ronson DJ Set, 5pm. S.B. Polo & Racquet Club, 3375 Foothill Rd., Carpinteria. $350$525. Email communications@one805.org.

tickets.one805.org

9/25, 9/27: Carhartt Family Wine Fri.: Jayden Secor, 5pm. Sun.: Bobby & Steve, 2pm. 2939 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. Free. Call (805) 693-5100.

carharttfamilywines.com/events

9/26: Cold Spring Tavern The Reserve, 1:30pm. 5995 Stagecoach Rd. Free. Call (805) 967-0066.

coldspringtavern.com

9/26: Freedom Music Festival Roberto Tapia, Larry Hernandez, Regulo Caro, 6pm. $79-$230. Arlington Theater, 1317 State St. Call (805) 963-4408. arlingtontheatresb.com

9/26: CrossHatch Winery Carly Rae Powers, 4-6pm. 111 E. Haley St. Free. Call (805) 691-9192.

crosshatchwinery.com/events

9/26: EOS Girlz Night Feat. Claire Z, NotKt, E. King, Cazner, Emmafornow, 9pm. 500 Anacapa St. Free. Ages 21+. Call (805) 564-2410. eoslounge.com 9/26: Solvang Theater Nashville Nights: Benefit Concert for Friendship House, 5:30pm. $135-$185. 420 Second Street, Solvang. Call (805) 686-1789.

solvangtheaterfest.org

9/26-9/27: Draughtsmen Aleworks Sat.: The Summerland Band, 6pm. Sun.: The Genuine Article, 2pm. 53 Santa Felicia Dr., Goleta. Free. Call (805) 387-2577.

draughtsmenaleworks.com

Explore the natural history of mezcal with agave specialist Jorge Báez of Licores Perros at a spirited fundraiser for the Museum. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the ecosystems that make mezcal and agave spirits possible, a more thoughtful approach to tasting it, and a clearer understanding of how to support its sustainable future. This event includes a tasting kit with six 0.5 oz expressions of curated mezcal and agave spirits, and a delicious snack from Los Agaves and Mexican cookies provided by La Condesa Baking Company.

Get your tickets today! General admission: $55 Preferred placement VIP table for 10: $600

9/26-9/27: Hook’d Bar & Grill Sat.: Colonel Angus, 4-7pm. Sun.: Dusty Strings, 1-4pm. 116 Lakeview Dr. Free. Call (805) 350-8351.

hookdbarandgrill.com

9/26-9/27: The Marjorie Luke Theatre Sat.: Herencia Sin Fronteras: A Legacy Beyond Limits, 6:30pm. $16.55$37.25. Sun.: Snatam Kaur – By Thy Grace: 25 Years of Mantra, 7pm. $50-$108. 721 E. Cota St. Call (805) 884-4087.

Beginning

TAI CHI

SB School Board Forum

Tuesday, Sept 29, 7:00-8:30PM Santa Barbara High School Library

CANDIDATES

luketheatre.org/events

District 1

9/27: Longoria Wines Live music, 3-5pm. 732 State St. Free. Email

Jacqueline Inda Karlsen Mark Philibosian

info@longoriawine.com.

longoriawines.com/events

New Classes TaiChiToni.net

District 4

Valerie Amparian Kevin Thomas Guay Rose Munoz Hosted by Coalition for Neighborhood Schools coalitionforneighborhoodschools.com INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

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The country’s longest running magic and variety show is celebrating its 70th anniversary! A dazzling all new revue featuring award-winning magicians, It’s Magic! brings to the stage the finest stars of magic, comedy, sleight of hand, and stage illusions. Sponsored by ParSonics Studio in association with Barbara White Design

THURS

OCT

Julian Lage Quartet

The GRAMMY® and Emmynominated artist has built a devoted following with her soulful folk-pop sound and a catalog of gold and platinum hits, including “The Way I Am,” “Girls Chase Boys,” and “You and I,” along with her latest album, For the Dreamers.

feat. John Medeski, Jorge Roeder, Kenny Wollesen with special guest Laura Itandehui

Prolific guitarist Julian Lage’s new project was forged for a special quartet featuring bassist Jorge Roeder, drummer Kenny Wollesen, and keyboardist John Medeski — close collaborators who had never before recorded together. The music emphasizes interaction, restraint, and real-time discovery over virtuoso display.

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FROM I.V. TO TV, UCSB GRAD COMPETES ON KING OF DRAG CHASE LOUNGE TAKES ON NATIONAL COMPETITION IN NEW SEASON OF STREAMING SHOW NICOLE SLOAN

hase Lounge plays with gender the way kids play with Roblox. The L.A.-based king is funny, dramatic, and exciting, and soon folks will get a chance to watch him compete on King of Drag, the first drag king competition show. Lounge’s love for drag had its foundation in Santa Barbara. During his third year at UC Santa Barbara, Lounge joined a few friends to watch season six of RuPaul’s Drag Race. It was a chance to do something fun with a few queer friends, Lounge recalled. At the time, Lounge said, he was deep in the closet but was drawn to queer culture. A few months later, he attended Chase Lounge a drag show on campus and saw his first drag king performance. It stuck with him. like there’s not one way for a woman or a Lounge was still years out from per- man to look, he can look like anything and forming himself, but by the time he gradu- still be a drag king.” ated from UCSB in 2015, the foundation Chase Lounge the king, he tells me, is was set. While he pursued a master’s degree pretty raunchy, and pretty close to who in Irish literature in Dublin, Ireland, he said Lounge is out of drag. he saw a ton of drag. By the time he moved “He’s funny. He’s political. He cares to L.A. at the end of 2016 to pursue comedy, about the liberation of all people, and drag shows were a mainstay. he wants to get there through things like “[I was] going to drag shows, being glamour and comedy and kind of doing obsessed with drag. Then I had like my things for shock value, but in a fun way own coming out journey, and realized I with [a] message,” he said. Lounge said fat liberation is part of his was like a lesbian, and then realized I was trans,” he said. drag — that no one should be discrimiOne evening in the late summer of 2021, nated against for their body, and that all Lounge and his friend went to see an all bodies can be celebrated. drag-king show at the now-closed bar Red“In the queer community and in the line. “I was like, ‘Oh, this is what I’m meant trans community, I think there’s a lot to be doing.’ So I quit performing comedy and like literally was like in that drag show the next month,” he said. When he started, Lounge said, he leaned more into what’s traditionally considered masculine: abs, moustaches, and the like. But as he transitioned and grew more comfortable with his masculinity out of drag, his in-drag looks began to explore all facets of gender. It’s an exciting, colorful, and hilarious mix — an apple (that costume, he said, weighed 20 pounds and required three people to get him in it), a leotard-wearing leather daddy, a sexy cow — though usually, Lounge wears a clown white face, a consistent “mug” base. “And at his core, Chase Lounge is always a transsexual man, and he always uses he/him pronouns,” Chase Lounge is one of the stars on the new season of King of Drag. Lounge said. “But he, you know, just

PAGE 43

YOU BELONG IN THE WILD STORYTIME WITH DR. RAE WYNN-GRANT COURTESY

by Christina McDermott

by Leslie Dinaberg of fatphobia,” Lounge said. “Especially with being a masc presenting person. It’s like, you should be skinny in order to be androgynous.” In performances, Lounge said, he shows off his body and “throws it around” on stage. For him, it’s taking pride in something people are often taught to be ashamed of. More folks will get a chance to see Lounge perform this fall as part of a cast of seven other kings for the second season of LGBTQ streaming service Revry’s King of Drag. Lounge said he’s especially excited for the range of kings and how they each play with gender. Lounge said he and his fellow kings were fast friends during filming (they currently have a group chat to keep in touch), and that he thinks people will like seeing those friendships develop on screen. And then there’s the queer and trans stories woven into the show on screen. “Representation matters at the end of the day, and so I think this is a really important moment for us to have this representation,” he said. As for Santa Barbara, Lounge said he’d love to return and perform, particularly where he partied in college. “I would love to come do drag in Santa Barbara and rewrite that [experience] for myself because I was so deeply, deeply closeted, but I loved all things queer at the same time, and just secretly wanted to be queer so bad.” B SHARPE

L I F E

King of Drag Season 2 premiered on September 20 and is free to watch on Revry’s streaming service.

It’s hard not be a little bit teary—in a good way—reading Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant’s new children’s picture book You Belong in the Wild. I interviewed the wildlife ecologist and UCSB Bren School researcher back in 2023, when she became the new host of the contemporary version of TV’s renowned animal adventure series Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild (read interview at bit.ly/4rnLTpB). Her research on how human activity influences the behavior of wild animals and media work have taken her to six of seven continents and more than 25 countries, and, particularly as the mother to two young girls,Wynn-Grant is passionate about science communication and using her media exposure to increase representation of Black scientists and explorers. In her 2024 memoir, Wild Life: A Scientist’s Journey from Dreams to Purpose, she traced her journey from a young city girl who was obsessed with nature documentaries, to becoming the first Black, female ecologist to host a major broadcast wildlife show. Her new book, out September 29, was indeed created to inspire the next generation of scientists and adventurers. Featuring vibrant illustrations by Sawyer Cloud, You Belong in the Wild is a colorful and heartfelt picture book about a young girl, Noa, who obsesses over nature documentaries and endlessly recounts wildlife facts to her mom, but doesn’t feel like there’s a place for her in the wild — until her mom takes her on a wilderness adventure at state park, where she meets a Black woman park ranger and learns about others who have carved out a place in wilderness science, and ecology, and realizes that nature—and the professional world—is full of diversity. Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant will be a special guest storyteller at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History’s Storytime in the Backyard, reading You Belong in the Wild, published by John Legend’s Get Lifted Books, at the stump circle in the Museum Backyard, followed by a book signing on Saturday, October 3, at 11:30 a.m. The first 50 families to participate will receive a free copy of the book, sponsored by a generous donation from The Cheeryble Foundation in memory of Steve Hicks. See bit.ly/4rmEHdk.

M O R E A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T > > > INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

Just announced! THURS

DEC

RICKIE LEE JONES SUN. OCT. 4

Jake Shimabukuro’s Holidays in Hawaii

OCT. 6&7

Hailed as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele” Jake is a world-renowned ukulele virtuoso whose groundbreaking artistry has redefined the instrument for the 21st century. Shimabukuro has captivated audiences across the globe with his masterful technique, innovative spirit, and deeply expressive performances that seamlessly blend elements of jazz, rock, classical, blues, folk, and traditional Hawaiian music.

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PAULETTE DONNELLON’S THE UNTAMED DESERT, AT SOLVANG’S CALIFORNIA NATURE ART MUSEUM, CELEBRATES THE WONDERS

PRESENTS

ZOOMING IN ON ARID WONDERS

SANTA BARBARA

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esert people are a special breed of folks, drawn into the lure and the lore of the arid landscapes and wide-open spaces that desert environments offer. Paulette Donnellon is one of those. A U.S. Army Desert Storm veteran, and now leader of photography workshops with the Anza-Borrego Foundation, Donnellon has been visiting — and dreaming about — this special piece of California real estate for more than 40 years. Six years ago, she got it in her mind to take JOIN THECONVERSATION! CONVERSATION! camera (and zoom lens) in hand to “capture” JOIN THE ARTISTS,SCIENTISTS SCIENTISTS AND AND TECHNOLOGISTS ININ A A ARTISTS, TECHNOLOGISTS the sights and ambience of the desert and has JOIN THE CONVERSATION! THREE-DAYEXCHANGE EXCHANGE ABOUT ABOUT THE FORCES CHANGING THREE-DAY THE FORCES CHANGING become an award-winning nature photograARTISTS, AND TECHNOLOGISTS IN A JOIN THE CONVERSATION! CULTURE, NATURE AND SCIENTISTS HUMAN EXPERIENCE. CULTURE, NATURE ANDSCIENTISTS HUMAN EXPERIENCE. THREE-DAY EXCHANGE ABOUT THE FORCESIN CHANGING ARTISTS, AND TECHNOLOGISTS A pher. Her current exhibition, The Untamed THREE-DAY EXCHANGE ABOUT THE FORCES CHANGING CULTURE, NATURE AND HUMAN EXPERIENCE. Desert, fits perfectly in with the stated twin CULTURE, NATURE AND HUMAN EXPERIENCE. agenda of Solvang’s California Nature Art >> NEW & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN THE HANDS OF ARTISTS << Museum. >> NEW & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN THE HANDS OF ARTIST Paulette Donnellon, “Curious Gaze, “ July 2025 As Donnellon writes, “This exhibition is >> NEW & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN THE HANDS >> NEW & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN THE HANDS OF A more than a visual journey; it’s a celebration 06, 07, 08 OCTOBER 2026 of the park’s wild spirit and a reminder that even in the harshest environments, beauty 410 STREET & UC 06,STATE 07, 08 BARBARA OCTOBER endures.” JOIN THE CONVERSATION! SANTA 410 STATE STREET & UC JOIN THE CONVERSATION! On her journey, the zoom lens is very ARTISTS, SCIENTISTS AND TECHNOLOGISTS>>IN A 410 STATE STRE STATE STREET PROGRAM AVAILABLE BRAVENEWWORKSB.ORG << & SANTA BARBARA ARTISTS, SCIENTISTS AND TECHNOLOGISTS IN A AT:410 much her friend, enabling her to peer in on THREE-DAY EXCHANGE ABOUT THE CHANGING JOIN THEFORCES CONVERSATION! SANTA BARB SANTA B THREE-DAY EXCHANGE ABOUT THE FORCES CHANGING the lives and the beauties of animal inhabitARTISTS, SCIENTISTS AND>> TECHNOLOGISTS IN A PROGRAM AVAILABLE AT: BRAVENEWWORKSB.OR CULTURE, NATURE AND HUMAN EXPERIENCE. THREE-DAY EXCHANGE ABOUT THE FORCES CHANGING CULTURE, NATURE AND HUMAN EXPERIENCE. ants of the area. She goes for taut close-up >> >> PROGRAM AVAILABLE AT: BRAVENEWWO PROGRAM AVAILABLE AT: BRAVENE CULTURE, NATURE AND HUMAN EXPERIENCE. Presented by: views, neatly framed, with an eye for composition and ambience. Presented by: >> NEW & EMERGING IN TECHNOLOGIES IN by: THE HANDS OF ARTISTS << The “best in show” image, to my mind, is >> NEW & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES THEPresented HANDS OF Presented by: ARTISTS << >> NEW & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN THE HANDS OF ARTISTS the aptly named “Desert Majesty,” a tightly 06, 07, 08 OCTOBER 2026 cropped image of a Peninsular bighorn ram, intently focusing on the dramatic presence 410 STATE STREET & UC and arcing form of the indeed big horn, and SANTA BARBARA just one wise, amber eye. This majestic beast >> PROGRAM AVAILABLE AT: BRAVENEWWORKSB.ORG << 410 STATE STREET & UC is, in fact, the official mascot of the Anza410 STATE STREET & UC SANTA BARBARA Borrego (borrego translates to “sheep”). SANTA BARBARA Presented by: Said mascot is seen in a very different and Paulette Donnellon, “Desert Majesty,” December 2024 >> PROGRAM AVAILABLE AT: BRAVENEWWORKSB.ORG << >> PROGRAM AVAILABLE AT: BRAVENEWWORKSB.ORG less peaceful role in “Ram Clash,” an action shot of rams locked in conflict. One animal of life and sights in this legendary desert. Taken at is caught with three legs in mid-air, mid-strike. All is the spot known as Seventeen Palms, “Daybreak at Presented by: not quiet and still in the desert. the Oasis” takes as its point of focus a patch of palm Presented by: She also takes a special interest in owls, those trees amid the morning light and a pastel-ish palette enigmatic and often out-of-sight creatures, images of color. Shifting to the different drama of twilight and Presented by: of which qualify as special “finds” for a necessarily orange sky over the earthly darkness seeming part patient photographer. The owl pictures appear in a of the desert experience, “Legacy in Stone” conveys In Partnership with: variety of forms. A virtual family “portrait” is the gist a time and atmospheric feeling. At the same time, it of “A Family Affair,” its subjects frontally placed, as pays homage to the site of a village once occupied by if the owls are posing for the camera. Single subjects the resident Kumewaay tribe. It is the exhibition’s sole THE DUENDE Sponsored by: FOUNDATION take the spotlight in “Curious Gaze,” with the bird’s reference to human habitation, if in absentia. All in all, with The Untamed Desert, Donnellon’s nearly overturned face seizing our eye, and “Once in a Supported by: gallery of images achieves the stated goal of its creBlue Moon,” a shamelessly sentimental nocturne and lunar shot suitable for a poster. ator, as an impassioned celebration of a particular Other bird life images of interest include “captures” place, and work-in-progress. That this place is within Participating Science Institutions and Cultural Organizations: of the iridescently colored Costas hummingbird and manageable driving distance of the 805 adds an eletransLAB another color-bursting photograph, of the strange ment of wanderlust in even those of us semi-inclined toward the desert. and stately California quail, “The Topknot Life.” The title plays on the quirky distinguishing of the quail, SUPERCOLLIDER.LA The Untamed Desert will be on view at California Nature Art Muthe top knot oddly protruding from its forehead. Atmospheric images contribute to the show’s over- seum (1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang) through January 18, 2027. See THE KOSIK NEUROBIOLOGY all objective of presenting a rounded and broad view calnatureartmuseum.org. PRESENTS

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by Leslie Dinaberg

BRIAN MCDONNELL

BEST-SELLING AUTHOR KEYNOTES HEROES OF HOSPICE EVENT ecoming a household name seemingly out of nowhere, as the author of the 2012 numberone New York Times best-seller Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail, which was adapted into the Academy Award–nominated film starring Reese Witherspoon, Cheryl Strayed has gone on to write the best-selling collection Tiny Beautiful Things. That book, based on her beloved “Dear Sugar” advice columns, was adapted into a Hulu limited series and continues to be performed as a stage production in theaters across the country. Subsequent books include the critically acclaimed novel Torch and the Cheryl Strayed best-selling collection Brave Enough. With more than five million books sold worldwide and translations in more invited to speak for organizations like Hosthan 40 languages, Strayed is one of today’s pice of Santa Barbara, who do such impormost influential voices on grief, courage, tant work in their communities. love, and resilience. She will deliver the keynote at the annual Reflecting on your life’s journey so far, what are Heroes of Hospice luncheon fundraiser on the things you’ve learned along the way that you Sunday, September 27, which is centered wish you knew when you started out as a writer? around the theme “One Wild and Pre- I’m glad I learned as I went. I wouldn’t want cious Life.” Inspired by Mary Oliver’s time- to go back in time and spoil the journey of less question, the luncheon invites guests exploration and discovery that writing has to reflect on love, resilience, hope, and turned out to be all along the way. the everyday experiences that ultimately remind us what matters most. Strayed How has becoming a parent changed you? In answered a few of my questions, ahead of every way! For one thing it truly taught me the meaning of the word sacrifice. It taught her appearance in Santa Barbara. me how strong I could be and also how You’ve explored the search for resilience pretty deeply and devotedly I could love. It also consistently in your work, which is also a large profoundly deepened my feelings of tenderpart of the work of Hospice of Santa Barbara. ness toward all of us. Everyone was someHow does writing about your grief help you cope one’s baby once. I often remember that. with it? Writing has always been incredibly helpful to me in making sense of my experi- Do you look at your own childhood any differences, and I’d say that’s especially true of the ently? I think so. It’s impossible not to comexperiences that have been as difficult and pare and contrast, especially since my kids complex as grief. I teach writing workshops had such a very different childhood than on occasion and I see the ways writing is I did. healing to so many of us, in part because writing almost always leads us toward truths What would you say are the most precious things that we might not ever speak. Writing opens in your life? The people and animals I love. us up. It invites us to get beneath the surface The only truly precious things are the relaof things and when we do that, it very often tionships we have. leads to deeper understanding and, eventuHospice of Santa Barbara provides professional counally, transformation. What is it specifically about this organization that made you agree to come speak to supporters? I have great appreciation for the work that hospices do, supporting those near the end of their lives with an emphasis on comfort and dignity. I’m always honored to be

seling, support groups, and patient care services at no cost to individuals, including children, teens, and families coping with the impact of a life-threatening illness or the death of a loved one. The 14th Annual Heroes of Hospice luncheon takes place on Sunday, September 27, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort (633 E. Cabrillo Blvd.). See hospiceofsb.org for more information.

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P. 49 Education

COURTESY

Fishing for the Future by Callie Fausey

or generations, Santa Barbara’s commercial fishermen have learned their trade the oldfashioned way — on docks, aboard boats, and alongside veterans who know the Channel’s waters by heart. Now, a new program hopes to give the next generation a more formal place to learn the ropes. The Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara and Santa Barbara City College are launching the Ocean Collective with the help of a $507,500 grant from the California State Coastal Conservancy. The partnership will provide training, mentorship, and infrastructure for people pursuing careers in fishing and other parts of the region’s “blue economy.” “For years, our fleet has worked out of a harbor with no room to grow — no place to store gear, no space to train the next generation of fishermen,”

WEEK

Santa Barbara City College

said Kim Selkoe, executive director of Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara. Training will include fishing, aquaculture, vessel maintenance, habitat restoration, and other ocean-related fields, with a focus on tribal youth and underrepresented groups. Plans call for a 16,300-square-foot facility on undeveloped SBCC property near the harbor, including boat parking, gear storage, and a fabrication workshop for students and the maritime community. SBCC contributed another $50,000 toward project planning. The college and fishing group began formally developing the partnership in 2023. Selkoe said the project could help sustain Santa Barbara’s working waterfront as veteran fishermen age and employers struggle to find workers with specialized maritime skills. n

BY VICTOR BRYANT

Dos Pueblos Flag Football

A Sign of Belonging COURTESY

n honor of Deaf Awareness Month, the Santa Barbara Deaf & Hard of Hearing Community (SBDHHC) announced it is now a fiscally sponsored nonprofit project of Access Central Coast. The partnership provides SBDHHC with a nonprofit structure to grow programs, accept tax-deductible donations, and expand its work connecting Deaf, hard-of-hearing, late-deafened individuals, and their families throughout Santa Barbara. “Our goal is for people to know they don’t Santa Barbara Deaf & Hard of Hearing Community have to navigate hearing loss or deafness alone,” said SBDHHC director Eric Brody. resources,” Brody said. “Teachers “Being around people who underand interpreters deserve to be paid stand your experience, learning for their work, while we want the ways to communicate, and simply people attending our programs having a place where you belong to face as few financial barriers as can make an enormous difference.” possible.” Donations will help SBDHHC “You don’t have to already know keep classes and community activisign language, and you don’t have by Indy Staff ties free or affordable, expand famto identify as culturally Deaf to join ily and senior programs, and reach people who may us,” Brody continued. “Someone may have been Deaf be experiencing isolation because of hearing loss. their entire life, or they may be 70 years old and just Funding is also needed to pay qualified teachers and beginning to struggle with hearing. There is a place instructors, as well as provide ASL interpreters and for both of them in our community.” voice interpreters at community events. “Creating an accessible community takes Learn more at sbdeafcommunity.com.

Deaf Community Finds New Footing

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

Brooklyn Hedricks

Community

ATHLETES of the

Hedricks finished with 119 receiving yards, one receiving touchdown, and an interception on defense to lead Dos Pueblos to a 31-20 win over Oxnard. In a 21-0 rivalry win against San Marcos, Hedricks racked up six catches, 81 yards, and three receiving touchdowns. On defense, she finished with 15 flag pulls.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Santa Barbara Launches New Training Ground for the Next Generation

Griffin Arnold Santa Barbara Football Arnold completed 25 of 33 passes for 302 yards, with seven touchdowns in a 48-3 win over San Marcos. His performance set the all-time record for TD passes in a Big Game. He also tied John Uribe (2008) for most TD passes in a single game in program history. n

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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

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NOV. 8, 2026

Cardio Confidential INGRID BOSTROM PHOTOS

Pull No Punches I

confess to feeling some trepidation when I first went to check out Warrior Soul Combat. Although I’ve done various martial arts–inspired workouts, I like to think I have the soul of a poet, not a warrior. Co-owner Will Schweizer had assured me on the phone that his school focuses on mindfulness and enables students to become the best versions of themselves through martial arts. But when I arrived for my first class on a sweltering July evening, I was confronted by a large image of a cobra on the wall. Warriors, deadly snakes … I’m just trying to maintain muscle mass and cardiovascular fitness. Was I in the right place? Apparently, I was. Schweizer greeted me warmly and gave me a brief tour of the building, which was familiar to me as the former Montecito School of Ballet and which now houses Evolution Fitness. The large studio where I’d spent hours in dance rehearsals has been transformed into Warrior Soul Combat, equipped with racks holding gloves and pads, heavy bags hanging from the transom, and thick tatami mats on the floor.

Inside the Welcoming World of Warrior Soul Combat by Amy R. Ramos For this barefoot workout, I stepped into a shallow tub of disinfectant, then dried my feet before stepping onto the mat to join the group, trying to ignore the fact I was the oldest person in the room by far. We began by expelling all our breath, then taking five deep breaths, the whole class inhaling and exhaling together. For the warmup, we traversed the length of the mats in small groups, sometimes moving backward, punching and kicking the air in movements and combinations demonstrated by Schweizer’s business partner, Albert Carrasco. Some of the warmup moves included jumps, which I generally avoid; Carrasco told me I could skip them, but I did them anyway. The tatami mats absorbed the impact, and landing on one foot was good balance work. With heart rates elevated from the warmup, we were broken into two groups. I was placed in the larger group of relative novices to concentrate on fundamentals. Paired with me was another first-timer, Hayley, a longtime soccer player who joked she was having a midlife crisis when I asked what had brought her in. Schweizer had told me that every trial member gets one-on-one attention from a coach for the whole class. While an apprentice coach named Ben led the more advanced novices, Carrasco worked with Hayley and me. He outfitted us with loaner gloves and helped us with our stance (feet set wide, front foot pointed forward). He practiced with each of us and then had us practice jabs, crosses, and hooks with each other. Eventually, we incorporated kicks, trying to time them just right to land on the swinging heavy bag. Then Carrasco and Schweizer strapped on pads and had Hayley and me barrage them with a series of combinations that steadily added moves: jab, hook, roundhouse kick, front kick, cross. My brain got a workout along with the rest of me.

As a sort of cooldown, everyone did some shadowboxing in front of the mirrored wall, which felt silly at first but which I came to appreciate as an opportunity to practice at my own pace everything I’d just learned. From other workouts, I was familiar with crosses, hooks, and roundhouse kicks, even if my form needed fine-tuning. But 70 percent of people who come into Warrior Soul are true beginners, said Schweizer: “They’ve never thrown a jab.” Ben, the apprentice coach, started about two and a half years ago with no knowledge of the sport, Schweizer told me, and now competes. That transformation exemplifies the owners’ firm conviction that Warrior Soul is a school—“a place of learning,” as Schweizer described it. Schweizer, who started studying martial arts in high school, met Carrasco through weightlifting. Although Carrasco is a former Marine infantryman and UCSB triathlete, he initially rebuffed Schweizer’s attempts to get him interested in martial arts, concerned about getting injured if he took up kickboxing. But Carrasco eventually came around, and when Schweizer got laid off from his sales job in 2023, serial entrepreneur Carrasco persuaded him it was the right moment to open their own martial arts school that would teach Japaneseand Dutch-style kickboxing. That cobra on the wall? It’s based on original art by Carrasco.

In subsequent classes, I rotated among different partners in the fundamentals group. Jackson, a former baseball player and aspiring commercial diver, was patient and encouraging. Alex, a music student from Texas, was slow and methodical, and found music in the Warrior Soul workout—in the patterns of combinations, the rhythm of gloves on pads. Gaya—like me, a woman of a certain age, and unlike me, a veteran martial arts practitioner—coached me on technique, emphasizing safety, and gave me tips on how to be a good partner as we took turns absorbing each other’s punches and kicks with our gloves and pads. We all counted off after Carrasco gave instructions for the next combination; on three, each of us would hit our gloves together with a satisfying thud. And Carrasco still came around to coach on form, reminding me to follow through on the cross, use the correct stance to derive power from my legs. I had asked him at the beginning of my second class what I could do to avoid the soreness I felt in my wrist after the first class. His advice: Don’t hit quite so hard, make sure to strike mainly with the knuckles of my index and middle fingers, and keep my wrist straight. It helped. Each class ends with another series of five deep breaths, all coaches and students individually telling each other “good job,” and more stretching. The stretching session provides an opportunity not just to improve flexibility but also for Carrasco and Schweizer to praise everyone’s work, recognize individuals for their progress, share personal reflections, and for lighthearted banter, like laughing about Jackson’s impossible flexibility and commiserating with Adrian about his cramping toes. One night, I stayed after class, got cleaned up in the shower room, and hung out for a while. A student named Natasha had baked banana bread—one loaf with Nutella and the other with chocolate chips—which we all promptly devoured. Gaya told me about her expat life in Portugal, and we exchanged insights on staying fit in middle age. Others stayed and got cleaned up, too—their next stop for the evening: Night Lizard for line dancing. “People join looking for community,” Schweizer had told me. Warrior Soul is “a safe space for people to be who they want to be and work on themselves.”

Classes for adults, teens, and kids, and open lab hours available. Members have access to a sauna, cold plunge, and red-light therapy at the Restore Lounge, located in the same building (book through Evolution Fitness at a discounted rate). Visit warriorsoulcombat.com.

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THIS WEEK IN ATHLETICS

@ G O G AU C H O S

@ U C S B AT H L E T I C S

U C S B G AU C H O S .C O M M T I C K E T S

CREEK WEEK Continues through Saturday! THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 (Continued)

8am Clean Streets, Clean Seas: Microplastics & Street Sweeping Webinar with the City of SB Creeks Division. Register at StormwaterAwareness.org. 9-11am Sycamore Creek Cleanup with the SB Zoo. Meet at Zoo entrance, 500 Ninos Dr. RSVP to NSeal@SBZoo.org. 9am Yoga at Linden Field Meet at Linden Ave & Sandyland Rd in Carpinteria. JDayeMackie@gmail.com. 11am-12pm s’o’ hil xus (Bear Spring) Restoration Tour with UCSB’s Cheadle Center. Park at 6969 Whittier Dr in Goleta and walk to restoration site. Bender@CCBER.UCSB.edu. 3-5pm San Jose Creek Tour with the Environmental Defense Center, City of Goleta, Old Town Goleta Neighborhood Creek Project, and County Flood Control. Meet at Jonny Wallis Park, 170 N. Kellogg. BTrautwein@Environmental DefenseCenter.org.

3-6pm Goleta Beach Creek to Coast Curiosity Quest with Explore Ecology & County of SB Project Clean Water. Meet between Picnic Area A and The Ellwood. CleanWater@CountyOfSB.org. 5:30-7pm Creek Week Art Show Reception at the Goleta Community Center. 5679 Hollister Ave. GoletaValleyLibrary.org.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 9:30am-12:30pm Arroyo Burro Creek Bike Ride with SB Urban Creeks Collective. Meet at Arroyo Burro County Beach Park picnic tables, 2981 Cliff Dr. Info@SBUrbanCreeks.org. 10-11am Falconry Demonstration at the South Coast Transfer Station with County of SB Project Clean Water. 4430 Calle Real in SB. CleanWater@CountyOfSB.org.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 9am “Grade & Grab!” Volunteer Cleanup with the City of SB Creeks Division. Meet at 801 Garden St, 2nd Floor. RSVP at SBCreekWeek.com. CShepherd@SantaBarbaraCA.gov. 9:30am-12:30pm Mission Creek to the Sea Bike Ride with SB Urban Creeks Collective. Meet at Rocky Nook Park, 610 Mission Canyon Rd in SB. Info@SBUrbanCreeks.org. 10am-12pm Santa Monica Creek Pollinator Habitat Restoration Meet at 4405 El Carro Ln in Carpinteria. RSVP to RWKolbe@gmail.com. 1-2pm Cachuma Lake Interactive Watershed Exploration at the Neal Taylor Nature Center. CLNaturalist@CountyOfSB.org. 2-3:30pm Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve Tour Limited to 20 participants, ages 8 and up. Meet at the end of Estero Dr in Carpinteria. RSVP to AJBrooks@UCSB.edu.

Visit SBCreekWeek.com or Facebook.com/SBCreekWeek for full event details! 52

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FOOD&DRINK

p.53

Dig In

Casual Vibes and Comfort Food at The Neighborhood

DRE# 01978090 DRE# 02010082

he Neighborhood Grill has been buzzing

and busy living up to its name since its June opening in Goleta’s Turnpike Shopping Center. It’s become a regular lunch, happy hour, and dinner spot for locals who come for the casual family-friendly vibe, straightforward-yet-satisfying comfort food classics, and wallet-friendly prices. Some stay to sip a cocktail or beer and watch the game on one of nine TVs sprinkled between the dining room, bar, and outdoor patios. This is a place that can be enjoyed in a lot of different ways. “I knew from living in the neighborhood and having a daughter across the street at San Marcos what this area needed,” says general manager and operating partner Ted Ellis, “and I got to have fun designing something that caters to the locals.” Ellis teamed up in the venture with businessman and owner Leo Bunnin, who took over the space after former occupant La Cantina closed.

Local. Reliable. Affordable.

Coming in on the ground floor of The Neighborhood Grill allowed Ellis to put his stamp on the decor and design in playful ways. The airy dining room’s indoor-outdoor layout, with a 20-seat, square-shaped bar, a sprinkling of rattan pendant lights, and retractable doors that open to two roomy patios give it a bit of a breezy Cheers-meets–Hawaii Five-0 vibe. A vintagepostcard-style mural is by Santa Barbara artist Michael Matheson, who also painted the nod-tothe-’70s mural for We Want the Funk. Another wall is adorned with Tom Petty song lyrics “Oh, my my / Oh, hell yes” rendered in neon, bringing home the message that this is a place to relax and have fun. On one outdoor patio, groups of cheers-ing friends sip wine and nosh on loungey patio couches around fire pits while tables fill with families, date-night couples, and groups (one is a meeting of Friday Night Lights youth flag football officials), and kids play in an adjacent fenced-in play area. On Thursdays at 6 p.m., local musicians perform on the patio, adding to the energy and getting bonus points for high-quality music that strikes the right decibel level to allow for conversation. Additional acts will be sprinkled into the schedule on weekends. Inside and out, diners come back for their favorites on the wide-ranging menu of appetizers, salads, main courses (available after 4 p.m.), burgers, sandwiches, and tacos, along with an

An assortment of dishes from the Neighborhood Grill including, clockwise from top left: “The City” sourdough burger, 10 oz. Flatiron, Blackened Shrimp Tacos, and Street Corn Ribs

FOOD & DRINK

Dynamic Duo Leo Bunnin and Ted Ellis Create Community Connections by Nancy Ransohoff, Photos by Ingrid Bostrom

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The Neighborhood Grill partners Leo Bunnin (left) and Ted Ellis

$8.95 kiddos roster. Standout starters include the bright, fresh ceviche from the catch of the day and craveable cut-off-the-cob “ribs” of street corn with honey-lime aioli, crema, cotija cheese, and a touch of tajin. Mains of tender chicken piccata and memorable bourbon-glazed pork chops are rounded out with a 10-ounce flatiron steak with cilantro chimichurri, fire-grilled salmon, and shrimp linguini. You can’t go wrong with any of the tacos, but the tri-tip with charred corn-lime salsa is especially tasty. Ellis points out that the meat is sliced super thin to bring out the flavor. It’s the kind of attention to detail that shows a kitchen that cares, even if it’s not fancy. It all pairs well with sips that include local draft beer, a concise wine list that shows off Ellis’s somm chops, and signature cocktails like the Neighborhood Negroni that subs amaro for sweet vermouth. As a sweet capper, Ellis encourages the warm chocolate chip cookie or double chocolate brownie fired up in a mini cast-iron skillet and topped with vanilla ice cream. Welcome to the neighborhood. The Neighborhood Grill, 199 South Turnpike Road, (805) 8692831. Kitchen open Sunday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Bar open until one hour after kitchen closes. See theneighborhoodgrillsb.com.

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orge Báez is on a mission to change the world’s—and specifically Santa Barbara’s—understanding of mezcal. Much of the motivation comes down to his own upbringing in the rather Americanized city of La Paz in Baja California. “I grew up knowing that mezcal was tequila for the poor people, and if you drink it, you can get blind,” said Baez, who’s leading a tasting at the Museum of Natural History on October 1. “I bought into what I now understand was a bad reputation campaign by the tequila industry to monopolize that category.” It wasn’t until he went to college in Puebla—on a full ride as an American football quarterback — that he connected to Mexico’s deeper culture. “I started seeing the indigenous roots of how the community still lives in terms of their food and their drinks,” said Báez. “That was my first approach to mezcal.” He learned even more by running a juice bar and living with an innovative chef, and got deeply involved in sustainability issues, based first on his architectural education, but quickly moving into food systems. “It was an easy jump to food because it’s also a very destructive industry that needs a lot of solutions,” he said. But when he threw a festival around Puebla’s water issues, tickets didn’t sell as well as hoped, leaving bands unpaid. Then their juice bar lease wasn’t renewed. Devastated, Báez needed to make quick money to settle debts, and he headed here on the advice of a friend. “I didn’t even google Santa Barbara,” said Báez, who came with his brother in June 2017. “We just got dropped off on State Street with $300 in my pocket. We didn’t have a place to stay.” He worked in kitchens all around town and helped open the bars at Santo Mezcal and La Paloma Café, where he hosted a number of agave tastings and dinners. Mezcal was taking off as a cat-

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egory, but that triggered exploitation issues and cutting corners in the inherently traditional process. “Seeing the boom of mezcal and the bad practices that it created within the industry, I felt very called to keep sharing about the good practices,” said Báez. He started Licores Perros — its logo is his two Mexican hairless dogs — with his brother to consult with producers on logistics and sales. He also launched the California Cocktail Collective as a catering company that uses regional ingredients and keeps bartenders working. “The hospitality industry that Santa Barbara relies on and talks about as the backbone of our community is not so much for the employees,” he said. “When it’s slow season, the first thing that goes is labor. We created this platform to give us some extra gigs throughout the year.” At the museum, Báez will pour six half-ounce tastes, starting with a highproof tequila (which is now usually watered back) and moving into a spirit made from the same Agave tequilana, but done differently in Michoacán. Then comes a traditional espadín from Oaxaca, a couple ensembles, which is a mix of agaves, and finishing with a sotol—not actually agave—from Durango. Snacks will be provided by Los Agaves. Báez is confident that Santa Barbara is prepared for this deeper education, which comes with undercurrents of cultural conservation and environmental responsibility. “Santa Barbara is a strategic place that’s open to the solution. It has the mindset, and the pockets to back it up.” He’s proud to be our conduit. “I’m happy and honored that I got called for this mission.” The Natural History of Mezcal and Agave Spirits is at the S.B. Museum of Natural History on Thursday, October 1, 6-7:30 p.m. The 21+ event is $55, with VIP tables of 10 for $600. Tickets are at sbnature.org.

Kyle’s Kitchen Opens at Target Center

PASCUCCI CLOSES AFTER 33 YEARS: Pascucci restaurant at 1230-A State Street has closed after 33 years in business. Owner Laura Knight says the longtime downtown Santa Barbara restaurant served its final customers on Saturday, September 19. The closure, however, does not mean Knight is finished with the location. She plans to spend the next few weeks remodeling the restaurant before reopening the space with a new name, menu, décor, and concept. Knight described the closing as bittersweet after “33 amazing years.” Pascucci had been a fixture on State Street since 1993, making its closure the end of a particularly long chapter in Santa Barbara’s downtown restaurant scene. Details about the new concept have not yet been announced. I’ll share more when I learn what Knight has planned for the space.

The Coastal Commission hearing will be a hybrid meeting that will occur both in-person and virtually through video and teleconference. Please see the Coastal Commission’s Public Participation Procedures posted on the Coastal Commission’s webpage at www.coastal.ca.gov/mtgcurr.html for details on the procedures for this hearing. If you would like to receive a paper copy of the Coastal Commission’s Public Participation Procedures, please call 415-9045202. The in-person hearing will be held at the City of Oceanside Civic Center, 300 North Coast Hwy, Oceanside CA 92054 The public hearing will act on the following items of local interest: Item TH 12a County of Santa Barbara LCP Amendment No. LCP-4STB-25-0016-1-Part C (Outdoor Lighting and Signs) Public hearing and action on request by County of Santa Barbara to amend its Land Use Plan and Implementation Plan/Coastal Zoning Ordinance to add and revise regulations related to outdoor lighting, signs, and other miscellaneous changes. Item TH 12b County of Santa Barbara LCP Amendment No. LCP-4STB-26-0008-1-Part A (Ordinance Streamlining and Housing Accommodation) Public hearing and action on request by County of Santa Barbara to amend its Implementation Plan/Coastal Zoning Ordinance to streamline and update the CZO, including the coastal development permit and planning permit process, and to modify standards for housing accommodation.

FOOD & DRINK

yle’s Kitchen has opened its new Goleta location at 6831 Hollister Avenue, Suite E, in the Target Center, a few doors down from Cajun Kitchen. The restaurant opened Thursday, September 24, completing its move to the new shopping center location after closing their Goleta store near Smart & Final last May. Owner Jay Ferro says the move gives the family an opportunity to continue the restaurant’s original mission of serving food while supporting organizations that work with the special-needs community. Kyle’s Kitchen was founded in 2014, when Ferro’s son Kyle was 10 years old, and the company says it has donated more than $300,000 since opening. “Eat Great Food, Help Great People” remains both its slogan and mission. The new restaurant serves Kyle’s familiar lineup of burgers, chicken sandwiches and tenders, salads, and milkshakes. The company is also continuing its $1 Tender Tuesdays, with customers able to purchase up to three chicken tenders for $1 each on Tuesdays. An outdoor patio is planned, adding to the seating currently available inside. “Goleta has supported our family and our restaurants from the very beginning,” Ferro said, adding that the family hopes the new location will become a gathering place for families, friends and community partners, “and where Kyle can continue doing what he loves most: welcoming people with his signature smile.” The Target Center restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., the same hours as Kyle’s Kitchen at 5723 Calle Real near Trader Joe’s.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION will hold a public hearing starting at 9:00 am, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Item TH 12c County of Santa Barbara LCP Amendment No. LCP-4STB-26-0009-1-Part B (General Ordinance Amendment Package) Public hearing and action on request by County of Santa Barbara to amend its Implementation Plan/Coastal Zoning Ordinance to add art, garden, and architecture tours as a new allowable temporary use, revise density bonus provisions to be consistent with state law updates, and make other minor revisions. Check the Coastal Commission’s website for the staff report and more meeting information at www.coastal.ca.gov/mtgcurr.html

TAP THAI CLOSING IN GOLETA: Tap Thai restaurant at 7060 Hollister

Avenue, Suite D-6, in Goleta is preparing to serve its final customers. Reader AS let me know that the restaurant, located next to Smart & Final, will close Friday, September 25, as its five-year lease comes to an end. Tap Thai opened in October 2021, replacing Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill, which had closed the previous year. The closure isn’t goodbye for the people behind Tap Thai. They will continue serving customers at Kanok Thai Cuisine at 435 Alisal Road in Solvang. GOLETA JEANNINE’S BAKERY EXPANDING: Reader Eric M. let me know

that Jeannine’s Restaurant and Bakery at 7060 Hollister Avenue in Goleta has filed for a permit to make a door from their eatery into the neighboring space currently occupied be Tap Thai, which is closing this week. I called Jeannine’s and they confirmed that they are expanding but don’t yet have a time table for when it will be complete. The popular Goleta eatery was a huge hit from the moment they opened in September 2019. STATE OF MIND CAFÉ TARGETS DECEMBER OPENING: Earlier this year, I

reported that State of Mind Café was planning to open at 918 State Street, inside the SBIFF Film Center building. I recently ran into State of Mind Café manager and project manager Katelyn Tymon, who tells me the café is now targeting a mid-December opening.

NE RU N Santa

R- UP

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Matt Kettmann’s award-winning Full Belly Files serves up multiple courses of food & drink coverage every Friday, going off-menu from our regularly published content to deliver tasty nuggets of restaurant, recipe, and refreshment wisdom to your inbox.

John Dickson’s reporting can be found every day online at SantaBarbara.com. Send tips to info@SantaBarbara.com. INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

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WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 24

ARIES

(Mar. 21-Apr. 19): In the practice of niwaki, Japanese gardeners shape trees so they look both natural and artfully composed. They prune and style the branches to dramatize the tree’s inherent character. Their goal is to collaborate. I recommend you experiment with a similar approach in the coming weeks, Aries. Try partnering with the living processes in your sphere rather than simply imposing your will on them. Ask yourself: What is trying to flourish here? Can I coax out some useful beauty? How can I coordinate my own intelligence with nature’s intelligence?

TAURUS

(Apr. 20-May 20): Your spirit creatures for the coming weeks are the slow-moving giant tortoises of the Galápagos Islands. They can live for more than a century. They conserve energy, move deliberately, and carry their protection with them. I believe you will benefit from embracing their ways in the coming weeks, Taurus. Refuse to be rushed or pressured, either by others or yourself. Proceed at the precise rate you need to. Your natural strength will thrive through your incremental steadiness. PS: Consider giving yourself a tortoise nickname.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): A master perfumer composes a fragrance in three layers. The top notes are what you smell first. They’re vivid and volatile. The next layer blooms gradually, unfurling the heart notes of the fragrance. Underneath everything are the deep, resinous base notes, which don’t fully reveal themselves for hours and cling longest to the skin. Let this be a metaphor to guide your joys and pleasures in the coming weeks, Gemini. Relish the bright top notes that flare and vanish, but persist long enough for the heart to open, and longer still for the deep base notes to emerge. Gather all the rich delights, not just some. California News Publishers Association

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CANCER

(June 21-July 22): It’s hard, scary work for a crab to molt its shell and grow a bigger one. As it waits for its new protection to grow, its soft, tender body is exposed and vulnerable. That’s why it often hides in rock crevices, neither moving nor eating until its armor returns. Your situation, dear Cancerian, isn’t nearly as dire as the poor, defenseless crab’s. But as you power through your own personal molting season, I urge you to enhance your psychic protection. You need to feel extra safe and secure.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22): Bats navigate by echolocation. They send out sounds and interpret the echoes. But when competing for food, they may also jam each other’s sonar, generating acoustic interference that makes navigation harder for rivals. A similar phenomenon occurs in human populations. Some of the noisy talk we hear is other people’s jamming signals. Consciously or unconsciously, they’re creating interference that may make it harder for us to navigate. Now is a good time for you to learn better how to distinguish between real information and meaningless hubbub. Refine your filters.

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Jan Tschichold (1902-1974) was a brilliant typographer who revolutionized graphic design. He left his mark on millions of books. But later in life, he rejected some of his own rules, returning to classical typography and critiquing his earlier work as too rigid. In this spirit, dear Virgo, I will ask you if some of your long-standing rules no longer serve you. Is it possible that some of your own “best practices” may have calcified into unexamined dogma? The coming months will invite productive heresy against your past selves. You’re allowed to contradict your earlier convictions. Hint: Your vigorous evolution requires it.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In the 18th century, Libran philosopher Denis Diderot was instrumental in creating the Encyclopédie. It wasn’t the first compendium of the world’s knowledge, but it was the most ambitious and comprehensive. In 28 volumes, it assembled contributions from a large

number of writers, including leading figures of the French Enlightenment. Robust collaboration was key to its enduring influence. In the coming weeks, Libra, I’m hoping that you, like Diderot, will be an initiator and facilitator of rich cooperation. Conversations, partnerships, and shared projects could generate insights that none of the participants would have discovered alone. By inviting multiple perspectives into the discussion, you will help cultivate a fertile weave of ideas.

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In the volcanic seas around Iceland, underwater eruptions sometimes build entirely new islands that rise from the waves as bare, black rock. During the ensuing years, wind and waves and seabirds seed them with life. Mosses, lichens, hardy plants, and nesting birds slowly transform the raw lava into a living shore. I’m rooting for you to instigate a similar process, Scorpio. My prediction: A development that initially seems stark or unfinished could become fertile ground for growth. Your perceptive instincts will recognize possibilities before they are obvious to others. Be patient with beginnings that look raw.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I invite you to achieve minor miracles that will enable you to brag at parties about how you created something out of nothing. Not in a loud, egotistical way, but with a sly glimmer in your eye, as if you’re sharing secrets about how reality can be coaxed into generosity if you approach it with imagination and chutzpah. Yes, dear Sagittarius, I’m ecstatic to inform you that now is a favorable moment to turn scraps into usefulness, boredom into invention, and vague hunches into tangible results. Be alert! Be on the lookout! Scout around for raw materials that have been overlooked or dismissed. Half-abandoned projects? Mercurial inclinations? Fugitive fantasies? Seemingly idle conversations that reveal marvelous glints and gleams? These are examples of the “nothings” you can turn into treasures.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I’ve got a rough, tough assignment for you: Dare yourself to be startled by your own exquisite beauty. Be bold and even brazen in appreciating what a marvelous creature you are. Can you summon the necessary audacity? I think you can. Please notice the ways you have underestimated your gifts, minimized your impact, or edited out your brilliance to make others comfortable. Allow yourself to feel the tender shock of recognizing that you’re more interesting and mysteriously compelling than you’ve been trained to believe. PS: This will help you call on even deeper inner resources in the coming weeks.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian writer Virginia Woolf was a fount of interesting ideas. Sometimes she pushed her active mind to track them down and capture them, but on other occasions, she enjoyed gathering gems that arrived as her imagination wandered and drifted. These “moments of being” provided her with small treasures while she was walking in nature, taking a bath, or doing nothing in particular. I believe that you are now primed to experience many such pleasurable eruptions of insight. In the coming weeks, pauses and lulls and intermissions will open unexpected portals.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-Mar. 20): For the low price of $199, I could expertly dispel that annoying curse you’ve been lugging around. But I would feel sleazy taking your cash when you are fully capable of zapping the curse yourself. So, instead, I will recommend that you perform the banishing ritual, then write yourself a check for $199. Here’s how. Step 1: Visualize an object that represents the curse. Imagine hurling it into a beach bonfire and watching it burn. Step 2: Bring to mind a person you believe contributes to the curse. Envision a rope that ties the two of you together, waist to waist. Then imagine yourself revving up a chainsaw, slicing through the binding, and declaring, “You have no power over me!” Step 3: Roll on the floor as you laugh and cry tears of giddy release.

Homework: Find out about my new book, Enlightenment for Rebels: tinyurl.com/s7s7s7s Go to RealAstrology.com to check out Rob Brezsny’s EXPANDED WEEKLY AUDIO HOROSCOPES and DAILY TEXT MESSAGE HOROSCOPES. The audio horoscopes are also available by phone at 1-877-873-4888 or 1-900-950-7700. 56

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HELP WANTED IT PROFESSIONALS: Sonos, Inc. seeks the following positions in Goleta, CA: Senior Software Engineer, Project Lead (SB0828): Provide multi‑level tech leadership. MS+6/BS+8. $182,166 /yr. May WFH 2 days/wk. Senior Software Engineer, Project Lead (NJ0726): Drive dev productivity by championing integr Gen AI tools in sw devel lifecycle. BS+6. $182,166/yr. May WFH 2 days/wk. To apply: contact Carmen Palacios, Immigration Mgr: carmen.palacios@sonos.com (Must ref job code) ENGINEERS: Sonos, Inc. seeks the following positions in Goleta, CA: Acoustical Engineer (QD1204): Design & engineer transducers from concept to launch & lead new tech devt. MS+3. $129,917‑$134K/yr. Radio System Integration and Compliance Engineer (CY0226): RF Testing & Perf Verification. MS+2. $159,453/yr. To apply: contact Carmen Palacios, Immigration Mgr: carmen.palacios@sonos.com (Must ref job code) HELP WANTED. Three days per week position as Assistant Manager of Budget U‑Stor in Santa Barbara. Duties include ‑‑ but are not limited to ‑‑ answering phones, accepting customer payments, renting storage units, answering customer inquiries, mailing of required legal notices to delinquent customers and compiling reporting for the Corporate Offices daily, weekly and monthly. Other routine office duties will be assigned. There is one other employee at this location so the atmosphere is informal and friendly but professional. Above all, customer service is stressed and held in the highest esteem. We are looking for stability in your work history as this position is for long‑term employment. Hours of work will be 8:30am to 5:30pm, some overtime will occur. Occasional extra shifts will be necessary, but these will be infrequent. The hourly rate starts at $20.00, DOE. Respond in person to Budget U‑Stor, 130 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, or call 805‑963‑5895.

PROFESSIONAL

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT CAMPUS DINING ‑ UCFS

The Administrative Assistant performs all student functions related to hiring, payroll, and personnel actions for over 400 student employees. Duties include processing bi‑weekly payroll, corrections and changes to payroll,

and separations in the payroll system (UCPath). Utilizes the timekeeping system to review, maintain, and troubleshoot timecard issues for payroll processing. Provides administrative support as needed to the Supervisor. Reqs: High School Diploma or Equivalent combination of education and experience; 1‑3 yrs: Experience working in an office environment and demonstrated ability to use standard computer systems including email, Microsoft Word, and Excel. Demonstrated ability to multitask and prioritize effectively. Experience with effective communication and strong interpersonal skills to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing. Equivalent combination of education and experience. Notes: Satisfactory criminal history background check; Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Hiring/Budgeted Hourly Range: $26.65/hr ‑ $29.62/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. Application review begins 9/30/26. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88892.

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR FOR A.S. TECHNOLOGY & INFRASTRUCTURE ASSOCIATED STUDENTS

Under the general direction of the Executive Director, the Assistant Director for A.S. Technology & Infrastructure is responsible for the strategic leadership, management, and collaborative development of Associated Students’ technological infrastructure. The position oversees computer, web, network, server, and strategic technical support and policy for a department of over 40 career staff and hundreds of student staff, and elected officials across six separate department locations. Serving as the highest‑level subject matter expert and technical escalation point for the technology team, the Assistant Director supervises the Website Developer, Information Technology Administrator, and Helpdesk Technician, as well as a team of student IT assistants. Provides advanced architectural direction, mentorship, and tier‑3 support across all supervised domains, including web development and design, server and network administration, and desktop support operations. To guarantee that independent, student‑driven goals are successfully achieved, the Assistant Director must possess the specialized expertise to effectively translate the unique technological needs of student‑led initiatives to central Campus Information Technology team, securing critical buy‑in, alignment, and collaborative support from campus partners. The Assistant Director holds primary operational responsibility for the campus‑wide Events and Ticketing system, coordinating critical networking hardware across multiple campus facilities. Additionally, the role manages and coordinates the technical execution of the campus‑wide student elections process, securely bringing together multiple campus departments, ballot initiatives, and candidates into a single, cohesive

voting infrastructure. Reqs: Bachelor’s Degree Required in related area and / or equivalent experience / training; 4‑6 yrs managing an information technology organization. 4‑6 yrs Experience with Critical thinking, persuasions/ negotiation, conflict resolution, mentoring and staff development, leadership/management, problem solving, human resources policies and procedures relating to management responsibilities; 4‑6 years Advanced experience using IT security systems and tools; 4‑6 years Experience configuring and managing network tools. Prior work in network administration, IT security, or cyber security. Experience in penetration, vulnerability, and incident response; 4‑6 years Experience with assessing business needs to determine how people, business processes and computer technology can be used to help accomplish the departmental objectives; Applies advanced Information Technology theories and concepts to manage and provide solutions; Requires a broad working knowledge of the applications programming development function; Requires the ability to gather, organize, and analyze data in the completion of assignments; Demonstrated skill in managing technical staff; Experience in the management of ongoing technology infrastructure acquisition and expansion, to include the identification and integration of suitable emerging technologies; Thorough knowledge of technical concepts and basic operating principles of data communications, computer hardware, vendor IT products, and software; Ability to understand the process involved to adapt, integrate, and modify existing programs or vendor‑supplied products for use within the technical environment; Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to effectively present technical topics to individuals and groups with potentially varied levels of technical sophistication; Experience of analyzing buy vs. build procurement for products for effective and efficient technology use. Notes: UCSB Campus Security Authority under Clery Act; Required to hold a valid driver’s license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies and procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program; Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/ Budgeted Salary Range: is $90,000 to $99,500/year. Full Salary Range: $81,600.00 to $147,800.00/year. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Application review begins October 5, 2026 Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88902.

and routing of financial commitments approved by Student Leadership. In consultation with other administrative and unit staff members and students, designs and implements transactional and recordkeeping processes. Reviews and processes invoices and disbursement obligations for A.S. Admin; A.S. Units; student entities and manages the underlying paperwork to pay vendor bills and student reimbursements. Tracks action items and financial approvals of all A.S. Boards and Committees. Administers philanthropic giving practices. Requirements: Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Organized and pays close attention to detail. Ability to solve problems, conduct research and present solutions to management. A team player as well as a leader in situations where required. Knowledge of office automation systems, procedures, and methods. Experience with Financial systems, accounts payable and receivable. Reqs: Associates Degree or Equivalent experience; 1‑3 yrs Computer skills and experience of Microsoft suite products; 1‑3 yrs Accounts payable or general accounting experience; 1‑3 yrs Adaptability, including implementing frequent changes in regulations, policies and procedures; 1‑3 yrs Billing, accounts payable or accounts receivable experience; 1‑3 yrs Demonstrated ability to independently prioritize, edit and proofread materials, organize and multi‑task with frequent interruptions and meet critical deadlines with a high degree of professionalism; 1‑3 yrs Experience in financial management work (i.e. budgeting, accounting, auditing, management analysis, program evaluation, financial reporting of program results), of which (b) at least 1 ( year must have been in a project management, supervisory or managerial capacity or (c) any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions below; 1‑3 yrs Experience with accounts receivable with troubleshooting ability to reconcile account balances, recognize unusual data, and interpret data. Notes: Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/Budgeted Range: $29.35/hr. to $31.38/hr. Full Salary Range: $29.35/hr. to $42.06/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. Application review begins September 9, 2026. Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88469

FINANCIAL ANALYST

POLICE DEPARTMENT

FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS Provides comprehensive coordination of financial activities and record keeping practices for the Department of Associated Students as part of the central administrative unit. Supervises the preparation of minutes for Senate, Business and Finance Committee and various Boards and Committees, with particular emphasis on the tracking

Summary of Job Details: Under the general supervision of the Lieutenant of Administration, the Financial Analyst provides analytical, budget, financial management, and organizational support on a wide range of financial matters for Police & Public Safety. Responsible for daily fiscal and business operations, including general ledger reconciliation, maintaining accuracy of information recorded in accounting systems, researching, analyzing and reconciling financial data, and the purchasing audit. Conducts ad hoc financial analysis and/or reporting for a wide variety of projects and systems.

Must work independently and act with sound judgment and confidentiality, anticipate job requirements, prioritize and coordinate multiple complex tasks with interruptions while able to meet deadlines. Supervises one (1) FTE. Reqs: High School Diploma or equivalent certification; Bachelor’s degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training; 1‑3 yrs experience in finance or a related field; Proficiency in the use of spreadsheet and database software; Ability to act independently with sound judgement and confidentiality; Ability to function effectively as a member of a team; Effective verbal and written communication skills; Attention to detail and ability to multitask in a high‑volume environment. Notes: Applicants are required to complete a background investigation; Mandated reporting requirements of Child Abuse; Mandated reporting requirement of Dependent Adult Abuse; UCSB Campus Security Authority under Clery Act; 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. Full Salary Range: $64,206 to $105,340/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 # 88291.

FINANCIAL OPERA OPERATION MANAGER

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS The Financial Operations Manager oversees the daily financial, accounting, and administrative operations of Associated Students (AS). This position manages a complex, multi‑fund financial portfolio that includes an annual departmental budget exceeding $13 million, restricted funds, and a broad range of programmatic and enterprise accounts. The position develops and maintains financial operational workflows; ensures compliance with University, State, Federal, and Associated Students fiscal policies; administers campus and departmental financial systems (Microix and MIP); supports audit readiness; and provides financial analysis, projections, and operational recommendations as directed by the Associate Director of Finance & Budget. The incumbent exercises a high degree of independent professional judgment in reviewing, approving, and reconciling financial transactions while advising on internal controls, fiscal compliance, and operational efficiencies. The Financial Operations Manager provides direct supervision of up to three represented Financial Operations staff responsible for accounts payable, accounts receivable, purchasing, travel, reconciliation, and related financial functions. The position is responsible for recruitment, training, performance management, staff development, and fostering a collaborative, service‑oriented team committed to operational excellence.

The position also leads special projects, represents Associated Students in campus and divisional financial management meetings, and maintains current knowledge of evolving University financial systems, regulations, and best practices to strengthen departmental operations and support continuous process improvement. This role is integral to safeguarding organizational resources, promoting fiscal accountability and transparency, and ensuring Associated Students fulfills its financial responsibilities to students, campus partners, and external stakeholders. Reqs: Bachelor’s Degree; 4‑6 yrs Experience in fund accounting, asset management, or financial services; 4‑6 yrs Direct experience with accounting principles and financial administration preferably in higher education and/or non‑profit; 4‑6 yrs Direct experience with financial analysis, accounting, payroll administration and reporting techniques; 4‑6 yrs Advanced interpersonal skills including verbal and written communication, active listening, critical thinking, persuasiveness, and advising skills; 4‑6 yrs Act with sound judgment, maintain strict confidentiality, and work effectively as part of a team environment and as an individual contributor; 4‑6 yrs Ability to pay strict attention to detail and prioritize work to meet deadlines among competing demands with minimal errors; Prior experience with financial programs a must; Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines with frequent interruptions; Advanced knowledge of fiscal operations related to federal, state and institutional fund sources (Required proficiency); Able to maintain strict confidentiality in all aspects of work; Ability to create budget reports and summary analyses; Knowledge of financial and accounting policies and procedures; Ability to quickly assess and annotate financial data; Advanced organizational and analytical skills with unfailing attention to detail and accuracy. Notes: Strict On‑Site Requirement: This position requires 100% on‑site, in‑person attendance. Remote or hybrid work arrangements are not permitted, and this condition is non‑negotiable. Non‑Standard Hours: Requires a highly flexible schedule, including mandatory evening hours and frequent weekend availability to support student government meetings, events, and urgent financial operations. Student Safety and Mentorship: Because this role heavily interacts with the student government, the incumbent must maintain the highest standards of ethical behavior, psychological safety, and emotional regulation. The manager is strictly required to foster a supportive, non‑punitive environment for student leaders; UCSB Campus Security Authority under Clery Act; Satisfactory criminal history background check; Position is funded by federal contract/sub‑contract and requires E‑Verify check. Hiring/ Budgeted Salary Range: $77,180/year to $80,000/yr. Full salary range for this position is $73,800.00 to $131,200.00/ year. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Application review begins September 24, 2026. Apply online at https://jobs. ucsb.edu, Job # 88769.

LABORER (CUSTODIAL) FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

Under the direction of Senior Lead Laborer(s) and Lead Laborer, will perform a variety of custodial tasks and other related duties. Laborer(s) will handle all heavy lifting and moving tasks, the moving of all furniture out of classrooms, offices, labs and the replacement of all furniture. Required to perform custodial duties in zone and campus wide as necessary. Reqs: Ability to perform heavy manual tasks and follow oral and written instructions; Ability to perform a variety of unskilled manual tasks; and perform other related duties as required. Notes: a) Visual acuity: Eyesight correction to 20‑20. b) Depth perception: Average depth perception. c) Hearing: Ability to effectively hear and comprehend oral communication. d) Sense of smell: Ability to distinguish smells of various chemicals used in the cleaning process and to detect odors emanating from potentially hazardous conditions. e) Problem solving skills: Ability to understand and apply University and Department policies and procedures to specific situations. Ability to exercise sound judgment in solving problems. f) Working under pressure: Will assist emergency clean‑up projects, maintain closet inventory of equipment and supplies, and maintain work assignment to department standards. Ability to accomplish work within deadlines; may handle more than one project at a time. g) Working with others: Needs to be able to work effectively in a team environment and needs to receive and follow instruction from supervisors. h) Ability to read, write and follow oral and written instructions in English. i) May be required to wear an UCSB‑provided uniform; 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; For multi‑hire positions: Some positions filled under this posting may be required to hold a valid driver’s license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program; Satisfactory criminal history background check. Hiring/Budgeted Hourly Range: $29.59 to $32.66/ hr. Full Salary Range: $26.79 to $37.49 /hourly. 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 10/5/26. Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88565.

LEAD AUTO TECHNICIAN

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES Performs comprehensive maintenance and repair on UCSB fleet vehicles (includes gasoline, E85, diesel, bio‑diesel, natural gas, hybrid, and electric). Work ranges from simple maintenance to rebuilding components, with an emphasis on technician and customer safety. Performs technically advanced repairs on computer controlled vehicle systems using appropriate diagnostic equipment. Performs repairs to vehicle’s mechanical components

Continued on p. 58

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EMPLOYMENT (CONT.) using appropriate shop tools & procedures. Performs preventative maintenance inspections and repairs. Performs vehicle emission testing. Provides customer service and roadside assistance as needed. Provides coverage in absence of the Garage Supervisor. Performs driving duties assigned. Accurately documents all work performed. Completes repair orders promptly. Attends appropriate technical training classes on current and emerging automotive technology. Participation in ASE automotive certification is encouraged. Must be able to work as a member of a team and share in the responsibility for maintaining a safe and secure work environment. Reqs: Minimum 5 yrs of experience diagnosing vehicle problems and performing needed repairs; Minimum 5 yrs of experience performing comprehensive maintenance and repair on vehicles (includes gasoline, E85, diesel, bio‑diesel, natural gas, hybrid, and electric vehicles); Minimum 5 yrs of experience utilizing a wide range of shop tools & equipment, including advanced electronic diagnostic equipment; Performs all necessary repairs to ensure proper vehicle operation & safety; Alerts Garage Supervisor to any non‑routine safety deficiencies. Test drives vehicle before and after repair. Installs accessory equipment per customer’s specifications; Maintains high safety standards while performing work to ensure the safety of self, coworkers, and customers. Notes: May be required to work overtime; 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. Budgeted/ Hiring Hourly Rate: $42.53/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. Application review begins 10/1/26. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88907.

REAL ESTATE OFFICER 3 SB HOUSING AUTHORITY

The Office of Strategic Asset Management (SAM) at UC Santa Barbara provides leadership and a broad range of professional services to support vital campus development initiatives, including physical planning, environmental assessment, and long‑range development for all campus projects. SAM manages a diverse real property portfolio that includes agricultural, institutional, research, residential, and commercial assets, which are administered in direct support of the University’s educational mission. Its core functions encompass the development and management of on‑campus and off‑campus leasing programs, the administration of complex contracts, and the oversight of faculty and staff housing communities. Furthermore, SAM facilitates third‑party development partnerships, oversees the due diligence process for acquisitions, and manages specialized licensing programs, including telecommunications and retail. Within this strategic framework, the Real Estate Leasing Officer is a vital member of the Office of Strategic Asset Management. Reporting to the Executive Director, this role is responsible for the professional administration of leases, day‑to‑day management, and operational oversight of properties and contracts owned or acquired by the University. The Officer ensures that all real estate operations and transactions incorporate facilities management requirements and cost accounting principles while remaining in strict compliance with University of California (UC) policies and campus regulations, directly in support of the University’s educational mission; Reqs: Bachelor’s

degree or equivalent combination of education and experience. 4‑6 yrs experience in Of professional experience in related area/field. Notes: Hiring/Budgeted Salary $100,000 to $120,000/year. The full salary range for this position is $90,600 ‑ $166,400/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 10/1/26. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88801.

SR. COOK

CAMPUS DINING The Sr. Cook serves as a working supervisor performing skilled culinary duties and overseeing a kitchen area serving up to 1,500 meals per shift. Ensures that high standards of food quality, service, sanitation and safety are met according to Dining Services, University and Federal guidelines. Trains full time and student cooks in new culinary techniques, food and sanitation guidelines. Maintains efficient food preparation methods. Serves as a backup in the absence of the Principal Cook. Reqs: High School or Equivalent combination of education and experience; 1‑3 yrs Knowledge of and experience with advanced culinary techniques, including but not inclusive of sautéing, grilling, frying, steaming, preparing sauces and stocks. This includes experience working with commercial kitchen equipment and preparing large quantities; Equivalent combination of education and experience. Notes: Satisfactory criminal history background check; Visa sponsorship is not available for this position; Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work standing for up to 8 hours per day; Work hours/days may vary. Hiring/ Budgeted Hourly Range: $26.78/hr ‑ $27.29/hr. Full Salary Range: $26.78/hr ‑ $27.86/hr. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience; the budget for the position; and the application of fair, equitable, and consistent pay practices at the University. 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 9/29/26. Apply online at https:// jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88860.

SR. CUSTODIAN

HSKP ( R E S H ‑ LO D G I N G / HOUSEKEEPING) Under the general supervision of the Assistant Residence Hall Manager or Residence Hall Manager, performs duties in accordance with established standards and instruction, for University owned Residence Halls, Apartments and Dining Facilities. May be required to perform other duties as assigned to meet the operational needs of the department. Promotes a customer service environment to residents and clients. Assists with the development and maintenance of a work environment which is conducive to meeting the mission of the organization and supports the EEP. Responsible for completing job duties that demonstrate support for the Operations Team. Initiates communication directly with co‑workers and or supervisor to improve and clarify working relationships, identifying problems and concerns, and seeking resolution to work‑related conflicts. Reqs: Working knowledge and experience in utilizing the following equipment: vacuums, conventional and high‑speed buffers, extractors and related custodial equipment desirable; Must have

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SERVICE effective communication skills. Ability to interact as a team member with sensitivity towards a multicultural work environment. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with others as a team. Notes: 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; For multi‑hire positions: Some positions filled under this posting may be required to hold a valid driver’s license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/ or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program; Satisfactory criminal history background check. Budgeted/Hiring Rate: $26.79/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 # 88731.

DIRECTORY CAREGIVING SERVICES PRIMARY CARE provider and pain management specialist available for in‑home care, with on call or by appointment pain support 14 years licensed in acupuncture massage and patient care. Cancer treatment post op, paraplegic and end of life support. Kristen Swegles LAc., MTCM, CMP 805‑729‑5279

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REAL ESTATE

UNDERGRADUATE ADVISOR SOCIOLOGY DEPARTMENT

Under the general supervision of the Business Officer, with additional direction provided by the Department Chair, is responsible for coordinating undergraduate services for the Department of Sociology. Along with another Undergraduate Advisor, provides individual academic advising to 1600+ pre‑ and full‑ majors in Sociology. Advises students and faculty on all aspects of undergraduate affairs (ie. major requirements, academic planning, course requirements, academic problems, transfer coursework, independent studies, and graduation, etc). Coordinates quarterly schedule of classes, annual copy for general catalog, and master course approvals. Has authority to act independently, making decisions that affect students’ academic programs. Works with College of Letters and Science advisors to accurately communicate college policies to students. Provides input to the Business Officer, Department Chair, and the Undergraduate Program Committee regarding a wide variety of issues affecting students.Reqs: Bachelor’s Degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training; 1‑3 years Student advising experience at college level; Basic knowledge of advising and counseling techniques; Knowledge of Department / School / college policies, procedures, and requirements; Skills in judgement and decision‑making, problem solving; Ability to multi‑task. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including active listening; Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, assertiveness and diplomacy, and critical attention to detail; Able to exercise good judgment, common sense, and discretion, while providing careful attention to detail; Ability to prioritize multiple tasks with minimal supervision set boundaries and adhere to them; Creatively problem solve; Ability to work effectively and cooperatively as a staff team member, and to work well with faculty members. Hiring/Budgeted Salary or Hourly Range: $27.06 to $32.00/ hr. Full Salary Range: $27.06 ‑ $45.76/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. Application review begins 10/5/26. Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb.edu, Job # 88699.

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LEGALS ADMINISTER OF ESTATE NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: JENNIFER LYNN BRADSHAW CASE NUMBER: 26PR00359 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: JENNIFER LYNN BRADSHAW A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: HEATHER NOELLE BRADSHAW in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that : HEATHER NOELLE BRADSHAW be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 10/15/2026 at 9:00 a.m. Dept: SB5 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, located at 1100 Anacapa Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101 SOUTH COUNTY‑PROBATE DIVISION IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58 (b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court

a Request for Special Notice (form DE‑154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Angela Braun, Executive Officer 07/22/2026 by Kim Gallegos, Deputy. Attorney for Petitioner: Anthony D. Zinnanti 4500 Park Granada, Suite 202, Calabasas, CA 91302; (818)‑273‑1100 Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1 2026.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: FIRST CALL PLUMBING: 8415 Morro Rd Atascadero, CA 93422; Central Coast Casualty Restoration, 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 Nov 23, 2016. Filed by: RUTH M SNYDER/ CORPORATE SECRETARY with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 25, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002141. Published: Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CALI BOOKKEEPING: 1211 Coast Village Road, Ste 1 Santa Barbara, CA 93108; David Machacek 160 Holly Avenue Apt 9 Carpinteria, CA 93013 This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 01, 2026. Filed by: DAVID MACHACEK/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 25, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002131. Published: Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: TORNOE ROAD ASSOCIATION: 960 Tornoe Road Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Auralee Bunch (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: AURALEE BUNCH/ PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 25, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph

E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002146. Published: Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CARE CONNECTION SERVICES: 2155 Ortega Hill Rd, #2 Summerland, CA 93067; Care Connection Services (same address) This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 29, 2026. Filed by: ROBBIN BUXTON/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 29, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0001963. Published: Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: TRADEBUILT: 2090 Holly Ln Santa Barbara, CA 93463; Amanda Dwyer (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jun 30, 2026. Filed by: AMANDA DWYER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Jul 24, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0001920. Published: Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BUELLTON GARAGE AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR: 254 E Highway 246 Buellton, CA 93427; Buellton Garage 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 Jun 01, 2015. Filed by: JENNIFER HURNBLAD/CFO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 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 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002157. Published: Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: FIRST CALL REMODEL AND HOME REPAIR: 8415 Morro Rd Atascadero, CA 93422; Central Coast Casualty Restoration, Inc. (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Filed by: RUTH M SNYDER/

Ordinance No. 5303

An Ordinance Amending Section 35-1, the County Land Use and Development Code (LUDC), of Chapter 35, Zoning, of the Santa Barbara County Code, by Amending Article 35.5, Oil and Gas, Wind Energy and Cogeneration Facilities; to Prohibit Drilling New Onshore Oil and Gas Wells and Revise Existing Regulations and Development Standards for Consistency. 26ORD-00001 Ordinance No. 5304 An Ordinance Amending Article II, the Coastal Zoning Ordinance, of Chapter 35, Zoning, of the Santa Barbara County Code, by Amending Division 9, Oil and Gas Facilities, to Prohibit Drilling New Onshore Oil and Gas Wells and Revise Existing Regulations and Development Standards for Consistency. 26ORD-00002 Passed, approved and adopted by the Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Barbara, State of California, on this 15th day of September 2026, by the following vote: Ayes: Supervisors Lee, Capps and Hartmann Noes: Supervisors Nelson and Lavagnino Absent: None Abstain: None

JANA PETERSEN CLERK OF THE BOARD By: Sheila de la Guerra – Deputy Clerk NOTE: A complete copy of Ordinance Nos. 5303 & 5304 is on file with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and is available for public inspection and copying in that office in accordance with the California Public Records Act, Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 6250) of Division 7 of Title 1.

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High

Thu 24

Low

High

Low

High

2:56 am 0.3

9:12 am 4.7

2:50 pm 1.5

8:54 pm 5.4

Fri 25

3:20 am 0.4

9:32 am 5.1

3:27 pm 1.1

9:32 pm 5.3

Sat 26

3:43 am 0.6

9:55 am 5.4

4:06 pm 0.7

10:13 pm 5.1

Sun 27

4:08 am 1.0

10:20 am 5.7

4:48 pm 0.4

10:57 pm 4.7

Mon 28

4:24 am 1.4

10:48 am 6.0

5:35 pm 0.2

11:48 pm 4.2

Tue 29

5:02 am 1.8

11:21 am 6.1

6:29 pm 0.1

Wed 30

12:51 am 3.8

5:31 am 2.3

12:01 pm 6.1

7:33 pm 0.2

Thu 1

2:14 am 3.4

6:03 am 2.8

12:51 pm 5.9

8:50 pm 0.3

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31. Experiment site 53. Southern Hemisphere species marketed as Chilean 32. Cutting-in question 1. One on the floor? 33. Poet Hughes sea bass 6. Woolly mom 34. Eggs, in science 55. “Well, golly!” 9. Overpriced 56. Theater sign 35. Not many 13. “In ___” (Nirvana album) 57. “La Bamba” actor Morales 36. Passage 14. Situated over 58. “Freaks and ___” (NBC one- 37. Irish fuel sources 15. Mughal Empire’s capital, season wonder) 42. Door word once 59. “Holy ___!” 43. “Slumdog Millionaire” setting 16. Wand-waving result 60. “The Phoenician Scheme” 44. Outdoor gear retailer 17. Prawn breath freshener? director Anderson 45. “I’ve found it!” 19. Clone of a corn salsa bit? 61. Upper house of France’s 46. Least rainy 21. Rapper ___ Yachty Parliament 47. California art museum, 22. Lee who cameoed with “the” in Marvel movies 48. Flat-topped hills 23. Claire of “The Crown” 1. Microblogging site 50. Homeland 24. Went over, as a time limit 2. Firenze’s locale 51. ___ en place (professional 26. Take in 3. Titles on state records kitchen setup) 27. Limit 4. “All By Myself” singer Carmen 52. 1950s South Korean 30. The whole thing 5. Winter ice melter president Syngman 31. Flowery keepsake 6. Hawke of “The Lowdown” 53. President pro ___ 32. Pick up and go 7. Tattered 54. Palindromic brand of 33. Beefsteak photo as 8. Blunder of all blunders kitchenware a desktop backdrop? 9. Grumpy companion ©2026 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@jonesincrosswords. 38. Tied 10. Rapper Azalea com) For answers to this puzzle, call: 1-900-226-2800, 99 cents per minute. Must be 18+. Or to bill to your credit card, call: 1-800-655-6548. Reference puzzle #1307 39. Grab hold of 11. “Minions: The Rise of ___” LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION: 40. Part of REM 12. Smithfield product 41. “Law & Order” pros 14. Words after “have” or “take” 42. Roll layer 18. Beside the point 43. Fatigued 20. Army group? 47. TV chef Fieri 25. Prepare for action 48. Satisfy 26. Wriggling critter 49. “Ben-___” (Best Picture 27. Capital served by one end at the 1960 Oscars) of the ÿresund Bridge 50. Where Grover and The Count 28. Mass ___ (MIT’s addr.) can check out books? 29. As directed by

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LEGALS (CONT.) CORPORATE SECRETARY with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 25, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002142. Published: Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN 2026‑0002046 The following person(s) is doing business as: LITTLE RANGERS, 901 WELDON RD, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93109, County of SANTA BARBARA. ROOTS & SKY VENTURES LLC, 901 WELDON RD, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93109 State of Inc./Org./Reg: 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 JUL 01, 2026 /s/ TRACY THOMAS, MANAGING MEMBER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 08/12/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 9/3, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24/26 CNS‑4073252# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BOOKS THAT LOVE CHILDREN: 4622 Vista Buena Road Santa Barbara, CA 93110; Books That Love Children (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 07, 2026. Filed by: BRANDI BATES/DIRECTOR with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 10, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002021. Published: Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BEACH CITIES BRASS: 278 Ellwood Beach Dr #14 Santa Barbara, CA 93117; James R Labertew (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, 2000. Filed by: JAMES R. LABERTEW/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 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 81. FBN Number: 2026‑0002235. Published: Sep 10, 17, 24. Oct 1 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GOODWIN PROPERTIES: 2000 State Street Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Win Good Inc. (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 31, 2026. Filed by: KEVIN GOODWIN/ CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County

on Aug 31, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 81. FBN Number: 2026‑0002188. Published: Sep 10, 17, 24. Oct 1 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: OSITA: 1224 Camino Palomera Santa Barbara, CA 93111; Raphael Simon (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 01, 2026. Filed by: RAPHAEL SIMON with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 17, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002068. Published: Sep 10, 17, 24. Oct 1 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SB MOBILE NOTARY: 4509A Auhay Drive Santa Barbara, CA 93110; Nels C Henderson (same address) Alexis C Henderson (same address) This business is conducted by A Married Couple Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on May 21, 2020. Filed by: NELS AND ALEXIS HENDERSON/OWNERS with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 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 81. FBN Number: 2026‑0002163. Published: Sep 10, 17, 24. Oct 1 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BLUE WATER REVOLUTION: 3463 State Street, #328 Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Michael P. Kenny (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: MICHAEL P KENNY/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 31, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002184. Published: Sep 10, 17, 24. Oct 1 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BRIDGES: 1309 State Street, First Floor Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Bridges Gallery 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 Sep 01, 2026. Filed by: JESSICA BRIDGES/GALLERY AND MANAGING DIRECTOR with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 03, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002226. Published: Sep 10, 17, 24. Oct 1 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PLUMBIFY PLUMBING SOLUT: 809 La Street, Suite A Santa Barbara, CA 93101;

Glenn E Schuster (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jun 24, 2026. Filed by: GLENN E SCHUSTER/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 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 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002173. Published: Sep 10, 17, 24. Oct 1 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: M. BRODERIE: 1187 Coast Village Rd, Suite 1‑151 Montecito, CA 93108; General Workshop 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 Sep 10, 2026 Filed by: ALISON VINOLY/ MANAGER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 11, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002286. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: INSPIRATION OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY: 533 E. Micheltorena Street, Ste 103 Santa Barbara, CA 93103; Amber A Salas (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 3, 2026 Filed by: AMBER SALAS/MSOT, OTR/L with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 8, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002249. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RED ISLAND RESTORATION SAROBIDY CREATIONS: 1534 San Miguel Ave Santa Barbara, CA 93109; Alissa Shattenberg (same address) James Shattenberg (same address) This business is conducted by A Married Couple Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 1, 2026 Filed by: ALISSA SHATTENBERG/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 2, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 49. FBN Number: 2026‑0002207. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: WITHIN PSYCHOLOGY: 5951 Encina Rd, 200 Santa Barbara, CA 93117; Dr Erica Haines Psychological Services Inc. (same address) This business is conducted by A Corporation Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 1, 2026 Filed by: ERICA HAINES/ OWNER/CEO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 10,

NOTICE TO SUBCONTRACTORS/SUPPLIERS & RESIDENTS Wallace & Smith Contractors invites bids from Qualified Subcontractors, Suppliers, and Residents to bid on the following project: SAN MARCOS RANCH MARKET RATE APARTMENTS. This is new construction for 720 apartment units in (36) 3-Story buildings with 29 acres of site work and amenity buildings. ALL TRADES NEEDED. If you would like to be placed on our bid list and receive an invite, please contact Wallace & Smith Contractors via phone at 661-327-1436 or email tbailey@wallacesmith.com / bids@wallacesmith.com bids@wallacesmith.com. Include contact person, email, phone number and trade type in your bid request. Complete bids must be received no later than FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9th, 2026, BY 2:00PM. 2:00PM Wallace & Smith Contractors is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 60

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2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002280. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NOVEL READS PRESS: 7242 Del Norte Dr. Santa Barbara, CA 93117; Patricia Totton 7127 Hollister Ave #25 A Goleta, CA 93317 This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 2, 2026 Filed by: PATRICIA TOTTON with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 8, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002252. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SAN ROQUE CABINETS: 6 Harbor Way, Suite 192 Santa Barbara, CA 93109; Craig S Gutshall (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: CRAIG S GUTSHALL with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 10, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002275. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CENTRAL COAST CELEBRATION STATION: 218 S K St. Apt D Lompoc, CA 93436; Sonya S Palos (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: SONYA PALOS with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 10, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002278. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DISCOUNT MOBILE WINDOW SCREENS: 5369 Traci Dr Santa Barbara, CA 93111; James K Pinkston 3463 State St 1220 Santa Barbara, CA 93105 This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 30, 2026 Filed by: JAMES PINKSTON/ OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 2, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002213. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RUBYLOO: 226 Calle Manzanita Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Rosebrook, LLC (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Feb 4, 2026 Filed by: SUSAN M MINIER/ PRESIDENT with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 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 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002298. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: EAST VALLEY CONSTRUCTION, INDEXMAIN, INDEXMAIN TECHNOLOGIES: 1274 E Valley Road Santa Barbara, CA 93108;

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Jonathan P Allcock Jr (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 7, 2026 Filed by: JONATHAN PRYOR ALLCOCK JR./OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 7, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 73. FBN Number: 2026‑0002014. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MAR OF SANTA BARBARA, MAR COMPANY: 1424 Alameda Padre Serra Santa Barbara, CA 93103; Gregory T Geyer (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 1, 2007 Filed by: GREGORY T GEYER/ OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 1, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002202. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DESIDERIO CONSULTING: 332 Avenida Garza Goleta, CA 93117; Daniel Desiderio (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 8, 2026 Filed by: DANIEL DESIDERIO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 9, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002261. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD: 7783 Jenna Dr. Goleta, CA 93117; Laurie Petrolino (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 24, 2026 Filed by: LAURIE PETROLINO/ OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 3, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002222. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CONSTRUCTIVE: 69 Santa Felicia Dr. Ste 16 Goleta, CA 93117; Power Wave Holdings LLC 2108 N Ste N Sacramento, CA 95816 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Jul 1, 2026 Filed by: JOHN KUBIAK/MANAGING MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 9, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002260. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NAME TAGS PLUS: 315 Meigs Rd, A130 Santa Barbara, CA 93109; Uniquely Personalized, LLC 2108 N St #9078 Ste N Sacramento, CA 95816 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A Filed by: COLLEEN DENNIS/MANAGING MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 1, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of

the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002198. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PIPER LOAN: 1440 Cantera Ave Santa Barbara, CA 93110; Piper L La Rocca (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: PIPER LOAN LA ROCCA with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 4, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002240. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: AFFORDABLE HANDYMAN SERVICES: 6559 Segovia Rd Isla Vista, CA 93117; Xavier R Darquea (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Aug 25, 2026. Filed by: XAVIER DARQUEA/ INDIVIDUAL with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Aug 25, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 81. FBN Number: 2026‑0002145. Published: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DOUDS GAMES: 629 N 6th Street Lompoc, CA 93436; Perl Consulting 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 Sep 11, 2026 Filed by: EMMA RECHER/ CEO with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 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 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002300. Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PILATES & OR: 220 W. Canon Perdido St Ste 1 Santa Barbara, CA 93101; Pilates & OR LLC 1438 Hillcrest Rd Santa Barbara, CA 93103 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 02, 2023 Filed by: OR KAHLON/CO‑OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 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 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002341. Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CTG PUBLICATIONS: 929 Via Fruteria Santa Barbara, CA 93110; Self‑Esteem Seminars, Inc. PO Box 30880 Santa Barbara, CA 93130 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: DONNA BAILEY/FINANCE DIRECTOR with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 10, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002271. Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SANTAFINO WEALTH MANAGEMENT, SANTAFINO ADVISORS, SANTAFINO: 5142 Hollister Avenue, #577 Santa Barbara, CA 93111; Santafino Wealth

Management 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 Sep 3, 2026 Filed by: ANOUSHAVAN BOGHARYAN/MANAGING MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 8, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002246. Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SANTAFINO CPAS, SANTAFINO: 5142 Hollister Avenue, #577 Santa Barbara, CA 93111; Anoushavan Bogharyan (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 3, 2026 Filed by: ANOUSHAVAN BOGHARYAN/ OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 8, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002245. Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: JOH HANDYMAN: 1608 Elm Ave Sovang, CA 93463; Jacob O Hanberg (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 1, 2026 Filed by: JACOB HANBERG/OWNER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 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 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002349. Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GENERAL WORKSHOP PRESS: 1187 Coast Village Road, Suite 1‑151 Santa Barbara, CA 93018; General Workshop LLC 2108 N St Ste N Sacramento, CA 95816 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 16, 2026 Filed by: ALISON VINOLY/MANAGER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 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 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002327. Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0002201 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Paws First Dog Trainin, 6520 El Colegio Rd, Room 2113, Santa Barbara, CA 93106 County of SANTA BARBARA Mackenzie Grace ClRY, 6520 El Colegio Rd Rm 2113, Santa Barbara, CA 93106 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. S/ Mackenzie Clary, This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 09/01/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 9/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15/26 CNS‑4079315# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. FBN2026‑0002265 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: By The Code Electric, 6408 Brown Rd, Guadalupe, CA 93434 County of SANTA BARBARA

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LEGALS (CONT.) ORDINANCE NO. 26-07U AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GOLETA, CALIFORNIA, TEMPORARILY PROHIBITING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF ANY NEW FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION RETAILERS WITHIN THE CITY, FINDING THE ORDINANCE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, AND DECLARING THE URGENCY THEREOF PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN WHEREAS, City and the surrounding South Coast community has been directly impacted by two tragic mass-casualty events involving firearms during the past 20 years: the January 30, 2006 Goleta postal shooting, in which seven victims were killed before the perpetrator died by suicide; and the May 23, 2014 Isla Vista mass-casualty attack, in which six victims were killed and fourteen others were injured before the perpetrator died by suicide; and WHEREAS, according to the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, during calendar year 2025 federal firearms licensees reported 10,383 firearms as stolen or lost nationwide, including 334 firearms in California; nationally, 1,748 firearms were reported stolen in burglaries, 1,338 in larcenies, and 77 in robberies; and WHEREAS, there are currently two (2) firearms and ammunition retailers operating within the City; and WHEREAS, under the City’s existing zoning regulations, firearms and ammunition retailers are processed as a “general retail” use, which does not contain specific standards, permitting requirements, or locational criteria for businesses engaged in the retail sale of firearms and ammunition; and WHEREAS, under the City’s existing zoning regulations, there are no discretionary land-use approvals, public notice, or specific findings associated with City approval of a firearms and ammunition retail use; and WHEREAS, after a review of the City’s zoning and regulatory regulations pertaining to firearms and ammunition retailers, the City Council has determined its existing regulatory framework pertaining to firearms and ammunition sales is insufficient in light of the public safety risks that firearms may pose to the general public, and the City Council unanimously determined that additional regulations pertaining to the retail sales of firearms and ammunition should be developed under the City’s broad police power authority to regulate land use and businesses within the City; and WHEREAS, the placement of firearms and ammunition retail uses within commercial or mixed-use areas may create landuse compatibility concerns, particularly where such uses could be located near schools, childcare facilities and places of worship, and existing City regulations may not adequately consider these potential impacts; and WHEREAS, numerous jurisdictions across California have adopted firearms and ammunition retail-specific zoning and operational standards and regulations; and WHEREAS, in Teixeira v. County of Alameda (2017) 873 F.3d 670, the Ninth Circuit held location-based restrictions applicable to firearms retailers, including separation requirements from specified sensitive uses, may not violate the Second Amendment so long as there is a meaningful access to firearms and ammunition purchases; and WHEREAS, on September 1, 2026, the City Council held a noticed study session, solicited staff input and public comment, and provided direction for City staff to study and develop permanent regulations specifically governing firearms and ammunition retail uses, including but not limited to evaluating appropriate zoning districts, sensitive use buffers and separation standards, use-specific permitting requirements, security and operational standards and related business-license regulations; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that an interim pause on the establishment of new firearms and ammunition retail uses in the City during the study period is necessary to prevent potential uses that conflict with contemplated zoning amendments; and WHEREAS, completion of permanent regulations consistent with City Council’s September 1, 2026 study session direction requires City staff to undertake additional factual research, GIS mapping and spatial analysis, legal review, ordinance drafting, and public noticing and public hearings consistent with the Government Code, and cannot reasonably be completed before additional, new firearms and ammunition retail use could otherwise obtain City approval under the City’s existing Municipal Code provisions; and WHEREAS, the City’s need to balance Second Amendment considerations with the need to perform a detailed, thorough review of potential prospective zoning and operational regulations pertaining to firearms and ammunition retail uses may take significant time; and WHEREAS, on September 1, 2026, the County of Santa Barbara

adopted an interim urgency ordinance temporarily prohibiting new firearms and ammunition retail uses in the unincorporated County, and since the City of Goleta currently lacks firearmsretailer-specific regulations or standards, such action increases the possibility that new retailers could seek the establishment of additional firearms and ammunition retail use before the City can adopt its own, Council-directed permanent regulations; and

may approve or authorize the relocation of an existing, lawful firearms and ammunition retail use in the City, provided that any such relocation does not result in continued, concurrent operation at both the former and relocated locations, and provided such relocation otherwise complies with applicable law and City requirements. This Urgency Ordinance shall be interpreted and applied in a manner consistent with the United States Constitution.

WHEREAS, the City Council finds that this Urgency Ordinance is necessary to prohibit changes in use that may be in conflict with a contemplated general plan, specific plan, or zoning proposal that the City is studying or intends to study within a reasonable time, and to prohibit the introduction of potentially legal nonconforming land uses that could defeat a lateradopted zoning ordinance; and

SECTION 6. Nuisance Declared. A firearms and ammunition retail use established in violation of this Urgency Ordinance is unlawful and constitutes a public nuisance subject to abatement and enforcement under applicable provisions of the Goleta Municipal Code.

WHEREAS, based on the foregoing, the City Council finds that the approval of additional firearms and ammunition retail uses in the City when there is an existing lack of applicable, specific standards, and before the City Council-directed permanent standards can be adopted, results in a current and immediate threat to public health, safety; and WHEREAS, City Council concludes that a temporary moratorium prohibiting the establishment of new firearms and ammunition retail uses is necessary to provide staff sufficient time to research, develop, and present zoning and related permanent firearms and ammunition retail use-specific recommendations that protect the public peace, health, safety, and welfare of residents; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the continued lawful operation of existing firearms and ammunition retail uses within the City preserves meaningful access to the lawful acquisition of firearms and ammunition; and WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of this ordinance have occurred.

SECTION 7. Enforcement. Violations of any provisions of this Urgency Ordinance shall be enforced pursuant to Chapter 12.13 of the Goleta Municipal Code. SECTION 8. Effective Date. This Urgency Ordinance shall take effect and be in full force immediately upon adoption by at least a four-fifths vote of the City Council and shall be in effect for 45 days from the date of adoption unless extended by the City Council pursuant to Government Code section 65858. SECTION 9. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. SECTION 10. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and, within 15 days after its adoption, shall cause it to be published in accord with California Law. INTRODUCED ON the 15th day of September, 2026. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of September, 2026.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GOLETA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. Recitals. The City Council hereby finds that the foregoing recitals are true and correct, incorporated herein by this reference, and the recitals are adopted as findings supporting the City Council’s actions taken hereafter. SECTION 2. Urgency Ordinance Purpose and Authority. The City Council enacts this Urgency Ordinance to temporarily prohibit the establishment of new firearms and ammunition retail uses within the City. Pursuant to its authority granted by Article XI, Section 7, of the California Constitution, as well as section 65858 of the California Government Code, the City finds this Urgency Ordinance is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, safety, and general welfare, and to prohibit the establishment of new firearms and ammunition retail uses that may conflict with contemplated zoning amendments. SECTION 3. General Plan. The City Council hereby finds that the adoption of the Urgency Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan and will further the goals, policies, and implementation programs of the General Plan, including but not limited to LU 3.1, that City’s commercial categories are intended to provide appropriate locations for business uses that serve neighborhoods, the community and the region. SECTION 4. CEQA. The City of Goleta has determined that the adoption of the Urgency Ordinance is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) (California Public Resources Code § 21000, et seq.), pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code Regs.) Section 15301, which categorically exempts activities involving negligible or no expansion of use of existing facilities, and Section 15061(b) (3), which applies where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. This Urgency Ordinance merely temporarily prohibits the establishment of new firearms and ammunition retail uses within the City. This Urgency Ordinance does not directly or indirectly authorize or approve any actual changes to the physical environment. Accordingly, this Urgency Ordinance is exempt from CEQA. SECTION 5. Moratorium. During the term of this Urgency Ordinance and any lawful extension, the establishment of any new firearms and ammunition retail use that would result in a net increase in the number of firearms and ammunition retail uses that currently, lawfully operate within the City is prohibited in all zoning districts. The City shall not permit, authorize, or approve any applications for business licenses, zoning clearances, land use entitlements, or any other City approvals necessary for any activity associated with new firearms and ammunition retail use in the City that results in a net increase in the number of firearms and ammunition retail uses that currently, lawfully operate within the City.

STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA ) ss. CITY OF GOLETA )

I, DEBORAH S. LOPEZ, City Clerk of the City of Goleta, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 26-07U was introduced on September 15th, 2026, and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Goleta, California, held on the 15th of September, 2026, by the following roll-call vote, to wit:

AYES:

MAYOR PEROTTE, MAYOR PRO TEMPORE SMITH, COUNCILMEMBERS KASDIN, KYRIACO, AND REYES-MARTIN

NOES:

NONE

ABSENT

NONE

ABSTENTIONS:

NONE

There are two lawfully operating firearms and ammunition retail uses in the City of Goleta as of the effective date of this Urgency Ordinance. Nothing in this Urgency Ordinance shall impair the continued lawful operation of either existing use. The City

Ordinance No. 26-07U Interim Urgency Ordinance Temporarily Prohibiting the Establishment of New Firearms and Ammunition Retailers Within the City INDEPENDENT.COM INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

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LEGALS (CONT.) Armando Mincitar, 6408 Brown Rd, Guadalupe, CA 93434 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. S/ Armando Mincitar This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on 09/10/2026. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk 9/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15/26 CNS‑4072446# SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: KM WALKER DESIGN, KM WALKER ART & DESIGN: 2963 Valencia Drive Santa Barbara, CA 93105; Kristen Walker (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 1, 2026 Filed by: KRISTEN WALKER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 10, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL) by 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002272. Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SB BABY WEARING: 595 Poppyfield Place Goleta, CA 93117; Sara BW Uhrig (same address) This business is conducted by A Individual Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Sep 13, 2026 Filed by: SARA UHRIG/CEO & FOUNDER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 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 71. FBN Number: 2026‑0002306. Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CENTRAL COAST ARMS, SEMPER FI, TACTICAL, CCFS: 529 South J Street Lompoc, CA 93436; Michael Peter Vasquez (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: MICHAEL PETER VASQUEZ/ OWNER/MANAGING MEMBER with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on Sep 17, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. Joseph E. Holland,

County Clerk (SEAL) by 30. FBN Number: 2026‑0002336. Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026.

NAME CHANGE IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: ANNIE VU CASE NUMBER: 26CV04675 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: PETITIONER: ANNIE VU 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: ANNIE VU PROPOSED NAME: ANNIE VU CURLEY 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 October 2, 2026, 10:00 am, DEPT: 4, SANTA BARBARA SUPERIOR COURT COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa Street., Santa Barbara, CA 93121, 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 August 21, 2026, JUDGE Donna D. Geck of the Superior Court. Published Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 2026. AMENDED IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: ALONSO ADONAY PARTIDA RANGEL CASE NUMBER: 26CV04114 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: PETITIONER: ALONSO ADONAY PARTIDA RANGEL 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: ALONSO ADONAY PARTIDA RANGEL PROPOSED NAME: ALONSO ADONAY ARRIAGA RANGEL 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

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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 November 04, 2026, 10:00 am, DEPT: SB3, 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 September 8, 2026, JUDGE Thomas P. Anderle of the Superior Court. Published Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: RAECHEL MARIE MORA CASE NUMBER: 26CV05467 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: PETITIONER: RAECHEL MARIE MORA 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: RAECHEL MARIE MORA PROPOSED NAME: RAECHEL MARIE BERBERIAN 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 November 2, 2026, 10:00 am, DEPT: 5, SANTA BARBARA SUPERIOR COURT COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa Street., Santa Barbara, CA 93121, 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 September 16, 2026, JUDGE Colleen K. Sterne of the Superior Court. Published Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026. IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: HALEY ANDREA FULLER CASE NUMBER: 26CV05825 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

PETITIONER: HALEY ANDREA FULLER 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: HALEY ANDREA FULLER PROPOSED NAME: HALEY FULLER FREEMAN 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 November 16, 2026, 10:00 am, DEPT: 5, SANTA BARBARA SUPERIOR COURT COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA 1100 Anacapa Street., Santa Barbara, CA 93121, 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 September 16, 2026, JUDGE Colleen K. Sterne of the Superior Court. Published Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF BULK SALE AND OF INTENTION TO TRANSFER ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE (U.C.C. 6101 et seq. and B &P 24074 et seq.) Escrow No. 255236‑CS Notice is hereby given that a bulk sale of assets and a transfer of alcoholic beverage license is about to be made. The names and address of the Seller/ Licensee are: Z N CORPORATION, 826 N. MILPAS ST., SANTA BARBARA, CA 93103 The business is known as: SPEEDY LIQUOR AKA; SPEEDY MART The names and addresses of the Buyer/Transferee are: BEAUMONT LIQUOR & MARKET, INC., 1953 EAST 4 TH STREET, LONG BEACH, CA 90802 The assets to be sold are described in general as: FURNITURE, FIXTURES AND EQUIPMENT and are located at: 826 N. MILPAS ST., SANTA BARBARA, CA 93103 The kind of license to be transferred is: Type: OFF‑ SALE GENERAL LICENSE #21‑375643 now issued for the premises located at: 826 N. MILPAS ST., SANTA BARBARA, CA 93103 The anticipated date of the sale/transfer is OCTOBER

PUBLIC NOTICE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA Section 8 Administrative Plan Revision The Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara is inviting all interested parties to review revisions to the agency’s Section 8 Administrative Plan. Interested parties may download a copy of the draft plans from the Housing Authority’s website: www.hasbarco.org or visit the main offices in Goleta, Lompoc, and Santa Maria to review a paper copy. Written comments may be sent to the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara at P.O. Box 397, Lompoc, CA 93438-0397or by email to publiccomments@ hasbarco.org. The deadline for submitting written comments is November 9, hasbarco.org 2026, 3:00 pm. A public hearing on the draft plan will be held on November 19, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting in-person at 815 West Ocean Avenue, Lompoc, California or online at https://us02web.zoom https://us02web.zoom.us or by calling +1 (669) 900-6833 Meeting ID: 810 6155 6536 Passcode: 854419 In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this public hearing, please contact the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara at (805) 736-3423. Notification at least 24 hours prior to the meeting will enable the Housing Authority to make reasonable arrangements.

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28, 2026 at the office of: R ESCROW CORPORATION, 1205 E. CHAPMAN AVE, ORANGE, CA 92866 The amount of the purchase price or consideration in connection with the transfer of the license and business, including the estimated inventory, is the sum of $ 1,350,000.00 which consists of the following: DESCRIPTION, AMOUNT: CASH THROUGH ESCROW $1,350,000.00 It has been agreed between the Seller/Licensee and the intended Buyer/Transferee, as required by Sec. 24073 of the Business and Professions Code, that the consideration for transfer of the business and license is to be paid only after the transfer has been approved by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. DATED: JULY 29, 2026 BEAUMONT LIQUOR & MARKET, INC., A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION , Buyer/ Transferee Z N CORPORATION , Seller/Licensee ORD‑5434216 SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT 9/24/26

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Legal Notice Attorney or Party Without Attorney: Scott Jordan SBN 88455 303 I Street Los Banos, CA 93635 Telephone: (209) 826‑5024 Fax: (209) 826‑3164 Attorney for: Cassie Gann SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF MERCED 1159G Street Los Banos, CA 93635 Family Law Division CASE NUMBER: 25FL‑01667 Petitioner: Cassie Gann Respondent: Michael Gann NOTICE OF HEARING Respondent Michael Gann that on November 24, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 13 in the Merced County Superior Court, at SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF MERCED at 2260 N Street, Merced, CA 95340 a hearing will be held for OTHER ORDERS REQUESTED: In order to effectuate the Judgment, it is necessary for the court to order the clerk of the court to sign on behalf of Respondent, Michael W. Gann, a Deed similar to the proposed Deed attached on behalf of Respondent transferring the title to 1520 Gulf Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405, to Petitioner. FACTS TO SUPPORT: A Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage was filed in this case on June 8, 2026. Pursuant to the Judgment of Dissolution, the Court ordered that the property located at 1520 Gulf Street, San Luis Obispo, California is awarded to Petitioner, Cassie Gann. The original Summons and Petition were served through an order of publication. The Judgment of Dissolution was sent to the last known mailing address of Respondent. There has been no response from Respondent. I am requesting that the Court order the

Clerk of the Merced County Superior Court to sign a Deed similar to the proposed Deed attached to this Request for Order so that the transfer of the real property from Petitioner and Respondent to Petitioner can be affected. A copy of the current Deed to 1520 Gulf Street, San Luis Obispo, California 93405, is also attached. The original Summons was served by publication. THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons Interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated to show cause, if any, why these petitions should not be granted. Any person objecting to these petitions described above must file a written objection that induces the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is to be heard and at the hearing scheduled to show cause why these petitions should not be granted. If no objection is filed in a timely manner, and no appearance by another party is made, the court may grant the petitions at the hearing. Publication Dates: Sep 17, 24. Oct 1, 8 2026. NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND PENDING ACTION BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT TO: WAIVE THE PUBLIC HEARING ON A COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT THAT MAY BE APPEALED TO THE CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION AND APPROVE, CONDITIONALLY APPROVE, OR DENY THE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT This may affect your property. Please read. Notice is hereby given that an application for the project described below has been submitted to the Santa Barbara County Planning and Development Department. This project requires the approval and issuance of a Coastal Development Permit by the Planning and Development Department. The development requested by this application is subject to appeal to the California Coastal Commission following final action by Santa Barbara County and therefore a public hearing on the application is normally required prior to any action to approve, conditionally approve or deny the application. However, in compliance with California Coastal Act Section 30624.9, the Director has determined that this project qualifies as minor development and therefore intends to waive the public hearing requirement unless a written request for such hearing is submitted by an interested party to the Planning and Development Department within the 15 working days following the Date of Notice listed below. All requests for a hearing must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on the Request for

NOTICIA PÚBLICA AUTORIDAD DE VIVIENDA DEL CONDADO DE SANTA BARBARA Seccion 8 Revision del Plan Administrativo La Autoridad de Vivienda del Condado de Santa Bárbara invita a todas las partes interesadas a revisarlas revisioned del Plan Administrativo de la Seccion 8 de la agencia. Las partes interesadas pueden descargar una copia de los planos preliminares del sitio web de la Autoridad de Vivienda: www.hasbarco.org o visita las oficinas principales de Goleta, Lompoc y Santa María para revisar una copia en papel. Los comentarios por escrito pueden enviarse a la Autoridad de Vivienda del Condado de Santa Bárbara en P.O. Box 397, Lompoc, CA 93438-0397 o por correo electrónico a publiccomments@hasbarco.org publiccomments@hasbarco.org. La fecha límite para enviar comentarios por escrito es el 9 de Noviembre del 2026, a las 3:00 pm. Se llevará a cabo una audiencia pública sobre los proyectos de planes el 19 de Noviembre del 2026 a las 4:30 pm. Los miembros del publico están invitados a asistir a la reunión en persona en 815 W Ocean Avenue, Lompoc, California o a través de Zoom Meeting. Unirse a la reunión de Zoom en https;//us02web.zoom.us https;//us02web.zoom.us, haga clic en Unirse a la reunión, ingrese el ID de la reunión y la contraseña para unirse: ID de la reunión: 810 6155 6536 Contraseña de acceso: 854419 o por teléfono, marque 1 (669) 900-6833 e ingrese el ID de la reunión y la contraseña para unirse a la reunión. De conformidad con la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades, si necesita asistencia especial para participar en esta audiencia pública, comuníquese con la Autoridad de Vivienda del Condado de Santa Bárbara al (805) 736-3423. La notificación al menos 24 horas antes de la reunión permitirá a la Autoridad de Vivienda hacer arreglos razonables.

17 de Septiembre del 2026 SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

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Hearing Expiration Date listed below, to Jordan Incorvaia at Planning and Development, 123 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara 93101 2058, by email at incorvaiaj@countyofsb.org, or by fax at (805) 568 2030. If a public hearing is requested, notice of such a hearing will be provided. WARNING: Failure by a person to request a public hearing may result in the loss of the person’s ability to appeal any action taken by Santa Barbara County on this Coastal Development Permit to the County Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors and ultimately the California Coastal Commission. If a request for public hearing is not received by 5:00 p.m. on the Request for Hearing Expiration Date listed below, then the Planning and Development Department will act to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the request for a Coastal Development Permit. At this time it is not known when this action may occur; however, this may be the only notice you receive for this project. To receive additional information regarding this project, including the date the Coastal Development Permit is approved, and/or to view the application and plans, or to provide comments on the project, please contact Jordan Incorvaia at Planning and Development, 123 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara 93101 2058, or by email at incorvaiaj@countyofsb. org, or by phone at (805) 568 2507. PROPOSAL: SOCAL EDISON ‑RESILIENCY/COVERED CONDUCTOR PROGRAM ‑ COJO PROJECT ADDRESS: 14900 CALLE REAL, GAVIOTA, CA 93117 3rd SUPERVISORIAL DISTRICT THIS PROJECT IS LOCATED IN THE COASTAL ZONE DATE OF NOTICE: 9/24/2026 REQUEST FOR HEARING EXPIRATION DATE: 10/15/2026 PERMIT NUMBER: 25CDH‑00036 APPLICATION FILED: 9/16/2025 ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NO.:081 150 002, 081 150 041 ZONING: RMZ 100 PROJECT AREA: 687.35 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Applicant: Xinling Ouyang Proposed Project: The project proposes to replace 2 wood utility poles with composite poles, install 3 new wood utility interset poles along the existing distribution line, and replace all overhead conductor with insulated wire. No grading is proposed. No trees are proposed for removal. Work will take place at 5 sites on two parcels, one zoned AG II 320 and the other RMZ 100, both located in the Gaviota Coast Plan Area, Third Supervisorial District. APPEALS: The decision of the Director of the Planning and Development Department to approve, conditionally approve, or deny this Coastal Development Permit 25CDH 00036 may be appealed to the County Planning Commission by the applicant or an aggrieved person. The appeal must be filed within the 10 calendar days following the date that the Director takes action on this Coastal Development Permit. To qualify as an “aggrieved person” the appellant must have, in person or through a representative, informed the Planning and Development Department by appropriate means prior to the decision on the Coastal Development Permit of the nature of their concerns, or, for good cause, was unable to do so. Appeals must be filed with the Planning and Development Department online at https://aca prod.accela.com/sbco/Default.aspx, by 5:00 p.m. within the timeframe identified above. In the event that the last day for filing an appeal falls on a non business day of the County, the appeal may be timely filed on the next business day. This Coastal Development Permit may be appealed to the California

INDEPENDENT CLASSIFIEDS

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LEGALS (CONT.) Coastal Commission after an appellant has exhausted all local appeals, therefore a fee is not required to file an appeal. For additional information regarding the appeal process, contact Jordan Incorvaia. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Information about this project review process may also be viewed at: https://www.countyofsb.org/1082/ Permitting Home Board of Architectural Review agendas may be viewed online at: https://www.countyofsb.org/1707/ Boards of Architectural Review

SUMMONS 2ND AMENDED 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 09/21/2026 9:00 AM By: Nikki Punsaian, 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: 26CV00331 Case Name: Rodriguez v. Smith The people in 1 and 2 must attend court: 09/21/2026 9:00 am SB 3 , Angela Braun Date: 4/13/2026 Clerk, by Is/ Nikki Punsaian, 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 www.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 buSihesses. 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: Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 2026. SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) NOTICE TO DEFENDANT:

(AVISO AL DEMANDADO): CITY OF SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA, a political subdivision, CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA BARBARA, REBECCA BJORK, BJORK, in her official capacity as City Administrator (“Additional Parties Attachment form is attached”) YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): Joann Olejnik, a Natural Person 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): 26CV00231 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): James F. Scafide, Figueroa Law Group, 7 W. Victoria Street, Unit 202, Santa Barbara, California 93101 (805) 651‑3021 APN: 039‑610‑018 DATE Fecha): 01/06/2026. Clerk, by (Secretario) /s/ Sarah Sisto, Deputy (Adjunto) Published: Sep 24. Oct 1, 8, 15 2026.

TRUSTEE NOTICE NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Trustee Sale No. : 00000010771251 Title Order No.: 260161649 FHA/VA/PMI No.: ATTENTION RECORDER: THE FOLLOWING REFERENCE TO AN ATTACHED SUMMARY APPLIES ONLY TO COPIES PROVIDED TO THE TRUSTOR, NOT TO THIS RECORDED ORIGINAL NOTICE. NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 04/24/2015. 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. BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TREDER AND WEISS, LLP, as duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 05/01/2015 as Instrument No. 2015‑ 0022233 of official records in the office of the County Recorder of SANTA BARBARA County, State of CALIFORNIA. EXECUTED BY: THOMAS A. CLARK AND CHRISTIAN P. MALOSKI‑CLARK, HUSBAND AND WIFE, AS JOINT TENANTS,WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK/CASH EQUIVALENT or other form of payment authorized by California Civil Code 2924h(b), (payable at time of sale in lawful money of

the United States). DATE OF SALE: 09/23/2026 TIME OF SALE: 1:00 PM PLACE OF SALE: AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 1100 ANACAPA STREET, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101. STREET ADDRESS and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 629 SAN YSIDRO ROAD, SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA 93108 APN#: 011‑140‑018 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is $403,471.47. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be

aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 833‑ 561‑0243 for information regarding the trustee’s sale or visit this Internet Web site WWW.SALES.BDFGROUP.C OM for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case 00000010771251. 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: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,”

you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder” you may beable 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 833‑ 561‑0243, or visit this internet websiteWWW.SALES.BDFGROUP.C OM using the file number assigned to this case 00000010771251 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. FOR TRUSTEE SALE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: 833‑561‑0243 WWW.SALES.BDFGROUP.C OM BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TREDER AND WEISS, LLP IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TREDER AND WEISS, LLP as Trustee 3990 E. Concours Street, Suite 350 Ontario, CA 91764 (866) 795‑1852 CA Debt Collection License No. 11709‑99 Dated: 08/18/2026 A‑4884200 09/03/2026, 09/10/2026, 09/17/2026

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA

ANUNCIO DE SERVICIO PÚBLICO

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

Apertura de Lista de Espera Asequible

Affordable Waiting List Opening

POR LO PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que a partir del 8 de Noviembre de 2026 a las 7:30 a.m. La Autoridad de Vivienda del Condado de Santa Bárbara abrirá las listas de espera para los siguientes desarrollos que se indican a continuación, hasta nuevo aviso. Las solicitudes se aceptarán en línea en www.hasbarco.org yendo a ¿Cómo lo hago?, luego Solicitar en línea - Portal del Solicitante, RENTCafe Online Portal. Estas unidades serán subsidiadas con asistencia basada en proyectos, por lo tanto, se requerirá la elegibilidad de ingresos y las regulaciones de la Sección 8 para todos los solicitantes.

NOTIFICATION IS HEREBY GIVEN that EFFECTIVE November 8, 2026 at 7:30 a.m. The Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara will be OPENING the waiting lists for the below developments until further notice. Applications will be accepted online at www.hasbarco.org by going to How Do I?, then Apply Online – Applicant Portal, and click on RENTCafe Online Portals. These units will be subsidized with Project Based assistance; therefore Section 8 income eligibility and regulations will be required for all applicants. Aparicio La Canada Central Plaza College Park Miller Stanley Golden Inn Family Positano Homebase on G Valley Station Vintage Walk West Cox Tenth Street Escalante Meadows Polo Village Patterson Point If you are a person living with a disability, or Limited English Proficiency (LEP), or with limited computer access, call 833-433-0333 for additional assistance. This Public Service Announcement is being published to ensure that interested individuals and groups are fully aware of this action. The Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara will accept applications for these programs regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, age, familial status, or other protected groups under State, Federal or local equal opportunity housing laws.

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA

Aparicio La Canada Central Plaza College Park Miller Stanley Golden Inn Family Positano Homebase on G Valley Station Vintage Walk West Cox Tenth Street Escalante Meadows Polo Village Este anuncio de servicio público se publica para garantizar que las personas y grupos interesados sean plenamente conscientes de esta acción. La Autoridad de Vivienda del Condado de Santa Bárbara aceptará solicitudes para estos programas independientemente de su raza, color, religión, origen nacional, sexo, estado civil, discapacidad, edad, estado familiar u otros grupos protegidos bajo las leyes estatales, federales o locales de igualdad de oportunidades de vivienda.

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT.COM INDEPENDENT.COM SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THE INDEPENDENT

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