Issuu

JOURNAL

Incoming Students Westmont’s record-breaking local enrollment and historic firsts, page 39 27 AUG – 3 SEP 2026 | VOL 32 ISS 35 www.montecitojournal.net

Voice of theV illage

SERVING MONTECITO AND SOUTHERN SANTA BARBARA

House Warming – Temperatures are flirting with triple digits and Montecito homes keep selling. Apparently nobody told the real estate market about Fogust. P.16

Mom, Interrupted – The kid is happy, college is exciting, and Mom is crying while buying eggs. Deann Zampelli discovers the complicated grief of the emptying nest. P.26

Shrine On – Come for the temples, stay for the soba. Leslie Westbrook wanders beyond Kyoto’s tourist trail and finds plenty worth worshipping. P.30

Remembering Pedro

! 0 5

WITH FEELING

Friendship Center turns 50 with a family reunion, its first dementia care conference, and five decades of proving there is always a celebration in the wings (Story on P.5)

For decades, guests around Montecito asked the same question: “Is Pedro working today?” Now the community remembers the man everyone looked forward to seeing, page 14

Flapper’s Delight

Bobbed hair, bare gams, jazz, cigarettes, and cocktails. The flappers arrived in Santa Barbara and respectable society reached immediately for the smelling salts, page 18

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27 August – 3 September 2026

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27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

#4 Did you know…

As recently as 1978, the Miramar Hotel property line extended into the ocean, allowing legendary hotel lifeguard Jacques Renon to legally remove non-guests from hotel property should they want to access the beach towards Fernald Point. The property line was only pulled back to mean high tide as a condition for receiving permits to create the now defunct Miramar Beach and Tennis Club.

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Real Estate – Montecito home sales stay hot, Pup Culture – A puppy is digging up paradise 16 35 even as rising inventory and price reductions and a neighborhood dog won’t stop barking. INSIDE THIS ISSUE suggest the market may be starting to level off Amy Peer offers practical fixes for two common olden Friendship – Fifty years after its founding, The Way It Was – The Roaring Twenties revolt 5 GFriendship Center looks forward and back, launching 18 of the flappers, when bobbed hair, short skirts, a dementia care conference while welcoming generations of families home for a reunion

jazz, cigarettes, and cocktails had respectable SB clutching its pearls

Message from MA – Preparing the creeks, eings & Doings – “Community” gets tossed 6 protecting 20 Baround homes, navigating construction, and a lot and the word is made bland by cleaning up Montecito fill the agenda in the latest report to residents

Montecito Moments – Atlantis rises at the 8 Santa Barbara Zoo, polo goes to overtime at the

Pacific Coast Open, and players trade mallets for mulligans at a spirited charity golf tournament.

Letters to the Editor – Thoughts on Sneddon as 10 mayor, compromise in Santa Barbara, Carlos the Bear, and other missives

ews Bytes – Good Samaritan tackles food 12 Ninsecurity, Krystle Hickman goes buzzing with

uarter-Century Concrete – AJ Precision Q Concrete celebrates 25 years, growing from a two-person crew into an established company with more than 20 employees

40 Sheriff ’s Blotter Calendar of Events – Rock n’ Roll archaeology, 44 land/soil/detention enter UCSB’s AD&A

a child to college, from tearful goodbyes to finding a new role as a parent

decades in local hospitality left countless guests, coworkers, and friends asking, “Is Pedro working today?”

Montecito JOURNAL

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” – Walt Disney

Tribute to Pedro – Montecito remembers Pedro 14 Rivera, a familiar and beloved presence whose

and the Pacific Coast Open reaches its finale Robert’s Big Questions – Can artificial intelligence ever truly experience the world, or is consciousness something machines can only imitate?

Your Westmont – New students arrive for the 39 start of classes, nursing expands to include

Montecito Health Coach – Deann Zampelli 26 navigates the emotional adjustment of sending

The Sporting Life – Football, polo, and roller 38 derby share the field as Griffin Arnold returns

overuse. An ecstatic wedding in the woods of Oregon demonstrates a community’s embrace in all its glory. The baby is a man.

ravel Buzz – Kyoto beyond the temples T reveals neighborhood restaurants, coffee shops, river walks, crafts, and everyday discoveries beyond the tourist trail On Entertainment – John Romano brings King of the Wild Frontier to the New Vic, Diana Ross takes the Bowl, Romeo and Juliet heads outdoors, and Roger Daltrey rocks the Lobero

native bees, Coastal Cleanup Day, plus other tidbits

canine headaches.

graduate programs, and a near total lunar eclipse

Museum, Basil Kincaid visits the SBMA, Jerry Herman walks into your life, and other happenings

Classifieds – Our own “Craigslist” of classified 46 ads, in which sellers offer everything from summer rentals to estate sales

ini Meta Crossword Puzzles 47 MLocal Business Directory – Smart business

owners place business cards here so readers know where to look when they need what those businesses offer

27 August – 3 September 2026

Golden Friendship

Fifty Years of Friendship Center by Zach Rosen

riendship Center has never needed much of an excuse for a party. There is Senior Prom, the Fourth of July celebration and, most recently, a full Fiesta week of music, dancing, art and performances. Then there was this summer’s Polo Soirée, where nearly 100 guests helped the organization surpass its $75,000 fundraising goal. So when it came time to mark Friendship Center’s 50th anniversary, simply throwing another party would have been almost too easy. Instead, the organization decided to celebrate by doing what it has done since 1976. Bring people together, give families somewhere to turn and make life with dementia a little less isolating. “We are an organization that celebrates everything. We’re always celebrating,” says Executive Director Kathryn Westland. Yet she saw the anniversary as an opportunity to create something that would last beyond the milestone itself. That thinking will culminate September 26 and 27 with a weekend that looks both forward and back. Friendship Center will hold its first Dementia Care Conference

on Saturday at The Leta Hotel, followed Sunday by a Family Reunion and Picnic at the Carousel House in Chase Palm Park. The conference is particularly important to Westland. Education has repeatedly surfaced in caregiver and community surveys as something families want and need. Not simply information about dementia, but practical knowledge that reflects the realities of caring for someone day after day. Westland knows that distinction personally. She has been a family caregiver and a professional one. Before becoming executive director, she spent four years doing direct care as Friendship Center’s program manager. Her graduate work in public health focused specifically on dementia care, and she spent 13 years living with her grandfather, who had vascular dementia. There is plenty of information available about why certain behaviors occur or how a disease progresses. The harder question comes at 2 am when a loved one has fallen, weighs 50 pounds more than you and needs to get back up. “What do I actually do?” Westland asks. “That doesn’t help me at 2 am. That doesn’t help me when I’m trying to get through a day of work.” Friendship Center’s conference is intended to help close that gap. Speakers

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27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

Message from MA

Your Various Village Verities by Houghton Hyatt

very week, the Montecito Association gathers information from local agencies, elected officials, community partners, and residents to help our members understand what is happening throughout Montecito. From public safety and emergency preparedness to traffic, land use, and neighborhood concerns, our goal is to keep the community informed, connected, and engaged. We look forward to sharing some of the issues we are following, the conversations taking place, and the many ways neighbors and community organizations are working together to protect, preserve and connect Montecito.

Preparing for Winter Along the Creeks Residents along the San Leandro Creek corridor have raised concerns about sediment buildup, obstructed underpasses, eroding creek banks and the capacity of infrastructure to withstand a major storm. Particular attention has been directed toward the Highway 101 underpass and the San Leandro Lane bridge, which carries important utility lines. With the possibility of a wet winter ahead, residents want to ensure that responsible agencies understand the conditions on the ground and are taking appropriate steps to address potential vulnerabilities. A community meeting is planned for September 14 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Montecito Union School. Representatives from the agencies responsible for creek maintenance and infrastructure, as well as the offices of state and federal elected officials, will be invited. The Montecito Association will continue helping residents connect with the appropriate agencies, elevating community concerns and sharing meeting information as it becomes available.

Montecito JOURNAL

Understanding California’s New Zone 0 Standards Wildfire preparedness remains one of the most important issues facing our community. The California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection recently approved the final draft of new Zone 0 defensible space standards addressing the first five feet surrounding homes and other structures. The standards are intended to reduce the likelihood that wind-blown embers will ignite a home. The latest version also provides more landscaping flexibility than earlier proposals. Under certain conditions, well-maintained flowers, small non-woody plants, low-growing ground cover, lawns and movable potted plants in noncombustible containers may be permitted outside the required vegetation-free buffers. Properly maintained trees may also remain, provided dead wood and ladder fuels are removed, lower limbs are trimmed, and branches are kept away from chimneys, roofs and eaves. The regulations are expected to be introduced through a phased implementation process. As additional guidance becomes available, residents will need clear, practical information about how the standards apply to existing homes and landscapes.

Traffic and Construction: Your Experiences Matter Highway 101 construction continues to affect traffic patterns throughout Montecito. Residents have contacted the Association about congestion, detours,

MA Meeting Page 374 374

27 August – 3 September 2026

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27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

Montecito Moments

Mermaids making waves - Mark Maupin, Shauna Quill, and Janet Garufis celebrate with board member Whitney Duncan, Tyler Duncan and guest. (Courtesy Photo)

Atlantis Aglow by Lisa Duncan

“W

e are so lucky to have an incredible world-class zoo right here in our little community,” said Janet Garufis, president and CEO of Montecito Bank & Trust. “The benefits are generational. Children who grew up coming to this zoo are now bringing their own children here. It crosses generations – children, parents, grandparents.” Those generations came ready to make waves at the Santa Barbara Zoo’s Zoofari Ball: Atlantis Rising, where mermaids, sea queens, Grecian goddesses, kings of the deep and a particularly wild school of scarlet lobsters took over the grounds. Sea-glass gowns shimmered beneath the lights, while chandeliers, candlelight, and electric-blue illumination turned the lawn into a lost kingdom after dark. “I love the people here. I love the sense of community,” said longtime Zoo board member and philanthropist Ginni Dreier. “It’s just so precious – and the kids love it.” Ginni’s love affair with the Zoo began in 2001, when she sponsored its male

Claws for Celebration Lobsters on the Loose at the Atlantis Ball (Courtesy Photo) Having a Zooper time - Platinum Sponsor Ginni Dreier, with Zoo President and CEO Charles Hopper. (Courtesy Photo)

African lion, Chadwick, naming him for her husband, Chad Dreier. The Dreier family, a Platinum Sponsor of the boffo Ball, has since supported every major Zoo capital campaign and helped sponsor some of its most iconic animals. “When I picked my granddaughter up from Zoo Camp, the first thing she said was, ‘Best day ever!’” said the

review, the verdict was already in: best night ever.

Zoo’s new President and CEO, Charles Hopper, who attended with his wife, Aisha Hopper. “That showed me how much kids just love being here. It’s a wonderful place for the kids, including my own grandkids!” By nightfall, Atlantis was awash in revelry – mermaids, kings, lobsters and all. And judging by the next generation’s

Overtime at the Open “My favorite part of the game is always the beginning,” said Sy Zahedi.

Moments Page 344 344

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27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

Socialism Oversimplification

effrey Harding’s column on socialism lacks nuance and greatly oversimplifies what socialism can mean. Below is AI’s answer to the question, “Have there been successful experiments in socialism?” Jeffrey doubts that there are any progressives with “a well-rounded knowledge of history, economics, and philosophy,” a statement that might have surprised Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus. https://tinyurl.com/MJ-Letters-Socialism-AI

Arthur Hoyle, Santa Barbara

Why I Cannot Support Sneddon for Mayor Mayor-candidate Kristin Sneddon is concerned about the cost of living in Santa Barbara, especially housing. But she is not alone and this is not new. Everyone is concerned about working families being squeezed out of our expensive city. But her caring is different from governing wisely. Experts and studies advise against rent control (aka, Rent Stabilization) and voters have repeatedly rejected it. But Sneddon did not want us to vote. She, among four City Council members, already decided for us earlier this April to set up “permanent rules.” Soon the Council will be exposed to lawsuits for violating constitutional property rights at taxpayer’s expense. Sneddon sees no problem having others pay the costs of her decisions. In this and other instances she ignores taxpayer costs. She backed millions of dollars for redundant State Street planning consultants; most recently another $92,773. Leadership involves good decision making, tight budgets, and healthy reserves. When Sneddon was told the city budget reserves were gone at the June council

meeting, she expressed complete surprise. The money is gone and the very person responsible for spending it was surprised. Sneddon lacks sound judgment and is not concerned with spending the money that WE pay through increasing fees for parking, permits, processing fees on top of the taxes on sales, utilities, occupancy, and business. We the people who fund things deserve to know our money is being spent responsibly, and that the outcomes are achieved and justify the cost. For eight years, Sneddon has failed. J.W. Burk

Supplying Our Teachers Three cheers Zach Rosen for your beautifully composed paean to the good people addressing teachers’ needs. It’s a reflection of the sad state of our society that places so little value on children and their education. When I started teaching elementary school with Los Angeles Unified in the ‘60s, there was rarely a shortage of supplies. From tempera to multi-hued tissue paper to wood-carving tools, the supplies were there. It was unthinkable that a teacher should have to supply pencils and paper. Then came Prop. 13 which eliminated all but the most essential things from teachers’ and children’s needs. Within a very few years, all the art materials and even chalkboard erasers disappeared from the supply rooms! Worst yet, they eliminated shop classes at the high school level which guaranteed a greater drop-out rate! Imagine the kids who loved auto shop and came away with a trade. No more. Thank you Montecito Journal for celebrating how parents have stepped up to fill such voids in Santa Barbara, but

feared and hunted. In time, we no longer shared the land equally. Housing development encroached on our normal free range. Unfortunately, we became not only feared but misunderstood. We ask you to educate yourself about our behaviors. Please learn about our habits. We don’t aim to hurt you. You are not prey… too salty! Protect your chickens, pets, and children with properly constructed enclosures. Keep trash secured with sturdy bear-proof trash cans. Keep a safe distance and don’t run, because our instinct is to chase. Enjoy our presence and let us enjoy yours. We can coexist with you if given space to do so! -Carlos The Bear, Translated by Michael Edwards

there are endless school districts that have neither the finances, the parents, nor people like Renee Grubb to take up the reins for their communities. It’s about much more than the three R’s or even STEM. It’s about the materials, the tools for that science experiment that inspires some girl to become a medical researcher or a surgeon. Indeed, “Big ideas often begin with very small supplies.” Josie Levy Martin, author of Never Tell Your Name

Carlos Sez Carlos had been away enjoying the plentiful water and food available in the backcountry when Summer’s heat suggested strongly that he go back to his den in Montecito’s front country. He knew being back in the bubble of The ‘Cito meant trash cans, chickens, and swimming pools. Other bears knew the ritual well, too. Same bears, same appetite but more humans than ever were becoming a problem for both bears and mountain lions. Connie Cougar had to feed her young and drink water to stay alive, and the bears did as well. So, when Carlos finished cleaning his den he sat back in his lazy boy and with twitching ears, began reviewing the app Next Door and Montecito Journal along with other local publications. He wasn’t surprised when reading of bear and cat sightings. What troubled him was the proximity of them to humans and the number of encounters. One cat had even made it to downtown Santa Barbara, having followed Mission Creek, only to be killed by a fast-moving car on the 101. This prompted Carlos to send a Public Service Announcement (PSA) to the MJ. Carlos Sez:

Santa Barbara Has Forgotten How to Compromise Walk into a Santa Barbara City Council meeting these days and you may find the same scene: a packed chamber, hours of public comment, a narrow vote,

Letters Page 404 404 JOURNAL

Letters to the Editor

Executive Editor/CEO | Gwyn Lurie gwyn@montecitojournal.net President/COO | Timothy Lennon Buckley tim@montecitojournal.net Managing Editor | Zach Rosen zach@montecitojournal.net MoJo Contributing Editor | Christopher Matteo Connor Art/Production Director | Trent Watanabe Graphic Design/Layout | Stevie Acuña Administrative Assistant | Jessica Shafran VP, Sales & Marketing | Leanne Wood leanne@montecitojournal.net Account Managers | Sue Brooks, Tanis Nelson, Elizabeth Scott, Joe DeMello, Thomas Mock

“We are the animals of the front country. Our heritage goes back many centuries. We were here long before human population was an issue. The Chumash knew us and coexisted with us. Then came “progress.” We became

Features | Jeff Wing Proofreading | Helen Buckley Contributors | Scott Craig, Chuck Graham, Mark Ashton Hunt, Dalina Michaels, Robert Bernstein, Christina Atchison, Leslie Zemeckis, Sigrid Toye, Elizabeth Stewart, Leana Orsua, Jeffrey Harding, Houghton Hyatt

Montecito Tide Guide Day

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10 Montecito JOURNAL

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4.4 03:40 PM 1.8 09:46 PM 5.8 4.6 04:18 PM 1.6 10:22 PM 5.6 4.9 04:59 PM 1.4 11:01 PM 5.2 5.1 05:44 PM 1.2 11:44 PM 4.7 5.4 06:37 PM 1.1 4.1 6:09 AM 1.6 12:43 PM 5.5 07:40 PM 1.0 3.4 6:35 AM 2.1 01:27 PM 5.5 09:03 PM 1.0 3.0 7:04 AM 2.6 02:26 PM 5.5 10:41 PM 0.7 5.5

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” – Benjamin Franklin

newspaper

Published by: Montecito Journal Media Group, LLC Montecito Journal is compiled, compounded, calibrated, cogitated over, and coughed up every Wednesday by an exacting agglomeration of excitable (and often exemplary) expert edifiers at 1206 Coast Village Circle, Suite G, Montecito, CA 93108. How to reach us: (805) 565-1860; FAX: (805) 969-6654; Montecito Journal, 1206 Coast Village Circle, Suite G, Montecito, CA 93108; EMAIL: tim@montecitojournal.net

27 August – 3 September 2026

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27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

News Bytes

Good Samaritan Shelter’s Benefit Event by MJ Staff

ood Samaritan Shelter joins with philanthropic partners and public officials to launch the Santa Barbara Salon Series, four public-policy panels to highlight critical issues facing our county, including homelessness, food insecurity, mental health, and human and labor trafficking. The Salon Series will include the participation of Santa Barbara County District Attorney John Savrnoch and County Supervisor Laura Capps. The series’ first event, Curing Food Insecurities, will take place on August 27, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Speakers include Good Samaritan Shelter CEO Sylvia Barnard, Foodbank of Santa Barbara CEO Erik Talkin, and Veggie Rescue ED Eryn Shugart. Entrepreneur and investor Brian Coryat will serve as moderator. All events of the Salon Series will take place at a private home in Montecito; the address of which will be provided upon RSVP. There is no charge for the salons, although the participation of sponsors and underwriters would be most welcome.

411: www.goodsamaritanshelter.org https://tinyurl.com/GoodSamaritan-Tickets-Aug27

Los Padres National Forest Updates

A LEGACY OF PROTECTION

A-Zone South general deer season is impacted by the Timber Fire, as a large portion of the northern Los Padres is included within the closures. This could push some additional hunters into the Central and Southern Los Padres. Be careful out there everyone, good luck and remember our current fire restrictions. A-Zone lasts through September 20. Highway 33 will be closed to thru-traffic the weekend of August 28 to August 31 for road repairs. The hard closure will be at the tunnels downstream from Wheeler Gorge. Highway 33 will remain open (but not to thru-traffic) from the Cuyama side in case folks want to access Rose Valley, upper Sespe or the Pine Mountain areas. New ranger office hours in effect across the board. Santa Barbara District (3505 Paradise Road), open Monday through Friday from 10 am to noon, and 1 pm to 3 pm. Check website for SB County and Ventura County Ranger Station updates.

411: https://lpforest.org

Tools for School Helps Local Students Shine More than 200 local junior high and high school students received solar-powered reading lights and phone chargers through a renewed partnership between Unite to Light, the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara, and Deckers Brands. The resources were distributed through the Housing Authority’s annual Tools for School program and its college readiness program, PBC. Unite to Light provided 200 Luke Lights and 20 solar power banks, helping students study in shared or dimly lit spaces and stay connected as they prepare for school, college, and work. Tools for School also provided hundreds of K–12 students with backpacks, school supplies, and connections to community organizations supporting local youth and families.

Santa Barbara Fifth Grader Launches Orca Podcast

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Ten-year-old Santa Barbara fifth grader Malia Westheimer is making her audio debut as Kiko, a curious young orca in SuperPod, a new six-episode children’s podcast launching September 1. Malia co-created the series with her father, Santa Barbara composer, and filmmaker Cody Westheimer, inspired partly by the family’s real-life encounters with wild orcas. Designed for children ages 2–8, SuperPod combines ocean adventures, original music, and immersive sound with stories exploring courage, friendship, empathy, belonging, and confidence. The project also includes a free activity book, parent and teacher guides, soundtrack, and sleep story. Episodes will be available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and other major platforms.

Bees with Krystle Hickman Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History will present National Geographic Explorer Krystle Hickman on bees and photography on Wednesday, September 9, from 6-7 pm.

“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi

News Bytes Page 414 414

27 August – 3 September 2026

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• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

Tribute to Pedro

Pedro Rivera: A Life of Love by Joanne A Calitri

o pay proper tribute to Pedro Rivera, who at age 67 unexpectedly passed away on August 2, the Montecito Journal is starting a two-part tribute to him this week. Rivera was a beloved and well-known family man, friend, and co-worker. Sentiments expressed about Pedro on social media portray a man who built and presented a life of love and respect with everyone he met and worked with. Many recall with fondness his guidance, humor, and genuineness. He is survived by his 92-year-old mother, son Diego and granddaughter Isabella. The public Celebration of Pedro is September 6, at the Santa Barbara Polo Club. For part one of the Montecito Journal’s “Tribute to Pedro,” I reached out to Rivera’s family, his former and current employers, and local friends. Pedro’s employment history includes the Four Seasons Santa Barbara Biltmore, followed by the San Ysidro Ranch, the Santa Barbara Polo Club, and most recently, Teddy’s by the Sea Restaurant in Carpinteria. At Teddy’s, the owners put up a GoFundMe campaign to help the family fund the funeral and other expenses. Jordan Sweeney, the GM and COO at Birnam Wood Golf Club shared with me on the phone that he forwarded that link to the Birnam Wood club members, who in turn contributed generously, raising over $10,000 in two days, with more funds coming in.

Here is son Diego Rivera on behalf of Pedro’s family:

n loving memory of Pedro Rivera – a man whose presence, spirit, and kindness left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew him. As his son, I, Diego Rivera, miss him with every part of my heart. My daughter, Isabella Rivera, remembers him with sweetness and light, carrying memories of her grandfather with the pure innocence only a child can hold. And my mother, Teresa, who shared an important chapter of life with him, speaks of him with deep respect, gratitude, and affection for the man he was and the years they lived side by side. Pedro was a man defined by the things he loved: his Sundays, his polo, and his people. Sundays were his sacred pause – a day he embraced with joy, reflection, and the comfort of family. Polo was more than a sport to him; it was a passion, a rhythm, a place where he felt alive and connected. And his people – his family, his friends, his community – were the heart of his world. He gave generously, listened sincerely, and carried himself with a steady spirit that made others feel grounded in his presence. He touched this community with his humor, his warmth, and his unwavering loyalty. Pedro had a way of making everyone feel seen, valued, and welcomed. Whether through a simple conversation, a shared laugh, or a quiet moment of support, he left behind a legacy of kindness that will continue to echo through the lives he touched. Today, we stand united as a family – myself, Diego Rivera, my daughter Isabela Rivera, and my mother Teresa – to honor the remarkable man he was. We celebrate his life, his passions, and the love he poured into this world. His impact is woven into our hearts and into the community he cared for so deeply. Pedro Rivera will forever be remembered as a great man – loved beyond measure, admired widely, and missed profoundly.

Pedro Page 284 284

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14 Montecito JOURNAL

27 August – 3 September 2026

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27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

Real Estate

Sizzling Summer… Home Sales and Temperatures, That Is by Mark Ashton Hunt

t seems like only yesterday we were kicking off summer with Memorial Day, the Santa Barbara Summer Solstice parade weekend, the Rosewood Miramar re-anchoring its floating offshore platform out for all to enjoy… and then the 4th of July came and went and boom, all of a sudden we are looking at Labor Day. Where did the time go? Between your travels, beach days, recently prepping the kids for school or simply celebrating a lovely streak of good weather in the area, it’s been a stellar season, closing out with extreme temps and no sign of Fogust in sight. As you read this it might actually be 100 degrees in Santa Barbara according to the 8/22 forecast for the coming week. Regardless of seasons, the Montecito Real Estate market is in an interesting place right now. With steady home sales in all price ranges over the past months (over 20

GOTMONTECITO.COM WWW.MONTECITOBESTBUYS.COM Please contact me directly

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properties in escrow right now when 15 might be more common in the past year or so), and recent home closings showing a variety of buyer preferences in all price ranges, we are seeing no significant slowdown in our area sales. The past six weeks or so saw 22 homes sell in the 93108 in the Multiple Listing Service with four sales over $10M and 5 sales in that prime $7M range as examples. All that said, there are some price “softenings” and indicators that we might have reached the top of the market. For instance, many homes are reducing in price and more inventory is hitting the market. Some homes that sold a year or two ago are on the market again and now at similar or lower prices than those fetched not that long ago. Is this a leveling off of the market or Seller expectations being undermined by a more balanced Buyer demand?... Or is it just the rollercoaster of mostly up and up that shapes our market when, month over month, we are surprised by new transactions that often defy the news about the Real Estate market in other areas, cities, or states? From Coast Village Road and beach area condos in the $1.8 to $6+ million range, to starter homes, cottages, and “upgradeable homes” in the $2.5 to $6 million range and our high-end estates starting over $10,000,000, the diversity of remaining offerings is vast. To help with that statistic and at the same time provide more options for buyers, we have seen the largest single month uptick of available inventory we have seen in over a year. The number of properties on the market on this date (Aug. 22), has increased approximately 15% since early July of this year, notwithstanding the solid number of homes in escrow, or number of closed escrows in this same time frame. This statistic shows that some homes are still waiting to sell, and more sellers are putting their homes on the market, outpacing a strong sales market. This is what makes me wonder what is next. One thing is for sure, there is no shortage of reasons to own a home in Montecito. The schools, the lifestyle, the climate, the community, etc. Unbeatable. If you are still looking for a home in the area. Here are four listings worth considering. If you are not working with a Real Estate agent and would like me to arrange a showing for you, or if you would like information on other properties currently on the market in Montecito, or a price opinion on your current home, please reach out to me directly.

STREET

Real Estate Page 244 244

THE

WAT E R F R O N T

3rd-floor suite with panoramic ocean views Fully furnished 2,500 sq. ft. suite featuring two bedrooms, two baths, a kitchen, a living room and a two-car garage $30,000 - $50,000/month Available for extended-stay guests of 30+ days | 2nd-floor guest rooms and office space also available for rent Contact Edward Galsterer 805-403-5614 | egalsterer@santabarbarainn.com Professionally managed by Santa Barbara Inn

16 Montecito JOURNAL

27 August – 3 September 2026

9040 W Sunset Blvd Penthouse B | Offered at $16,995,000 9040 W Sunset Blvd Unit 907 | Offered at $6,600,000

THIS is why you move to Montecito. A Montecito Original offering over 8,600 square feet of elevated living space with sweeping ocean, island and mountain views from one of Montecito’s most coveted settings. 358 Woodley Road | Santa Barbara Now Offered at $15,500,000 | 7 Bed | 10 Bath | 8,600 Sq Ft | 1.02 Acres

Contact our Team for a Private Appointment. Tracy Tutor 310.464.2321 | info@tracytutor.com DRE 01326769

Thea Sheinberg 310.866.1957 | thea.sheinberg@compass.com DRE 02245684

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number [license number to be inserted by region]. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and footage are approximate. License Number 01991628, 01527235, 1527365. 150 EL CAMINO DRIVE, BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90212. 310.595.3888 © 2021 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE.square ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

The Way It Was

The Revolt of the Flappers Redux by Hattie Beresford

he 1920s saw the result of worldwide revolutions, not the least of which, according to Frederick Lewis Allen in Only Yesterday, was a revolution in manners and morals. Women, who up until then were considered the guardians of morality, were getting their sexual hangups psychoanalyzed, bobbing their hair, revealing their gams, and wearing rouge. The waltz and minuet were replaced by the Charleston and the “indecent” fox trot, and the violin by the “barbaric” saxophone. Worse still, girls were smoking cigarettes, frequenting juice joints and necking with drugstore cowboys. The “problem of the younger generation” was discussed by the schools, churches, and news editors while parents lay awake at night worrying about their wayward children. Santa Barbara and Montecito were not immune to these controversies. Periodically the Morning Press printed “informative” articles aimed at those deviating from conventional standards.

In the early 1920s, women burned their S-Corsets and fox trotted to jazz orchestras at nightclubs and speakeasies (courtesy of Library of Congress)

The S-Corset with its restrictive waist was responsible for the Gibson Girl’s distinctive posture (courtesy of Pearl Chase’s 1905 Scrapbook)

The nation had just become accustomed to the liberated “New Woman” of the late 1890s, early 1900s, (seen here) when a new generation liberated itself and the Flapper was born (courtesy of Library of Congress)

Flapper Style In 1920, the New York Times reported “…the American woman … has lifted

insults. It was up to high-minded women to declare what constituted modesty of dress, he said, “for it is a sad fact that in such matters many women are without conscience.” Fanny Flapper just rolled her eyes and intoned, “You’re all wet!” Throughout the nation, efforts were made to abolish the flapper look. The Y.W.C.A. promoted modesty of dress, and Philadelphia formed a Dress Reform Committee. Over a thousand clergymen added to their pastoral duties by

her skirts far beyond any modest limitation!” Hemlines were a shocking nine inches above the ground. The President of the University of Florida declared that low-cut gowns, rolled hose, and short skirts were “born of the Devil.” In 1925, a Morning Press article referred to the Pope’s campaign against women’s immodesty of dress. Archbishop Shaw of Louisiana commented that the clothes worn by many women upon the streets of New Orleans were an invitation to

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27 August – 3 September 2026

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45 Seaview Drive, Montecito | $5,995,000 | Listed By Emily Kellenberger & Associates

818 Sea Ranch Drive, Santa Barbara

87 Humphrey Road, Montecito

$5,350,000 | Listed By Alyson J Spann

$4,750,000 | Listed By James C Krautmann

1626 Sky Drive, Santa Ynez

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$3,377,000 | Listed By Carey Kendall

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All information provided is deemed reliable, but has not been verified and we do not guarantee it. We recommend that buyers make their own inquiries. Village Properties is an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties. Forbes® is a registered trademark used under license.

27 August – 3 September 2026

villagesite.com | 805.969.8900 | DRE 01206734

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

Beings and Doings Groom and Bride [resp.] in a moment of repose (photo Susie Baum)

these truly loved animals into a sating, conjoining gift of nourishment. The ceremony itself, those sanctified moments beneath a makeshift proscenium heavy with clustered marigolds, will be a sunburst – a benign cosmic explosion. The fancy space rays (excuse me) that typify a blossoming supernova will radiate out from the flower-swaddled altar to buffet the congregation on their wooden benches, joining us in the lovestruck couple’s self-made sacrament. Not so fast.

to swaggeringly adorn but to venerate. The vibe is pure uplift. An unnamable lightness suffuses and pulls at the edges of the scene when a sudden breach in the crowd frames two flayed and skewered lamb carcasses, bound to the earth with sticks and rearing back to hoist skinned limbs skyward in an ecstatic gesture of seeming celebration – in any other setting a Blair Witch Hallmark card. Hoo boy. “I thought this was a vegetarian affair,” I murmur in mild shock to a passing guest. “It’s vegan, actually,” she counters with a crooked grin. At the feast later in the day the head chef will movingly describe the transmutation of

Preceding all this organic woodland joy Preceding all this organic woodland joy is the shuddering, rivet-weakened fuselage we’re obliged to strap ourselves into. We’re traveling from our hometown of Santa Barbara to Portland, Oregon for the lovefest, you see. As usual, Santa Barbara Airport’s unnerving “18th Century Adobe” motif charmingly suits the historical provenance of our onetime village in New Spain, but does little to invoke the promise of tech infallibility the jittery flyer desperately seeks in these moments. My wife and wisecracking grown kids exit the terminal of sun-bleached clay, walk across the tarmac and climb actual stairs to board the boldly implausible machine with its little windows and outlandish dangling engines. I follow with the slouched posture of the damned, click my ceremonial little seat belt (notably less robust than that of my Toyota Camry) and tamp a panic-maddened cackle. The

There Goes Our Baby

by Jeff Wing

alking onto the wedding site I’m struck by the sense of happy commotion, energized folk crisscrossing the rural property with buoyant industry, faces prone with unconscious half-smiles as they each set to the task at hand. These striding busy bees wear a variety of tats, indelible ink mostly dedicated to soft-spoken renderings of the plant kingdom, and I don’t mean jazz cabbage. Vines and leaves and branches make for striking statements when the object is not

Lambs dancing in celebration (photo Susie Baum)

pilot comes on the intercom with the vocal timbre of a drowsy 14 year-old and lightly describes an expected bit of “chop” as we rise to cruising altitude. “Shaddup, Scooter!” my mind blares. A Gathering of Lovebirds has Congregated at a Farmstead A gathering of lovebirds has congregated at a farmstead outside Portland,

Beings & Doings Page 314 314

J O I N U S F O R A N I N AU G U R A L

I N V I TAT I O N A L CONCOURS HONORING EXCEPTIONAL AUTOMOBILES C E L E B R AT I N G T I M E L E S S D E S I G N NOVEMBER 7-8, 2026 S A N TA B A R B A R A P O L O & R A C Q U E T C L U B T I C K E T S & S P O N S O R S H I P S N O W AVA I L A B L E L R @ S B I N V I TAT I O N A L . O R G | S B I N V I TAT I O N A L . O R G

20 Montecito JOURNAL

27 August – 3 September 2026

More than 50 live events. One extraordinary season.

2026-2027

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

Rosanne Cash with John Leventhal, Jan 27

John McEnroe, May 7 In Conversation with Pico Iyer

GALLIM, Mar 11

Anne Applebaum, Jan 31

Bernadette Peters, Oct 15

José González, Sep 26

Stanley Clarke & Hiromi, Mar 5

Yuja Wang, piano, Apr 20

Circa, Duck Pond, Oct 18

Margaret Atwood, Apr 23 In Conversation with Pico Iyer

Hilary Hahn, Dec 2

Scott Galloway, Sep 25 Notes on Being a Man

View the full 2026-2027 lineup at ArtsAndLectures.UCSB.edu 27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

Quarter-Century Concrete AJ Precision Concrete Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary by Zach Rosen

Thoughtful estate planning for families who value foresight, structure, and long-term stewardship. Ambrecht & Martinez, LLP advises clients on estate and trust planning, business succession, and trust administration with an emphasis on continuity, clarity, and fiduciary care. A meaningful conversation can help ensure what you have built is protected and carried forward as intended. John W. Ambrecht, JD, MBA — Founding Partner Leticia Martinez, JD — Managing Partner • 1828 State Street • Santa Barbara, CA 93101 •

www.ambrechtmartinez.com • (805) 574-7305

22 Montecito JOURNAL

wenty-five years is a long time to spend building...anything. For AJ Precision Concrete, it represents thousands of projects, countless relationships, and a reputation earned the old-fashioned way – through consistent, quality work. This August, the Santa Barbara-based company celebrates its 25th anniversary. The milestone traces back to 2001, when founder Antonio “AJ” Gijón set out on his own with two people, an advertisement in the Santa Barbara News-Press and a decade-plus of hands-on experience in the concrete trade behind him. AJ had already spent more than 15 years learning the business. He began in construction in 1985 before joining the union and later spending nearly a decade with Concrete Impressions, a well-known local company. Going out on his own had long been in the back of his mind. “It was always a challenge,” AJ says. “I was always thinking that if I tried a little harder, I could start my own business.” When he finally did, he was starting largely from scratch. Rather than pursue clients from his previous employer, AJ placed an ad in the Santa Barbara NewsPress. The first projects were small patios, driveways and walkways, completed by a crew of just two. Those early jobs became the basis for a company that now employs around 22 people and works throughout Santa Barbara, Montecito, Hope Ranch and the surrounding area. The scale of the work has changed considerably, too. Today, AJ Precision Concrete handles structural projects including foundations, basements and poured-in-place concrete walls, along with caissons, drilling, and dry wells. Its hardscape work extends to patios, driveways, pool decks, flagstone, and pavers, with a wide range of concrete finishes available. For AJ, however, 25 years of growth has not changed the fundamentals of how the company operates. There is an equally firm expectation that employees conduct themselves professionally on every jobsite. AJ asks his team to acknowledge the homeowners, contractors and others they encounter and, quite simply, to be polite. That emphasis on relationships has been important from the beginning. Running his own company gave AJ the opportunity to work directly with homeowners and develop connections throughout the community.

“Life is not a spectator sport.” – Jackie Robinson

J Precision Concrete has been pouring, drilling, and working for 25 years (courtesy photo)

“Trying to talk directly to them and deal directly with them… it’s really nice,” he says. “A lot of really good experiences come from knowing a lot more people.” Those relationships have helped AJ Precision Concrete grow from its modest beginnings into an established local operation. The company now works on projects ranging from smaller residential jobs to extensive structural concrete and hardscape installations, while maintaining the standards that AJ established at the outset. The business is also becoming a family affair. AJ’s daughter Daisy now works with the company and has taken an active role in promoting it, including expanding its advertising and community presence. AJ is quick to credit her efforts. “Daisy is working, and she’s doing an excellent job,” he says. Her push to promote the company more widely has helped introduce AJ Precision Concrete to new audiences while building on the local reputation her father spent decades establishing. The 25th anniversary will be marked with the people who helped make it possible. AJ plans to gather his employees for a celebratory dinner around the anniversary, an appropriately personal way to recognize a company that began with two people and now supports a crew of more than 20. Asked what reaching 25 years means to him, AJ’s answer is immediate. “I’m really happy, really excited,” he says. “I’m always thanking God for keeping us here, keeping us healthy and keeping us with work, and having all those loyal clients and loyal people around the area.” A quarter-century can pass surprisingly quickly. AJ agrees. “It definitely goes quick,” he says. What remains is the company he built during those years, the team around him and the relationships that have kept AJ Precision Concrete working since 2001. The business has grown, its capabilities have expanded, and a new generation is becoming involved. Yet the priorities remain much as they were at the beginning. Quality work, fair pricing, good communication, and respect for the peo ple on the other side of the job.

27 August – 3 September 2026

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SANTA BARBARA REGION BROKERAGES | SANTA BARBARA | MONTECITO | SANTA YNEZ VALLEY © 2026 Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark and used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity. All services/products are provided by independently owned and operated franchisees and are not provided by Sotheby’s

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International Realty Affiliates LLC. Listing information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Dimensions are approximate and unverified. Buyers should consult a qualified professional to confirm measurements. DRE License Numbers for All Featured Agents: Don Johnston: 01868263 | Jason Siemens: 01886104 | Mark MacGillvray: 01395504 | Nate Alker: 01796904 | Maureen McDermut: 01175027 | Susan Conger: 00545024 | : 01742017 | Sandy Stahl: 01040095 | Barbara Koutnik: 00809916 | Lori Bowles: 01961570

27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

Real Estate (Continued from 16 16)) Enjoy these last days and nights of Summer and please keep Montecito friendly.

1060 Ladera Lane – $3,950,000

145 Butterfly Lane – $7,395,000

This is a spacious Spanish / Mediterranean style home (with 2-bedroom guest house) offering over 5,000 square feet combined, in the hills off Ladera Lane with amazing privacy and ocean/mountain views. If you don’t mind driving a few minutes more past the Vedanta Temple and overlooking the estates on Hidden Valley Road, you can have a home on 45+/- acres (across two parcels) that if even a little closer to town would be more likely priced at $5 or $6M or even more on a single acre, depending on neighborhood. The home unfolds with timeless Spanish character, showcasing hand-hewn wood beams, arched passageways, warm terracotta tile, and richly textured finishes. Framed by rolling terrain, open grounds, spacious entertaining patios and sweeping ocean and mountain vistas, the property presents an exceptional sanctuary with a profound connection to its surroundings.

135 Pomar Lane – $6,060,000 Tucked along a peaceful, low traffic lane in Montecito’s coveted Hedgerow neighborhood on a street-to-street lot, this updated listing offers a turnkey 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath single level residence featuring wide-plank French oak floors, new windows and doors, and an open kitchen with quartzite counters and Sub-Zero, Wolf & Bosch appliances. The inviting living room includes a custom fireplace and built-in bar. The serene primary suite opens to a lush patio and spa-like bath. Mature gardens surround a fire pit, koi pond, and magnificent specimen trees. This home, with a long driveway through lush landscaping is just blocks from the Rosewood at Miramar Beach, not much farther to Coast Village Road dining and shopping, and all within the Montecito Union School District.

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Tucked into one of Montecito’s most sought-after coastal pockets, and within the Montecito Union School District, this Butterfly Lane property has you living just a block or so from the shops and restaurants of Coast Village Road – and just a few blocks from picturesque Butterfly Beach, shopping and dining destinations at The Post and Montecito Country Mart, and the storied Montecito Club itself. The 4,100+/- square foot main residence features an open floor plan with four bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms, a media room with full bar and a three-car garage. The primary suite features two walk-in closets and a spa-caliber bath featuring both a walk-in shower and a soaking tub. Bi-fold doors open onto a patio built for entertaining, complete with an outdoor kitchen and built-in BBQ. A detached guest house adds two more bedrooms and a full bath, plus its own parking. Both structures have been fully remodeled, and fresh landscaping wraps the property in privacy while showcasing its natural setting.

802 West Park Lane – $11,350,000

Set on over an acre in one of Montecito’s most desirable locations near the San Ysidro Ranch, 802 West Park Lane features a Mediterranean estate with ocean and mountain views. The home’s primary living spaces, including the living room, dining room, kitchen/family room, and luxurious primary suite, are all conveniently located on the main level, creating a seamless connection to the outdoor terraces, pool, and spa. Recently remodeled, the elegant primary bath adds a fresh, refined touch to the private suite. Two guest suites on the lower level open to a tranquil garden, while the detached ocean-view pool house with a full bath is ideal as a media room, guest quarters, or fourth bedMark and his wife, Sheela room suite. Additional features include Hunt, are real estate agents. a laundry room and multiple fireplaces His family goes back nearly throughout the home. 100 years in Santa Barbara. A formal gated entrance, secondary Mark’s grandparents – Bill gated access, and oversized three-car and Elsie Hunt – were garage complete this exceptional offerSanta Barbara real ing, just moments from Montecito’s estate brokers for Upper Village and within the Montecito 25 years. Union School District.

“The world is run by those who show up.” – Robert B. Johnson

27 August – 3 September 2026

L E G E N DA RY

C O A S TA L L I V I N G

Newly Released Casitas on Storied Grounds Where California’s Santa Ynez Mountains meet the golden shores of Carpinteria Beach is a coastal legacy with no equal. A one-of-a-kind way of life where the illustrious history of the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club is your new backyard. A limited number of 1,376-square-foot, 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath casitas are now available for move-in. It’s a rare opportunity to own a home amidst these storied grounds shaped by tradition and time. Call 805.318.9075 for an appointment to tour the model homes at the Sales Gallery. 135 Polo Way, Carpinteria, CA 93013 | info@sbpoloresidences.com | SBPoloResidences.com

This does not constitute an offer to sell real property. Offers to sell property may be made and accepted only at the sales center. Information is intended to be informative only and does not constitute a warranty with regard to any homes or neighborhoods or any products or services provided by The Chadmar Group or its selected business partners. Home and community information, including pricing, features, terms, availability and amenities, are subject to change and prior sale at any time without notice or obligation. Illustrations, photographs, square footages, floor plans, elevations, features, colors and sizes are approximate for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built.

27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

Montecito Health Coach

The Empty Room: Navigating Your Grief When Your Child Leaves for College by Deann Zampelli

he past 12 months felt heavy with our son’s upcoming departure for university. The marathon of applications, studying, testing and waiting finally gave way to victories; getting into a college he loved, Prom, Graduation, and senior trips. Then, the final days of summer arrived. And while he will always have a home here, my daughter captured the shift perfectly a few days before he left, “It will never be the same as it is now.” Truer words were never spoken. Nobody can really prepare you for how hard it is. Or the stray thoughts that keep popping into my head: For the first time since he was born, he won’t be with us on his birthday – or any of our birthdays. Do I still do the Advent Calendar for both of them even though he won’t be here until the third week of December? You know, the important stuff. And, anticipating the change did not soften the blow. Living the real goodbye felt completely different than imagining it. Maybe because we were so busy leading up to the move. The exhausting logistics of packing and traveling culminated in a tearful, sloppy goodbye. My husband, deep in his own sorrow, tried applying logic and intellect in the moments that followed. But there is no logic. I cried buying eggs the day after we got home. And in the week leading up to the move, I was hell on wheels. Moody, crabby, sad, angry, bratty, emotional. Repeat. This sudden heartbreak is a form of grieving, which like all grief can sneak up on you at the most inopportune times. Family therapist Dr. Pauline Boss coined a term for this in the 1970s: ambiguous loss. It describes a specific grief where a loved one is physically absent yet still psychologically present. Dr. Boss argues that we do

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not need “closure” for relationships that change; instead, we must learn to live with the transition. This type of loss can often refer to an estranged family member, or a loved one with dementia, if a parent moves out after a divorce, or the uncertainty of a family member’s whereabouts. But the idea remains the same. They are still with us, just not here. Living with it requires rewiring the “Parent Brain.” For 18 years, I was programmed to know his exact whereabouts. That instinct does not simply switch off. Even though he was rarely home those last few months, the house now feels quieter, filled with an unsettling calm that I can’t get used to and do not like one bit. The dogs feel the change, too. And just last night, while ordering pizza for my daughter and her friends, my first instinct was to ask Ian if he wanted chicken wings. It took nearly two decades to build these neural pathways; they will not vanish in a week. So, how do we navigate the transition? Like all grief, it begins with allowing yourself to feel it in the first place. After that, here are a few tips to get your started: 1. First of all, acknowledge how your role is different now. While your college-aged baby will always need you, the way they need you has officially changed. You don’t need to have as much of a day-to-day management role. This is a growth period for both you and your child. Both of you are learning how to navigate your new roles. 2. Find some fun ways to fill the extra time. As there will be extra time. Rediscover an old hobby or start up a new one. Start a journal. Do some volunteer work. The key is knowing that you have a bunch of energy and time that you now need a home for. 3. Avoid the temptation to immediately make changes to their room. This will help ease the emotional adjustment period. (Full disclosure, I did a deep clean and a massive organization of his room already, but am holding off on redoing his bathroom for a bit.) Part of this journey is also keeping their room their room. They need to know that even though their life is completely different right now, some things will stay the same – that is their home base, physically and emotionally. And it is yours as well. Too many changes at once can make it hard to remain emotionally regulated. 4. Nurture your relationship with your partner if you have one and reach out to friends. Many might be in the same place as you and there is definitely strength in numbers. Most importantly, let them know when you need help. 5. Lastly (and this is a big one); You are transitioning from being a 24/7 manager to an on-call consultant. Frame this next chapter as personal growth for you, not just them. Find some breathing room in this new identity. Think about what might be possible now that wasn’t before. For now, each day stings a bit less. And while I haven’t cried in the grocery aisle for a few days, I am not making any promises just yet. I find comfort knowing he is happy and finding his own way and I am trying my best to accept this new reality and be a mature adult. But fair warning: If one more person waxes on about “roots and wings,” I cannot be held accountable for my actions.

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26 Montecito JOURNAL

Health and humor in the MJ. National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach trained at Duke Integrative Medicine, Deann Zampelli owns Montecito Coaching & Nutrition. She also has a Masters in Clinical Psychology and has been a resident of Montecito since 2006.

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27 August – 3 September 2026

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Montecito JOURNAL

Pedro (Continued from 14 14))

Nancy and Glen A “Jeep” Holden, SB Polo Club Trustees on behalf of the SB Polo Club share the following along with their photos of Pedro:

knew Pedro for many years, and in all that time, I don’t think I ever saw him enter a room without someone’s face lighting up. That was just Pedro – everywhere he went, people called out his name, waved him over, wanted him close. Nancy Holden and Pedro Rivera He had that effect on (courtesy photo) people. He was gracious in a way that never felt like effort, warm-hearted in a way that was just simply who he was. He loved life, and he loved living it well. Pedro understood something a lot of us are still trying to learn, that quality of life matters, that joy matters, that the best way to live is to live and let live. He enjoyed people, enjoyed moments, enjoyed being here. One of my favorite memories is our trip to Argentina for the Polo Open, Buenos Aires, then Mendoza, where we sampled an impressive amount of Malbec. I didn’t speak a lick of Spanish. Pedro, fluent as ever, rescued me more times than I’d like to admit, laughing the whole way as he translated me out of whatever I’d wandered into. I was, without question, his favorite liability abroad. He was a dear friend to me. We shared countless hours of laughing over nothing and everything, the kind of jokes that never really made sense to anyone else but us. And then, just as easily, we’d fall into the deeper conversations, the ones about life, about what mattered, about who we were. I trusted him with those conversations. I think a lot of people did. Anyone who knew Pedro knew his love of polo. He wasn’t a player, but he never missed a chance to be near the game, cheering from the sidelines here in Santa Barbara, down in Florida, and all the

Donna Neame, Nancy Holden, Susan Stewart, Pedro Rivera, and Armani the dog (courtesy photo)

28 Montecito JOURNAL

Pedro Rivera, Donna Neame, Jeep and Nancy Holden, SB Polo Club (photo by Michelle Lauren/SB Polo Club)

way to Argentina. He was close with many players in that world, and Ruben Gracida was one of his dearest friends. That passion said everything about who he was – someone who showed up fully, wherever life took him. His death came without warning, and I don’t think any of us have fully caught up to it yet. But I don’t believe Pedro is simply gone. I believe he’s still with us, just not in the way we’re used to. Don’t expect to see him walk through the door again. But watch for him. He may come as a bird that lingers a little too long on a windowsill, a butterfly that seems to find you on purpose, a breeze that moves through at The Tribute for Pedro Rivera at Birnam Wood just the right moment. Hole #19 Club Bar (courtesy photo) Spirits find their own ways to say hello, and Pedro, being Pedro, will find his. He will be missed more than words can hold. And he will be felt, in all the quiet ways that matter, for a very long time.

“Pedro Rivera was more than a friend and coworker to me; he was one of those rare people whose presence made every place feel warmer. We had the privilege of working together at San Ysidro Ranch and at The Four Seasons. It was so amazing being able to work alongside someone who knew EVERYBODY. I can’t tell you how many locals, famous people, and very accomplished people would walk up to me and ask ‘Is Pedro working?’ It was a remarkable thing to watch. He had an incredible ability to make everyone feel welcome. Pedro’s family was at the center of his life, and he was deeply connected to the community he served. His warmth, generosity, humor, and genuine friendship touched so many lives. His smile and unmistakable laugh could light up an entire room. I am proud to have called him my friend and coworker, and his presence will be deeply missed.” – Larry Nobles, Director of Operations, Lucky’s Restaurant

“Action is the foundational key to all success.” – Pablo Picasso

27 August – 3 September 2026

“I remember Pedro at the Cafe Del Sol. He would drop in to say hi after his shifts at the Biltmore. He was always kind and wondered how you were doing. He was always soft spoken and always wished you well. A gentle soul with a very kind heart. We need more Pedros in our community. You have truly earned your wings.” – Trish Davis, Historian for Montecito Association

Jordan C. Sweeney, CCM, CSW, General Manager and COO Birnam Wood, shares on behalf of all Birnam Wood staff and residents share the following along with a photograph of the Tribute they made for him on the bar of Birnam Woods’ 19th Hole:

“P

edro was truly the face of our 19th Hole. In the five years he was with us, he became so much more than a bartender. He was a friend to our members, a friend to our staff, and an important part of the Birnam Wood family. He had a way of making people feel welcome, and you could always count on seeing his smile behind the bar. Pedro loved talking about his family, especially his granddaughter, Isabella. He was so proud of her and loved bringing her to the Club. I remember him bringing Isabella to our Family Fright Night last year and again to our Santa’s Brunch. It was really special seeing him get to share a place that meant so much to him with someone who meant so much to him. His passing has been incredibly difficult for our team. Pedro passed away on a Monday, and I remember walking by the 19th Hole the following day during what would have been his regular Tuesday bartending shift. It was eerie and incredibly sad not seeing him there. I think that was the moment it really sank in for many of us that he wasn’t coming back. I was grateful to meet Pedro’s son, Diego, and his mother at the funeral. The Mass was beautiful and a wonderful tribute to Pedro and the lives he touched. We will miss Pedro dearly. Five years may not sound like a long time, but he made an impact here that will last much longer than that. The 19th Hole simply won’t be the same without him.”

“I had the honor to work alongside Pedro during my early years at The Four Seasons Santa Barbara Biltmore. While at the Biltmore, I often overheard hotel guests and locals alike ask, “Is Pedro working today?” As someone new in the hospitality industry, I quickly learned that Pedro had this calming effect on guests and often developed long-term bonds tracing back more than 20+ years. Not only did he know your food and drink order, but he also knew the names of your kids and perhaps all the gossip in town. However, he extended the same level of trust and privacy bestowed upon him by those who shared their life stories with him. Indeed, Pedro shared a moment in his life with us at The Ranch, where he entertained our hotel guests and the local community. He was instrumental in developing many of our most tenured team members and often made it a point to ensure our newest team members knew the preferences of our local community. Losing Pedro sent a wave of self-reflection through our team at the Ranch, as well as the community. Another person lost too soon. However, the strength of his character and the impression he left on us all have brought us together once again as a community, and it’s safe to say ‘Pedro is working today’ on reminding all of us how important our relationships are with each other.” – Ian Williams, General Manager, San Ysidro Ranch and for The Four Seasons Biltmore

“I want to share some thoughts how dear Pedro is in my heart. We worked together 40 years ago at the Four Seasons Biltmore, and being in this industry [hospitality] he worked at the San Ysidro Ranch, and all the other places. I just want to say how special he was, and he will be missed.” – Christy from Hogue Floral

We at the Montecito Journal express our sincere condolences to Pedro Rivera’s family and all who knew him. Anyone wishing to may submit their sentiments and photos for next week’s issue by writing. Email: letters@montecitojournal.net with the subject line: “Pedro Tribute.”

Sarah Dandona and her husband Juan Rodriguez were friends of Rivera for 40 years. They own Teddy’s by the Sea – Pedro’s last place of employment. They set up a GoFundMe page for Pedro’s family and wrote:

edro Rivera was more than just our Assistant Manager at Teddy’s by the Sea; he was a dear friend, a steady presence, and a beloved member of our community since the day we opened eight years ago. For over 40 years, Pedro’s friendship with Juan and his dedication to those around him shaped the spirit of our team. He cared deeply about everyone he worked with, always proud of what we were building together. Outside of work, Pedro was a devoted grandfather to his granddaughter Isabella, and his love for his family was evident in everything he did.

27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

Travel Buzz

On Entertainment

Japan Travels Part 5: Kyoto, Beyond the Temples

Crockett in Jersey

Joe Spano stars in Ensemble Theatre Company’s King of the Wild Frontier, directed by longtime ETC/RTC veteran Jenny Sullivan. The August 30 performance will be followed by an audience talkback with the full creative team.

by Steven Libowitz Tea is a key part of Kyoto (photo by Leslie Andrea Westbrook)

by Leslie Andrea Westbrook

yoto, a sprawling city of 1.5 million, is a captivating patchwork of old and new. More than 400 officially recognized Shinto shrines and approximately 1,600 Buddhist temples are woven into its neighborhoods, along with countless tiny neighborhood shrines tucked into unexpected corners. I picked up a free Rakyo Taxi Kyoto map highlighting 81 temples and shrines, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites – an impossible list to tick off. The contrasts are everywhere: high-rises alongside traditional wooden houses; rivers threading through the city, inviting leisurely walks along their banks; narrow streets buzzing with bicycles, pedestrians, and the occasional car, electrical

wires crisscrossing overhead. Around every corner are restaurants, ryokans, hotels, tea shops, and opportunities to experience Japanese culture. In some neighborhoods, Kyoto can even feel surprisingly like downtown Los Angeles – until, almost magically, you turn a corner and find yourself standing before an ancient shrine or immaculate garden, the urban noise suddenly giving way to stillness. People queue outside tea shops, coffee houses, and perfume boutiques. “Kyoto is where you go to buy tea – and crafts,” a friend had advised me. I took her advice seriously. I brought home gifts from temple shops, exquisite candies from confectionery stores, flea-market treasures, beautiful paper journals, accordion

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he old adage “write what you know” pretty much has not applied to John Romano. The East Coast scribe holds a Ph.D. in English and Comparative Literature from Yale and spent the first years of his career teaching English at Columbia University, authoring a book on Charles Dickens Dickens and Reality and reviewing lit for The New York Times before heading west in his mid-30s. His first job in La La Land was member of the post-Steven Bochco staff of Hill Street Blues, hired by David Milch through their Yale connection. Good move. Romano penned the Emmy-nominated script for the final episode of the legendary police procedural set on the gritty streets of New York, then went on to write for L.A. Law, Cop Rock, American Dreams, Party of Five, Third Watch and Monk, among others, and created three TV series that each lasted for a single season. In the movie biz, his screenwriting credits include The Lincoln Lawyer, the 2011 film that represented the first produced adaptation of a book by Michael Connelly, out a few years before Bosch, the long-running show that has spawned three spinoffs. With his new project this year, Romano is trying his hand at theater, as King Of The Wild Frontier is set to have its second-ever staged reading at the New Vic after a successful debut at Ventura’s Rubicon. The one-man show, which stars old friend Joe Spano, is set in both a country club and a Catholic school in New Jersey in the 1960s, and is meant as a meditation on family, faith, organized crime and the moral choices we make. The piece interweaves disparate stories about a gifted golfer who crosses a line in a desperate act and a student whose faith is transformed by an encounter with authority. More importantly, King Of The Wild Frontier finds the writer finally fully embracing the old adage. He knows a lot about the characters in the play. “I was a caddy at the suburban golf club in New Brunswick, and I was also a student in a Catholic boys school in Metuchen,” Romano said. “The play is partly a recollection and rebuilding of events at the time in that world – the largely Italian American men who were self-made children of immigrants and their sons who went on to a private Catholic school. I drew very strongly on my own experiences.” Everything has been fictionalized and dramatized, of course, in the new “memoirist fiction” genre, but, Romano assured, the world has been rendered accurately. “This is what life was like, and above all what the people were like.” King represents Romano returning to that world, partially to address some unresolved issues related to situations similar to those of the characters played by Spano. “Neither movies nor television allow you much autobiographical enthusiasm, so it’s a chance for me to revisit,” he said. “I was quite a nerdy kid with very different

Entertainment Page 334 334

30 Montecito JOURNAL

“It is not enough to be compassionate. You must act.” – Dalai Lama

27 August – 3 September 2026

Beings & Doings (Continued from 20 20))

Oregon’s splendor covers all the bases (photo Susie Baum)

Oregon, strumming guitars and stringing flowers and laughing their asses off. There will be a handmade altar radiant with human energy, unsuccessfully stifled sobs in the congregation, and such penetrating truth-telling as is ill-advised but in the presence of thronged community besotted with love. Later still a blueeyed wedding guest – handsome face of a Maxfield Parrish sprite and vivid red scarf for a necktie – will tremblingly read aloud from sheets of rhapsodic prose. The theme of his soul-baring soliloquy? A paean to friendship and love offered up to a couple of dear pals, the groom and his sister, and the family that embraced the reader when he was younger and needing anchorage. There are free spirits aplenty in the wedding throng; lavishly inked therapists and engineers, professional clowns, urban planners, a provider of targeted ovine grazing. There is lots of genuine, graceless hugging, not the choreographed, finger-waggling performative hugging made popular in the 1970s by self-identifying “lovers” with shag haircuts (“c’mere, you!”). This is the autonomic hugging of devoted friends literally in love with each other, with the day, with the minutiae of passing hours. But for their collective professional alignment with AutoCad, Vertical Turbine Pumps, the DSM-5-TR, and the odd Proton Exchange Membrane, you could call this ecstatic crowd Dionysian. The long day will end with a hotshot band of musicians/Our Baby The long day will end with a hotshot band of musicians known to Santa Barbara club cognoscenti by name. Friends of the marrieds, they’ve lofted across state lines to contribute celebrated chops to one long dance set wherein Miss Lauren Hill re-educates Lynyrd Skynyrd in a rare communion whose alchemy has wedding guests hopping like Tourette’s marionettes. But those moments under the marigolds hours before are the piercing marvel, the more so because the groom today was once upon a time Our Baby – the first miracle blob born to our tight friend group those years ago, our young, gangly gang welcoming with stunned, disbelieving tears this quiet little bambino, today’s willowy grinning groom at the altar blinking back his own tears and clutching flowers. Good grief. The 27 August – 3 September 2026

utterly impossible does seem to happen with heartening regularity if you play your cards right. I look around at the community into which Our Baby and Our Baby’s Betrothed have lovingly grown and interwoven over years here in the great coniferous northwest, 100 or more eccentrically crafted companions sitting around on wooden benches with wet, stricken smiles of their own – a just counterweight to the world’s general slugfest. Humans are as cosmically fleeting as tachyons, but there is this pinhole of light we’re privileged to reach and peek through on strenuous tiptoe. The bride’s grandmother, a grinningly regal 95 years old, comes to the altar and relays her truth – humor is the secret to a long and supple marriage. With a decorous English accent she tells a brief story that has the gathered loudly guffawing. The groom recites a startlingly musical suite of what he loves and expects and promises to give his betrothed and she returns with her own song of seeing, explaining Our Baby’s filigreed soul with a knowing she alone possesses in all the world, and whose expression speaks to her own inner life, and she is wholly revealed to us in an instant. I glance over at my old high school pals – the groom’s parents. They are – yeah – a mess, these moments more trying, even, than Algebra II. The bride regards her soon to be ex-boyfriend, whose own smile since childhood is that familiar beatific squint. With an expression of capitulation, she shrugs. All poetry but the birdsong is set aside. “It was you all along,” she says.

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Itinerary pallet tells all (photo Susie Baum)

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Travel Buzz (Continued from 30 30))

Tenryu-ji Temple in Arashiyama (photo by Leslie Andrea Westbrook)

OLD TOWN SANTA BARBARA

GREAT FOOD STIFF DRINKS GOOD TIMES

Y‘S

CAFE SINCE 1928

The traditional shojin ryori, an elegant plant-based cuisine of Zen Buddhism (photo by Leslie Andrea Westbrook)

And what a neighborhood for food. On our first night, we stumbled upon Nicolas, a tiny, sublime, one-Michelin-star soba restaurant that was perfect for Olivia’s gluten-free diet. Nearby, a cozy Indian-Nepalese restaurant provided cheap, tasty and filling meals. When we craved Western food, we headed to the Hyatt Regency (not in our neighborhood) for Italian – pizza for me, gluten-free pasta for Olivia. Another memorable find was a tiny buckwheat noodle restaurant recommended by Matsumoto, a taxi driver and self-described foodie. We were the only foreigners in the eight-tatami dining room, reached by climbing a narrow staircase. My favorite meal in all of Japan, however, was a vegetarian lunch at Shigetsu, within the grounds of Tenryu-ji Temple in Arashiyama. The monks prepared traditional shojin ryori, the elegant plant-based cuisine of Zen Buddhism, served on vermilion-lacquered trays in a serene tatami room. Afterwards, we walked through the magnificent gardens in the rain. Travel writer Pico Iyer once told me that rain is considered a

K LUC

A fun beer ad in Kyoto (photo by Leslie Andrea Westbrook)

world-famous Zen rock garden. Sadly, the garden was packed with tourists the day we visited. But Kyoto’s real treasures aren’t necessarily things you can fit into a suitcase. The city offers countless ways to step inside its culture: classes in calligraphy, papermaking, wood carving, indigo dyeing, ceramic repair, knife making, and traditional music. I decided the best way to get beneath the surface – to move beyond simply sightseeing and begin to understand the soul of this ancient city – was to explore some of these hands-on traditions. We spent our first five nights in an Airbnb I had randomly selected online. It didn’t quite live up to its pictures, but our Chinese host, who spoke little English, was congenial and helpful. The spacious tatami room, with futons on the floor, was comfortable and reasonably priced. Best of all, we were in a quiet neighborhood where we could glimpse everyday Kyoto life away from the tourist crowds.

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blessing in Japan, and that afternoon it certainly felt like one. Breakfasts and coffee breaks became another daily pleasure. At Café Perch, a classic Bill Evans CD played while we ate thick almond toast and soft scrambled eggs. (No photos allowed.) At Café 13F, we encountered “Waltz for Debby” yet again – if I had a thousand yen for every time I heard that song in Japan, I could have paid for my trip – while sipping sesame oat milk and noshing on homemade cherry blossom cake. At Hive Coffee, thick toast, bacon, eggs and salad came with bluegrass music and beans roasted on site. These seemingly ordinary moments – the neighborhood meals, morning coffee, river walks, and chance discoveries – were becoming as memorable as Kyoto’s famous temples. Perhaps that is the secret of the city. You can arrive with an ambitious list of monuments to see, but Kyoto continually invites you to slow down, look around, and notice what is happening just beyond the tourist trail. And that was exactly where our journey was taking us.

“The future depends on what you do today.” – Mahatma Gandhi

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27 August – 3 September 2026

Entertainment (Continued from 30 30)) interests from people who often didn’t understand what I was talking about or where I was coming from. I felt like an outsider. And there was a turn I took in my own religious orientation that accounted for my apostasy from Catholicism, from which I’ve never recovered.” Lest that sound heavy-handed, rest assured that King Of The Wild Frontier – the title comes from the theme song to the old Davy Crockett show but has nothing to do with the pioneer – is constructed to be richly layered, funny, suspenseful and deeply moving. Romano said he turned to playwriting because it was meant to be shared verbally, “as if one were sitting around with a couple of guys and a bottle of wine after dinner one night.” Once the story emerged as a piece for performance, he thought immediately of Spano, the veteran actor who he first encountered at Hill Street Blues and decades later engaged to read one of his short theatrical pieces as part of the Speaking of Stories series here in Santa Barbara in 2018. Spano portrays eight different characters in King, and his performance wowed the author at its debut last earlier in August. “It was my first time with what they call the nervous-making process of theatrical rehearsals, when you struggle toward it actually coming off,” Romano said. “What happened on stage with Joe in Ventura was beyond my expectations. Everybody loved it. It suddenly came alive in a new place for me. It was a great experience I expect to be repeated in Santa Barbara.” Ensemble Theatre Company’s presentation of King Of The Wild Frontier starring Joe Spano and directed by longtime ETC/RTC veteran Jenny Sullivan takes place at 2 pm on Sunday, August 30. A post-show talk back with the audience features the entire creative team. Visit www.etcsb.org.

Shake it Up: Lovers in the Great Outdoors Although Romeo and Juliet shared some of the steamiest (implied) teenage love scenes in theatrical history, the actors will keep their clothes on when the UCSB student cast perform William Shakespeare’s classic and still influential tale of star-crossed lovers in two different performance locations over the next fortnight as part of the Naked Shakes program. The company’s name comes from its choices to employ minimalist staging in favor of focusing on energetic, exciting, raw and vibrant renditions of Shakespeare’s plays using the power of the actors and the Bard’s immortal words. Shakespeare’s story of family rivalry, fierce devotion, and the fickle hand of fate (and hate) has been adapted for centuries, including in such works as West Side Story. The play will be performed first for free Tuesday-Thursday, September 1-3, at the Theater & Dance West Courtyard on the UCSB campus. Romeo and Juliet, directed by Irwin Appel, who founded Naked Shakes 20 years ago, then migrates to Eling’s Park Godric Grove for three more shows September 10-11 at 5 pm and September 12 at 3 pm. The production then goes on hiatus for five weeks before returning to the

campus courtyard a few weeks after the student show for a final weekend of performances October 16-18. Visit www.theaterdance.ucsb.edu and www.elingspark.org.

Supreme Talent Octogenarian Diana Ross hasn’t opted out of performing live and even going on tour, including the current one that arrives at the Santa Barbara Bowl on August 27. The Motown legend, who has opened recent shows with her disco smash “I’m Coming Out,” touches on all her eras, including a trilogy of Supremes “Love” songs (“Baby…,” “You Can’t Hurry…” and “Stop! In the Name of…,” but focuses more on solo material, pairing “Upside Down” and “Love Hangover,” “Ease on the Down the Road” from The Wiz, and a few choice covers, including, most appropriately “I Will Survive.” Lots of originally priced tickets remain available. ’Nuff said.

Sold Out Shows of the Week: Roger That Roger Daltrey becomes the latest instance of a British Invasion original showing up at a venue way smaller than you’d imagine when the Who lead singer performs at the Lobero on September 1. Billed as a deeply personal show, the concert will mix Who classics, rare songs and some of his solo career favorites, with the vocalist backed by a semi-acoustic yet rock-driven band. Behind-the-scenes stories are also part of the attraction, but even at the inflated prices, no tickets remain. The Grand on State, the jazz club that noticeably features a grand piano smack in the middle of the narrow store-front space that also serves upscale food, has continued to grow in popularity since opening late in the spring. Case in point: The August 29 show featuring jazz royalty drummer Peter Erskine, bassist Darek Oles and pianist Alan Pasqua is completely sold out, although it’s possible walk-ins might be able to grab a spot at the last moment, or if tables are variously occupied and spots available for the second set. Meanwhile, there’s still room for the other events this weekend, including 10 local luminaries split between Thursday’s Waymarkers Celtic Jazz featuring the Folk Orchestra of Santa Barbara’s Adam Phillips, and The Grand Band featuring saxist-singer Colin Richardson on Friday. Actually, it’s only nine different players, as Grand co-owner keyboardist Brian Mann is part of both.

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• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

I II

MOVING

Moments (Continued from 8)

Iii

Black Satin and Bragging Rights - Geoff, Joey, and Charlie Friedman, with Leo Metzger, Claudia Uretz, and Rhys Williams. (Courtesy Photo)

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together a wonderfully competitive assortment of polo families, Montecito families, professionals and friends, all swinging for the Polo Training Center Santa Barbara, which supports players of all levels while fostering sportsmanship and the next generation of the game. The Friedman Family foursome – Geoff Friedman, Leo Metzger, Joey Friedman and Charlie Friedman – brought Montecito bravado, and captured first gross, while Jesse’s Polo Pros, with Jesse Bray, Felipe Vincente, Facundo Obregon and Nachi Viana, claimed second-place net. Individual bragging rights were equally spirited. Connie Fickel and Jesse “The Body” Duncan landed Closest to the Pin, while Bayne Bossom and Mia Bray proved they could send a golf ball nearly as decisively as a polo ball, taking Longest Drive honors. By sunset, scorecards gave way to supper as players gathered beneath strings of lights overlooking Glen Annie’s rolling hills. Bottles were presented to the winners, laughter carried across the terrace, and a particularly game foursome appeared in matching black robes topped with caps announcing SLICE, SHANK, RINGER and HOOK – just in case anyone wondered how the day had gone. After all, polo players know a thing or two about a good swing. On this occasion, they simply left the horses at home.

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34 Montecito JOURNAL

Course Conquerors Celebrate - Jesse Duncan and Mia Bray (Courtesy Photo)

“You have that nervous energy, and then once the ball is thrown in, everything becomes slow motion.” That calm arrived just in time at the Pacific Coast Open, where Zahedi Chogan staged a roaring comeback to edge Mrs Momma Bear 11–10 in an extra chukka. Mrs Momma Bear – Hunter Azzaro, Santiago Torres, Harrison Azzaro and Mike Azzaro – had built a formidable 9–4 lead before Zahedi Chogan began clawing back. Sy Zahedi, Juan Curbelo, Facundo Obregon and Nico Escobar finally pulled even at 9–9, setting up a breathless seventh chukka. Harrison put Mrs Momma Bear ahead 10–9, Obregon answered, and Escobar buried the deciding penalty for the win. “Being nervous and being excited are almost identical,” Zahedi said. “You channel nervousness into being excited. Then they throw the ball and everything comes down. I love that feeling.” Longtime Carpinteria sculptor John Godkin was appropriately horsing around on the sidelines, holding one of his cast-bronze horses. Godkin created a sculpture you may remember, the life-size bronze stallion installed

outside the Cattlemen’s Inn on Upper State Street in 1972. When the business closed, it was given away and lost. John just amazingly refound it through happenstance. It’s now being restored and installed in front of a whiskey distillery in SLO. Cheers to serendipity. As Zahedi put it, in polo, once play begins: “You hear nothing, see nothing – just the ball right in front of you - what you’re supposed to do.” Seven chukkas later, the nerves were gone, the zone had arrived – and team Zahedi Chogan had survived overtime at the Open.

Mallets to Mulligans Polo players traded ponies for putters – and mallets for mulligans – at the 8th Annual Polo Training Center Charity Golf Tournament, held Monday evening under the stars at Glen Annie Golf Club. Organized by Rhys Williams and Claudia Uretz, the afternoon brought

Lauren Gault and her polo pony Brandy. (Photo by Priscilla)

Winners in the Spotlight - Facundo Obregon, Juan Curbelo, Sy Zahedi, and Nico Escobar, team Zahedi Chogan. (Photo by Priscilla)

“What we do is more important than what we say or what we say we believe.” – bell hooks

A bucking bronco bronze by Carp Sculptor John Godkin. (Photo by Priscilla)

27 August – 3 September 2026

HOWL with Amy Dear Amy, I have always wanted to create a beautiful garden for myself and finally hired and paid (ouch) for my oasis. Around the same time I began planning this garden, I also added a new puppy, Barney, to our family. Fast forward, Barney is now one year old and digging up my beautiful garden, one hole at a time. Please help me, I am in the weeds!

Dear in the Weeds, Congratulations on the beautiful garden and the new family addition, Barney! Here is the good news… this is not a difficult fix. In preparation, begin collecting Barney’s stool from the yard and purchase at least two large containers of Cayenne Pepper. Every time Barney digs a hole, place a layer of his stool at the bottom, cover it with dirt and then douse the dirt with the Cayenne Pepper. Dogs sniff before digging. Reapply pepper for a few weeks after watering plants. It will take a couple of weeks to stop the digging, filling four to six holes. The bonus, poop will fertilize your garden!

Hi Amy, What are some options for dog owners whose dogs are nonstop barkers? Dogs don’t realize that they’re violating a basic rule of society – the peaceful enjoyment of one’s dwelling space. However, their owners should realize this… right? Alas, noise from a neighbor’s chronically barking dog does travel quite far; especially when, on nice days, windows are opened to enjoy the fresh air. So, yikes. I do like dogs, but… your expert thoughts on remedies to this social conundrum would be truly valuable. Sincerely, L.A. Morgan

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Dear L.A., Though this is a little tricky, I completely feel your pain. I suggest starting with an act of kindness (more bees with honey) and visit a nearby pet store and purchase a nice bag of high-level dog treats. When the neighbor is home, bring the treats over and ask if he has a minute to chat. Explain the situation with kindness and ask if the two of you can devise a plan of how best to solve the problem. Options could include agreed upon times when dogs are kept indoors; and/or the use of bark collars designed to self-correct the barking. Best of luck. Amy Peer

Have something to HOWL about? Please send your dog questions to Amy at pets@montecitojournal.net 27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

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Montecito JOURNAL

Friendship (Continued from 5) are coming from around the country with expertise spanning research, caregiver advocacy, journalism, psychology and health care. Westland has been particular about the lineup, seeking people at the top of their fields who can also translate their knowledge into something useful for families. One speaker, for example, is a UCSF researcher whose work explores the genetic component of dementia, an area

36 Montecito JOURNAL

Westland says is frequently misunderstood. Rather than having families sort through search results and conflicting explanations, Friendship Center is bringing an expert directly to Santa Barbara. “The quality of care that we provide is being mirrored in the quality of information that we want people to walk away with,” Westland says. Her hoped-for takeaway can be reduced to one word. Confidence. Confidence to know what to ask a doctor. Confidence to understand that there may be several options available. Confidence to handle some of those situations that become considerably harder when they arrive unexpectedly in the middle of the night. The conference is also meant to grow. Friendship Center intends for this first gathering to become an ongoing educational resource, using feedback from this year to develop future programs. That makes the 50th anniversary less a finish line than a starting point. The following day pivots to the people who built those five decades. The Family Reunion and Picnic will welcome current and former members, families, staff, volunteers and board members from across Friendship Center’s history. There will be activities for children and a memory wall where people can share photographs and stories. Westland initially thought of it as an alumni picnic. “Family reunion,” however, better captures the relationships that develop at the center. “We do become a family,” she says. “This is the most vulnerable time that someone will go through. It’s very isolating. It’s very frightening as a caregiver, and of course for the person experiencing dementia.” Friendship Center becomes, in her words, the place where people come for “the biggest hug.” Those relationships do not necessarily disappear when someone stops attending. Westland still encounters former

groups coming in for live performances. Friday brought a Fiesta Party where caregivers joined loved ones for lunch and a themed art activity. These are not extracurricular flourishes around the edges of dementia care. At Friendship Center, they are part of the care. Members have art to make, music to hear, people to talk with and parties to attend. They have friends. That philosophy was visible during Senior Prom this spring, when members arrived with spouses, children, caregivers and friends for an afternoon of makeovers, corsages and dancing. It is present throughout the week in the center’s art, music, movement, games, and social programming. And the community helps make it possible. The Summer Polo Soirée offered a particularly “Montecito” version of that support. Nearly 100 people attended this year’s gathering at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, and 30 were new to the Friendship Center community. Combined with its summer campaign, the event pushed fundraising beyond its $75,000 goal. Those dollars ultimately make their way back to days like Fiesta and to the larger mission behind them. Friendship Center provides a place for older adults living with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other forms of dementia to remain

caregivers around town. Sometimes all it takes is mentioning a funny comment their parent once made or recalling a small moment from years earlier to bring that person back into the conversation. That is part of what she hopes happens at the reunion. “We’re not asking anyone to dig up old pain,” Westland says. Instead, she wants people to have an opportunity to talk about the lives their loved ones lived and the lives they shared with others. There should be plenty of people around who remember. Westland’s predecessor served in her role for 38 years. One current program team member has been at Friendship Center for 34 years. A volunteer who comes in twice a week was involved in the center’s founding. That continuity is unusual, and it means the September picnic can span generations without losing the common experience connecting them. “Fifty years of the exact same mission, exact same service population,” Westland says. “The need has not diminished. The need has continued to grow.” That mission is easy to see in the smaller celebrations that fill Friendship Center’s calendar. During Fiesta week, special activities took place each day, with local dance

“If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.” – Booker T. Washington

27 August – 3 September 2026

 MA Meeting (Continued from 6) confusing signage, pedestrian safety, and changing conditions around local intersections. These firsthand observations are valuable. They help us identify recurring trouble spots and raise specific concerns with the agencies overseeing the project. If you encounter an unsafe condition, unusual delay, or confusing traffic pattern, please share the location, time and details with the Montecito Association at info@montecitoassociation.org. Photographs are also helpful when they can be taken safely.

To join the Montecito Association and receive the complete weekly member newsletter, visit www.montecitoassociation.org.

Houghton Hyatt is the Executive Director of the Montecito Association

27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

The book has some of the very best dialogue I have ever read (think Raymond Chandler), and author Michael C. Armour paints a gorgeous story with the prose as sweeping as the Santa Barbara vistas. I hope he returns with another. – Leslie Zemeckis

This column highlights a selection of the issues and initiatives the Montecito Association is following. MA members receive our complete weekly newsletter, including timely neighborhood updates, public safety and preparedness information, meeting notices, road closures, direct resource links, community events, and opportunities to participate. Membership also supports the Association’s year-round advocacy, community programs, and work to protect Montecito’s character and quality of life.

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”

The Association is also proud to partner with organizations working to care for Montecito’s natural areas. Through Hands Across Montecito, membership dollars help fund Earthcomb’s ongoing monitoring and cleanup of vulnerable locations throughout the community. Earthcomb reports removing more than 22,000 pounds of litter from Montecito to date. A recent collaborative effort involving Heal the Ocean, Earthcomb, and the Montecito Association addressed approximately 2½ tons of debris left behind near Sea Meadow. It is a powerful example of what can happen when community organizations and residents work together.

“

Community Stewardship in Action Award-winning documentarian, best-selling author, actor and co-founder of the Santa Barbara Literary Festival.

engaged socially while giving family caregivers time to work, run errands, rest, or simply know that their loved one is somewhere safe and welcoming. Its sliding-scale system means an inability to pay does not prevent someone from receiving services. For Westland, reaching 50 carries some emotion. “Even just saying that made me want to cry,” she says. “I just love this place. Absolutely love this place.” There is pride in honoring everyone who has been part of Friendship Center, she says, and also in affirming the dignity of the population it serves. “We have never been just the bingo-and-bolt center,” Westland says. The anniversary, to her, is a chance to double down on “the respect and the dignity and the care and the attention” that people living with cognitive decline deserve. Fifty years offers plenty of history to celebrate. Friendship Center is making room for that history at the picnic table, on the memory wall and in the stories of families returning after years or even decades away. Then, true to form, it is getting back to work. There is a conference to launch, families to educate, caregivers to support, and a growing community need to meet. There will also undoubtedly be another reason to turn up the music, clear some space for dancing and have a party. After all, Friendship Center has had 50 years of practice.

Montecito JOURNAL

The Sporting Life

PCO Final Portends End of 2026 High-Goal Polo Season (photo by David Lominska)

by Steven Libowitz

anta Barbara Polo’s high goal season comes to its conclusion with the final weekend of the U.S. Polo Association’s Pacific Coast Open, the most prestigious tournament of the summer and one of the oldest as it got started a few years after the turn of the last century. Just five teams are competing for the glory -- and having their names permanently inscribed on the bejeweled trophy -- but they’ve spread the spoils around during the previous tournaments this summer. Klentner Ranch claimed the season-opening Skene Trophy, Delta Defence won the Whittier Trust Silver Cup, and last year’s PCO winner La Karina came out on top in the America Cup, the most recent tourney for the 16-17 goal rated squads. After last weekend’s matches, Delta Defence was the only team eliminated from Friday’s semifinals. The first semifinal features Klentner Ranch (led by Ignacio “Nachi” Viana and Jesse Bray) playing Zahedi Chogan (starring Facundo Obregon and Nicolas ‘Nico’ Escobar). The second semifinal will pit La Karina—featuring Carlos ‘Carlitos’ Gracida Jr., Felipe ‘Pipe’ Vercellino, and Lucas Escobar—against Mrs. Momma Bear, led by stars Santi Torres and Mike Azzaro. Admission is free for both games with an announcer and happy hour menu for the 4 pm game. Friday’s winners will face off on Sunday afternoon, August 30, with all the attendant glitz, glamor and galloping horses following a lot of pomp and circumstance before the first toss-in. Even if you have no idea about the rules of polo, it’s well worth checking out at least one of the games, as Santa Barbara is lucky to have some of the sport’s greatest athletes spend their summers in the seaside fields at the Polo Club in Carpinteria. On the other hand, you can also watch the matches online at https://watch.uspolo.org, via video from a drone above the action – although that option precludes you stomping any of the divots at halftime. Visit http://sbpolo.com.

Cancer Kicking Quarterback Can’t Quite Conquer Camarillo Santa Barbara High’s Griffin Arnold sophomore season as the starting quarterback was going gangbusters last fall as he threw 14 touchdown passes against a single interception, racking up 1,250 passing yards in six games. But then he was suddenly diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, derailing both his and the team’s season. Through chemotherapy Arnold recovered quickly and is back at the helm of the offense for the 2026 season. In the opening game against Camarillo High last Friday at Peabody Stadium, he started slow but once again began moving the offense, including a 80-yard, pass-only march to the end zone to open the third quarter. But an interception at the one-yard line in the last 20 seconds resulted in Camarillo claiming the 17-16 victory. Still, good things are predicted for both the SBHS Dons and the resilient quarterback in his junior year. By the way, I just discovered that admission for those 62 and over is free for all SBHS home football games, so why not come relive those memories on the gridiron you may never have had, alongside a whole bunch of grandparents who actually played on the field back when it was made out of actual grass?

Visit https://sbhs.sbunified.org/athletics/fall-sports-schedules/football.

38 Montecito JOURNAL

Robert’s Big Questions Machine Experience? by Robert Bernstein

to think they have any actual experience of the world. Conversely, we can have rich experiences without any interaction with the outside world, while we are dreaming. After being hit by a car years ago I was unable to walk for a while. For the first weeks I could not even change position in bed. Yet I very much enjoyed dreams then where I was fully functional, doing all of my usual outdoor adventures. Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? was a novel, turned into the film Blade Runner. The title causes us to imagine whether machines could possibly dream. In some sense, we know that some can. We are many things: Animal, mammal, ape, physical object, machine. We are a machine that dreams. Some claim that there is something about being biological “wetware” that is necessary for consciousness. Others claim that there is “substrate independence.” Consider this thought experiment: Gradually replace neural circuits in your brain with silicon circuits. Would you continue to be you? Would you continue to experience qualia? Inventor Ray Kurzweil used to talk of humans uploading ourselves into machines to extend our lives and capabilities. He has modified this, saying that it probably has to be done piecewise to retain identity. One thing that is clear to me: Intelligence is neither necessary nor sufficient for qualia. I asked ChatGPT what it would need to experience qualia. It offered a list of things it does not have: A continuous experience of time, stream of consciousness, sensations, emotions, curiosity, boredom, fear, pleasure, an inner point of view. My 2021 article “Wrong but Interesting” raised the Advaita perspective: We are all just characters in the dream of the One Dreamer. All “our” qualia are really qualia of that One Dreamer. But maybe some of us are what gamers call NPCs: Non-Player Characters? I have no good answers. Just trying to keep asking good questions.

ith the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) ethical concerns have been raised about whether AIs can be conscious. And whether they can suffer. I find this interesting for many reasons. Notably, we already know that the animals we eat can suffer, yet we raise them in horrific factory farming conditions. Why the speculative concern about AI consciousness? Nevertheless, I have found this question interesting ever since I was a child, long before I knew of AI: How is it that we experience the world at all? Philosopher C. I. Lewis introduced the term “qualia” in 1929 to refer to our “raw experiences.” The personal subjective experience of the redness, fragrance, and taste of a fresh strawberry, for example. As opposed to the “out there in the world” properties of a thing. Consciousness questions are vast and varied, so this article is just about qualia. I recently attended a book signing of Sensing Qualia by Stanford professor Paul Skokowski. It was mostly a summary of existing theories of how qualia infer the nature of conscious experience itself. I asked him about dreams as an example of pure qualia. He compared dreams with imagination, or with conceptual thinking; a pale version of actual experiences and qualia. I was shocked at his answer. Perhaps primed by plans to attend the talk, the night before attending, I had a lucid dream. A lucid dream is one where you are fully aware that you are in a dream. I used that opportunity to look around and take careful note of everything in the dream’s details. I picked up a leaf and marveled at the intricate vein pattern. I stroked it and felt the veins. A person nearby had a rodent on each shoulder. Perhaps guinea pigs. I noted the lushness of their light brown fur. I stroked them and felt the softness. Skokowski rejected this, saying it was my “imagination.” I rejected his rejection, saying, “I was there. You were not.” I think dreams are a perfect way to study qualia. Some philosophers claim that qualia can only happen because we are physical beings interacting with the physical world. I would argue this is neither necessary nor sufficient. We can make robots with sensors that interact in complex ways with the physical world. Yet I have no reason

“Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

Robert Bernstein holds degrees from Physics departments of MIT and UCSB. His passion to understand the Big Questions of life, the universe and to be a good citizen of the planet. Visit facebook. com/questionbig

27 August – 3 September 2026

Your Westmont

The nursing curriculum expands to include graduate programs

Westmont Warrior Welcome: Record Local Enrollment, Historic Firsts by Scott Craig, photos by Brad Elliott

bout 400 new students arrive at Westmont for Orientation and Warrior Welcome from Aug. 26-30. First-generation students and 21 international students, including dual citizens, missionary and third-culture students, arrive early on Tuesday, Aug. 25, for First Connections. The pre-Orientation program emphasizes the cultural transition and interpersonal connections vital to thriving in college. The Orientation Team and student life staff excitedly welcome incoming students from 27 U.S. states and territories and 10 countries (Brazil, Germany, Guam, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Philippines, Rwanda, Spain, United Arab Emirates, U.K. and Uganda). Westmont also celebrates the arrival of 55 new students from Santa Barbara County, the second largest local group in history and a 28% increase from last year. Twenty percent of the students are the first in their families to attend a four-year college, 40% represent students of color (with 27% identifying as Hispanic), and 46 are transferring to Westmont. Thirty-seven percent of the new students are men with 63% women. Westmont awarded academic scholarships to 93% of incoming first-year and transfer students ranging from $15,000

to nearly $43,000. Additionally, 63 high-achieving, first-year Augustinian Scholars earned scholarships ranging from $28,000 to nearly $43,000. This year’s incoming class enters with an impressive average GPA of 4.2. New students have expressed the most interest in majoring in economics and business (17%), kinesiology (13%), biology (11%) and psychology (10%), while 7% have yet to specify a possible major. The new class includes 118 student-athletes, including 18 members of the inaugural STUNT team and the college’s first para-athlete. The Service of Commitment, a formal ceremony featuring faculty in robes, takes place on Thursday, Aug. 27, at 3:30 pm in Murchison Gym. A bagpipe fanfare then leads new students on their First Walk through the Formal Gardens. Most of this year’s incoming firstyear students were born in 2008. That year, Barack Obama became the first Black president of the U.S., Bitcoin was introduced, Michael Phelps won a record-breaking eight gold medals at the Beijing Summer Olympics, the Tea Fire broke out in Montecito and destroyed 210 homes, Danica Patrick became the first woman to win an Indy race, and the release of Iron Man kicked off the Marvel Cinematic Universe. These young adults represent a late cohort of Gen Z, a generation marked

Students will take their ceremonial First Walk on Thursday

President Gayle D. Beebe welcomes new students and their families to campus

27 August – 3 September 2026

by ubiquitous technology, video-first platforms, and high racial and ethnic diversity. Having spent much of their junior high years during pandemic lockdowns, they navigate unique modern dynamics, including balancing both in-person and online identities.

Westmont Makes History with Graduate Nursing Programs Westmont marks its 89th year with an historic event: full accreditation for the college’s first graduate nursing programs. The WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) has officially approved two off-campus graduate nursing programs: a Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). “These new graduate programs meet a critical need in our community for outstanding nurses equipped to provide crucial leadership and compassionate care in healthcare at our hospitals, clinics and medical offices,” says President Gayle D. Beebe. “With this historic step, we continue to extend our reach and directly serve our Santa Barbara community.” The MEPN launches this fall with an initial cohort of nine students, while the MSN program begins in January 2027. “Establishing graduate programs reaches a broader range of students, attracts diverse new learners and serves the immediate and greater needs of our Santa Barbara community,” says Provost Kimberly Denu. The MEPN, designed for individuals holding bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing fields, combines foundational nursing education, graduate coursework and clinical experience. The MSN program allows registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to pursue leadership roles, career advancement, and specialized practice. Dianthe Hoffman, nursing program director, says the move aims to address local healthcare demands by preparing nurses in advanced roles equipped with both clinical expertise and compassionate care. The graduate offerings build on the strength of Westmont’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN), which enrolls three cohorts

• Voice of theVillage •

of 40 student nurses each year at the Westmont Downtown | Grotenhuis Nursing building on Anapamu Street. With the undergraduate nursing program growing swiftly, the masters programs provide additional opportunities for nursing students seeking an advanced career track. Applications for the ABSN program (now in its fifth year) have increased by 400%, demonstrating ongoing interest in health care and nursing and the appeal of working in a booming career field. Prospective nurses may now apply for the January cohorts for the MEPN and MSN. For more information, see westmont.edu/nursing. To schedule a visit with an admissions representative, call (805) 565-6300.

Observatory Opens for Partial Eclipse The Westmont Observatory opens to the public for a near total lunar eclipse on Thursday, August 27, beginning at 8:30 pm with the max eclipse set to happen at 9:12 pm. Members of the Santa Barbara Astronomical Unit will also attend with telescopes to share. Jennifer Gee, assistant professor of physics and director of the observatory, says the eclipse will already be underway when the moon rises. “This almost total lunar eclipse scores a 96.2% coverage which is a solid A in my gradebook,” she says, “and it’s predicted to still turn the moon red.” The last total lunar eclipse in the area was March 3, 2026.

The blood moon from March 2026

Montecito JOURNAL

M SHERIFF’S BLOTTER Restraining Order / 1200 block Channel Drive Friday, August 07, at 10:56 hours The Reporting Party (RP) is the protected party in a civil harassment order served on subject as the restrained party. On this date, around 10:30, the RP was walking on Channel Drive and spotted the subject, who began to walk in her direction. Subject said nothing, and she turned and went the opposite way. Based on the statement, it is likely subject saw RP and violated the order, which has a 100 yard stay away provision. Contact with subject regarding his version has not been made. The case will be sent to the DA for a filing decision. Indecent Exposure / Jameson Lane Saturday, August 08, at 21:43 hours Suspect was observed fully naked and behaving inappropriately on the beach in front of a beach lounge/restaurant. RP signed citizen’s arrest and subject was arrested on the 314 (Indecent Exposure) charges as well as outstanding warrants. Missing Person / 1700 block S Jameson Lane Monday, August 10, at 16:54 hours On 08/10/26, the RP reported her mother missing. The RP has not been in contact with her mother for approximately one month. The missing subject, a transient typically residing in the Montecito area and frequenting her former address, had been previously contacted by deputies in July in response to a missing report from SBPD. Per this most recent report, RP’s mother has been entered into the Missing and Unidentified Persons Section (MUPS). Auto Theft / 500 block Picacho Lane Monday, August 10, at 17:46 hours On 08/10/26, arrangements were made for two vehicles to be picked up at the above location and delivered to Florida. It is suspected the company – engaged by an online broker for the job – obtained falsified business credentials to bid on the contract. A legitimate subcontractor was used to do the initial pickup and delivery of the vehicles to Long Beach. Since then, the vehicles have not been seen. One of the vehicles’ GPS systems pinged in Long Beach, and when respondents arrived at the location the vehicle was not there. LBPD advised there had been a call for service with similar circumstances the previous week. Both currently missing vehicles were entered into the Stolen Vehicle System (SVS). Meth / N. Jameson/Santa Isabela Thursday, August 13, at 17:46 hours The subject of a traffic enforcement stop was found to be unlicensed and had an outstanding $100,000 warrant for 261 (PC), felony crime of rape from 2014. Incident to arrest he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine as well. He was booked on 12500 (VC), Driving without License; 11377 (HS), Possession of Controlled Substance; and his warrant. Criminal Investigation Division (CID) was notified of the arrest. Vehicle was towed due to expired registration of about two years and being parked illegally at the time of stop. CID notified for potential follow up since original report indicates the suspect was never interviewed.

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Letters (Continued from 10 10)) the landlord remains responsible for paying the city. If a tenant refuses to reimburse the landlord, the burden remains with the property owner. Is that compromise? Then consider the proposed “fair return” process. If rent restrictions prevent a landlord from receiving a reasonable return, the landlord can petition, but the process is complicated. Certain costs, including mortgage interest and depreciation, are excluded from the calculation, while capital improvements face separate requirements. Those may be reasonable accounting rules from the city’s perspective, but they do not necessarily reflect the economic reality of owning rental housing. A mortgage is a real expense. So are insurance, property taxes, repairs, maintenance and compliance costs. Meanwhile, tenants can petition for rent reductions based on issues such as habitability, reduced services or alleged overcharges. So here is the uncomfortable question: If landlords are already operating under today’s laws, is it fair to impose a new regulatory system, require them to finance it, limit which real-world expenses can be considered, and then place significant burdens on them to prove their regulated rent is insufficient? This is not an argument against tenant protections. It is an argument for balanced protections. If landlords are expected to share the cost of a registry, why not create a system in which tenants are genuinely responsible for their share? If landlords have a right to seek a fair return, why not make the process simple enough for a small landlord to use and recognize the legitimate costs of financing and maintaining rental housing? That would be compromise. The same principle should apply to State Street. A pedestrian-friendly downtown can coexist with serious consideration of vehicle access, deliveries, disability access, public safety and business concerns. The answer does not have to be entirely one side or the other. Santa Barbara has no shortage of public participation. Residents show up, speak for hours and submit hundreds of comments. What appears to be missing is the final step: listening to people with whom you disagree and changing a policy because of what you heard. If Eric Friedman is right that local businesses are being “entirely ignored,” then the problem extends beyond State Street. It is a warning about how Santa Barbara governs. Compromise is not weakness. It is not surrender. It is how divided communities move forward together. Santa Barbara should start practicing it. Loy Beardsmore

and a decision that satisfies almost no one enough to end the fight. Santa Barbara’s two defining civic battles of 2026, the future of State Street and rent stabilization, raise a fundamental question: Has our city government forgotten how to compromise? It is worth defining the word. Compromise means each side gives up something it genuinely wants to reach a solution both sides can live with. It is not simply a vote that passes or one side winning while the other is told to accept the outcome. Genuine compromise requires meaningful concessions from both sides. By that standard, Santa Barbara has not seen much compromise. Consider State Street. The City Council voted 5–2 to continue the current car-free configuration while the city works toward its long-term Master Plan. There are legitimate arguments for a pedestrian-centered State Street. There are also legitimate concerns about access, parking, deliveries, disability access, public safety, and the economic health of downtown businesses. Councilmember Eric Friedman has expressed concern about businesses that may not survive long enough to see the eventual Master Plan. He has said the perspectives of many Santa Barbara residents, including established, locally owned downtown businesses, are “being entirely ignored.” That statement should concern everyone, regardless of where they stand on State Street. The city has made some concessions involving accessibility and e-bike safety. But compromise means more than improvements around the edges of a decision that has essentially already been made. After years of temporary extensions, the competing visions for State Street remain unresolved. The rent stabilization debate raises an even more fundamental question: Who has been asked to compromise? There is no question that some Santa Barbara tenants need protection. Housing costs are high, and the city has a legitimate interest in preventing displacement. But landlords are residents and taxpayers, too. Many are small housing providers already operating under existing laws and making long-term financial decisions based on the economics of their properties. The proposed Rent Stabilization Ordinance contains legitimate exemptions and protections, and those should be acknowledged. But it also creates substantial new obligations for landlords, including a mandatory Rental Registry and annual fee. The draft allows landlords to pass up to 50 percent of the registry fee through to tenants, but

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller

27 August – 3 September 2026

News Bytes (Continued from 12 12)) Hickman will present a stunningly illustrated visual journey demonstrating what it’s like to spend a whole day tracking and photographing native bees in the field. Her book, The ABCs of California’s Native Bees, is also featured. Hickman’s work has taken her across the globe, documenting behaviors new to science and capturing some of the first images of living representatives of many species. Her work has been featured across television, digital platforms, and podcasts, including Ologies. She has presented at the 2024 United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) in Colombia and lectured at Harvard University and UCLA. Tickets required. 411: www.sbnature.org/visit/calendar/9221/a-day-of-beeing https://beesip.com/about

Flamenco Under the Stars An international cast of flamenco artists will gather at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum on Thursday, September 10, for Convivencias at Tablao Museo, presented by Artistic Director María Bermúdez. The courtyard performance celebrates flamenco as a living art built around community and connection, bringing together musicians, singers, and dancers from Spain and the United States. The lineup includes Juan Parrilla, Bernardo Parrilla, Carmen Grilo, Ismael Fernández, Andres Vadin, Nino de los Reyes, Timo Nuñez, Sabrina Ybarra, Talia Vestal, Ysabella Yturralde, and Bermúdez. Presented by Flamenco! Santa Barbara and the museum, the evening begins at 6:30 pm at 136 East De la Guerra Street.

‘Western Edge’ Comes to SB Tennis Club 2nd Fridays Art at the Santa Barbara Tennis Club will present Western Edge, a group exhibition showcasing nine contemporary Santa Barbara artists from September 4 through November 4. The show brings together a range of media and perspectives reflecting the creativity and distinctive character of the Central Coast. Featured artists include Nancy Gifford, Ruth Ellen Hoag, Cynthia James, RT Livingston, Cynthia Martin, Kerrie Smith, Marlene Struss, Susan Tibbles, and Veronica Walmsley. An artists’ reception will be held Friday, September 11, from 4:30-6 pm. The exhibition is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm at the Santa Barbara Tennis Club, 2375 Foothill Road.

Tribal Health Clinic Hosts Community Health Fair The Santa Ynez Tribal Health Clinic will host a free Community Resource Health Fair on Friday, August 28, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Tribal Hall on the Santa Ynez

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ALLEN WEALTH MANAGEMENT, 649 Verde Mar Drive, Unit C, Santa Barbara, CA 93103. C.D. Allen Wealth Management LLC, 649 Verde Mar Drive Unit C, Santa Barbara, CA, 93103. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on August 11, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2026-0002030. Published August 20, 27, and September 3, 10, 2026 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: CASE No. 26CV03921 To all interested parties: Petitioner Le’Von RaeAnne Martin filed a petition with Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara, for a decree changing name to RaeAnne Martin. The Court orders that all persons interested in this matter 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. Filed August 13, 2026 by Narzralli Baksh. Hearing date: October 9, 2026 at 10 am in Dept. 4, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Published August 27, September 3, 10, 17, 2026 27 August – 3 September 2026

Reservation. The public event will bring together more than 40 organizations and community partners offering information on healthcare, family and senior services, insurance, caregiving, public safety, and community wellness. Attendees can also participate in a free blood donation opportunity, meet SYTHC medical and dental teams, and enjoy family activities, food trucks, and raffle prizes. All activities are walk-in, with no appointments required. The fair aims to connect Santa Barbara County residents directly with programs and services that support healthier individuals, families, and communities.

Global Coastal Cleanup Day Veronica Lee, Explore Ecology Coastal Cleanup Day coordinator, invites the community to volunteer for Coastal Cleanup Day, Saturday, September 19, from 9 am to 12 pm. Sign up online or show up ready to clean up the beaches and shorelines. What to expect: - Volunteers can choose from a variety of inland and coastal sites at ExploreEcology.org/ccd - Preregistration is not required, but everyone who signs up is automatically entered in a drawing to win prizes from local businesses. - Cleanup supplies such as bags and gloves will be available, but people are encouraged to bring reusable supplies to reduce waste. - On September 19, meet at 9:00 AM at your site, sign a waiver, and begin. - Keep track of what you find. - Report back to your Site Captain with your data and collected trash.

411: https://tinyurl.com/CoastalCleanup-SB-Sept19

SCA Steps Up Community Efforts The Summerland Citizens Association (SCA) is taking a larger role in addressing issues affecting residents and businesses, with a full board, regular public Town Halls, monthly potlucks and weekly coffee gatherings. The organization has also been in contact with the Montecito Association as it develops a similar community-focused approach. At its August 18 Town Hall, the SCA tackled several issues that could also have implications for neighboring Montecito. Cut-through traffic from Highway 101 remains a concern, with residents discussing unauthorized road blockages that have appeared in response. The board is investigating whether converting certain streets to one-way traffic could offer a legal traffic-management alternative. On Wallace Avenue, construction and visual improvements are now complete. Temporary stop signs at the corner of the southbound Highway 101 exit and Evans Avenue will become permanent, while the SCA plans to work with Caltrans on lighting and landscaping maintenance. Emergency preparedness is another priority. The association plans to work with the Fire Safe Council to explore having Summerland certified as a Firewise Community. The board also reviewed $25,000 in Toro Canyon Creek settlement funds received in 2015 for coastal access projects. According to the SCA, $17,411 was later used for attorney fees related to appeals involving a Lillie Avenue gas station, while the remaining $8,345 was transferred to the association’s general fund. The SCA also clarified that the Summerland Community Foundation is a separate organization from the Just You and Your Doctor citizen’s association. Not...you versus some insurance

Anya Consiglio MD

411: www.summerlandcitizens.org

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Way It Was (Continued from 18 18))

Not all the “old dogs” were mortified by the Charleston, though their wives may have been (courtesy of Library of Congress)

Glossary of Terms: • Gams: Legs • Juice joints: Speakeasies, illegal saloons • Drugstore cowboys: Guys that hang around on street corners trying to pick up girls. • All wet: Describes an erroneous idea or person • Bluenoses: Excessively puritanical people; prudes • Hootchie-Kootchie: Carnival strippers; erotic dancers • Mrs. Grundys: Priggish women • Spifficated: Very drunk • The Bee’s Knees and Cats Pajamas: Extraordinarily excellent • Hotsy-Totsy: Catering to modern tastes • Copacetic: Wonderful, fine, all right • All balled up: Confused

In 1923, turneddown hose, rouged knees, bobbed hair, and scandalously short skirts became all the rage, much to the consternation of the Mrs. Grundys of the world (courtesy of Library of Congress)

42 Montecito JOURNAL

emulating Coco Chanel by turning their haute couture talents into the design of a “moral gown.” The resulting dress was very loose-fitting with sleeves below the elbows and a hemline only seven inches above the floor. (Sort of like a clergyman’s robes or a potato sack.) Bluenoses in the state legislatures went further and proposed dress codes backed by fines and imprisonment for violation thereof. Utah wanted to limit hemlines to three inches above the ground, and Virginia and Ohio wanted to limit décolletage to two inches. No more turned up nose and turned down hose! Once the purview of women of loose morals and actresses (the two not being mutually exclusive in the minds of some guardians of morality in the 1920s), lipstick and rouge became vogue for even the girl next door. As the decade progressed, even nice girls were plucking their eyebrows, powdering their noses, rimming their eyes with kohl, and painting heart shapes on their lips. Their mothers were singing “No Man’s Mama” and undergoing a new surgery meant to restore lost youth; the facelift. Not getting anywhere by chastising their daughters for looking like hootchie-kootchie girls, the Mrs. Grundys of Santa Barbara were happy when in July 1925, the Morning Press reported a dermatologist’s warning that “Skin ills and homeliness follow use of powder and paint.” A Professor H.N. Cole spoke before a convention of the American Medical Association claiming facial disfigurements threatened to become epidemic in proportion because in 1921 American women spent $75 million dollars more on cosmetics than they had in 1919.

Equality of Vices Another symptom of women’s rebellion against Victorian morals and an assertion of their new political equality with men was smoking. Women smoked

With the Capitol building in the background, Congressman T.S. McMillan of South Carolina shows Misses Sylvia Clavans and Ruth Bennet how to do the Charleston in 1926 (courtesy of Library of Congress)

openly and theatrically. To counteract this new abomination, the Morning Press published the opinion of Dr. R. Hofstetter, a noted Viennese gynecologist who had written a book entitled The Smoking Woman. Hofstatter claimed that the features of smoking women were sharper and the skin overly taut. “The lips,” he said, “lose their natural color and become pale … and there is a tendency for the lower lip of a female smoke addict to project further than the upper lip. Through this gradual change, the features of the smoking woman become more-and-more masculine.” (Men, of course, were immune to these effects and could continue to smoke, it being a manly thing to do.) Women learned to drink during the era of bathtub gin and speakeasies. Another assertion of their equality with men, their tippling wasn’t always cosmopolitan. In August 1925, Mrs. D. Keith of Santa Barbara led the police on a frantic, drunken chase after Captain Baker stopped her for speeding at Anacapa and East Cabrillo Boulevard. According to his testimony, she had no driver’s license and addressed him profanely. When he told her she was in no condition to drive, she said, “No one can tell me how to drive my own car!”

Prohibition being the law of the land, Flappers found ways to flaunt the law (courtesy of Library of Congress)

She threw the coupe in gear, knocked over Captain Baker’s motorcycle and raced away. Righting his damaged motorcycle, Baker gave chase with siren blaring. After reaching speeds of 58 miles per hour, Mrs. Keith’s motor seized up at the corner of Anacapa and Canon Perdido.

In the 1926 silent movie Dancing Mothers, Clara Bow as “Kittens” Westcourt shows her equality with men by smoking, drinking giggle water, and talking on the phone. (courtesy of Library of Congress)

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Mahatma Gandhi

27 August – 3 September 2026

Having popularized the Gibson Girl look in the 1890s, Charles Dana Gibson depicted a new feminine ideal in the 1920s (courtesy of Library of Congress)

The Community Arts Association’s plans to stage William Somserset Maugham’s comedy, The Circle, created a controversy in Santa Barbara (courtesy of Santa Barbara Historical Museum)

According to Captain Baker, Mrs. Keith, in her spifficated state, continued to vilify him and resist arrest. In her car he found a thermos of whiskey. At her trial Mrs. Keith claimed, “That whiskey was prescription whiskey; Dr. _______ gave me the prescription.” This being now but that being then, Judge Rizor let her off with a $250 fine and a stern warning.

The Moral of the Play/ Censorship On September 24, 1924, the Morning Press announced, “Santa Barbara and Montecito

can prepare for the worst. Their morals are due for a shock!” The Community Arts Drama Committee, despite stiff and vociferous opposition, had agreed to produce William Somerset Maugham’s The Circle at the Lobero Theatre. Opening on Broadway in 1921, the play was an elegant social satire. It was set in 1919, 30 years after Lady Kitty had run off with her husband’s best friend, Lord Porteous. The story revolves around their visit to her now-grown son and his wife, who is also considering running away with an illicit suitor. To complicate things, Lady Kitty’s husband arrives, and the stage is set for what promoters of the Shaw Festival’s 2007 revival of the play called, “a deliciously subversive sendup of the convention of marriage,” or as Fanny Flapper would say, “The Bee’s Knees!” Apparently, the play was too hotsy-totsy for some members of the Santa Barbara Community Arts drama committee. They stood firm in saying that “Santa Barbara must not be corrupted and must be protected from the immoral influences of the modern play.” Three members quit the committee, and one Montecito matron claimed to have gathered over 100 signatures in protest. After the directors of the Community Arts Association were challenged to actually read the play before passing judgment, they agreed that The Circle was

By 1923, women could discreetly bare their legs and arms. but men still had to wear a shirt to cover their nipples as seen in this 1923 photo of Miramar Beach. Note the pier which once stood near the eastern part of the cove. (courtesy of Montecito Association History Committee)

copacetic and could be performed at the Lobero because it taught a moral lesson. After the play, reviewer Sarah Redington didn’t believe that the audience profited from the moral of the story in The Circle. She wrote, “I doubt very much if the play gets over as more than a clever comedy – too cynical to please a great many people.” The editor of the Morning Pres, however, felt that Redington was all balled up. He wrote, “Is it absolutely essential, then, that a play shall unfailingly teach a moral?” A playwright, he said, should be free to explore some slice of life which he sees as interesting, amusing or significant. He should not be obligated to provide a moral lesson. He felt the play was the cat’s pajamas. As the wailing saxophone played on, Santa Barbarans joined the rest of the nation as it struggled to come to terms with the tremendous changes in morals, values, and manners that found voice during the Roaring Twenties.

Betty Strong and friend Lee get ready to ride the surf at Sandyland in 1927 in their bathing suits that have become much more practical (courtesy of Montecito Association History Committee)

Sources: Only Yesterday by Frederick Lewis Allen, contemporary news articles, and http://local.aaca.org/bntc/slang/slang.htm) This article was originally published in the March 18, 2010, edition of the MJ and has been augmented and minimally revised

Photo from the 1921 Broadway stage production of The Circle (courtesy of Library of Congress)

27 August – 3 September 2026

As the century turned, women’s bathing suits were distinctly modest as these two girls show at More Mesa beach circa 1900 (courtesy of Santa Barbara Historical Museum)

• Voice of theVillage •

Hattie Beresford has been writing a local history column for the Montecito Journal for more than a decade and is the author of several books on Santa Barbara’s historic past

Montecito JOURNAL

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Calendar of Events

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29

by Steven Libowitz ENDING THIS WEEK Summer Screenings in Sunken Garden – Downtown is the destination for free Friday film buffs via UCSB Arts & Lectures’ annual series of screenings outdoors under the stars at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Gardens. Besides the spectacular setting for picnicking, pre-screening festivities include carefully curated musical playlists, which makes sense since the theme for the 15th season is Mixtapes & Misfits, focusing on offbeat coming-of-age stories with soaring soundtracks. It all comes to a close this week with Hairspray, the movie that unveiled a whole new side to John Travolta as the mom to teenager Tracy Turnblad as she dances her way onto the teen sensation The Corny Collins Show, simultaneously helping to challenge segregation in 1960s Baltimore while The Rich and Hale History of Rock – Yes, it’s time once again for another installment of “Go To Hale: Quips & Clips,” featuring more music from the vaults of Hale Milgrim (former President/CEO of Capitol Records) and music lover/archivist Richard Salzberg. “Hidden Treasures & Found Footage” is the focus this time around, with the hidden and found referring to the pair’s pilgrimage deep into their seemingly bottomless catacomb of archival footage. This iteration promises to surface for the lucky Lobero audience footage that has rarely if even been seen, and includes arcane film reels, timeworn videotape, enigmatic recordings, tales associated with the artists and the journey – in short, a mixture of reverence for rock and roll and irreverence concerning its all-too-human particulars. WHEN: 6:52 pm WHERE: Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. COST: $33 ($78 premium tickets includes preferred seating and a pre-show reception with complimentary drinks and light bites) INFO: (805) 963-0761 or www.lobero.org

ONGOING

Fall into AD&A – Two multidisciplinary shows of California artists comprise the autumn exhibits at the Art, Design & Architecture Museum at UCSB. Bonnie Ora Sherk: Life Frames Since 1970 is the first major survey exhibition of the late artist, environmental educator, and landscape planner who was known for her temporary public installations and performances. As the founding director from 1974-80 of Crossroads Community (the farm), an experimental community art and ecology center, Sherk shepherded the reconnecting of parcels of land fragmented by freeway construction, conceptualized new uses for overlooked urban landscapes, and laid the foundation for a global movement to reclaim urban spaces. The local exhibit showcases newly transferred film and video alongside rarely seen photographs, collages, works on paper, artist books, printed matter, and ephemera documenting Sherk’s early performances and site-specific interventions. Jackie Amézquita: Gemidos de la Tierra is the inaugural museum presentation of the artist’s socially engaged project on the lost lives of migrants in immigration detention. Rooted in land-based methodologies and ancestral material knowledge, the exhibition examines migration, collective memory, and the relationship between human and more-than-human systems across time. In the title installation, which translates to ‘Wailings of the Land/Soil,’ Amézquita casts in soil sourced throughout the United States the names of individuals who have lost their lives while in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody between its founding in 2003 and today. On November 1 as part of Día de Muertos celebrations, Amézquita will publicly update the work with the names of those who have passed away in recent years. Events surrounding both exhibits will be held throughout the run, including the public reception on September 26, and a Campus Lagoon Walking Tour and curator-led exhibition tour this Friday, August 28. WHEN: Exhibits open 12 noon-5 pm, Wednesdays-Sundays, August 26-November 29 WHERE: UCSB campus, across from the lagoon COST: free INFO: (805) 893-2951 or www.museum.ucsb.edu

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bursting with infectious songs, dazzling dance numbers, and feel-good energy. WHEN: 8:30 pm Friday, August 28 WHERE: Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Gardens, 1100 Anacapa Street COST: free INFO: www.ArtsAndLectures.UCSB.edu. SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 Indy 40 Fest – We don’t normally celebrate a competitor’s achievements, but it seems more than petty to overlook the free one-day festival taking note of the weekly’s four decades of journalism, cast as a block party in an even more historic site. Indy 40 starts on the parade grounds of the El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, which boasts a range of activities including live music from Roll-NRock 805, featuring Bradberri, East Valley Road, and others. Journalism panels take place inside the Presidio Chapel, with some of the paper’s most iconic staff on hand for a discussion, and look for a Reunion Lounge where folks can mix and mingle with current and former staff. (Hey! Why hasn’t the MJ done one of these?!?!?!) WHEN: 11 am-4 pm WHERE: Presido Chapel, 123 E. Canon Perdido St. COST: free INFO: (805) 965-5205 or www.independent.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 30 Prime Time for Plaza del Mar – The still-gleaming Plaza del Mar Band Shell, refurbished less than two years ago, hosts an afternoon performance from Prime Time Band, the Santa Barbara-based community ensemble comprised of more than 60 local adult musicians. Lifelong instrumentalists, newcomers, and those rediscovering their instruments later in life all come together to play for people in public spaces, sharing a love of music from decades of American popular song and beyond. The Band Shell season then comes to a close next Saturday,

“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” – William James

27 August – 3 September 2026

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 ‘Out of the Blue’ – Patricia Houghton Clarke’s new exhibition at her gallery/studio at the Palm Lofts in Carpinteria features 20 recent photographs actually taken in her “backyard” of the nearby beach, where she drifts, camera in hand, archiving the ephemeral. The new works are a series of landscape photographs taken during the winter and early spring in the evening and pre-dawn hours, with the Out of the Blue collection serving as a testament to her love of our natural environment and the magic that occurs between dusk and dawn. WHEN: Opening Reception + Artist Talk, 3-6 pm today; exhibit through November 21 WHERE: 410 Palm Ave., A18 COST: free INFO: www.patriciahoughtonclarke.com

sessions include Oscar-winning features Life of Pi, The Kite Runner, Under the Tuscan Sun, and others. Sunday, August 30, Nowak conducts a special concert for the prolific chamber group, combining live music with a multimedia presentation documenting the history of flight. Designed especially for families and young listeners, the concert offers an exciting introduction to the orchestra and its instruments, with a program that includes Tchaikovsky’s “Serenade for Strings,” the first movement of Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 6, ‘Pastoral,’” and an interactive introduction to the instruments featuring “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” Also on the bill: SLO vocalist Inga Swearingen and string bassist Ken Husted provide jazz improvisation to Bart Howard’s “Fly Me to the Moon” (the song’s original title “In Other Words”), with Swearingen singing the concert’s generationally heart-rending finale “When You Wish Upon a Star.” Following the performance, the Santa Barbara Symphony Music Van will be on site for children to see and try musical instruments for themselves. WHEN: 3 pm WHERE: First Presbyterian Church, 21 E. Constance Ave. COST: $10 general, free for students under 19 INFO: www.sbchamberplayers.org SATURDAY, AUGUST 29-SUNDAY, AUGUST 30

September 5, with Salty Strings, the folk and bluegrass-inspired ensemble that returns to the space for a second year. WHEN: 2 pm WHERE: 23 Castillo St. COST: free INFO: https://calendar.santabarbaraca.gov/event/prime-time-band-plaza-delmar-band-shell-7108 ‘Hello, Jerry’ – Mr. Seinfeld isn’t the subject of this afternoon’s tribute at SOhO, but rather Jerry Herman, the beloved composer of the scores for a bunch of Broadway musicals, including Hello, Dolly!, Mame, La Cage aux Folles, and Mack and Mabel, among others. Herman’s music was memorable as melodies with lift, lyrics with heart, and characters who refused to dim their own light. Ten talented musical theater performers under the name of Your American Songbook not only deliver dozens of Herman’s hits songs but also share fascinating details about his work in this lunchtime show. WHEN: 1 pm WHERE: SOhO - 1221 State St., upstairs in Victoria Court COST: $20 in advance, $25 at the door INFO: (805) 962-7776 or www.sohosb.com Swing Dance Summer Social – Center Stage Theater partners with Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Santa Barbara for a special evening that begins with on-stage dance lessons including the sultry, blues-based West Coast Swing and culminates in a dandy dance social where you can take a spin on the floor with old friends, new potential partners, and even dance instructors. Newbies can learn everything they need to join in the fun at this dance social, perhaps find a new hobby or maybe a connection, and support the ‘black box’ community theater venue. WHEN: Lessons at 5 pm, social 6-9 pm WHERE: 751 Paseo Nuevo, at the intersection of Chapala and De la Guerra streets COST: $20 in advance, $25 at the door INFO: (805) 963-0408 or www.centerstagetheater.org Chamber Players Family Concert – Maestro Michael Nowak served as Music Director of the San Luis Obispo Symphony for 31 years, and his Hollywood studio

Remixed’ Rendezvous – Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s exhibition comes to a close this weekend, but not before featured artist Basil Kincaid shows up for a pair of events. Kids aged 7-12 and their families are the focus for Kincaid’s hands-on Saturday workshop inspired by his A Day at Victoria Glades, a 2021 quilted work depicting a Missouri nature reserve where Kincaid, as a young artist, would go to daydream and set intentions for the future. Using pre-cut fabric shapes inspired by natural forms, along with magazines and other reclaimed materials, families will create their own collages reflecting on personal sites of daydreaming, or favorite ways of connecting with nature. On Sunday, Kincaid joins SBMA Assistant Curator Lauren Karazija to explore ancestry, connection, and conversation via the quilts crafted from salvaged fabrics, retaining the indelible traces of past lives. Describing quilting as a “spiritual technology,” Kincaid engages in a dialogue across time and space through lived-in materials charged with the enduring energy of loved ones. The exhibition itself closes Sunday afternoon. WHEN: 10 am-12 noon Saturday, 11 am-12 noon Sunday WHERE: Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St. COST: $15/$10 INFO: (805) 963-4364 or https://tickets.sbma.net

NOTE TO READERS This entertainment calendar is a subjective sampling of arts and entertainment events taking place in the Santa Barbara area for the next seven days or so. It is by no means comprehensive. Please also see my feature stories elsewhere in this issue for more events. In order to be considered for inclusion in this calendar, please submit information – including hi-res photos – by 12 noon Wednesday eight days prior to publication date. Email: slibowitz@yahoo.com. 27 August – 3 September 2026

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

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46 Montecito JOURNAL

Local Montecito building Contractor accepting jobs big or small Low rates & free estimates Jim: (209) 471-7577

RN Home visits for disease/medication management, prep for surgery and aftercare, home safety, televisits with MD and family, relocation assistance, bridge to other services. Call 805-455-4108 EliteConciergeAlliance.com

REVERSE MORTGAGE SERVICES Reverse Mortgage Questions? Talk to an Expert! All Inquiries Strictly Confidential

HEALTH & ASSISTANCE

ELECTRICIAN

Recognized as the area’s Premier Estate Liquidators - Experts in the Santa Barbara Market! We are Skilled Professionals with Years of Experience in Downsizing and Estate Sales. Personalized service. Insured. Call for a complimentary consultation. Elaine (805)708-6113 Christa (805)450-8382 Email: theclearinghouseSB@cox.net Website: www.theclearinghouseSB.com

LOCAL CONTRACTOR

ELITE CONCIERGE ALLIANCE ELEVATE YOUR HEALTH

HEALTH CARE PROVIDER Primary care provider and pain management specialist on call or salary for in-home care. Experience with paraplegic and palliative cancer treatment therapy or end-of-life support. 14 years of experience – acupuncture, massage, and patient care. Kristen Swegles LAc., MTCM, CMP Kristenswegles@gmail.com (805) 729-5270

TILE SETTING

LIVE-IN CAREGIVER

Local tile setter of 35 years is now doing small jobs only. Services include grout cleaning and repair, caulking, sealing, replacing damaged tiles and basic plumbing needs. Call Doug Watts at 805-729-3211 for a free estimate.

Compassionate, physically strong, experienced live-in caregiver seeks private live-in for elderly client in Santa Barbara or Ventura County. 5 certificates & 10 years experience I am neat and clean! Excellent references from previous clients. Please text (858) 316-9731 if interested

CARPET CLEANING Carpet Cleaning Since 1978 (805) 963-5304 Rafael Mendez Cell: 689-8397 or 963-3117 PIANO LESSONS Openings now available for Children & Adults. Piano Lessons in our Studio or your Home. Call or Text Kary Kramer (805) 453-3481

HANDYMAN Handyman serv. Goleta to Montecito Reasonable rates No material markup Call to discuss your needed repairs Many years serving the area 805-680-8025 EXPERT ADU GUIDANCE Expedite ADU Process FREE CONSULTATION SB & Montecito Michael Humphrey (805) 570-3333

CARS FOR SALE

PERSONAL ASST., HOUSE MGMT., & MORE…

1981 Excalibur series IV Phaeton 17,848 miles, mint condition. $42,000 1997 Dodge Viper GTS 28,440 miles, mint condition, blue white stripes. $91,500 Call Craig 661-747-8333

Personal Assistant / House Management / Housekeeping / Companion. Trilingual – English, Spanish, French. Live In / Live Out References & Resume Available Nathalie Ruiz Ruinat18@gmail.com (310) 770-6666

RENTAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Foothill Property Management We care for your rentals. FoothillPM.com 805-698-4769

GAYLE NAGY – NMLS 251258 805.448.9224 gnagy@gemcorp.com Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the CA Residential Mortgage Lending Act. 3625 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite 258 Westlake Village, CA 91362 NMLS 2427

Middle-aged retired MD specialized in Wellness & Prevention, available for live-in or on-property personal & medical assistance. Exchange for private accommodation & stipend. Excellent local references. Please inquire by initial text to 805-268-7876.

ART LESSONS Mentorship in painting and drawing, practice and theory. Small group, individual guidance. All levels accepted. 805-886-6513 www.valorifussell.com

ANDSCAPE REATORS PET CARE & HOUSE SITTING Professional, dependable pet lover available for pet sitting, dog walking & house sitting. Flexible schedule, great rates & references available. Call or text: (312) 315-5035

EDUARDO RODRIGUEZ

(805) 617-6683

EDUARDO@LANDSCAPE-CREATORS.COM IRRIGATION INSTALLS

HARDSCAPE INSTALLS

PLANTING INSTALLS

LICENSED LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR: #1129976

“No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it.” – H. E. Luccock

LIGHTING INSTALLS

BUSINESS DIRECTORY CONT...

ESTATE/SENIOR SERVICES

27 August – 3 September 2026

Mini Meta

Last Week’s Solution:

By Pete Muller & Frank Longo For each of the first five mini crosswords, one of the entries also serves as part of a five-word meta clue. The answer to the meta is a word or phrase (six letters or longer) hidden within the sixth mini crossword. The hidden meta answer starts in one of the squares and snakes through the grid vertically and horizontally from there (no diagonals!) without revisiting any squares. PUZZLE #1 1

A B S M A A C O P I N O N M U S I C L A N D

G O A T W E L C H I N S T A T R E A T H E N S

S L R P I A F T A N G O H I D E R E N T S

O N C E A G A I N B R I T S L E V Y E S E

O F F A T L A S S E O U L O R O N O F I R S T

B T S G E R I I M A O K M O U T H S S T S

LAND

WITH

THE

CITY

SEOUL

SOUTHKOREA

PUZZLE #2 3

PUZZLE #3 4

Across 1 WWF/WWE show that's been running continuously since 1993, informally 4 A sentimental person may turn to it 5 Electric battery inventor 6 Stave off 7 Michael Sheen's role on "Ancient Rome: The Rise and Fall of an Empire"

Down 1 7-Across was one 2 His signature expression is "Ruh-roh!" 3 "Did you really just say that?!" 4 It requires a change of address 5 4-Down facilitator

Across 1 Duck's kin 5 "___ One" (2025 hit for Drake and Central Cee) 6 After a homophone of 5-Across, astringent lotion from a plant 7 Word that can precede or follow take or turn 8 All 4-Down players, e.g.

Down 1 You might use an astringent lotion after one 2 Become dry, shrunken, and wrinkled 3 Maker of the Nitro V 15 gaming laptop 4 Ducks play in this, for short 5 "Doctor ___" (2006 novel featuring a "grammatically correct TimeLord")

PUZZLE #4

PUZZLE #5

Across 1 Gp. concerned with people who are carrying on? 4 Portobello alternative 6 Penske alternative 7 Guzzlers don't take these 8 It results in heads about half the time

1 6

8 8

Across 1 See 5-Down 4 Josh who set a Knicks' regular-season record with nine triple-doubles in 2025 6 Jones whose 2024 album "Visions" won a Grammy 7 Voice a view 8 Wood for some decks and desks

Down 1 With 6-Down, "God forbid!" 2 Rachel Zegler's role in Spielberg's "West Side Story" 3 Many a TikTok trend 5 With 1-Across, nickname for Tyrion Lannister on "Game of Thrones" 6 See 1-Down

Across 1 Animal house? 5 Jazzman Jamal with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award 6 Isn't fair, in a way 7 It's worth 10 in 21 8 Things people indicate by shaking their beans?

Down 1 Devices set up next to mouse pads? 2 His line "I hear things are just as bad up in Lake Erie" was expurgated from "The Lorax" 3 Apiece, in sports scores 4 Thing you have to do 5 It's south of Lake Erie

META PUZZLE 4

Down 1 With 3-Down, convicts with close connections, once? 2 Like protein-building acids 3 See 1-Down 4 Salon staff, for short 5 Animal house?

Across 1 Bad thing to discover in a wall or a tooth 6 Politically correct pronoun 7 Actress Amy of "Angel" and "Ordinary Angels" 8 Victoria's Secret customer, usually 9 Flounder may flounder in them

Down 1 Mouthful of tobacco, colloquially 2 Intel-gathering mission 3 Words on a tour guide's badge 4 Look around for some answers? 5 Adjusts the spacing between, as printed letters

LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY Residential & Business Professional telephone & gate Phone opener Systems service 805-217-8457

CorporateTelecom@Rocketmail.com opener

*Nortel/Norstar, Panasonic & all others *Telephone, line & gate connections *Installation, troubleshooting & repair *Licensed & Insured with 25+ years experience

Professional telephone & gate opener service

805 West Landscape, Inc. 1012 Pacific St., Ste. C San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 P.O. Box 6225 Santa Barbara, CA 93160

Santa Barbara Estate Management

Joe Boudre (805) 319-5364

www.santabarbaraestate.management City of Santa Barbara Business License # 984709

Medicare

Health OR Insurance Options “We make sure it works out for you”

Jordan Futch

President - Brandon West

LANDSCAPE INC

BrandonW@805West.com (805) 296-3665

DESIGN – BUILD – MAINTAIN

WAXING

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MICROLash Lifting NEEDLING + Brow APPLE Lamination STEM CELL Lash Tinting THERAPY

27 August – 3 September 2026

www.805West.com

Andrea Dominic RPh Sherry Saffarnia, PharmD Thomas Johnsonbough RPh. 1498 East Valley Road Montecito, CA 93108

Phone: 805-969-2284 Fax: 805-565-3174

Compounding Pharmacy & Boutique

MACC CONSTRUCTION Building Dreams

License # 0773817

WE SPECIALIZE IN ADU CONSTRUCTION, KITCHEN & BATHROOM REMODELING, DECKS

Bilingual Staff

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(805) 683-3636 3412 State St., Santa Barbara, CA 93105

CONSTRUCT1.MAC@GMAIL.COM | LIC 949275

LASHES Nuh Kimbwala Certified Travel Associate-CTA

Montecito, Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez

Santa Barbara Branch 3712 State ST, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 805-898-2808 Direct kimbwala.nuh@ace.aaa.com www.nuhluxurytravel.com @nuhluxurytravel

• Voice of theVillage •

Montecito JOURNAL

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Office Globally

©2026 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your home is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation. Santa Barbara office; award based on 2025 production of 1,361 offices in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Global Network.

813 ROMERO CANYON RD, MONTECITO 5BD/7BA • $24,500,000 Josiah Hamilton / Brittany Arntz 805.284.8835 / LIC# 01415235 / 02055307

1130 GARDEN LN, MONTECITO 5BD/5+(2)½BA • $17,500,000 Dan Encell 805.565.4896 / LIC# 00976141 1381 E A S T VA L L E Y R O A D. CO M

468 CROCKER SPERRY DR, MONTECITO 3BD/3+(2)½BA • $12,995,000 Bartron Real Estate Group / Beth Goodman 805.563.4054 / 805.455.1909 LIC# 01005021 / 00966870

1381 EAST VALLEY RD, MONTECITO 7BD/5+(2)½BA • $11,500,000 Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group 805.565.4014 / LIC# 01426886

610 OLIVE RD, MONTECITO 5BD/4BA • $10,875,000 Cristal Clarke 805.886.9378 / LIC# 00968247

663 LILAC DR, MONTECITO 5BD/6+(3)½BA • $10,500,000 Cristal Clarke 805.886.9378 / LIC# 00968247

850 ROCKBRIDGE RD, MONTECITO 5BD/3+(2)½BA • $8,995,000 Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group 805.565.4014 / LIC# 01426886

2000 SANDY PL, MONTECITO 3BD/3½BA • $8,750,000 Dan Encell 805.565.4896 / LIC# 00976141

135 POMAR LN, MONTECITO 3BD/2½BA • $6,060,000 Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group 805.565.4014 / LIC# 01426886

1080 LADERA LN, MONTECITO 4BD/4BA • $4,500,000 Garrett McCaw / Jeff M Oien 805.252.2335 / 805.895.2944 LIC# 01457796 / 00852118

189 HERMOSILLO RD, MONTECITO 4BD/4½BA • $4,475,000 Brittany Arntz & Josiah Hamilton 805.680.5946 / 805.284.8835 LIC# 02055307 / 01415235

526 SAN YSIDRO RD#A, MONTECITO 3BD/2BA • $4,150,000 Cristal Clarke 805.886.9378 / LIC# 00968247

546 ARBOL VERDE ST, CARPINTERIA 3BD/2BA • $2,295,000 Jessica Stovall & Lindsey Densmore 805.698.9416 / 310.991.6439 LIC# 01887272 / 02162929

4024 GREEN HERON SPRING RD, CARP 3BD/2½BA • $1,550,000 Joe Parker 805.886.5735 / LIC# 01314939

8 5 0 R O C K B R I D G E R O A D. CO M

S A N TA B A R B A R A • M O N T E C I TO • G O L E TA • V E N T U R A • O J A I • L O S O L I V O S • PA S O R O B L E S • W E S T L A K E V I L L A G E