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Montecito blaze ravages homes
Photo by Star staff
A topographic view focusing on the approximate burn areas and evacuation orders for the Tea Fire in Santa Barbara, California. Based off of information available Monday morning, November 17, 2008. Sources: County of Santa Barbara, KEYT, KYTD, Community Television 17 Santa Barbara, and Santa Barbara County Fire.
Photo by Star staff
A top down view of the approximate burn areas and evacuation orders for the Tea Fire in Santa Barbara, California. Based off of information available Monday morning, November 17, 2008. Sources: County of Santa Barbara, KEYT, KYTD, Community Television 17 Santa Barbara, and Santa Barbara County Fire.
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More from the Tea Fire in Montecito.
Video: Homes burn »
Video: Students take shelter »
Slide show »
Photo courtesy of Anthony Lombardi A fire burning in Montecito Thursday night is seen from Carpinteria, looking westward.Ê
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Firefighters were holding their own Friday against a wildfire that destroyed more than 150 homes in a wealthy, celebrity-studded enclave, but authorities warned that evening wind gusts could send the blaze on another destructive sprint.
Santa Barbara County Deputy Fire Chief Tom Franklin said up to 200 homes may have been destroyed or damaged in the fire.
The burned area expanded to 1,800 acres.
Montecito fire spokeswoman Jackie Jenkins said Friday night another 1,500 homes are threatened, but wind conditions in the early evening were relatively mild.
Fierce winds were blamed for fanning the flames that quickly spread across Montecito on Thursday night and into Friday. Thirteen people have been injured in the blaze, which more than 1,000 firefighters are working to contain.
Winds are expected to decrease today and Sunday.
Meanwhile, in the San Fernando Valley a brush fire broke out at 10:30 p.m. Friday at the southern edge of the Angeles National Forest.
The fire was sparked at a park in Sylmar and quickly spread to 100 acres in an hour, Los Angeles Fire Department spokeswoman Melissa Kelley said.
Television footage showed several homes engulfed in flames.
Santa Barbara County Fire Chief John Scherrei said little progress had been made on containment because firefighters were concentrating on saving homes and didn’t have the needed resources to make a solid attack on the perimeter of the fire.
Electricity interruptions were expected to continue because of downed power lines, and fire officials are asking people to conserve water.
Bridges in the area could be unstable, and gas lines are still burning, according to fire officials. About 35 people were expected to spend Friday night at a shelter at San Marcos High School in Goleta, where about 200 people spent Thursday night.
Much of the damage to homes and a small college occurred Thursday night, but several more homes burned Friday in Montecito, home to celebrities such as Rob Lowe, Jeff Bridges, Michael Douglas and Oprah Winfrey.
Winds had been expected to pick up after sundown.
“It’s not a time to relax,” Franklin said. “Everybody’s got to be diligent through tonight. It’s the last evening of these wind events.”
Franklin asked for patience from residents as crews try to catalog the devastation in remote hilly areas accessible only by winding roads.
“We want to make sure the area is completely safe before we let people back in there,” Santa Barbara City Fire Chief Ron Prince said. “I have to beg, basically, for your patience.”
At least 13 people were injured. A 98-year-old man with multiple medical problems died after being evacuated, but it was unclear if his death was directly related to the blaze, Santa Barbara County Sheriff-Coroner Bill Brown said.
Blistering winds gusting to 70 mph, dry brush and oil-rich eucalyptus trees helped turn an ordinary brush fire into an exploding inferno that quickly consumed rows of luxury homes and part of Westmont College, where students spent the night in a gymnasium.
The fire began about 6 p.m. Thursday before it chewed through multimillion-dollar homes whose shattered windows glowed like jack-o-lanterns.
“That whole mountain over there went up at once. Boom,” said Bob McNall, 70, who with his son and grandson saved their home by hosing it down. “The whole sky was full of embers.”
A state of emergency was declared in Santa Barbara County, and about 5,400 homes were evacuated in Montecito, a town of 14,000.
At least part of actor Christopher Lloyd’s property was damaged in the fire, the Los Angeles Times reported on its real estate blog.
Lowe, the actor, told KABC-TV he fled with his children. “Embers were falling. Wind was 70 miles an hour, easily, and it was just like Armageddon. You couldn’t hear yourself think.” He said his house hadn’t burned.
Fueled by vast stands of eucalyptus trees — which exploded when lit — and decades of chaparral and other growth, the fire quickly spread.
Earlier the fire had been estimated to be about 2,500 acres, but the estimate was lowered after better aerial mapping was conducted, said Ron Prince, the city fire chief.
Ten people were treated for smoke inhalation and three others had burns, said Michele Mickiewicz, a spokeswoman with the county emergency operations center. Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital reported receiving three patients with substantial burns.
At Westmont College, 1,000 students were evacuated.
Flames consumed a eucalyptus grove on the campus and destroyed several buildings housing the physics and psychology departments, at least three dormitories and 14 faculty homes, college spokesman Scott Craig said.
“I saw flames about 100 feet high in the air shooting up with the wind just howling,” he said.
Among those worried about their homes was talk show host Winfrey. During a taping of the show Friday morning, she said the fire was about two miles from her house. Homes of her friends and neighbors were destroyed.
It’s not a good morning for us,” she said. “Some of my friends left their homes with only their dogs last night as I was calling, ‘Are you all right? Are you all right?’ They said, ‘We have the dogs and the kids aren’t here, so we’re OK.”’
Evacuee Tom Bain relived the hellish scene after fleeing his home in five minutes with his three cats, some work files and a computer. On the way out, he saw at least six mansions on the ridge above his home explode in flames.
“I saw $15 million in houses burn, without a doubt,” said the 54-year-old electrician. “They were just blowing up.”
Gwen Dandridge, 61, and her husband, Joshua Schimel, 51, found their home standing on Friday morning.
“We have a house! We have a house!” Dandridge shouted.
— Star staff writer John Scheibe and AP writers Bob Jablon and Solvej Schou in Los Angeles and Thomas Watkins in Montecito, contributed to this report.
Associated Press contributed to this report.
Posted by ebrockway on November 14, 2008 at 4:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Also;
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,4...
Posted by dcsfancy on November 14, 2008 at 5:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)
http://www.countyofsb.org/ceo/oes0.as...
Posted by Ms_California on November 14, 2008 at 6:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This is just horrible. This fire is just eating up this beautiful area. My heart goes out to all of those involved as well as to those who have lost their homes. No one should lose their homes.
Posted by kosmoz13 on November 14, 2008 at 7:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
May the firefighters be protected and the families who've lost their homes, placed in a safe temporary place. My heart goes to those who have been displaced or injured in this disaster. Bless the firefighters for their heroism always.
Posted by NightLight on November 14, 2008 at 7:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
God bless the firefighters and all of those who are affected by this disaster. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Posted by lawabider on November 14, 2008 at 7:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This fire started on my friend's property - the land was vacant and the property was just beautifully landscaped -- arson is suspected!!!
Posted by AnnaWhaat on November 14, 2008 at 7:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
How tragic....Praying for the firefighters fighting this fire. And those who have lost thier homes. My Condolences to those who have. They say now its heading more towards the town of Santa Barbara.
Posted by mac_tire_224 on November 14, 2008 at 7:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Many of our County and City firefighters are up there. Stay safe. Battle Hard, like you always do.
Posted by SCfan01 on November 14, 2008 at 7:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
God Bless all of our heros, the firefighters and the families who have lost their homes!
Posted by damary on November 14, 2008 at 8:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Truly sad to hear this happening to such a beautiful and historic area. My prayers to the firefighters and those suffering loss.
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 9:08 a.m.
(This thread was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 9:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am just saying what alot of you are thinking, but just don't have the guts to.
Posted by NightLight on November 14, 2008 at 9:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dairyclown, can you really be that angry, bitter, and jealous? NO ONE deserves to lose a home.
Posted by mac_tire_224 on November 14, 2008 at 9:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Amen NightLight.
Posted by JepsonVash on November 14, 2008 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
well, if the fire gets to the Milpas area, it will be affecting a lot of hard working people in a working class neighborhood.
Posted by JepsonVash on November 14, 2008 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Not that it is good for rich people's homes to burn down either. In addition to no one deserving to lose their homes, it is a waste for things to burn up, they just create smog, and it costs a lot to put out the fire.
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 9:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Rich people are BLOODSUCKERS, look at the shape our economy is in now because of greedy rich people who want more than they can ever consume. Wake up!!!!! Or are you one of them?
Posted by FedUp on November 14, 2008 at 9:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
dairyclown - you are a complete fool. some of my very hard working co-workers lost their homes last night. and no, they are not rich fat cat people. they are hard working middle class folks, who are sadly, without a home, or any of their possessions. go away!
"acre of razorblades" - the Scotch Greens
Posted by lawabider on November 14, 2008 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dairyclown, are you on welfare? Did it ever occur to you that these folks EARNED their wealth? Looks like you're the one that needs to WAKE UP!
Posted by JepsonVash on November 14, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Socioeconomic discrepancy is not the issue here. Do you realize how many millions of dollars it will take to put this out, in addition to firefighters putting their lives in danger? How is that going to affect the budget?
Posted by SCfan01 on November 14, 2008 at 9:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Just plain clown:
Bad Karma will get you every time! What comes around goes around!
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 9:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It's not good for anyone to lose a home??? How about all the foreclosures??? Did they deserve to lose their homes??? Who created that mess, a bunch of greedy arrogant rich people, maybe???
Posted by chair on November 14, 2008 at 9:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The home losers should follow La Conchita's example: Sue the "planning" agency that permitted them to build there, to install non-native plants, etc. The hills in Sunny Southern are _supposed_ to burn! There are plants that require it. Whatever other reasons there are only our Maker knows. We have overpopulated an area that naturally should contain rather few humans. Nature's revenge is slow in coming but it is sure! Sorry, folks, but facts is facts.....
Posted by lawabider on November 14, 2008 at 9:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
again, clown, no one put a gun to the head of those signing the loan documents for homes they could not afford in the first place -- personal responsibility is key... Have you been a "victim" all your life??
Posted by FedUp on November 14, 2008 at 9:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)
nice try dairy clown. haha. good luck getting both feet into your mouth now.
"wooden heart" - Elvis Presley
Posted by SCfan01 on November 14, 2008 at 9:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
dairyclown
Are you really this stupid! Have you ever heard of people just being motivated enough to be rich? Hard working people! Get a life! Go away!
Posted by FedUp on November 14, 2008 at 9:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Nature's revenge is slow in coming but it is sure!"
natures revenge is Arson? not that this is definitely the case, but gimme a break. La Conchita is a completely different set of circumstances. try comparing apples to apples please.
"hard luck kid" - street dogs
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It will be good for the economy, construction workers, Joe the plumbers, electricians, landscaper, interior decorators, and all kinds of salespeople, cars, furniture etc. I am sure the firefighters will enjoy the money from all the OT.
Posted by NightLight on November 14, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Believe me, Dairyclown, if I was a rich fatcat I wouldn't be sitting at my desk at work right now hoping my boss doesn't catch me typing this, lol.
I don't live in a nice expensive house but I know people who do, and for the most part they are kind, decent people who worked hard for what they have. I can tell that arguing with you isn't going to go anywhere, to be honest the real reason I'm writing this is so people who were affected by the fire will know that not everyone is like you, and that there are people who are sending our prayers to them.
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 9:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am middle class, retired, House paid for!! Never took a Equity Loan. Pay cash for what I want or need. Have a great family. I figured out the mortgage thing was going to be a problem back in"93".
Posted by Jacksprat on November 14, 2008 at 9:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It sure seems that dairyclown has nothing to do but sit in front of the computer and make nasty comment. Maybe what he/she should do is go up to Montecito and help the firemen with their job. There are I am sure some dirty work you can do rather then picking on the people who lost their homes. They may be rich cat, but a home is a home and we should not be sitting around being nasty. If you can't find anything nice to say then shut up.
God bless the firemen they deserive all of out support at all times. In times like this they are there first to make sure no one is hurt, then if possible to save property. So dairyclown why don't you just do some thing for these good people, if your house was on fire they would be there too.
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on November 14, 2008 at 9:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It's tough that people are losing their homes, but I don't think I'd lose much sleep over mansions and essential compounds getting burned down as I'm sure they're covered via insurance and the owners have more than plenty to spend weeks at the Fess Parker DoubleTree while they wait for their claim checks to come in and re-build their luxurious homes.
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 9:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
As far as earned! Rich people are parasites they did not earn it, they suck the life out of working people!!!
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on November 14, 2008 at 9:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Firefighters are very courageous and should be paid more for risking their lives over "property".
Posted by SCfan01 on November 14, 2008 at 9:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
DClown:
Also, very jelous and angry! Maybe you should do some volunteer work!
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on November 14, 2008 at 9:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
dairyclown: Have you had your Zoloft today?
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on November 14, 2008 at 9:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
What really S*CKS is that Westmont lost some buildings and professors lost some housing....that's a tragedy.
Posted by Monday on November 14, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I hope there is no human loss in this fire and they get on top of it before anyone else losses their home. I have some friends on the fire line and pray for all the firefighters out there doing their job. Amazing that on my way home last night it was only 4 acres at 6:00.
Not all the rich are philanthropist, and there are some that have no problem putting the burden on the working class.
Citigroup is getting ready to lay off thousands of workers and raise credit card interest rates, according to a published report Friday.
The battered financial services company will be laying off 10,000 workers, on top of the 23,000 job cuts it has already made over the last four quarters, reported The Wall Street Journal.
Citigroup will also be adding three percentage points to the interest rates of some credit card customer
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 10:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Once again, look at the economy, RICH PEOPLE DID THIS, in the private sector and government!!! Angry YES, Sympathy for the rich NO......
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on November 14, 2008 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Just checked Zillow for that area...homes range between $1.4M and $17.5M....yeah....I'm not too worried. Just hope people had the sense to LEAVE and no firefighters get hurt.
Posted by FedUp on November 14, 2008 at 10:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
what really sucks, is most of you are not even anywhere near the fire, and have no clue as to how scary it really is. hardworking, middle class people have lost their homes, and are sitting in gymnasiums crying.
stop talking about stuff that has nothing to do with the fire dairya$$clown.
"born free" - Bouncing Souls
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on November 14, 2008 at 10:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
30DeV....that interest rate hike on the credit card debts will be for those that have low credit scores not the currently low rate holders with excellent credit score. HOW in the world will it make it better? That will leave those people with a DEEPER hole to climb out of....ridiculous! To be fair, it should impact across the board.
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on November 14, 2008 at 10:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
FedUp: Middle class? You call owning a home that's between $1.4M and $17.5M middle class? Damn! Then I must be in poverty.
Posted by dc_n_vta on November 14, 2008 at 10:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Geez, there sure are some 'haters' on this page today. Maybe DairyClown's home and possessions will be burned to the ground and we can all tell him he deserved it for having a home that is paid for!
God Bless all of the FireFighters and the volunteers out there who are risking their lives to save these peoples homes.
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 10:11 a.m.
(This thread was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on November 14, 2008 at 10:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Oops...forgot...
"Fire" - The Ohio Players
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on November 14, 2008 at 10:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Smoke on the Water" - Deep Purple
Posted by Monday on November 14, 2008 at 10:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Those with low credit scores to begin with probably don't have the resources to afford a interest rate hike. The fact of the matter is that those people also didn't do anything to deserve that except use Citigroups products. It similar to the practice of universal default and arbitrarily adjusting interest rates even when the customer is in good standing with that lender/institution. They break their own business then decide it's up to the rest of us to bail them out.
Universal default is the term for a practice in the financial services industry for a particular lender to change the terms of a loan from the normal terms to the default terms (i.e. the terms and rates given to those who have missed payments on a loan) when that lender is informed that their customer has defaulted with another lender, even though the customer has not defaulted with the first lender.
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on November 14, 2008 at 10:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"The Roof is on Fire" - Rock Master Scott and the Dynamic Three
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 10:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Censorship is alive and well at the STAR I wish the real Ventura County Star Free Press was still here not this shawdow of a good newspaper.
Posted by FedUp on November 14, 2008 at 10:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
dairya$$clown - did you ever think that some of these people who have lost homes, could have possibly been owning them for more than a couple of years? get a clue. some homes that have burned were selling in the hundreds back in the 80's.
don't be upset that you can not afford a million dollar home. I sure hope you never lose your home in a fire someday. the irony would be too much to handle.
"one celled creature" - NOFX
Posted by JepsonVash on November 14, 2008 at 10:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Whoever mentioned non-native plants earlier has a real point. If Montecito weren't full of eucalyptus, pine, and palms, and instead were planted with coast live oak, sycamore, and bay, this fire would probably not have burned more than a handful of structures.
Posted by JepsonVash on November 14, 2008 at 10:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Also, the home I am thinking of is the one I rent in downtown SB, and I am at this site to see where the fire is, let's debate economics another time. I am in Ventura now and it is very windy, but it doesnt look like Montecito is getting the winds anymore.
Posted by Monday on November 14, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
how close is it to the Bowl?
Posted by FedUp on November 14, 2008 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
http://wildfiretoday.blogspot.com/200...
there is probably a better map out there somewhere.
Posted by Monday on November 14, 2008 at 11:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks Fed... Have a friend who's house is up there.
Posted by kind1 on November 14, 2008 at 11:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Gotta figure out some way for each home to keep their own water tank, which works on gravity to a fire sprinkler system that would soak these large expensive estates. Catch the rain water, top off with stored city water, put a few mosquito fish in the resevoir and be prepared... Got a fire, soak your estate, and evacuate. This one is costing way too many people way too much.
Posted by ibeam on November 14, 2008 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Those are great topo maps. Thanks you.
Posted by JepsonVash on November 14, 2008 at 11:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Yeah, rainwater cisterns are a great idea for a variety of reasons. If it's sealed, you dont have to worry about mosquitos or other contaminants. People also should plant well-chosen drought and fire resistant native plants (not chamise!) in their yards, and make sure they remove WEEDS from their fire clearance area. Too often the native plants are removed, but the grasses and mustard, which actually carry fire faster than native plants, are left there. With a 'defensible space' full of mustard and eucalyptus trees hanging over your home, you are asking to lose everything you own.
Posted by MickeyMouse on November 14, 2008 at 11:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I do wish the fire fighters a safe battle! If this was arson - the punishment should fit the crime. Why don't these people sue someone for not bulding a safety fire proof wall around their house or for letting them build in such a dangerous area? La Conchita won why can't they?
Posted by Rocket81 on November 14, 2008 at 11:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Where are all the firefighters? I have been watching the live feed on KCBS and have seen numerous structures on fire and not one fire truck or fighter to be seen. Seems strange to me. One would think that they need to get flames and buildings out so they wont spread when the winds pick back up.
Posted by FedUp on November 14, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
keep in mind, alot of these roads are very narrow and in pretty bad shape. a lot of these homes are in tough to get to places. most of the battle is being done from the air right now.
and this is completely different than La Conchita. stop comparing the two, because you can't!
Posted by Why on November 14, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
dairyclown:
the rich didn't get rich off everyone just people like you!!!
do what you want-Bad Religion
Posted by dse_kpa on November 14, 2008 at 11:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
dairycow, take a chill pill:
"Article discussions on this site are to support community debates of issues related to our stories and editorials.
Discussions should not stray from the subject of the story or editorial.
We do not allow the following:
Posts that degrade others on the basis of gender, race, class, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation or disability.
Disparaging remarks, abusive language or obscene comments.
Threats, whether obvious or veiled.
We reserve the right to delete threads and/or ban users for these or other reasons we deem necessary"
Posted by Legs on November 14, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dairyclown: I just can't hate on you for your comment, 'it will be good for the economy, construction workers, Joe the plumbers...' because that it true. Eventually there will be an influx of new work here, and unlicensed, non-taxpaying plumbers and handymen will come out of the woodwork!
Those wealthy homeowners have lost material possessions but if they didn't insure, that's their own fault. The insured rich and the insured middle-class homeowners will be able to start again -- that is, if they are motivated * enough! Terminology courtesy of another commenter.
Sorry buddy, but motivation is not the only factor in wealth accumulation.
Posted by JepsonVash on November 14, 2008 at 11:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
As much as I dont want to join the economics discussion, I have to laugh about someone voicing lassiz-faire (sp?) trickle down theories and then quoting bands like NoFX and Bad Religion.
Posted by Ms_California on November 14, 2008 at 11:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)
dairyclown.. is that old man that sits on the porch of his 1950's built home that looks like crap and yells at the neighborhood kids to get off his lawn.
Posted by ibeam on November 14, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks for the updates.
The topo maps are very telling.
Posted by FedUp on November 14, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"quoting bands like NoFX and Bad Religion."
no one is "quoting" these bands, just mentioning what the current song they are listening to is.
"good good things" - Descendents
Posted by NightLight on November 14, 2008 at 11:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I had a friend in high school who used to voice the most offensive, ridiculous opinions in class. When I asked him about it he said he didn't really believe them, he just wanted to spice up the discussion and get everyone all worked up. I think I've found him. Dairyclown, how've you been? Are you going to the reunion? :)
not listening to anything, still at work
Posted by JepsonVash on November 14, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
oh, i wasnt sure what the song names were supposed to represent, if they were a reflection of the posts or not. There were some good songs on that list though
"my coworkers talking" - at work :(
Posted by MickeyMouse on November 14, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"FedUp" - I wasn't comparing this to La Conchita and understand that this is different. It's just that I'm sure someone will be at fault for "letting" this happen. No one ever wants to be accountable for where they live. I personally live in a remote area that could easily be threatened by fire and/or flood. During La Conchita my house was also demolished, however no one knew about it and it was no one's fault but my own for living in a flood plane.
Posted by classifiedgal on November 14, 2008 at 12:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Some of those homes lost in the fire, have been handed down to family members for generations. Big and grand on the outside....but not so grand on the inside. No one deserves this - to lose all you've worked for, family histories handed down through the decades, photos from generations ago, grandma's wedding dress, perhaps a set of china that came over 'on the boat'. Whatever the memoribilia, it's gone for ever. And to you, Dairyclown - you seem to be an equal opportunity hater - you hate the rich, you hate the working class (the firemen) - most likely hate your family too. It must be awful to be so miserable all the time.
Posted by brwnbear on November 14, 2008 at 12:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
my prayers to everyone that was affected by the fire and to our fire fighters god bless you guys
Posted by slkrchck on November 14, 2008 at 12:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
be careful, firefighters.
Posted by srcheek on November 14, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Everyone, simmer down. There are a lot of people who work in Montecito that can't afford to lose their jobs. Just because Montecito is known for being a wealthy enclave doesn't mean they deserve to lose their homes or treasured possesions that can't be replaced by insurance money. Be grateful you don't live there, you don't work there and you don't have loved ones fighting that fire. Take your hatred elsewhere.
Posted by icanilluminateu on November 14, 2008 at 1:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
dairyclown (with ephasis on CLOWN)
Many of the rich people you hate so much have worked very hard for their wealth. Just because you are a poor, worthless slob and can't make "the big time", don't take happiness in other people's loss.
Maybe you should get off your butt and try some hard work
Posted by icanilluminateu on November 14, 2008 at 1:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I love this from dairypoo:
"It's not good for anyone to lose a home??? How about all the foreclosures??? Did they deserve to lose their homes??? Who created that mess, a bunch of greedy arrogant rich people, maybe???"
The people who gave them sub-prime mortages. And if they were dumb enough to take out a mortage that was over their head - yes they deserve to lose their home for taking on a risky loan.
"Banks" gave them the loans, not some rich cat.
maybe a little education would help you get your facts right.
Posted by eclipsewatcher on November 14, 2008 at 1:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
First of all, Godspeed to all of the firefighters and emergency personnel.
DAIRYCLOWN: Are you actually rooting for the alleged arsonist??? Not only have people lost their homes (which is tragic enough), but also photos, personal items, family heirlooms and mementos that cannot be replaced. Judging from your comments, you're no better than the twisted psycho who struck the match. He's undoubtedly off somewhere watching the news and getting his rocks off over all of the pain and suffering he has caused. You're doing the same thing with your "let's-sock-it-to-the-rich-folks" attitude.
I haven't had a chance to read the updated articles on this story, but I understand that some celebrity homes were at risk (or maybe even lost at this point). DAIRY, the next time you watch the Oprah Winfrey Show or go to the movies and plunk down your hard-earned cash to see a Brad Pitt film, just remember that you're helping these "fat cats" get richer.
Posted by getreal on November 14, 2008 at 1:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
You people disgust me. Who cares if they had million dollar homes or if they had shantys. Try loosing every photo, every scrapbook, every award you ever earned, every peice of clothing you own, every piece of artwork your child ever made. People lost more than a structure, they lost their memories, momentos, their everything. Just because they may have more money than you does not take the pain away. Have some class and be respectful.
Posted by Onebaddeluxe on November 14, 2008 at 1:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Dairyclown .. be thankful you're not one of "them".
Simple Man - Lynyrd Skynyrd
Posted by Legs on November 14, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I forgot to applaud Laura Milburn - it sure sounds like she just did what was right to help her neighbors without regard to her personal safety. I believe that there are people like that out there and it's good to recognize them -- go, Laura!
Posted by motherof2 on November 14, 2008 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Dairyclown, your way of thinking and saying what good things you have in your life, I don't wish this on anyone, but eventually something not so positive will happen in your life that will make you look back and tell yourself, " why did I say that,or what was I thinking, or WHY DID THIS HAPPEN TO ME. Seriously, think about what you're going to say before you say it. Stop bragging about what you have because one day you may lose it all.
Posted by Rhetorical on November 14, 2008 at 1:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Just to add to the completely irrelevant and marginally offensive conversation that always seem to populate this forum...
They have an adult kickball league?
Posted by nojustice_justus on November 14, 2008 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
BabyzDaddy_01--fortunately, two of the buildings that burnt down at Westmont were going to be razed in order to rebuild new ones...an ironic twist to this mayhem. A school official gave that report last night on channel 9 news. FYI.
"Fire on the Mountain"-Grateful Dead
Posted by OjaiGuy on November 14, 2008 at 2:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
No Justice "Fire on the Mountain" is the Marshall Tucker Band
Dairyclown I work for a rich guy, me and about 140 others around the world. He hangs on to employess when business sense says to lay us off. He treats us with the utmost respect and really cares about us as individuals.
"How Can I Miss You if You Won't Go Away?" Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks
Posted by JepsonVash on November 14, 2008 at 2:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Speaking of forum trolls, where is Carp Coyote to complain that all the native plants should be bulldozed off the hills and defend his poor, precious eucalyptus from all the slanderous allegations that it is flammable?
Posted by happy2bmom on November 14, 2008 at 2:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am so upset to see some of these negative comments like the ones from dairyclown.
I'm trying to raise two daughters to be honest, respectful, caring, kindhearted, people that want to help in times of need.
This is a time of need poor, middleclass or rich. It doesn't matter! How about showing these people in our community some respect and support in whatever form we can give it, even if it's just a small uplifting comment.
The loss of a home is horrific whether it is a shack, a mansion or something in between.
It's not just a building, it provides a shelter for a family that holds photographs, memories & sentimental items.
A home no matter how large or how small holds a story within; a story of families and friends enhanced by photographs, sentimental items, etc. that can not be replaced.
The loss is so much more than a building.
Also, firefighters and other emergency personnel are risking their lives. Please be respectful of them and what they are trying to do.
To the people that have been affected by this fire, I am so sorry. My family and I are praying for you.
To the emergency personnel working on this fire--thank you. My family and I are praying for your safety.
Posted by nojustice_justus on November 14, 2008 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
OjaiGuy--totally different lyrics. Do your homework. I sure did. Its the Grateful Dead.
"Almost ablaze still you dont feel the heat
It takes all you got just to stay on the beat.
You say its a livin, we all gotta eat
But youre here alone, theres no one to compete.
If mercys a business, I wish it for you
More than just ashes when your dreams come true.
Fire! fire on the mountain!"
Posted by OjaiGuy on November 14, 2008 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
No Justice, Can't You See? We're both right. :-)
Posted by nojustice_justus on November 14, 2008 at 3:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The 'Smoke got in my eyes'-The Platters, although I like Garcia's version. (smoke gets in your eyes)
Posted by godslove1 on November 14, 2008 at 3:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ok ok I couldn't resist..."Hot Child In the City" by I dunno who...
@ dairy clown...(what a screen name) those folks work so hard for their money and possessions that I could not even imagine going head to head with them. They may hire and pay folks to work for them but as far a sucking the life out of the working class...nah...you've got it allll wrong if you have an issue with it then don't work for them otherwise zip it!
God bless those people and may He keep them in his protection.
Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 4:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I guess I have been put in my place! I did get a lively discussion going though. Thanks, for taking the bait.
Posted by lmcventura on November 14, 2008 at 5:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Posted by dairyclown on November 14, 2008 at 4:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I guess I have been put in my place! I did get a lively discussion going though. Thanks, for taking the bait."
Here's a tip...Stop acknowledging you know who's brainless writings and then he wont have anything else to contribute (not that he contributes anything worthwhile) since he is retired, the only excitement he can get is to rant stupidly and get a kick out of all of your outrage!!...
On another note, truly a bad thing to happen to those folk, no matter what their scale in life, just more calamity!!...May it get better for them all, and may all the firefighters return home safe!!
Posted by eclipsewatcher on November 14, 2008 at 5:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
DAIRYCOW: Your comment "Thanks for taking the bait" should come as some comfort -- to the family of the 98-year-old gentleman who perished; the now homeless residents of the 100 homes which were consumed by the fire; the residents of the 5,400 homes which were evacuated; and the 1,041 fire personnel battling this conflagration -- of the posters on these boards sending the victims their thoughts, well wishes and prayers.
Jeez, make yourself useful, go milk a cow!
Light My Fire - The Doors
Posted by coastalslinger on November 14, 2008 at 5:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I was thinking about all the losses from this fire.....I sure hope Carol Burnett's home wasn't affected.
Can you imagine how many memories she must have in her home. The ones spanning her career, the photos she must have, and the awards.
I just can't fathom how devestating the total loss of one's home must be. Rich, or not.
My heart, and prayers are with everyone there.
Posted by bugmenot on November 14, 2008 at 5:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
STOP FEEDING THE TROLLS!!!!
kudos dairyclown. you got half the posters all riled up. seems you were successful in your endeavor.
for the rest of you- it is like the zoo, don't feed the trolls. if you want him to stop, don't dignify him with a response.
Posted by eccentricjeff on November 14, 2008 at 5:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Second to last paragraph. 'Opera Winfrey' ???
Posted by sparks240 on November 14, 2008 at 6:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
There are some parts of Montecito where fire insurance can't be purchaced at any price. Those people gambled and lost. They are going to need to be rich in order to rebuild.
On top of all the losses, there will be many not so rich (dairyclown's friends) people out of work. Gardeners, maids, and pool boys to name a few.
Posted by ironwoman on November 14, 2008 at 6:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sometimes I wonder if people like Dairyclown are just writing stuff to make people react.
Whatever, it was a stupid remark.
I hope the best for these people that lost their homes. I saw the news last night and couldn't believe how fast they burned. Sad.
Posted by eclipsewatcher on November 14, 2008 at 6:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
DAIRYCLOWN: Oh, brother! I thought it was "DAIRYCOW." Well, I got it right the first time . . . whatever . . . go milk a cow or a clown . . . same difference, for pete's sake!
Fire - Pointer Sisters
Posted by acerbas on November 14, 2008 at 8:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
While many of the folks who lost their homes are undoubtedly fine, decent, philanthropic citizens I can't give them very high marks for common sense. What person in their right mind would build a home, multi-million dollar or otherwise, in an area so vulnerable to wildfire, as witnessed by the 1964 and 1977 conflagrations?
Arson set or not, the area was bound to ignite sooner or later given the fuel buildup over time, especially the exotic plants. Read the chapter in John McFee's fine book The Control of Nature on building structures on Southern California mountainsides. (And in the same book he described the lunacy of building in the Mississippi delta, anticipating Katrina by almost 20 years.)
And I know some fine, intelligent people who live almost on top of the Hayward Fault in Oakland, which, according to Stanford seismologists has a very high probability of a major eruption within the next 30 years.
Just more stupid human tricks, imo.
Posted by sheltonclan on November 14, 2008 at 9:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
My thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost their homes. It really doesn't matter how much they are "worth" - your home is your home.
What I am curious about is the brush clearance laws in SB county? Does anyone know - I know here in VC the fire dept. strenuously enforces the brush clearance, but from pictures there it looks like much was growing right up around many of these homes? Looks beautiful, but...? I realize now is not the time, but for future reference (and as a reminder to all of us), I would be interested in a comment from an SB reader familiar with the clearance rules there.
Posted by JWFOXNEWS on November 15, 2008 at 7:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Breaking news-President eect Obama made the statement FEMA should not be involved in the disatrious fires in Montecito. He stated those are all rich white people,they can handle it on their own.
Obama stated that FEMA is to lend a helping hand to poor minorities like what happened in New Orleans.
Posted by SoSad on November 15, 2008 at 7:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
JWFOXNEWS: do you have a link for that? I'd like to read that article.
My heart goes out to all those people that have lost their homes. Rich... poor... they now don't have a home and have lost their belongings.
Posted by US_Citizen on November 15, 2008 at 8:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Star!!!! Where is your censorship here? I tagged all of dairycow comments just now, but they were from last night. How could you let that happen? He/she should be banned from this comment section. He/she is the boil on the butt of society. Unbelievable!!!!
Posted by US_Citizen on November 15, 2008 at 8:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
On another note, thank god for the firefighters who put their lives on the line every day. God bless those who were affected by the fire. For those who lost their homes I am very sorry. I hope NO one will lose their lives. If it is arson, I hope the person is caught an prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
JWFOXNEWS: I would like read or see what you are talking about as well.
Posted by northwestprincess on November 15, 2008 at 8:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
These homes are in an area where owners pay high insurance under the CA Fair Plan. Once the insurance pays off the claims the residents, and taxpayers, will pay more. Soon our Governor will declare this a disaster and open the way for more tax dollars to assist these people in this disaster. Tragic that they have lost their beautiful homes, but the future holds hope, and bigger and better homes with all of our help.
Posted by hamiltonfamily on November 15, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dairydude is a reason we probably need a 3-day waiting period on keyboards. irksome.
firefighting is dangerous and thoughts and prayers should be with the families and neighbors, regardless of how many zeros appear on their tax returns...
I do, however, find it a bit interesting that the fire started in the neighborhood of the loudmouth idiot that launched Obama on us, though. just a thought.
Posted by US_Citizen on November 15, 2008 at 9:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
hamiltonfamily: Loudmouth idiot? Who are you referring to?
Posted by heregoes on November 15, 2008 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dairyclown:
The fat cats probably own companies that EMPLOY a lot of people (perhaps you are employed by a company?).
The fat cats may own a company with shareholders who own stock. This stock (in a normal economy - would appreciate and pay dividends). Do you own stock in your pension, savings mutual funds? If not you, then a lot of hard working people do.
These so called "fat cats" probably took a huge risk by starting their business and are now providing jobs, healthcare to their employees, profits to shareholders, etc.
They deserve whatever wealth they have earned and should be thanked for the jobs they provide.
I am sorry for their loss.
Posted by hamiltonfamily on November 15, 2008 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Oprah Winfrey
Posted by US_Citizen on November 15, 2008 at 10:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ohhhhhhhhh....ok, that's what I thought. Just curious.
I see the star still has not removed the comments from the arrogent dairyclown. Maybe when they layed off all those employees, they lost their censorship people.
U-there Star?
Posted by mind_riot on November 15, 2008 at 10:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Not that others haven't said so already, but I would like to take a moment to give a HUGE "shout-out" to the hundreds...thousands of people who are assisting people during their time of need with all of these fires: firefighters, law enforcement, ambulance and hospital staffs, relief shelters, red cross, animal shelters, food banks, hotel workers, neighbors, friends, and everyone else who is stepping up in others' time of need.
You are heros.
Posted by mind_riot on November 15, 2008 at 10:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
And one more thought - enough of your dadburned political posts. Stop being so partisan, narrow-minded, and hateful.
If you aren't part of the solution, you are part of the problem.
Posted by mind_riot on November 15, 2008 at 10:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
No, I didn't type "dadburned."
Posted by mind_riot on November 15, 2008 at 10:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
godddammmed
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