Was it random? Was it targeted? In this episode, Liz tells us about the meth-fueled murder of Phillip Bogdanoff at a Santa Barbara County nude beach.

This week, we'll learn more about Black history in Santa Barbara, focusing on the remarkable story of Otto Hopkins and his iconic Cotton Club. Through exploring Hopkins' life and the cultural significance of the Cotton Club, we uncover a lesser-known yet vital chapter in the broader narrative of African American contributions to American society.

Born in the late 19th century, Otto Hopkins was a trailblazer in Santa Barbara's Black community. Despite facing discrimination and adversity, Hopkins emerged as a prominent figure, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to uplifting his community.

Against the backdrop of segregation and racial tension, Otto Hopkins established the Cotton Club in the heart of Santa Barbara. Serving as a vibrant hub for Black culture, the Cotton Club provided a space for artistic expression, entertainment, and community bonding.

Plus, a side trip to find out about Edmund O. Hansen, Santa Barbara's one-year mayor who seemed great (or at least entertaining) but inadvertently helped bring about the end of the Cotton Club.

Join us as we unravel the story of 29-year-old Michael Stephenson, a wanderer who left his home in Chicago a decade ago, only to find himself living on the streets of Santa Barbara. Summers tells us how Michael lost his life one fateful night in August 1985, then became a symbol of the dangers facing the homeless. Meet David Kurtzman and James Tramel, two Northwestern Prep students with complex backgrounds, enrolled at a private school for military service academy applicants.

Don't miss this riveting episode that delves into a true crime story that left a community in shock and forever changed the lives of those involved. Join us as we dissect the details, emotions, and aftermath of this tragic event. Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for more true crime stories that shaped our world. Share your thoughts, theories, and comments below, and hit that notification bell so you never miss an episode! Find us on social media, where our username is always ghoulsguidetosb, or visit our website at http://www.ghoulsguidetosb.com.