another fine property represented by
• Graduate of UCLA School of Law and former attorney (with training in Real Estate law, contracts, estate planning, and tax law)
• Dedicated and highly trained full-time support staff
• An expert in the luxury home market
Dan Encell
“The Real Estate Guy”
Phone: (805) 565-4896
Email: danencell@aol.com DRE #00976141
A classic California Craftsman Cottage with detached twin town-homes completes this recently renovated downtown triplex. Each of the three units has two bedrooms and a bath, plus a private fenced yard, and a dedicated parking space (the front cottage has a garage). The two town-homes are offered vacant and were both previously rented at $4000/ month while the front cottage is occupied month-to-month at $4500/ month.
By Bridget Keon / VOICE
WAGGING
TAILS, FURRY FRIENDS,
AND BARKING COOL COSTUMES will march down State Street when the inaugural Fiesta Dog Parade and Costume Contest makes its debut in downtown Santa Barbara from 11am to 1pm on May 16th. In the spirit of Old Spanish Days Fiesta, this new tradition will unite community members, businesses, nonprofits, and dog lovers.
“I hope that the excitement and anticipation of a really fun and colorful Dog Parade will re-energize everyone who already loves the traditional events that Old Spanish Days is part of,” said El Presidente Colin Hayward. “But, more importantly, the parade will bring new people into our tent and become a permanent part of the festival year after year.”
The first parade on State Street in six years, it will celebrate Santa Barbara’s culture, spirit, and canine pals. It will also kick off Old Spanish Days’ focus on starting new traditions this year, including a poetry contest that is currently accepting submissions and a to-be-announced photography competition.
“My goal is to create interest in Fiesta with segments of the community that may not always feel like they have a natural affiliation,” said Hayward. “We hope to achieve this through the enthusiastic dog-owners of Santa Barbara, as well as our new Fiesta Poetry and Photography contests.”
With dogs and their people dressed in
festive, Spanish-inspired costumes, the parade will travel down the 700 and 800 blocks of State Street before making its way to Canon Perdido and through the Paseo Nuevo Shopping Mall. The parade will be followed by a party featuring music from DJ Darla Bea, vendor tables, and a red carpet experience for the costume contest winners.
There will be a series of prizes administered to participating pups, including Best in Show, Most Fiesta Spirit, Best Group Entry, and Best Wagon or Stroller Decoration. Every pre-registered dog will also receive a commemorative Fiesta bandana.
The parade is family-friendly and organized in collaboration between Old Spanish Days, the City of Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Humane Society, and Paseo Nuevo.
“Our goal is for the dog parade to bring a Fiesta-inspired joy to all dog-lovers early in the year while inspiring these new “Fiesteros” to be long-term participants in all areas of Old Spanish Days in Santa Barbara,” added El Presidente Hayward.
Participation in the Dog Parade is limited and available by advance registration only. The registration deadline is May 13th. For more information and to register visit: sbfiesta.org
By Daisy Scott / VOICE
MELDING MESMERIZING, EXUBERANT,
AND INTROSPECTIVE MOVEMENT with soul-touching live music, choreographer Kyle Abraham remains one of the most prolific creatives in contemporary dance. Nowhere is his imaginative expressiveness more apparent than through his company A.I.M by Kyle Abraham, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary season with Santa Barbara audiences on Tuesday, May 12th.
No stranger to Santa Barbara, A.I.M will return in a UCSB Arts & Lectures presentation to share three captivating works at the Granada Theatre, each accompanied by the music that inspired their creation. Collectively, the three dances provide a comprehensive overview of A.I.M’s powerful range.
“I’d like to think it’s a fun journey for our audiences,” said Abraham on the UCSB Arts & Lectures podcast Air Time. “People can be introduced to the company for the first time and join us on this experience, and people who’ve seen the company in various times, perhaps at UCSB, will be informed of new pathways that our work is taking.”
Abraham currently serves as the Claude and Alfred Mann Endowed Professor in Dance at the University of Southern California’s Glorya Kaufman School of Dance. His professional accolades have included the Princess Grace Statue Award, Doris Duke Award, and a MacArthur Fellowship. He has also choreographed works for the New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and The Royal Ballet, among others.
Theatre, inviting more locals than ever before to share a night of music and motion.
“With this program in particular, I think there’s so much expansiveness in the way that we’re looking at live music, and the way that these three works in particular can play into a house,” said Abraham.
As Artistic Director of A.I.M, Abraham creates works that honor, explore, and engage Black culture and history while honoring diverse perspectives. The company also presents new and established works by other choreographers who have impacted Abraham, touring venues around the world, including numerous visits to UCSB’s Campbell Hall.
Next week, A.I.M will perform at the Granada
Abraham’s flowing, partnerfocused work 2x4 will kick off the evening, showing four dancers who intentionally mirror each other as individuals and interconnected units of support. Art by Devin B. Johnson, which served in part as Abrham’s inspiration for the piece, will illuminate the dancers.
Two baritone saxophones will provide the music, playing a meditative score composed by Shelley Washington. While Abraham originally choreographed the piece for two saxophonists and two dancers, he shared that current events motivated him to emphasize the work’s themes of support by expanding it to include four dancers.
“I was walking through the streets of New York after the election, and I was just, it’s not about any kind of side, but it’s about people needing to just see love and see support,” said Abraham. “And so I started thinking this: I need more dancers. So we made it four dancers, but we still had two musicians, so the title still worked as 2x4. It’s a really fun work that I am really excited to share.”
Building on explorations of love, the program will next launch into If We Were a Love Song, a series of hypnotic and evocative choreography. Abraham began crafting the work to honor the legacy of Nina Simone during the pandemic, remotely working with dancers to cultivate an intimate spark to accompany her legendary sound.
“The duet that you’ll see in that work was made the very first time we were in a space where we could touch,” he explained.
Vocalist Crystal Monee Hall will perform alongside A.I.M dancers, realizing Simone’s passionate, soulful music.
“It’s all set to Nina Simone songs that were meant to be kind of thinking about love in some way,” said Abraham. “And I wanted to think about ideas of vulnerability and ownership of one’s body and self, and the ways in which we can share an exchange of love.”
A burst of energy will conclude the night as six dancers launch onto the stage to perform The Gettin’, set to pianist and producer Robert Glasper’s interpretation of the monumental jazz album We Insist! Max Roach’s Freedom Now Suite. Singer Charenee Wade will provide vocals to round out the eclectic, drum-focused score.
Released by jazz drummer and composer Max Roach 1960, We Insist! relates Black people’s experiences in America, especially during the Civil Rights Movement. Abraham choreographed The Gettin’ in 2014 as part of his residency with New York Live Arts, pairing dance to Glasper’s reimagined arrangements. The result is an electric and impactful dance that is timeless in its history, message, and expression.
For tickets ($50-110 general; $20 UCSB students) visit artsandlectures.ucsb.edu
May 1 - May 31
The first-ever Fiesta Poetry Contest! Share your creative work. SB County residents only. Three age categories. Cash prizes. May has been designated Fiesta Poetry Month! Winners announced in June, readings of the winning poems throughout Fiesta events 2026.
May 31 submission deadline. Scan for More info online!
Register Today for the Fiesta Dog Parade
Saturday, May 16
11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Show off your pup’s personality for a chance to win exciting prizes and bragging rights in our festive costume contest— where creativity, charm, and Fiesta spirit take center stage! Fiesta inspired costumes encouraged. In collaboration with the City of Santa Barbara, Paseo Nuevo Shopping Mall and Santa Barbara Humane.
Registration deadline May 13.
By Isaac Hernández de Lipa / VOICE
THE SOLSTICE DRAGON IS GETTING A NEW
SKIN.
For 26 years, Pali’s Rainbow Dragon has delighted audiences large and small. Ever since it was featured in the 2000 Summer Solstice parade, the 40-foot-long inflatable dragon has popped up and brightened many parties. Now, new life needs to be breathed into this local inflatable favorite.
“The dragon’s coated nylon fabric is now emitting more air than we can put into it,” said Solstice Artistic Director Riccardo Morrison, standing next to the old dragon, inflated one more time before it will be sacrificed.
“It’s actually 60 feet long, if you unravel its wavy body,” shared creator Pali X-Mano (Pali Szilvassy), in his distinct Hungarian accent. He first started creating inflatables back in Budapest, and the dragon is a favorite.
Revived many times with repairs, Summer Solstice earned a grant two years ago, from Santa Barbara Beautiful to reanimate the dragon for the parade’s 50th anniversary. At that time, two new blowers were added and with the help of propping sticks inspired by Salvador Dali’s drawings, the Rainbow Dragon returned.
“There’s no fixing this,” said Morrison. “It has to be redone. The idea is to use it as a pattern and create a new one that’s similar. As
we make the pattern, we can shrink it a little bit, like one third, to get it to where it can have one single blower. The new one will be over 30 feet long. It will still be impressive.”
The new process will be faster than creating an inflatable from scratch, which starts with building a Styrofoam sculpture and adding lines where the seams will go.
Pali, whose inflatables can be rented and have been featured in events from Kentucky to Los Angeles, and even in the film Me Him Her (Max Landis, 2015), is also preparing a handful of previous inflatables for a sculpture garden at Alameda Park after the parade on Saturday, June 20th. This year’s theme is Wave, with a parade start time at noon from Santa Barbara and Ortega streets.
As the rebirth of the dragon gets planned and new, stronger fabric purchased, Summer Solstice is seeking volunteers. “Mention this in the article,” exclaimed Pali, “it’s very important!”
No experience is necessary to participate, other than a desire for fun. If you know how to sew, you can be extra helpful in making the Rainbow Dragon rise from the ashes. And if all goes according to plan, the new dragon will come alive during the first week of June, right before the workshop gets super busy.
“I love the excitement of Summer Solstice,” added Pali, who has created approximately 34 inflatables for the Summer Solstice parade since 1990. “I love people coming into the workshop and then realizing that they’re creative and they can show their work in the parade right away. It’s magic.”
The workshop at 631 Garden St. will open on Saturday, May 16th, with an opening reception from 3 to 6pm. Workshop hours are Wednesday through Friday, 3 to 8pm, and weekends, noon to 6pm.
Register to volunteer or to be part of the workshop and parade at solsticeparade.com
By John Palminteri / Special to VOICE
E-BIKES AND REGULAR
CONVERGED on the Santa Barbara Farmer’s Market Tuesday, ignoring no bicycling signs and causing confusion on State Street.
Bicycle riders were riding in and out of shoppers and vending locations. The Santa Barbara Police were called several times and patrol units were sent to clear up the issue of a large group of bike riders violating the no bicycle rule.
State Street enforcement is based on police staffing availability.
One bystander observed it had been a problem for years, not months, and said, “how else can this be handled, by parents, teachers, community leaders, bike groups, and other types of security staffing?”
SECOND PERFORMANCE ADDED THANKS TO POPULAR DEMAND! ADDED
BY MORTEN LAURIDSEN
CONDUCTED BY JOANNE WASSERMAN
CHRISTOPHER TIN
CONDUCTS A SELECTION OF HIS WORK INCLUDING HIS FINALE FOR PUCCINI’S UNFINISHED OPERA TURANDOT
A MODERN AMERICAN CHORAL COLLABORATIVE
featuring The Choral Society and Orchestra with guest singers from Los Cancioneros Master Chorale and Santa Clarita Master Chorale, soloists Jimmer Bolden, Felipe Prado, Becca Clarke, and Christina Bristow
SUNDAY, MAY 31 / TWO PERFORMANCES 3PM & 7PM
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH, SANTA BARBARA / TICKETS $30 AT SBCHORAL.ORG
Interviews conducted by Bridget Keon, Gabriella Tarantino, & Elizabeth Truong / VOICE
AS THE DRAFT STATE STREET MASTER PLAN MOVES FORWARD FOR PUBLIC COMMENT, VOICE writers took to the streets to ask community members one question: What is your dream for State Street? For some, matters of transportation and vacant businesses loom large, while others focus on the need for public art and activities that will unite the Santa Barbara community.
To review the current proposed State Street Master Plan and updates from the City of Santa Barbara visit statestreet.santabarbaraca.gov Public comments can be emailed to StateStreetMasterPlan@SantaBarbaraCA.gov
“More public art. I would like to see all the empty spaces which are remaining to be used, at least temporarily, to display a lot of art.”
- Eric Saint George
“My dream for it is to be more for the people, for Santa Barbara, because so much of the city is for tourists. For just more community.” - April Marie
“I think the main thing is just the getting the motorcycles that call themselves e-bikes
off the street.”
- Kim Richardson
BRINGING TOGETHER THOUGHT LEADERS IN SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, Unite to Light is hosting a symposium on Friday, May 15th. The Illuminating Impact Symposium is half-day event at UCSB’s Institute for Energy Efficiency.
The summit will bring together influential leaders to share their ideas on increasing access to clean and reliable power to health, education, disaster response, economic mobility, and climate resilience.
The event will feature the following speakers: CEO Olasimbo Sojinrin (Solar Sisters), Program Director Cassie Roach (Safe Parking Santa Barbara), Founder and CEO Akon Mugabwe (Winko Solar), mothers and midwives in Bangladesh (UNFPA), and Director ovvf Internal Communications Marco Sanchez (World Central Kitchen).
To register, visit unitetolight.org/events/illuminatingimpact
“I like State Street right now. I like that there’s no cars, you can just walk wherever, it’s very accessible. I would say maybe add more leisurely places to sit throughout State Street... Or add some more places that you can bring family...more things that you can do with groups of people rather than going on a date or going shopping.” - Dorie Minnix
“My dream for lower state would be to return it to its original form. How it was in the mid to late ‘90s, up until maybe the early 2000s.”
“That it stays closed to cars, but I do want the trolley back. Yeah. That’s my dream.” - Julie Spalluto
- Ryan Paul Reyes
“I want to see them continue and build on the pedestrianonly nature of State Street.
- Brian Walters
“My dream for State Street is a place where the community can really come together and represents the diversity of the community. I think it would be really cool if there were art installations... I like the fact that no cars can go on it. I would keep that and make it much more walkable and beautiful in its flowers and art.” - Sally Shapiro
“My dream for State Street is for it to be a collaborative area that has multi uses for business, for leisure, for entertainment, for music, for art.”
- Danielle Methmann
AN ARCHIVE OF HANDWRITTEN STORIES THAT CONNECTS STRANGERS
is a part of an interactive project called The Strangers Project, binge presented by Art & Soul Gallery in partnership with Friends of State Street.
The Strangers Project, a globally recognized archive of handwritten stories that connects strangers through reflection, empathy, and shared voice, will be on display at Art & Soul Gallery during May.
The installation invites visitors into an intimate, participatory experience that transforms the gallery into a space of human connection and collective storytelling.
This exhibition marks the launch of Space to Share, a pilot initiative by Friends of State Street exploring shared space through experiential art. Beginning at Art & Soul, the program highlights how collaboration can expand audiences, activate place, and cultivate vibrant, layered cultural destinations. Art & Soul Gallery is located at 1323 State St.
THE HARRIET MILLER YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD SCHOLARSHIP has been awarded to Rocio Vejar Montor by the Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association, in collaboration with the City of Santa Barbara’s Youth Council. Santa Barbara Mayor Randy Rowse presented the award on April 27th at a ceremony on the City Hall steps.
“Rocio embodies the heart, drive, and vision of our city’s next generation of leaders,” the selection committee noted.
Vejar Montor is a standout senior at Santa Barbara High School and was selected for her rare combination of academic rigor
and selfless community investment.
The award is presented annually to a high school senior who exemplifies an extraordinary spirit of leadership and civic duty. It honors the enduring legacy of the late former Mayor Harriet Miller, whose lifelong dedication to fostering youth engagement helped shape the fabric of the Santa Barbara community.
During her tenure at SBHS, Vejar Montor achieved and maintained a remarkable 4.4 GPA while enrolled in challenging curriculum. She also contributed 685 hours of volunteer service to local organizations. Her involvement includes serving with the SBHS Associated
FOLLOWING A LEAD ON A STOLEN CAR, Santa Barbara Police officers were dispatched to City Lot 11, located in the 500 block of Anacapa Street to investigate, on May 1st.
Upon arrival, officers met with the vehicle owner and obtained a description of the stolen vehicle, which was broadcast to officers in the area. A short time later, additional patrol officers located the vehicle driving nearby and followed it as it returned into City Lot 11, the same location from which it had been stolen.
The vehicle was occupied by two adult males. After parking, both individuals exited the vehicle and began walking away from the area. Officers quickly contacted both subjects and took them into custody without incident.
The suspects were identified as Blanton Hamdan, 33, and Jamarco Solitaire, 43. Of Santa Barbara. The stolen vehicle was recovered and returned to its owner.
Hamdan and Solitaire were later booked at the Santa Barbara County Jail for vehicle theft and additional narcotics-related charges.
EL 1 DE MAYO DE 2026, aproximadamente a las 9:20 a.m., oficiales del Departamento de Policía de Santa Bárbara fueron enviados al Lote Municipal 11, ubicado en la cuadra 500 de la calle Anacapa, en respuesta a un reporte de un vehículo robado.
Al llegar, los oficiales se entrevistaron con el propietario del vehículo y obtuvieron una descripción del mismo, la cual fue difundida a los oficiales en el área. Poco tiempo después, oficiales adicionales de patrulla localizaron el vehículo circulando cerca y lo siguieron mientras regresaba al Lote Municipal 11, el mismo lugar desde donde había sido robado.
El vehículo estaba ocupado por dos hombres adultos. Después de estacionarse, ambos individuos salieron del vehículo y comenzaron a alejarse del área. Los oficiales contactaron rápidamente a ambos sujetos y los detuvieron sin incidentes.
Los sospechosos fueron identificados como residentes de Santa Bárbara: Blanton Hamdan, de 33 años, y Jamarco Solitaire, de 43 años. El vehículo robado fue recuperado y devuelto a su propietario.
Hamdan y Solitaire fueron posteriormente ingresados en la Cárcel del Condado de Santa Bárbara por robo de vehículo y cargos adicionales relacionados con narcóticos.
Student Body, the Ethnic Studies Club, Mission Scholars, and breaking barriers as a member of the SBHS Football Team. She also made contributions to
DEEJAY JOHNSON HAS BEEN WELCOMED as the new Donor Relations Manager for the Pacific Pride Foundation. Within this role, they will bring their 17 years of leadership and community engagement experience to lead special fundraising initiatives and build sponsorship opportunities to help the foundation grow.
DeeJay is also a celebrated performer who uses their art as a manner of connecting with people, known on stage as Vivian Storm. Entering into a role in which bringing people together is a critical part, DeeJay’s experience is rooted in the very authenticity the next chapter requires. pacificpridefoundation.org
BUILDINGS ACROSS SANTA BARBARA COUNTY WILL BE ILLUMINATED BY LIME GREEN LIGHTS throughout May in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. The national theme for this year is “More Good Days, Together,” encouraging individuals to explore what a “good” day looks like.
One in five people experience a mental health condition in any given year, and early intervention can be life-saving. Green is the official color of mental health awareness, and the campaign is meant to foster support, awareness, and community.
To learn more about the County of Santa Barbara Department of Behavioral Wellness, and for more resources and support, visit: countyofsb.org
By Isaac Hernández de Lipa / VOICE
THE FASTEST GROWING SPORT in the United States, with an estimate of 24 million adepts playing last year, is leading a revolution by transforming old Bed, Bath & Beyond stores into “Picklemalls.”
Celebrating its grand opening on Saturday, the old shop at Goleta’s Fairview Shopping Center has been converted into a state-of-the-art indoor seven-court facility. But instead of bath accessories, you’ll find many “kitchens,” the jargon for the NonVolley Zone of a pickleball court.
scheduled for this summer.
Owners Trisha and Ted Guggenheim fell in love with pickleball four years ago in Colorado.
“We were playing tennis and had people playing pickleball next to us,” said Trisha to VOICE. “Ted whipped out some paddles, and I said, ‘I guess I’ll try it,’ and that was the end of it. It’s very addictive; it’s so social, it’s a great way to meet people, all ages, all abilities.”
The new facility is part of the fastgrowing Picklr franchise with 375 locations nationwide. Membership includes access to all Picklr clubs, along with court reservations, leagues, tournaments, and clinics. The Picklr Santa Barbara is offering discounted Founder Memberships. But the location is also open for walk-ins, tournaments, corporate events, and private rentals. There’s already a UCSB family program
“If you’d told me two years ago when we moved to Santa Barbara that we’d be running a pickleball court, I would have said you were crazy,” said Ted, who is also a successful software developer and music promoter. “But the momentum started; once I have an idea, I tend to not let go. You need a lot of space to make it work. What is good about this place is that it’s not too big. We have seven courts. It feels good, whether you have two courts or all seven occupied. We also created a lot of spaces for people to move around and hang out.”
The nearly 24,000 square foot facility features seven professional-grade courts, including championship-sized courts, all acoustically engineered to enhance play and reduce noise.
What if you’ve never played pickleball?
“You should give it a try,” said Ted. “The reason it’s so appealing is that it’s easy to learn; within an hour you can feel like you know what you’re doing. Once you get to a high-beginning level, it becomes addictive, because of the exercise, the endorphins… and it’s a lot of fun. There are a lot of smiles. It doesn’t have to be competitive. I’m not that competitive. I enjoy being with people on the court. Trisha’s much more competitive than me.”
To learn more visit thepicklr.com/location/santa-barbara
Santa Barbara Beautiful is now soliciting nominations in nine categories for their 61st awards program which will take place on Sunday, September 27th.
by Isaac Hernández de Lipa
Each year, Santa Barbara Beautiful calls on our community to recognize and show appreciation for their neighbors who work to amplify the city’s natural beauty. At the Annual Awards, the results of their beautification efforts are recognized.
Property award categories have been adapted to meet the real and growing importance of climate change and the need for environmental stewardship.
Learn more at www.sbbeautiful.org
1. Street Address:
ZIP (required):
Category (s):
Property Owner or Business Name:
What makes this a winning nomination? 6. Submitted by: _______________________ Telephone/email: _______________________
1. Multi-Family Residence ~ Condos, Retirement Facilities... Sustainable (ie: water or energy saving) building elements? How does it fit in or enhance the streetscape?
2. Single Family Home, Small Lot (<1/2 acre) ~ Sustainable (ie: water or energy saving) building elements? Does it fit in and/or enhance the streetscape?
3. Single Family Home, Large Lot (>1/2 acre) ~ Sustainable building elements? Does it fit in and/or enhance the streetscape?
4. Mixed-Use Building ~ Commercial & Residential in one building; Sustainability elements? Does it fit in and/or enhance the streetscape? Does it have *LEED Certification?
5. Commercial Building ~ (Public Buildings, Hotels, B&Bs): Sustainability elements?
Does it fit in and/or enhance the streetscape? Does it have *LEED Certification?
6. Commercial Sign
7. Art in Public Places ~ Murals, Sculpture, etc... (Hugh & Marjorie Petersen Award for Art in Public Places)
8. Historic Revitalization: Recently revitalized gardens and/or buildings with a historic character
9. Santa Barbara Commons: Public Open Space ~ Parks; Medians; Parkways; Streetscapes: places we gather to build community and connect with nature.
• There is no limit to the number of entries a person may submit.
• Winners are selected by independent judges based on merit, not on the number of nominations.
• The Awards Committee reserves the right to adjust categories depending on the nominations received.
ELIGIBLE PROPERTIES:
• Entries must be visible from the street or via public access.
• Completed projects between Ortega Ridge Rd to Turnpike Rd.
• Properties in ZIP CODES: 93101 • 93103 • 93105 • 93108 • 93109 • 93110
HOW TO ENTER: EMAIL form to: President@SBbeautiful.org MAIL form to: Santa Barbara Beautiful, P.O. Box 2024 Santa Barbara, CA 93120 QUESTIONS? Call: Melinda Mettler at 415-225-8336
By Elizabeth Truong / VOICE
VISITORS, FAMILIES, AND BUSINESSPEOPLE
traveling to San Diego and Chicago can now book nonstop flights from the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA). The service expansion arrived last month, just in time for summer travel plans.
“We don’t have the same capacity [as larger airports], but we also don’t have the same demand, so all of the new routes and flights that get added are reflected by the demand of the community,” said Lauren Gonzales, SBA Airport Marketing Supervisor to VOICE.
SBA brought back service to Chicago for travelers heading to O’Hare International Airport in early April. For the first flight, plane seats were almost at full capacity, reflecting the local demand. Service taking travelers to San Diego International Airport started a couple weeks later.
According to Gonzales, the airline originally pulled nonstop service to San Diego during the COVID-19 pandemic. Similarly, she said outbound flights to
Chicago were halted because of “aircraft availability, staffing, and of course, postpandemic travel.”
“We receive stories from local businesses that have to drive or take the train down to San Diego for business or passengers who want to connect internationally and could do that through San Diego,” Gonzales said.
The airport pulls travel data from the Department of Transportation to understand where people fly or drive. In 2025, more than 600,000 people commuted by car or train between Santa Barbara and San Diego. While not everyone may choose to fly between these destinations, nonstop service was added for around 100,000 flyers. Gonzales said in addition to this data, SBA collects anecdotal stories from travelers to better understand their needs.
Nonstop flights to San Diego and Chicago are ideal for those who travel for leisure purposes, making it accessible for those who look to travel to the East Coast and beyond.
By Elizabeth Truong / VOICE
A COMMUNITY MICROGRID IS COMING to Isla Vista to supply essential facilities with clean backup solar power. The County of Santa Barbara was awarded a $15.3 million grant from the Southern California Edison (SCE) under the statewide Mircogrid Incentive Program. Currently, the county is moving toward requests for proposals (RFP) for design, construction and project management services to take on the task.
“This significant investment reflects our commitment to protecting communities, strengthening resilience, and ensuring that the benefits are felt directly by the people it’s meant to serve,” Supervisor Laura Capps said in a statement. “In Isla Vista, that means reliable power during emergencies, support for essential community spaces, and meaningful opportunities for residents to shape and participate in a clean energy future.”
The microgrid will provide at least 24 hours of backup power to facilities such as the Isla Vista Sheriff’s Office, Isla Vista Neighborhood Clinic, and the Isla Vista Community Center, along with 120 residential and 50 non-residential customers. Solar-powered electricity will operate during emergencies and severe weather events. There are no expected changes to residents’ electricity bills.
According to Kelsey Gerckens Buttitta, Santa Barbara County Communications Manager, there are no current plans to expand this project beyond its present scope.
“This is a unique project in its funding source and scope. Once completed, if we see there are benefits to the County and residents, we may explore other locations where these types of systems make sense,” Buttitta said.
With grant funds secured, the county will soon begin accepting RFPs to proceed with joint-SCE technical evaluation studies. After this, the project will move toward development. www.countyofsb.org/5035/Microgrids
“San Diego is a great option for folks wanting to connect down to Mexico or Hawaii,” Gonzales added. “The destinations themselves are popular, but it’s also a great option for people to connect to further destinations across the country and the globe.”
SBA only offers domestic flights due to its size. The airport is approximately 952 acres with five gates and three runways. It hosts five major airlines including Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, and United. The recent additions of two more direct
flights further grows SBA’s network of flights to 13 domestic destinations, with an average of 26 daily flights. SBA serves more than 1.4 million passengers annually.
“We’re constantly talking to [the airlines] and meeting with them to explore new destinations,” said Gonzales. “We’re not expecting any immediate new routes to come along anytime soon, but that can change anytime. Sometimes airlines surprise us with new routes.” FlySBA.com
MAILED BALLOTS ARE ARRIVING to registered voters’ mailboxes the first week of May. For the June 2nd, 2026 Statewide Direct Primary Election, residents are encouraged to complete and submit their ballots early to the United States Postal Service. Ballots must be signed and postmarked by election day in order for votes to be counted.
Starting on May 4th, official ballot drop boxes will be available for voters to drop off their ballots. These boxes are available in 18 different locations and will remain open until 8pm on election day.
For voting information, visit www.countyofsb.org/164/Elections
LAS BOLETAS DE VOTACIÓN por correo serán enviadas por correo durante la primera semana de mayo. Los votantes registrados en el condado de Santa Bárbara deberían haber recibido su Guía de Información para el Votante del Condado para las elecciones primarias directas estatales del 2 de junio de 2026 a finales de abril y recibirán su boleta de votación por correo a principios de mayo.
Se recomienda a los votantes que devuelvan su boleta completada tan pronto como sea posible utilizando el sobre de devolución con franqueo pagado que se incluye. El sobre de devolución debe estar firmado por el votante. Las boletas devueltas por correo deben tener el sello postal a más tardar el día de las elecciones, el 2 de junio de 2026. El Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos recomienda enviar las boletas por correo con anticipación para garantizar su entrega oportuna a la Oficina Electoral para su procesamiento y conteo.
Las urnas oficiales para las boletas estarán disponibles las 24 horas del día a partir del 4 de mayo hasta las 8:00 p. m. el día de la elección, el 2 de junio de 2026. Se alienta a los votantes a utilizar una de las 18 urnas oficiales ubicadas en todo el condado para entregar su boleta. Se proporciona una lista de las ubicaciones de las urnas oficiales en el condado de Santa Bárbara en la boleta enviada por correo y está publicada en Elecciones | Condado de Santa Bárbara, CA - Sitio web oficial.
Los votantes pueden verificar la exactitud de los datos de su registro, incluso su dirección residencial y postal en el sitio web de la Secretaría de Estado de California o en el sitio web de la Oficina Electoral del Condado de Santa Bárbara. Para actualizar su dirección u otros datos de su registro o para que los ciudadanos elegibles se registren para votar, visite el sitio web de Registro para Votar de la Secretaría del Estado de California. Si desea obtener más información, visite sbcvote.com o llame a la oficina de Elecciones del Condado de Santa Bárbara al 800-722-8683.
RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE IN TECHNICAL PRECISION, MUSICAL INTERPRETATION, AND PERFORMANCE, the Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation (PASF) celebrated the winners of its 2026 Music Competition following a final concert last week. All finalists received monetary awards totaling $21,000 across all divisions and placements to support their continued music education.
“The level of artistry continues to grow each year, both in depth and maturity,” said Deborah Bertling, PASF Board President. “We’re seeing musicians arrive not only with strong technical skills, but with a real sense of musical voice and expression.”
In the Junior Instrumental Division, first place was awarded to pianist Chloe Emma Silva, a young artist with international performance experience, including appearances in Japan and training with universitylevel faculty. Second place went to violinist Seungyoo Kim-Jung, a returning PASF award finalist and accomplished youth symphony concertmaster. Pianist Leon Guo and violinist Skylar Abello received Honorable Mentions.
JESSICA TADE has been announced as the new executive director for the California Nature Art Museum (CalNAM). Tade is a local museum and nonprofit leader who has more than a decade of experience. She has served as the deputy director of the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum and the executive director of Casa del Herrero. She has also worked as the director of marketing and communications for the SB City College Foundation as well as the Santa Barbara Foundation. Currently, she serves on the California Association of Museums Program Committee and is a board member for the Solvang School Education Foundation. Tade is a three-time graduate of the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she received a PhD in Art History. She has received the Pacific Coast Business Times 40 Under 40 award. calnatureartmuseum.org
In the Junior Vocal
Division, first place was awarded to soprano Nikki Seppala Kurnik, a performer with national recognition in musical theatre competitions who has trained at Kristin Chenoweth’s Broadway Bootcamp. Second place honors were shared by sopranos Aria Bonski Evans, who has trained at the Boston University Tanglewood Institute, and Amelia Checketts, who has performed in advanced vocal ensembles and summer conservatory programs.
In the Senior Instrumental Division, first place was awarded to violist Lydia Plaut, a professionally trained musician with degrees in performance and pedagogy from leading conservatories and orchestral experience including major festival fellowships. Second place went to pianist Noelle Hadsall, with pianist Annabelle Zhang receiving an Honorable Mention.
A distinguished panel of judged the competition, including former Dean of the Global Academic Program at the Accademia Musicale Chigiana and pianist/composer Antonio Artese; violinist and former Tanglewood concertmaster Brynn Albanese; soprano and past LA Opera peformer Jamie Chamberlin; and concert pianist Robert Koenig. pasfsb.org
CELEBRATING ITS 40TH YEAR OF SUPPORTING STUDENTS AND PUBLIC SCHOOLS in the Santa Barbara Unified School District, the Santa Barbara Education Foundation united community leaders, educators, and supporters last month for a night of fundraising and celebration.
Over $300,000 was raised to support SBEF’s educational programs such as Teacher Grants, Student Grants, and Keep the Beat, including a $100,000 gift from Sara Miller McCune through the Léni Fund supporting the BRAVO! after-school music program, a $10,000 lead gift from the John C. Mithun Foundation, and a $15,000 matching gift announced by keynote speaker Angel Martinez in support of teachers.
“When a community supports its public schools, extraordinary things can happen,” said Vanessa Pelton, SBEF Executive Director. “The Santa Barbara Education Foundation serves as a bridge, connecting the generosity of our supporters with programs that empower teachers and open doors for students.
THE HOME OF THE BELOVED BUTTERFLIES ALIVE! PROGRAM at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, the Sprague Butterfly Pavilion has been nominated for Best Butterfly Garden in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Daily voting is open now through May 11th. The seasonal exhibition opens May 23rd and highlights both immersive guest experience and global conservation partnerships with sustainable butterfly farms in Costa Rica. Votes can be cast daily at 10best.usatoday.com/awards
Together, we are part of a movement shaping Strong Roots Supporting Bright Futures.”
The evening was emceed by Gwyn Lurie, CEO & Executive Editor of the Montecito Journal and CEO & Co-Founder of The Giving List Women. Speaker Dr. Patricia Madrigal of the PEAC Foundation reflected on her organization’s start as a fiscally sponsored program of SBEF. Alejandrina Lorenzano, an AVID and English teacher at Dos Pueblos High School, shared her perspective as a past student who participated in SBEF-supported programs, including PEAC and AVID. Today she continues to receive support from SBEF through Teacher Grants.
“I am standing here today because my village believed in me,” said Lorenzano. “Strong communities do not happen by chance, they are built by people who support and inspire. When you invest in educators, you invest in the communities they build every day.”
Keynote speaker Angel Martinez, former CEO of Deckers Brands, shared his journey as a Cuban immigrant who attended public schools. His remarks underscored the transformative power of public education and the importance of investing in future generations. santabarbaraeducation.org
By Gabriel Lucatero / Casa de la Raza
FOR
PASTOR
GERARDO
MENCHACA,
Casa de la Raza is more than a place. It’s part of his family’s story.
He first walked through its doors at just ten years old, during a time when community organizing and civil rights movements were shaping Santa Barbara’s Latino identity. He remembers participating in school walkouts and, at a young age, learning the importance of dignity, pride, and unity. “Don’t be ashamed of who you are,” he recalls being taught. “Be proud of your heritage.”
That message stayed with him.
His connection to Casa de la Raza runs deep, rooted in generations of family involvement. His mother, Etelvina Menchaca, was a fierce advocate for human rights and began organizing and helping immigrant families after witnessing discrimination firsthand. Her influence shaped his lifelong commitment to service. “I do this because it’s part of my family’s heritage,” he says. “But also because it’s the right thing to do.”
Today, as a pastor, he continues that mission by serving the community’s physical and spiritual needs. Through partnerships with local organizations such as the Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics, Casa de la Raza provides access to medical, dental, and mental health services. It also provides food, guidance, and a safe place for families navigating uncertainty.
The work goes beyond resources. It’s about restoring dignity. “It’s not just a Latino center,” he says. “It’s a place where people are treated like human beings.”
And for him, that’s what truly matters.
lacasafounders.org
By Shelly Leachman, 4.29.26, UCSB Current
TO SUPPORT ITS
UC Santa Barbara’s Walter H. Capps Center for the Study of Ethics, Religion, and Public Life has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Henry Luce Foundation. The grant will fund the center’s five-year project, “Repatriation Futures: Living Tradition, Spiritual Vitality, Best Practices.”
With the grant, the Capps Center aims to further establish its position as a hub for research, community engagement, multigenre storytelling and policy development on the topic of repatriation and its religious significance. The center seeks to help shape the future of repatriation thinking and practice, focusing attention on the spiritual and ethical dimensions of this work in addition to the legal obligations of institutions to return ancestral remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, and items of cultural patrimony.
including with California tribal partners, Native communities across the U.S., and in international settings.
“The Capps Center project will model novel ways of bridging academic- and community-based modes of knowledge generation,” Johnson said. “We aim to establish a new baseline for what counts as engaged scholarship in the study of religion.”
Another core focus of the grant is to deepen relationships with Native nations in California in the context of land management and cultural resource protection. In partnership with a team from UC Irvine, UCSB’s Natural Reserve System (now known system-wide as UC Nature), and the Bishop Paiute Tribe, the Capps Center is developing co-stewardship agreements between the UC and tribal governments to promote best practices within UC Nature and to facilitate collaborative wildfire science and management between tribal, state, and federal governments.
Each year, Santa Barbara Beautiful calls on our community to recognize and honor their neighbors who work to keep Santa Barbara Beautiful.
Use the QR code to submit nominations for these categories and more:
• Multi-Family Residence
• Single Family Home
• Commercial Building •Mixed-Use Building
• Commercial Sign •Public Open Space
• Art in Public Places •Historic Revitalization
“The return of ancestors and sacred objects is as spiritually important as it is morally urgent,” said Greg Johnson, director of the Capps Center and a professor of religious studies. “With promising legal foundations at state, federal and international levels, and with devoted Indigenous practitioners working tirelessly at various scales, this is exactly the right time to commit to the future of repatriation work.”
Johnson and project collaborator Dusty Hoesly, the center’s associate director, will lead a diverse team of fieldleading experts in repatriation, including representatives from the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, the Coastal Band of the Chumash Nation, the Bishop Paiute Tribe, the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma, Hawai’i, and the Naga community of Northeast India. Through relationship building, knowledge sharing, and resource deployment, the project will inform and support repatriation initiatives at and beyond the University of California,
“In the words of one of our core partners, Edward Halealoha Ayau, to say the ‘bones live’ is to invoke a spiritual relationship and a moral obligation to the ancestors who remain in non-Native institutions,” Johnson said.
The grant project builds on the Capps Center’s ongoing repatriation efforts with Indigenous communities. Johnson’s research and advocacy work focus on Native American and Hawaiian religions and law, particularly struggles over burial protection, repatriation, and sacred land. Johnson is a member of the UCSB NAGPRA Oversight Committee, which implements federal and state repatriation laws and ensures legal and ethical compliance and cultural respect in repatriation practices. The Capps Center has hosted several lectures and panel discussions about repatriation in recent years, two of which were also funded through the Luce Foundation.
Printed with permission of UCSB Office of Public Affairs and Communications.
Monday, May 25, 2026 • 11:00 am
SANTA BARBARA CEMETERY, 901 CHANNEL DR, SANTA BARBARA
Veterans, their families, and the community are welcome to join us at the Santa Barbara Cemetery for a free one-hour ceremony as we remember those who gave the greatest sacrifice for our country.
The ceremony will include a patriotic program featuring:
Santa Barbara Choral Society • The Prime Time Band • Gold Coast Pipe & Drum Band Featuring Rear Admiral John Wiegold
www.pcvf.org
THANK
Photos and Stories
SANTA BARBARA NATIVE LAKEY
PETERSON took the title in the Western Australia Margaret River Pro. It’s a seventh career World Surfing League Championship Tour victory for Peterson.
OLD SPANISH DAYS in Santa Barbara is again going to be a spectacular display of dance, community, history, religion and a respectful welcome to all. La Primavera on Saturday night was a fundraiser to pay for the many free events, taking place between August 5th to 9th.
SANTA BARBARA AND MONTECITO DRIVERS are getting used to a temporary signal at Hermosillo Dr. and Coast Village Road where more freeway traffic is arriving due to a ramp closure in the evolving construction zone. At times there’s increased congestion that this may help manage.
CAUGHT! Minutes after hearing of a stolen Mitsubishi with out-of state-plates in downtown Santa Barbara, police units spotted it and swarmed the vehicle in a parking lot on Anacapa St. Two suspects were detained at gunpoint as part of the investigation around 10:20am.
SANTA BARBARA POLICE are searching for a suspect who reportedly got cash from Domino’s at 617 N Milpas St. and left towards Nopal St. The crime occurred just before 10pm on Monday night. Officers were on foot in the area looking for evidence.
OPERATION CLEAN
SWEEP on Saturday had volunteer divers and dockside workers on hand, bringing in 2,200 pounds of junk from Marina 4 according to the Santa Barbara Waterfront Department. Partners included Salty Dog Dive Service, dockside volunteers from SB Channelkeeper, Stanford Club of SB, and the SB Sail and Power Squadron.
A FRESH LOOK to downtown Santa Barbara on State Street is advanced after a draft plan is supported by the Santa Barbara City Council. Public comments are still being taken. The flexible plan favors bikes and shuttles down the middle and pedestrians and outside dining by the buildings. The return of two way traffic throughout the multi-block district is not in the plan.
THE RANCHEROS VISITADORES (“The Visiting Ranchers”) started their annual ride with a parade through Solvang Saturday. It is an exclusive, invitation-only men’s riding group founded in 1929–1930 by Santa Barbara community leaders to honor California’s historic ranching traditions. They hold an annual week-long, 60-mile trek through the Santa Ynez Valley. About 750 riders were blessed at Mission Santa Ines. The ceremony included resident and actress Bo Derek as a host and a financial donation of $166,000 to The
Barbara, supporting the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center.
A NEW COMMUTER TRAIN SERVICE has started in Ventura and Santa Barbara County. It is part of a plan to ease traffic on Highway 101 along the coast. This is in coordination with a freeway widening project underway that will add another lane in each direction. It has been timed to get workers to Santa Barbara and Goleta about 8am.
John Palminteri is a veteran news reporter and anchor for Newschannel 3-12 TV and both KJEE and KCLU radio in Santa Barbara/Santa Maria/Ventura. Off the air, he’s often bringing his smile and positive energy to the microphone at fundraisers and civic events. John’s social media presence has one of the largest followings in Santa Barbara, and this page has the weekly highlights. Twitter: @JohnPalminteri • Instagram: @JohnPalminteriNews www.facebook.com/john.palminteri.5
THE EL PASEO WAS FILLED WITH THE SOUNDS OF FLAMENCO, as the festivities of La Primavera began the grand promenade of Old Spanish Days. The festive night featured the first official performances by 2026 Spirit of Fiesta Jenna Ramirez and 2026 Junior Spirit of Fiesta Penny Hernandez, captivating an enthusiastic audience. El Presidente Colin Hayward presided over the event, which took place over the weekend at the historic El Paseo Restaurant.
Master of Ceremonies John Palminteri relaxed and cajoled the gathering into an invocation of Fiesta. Father Larry Gosselin, the newly named Poet Laureate of Fiesta, gave a poetic prayer.
The evening’s banquet was filled with music, good food, and dance as members of the community came together in celebration and support, raising vital funds for the free public events that Old Spanish Days proudly presents each summer.
The evening concluded with a spirited Sevillanas performance featuring past Spirits of Fiesta alongside owners of several local dance studios, who gave
back to the community by sharing their artistry with the next generation. They were accompanied in exceptional performances by Andres Vadin on guitar and Flamenco singer Pepele Mendez.
Old Spanish Days Fiesta 2026 will take place August 5th to 9th, 2026.
DEFINING COUNTRY ROCK, Jim Messina will perform at the Lobero Theatre as a performance presented by Earl Minnis Presents and the Lobero Theatre Foundation. Messina is best known locally as part of the former duo, Loggins and Messina. The concert will take place on Tuesday, May 12th, at 7:30pm.
Messina’s legacy spans five decades and includes three super groups, a vibrant solo career, and scores of producing and engineering credits. The show highlights Messina’s musical career over the decades, including Buffalo Springfield, Poco, and Loggins & Messina.
While acting as producer/audio engineer for Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Buffalo Springfield, Messina ultimately joined the band as its bass player. When “the Springfield” disbanded in 1968, Jim and fellow bandmate Richie Furay formed Poco. With Jim on lead guitar, Poco defined a new musical genre, Country Rock. After three successful albums, Messina signed as an independent producer with Columbia and in 1970, they asked him to work with an unknown Kenny Loggins. While preparing Kenny for a record and touring, the two discovered how well they worked together and Jim agreed to sit in on Kenny’s first album. Kenny Loggins with Jim Messina Sittin’ In, released in 1971 birthed an “accidental duo.” Over the next seven years, Loggins & Messina released eight hit albums and sold over 16 million albums. They became one of rock’s most successful recording duos ever before going their separate ways.
With his new band, The Road Runners, Messina has released his latest live album Here, There & Everywhere. Tickets for Jim Messina are on sale now at Lobero.org and at the Lobero Box Office 805.963.0761.
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By Harlan Green, Special to VOICE, May 1, 2026
INFLATION IS RISING AGAIN, to no one’s surprise, from its l2.3 percent low in April 2025 when Trump first announced his worldwide tariff hikes, to 3.5 percent in March this year. The reasons is clear; inflation is rising on Trump’s watch, not Biden’s.
By Harlan Green
combat inflation; raising interest rates at the same time as Biden succeeded in lowering the federal debt by raising corporate taxes (instead of cutting taxes) to counter the huge influx of government money injected into the economy ($5 trillion) from Biden’s bipartisan Infrastructure, Inflation Reduction and CHIPS Acts.
And inflation almost never comes down without another recession. This is verified in the above graph of Federal Reserve’s preferred Personal Consumption Expenditure price index from 1980. The gray bars are the five recessions since 1980, and each clearly shows the beginning of the sharp downward move of prices in the PCE index.
The only time prices have come down without a recession since 1980 was during President Biden’s term—from its high in June 2022 of +7 percent to slightly above 3 percent at the end of his term.
Biden could do this because the Fed used its best tool to
Please call for current rates: Russell Story, 805-895-8831
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debt instead of reducing it. Recessions (gray bars) occurred in 1980, 1981, 1990, and 2008-09, all during Republican administrations. The short 2020 recession happened because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This is an unnecessary inflation surge, in other words. It’s because of multiple wars being fought and a Republican congress that will not curb a president who doesn’t care about the costs and harm he is doing to Americans and the American economy.
The bills were passed to inaugurate the biggest modernization of the U.S. economy since the Great Depression that employed a record number of workers.
So it is possible to bring down inflation without a recession. And there is substantial harm, especially to working Americans who face higher prices for basic necessities, such as gas and healthcare, for prolonging this inflation surge.
What had caused the five recessions since 1980? Republican administrations cut taxes without paying for them, ballooning the federal
Harlan Green © 2026 Follow Harlan Green on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HarlanGreen
Harlan Green has been the 18-year Editor-Publisher of PopularEconomics. com, a weekly syndicated financial wire service. He writes a Popular Economics Weekly Blog. He is an economic forecaster and teacher of real estate finance with 30-years experience as a banker and mortgage broker. To reach Harlan call 805-4527696 or email editor@populareconomics.com.
50 + Years Experience - Local 35+ Years
• Floor Leveling
Notice is hereby given that the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) will hold a public hearing on the Draft Fiscal Year 2026/27 Measure A Program of Projects.
Notice is hereby given that the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) will hold a public hearing on the Draft Fiscal Year 2025/26 Measure A Program of Projects on the following date/ time:
10 a.m. Thursday, May 15, 2025
Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors Hearing Room 105 E. Anapamu Street, 4th Floor, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors Hearing Room 105 E. Anapamu Street, 4th Floor, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Details on how to participate remotely will be published on the SBCAG Board of Directors agenda at least 48 hours prior to the meeting online at www.sbcag.org
Details on how to participate remotely will be published on the SBCAG Board of Directors agenda at least 48 hours prior to the meeting online at www.sbcag.org
The SBCAG board must adopt a program of projects identifying all transportation projects to be funded with Measure A revenues for the next five years, FY 25/26 through FY 29/30. The program of projects is scheduled for adoption at the June 19, 2025, SBCAG Board meeting. Only projects that are included in the approved program of projects are eligible for Measure A funding. Measure A revenues available for allocation are estimated to be $257 million during the five-year period with $52 million available in FY 25/26.
The SBCAG board must adopt a program of projects identifying all transportation projects to be funded with Measure A revenues for the next five years, FY 26/27 through FY 30/31. The program of projects is scheduled for adoption at the June 18, 2026, SBCAG Board meeting. Only projects that are included in the approved program of projects are eligible for Measure A funding. Measure A revenues available for allocation are estimated to be $270 million during the five-year period with $50 million available in FY 26/27.
Projects identified to receive Measure A revenues for the five-year period include, but are not limited to, improvements on Highway 101 on the South Coast, Highway 166 Safety and Operational Improvements, streets and roads improvements countywide, bicycle, pedestrian and safe routes to school improvements, interregional transit, and reduced transit fares for the elderly and disabled. For more information about the Measure A Program, please visit SBCAG Measure A webpage at: www.sbcag.org/measure-a
PARTICIPATION NOTICE
• Quality Remodeling
• Foundation Replacements
• Foundation Repairs
• Earthquake Retrofitting
• Retaining Walls
• French Drains - Waterproofing
• Site Drainage Systems
• Underpinnings - Caissons
• Structural Correction Work
• Concrete Driveways
• Virtual Building Inspections
805.698.4318 William J. Dalziel Lic#B311003 – Bonded & Insured BillJDalziel@gmail.com WilliamDalziel.work
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Santa Barbara will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, during the afternoon session of the meeting which begins at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, 735 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, for the consideration of the renewal of the Wildland Fire Suppression Assessment District and the levying and collection of assessments to fund the cost of wildland fire prevention services within the District for Fiscal Year 2026-27.
On April 14, 2026, the City Council adopted Resolution of Intention No. 2026-023, declaring its intention to hold this hearing (hereinafter referred to as the “Assessment Hearing”) and to consider renewal of the Wildland Fire Suppression Assessment District. All interested or affected property owners will be afforded the opportunity to be heard by the City Council at the Assessment Hearing. Written comments are also welcome up to the time of the hearing and should be addressed to the City Council via the City Clerk’s Office, P.O. Box 1990, Santa Barbara, CA 931021990, or by sending them electronically to Clerk@SantaBarbaraCA.gov.
The total cost of the Wildland Fire Suppression Assessment District is estimated to be $351,522 for Fiscal Year (FY) 2027. This cost results in a proposed assessment rate of $106.20 per single-family equivalent benefit unit in the Foothill Zone and $131.69 in the Extreme Foothill Zone for Fiscal Year (FY) 2027. Parcels located within the assessment area are assessed based upon their receipt of special benefits from the services over and above general benefits conferred on real property or to the public at large. The Assessments include a provision for an annual increase equal to the change in the Los Angeles Area Consumer Price Index (CPI), not to exceed 4% per year without a further vote or balloting process. The change in the CPI for 2024-2025 is 3.01%.
An updated Engineer’s Report for the Wildland Fire Suppression Assessment District has been prepared and was preliminarily approved by the City Council on April 14, 2026. The Council will consider final approval of the report during the Assessment Hearing. The updated Engineer’s Report is available for review by contacting rdiguilio@santabarbaraca.gov or mvontillow@santabarbaraca.gov.
Projects identified to receive Measure A revenues for the five-year period include, but are not limited to, improvements on Highway 101 on the South Coast, Highway 166 Safety and Operational Improvements, streets and roads improvements countywide, bicycle, pedestrian and safe routes to school improvements, interregional transit, and reduced transit fares for the elderly and disabled. For more information about the Measure A Program, please visit SBCAG Measure A webpage at: www.sbcag.org/measure-a.
Comments on the Draft Fiscal Year 2025/26 Measure A Program of Projects may also be submitted in writing to be received by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Written comments can be submitted via U.S. Postal Service to 260 N. San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93110; or electronically by emailing info@sbcag.org
SBCAG is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for these meetings. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodation requests should be made 48 hours in advance of public meetings to SBCAG at (805) 600-4477.
Comments on the Draft Fiscal Year 2026/27 Measure A Program of Projects may also be submitted in writing until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Written comments can be submitted via U.S. Postal Service to 260 N. San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93110; or electronically by emailing info@sbcag.org.
SBCAG is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for these meetings. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodation requests should be made 48 hours in advance of public meetings to SBCAG at (805) 600-4477.
On Thursday, May 28, 2026 an agenda with all items to be heard on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, including the public hearing to consider this levy, will be available at City Hall, 735 Anacapa Street, and at the Central Library. Agendas and Staff Reports are also accessible online at www.SantaBarbaraCA.gov/CAP. The agenda includes instructions for participation in the meeting. If you wish to participate in the public hearing, please follow the instructions on the posted Agenda.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need auxiliary aids or special assistance to gain access to, comment at, or participate in this meeting, please contact the City Administrator’s Office at 805-564-5305. If possible, notification at least 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements in most cases. Specialized services, such as sign language interpretation or documents in Braille, may require additional lead time to arrange.
(SEAL)
/s/
Sarah Gorman, MMC
City Clerk Services Manager May 4, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT:
(805) 682-4304 chris@suncoastrealestate.com www.chrisagnoli.com
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT:
The following Limited Liability Company is doing business as GROUNDLESS at 230 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. FOURTH WINDOW at 230 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on April 24, 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).
Insertion Date: Print:5.8.26 Digital included 5.6.26 6.32”x2 col; $60.42
FBN No. 2026-0001093. Published May 1, 8, 15, 22, 2026.
5.8.26 Local Coastal Plan amendment. zoning airport parcel. Norma Welche
The following Individual is doing business as TREEHOUSE DISTRIBUTION at 5662 Calle Real #136, Goleta, CA 93117. CHRISTOPHER WILLINGHAM at 5662 Calle Real #136, Goleta, CA 93117. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on May 1, 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. 2026-0001179. Published May 8, 15, 22, 29, 2026.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Santa Barbara will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, during a regular meeting which begins at 2:00 P.M. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, 735 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara. The hearing is to consider a request for a Local Coastal Plan Amendment and a Zoning Map Amendment to amend the zoning for a 0.78 acre portion of the Santa Barbara Airport property from A-A-O/S-D-3 (Aircraft Approach and Operation/Coastal Zone) to the A-F/S-D-3 (Airport Facilities/Coastal Zone).
You are invited to attend this hearing and address your verbal comments to the City Council. Written comments are also welcome up to the time of the hearing, and should be addressed to the City Council via the City Clerk’s Office via email at Clerk@ SantaBarbaraCA.gov, or by mail at P.O. Box 1990, Santa Barbara, CA 931021990.
Public comment may be given in person at the meeting or remotely via Zoom. Members of the public who wish to give public comment remotely may do so by completing the Zoom registration at the URL provided on the front page of the agenda.
On Thursday, May 28, 2026, an Agenda with all items to be heard on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, will be available at City Hall, 735 Anacapa Street, and at the Central Library. Agendas and Staff Reports are also accessible online at http://www.santabarbaraca.gov/CAP. The Agenda includes instructions for participation in the meeting. If you wish to participate in the public hearing, please follow the instructions on the posted Agenda.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need auxiliary aids or services or staff assistance to attend or participate in this meeting, please contact the City Administrator’s Office at 5645305. If possible, notification at least 48 hours prior to the meeting will usually enable the City to make reasonable arrangements. Specialized services, such as sign language interpretation or documents in Braille, may require additional lead time to arrange. (SEAL)
/s/ Caitlin Colyer Deputy City Clerk April 29, 2026
The Santa Barbara City Council meets most Tuesdays at 2pm • To learn more about the council and other City department meetings, visit www.santabarbaraca.gov
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT:
The following Limited Liability Company is doing business as BLUE SKIES M.H.P. at 4280 Calle Real Road, Office, Santa Barbara, CA 93110. BLUPAC INVESTMENTS II LLC at P.O. Box 50339, Santa Barbara, CA 93150. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on April 10, 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. 2026-0000936. Published April 17, 24, May 1, 8, 2026.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT:
The following Individual is doing business as COOKIE TABS at 407 Ventana Ct., Vandenberg Space, CA 93437. ALISON JULIA T SATTIN 407 Ventana Ct., Vandenberg Space, CA 93437. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on April 6, 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. 2026-0000897. Published April 17, 24, May 1, 8, 2026.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT:
The following Individual is doing business as UNICORN CLOTHING at 924 San Andres St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. JAMA L HASHBARGER at 5555 S Elmwood St, Littleton, CO 80120. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on April 10, 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. 2026-0000941. Published April 17, 24, May 1, 8, 2026.
The Goleta City Council meets biweekly on Tuesdays at 5:30pm • To learn more about the council and other City department meetings, visit www.cityofgoleta.org
The Carpinteria City Council meets on the second and fourth Monday of the month at 5:30pm • To learn more about other City departments visit www.carpinteriaca.gov
The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors meets most Tuesdays at 9am • To learn more about other County departments visit www.countyofsb.org
The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) generally meets on the third Thursday of the month at 10am · SBCAG is a regional board of 13 elected officials representing all eight cities and the County · visit www.sbcag.org
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE – CHANGE OF NAME, CASE NUMBER : 26CV02076 Petitioner: Venera Gabriela Radu filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Venera Gabriela Radu to PROPOSED NAME: Gabriela Radu. 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. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: June 15, 2026; Time: 10:00 am; Dept.: 5; ROOM: [ ] other (specify): at the: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the courts website. To find your courts website, go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-my-court.htm.) 3 a. [X] A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks before the date set for hearing on the petition in a newspaper of general circulation: [x] (for resident of this county) printed in this county: VOICE MAGAZINE. Date: 04/17/26 /s/: Colleen K. Sterne , Judge of the Superior Court. Legal #26CV02076 Pub Dates: April 24, May 1, 8, 15, 2026.
DISCOVER THE TRAGEDY THAT INSPIRED one of history’s greatest plays when the UCSB Carsey-Wolf Center hosts a free screening of Hamnet, a reimagining of William Shakespeare’s life, at 7pm on Thursday, May 14th. John Carroll University English Professor Jean E. Feerick will join to discuss the film. RSVP at carseywolf.ucsb.edu
Landscape Transformation • Short film made by SB Botanic Garden with panel • Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden • Free • 5:45-6:30pm Th, 5/7. Zoot Suit with Live Orchestra
• Celebrate the 1981 film Zoot Suit, gala in the Music Building Courtyard after first performance • UCSB’s Lotte Lehmann Concert Hall • Free, register: music.ucsb.edu/events/calendar • 7pm Fr, 5/8 & Sa, 5/9.
An Evening with Rea Tajiri • Screening of History and Memory: For Akiko and Takashige and Wisdom Gone Wild, followed by a talk by filmmaker Rea Tajiri • UCSB Carsey-Wolf Center • Pollock Theater • Free, RSVP: carseywolf.ucsb.edu • 7pm Tu, 5/12. Hamnet • Director Chloé Zhao’s re-imagining of William Shakespeare’s personal life, discussions with Prof. Jean Feerick • UCSB’s Pollock Theater • Free, RSVP: carseywolf.ucsb.edu • 7pm Th, 5/14.
By Gabriella Tarantino / VOICE
CELEBRATE A HISTORYDEFINING INTERSECTION
OF CULTURE AND FASHION
when Teatre Caló and UCSB Department of Music present a screening of the 1981 film Zoot Suit, set to a live orchestra in Lotte Lehmann Concert Hall at 7pm on Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th.
Free and open to the public, the two-day event is the third, and potentially final, annual production of this emblematic narrative about Latino life in America.
“I think the goal at the beginning was to produce this story and narrative every year,” said Teatre Caló founder Mayra Gomez-Lambrada.
“But ultimately I think the organization has grown into being an organization that just puts up Latino work as a whole, and I think this might be farewell to Zoot Suit for a while. We’re ready to produce new works by new Latino artists.”
Directed by Luis Valdez, Zoot Suit tells the story of Henry Reyna and The Sleepy Lagoon case, the unjust trial and wrongful conviction of 17 Mexican teenagers that sparked ten nights of violent riots throughout Los Angeles’ Latino neighborhoods in June 1942. The film is adapted from the stage play by the same name.
This year, a special gala will take place in the UCSB music building courtyard following Friday’s performance, featuring pan dulces, refreshments, and live music from the merengue group Los Angelitos Del Mambo. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their finest zoot suit attire—long tailored coats, baggy pants, and wide brim hats—and stay until the end of the night for a Best Dressed Competition with prizes.
way, and bringing them to life in a new way is always a fun creative challenge,” added Gomez-Lambrada. “But I think aside from that, interacting with this film in a new capacity there’s always new things that you can see and new things to appreciate.”
The emergence of the zoot suit, popularized by African American communities and later donned by Filipino and Latino youth, coincided with the beginning of World War II. Deemed a waste of fabric by the US War Production Board, these flashy outfits came to be associated with an attitude of anti-patriotism by law enforcement and white American culture who also marginalized and discriminated against the young men of color who wore them. Yet even years later, the zoot suit is a symbol of Mexican American identity.
“I hope attendees leave with something to have a conversation about,” said Gomez-Lambrada. “My goal is to uplift stories about Latino narratives. I hope that people can take that and chew on it for a while and just really think about how the film, or whatever content might be watched or reviewed that day, connects to their real life and how that might impact the real interactions they might have with Latinos in everyday life.”
Friday 5/8
CHILDREN
Read with a Dog • Children practice reading to a furry friend • Central Library • Free • 3:30-4:30pm Fr.
DANCE
The Sleeping Beauty by International Ballet Stars
• Granada Theater • $39-99 • granadasb.org • 7:00pm Fri, 5/8
Chaplin • State Street Ballet celebrates film star • Lobero Theatre
• $20-127 • lobero.org • 7:30 pm Fr, 5/8; 2pm Sat, 5/9.
LECTURES/MEETINGS/ WORKSHOPS
Guess Who’s in Town Poetry
Reading • With poets James Crews and Brad Peacock • Central Library • Free • 5:30pm Fr, 5/8.
Sculptural Experimentation
• Create dynamic sculptures • EE Makerspace • $25-30 • exploreecology.org • 6-8pm Fr, 5/8.
MUSIC
Gerardo Ortiz • Regional Mexican singer • Chumash Casino • $65-120 • chumashcasino.com • 8pm Fr, 5/8.
JMSN • Performance presented by We the Beat • SOhO • $32-100 • sohosb.com • 8pm Fr, 5/8.
OUTDOORS
SBC Courthouse Docent Tours
• Free • www.sbcourthouse.org • 10:30am Mon-Fri & 2pm daily.
SPECIAL EVENTS
World Game Day • An afternoon of board games, puzzles, tabletop games from around the world • Central Library • Free • 3:30-4:30pm Fr, 5/8.
Putting Kids First • Fundraiser recognizing Teddy Cabugos as 2026 Hero of the Year • SB Woman’s Club • $275 • sbpal.org/putting-kids-first • 6-9pm Fr, 5/8.
Saturday 5/9
CHILDREN
Crafternoon • Fun crafts, ages 5+
• 10:30–10:45am Sat & Sun.
Carol Metcalf and Friends • Dinner and comedy • Intermezzo Restaurant and Wine Cask Gold Room at El Paseo • $15 • comedybycarol.com • 8pm Sa, 5/9.
LECTURES/MEETINGS/WORKSHOPS
Paint a Spring Mandala • Hands-on meditative workshop • Godmothers Books • $92 • godmothers.com • 2pm Sa, 5/9.
Santa Barbara Go Club • All levels welcome to learn this ancient game • Free • Mosaic Locale, 1131 State St • 805-448-5335 • 11am-3pm Sa.
Omar Velasco with Special Guest Antonio Barret • Modern folk-soul • SOhO • $23 • sohosb.com • 9pm Sa, 5/9.
An Evening with Mads • Violinist Mads Tolling and accordionist Sam Reider • Elverhøj Museum • $40 • elverhoj.org • 7pm Sa, 5/9.
The Winetones • Folk & blues duo • Cold Spring Tavern • Free • 1:304:30pm Sa, 5/9.
Tom Ball and Kenny Sultan • Guitar and harmonica blues, rags • Cold Spring Tavern • 1:30-4:30pm Sa, 5/9.
SB Music Club • Franco-Russian Echoes with an oboist, pianist, and two clarinetists • St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church • Free • 3pm Sa, 5/9.
Concert in the Gallery • Teresa James and the Rhythm Tramps • Studio Channel Islands • $20-75 • studiochannelislands.org • 7:30pm Sa, 5/9.
Quire of Voyces • Choral performance of Rachmaninoff’s AllNight Vigil (Vespers) • St. Anthony’s Chapel • quireofvoyces.org • 3pm Sa, 5/9 & Su, 5/10.
Lauren Monroe: The Magnetic Stage • Americana and percussiondriven rock • Alcazar Theatre • $75150 • thealcazar.org • 8pm Sa, 5/9.
Bioblitz • Picnic Party with crafts and refreshments • Yanonali Community Garden • Free • 2-3pm Sa, 5/9.
“From a logistical standpoint, it’s hard to get people to come out to events, so I think making them fun and interactive in a new
Free registration is recommended. To learn more and register visit music.ucsb.edu/events/calendar
• Explore Ecology Makerspace • $8 • exploreecology.org • 10am-12pm, Sat.
Storytime @ the Sea Center • All ages, free w/admission • SBNature.org
Elings Park Transformation Project • Volunteer to clear invasive weeds and plant seedlings • Elings Park • 12:30-3:30pm Sa, 5/9.
CELEBRATE MOM and those who have acted as a mother figure in your life this weekend as venues across Santa Barbara offer a range of ways to pamper, party, and relax all week long!
Plant for Mom! • Plant in the courtyard, featuring an AXE Pancakes pop-up • Montecito Country Mart • 11am2pm Sa, 5/9.
Mother’s Day Royal Afternoon Tea • Pastries, tea, champagne and more • San Ysidro Ranch’s gardens • $126-174 • (805) 565-1700 • 1-3pm Th, 5/7 through Sa, 5/9.
Mother’s Day Brunch • Champagne Brunch • San Ysidro Ranch • $275-150 • (805) 565-1700 • 10am-1:30pm Su, 5/10.
Bloom & Brunch • Mother’s Day buffet • Finch & Fork • $95-47 • finchandforkrestaurant.com • 11am-4pm Su, 5/10.
Mamma Mia • Special mother-daughter movie night screening of this feel-good ABBA musical • Alcazar Theatre • $7-10 • thealcazar.org • 7pm Fr, 5/15.
Mother’s Day Edition: Pop-Up Opera • Presented by Opera Santa Barbara • SBMA, Front Terrace • Free • 1-2pm Sa, 5/16.
Mother’s Day Orchid Arrangements • Shop signature orchids along with gifts such as jewlery, chocolates and more • Westerlay Orchids, 3504 Via Real, Carpinteria • westerlay.com • Open Mo-Sat.
Birding Walk • Guided by Scot Pipkin & Zach Phillips • Elings Park (Upper parking lot by main office) • Free • 9am Sa, 5/9.
The Architectural Walking Tour
• History of buildings in SB • City Hall steps at De la Guerra Plaza • $20 • afsb.org • 10am, Sat.
Blind Fitness Sea Center Visit
• Inclusive trip for those who are blind/have low vision • Sea Center • Free, blindfitness.org • 9-11am Sa, 5/9.
Inner Peace Day Retreat • A serene private estate with yoga, music, dinner • Montecito • Free, register: sbscchamber.com • 1pm Sa, 5/9.
Mosaic Makers Market • Shop hand-made goods, art and more • Mosaic Locale • 10am-4pm Sa, 5/9.
Spring Picnic • Live music by Conner Cherland • Ganna Walska Lotusland • $35-95 • lotusland.org • 2-4:30pm Sa, 5/9.
Star Party • View the night sky through a 20-inch telescope • SB Museum of Natural History, Palmer
• Godmothers Books • $135 • godmothers.com • 11am Su, 5/10.
Eliza Reid • Discusses her book The First Lady Next Door • Godmothers Books • $23 • godmothers.com • 6pm Su, 5/10.
Empathy Cafe • Practice listening skills and communication • Riviera Theatre, upstairs • Free • 11am-1pm Su.
Songs of Remembrance • Quire of Voyces a capella performance • St. Anthony’s Chapel • $15-20 • quireofvoyces.org • 10pm Su, 5/10 & Mo, 5/11.
Tom Ball and Kenny Sultan • Guitar and harmonica blues, rags, and good time music • Cold Spring Tavern • Free • 1:30-4:30pm Su, 5/10.
Pop-Up Opera • Presented by Opera Santa Barbara • SB Museum of Art • Free • 1pm Su, 5/10.
Sunday Architecture Tour •
Meet at Public Library Plaza at 40 E Anapamu St • Architectural Fdn of SB • $20 • afsb.org • 10am Sun.
Beach Cleanup • Care for our shore with Explore Ecology • Meet in front of the Watershed Resource Center • 10am-12pm Su, 5/10.
Sunday Architecture Tour •
Meet at Public Library Plaza at 40 E Anapamu St • Architectural Fdn of SB • $20 • afsb.org • 10am Sun.
Monday 5/11
INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE BLIND OR HAVE LOW VISION are welcome to participate in an exclusive, private experience before the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center opens to the public from 9 to 11am on Saturday, May 9th. Organized by Blind Fitness, the morning will invite participants and volunteers to discover hands-on exhibits, sensory exploration, and guided learning centered around marine life and coastal ecosystems.
To register, learn more, or volunteer visit blindfitness.org
held at Rancho dos Hermanas • $75140 • ecofarm.regfox.com • 7:30am5pm Mo, 5/11.
Scrabble Club • Louise Lowry Davis Center • All levels/ English/ Spanish • Free • 1-4pm Mon. Parliamo • Italian conversation, all levels • Natural Cafe, 361 Hitchcock Way • Free • parliamo.yolasite.com • 5-6:30pm Mon.
SB Bridge Club • Play bridge, meets daily • 2255 Las Positas Rd • Schedule and RSVP: bridgewebs.com/sbbc542
Tuesday 5/12
Goss Gallery • $12 • sbcaw.org • 6-8pm Tu, 5/12.
ED & DP Roundtable • Discussing the State of the Nonprofits in Santa Barbara County • Hotel Corque • $15 • sbfoundation.org • 9:30-11:30am Tu, 5/12.
Stephanie Fairyington & Jane Ward • Discuss Ugly: A Letter to My Daughter • Godmothers Books • $17 • godmothers.com • 6pm Tu, 5/12.
The Unapologetic Circle • Jenny Calcoen helps women reconnect with themselves • Godmothers Books • $39 • godmothers.com • 4pm Tu, 5/12.
Observatory • Free • 8:30-10pm Sa, 5/9.
Community History Day • Celebrate the cultures of SB Presidio Neighborhood with music and exhibits • El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park • Free • 11am-2pm Sa, 5/9.
Sunday 5/10
CHILDREN
Storytime @ the Sea Center • All ages • Free w/ admission • SBNature.org • 10:30–10:45am Sat & Sun.
Sundays at the Ranch • Fun for the family. Enjoy barn animals and tractor rides • Stow House, 304 N Los Carneros Rd • Free • goletahistory.org • 11am-2pm Sun.
DANCE
Line Dancing • Beginner friendly • Captain Fatty’s • $10 • captainfattys.com • 3-6pm Su, 5/3.
LECTURES/MEETINGS/WORKSHOPS
The Godmother Within • A Mother’s Day flower crown workshop
Baby & Me • Develop your baby’s preliteracy skills, 0-14 months • Central Library • Free • 11-11:30am Mo.
LECTURES/MEETINGS/WORKSHOPS
Science Pub: Restoring Coastal Kelp Forests • Chris Goldblatt discusses the importance of artificial reefs • Dargan’s Irish Pub & Restaurant • Free • 6:30pm Mo, 5/11.
Regenerative Avocados, Citrus, and Strawberries Conference • Field days & panels with farmers & scientists • Day one
COMEDY
Carpinteria Improv Drop-In Class • Learn or practice skills • Alcazar Theatre • $10 • 7pm Tu.
DANCE
A.I.M By Kyle Abraham • Dance celebrating Black culture and expression • UCSB Arts & Lectures • Granada Theatre • $68-110 • granadasb.org • 7:30pm Tu, 5/12.
LECTURES/MEETINGS/WORKSHOPS
Area Meeting • Forum to explore art processes and meaning • Sullivan
Judith Lesner Accessibility Fund Application Workshop • Zoom • Register: fundforsantabarbara.org • 10am Tu, 5/12.
Blended Families, Balanced Estate Plans • Learn about wills, trusts • Zoom • Free, register:
Marquez
By Daisy Scott / VOICE
ONE OF THE GREAT MUSICAL STORYTELLERS
OF OUR TIME, pianist, playwright, and actor Hershey Felder always makes a core promise to his audiences: to tell the truth. Yet, as he voiced to audiences last week at the Santa Barbara debut of his newest play, The Piano & Me, telling the truth can be as frightening as it is critically important — especially now.
Running at the Ensemble Theatre Company’s New Vic through Sunday, May 10th, The Piano & Me focuses on Felder, a stark deviance from his long career of portraying famous composers from history. In short, Felder gave himself the “Hershey Felder Presents” treatment.
Drawing on his pure talent as an actor and pianist, he successfully starred as himself and sixteen other people, including piano teachers, relatives, and strangers who shaped his worldview. The result was vulnerable, raw, and, combined with his breathtaking piano performances, beautiful.
Directly addressing the audience with intimate familiarity, Felder described his childhood as the son of Hungarian and Polish immigrants in 1970s Montreal. As his mother battled cancer, he spent much of his time in his grandparent’s apartment, complete with plastic-wrapped furniture, the constant smell of cabbage, and a radio that, one day when Felder was six years old, played Franz Liszt’s Hungarian Fantasy. The music lit a spark within Felder, whose strong memory and ability to play by ear quickly made him a piano prodigy.
Audiences were transported on a musical voyage as Felder performed the compositions that shaped his childhood, including Mozart’s Rondo Alla Turca and Beethoven’s Für Elise along with well-loved music by Bartók, Bach, Chopin, Rachmaninoff, and Gershwin. While each of these iconic melodies were instantly recognizable, Felder
sbnature.org • 12pm Tu, 5/12.
Chess Club • Louise Lowry Davis Center • All levels/ English/Spanish • Free • 1-4pm Tue.
MUSIC
Jim Messina • Solo acoustic country-rock performance • Lobero Theatre • $49-115 • lobero.org • 7:30pm Tu, 5/12.
SPECIAL EVENTS
School Book Fair • 25% of purchases
to Mountain View Elementary • Chaucer’s Books • 5-7pm Tu, 5/12.
masterfully breathed new life and meaning into each note, caressing the keys as old friends or worry stones.
The music continued to act as a through-line of emotional solace as Felder’s coming-of-agestory expanded into exploring his family’s history. His discovery of a suitcase kept by the front door, packed with prayer shawls and menorah, acted as the catalyst for his realization that his grandparents had fled from Europe to escape the Holocaust. Most of their loved ones were not so lucky. Felder stressed that the primary word his grandparents and other survivors used to describe their immense loss was “disappeared,” a haunting parallel to rhetoric used in our present moment.
Suddenly, the suitcases arranged on the floor all around Felder took on new significance as audiences realized that they symbolized his family’s fear and constant readiness to flee. Yet Felder, anchored at his grand piano, sent a clear visual message: his purpose as a musician and actor is to stay, sharing his and others’ stories.
Performances continue through May 10th. For tickets ($25-119) visit etcsb.org.
Wednesday 5/13
Creator’s Club • Bilingual, weekly STEAM activity • Eastside Library • Free • 2-3pm We.
LECTURES/MEETINGS/WORKSHOPS
Lessons from Lotusland • Virtual talk on the Fern Garden • Free, register: lotusland.org • 6:30pm We, 5/13.
Sewing and Mending Club • EE
Makerspace • $15 • exploreecology.org • 6-8pm We, 5/13.
Come From Away • Musical about Gander, Newfoundland, welcoming grounded planes during 9/11 • Marian Theatre • $25 • pcpa. org • 7pm Through Su, 5/10.
Hershey Felder: The Piano and Me • Felder shares his life story • Ensemble Theatre Co • New Vic • $25-119 • etcsb.org • Through Su, 5/10.
Student Shows • Adderley School for the Performing Arts • Center Stage Theater • $18-43 • centerstagetheater.org • 12:30pm, 2pm, & 3:30pm, Sa, 5/9. Anima 2026: Theater of the Feminine Underground • Performance art collaborative by women • Center Stage Theater • $32-42 • centerstagetheater.org • 7pm Th, 5/14 & Fr, 5/15.
The SpongeBob Musical • SpongeBob and friends must save
UCSB Multicultural Center Lounge • Free • mcc.sa.ucsb.edu • 3pm We, 5/13.
Knitting & Crochet Club • Louise Lowry Davis Ctr • All levels/English/ Spanish • Free • 9-11:30am Wed.
Le Cercle Français • Free French conversation, all levels • The Natural Cafe • https://tinyurl.com/5ejbd9ye • 5-6:30pm Wed.
Live Music at the Library • Hip-hop, rock, and soul • Central Library, Faulkner Gallery • Free • 5-6pm We, 5/13.
UCSB Music of India • North Indian classical music • UCSB Music Bowl • Free • music.ucsb.edu • 12pm We, 5/13.
Open Jam • At Revolver Pizza. Jam with musicians • 1429 San Andres St • Free • revolversb.com • 6-9pm Wed.
OUTDOORS
Erin Walsh • Discusses The Art of Intentional Dressing • Godmothers Books • $23 • godmothers.com • 6pm We, 5/13.
Reyna Grande • Discusses her memoir Migrant Heart • Chaucer’s Books • Free • 6pm We, 5/13.
Terry Tempest Williams • Discusses her book The Glorians: Visitations from the Holy Ordinary • UCSB Arts & Lectures • Campbell Hall • $10-35 • artsandlectures.ucsb.edu • 7:30pm We, 5/13.
Your Body, Your Agency • Learn about empowerment and self defense •
Bikini Bottom from a volcanic eruption • Severson Theatre • $10 • pcpa.org • 7pm Th, 5/14 & Sa, 5/16. Love and Information • A fast paced play following the experiences of over 100 different characters • Severson Theatre • $10 • pcpa.org • 7pm Fr, 5/15 & 1:30pm Sa, 5/16.
Eleanor • Kandis Chappell portrays First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt • Rubicon Theatre • $30155 • rubicontheatre.org • 7pm We, 5/13 through Su, 5/31.
Standing Still • Six people navigate uncertainty in a yoga studio • UCSB Performing Arts Theater • $17 • theaterdance.ucsb.edu • 7:30pm We, 5/13 through Sa, 5/23.
Bodies Unbound • A OneWoman Theater Piece written and performed by Cynthia Waring • REH Contemporary Gallery • Free • 2pm Sa, 5/16 & 5/30.
godmothers.com • 6pm Th, 5/14.
Undergraduate Research Slam
• Students from diverse disciplines discuss their research • UCSB Library: Instruction & Training 1312 • Free • 4:30-6:30pm Th, 5/14.
On Fire Talk • Prof. Bench Ansfield discusses racial capitalism • UCSB McCune Conference Room • Free • ihc.ucsb.edu • 4pm Th, 5/14.
Disability Joy • Zine-making workshop • UCSB Multicultural Center Lounge • Free • mcc.sa.ucsb.edu • 2pm Th, 5/14. SB Literary Journal • Release and reading of the 13th volume, Mysterious Ways • Chaucer’s Books • Free • 6pm Th, 5/14.
Knit ‘n’ Needle • Fiber arts club • Montecito Library • Free • 2pm Th.
MUSIC
Spring Birding Classes • Guided walks with Sophie Cameron • Various locations • $75-100 • sbnature.org • 8:30-10:30am We, 5/13.
Thursday 5/14
LECTURES/MEETINGS/WORKSHOPS
Neurodiversity Social Group for Adults • Starbucks at La Cumbre Plaza • 3pm Th, 5/14. Bobby Stuckey, Caroline Styne & Heidi Merrick • Discuss Friuli Food and Wine • Godmothers Books • $125 •
Isidore String Quartet • With Sterling Elliott, cello • UCSB’s Hahn Hall • $10-53 • artsandlectures.ucsb. edu • 7pm Th, 5/14.
Lizz Wright • Jazz vocalist and songwriter • Lobero Theatre • $50-100 • lobero.org • 7:30pm Th, 5/14.
Friday 5/15
LECTURES/MEETINGS/WORKSHOPS
Sean Collyns • Discusses Your Soul Is the Source of Your Power • Godmothers Books • $23 • godmothers.com • 6pm Fr, 5/15.
MEET GOLETA DISTRICT 1
COUNCIL MEMBER LUZ REYESMARTÍN AND MAYOR PAULA
PEROTTE for a relaxed morning of conversation and community connection when the next meeting of Coffee & Community returns from 9 to 11am at Lighthouse Coffee on Calle Real on Saturday, May 16th. Spanish interpretation will be available. Participants are welcome to use the time to ask questions, share ideas, learn more about city events, or get to know their elected representatives. cityofgoleta.org
Transformational Tales • Live storytelling night presented by the Starfish Connection • Del Pueblo Cafe
• Free • 6:30pm Fr, 5/15.
The Sacred Circle With Diana Raab, Ph.D. • Reflect on Mothers, Mentors & Matriarchs • Godmothers Books • $39 • godmothers.com • 2pm Fr, 5/15.
Oil and Water
• Learn the risks of oil extraction • CEC’s Environmental Hub • Free, RSVP: envirohubsb.org • 5:30pm Fr, 5/15.
Finish-Up Friday • Complete projects
• EE Makerspace • $15 • exploreecology. org • 2:30-5:30pm Fr, 5/15.
The Brasscals • Street brass band
• Night Lizard Brewing Company • Free • 8pm Fr, 5/15.
American Riviera Classic
Pickleball Tournament • SB Municipal Tennis-Pickleball Courts
• $90 • pickleballtournaments.com/ tournaments/the-american-riviera-classic • Fr, 5/15 - Su, 5/17.
Illuminating Impact
Symposium • Leadership event • UCSB’s Institute for Energy Efficiency
• Free, register: unitetolight.org • 8:30am Fr, 5/15.
SBPL x SBMA Teen Art pARTy
• Work with Artist Carlos Bardales • Central Library • Free, register: calendar.library.santabarbaraca.gov • 3:45-5:30pm Fr, 5/15.
Dreams In Bloom Gala • FSA honors Ron Werft and Marni & Michael
Nature Journaling • Led by John Iwerks • SB Botanic Garden, Blakesly Library • $25-35 • sbbotanicgarden. org • 9-11am Sa, 5/16.
Make Your Own Instruments & Jam Session • Led by Cameron Tummel • EE Makerspace, Art from Scrap parking lot • $5 • exploreecology.org • 2-4pm Sa, 5/16.
Barry McGuire • American singersongwriter • Cold Spring Tavern • Free • 1:30-4:30pm Sa, 5/16.
UCSB Chamber Choir • Trinity Episcopal Church • Free • 2pm Sa, 5/16.
Petite Messe Solennelle • Performed by choirs of UCSB, Ventura & Moorpark College with soloists • Free • Trinity Episcopal Church, 2pm Sa 5/16 & Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 7pm Su, 5/17.
Cooney • Ginny & Tim Bliss Estate • $500 • fsacares.org • 5pm Fr, 5/14.
Saturday 5/16
CHILDREN
Crafternoon • Fun crafts, ages 5+
• Explore Ecology Makerspace • $8 • exploreecology.org • 10am-12pm, Sat.
Storytime @ the Sea Center • All ages, free w/admission • SBNature.org • 10:30–10:45am Sat & Sun.
The Good Good Show • Monthly comedy show • Night Lizard Brewing Company • Free • 7:30pm Sa, 5/16.
Spring Experience 2026 • Celebration of American composers and dance by SB Festival Ballet • Center Stage Theater • $25-32 • centerstagetheater.org • 7pm Sa, 5/16 & 2pm Su, 5/17.
Madeline: Lost in Central Park • State Street Ballet Academy performs jazz, tap, ballet and more • Lobero Theatre • $19-32 • lobero.org • 6pm Sa, 5/16 & 2pm Su, 5/17.
LECTURES/MEETINGS/WORKSHOPS
Tutor Training for New Adult Literacy Volunteers • Central Library • Free, register: calendar.library.santabarbaraca.gov • 12-4pm Sa, 5/16 & Su, 5/17. Chloe Warner & Elise Loehnen • Discuss This Must Be the Place: Homes With Atmosphere • Godmothers Books • $23 • godmothers.com • 6pm Sa, 5/16.
Mahler’s Resurrection • SB Symphony & Chorus and soloists perform Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 • Granada Theatre • $45-198 • granadasb.org • 7:30pm Sa, 5/16 & 3pm Su, 5/17.
Santa Rosa Island Day Trip • Guided excursion • Meet at Ventura Harbor • $185-200 • sbbotanicgarden.org • 7:15am-6pm Sa, 5/16.
The Architectural Walking Tour
• History of buildings in SB • City Hall steps at De la Guerra Plaza • $20 • afsb.org • 10am, Sat.
California Strawberry Festival
• Ventura County Fairgrounds • Live music, vendors, rides, treats, and more • Free-$15 • castrawberryfestival.org • 10am-6:30pm Sa, 5/16 & 5/17.
Fiesta Dog Parade • Dog/people costume contest presented by Old Spanish Days • Begins at 800 State Street • Free • 11am-1pm Sa, 5/16.
Bird Fest • Bird activities and crafts • SB Botanic Garden • Free • 10:30am12:30pm Sa, 5/16.
Grand Wine Tasting • 40+ local wineries and food artisans, with live music • El Presidio de SB • $35-125 • sbce.events/grand-wine-tasting • 2-5pm Sa, 5/16.
EXPERIENCE THE AWE-INSPIRING MAJESTY of Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony No. 2 when the Santa Barbara Symphony orchestra and chorus join forces with guest soprano Johanna Will and mezzo-soprano Felicia Gavilanes at the Granada Theatre at 7:30pm on Saturday, May 16th and at 3pm on Sunday, May 17th. For tickets ($45-198) visit thesymphony.org
Storytime @ the Sea Center • All ages • Free w/ admission • SBNature.org • 10:30–10:45am Sat & Sun.
Sundays at the Ranch • Fun for the family. Enjoy barn animals and tractor rides • Stow House, 304 N Los Carneros Rd • Free • goletahistory.org • 11am-2pm Sun.
MUSIC
Lenny Kerley Band • Countryrock band • Cold Spring Tavern • Free • 1-4pm Su, 5/17.
Freedom Music Festival • Artists raising funds to support immigrants • Arlington Theatre • $79-102 • arlingtontheatresb.com • 6-10pm Su, 5/17.
Philip Glass and The Poets • Spoken word and piano • UCSB Arts & Lectures • Campbell Hall • $10-43 • artsandlectures.ucsb.edu • 7pm Su, 5/17.
UCSB Chamber Choir • Oxnard Performing Arts Center • Free • 7pm Su, 5/17.
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Carillon Recital • By Faculty Artist Wesley Arai • UCSB Storke Tower • Free • 2pm Su, 5/17.
Beach Cleanup • Care for our shore with Explore Ecology • Meet behind Skater’s Point skate park • RSVP to join • sbnature.org • 10am12pm Su, 5/17.
Sunday Architecture Tour • Meet at Public Library Plaza at 40 E Anapamu St • Architectural Fdn of SB • $20 • afsb.org • 10am Sun.
School Book Fair • 25% of purchases donated to Garden Preschool of Santa Barbara • Chaucer’s Books • 3-5pm Su, 5/17. Fine Print, Hard Lines • Housing and Exclusion in SB exhibit & reception • Casa de la Guerra • Free • sbthp.org • 2-3:30pm Su, 5/17.
By Isaac Hernández de Lipa / VOICE
SANTA BARBARA CELEBRATES
NATIONAL BIKE MONTH by connecting people with the joy and benefits of biking. With more than 30 biking events throughout the county from Cuyama and Carpinteria to Santa Maria and Guadalupe, it attracts more riders every year.
“My favorite part of CycleMAYnia is seeing all the people biking to work and school for the first time,” said Aaron Bonfilio, Director of Multimodal Programs for SBCAG, to VOICE. “The Bike-to-Work and Bike-to-School events have the ability to transform daily commutes, improving the quality of life for those riders, but also the community around us.”
CycleMAYnia was created in 2009, led by the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) in collaboration with public entities and private organizations, and funded by Measure A, as well as sponsors.
SBCAG works year-round with employers and community partners to make biking and other alternative travel options more practical and accessible. “That includes outreach and education, as well as helping to fund and lead regional infrastructure projects that connect cities and unincorporated areas —improving safety and making it easier for people to bike, walk, or take transit across Santa Barbara County,” added Bonfilio.
The family rides, scavenger hunts,
safety workshops, guided tours, school and bike-to-work activities brought together over 900 riders in 2025, a 250-rider increase from the year before.
2026 events include a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9am on May 8th celebrating the completion of the Modoc MultiUse Path at 4289 Modoc Road in Santa Barbara, followed by the Mayor’s Ride on said path at 10am; a Bike-to-Work Breakfast on May 14th from 7 to 9 am at UCSB’s Henley Gate that includes free bike tune-ups; as well as a group bike ride from Handlebar Coffee in downtown Santa Barbara to UCSB on May 28th, from 6:45 to 8 am.
Santa Barbara will celebrate National Bike-to-Work Day a day early, on May 14th, with many employers providing free food, bike mechanics, and other celebratory fun.
Throughout the month, employers are also invited to take part in a friendly, countywide competition that rewards biking to work by signing up on SmartRide.org. Top teams will earn a Stanley Cup–style trophy at the CycleMAYnia Finale on May 31st at Goleta Beach.
There also will be multiple chances to win prizes, including an e-bike. The more you participate in CycleMAYnia, the more chances you have to win the AIMA Big Sur e-bike, sponsored by E Bikery.
The Cycling Without Age program will offer free, piloted trishaw rides for people with limited mobility by reservation, seven days in advance. Each trishaw accommodates two passengers on a bench seat or one wheelchair rider.
If you’re ready to switch to commuting by bicycle and want to make it official, you’re invited to come by the UCSB Arbor any time from 11:30am to 1:30pm on May 27th to write a breakup letter to your car.
Another perk for participants, riders who bike to the bus can load bikes (space permitting) and ride fare-free all month on fixed-route services countywide.
“CycleMAYnia could not happen without the community, and no one person makes CycleMAYnia happen,” concluded Bonfilio. “That is part of what makes National Bike Month here in Santa Barbara County so special.”
For a detailed event calendar and to RSVP for events, visit CycleMAYnia.org
Opera Santa Barbara
By Robert F. Adams / Special to VOICE
HALLELUJAH!
Opera Santa Barbara delivered a rousing performance of Elmer Gantry, a Grammy Award-winning new opera which tells the story of a charismatic salesman-turned-revival preacher and his opportunism at the turn of the century.
“The music is amazing and accessible for a contemporary opera, a very entertaining work that is based on film and literature, with comic aspects, and I am delighted to bring it here to conclude our season,” stated Kostis Protopapas, Opera Santa Barbara Artistic & General Director and the conductor for this performance.
Partly based on the book by Sinclair Lewis and partly drawn from the 1960 movie starring Burt Lancaster (at his most flamboyant in an Oscarwinning performance), Elmer Gantry is set in the 1920s American Midwest. At the time of the novel’s launch in 1927, it became a best seller but was also banned in Boston and other cities across the U.S. due to Lewis’ dark satirical look at religion and the title character’s immorality. This opera fully embraces the theatrical aspects of Elmer Gantry, with a misogynistic lead character, reprehensible at turns for his extroverted insincerity and patterns of betrayal.
citizens.
OSB’s sparkling performance was both faithful to the story and a well-mounted production. It was the work’s West Coast premiere and the cast filled the small stage of the historic Lobero Theatre. Also, in a surprise appearance, both creators of the opera attended the performance, composer Robert Aldridge and librettist Herschel Garfien.
Mezzo-soprano Christina Pezzarossi shines as Sharon Falconer, the lead traveling evangelist. A regular OSB performer, her captivating singing and her ability to embrace the characters she plays places her in the top-line of must-see performances for local opera. Her Sharon Falconer is introduced with Sharon’s Aria, a platitude touching multi-dimensional introduction, both regal yet fragile at the same time. Her angelic performance this last weekend is one for the books. Her tragic demise at the conclusion of the opera echoes Brünnhilde in Wagner’s Götterdämmerung.
Elmer Gantry helped Sinclair Lewis win the Nobel Prize for literature and his fictional story is a satirical gaze on the revivalist tent-churches in the Midwest at that time. The tents were like circuses, going from town to town, seeking converts with donations. This is a story about the fight of substance versus the vortex of shiny appearances, and could easily be tied to religion, politics, and the currents of societal structures.
Tenor Evan Bravos, who has appeared at OSB in The Cunning Little Vixen and Jennifer Higdon’s phenomenal opera Cold Mountain for the Music Academy of the West, played the title role of Elmer Gantry, making the most of this oversized character. Bravos gave a straight-arrow sober interpretation. Mostly unlikable, Gantry’s character is a challenging role with snippets of grace between his hollow-man, nakedly lustful character. Bravos performed Gantry’s arias and scenes well, the most notable turn being his self-questioning aria at the center of the show.
The supporting cast blended wonderfully, featuring Brooklyn Snow as a sexy vengeful former girlfriend, Nathan Stark, Colin Ramsey, and Byron Mayes, among others, with the outstanding
The opera was developed in 2007 for the Nashville Opera by Aldridge and Garfien, winning two Grammy Awards in 2011, including best Classical Contemporary Composition. OSB’s Kostis Protopapas, saw this work in 2011 in Milwaukee, and later mounted it in 2014 for the Tulsa Opera.
The orchestra, led by maestro Protopapas, played exceptionally for this score with remnants of hymns, jazz, Copeland-esque pastoral, and Bible Belt lyrical passages. The stage direction was clear-eyed and appealing by Tara Faircloth, aided and abetted by lighting designer Helena Kuukka, who elegantly colored the backdrops of the minimalist and wooden boxy set. Windows offered either views onto corn fields or the revivalist tent, with a projected fire onto the scrim for the tragic conclusion at the tabernacle erected in a former opera house in the fictional town of Zenith (a stand-in for Omaha, Nebraska). Costumer Stacie Logue appropriately offered outfits for the cast that were subtle and drawn from the 1920s-1930s period setting.
In appreciation, the audience rose to their feet for the cast, chorus, conductor, orchestra, and the visual technical staff. This fascinating production was sponsored by a host of contributors including the George H. and Olive J. Griffiths Charitable Foundation and the Chrisman Emerging Artist Fund.
And many thanks to Kostis Protopapas and his Board of Directors for their continuing journeys of discovery and for their bold embrace of newer opera works. operasb.org
ABy Kerry Methner / VOICE
FTER A LIFETIME WALKING A CREATIVE PATH WITH A PENCHANT FOR WILD PLACES, Mitchell Robles stepped into Indah Gallery and soon a new exhibition of his work, Mitchell Robles: Many Roads, was born. “My work has grown out of a lifelong, physical dialogue with the wild landscapes of the American West,” Robles commented. “Time spent in these places has shaped both my process and my perspective, allowing solitude and quiet to replace the noise of urban life.”
On view since April 18th, there is just one more weekend to see the exhibition, this Friday through Sunday, May 8th to the 10th from 12 to 5pm. “His work is bold and enlivening and truly commands one’s attention in the gallery,” noted Indah Gallery owner Max Gleason, who met Robles when he visited the gallery to share his work. “With Indah Gallery’s mission to support and exhibit local artists, having an eleventh generation Santa Barbara native show here seemed like an ideal fit.”
Robles grew up in a family of artists and musicians whose influence he honors. The exhibition at Indah Gallery flows from his experience in the wild, with his family, and in the contemporary world forming a colorful confluence of
“Mitch’s work is a visual excavation of his Chumash ancestry. Through his years of exploring Indigenous symbolism, Mitch has cultivated a distinctive vernacular, pulsing with vibrant color and populated by petroglyphs, ancestors, and animal guides,” Gleason added. “Mitch’s work not only honors this rich cultural lineage, but expands upon it, continuing the conversation for our contemporary moment.”
The exhibition includes work from years past to the present, and it all reflects Robles belief that art should be passionate as well as grounded in his Chumash culture. “I
believe that art should be exciting, both in conception and perception,” his artist statement explains. “The excitement for me is in the expression of the unspoken, the pure energy and mystery that runs beneath the surface of the natural world.”
If that current flows through your spirit too, be sure to explore Many Roads soon.
10 West Gallery • 10th Anniversary Celebration and Art Sale: May 7-9; Superlative: May 14 through June 21 • 10 W Anapamu • 11-5 We-Mo • 805770-7711 • 10westgallery.com
Architectural Fdn Gallery • Lindsay Skutch: Pinhole Noir, through May 30 • 229 E Victoria • 805-965-6307 • 1–4 some Sa & By Appt • afsb.org
Arrediamo Fine Art & Traditional Rugs Gallery • 911.5 State St • arrediamo.com
Art & Soul Gallery • The Strangers Project through May 17 • 1323 State St • artandsoulsb.com
Art, Design & Architecture Museum, UCSB • Closed for installation • reopens May 23 • 12-5 Wed-Sun • museum.ucsb.edu
Art From Scrap • Explore Ecology • exploreecology.org
ArtLabbé Gallery • free art, music, & exercise classes to our individuals with special needs & family members • Tu, We, Th, Sun 12-5:30; Fr 12-5 • 111 Santa Barbara St, #H • artlabbe.org
Atkinson Gallery • Tu & We 10–2 • SBCC Humanities East Campus Rm 203 • atkinsongallerysbcc.com
Bella Rosa Galleries • 1103-A State St • 11-5 daily • 805-966-1707
The Carriage and Western Art Museum • Old Spanish Days Trophy Saddles; Victoria Stables Wagon • Ongoing • Free • 129 Castillo St • 805-962-2353 • 9-3 Mo-Fr • carriagemuseum.org
California Nature Art Museum • Ocean Forests: Our Coastal Communities through July 20; Lulu Hyggelig: California’s First Thomas Dambo Troll • ongoing • 1511 B Mission Dr, Solvang • 11-4 Mo, Th, Fr; 11-5 Sa & Su • calnatureartmuseum.org
Casa de La Guerra • Fine Print, Hard Lines: Housing and Exclusion in Santa Barbara; Santa Barbara 1925 –2025: A Portrait in Maps; Once a Don, Always a Don • ongoing • $5/Free • 15 East De la Guerra St • 12-4 Th-Su • sbthp.org/casadelaguerra
Casa Dolores • Bandera Ware / traditional outfits ~ ongoing • 1023 Bath St • 12-4 Tu-Sa • 805-963-1032
Casa del Herrero • Gardens & House • by reservation • 1387 East Valley Rd • tours 10 & 2 We & Sa • 805-565-5653 • casadelherrero.com
Channing Peake Gallery • Scaling the Walls • 8-5 M-F • 105 E Anapamu St, 1st fl • 805-568-3994
Colette Cosentino Atelier + Gallery • 11 W Anapamu St • By Appt • colettecosentino.com
Community Arts Workshop • 631 Garden St • 10-6pm Fri & By Appt. • sbcaw.org
Corridan Gallery • Glorious California • 125 N Milpas • 11-5 We-Sa • 805-966-7939 • corridan-gallery.com
Cypress Gallery • Evolving: C. Wood & Chuck Klein • Through May 24 • 119 E Cypress Av, Lompoc • 1-4 Sa & Su • 805-737-1129 • lompocart.org
El Presidio De Santa Bárbara • Nihonmachi Revisited; Memorias y Facturas - ongoing • 123 E Canon Perdido St • 10:30-4:30 Daily • sbthp.org
Elverhøj Museum • Roland
Petersen Undiminished: A Centennial Celebration • through Aug 11 • History & Danish culture • 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang • 805-686-1211 • 11-5 Th-Mo • elverhoj.org
Faulkner Gallery • Covering 40 Years: through May • 40 E Anapamu St • 10-7 Mo-Th; 10-5 Fri, Sa; 12-5 Sun • 805-962-7653.
Fazzino 3-D Studio Gallery • 3-D original fine art • 1011 State St • 805730-9109 • Fazzino.com
Fuzion Gallery & Boutique • Hand blown glass, 100 + artists • 1115 State St • fuzionglass.com
Gallery 113 • Members of the SB Art Assn • 1114 State St, #8, La Arcada Ct • 805-965-6611 • 11-5 Mo-Sa; 1-4 Su • gallery113sb.com
Gallery Los Olivos • Ann Wirtz: Limitless: through May 30 • Daily 104pm • 2920 Grand Av • 805-688-7517 • gallerylosolivos.com
Ganna Walska Lotusland • Gardens • by reservation • 695 Ashley Rd • 805-969-9990 • lotusland.org
Grace Fisher Fdn • Inclusive Arts Clubhouse • Paintings by Grace Fisher • 121 S Hope, La Cumbre Plaza • WeSu 11-5pm • gracefisherfoundation.org
Indah Gallery • Mitch Robles: Many Roads, through May 10 • Fri-Sun 12-5 • 2190 N Refugio Rd, Santa Ynez • maxgleason.com/indah-gallery
James Main Fine Art • 19th & 20th
Century Fine art & antiques • 27 E De La Guerra St • 12-5 Tu-Sa • Appt Suggested • 805-962-8347
Jewish Federation of Greater SB • Portraits of Survival interactive ~ Ongoing • 9-4pm Mo-Fr • 524 Chapala St • 805-957-1115 ext. 114
Kathryne Designs • Local Artists • 1225 Coast Village Rd, A • 10-5 Mo-Sa; 11-5 Su • 805-565-4700 • kathrynedesigns.com
La Cumbre Center For Creative Arts • Fine Line Gallery; Elevate Gallery; Illuminations Gallery • Multi-Artist Studio/Gallery Spaces • La Cumbre Plaza • 12-5 Tu-Su • lcccasb.com
Lompoc Library Grossman Gallery • 501 E North Av, Lompoc • 805-588-3459
Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center • 12-4 Th-Su • 865 Linden • 805-684-7789 • carpinteriaartscenter.org
Maker House • A Gesture Repeated • 1351 Holiday Hill Rd • 805-565-CLAY • 10-4 Daily • makerhouse.org
Marcia Burtt Gallery • Peggy Gruen and At The Beach through June 21 • Landscape paintings, prints, & books • 517 Laguna St • 1-5 Th-Su • 805-9625588 • artlacuna.com
Mate Gallery • Beach images alongside vintage oils, gifts • 1014 Coast Village Rd • 805-895-6283 • mategallery.com
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation • 10-5 Daily • 125 State St • 805-770-5000 • moxi.org
Museum of Contemporary Art
Santa Barbara • 11-6pm Tu-Sun • 653 Paseo Nuevo • mcasantabarbara.org
Legacy Arts International • Wed-Sun 12-8pm • 310-880-6671 • legacyartsb.com
Palm Loft Gallery • Find the Beautiful, through May 24 • 410 Palm Av, Loft A1, Carpinteria • 1-6 Fr-Su & By Appt • 805-684-9700 • palmloft.com
Patricia Clarke Studio • An American Girl project; Primal Wild; Correspondences, Erasing Lines, and Facing Ourselves • 410 Palm Av, Carpinteria • By Appt • 805-452-7739 • patriciaclarkestudio.com
Peregrine Galleries • Early CA & American paintings; fine vintage jewelry • 1133 Coast Village Rd • 805252-9659 • @peregrinegalleries
Peter Horjus Design • Studio • 11 W Figueroa St • peterhorjus.com
Pippin • La Aracada’s newest art, antiques, and Lifestyle boutique • 1114 State #24.
Portico Gallery • Jordan Pope & Gallery Artists • Open Daily • 1235 Coast Village Rd • 805-729-8454 • porticofinearts.com
REH Contemporary • 12 West Anapamu • Studio of Ruth Ellen Hoag and local artists • 805-689-0858 • RuthEllenHoag.com
Rubenstein Chan Contemporary Art • Textual Integration • through May 31 • 410 Palm Av, B3, Carpinteria • 805-576-6152: weekends & by appt • RubensteinChan.com
Santa Barbara Art Works • Arts Education for All • 28 E Victoria St • 805-260-6705 • M-F 8:30-4:30 • sbartworks.org
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden • 1212 Mission Canyon Rd • 10-5 daily • 805-682-4726 • sbbg.org
MURALS AND PUBLIC ART have come into focus this spring, culminating with a new exhibition presented by The Santa Barbara County Office of Arts and Culture. Scaling the Walls is a multi-venue exhibition featuring seven new murals by local schools, nonprofits, and artists. Following the exhibitions’ 1st Thursday opening receptions at Channing Peake Gallery (105 E. Anapamu St.) and Santa Barbara City Hall Gallery (735 Anacapa St.) on Thursday, May 7th, from 5 to 8pm, the exhibitions will be open to the public during business hours.
“Examining muralism’s cultural impact and evolution over the last century and highlighting its continued role as a community-centered art form,” Scaling the Walls grows out of Santa Barbara’s prolific and colorful mural tradition, the exhibition information explains.
From Earth Day murals at The Museum of Contemporary Arts Santa Barbara, to Chicano heritage murals in Ortega Park, to seemingly random placements of large works on private buildings in the Funk Zone and around town and on school campuses, murals are loved and contribute to our communities. Scaling the Walls continues the tradition and works to “bring together artists and organizations from across Santa Barbara County, reflecting contemporary approaches to public art,” the release added.
At Santa Barbara City Hall Gallery visitors will find murals produced by the Arts Alliance, a youth mentorship program of the Parks and Recreation Department.
Miguel “Omepache” Rodriguez and Denisse Villanueva, both program graduates, were artistic directors for the project.
“The team created these murals using stylized art themes and symbols painted in rich, vibrant tones to depict our shared journeys and struggles, particularly those of migrant farm workers, and Indigenous peoples,” said Ricardo Venegas, who has managed the program for the past 25 years.
“The murals acknowledge the diversity and journeys of Indigenous peoples and serve as a powerful tool for cultural reclamation,” he added.
New murals from Allan Hancock College, Carpinteria Arts Center, Cheri Owen, Corazón del Pueblo, Helen Yanez, John Khus, and the UC Santa Barbara College of Creative Studies’ Social Print Lab will be exhibited at Channing Peake Gallery. Commissioned by the County Arts Commission, mural mediums range from painting to silkscreen and collage. “The resulting murals highlight the breadth of artistic approaches as well as the diversity and continued relevance of mural practices across the county. The largest
Santa Barbara City Hall Gallery
• Scaling The Walls • featuring Arts Alliance members • 735 Anacapa St .
Santa Barbara Fine Art • Places from the Heart • Landscapes & sculptor
Bud Bottoms • 1321 State St • 1-6 We-Sa & By Appt • 805-845-4270 • santabarbarafineart.com
Sketching in the Galleries
• Sketch from works in the galleries • SB Museum of Art • Free with admission • sbma.net • 11:15am-12:15pm Sa, 5/9.
Legacy of Wonder Artist’s Reception • View and celebrate the oil paintings of Micheal Harvan • Palm Loft Gallery, Carpinteria • 4-6pm Sa, 5/10.
La Cumbre Plaza 3rd Friday Gallery Row Art Walk • Six galleries, music, art activities, & more! • 5-8pm Fri, 5/15 (See page 18 for details).
Santa Barbara Historical Museum • The Gift; Ludmilla Pila Welch: Serene Santa Barbara through June; Edward Borein Gallery, and The Story of Santa Barbara ~ ongoing • 136 E De la Guerra • 12-5 We, Fri-Su; 12-7 Th • 805-966-1601 • sbhistorical.org
Santa Barbara Maritime
Aquean • Gallery walk-through and book signing • Santa Barbara Maritime Museum • Free • sbmm. org • 12:30-2:30pm Sa, 5/16.
Kintsugi Workshop • Learn to repair broken ceramics with gold • SBMA, Luria Activities Center • $275-300 • sbma.net • 1pm Su, 5/17.
Carpinteria Creative Arts
Market • Pottery, beach art, cards, jewelry, sewn articles • 8th St & Linden Av • Free • 2:30pm-6pm Thu.
SB Arts & Crafts Show • Local artists & artisans • Free • 236 E Cabrillo Blvd • 10am-5pm Sun.
mural on view is 7 feet high, and 32 feet wide, created by student artists from the Social Print Lab. To develop their concept, the students traveled by bicycle and on foot through Santa Barbara and gathered imagery of architectural frameworks, stickers, tags, and debris from the urban landscape.
“Scaling the Walls is important because it opens up conversations about public art in a way that reaches beyond traditional audiences,” said artist Cheri Owen. “It invites people to engage with the collective voices and perspectives that mural work represents, regardless of how they experience it.”
Curated by the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts and Culture, Scaling the Walls is part of an ongoing initiative to map and document the region’s public art tradition.
“Throughout its history, mural art has served as a tool for cultural representation, community engagement, and the celebration of shared identity,” noted Tom Pazderka, Office of Arts and Culture Curator. “Scaling the Walls connects these roots to Santa Barbara County’s current public art landscape, where more than 100 murals exist in Santa Barbara alone and many more across the region.”
The Santa Barbara County Office of Arts & Culture serves as the local governmental umbrella
Museum • Aquean: through Jul 26 • The Chumash, Whaling, Commercial Diving, Surfing, Shipwrecks, First Order Fresnel Lens, and SB Lighthouse Women Keepers ~ Ongoing • 113 Harbor Wy, Ste 190 • 10-5 Daily • 805-962-8404 • SBMM.org
Santa Barbara Museum Of Art
• Remixed: Entwined Histories & New Forms, through Aug 30; Magical Realism: Latin American Photographers in Dialogue through Jun 14; RandomAccess Memory: Internet Art, through Sep 27; As if in a Dream: History, Fantasy, Future: through January 3; By Achilles’ Tomb: Elliott Hundley and Antiquity through Jun 1 • 11-5 Tu-Su; 5-8 1st Th free; 2nd Sun free Tri-Co residents • 805-963-4364 • sbma.net
Santa Barbara Museum Of Natural History • The Living Print through May 30 • 2559 Puesta del Sol • 10-5 We-Mo • sbnature.org
Santa Barbara Sea Center • Dive In: Our Changing Channel ~ Ongoing • 211 Stearns Wharf • 10-5 Daily • 805682-4711 • sbnature.org
Santa Barbara Tennis Club - 2nd Fridays Art • SB Visual Artists, through May 26 • 2375 Foothill Rd • 10-6 Daily • 805-682-4722 • 2ndfridaysart.com
for arts and culture projects and programs, representing a longstanding partnership between the County of Santa Barbara and the City of Santa Barbara and serves as a State-Local Partner of the California Arts Council. Through robust public-private partnerships, the SBCOAC seeks to support and catalyze art, culture, and creative expression. sbac.ca.gov
Find a downloadable map of Santa Barbara’s murals at sbbeautiful.org
Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum • 3596 Sagunto St • 12-4pm We-Su • santaynezmuseum.org
Sahyun Genealogical Library • Research family history • 316 Castillo St • Tue/Thu 10-4; Sun & 3rd Sat 1-4 • SBGen.org
Seimandi & Leprieur • Hunt
Slonem: a leading figure of American Neo-Expressionism • May 15-Jun 7 • 33 W Anapamu St. • Wed-Sat 11-6 • 805610-1203 • seimandileprieur.com
Stewart Fine Art • Early CA Plein
Air Paintings + European Fine Art + Antiques • 539 San Ysidro Rd • 11-5:30 Mo-Sa • 805-845-0255
Sullivan Goss • Meredith Brooks
Abbott: Capturing Our Time through Jun 22; Susan McDonnell: Consider the Lilies, through May 25; Spring Salon II through May 22 • 11 E Anapamu St • 10-5:30 daily • 805-730-1460 • sullivangoss.com
Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum • 122 W Canon Perdido • 11-4 Fr-Sa; Su-Th by appt • quinlanmuseum.com • 805-687-4623
SYV Historical Museum & Carriage House • Art of The Western Saddle • ongoing • 3596 Sagunto St, SY • 12-4 Sa, Su • 805-688-7889 • santaynezmuseum.org
Tamsen Gallery • Jeff Bridges: Pictures • 1309 State St • 12-5 We-Su • 805-705-2208 • tamsengallery.com
UCSB Library Ocean Gallery • Unyielding Voices: Global Resistance and the Black Radical Tradition • through Jun 12 • library.ucsb.edu
Voice Gallery • Abstract Art Collective’s Spring Show, through May 30 • La Cumbre Plaza H-124 • 10-5:30 M-F; 1-5 Sa-Sun • 805-965-6448
Waterhouse Gallery Montecito • Notable CA & National Artists • 1187 Coast Village Rd • 11-5 Mo-Su • 805962-8885 • waterhousegallery.com
Waterhouse Gallery SB • Notable CA & National Artists • La Arcada Ct, 1114 State St, #9 • 11-5 Mo-Sa • 805962-8885 • waterhousegallery.com
Westmont Ridley-Tree Museum Of Art • Habitual Curiosity: Paintings by Chelsea Roberts (‘18) through Jun 20; Reencounter: 2026 Senior Art Graduates Exhibition: through May 9 • Weekdays 10-4, Sat 11-5 • westmont.edu/museum
The Yes Store • Art by Local Artists • 1015 State St • M-F: 11am-6pm; Sa:10:30am-6pm; Su: 10:30am-5pm • theyesstore.com
ST THURSDAY is an evening of art and culture in downtown Santa Barbara that takes place on the first Thursday of each month. Participating art venues offer free access to art in a fun and social environment from 5-8pm. 1st Thursday venues also provide additional attractions, such as live music, artist receptions, lectures, wine tastings, and hands-on activities. State St also comes alive on 1st Thursday with performances and interactive activities.
decade of art! Special anniversary pricing on original works by 10 West artists. Opens on 1st Thursday, 5-8 pm. Continues Fri & and Sat, 11am -
16. The Yes Store • 1015 State St • Featuring the work of 60 talented local artists! Enjoy music, drinks, and treats! View Eileen Richardson’s 1980’s art pottery! A SB artist whose work is in The Smithsonian Museum. Find handmade gifts or something special for yourself at The Yes Store!
18. Finch & Fork | The Kimpton Canary Hotel • 31 W. Carrillo St. • We are transforming our lobby into a vibrant mini-market featuring local artists! Grab a drink from the bar, browse unique handcrafted pieces, and enjoy the perfect pairing of oysters. Support local creatives & unwind.
19. SuperMoss • 922 State St • Our very first 1st Thursday at SuperMoss, where preserved moss is showcased. Handcrafted pieces and unique plant arrangements in a relaxing, green atmosphere. Meet fellow art and plant lovers, chat with crafters in our locally-owned shop!
20. SBIFF’s Santa Barbara Filmmaker Series • SBIFF’s Film Center, 916 State St • Join us for Angie Ruiz’s short doc. Wonders Of The Wolf on one of the most successful conservation efforts: the Yellowstone Wolf Project. Showtimes 5:30pm, 6:15pm, 7pm. Runtime: 31 mins. FREE!
21. Arrediamo - Fine Art & Traditional Rugs Gallery • 911 1/2
State St • The Southwest’s largest collection of handmade contemporary, traditional, & antique Persian, Turkish, Afghani, Tribal, & Tibetan rugs. Arrediamo is dedicated to quality & authenticity. Owned by Rem Yildirim.
17. Bloomberg Asphalt Art Initiative • State x Carrillo Intersection • Join lead artists Eddy Jimenez and Irene Ramirez and City and County staff to learn more about the newlyinstalled asphalt art and additional art elements to come.
22. Music Academy of the West • 901 State St • Open house at the Music Academy of the West’s Music Education Center at 901 State St. Explore the building today and preview renderings of what’s to come. Enjoy a glass of wine and learn about the future of music education downtown!
23. Soul Sucker • 814 State St STE 38 • Hand-building workshop making copitas. Live calligraphy/watercolor by SB urban artist, Brandon Teris. Live wheel demo by Adriana Lemus Ceramics. Shop work by Adriana Lemus. Pop-up by Maritza of Mujeres Market. Play some games with Game Seeker.
24. Casa de la Guerra & The SPACE • 15 E. De La Guerra St. • Be among the first to view Fine Print, Hard Lines, SBTHP’s new exhibit about housing discrimination & exclusion in SB. Visit The SPACE to celebrate Chumash culture & history. Enjoy Indigenous artmaking activities.
25. Paint at Paseo • 651 Paseo Nuevo • Join us for a free guided painting workshop with Vero Sanchez, a Mexican Illustrator & Studio Artist based in SB. Her work is
primarily centered in artivismo (artactivism) & highlights cultural & sociopolitical identities. RSVP encouraged.
26. Longoria Wines • 732 State Street • View SB artist Michael O’Guinn’s solo presentation of contemporary abstract paintings. Our tasting room transformed into a mini-gallery where you can grab a glass and experience large-scale works from O’Guinn’s 2025-26 body of work.
27. City Hall Gallery • 735 Anacapa St. • Scaling the Walls spans City Hall & Channing Peake galleries exploring the practice of muralism. City Hall features Arts Alliance members whose work reflects collaboration, public art, and the community roots of SBC’s mural tradition.
28. Santa Barbara Historical Museum • 136 E. De La Guerra St. • Live music by Tony Ybarra, wine, and more! Exhibitions, The Gift: Recent Additions to Our Story and Ludmilla Pilat Welch: Serene Santa Barbara along with our permanent galleries, will also be open. All ages welcome.
SB1200 • 800 Block of State St • Get ready to move with SB1200, one of Santa Barbara’s premier hip-hop ensembles. Known for their hypnotic grooves and a setlist of soulful favorites that invite the whole crowd to sing along, SB1200 delivers a high-energy, family-friendly performance.
By Sonia Fernandez
The UC Santa Barbara Current • 5.4.26
UC SANTA BARBARA MARINE SCIENTISTS
are uncovering just how tightly the beach and the nearshore are connected along the California coast. Often treated as discrete ecosystems because of the natural divide between land and sea, the two are subtly linked by physical and ecological processes that couple the extent and condition of the kelp forests to the robustness and complexity of the food web on the shore.
Through a paper published in Nature Scientific Reports, lead author Kyle Emery and colleagues quantify and characterize these connections, which add to our overall knowledge of the importance of the relationship between these adjacent ecosystems. According to the researchers, “the highly coupled nature of these coastal ecosystems increases the likelihood that negative impacts to donor ecosystems will cascade to affect the structure and function of subsidized recipient ecosystems.” This work was supported by the National Science Foundation.
It’s easy to assume that the nearshore and the sandy beach have little to do with each other, largely because the environments and the creatures that live there are so different. However, previous research has highlighted the strong, local spatial connections between the two areas through the deposition of kelp, which washes onto the beach. These kelp depositions — also known as “wrack” — provide nutrients to sandy beach ecosystems, which generally have low amounts of their own primary production at the base of the beach food web.
“The offshore supply of kelp is a good predictor of how much kelp ends up on the beach,” Emery said. “And we know that we have this variability in kelp inputs to beaches along the coast.” The paper extends this connection to investigate the ecosystem impacts of the kelp wrack, Emery explained. “How does the variability in the amount of kelp wrack that ends up on the beach translate to variability in different communities on the beach and various ecosystem processes?”
To find out, the research team surveyed 24 beaches across 100 kilometers of Santa Barbara and Ventura county coastlines, then analyzed data from these locations on factors which indicate the influence of the kelp subsidies to shoreline ecology. They measured the amount of wrack inputs, which comes mostly from nearby kelp forests. Against that they measured several indicators of the contribution of kelp wrack to beach ecosystem functions, including nutrients and carbon dioxide that come from kelp decomposition on the shore. They also characterized the beach food web from bottom to top, accounting for the number and size of kelp eaters and the animals that consume them, from beach hoppers to shorebirds, estimating the amount of energy required to sustain them.
“They’re measures of everything from biogeochemistry to invertebrate and shorebird communities, just all these different kinds of ecological functions that we hypothesized would respond to wrack inputs,” Emery said.
The takeaway, he said, was that the wrack inputs have
“strong and direct impacts on the different invertebrate groups,” be that the consumption by kelp eaters, or as habitat for the predators of kelp eaters. These impacts ripple upward to higher level consumers such as shorebirds.
“We’re seeing that the variability of these kelp inputs to the beach has a really strong multi-trophic level impact on organisms that live in and consume their resources on the beach,” Emery said. More kelp, more impact, he added, and “we can expect that a reduction in nearshore kelp would translate to negative responses in all these other groups and ecosystem functions on beaches.” The findings here could apply to other beaches around the world, especially temperate beaches that receive wrack subsidies from nearshore kelp forests.
sheds light on the ecological benefit.
“When you ask people to think of a pristine beach in Southern California, the idea is of a wide, flat, clean sandy beach with nothing on it,” he said. “But in reality, a pristine beach is one that is biodiverse, highly functioning, and has lots of kelp wrack with all the invertebrates thriving off those inputs and transferring energy up to higher trophic levels like shorebirds.”
Research on this study was also conducted by Jenifer E. Dugan, David M. Hubbard, Jessica R. Madden, and Robert J. Miller at UCSB’s Marine Science Institute, as well as J. Carter Ohlmann at UCSB’s Earth Research Institute.
Printed with permission of UCSB Office of Public Affairs and Communications.
Kyle Emery Assistant Researcher Marine Science Institute
In addition to making more concrete the connections between the nearshore and the sandy beach, the work highlights the larger context of the importance of a “natural” beach, i.e., one that is not groomed flat and free of wrack, like many of California’s urban beaches and many others around the world. Previous research has proved the physical importance of having dunes and dune plants to naturally protect against sea level rise, while this work
Kyle Emery has a PhD in Marine Science from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a MS and BS in Environmental Science from the University of Virginia. His research program is focused on quantifying and understanding the ecological implications of coastal ecosystem connectivity, particularly between kelp forests and sandy beaches, and how the impacts of climate change can alter these dynamics via changes to food webs and community composition. His research is also focused on measuring the attributes of and changes in coastal habitats including kelp forests, rocky intertidal, sandy beaches, and dunes using remote sensing (drones, satellite imagery) approaches within the context of both climate change and sea level rise.
A judge hands the city of Santa Barbara a victory in dispute over project applications. Looking ahead, the battle over the 270-unit plan is expected to heat up over public safety and environmental concerns.
By Tom Schultz / Special for the Santa Barbara News-Press 4.29.26
ARECENT COURT
RULING undercut developers who hope to construct a controversial eight-story housing project adjacent to Santa Barbara’s Old Mission.
But the proposal for 270 residential units is still alive, and a bigger fight remains as the project heads toward a new phase of scrutiny over potential impacts to air quality, noise, traffic, aesthetics, wildlife, and cultural and historical resources.
Superior Court Judge Thomas Anderle last week ruled a series of complaints against the city of Santa Barbara by the builders doing business as The Mission LLC were moot or “unripe.” At the core of the lawsuit were allegations city planners improperly handled project applications.
Looking ahead, neighborhood groups this week stood ready to amplify their concerns.
“The biggest concern is public health and safety,” said land use attorney Marc Chytilo, who represents Smart Action for Growth & Equity (SAGE), a nonprofit focused on housing policy that includes residents of Mission Canyon, the Upper Eastside and Lower Riviera.
Among other considerations, neighbors will continue to question whether the project is appropriate for what’s considered to be a key wildfire and emergency evacuation corridor, Chytilo said.
Builder’s Remedy: a moving target
The project slated for 505 E. Los Olivos St. would reach a height of 112 feet —82 feet higher than 30-foot city zoning limits at the property, the site of the former site of Mount Cavalry Monastery near Rocky Nook Park. It would include more than 50 units earmarked for affordability.
An original preliminary project application dates to May
2023. At the time, the state-mandated Housing Element component of the city’s General Plan was not yet certified. This made the housing proposal a Builder’s Remedy project, which meant it could bypass key local zoning and general plan standards.
But in October, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed SB 158, a bill that essentially disqualified the high-density Los Olivos Street proposal from Builder’s Remedy environmental review exemptions.
Championed by California Senate President Pro Tem Monique Limón, who represents Santa Barbara, SB 158 targeted affected projects in cities with populations between 85,000 and 95,000 (like Santa Barbara) in counties with populations between 445,000 and 455,000 (like Santa Barbara County).
In a case still pending, The Mission LLC has sued the city and state in federal court over SB 158.
The recent ruling
In the local lawsuit decided last week, The Mission LLC alleged city planning officials improperly deemed a series of project applications the company submitted incomplete. In one of the more serious allegations, the company said the city attempted to intentionally delay the project and deliberately increase costs.
According to court papers, the conflict spiked in May after the city—for the fourth time—rejected an application submitted by the developers.
“While my client has been willing to address the many improper, and in several cases illegal, requirements imposed by the city to date, this fourth letter is apparently entirely in bad faith and designed to harass,” attorney Richard Jacobs, who represents Mission LLC, wrote to city officials at the time.
Nearly two months later, following a fifth round of
THE CITY OF SANTA BARBARA COLLECTED $3.0 MILLION in Transient Occupancy Taxes (TOT) for March 2026, the ninth month in the City’s fiscal year.
Year to date, the City has collected $27.5 Million in overall TOT, of which approximately $24.1 Million came from hotels and $3.4 Million from short-term rentals. Year to date, total TOT revenues are coming in 8.3% above budget.
The Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) is a tax on “transient” guests staying in any hotel, inn, motel, or other commercial lodging establishment for a period of less than 30 days.
The City’s adopted TOT budget for all funds is $35.5 Million, of which $29.5 Million is budgeted in the General Fund.
View the Transient Occupancy Tax Table. The City’s TOT tax rate is 12.0 percent, of which 10.0 percent goes to the City’s General Fund and the remaining 2.0 percent goes to the Creeks/Clean Water Fund. Visit santabarbaraca.gov/finance/budget-reports
revisions, the city determined the developer’s application was acceptable.
That acceptance, Judge Anderle ruled Wednesday, rendered the developers’ claim against the city moot.
The judge also declined to weigh in on project fees and other requirements disputed by The Mission LLC, ruling the developers had raised some of their key grievances too soon in the project review process.
City taking public comment
City planners have begun to review the accepted application. In August, they issued a letter that described the project as inconsistent with four dozen municipal standards and policies.
Reached by phone on Monday, Jacobs, the developers’ attorney, would not discuss the ruling.
“My clients informed me to tell you, ‘No comment,’” he said.
In addition, the City Attorney’s Office did not respond to requests for comment.
The city is accepting public comment on the project through June 9.
This story was originally published by the Santa Barbara
LA CIUDAD DE SANTA BÁRBARA RECAUDÓ $3.0 MILLONES en Impuestos de Ocupación Transitoria (TOT) en marzo 2026, el noveno mes en el año fiscal de la Ciudad. En lo que va de año, la Ciudad ha recaudado $27.5 millones en TOT general, de los cuales aproximadamente $24.1 millones provienen de hoteles y $3.4 millones de alquileres a corto plazo. A la fecha, los ingresos totales por concepto de TOT se sitúan un 8.3% por encima del presupuesto.
El Impuesto de Ocupación Transitoria (TOT) es un impuesto que grava a los huéspedes “transitorios” que se alojan en cualquier hotel, posada, motel u otro establecimiento comercial de alojamiento por un periodo inferior a 30 días.
El presupuesto adoptado por la Ciudad para el TOT, considerando todos los fondos, es de $35.5 millones, de los cuales $29.5 millones están asignados al Fondo General. Consulte la tabla del Impuesto de Ocupación Transitoria. El tipo impositivo del TOT en la Ciudad es del 12.0 %, de los cuales el 10.0 % se destina al Fondo General de la Ciudad y el 2.0 % restante al Fondo de Arroyos y Agua Limpia. Visite santabarbaraca.gov/finance/budget-reports
