S anta Barbara Beautiful 60th Annual Awards Celebration Sunday, September 28th, 2025 – 2:00pm Alhecama Theatre, 215a E. Canon Perdido Street For
Also:
Business in Art Award presented by The City of Santa Barbara Arts Advisory Committee
Voted Best of 100 Years of Santa Barbara Public Art Award, by Nathan Vonk, Sullivan Goss
Cover image by Angela Perko Bloom,
Anticipation Builds for Autumn Arts!
JBy Daisy Scott / VOICE
AZZY OVERTURES, CAPTIVATING STORYTELLING, AND SHARP POLITICAL COMMENTARY from some of the biggest names in American culture will once again visit our city by the sea as UCSB Arts & Lectures, under the direction of Miller McCune Executive Director Meghan Bush, looks towards its 66th season.
“A&L is more than a presenter, it’s a catalyst for connection, curiosity, and community,” shared Bush. “I’m constantly inspired by my colleagues, including mentors like Celesta Billeci and Roman Baratiak, who have dedicated their careers to this mission. Our team works tirelessly to bring world-class events to Santa Barbara because we believe deeply in the power of the arts and public dialogue to shape a more empathetic, informed, and connected society.”
A dedicated UCSB Arts & Lectures team member for many years, this fall marks Bush’s first season as the organization’s Miller McCune Executive Director.
“As I begin this chapter, my top priority is to honor A&L’s legacy of excellence,” said Bush. “This organization has consistently brought some of the world’s most inspiring voices and performers to our community. The bar is high, and I’m committed to maintaining that standard while also exploring new possibilities.”
Lectures takes its most popular 2025-2026 season events downtown. The fun begins on October 2nd with five-time Grammy-winning jazz vocalist Samara Joy at the Granada Theatre.
Breathing new life into familiar songs such as You Stepped Out of a Dream and Someone to Watch Over Me, Samara Joy’s expressive voice will be backed by a swinging octet of musicians.
Granada Theatre highlights will also include the return of two favorite artists within the span of one week: criticallyacclaimed violinist Itzhak Perlman on October 30th and the ever-experimental Ballet Preljocaj on November 5th.
The Arlington Theatre marquee will also light up with critically-acclaimed lecturers, children’s events, and musicians as UCSB Arts & Lectures anticipates hosting up to 2,000 attendees at a time within the historic venue.
Kicking off these star-studded occasions, bestselling author Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat, Pray, Love), will discuss her new memoir about connection and grief, All the Way to the River, on October 11th.
A premiere classical cruise through Russian compositions will kick off the season when pianist Daniil Trifonov performs at UCSB’s Campbell Hall at 7pm on September 30th. Channeling passion and precision into each note, the Gramophone and Musical America Artist of the Year will perform Prokofiev’s Visions Fugitives alongside works by Sergei Taneyev and Nikolai Myaskovsky. The night will conclude with Robert Schumann’s beloved Piano Sonata No.1
Trifonov’s concert also celebrates the debut of UCSB Arts & Lectures’ new Keyboard Virtuosos series, which will host internationally-recognized pianists, including Víkingur Ólafsson on October 22nd.
Meanwhile, State Street will come alive with fans of all ages when UCSB Arts &
CNN host and author Fareed Zakaria will next take the Arlington stage on October 16th to present “What it Takes,” addressing our quicklychanging political and cultural landscape. His talk will mark UCSB Arts
Pianist Daniil Trifonov will kick off the UCSB Arts & Lectures season on September 30th
Photo by Dario Acosta
CNN host Fareed Zakaria will be the inagural speaker for the Roman Baratiak Endowed Lecture on October 16th
Jazz vocalist Samara Joy, October 2nd
Author Elizabeth Gilbert, October 11th
Violinist Itzhak Perlman, October 30th
Photo by Deborah Lopez
Photo by Todd Rosenberg
Photo courtesy of UCSB A&L
Photo courtesy of UCSB A&L
Humorist David Sedaris, November 7th
Photo by Anne Fishbein
September 6, 2025
Saturday 7:30pm
Lobero Theatre
33 E Canon Perdido, Santa Barbara
& Lectures’ inaugural Roman Baratiak Endowed Lecture, which was named to honor the work and legacy of the organization’s longtime associate director.
“It’s a season of ideas and imagination,” said Bush.
Timeless hits will next rock the Arlington when soul icon Boz Scaggs performs his “Rhythm Review 2025” on October 21st, with songs from his solo career as well as when he played with fellow rocker Steve Miller.
Musical festivities will continue with Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning singer Lila Downs’ Día de Muertos, a genre-blending night of traditional Mexican music and contemporary flair, to celebrate the Day of the Dead on October 23rd at the Arlington.
Locals looking for opportunities to hear generation-shaping writers can also look forward to attending lectures by New York Times Columnist Ezra Klein and humorist David Sedaris on November 4th and 7th, respectively, at the Arlington Theatre.
Audience participation and squeals of excitement will ring across every aisle when Disney’s Moana Live-To-Film Concert visits on November 16th to unite studio musicians, Polynesian rhythm masters and vocalists, and local children and their families with fun sing-alongs to this animated favorite.
“Access to arts and culture isn’t a luxury – it’s essential,” remarked Bush. “It invites us to see the world through different lenses, builds understanding, and helps us grow both individually and collectively.”
With single ticket sales open as of this week, locals are already marking their calendars in anticipation of this season’s delights. Series subscriptions are also available for folks who are looking to save and attend multiple events within the same category. To purchase tickets or subscriptions visit artsandlectures.ucsb.edu
Fernanda Chi Dance & Selah Dance Collective
Singer Lila Downs, October 23rd
Photo by Enrique Leyva
Musician Boz Scaggs, October 21st
Photo courtesy of UCSB A&L
Police Blotter
Human Trafficking Case Draws Three Year Prison Sentence
ARRESTED AT A SANTA BARBARA HOTEL, Kalen Bradford, 39, from Merced County, was sentenced to three years in state prison for human trafficking by the Honorable Pauline Maxwell, in Santa Barbara Superior Court, after pleading guilty to the crime of pimping, last week.
“Combatting human trafficking is a top priority for the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office,” said District Attorney Savrnoch. “These crimes rob individuals of their freedom and dignity. We will continue to pursue traffickers aggressively, protect victims, and work with our community to end this exploitation.”
Bradford was arrested on April 10, 2025, during an undercover operation targeting human trafficking conducted by the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office, led by Detective Valerie Centeno, in collaboration with the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Senior Deputy District Attorney Megan Chanda.
Bradford was taken into custody in the parking lot of a local hotel, where his victim had arranged to meet with an undercover detective posing as a buyer. The investigation revealed that Bradford exploited and profited from the victim and received proceeds of her sexual exploitation.
The District Attorney’s Office has a dedicated team that works closely with law enforcement agencies to identify traffickers, rescue victims, and hold offenders accountable. This work includes proactive investigations, specialized training for prosecutors, and strong partnerships with victim service providers to ensure survivors receive the support they need to rebuild their lives.
The DA’s Office reminds the public that stopping human trafficking requires vigilance and community partnership. If you suspect someone may be a victim of trafficking, please speak up. In an emergency, call 911. For non-emergency reports, call the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office at 805-683-2724. Victims of trafficking can access assistance through the Victim Witness Program at the Santa Barbara District Attorney’s Office, which provides crisis support, safety planning, counseling referrals, and assistance navigating the legal process.
Additional assistance is available through the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, where trained advocates are available 24/7 to connect victims with safety and services.
Assault Weapons and Child Pornography Charges Filed Against City Employee
DAYTON ROBERT
ALDRICH, 35, OF SANTA BARBARA was charged with possession, manufacture, and distribution of child pornography; possession of assault weapons; possession of extended-capacity magazines; possession of cocaine with an assault weapon, according to Barbara County District Attorney John T. Savrnoch.
Aldrich is currently an employee of the City of Santa Barbara as a Community Development Program Specialist and was formerly an employee of the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office.
Aldrich worked at the District Attorney’s Office from 2015 to 2017 and from 2019 to 2024. He held positions in the District Attorney’s Office as a Victim Witness Program Assistant and a Legal Office Professional. He received his Juris Doctorate from the Santa Barbara College of Law. Dayton is the current board president of the Winchester Canyon Gun Club.
Aldrich was arrested Monday and arraigned in Department 8 of the Santa Barbara Superior Court on August 20, 2025. He is currently being held at the Santa Barbara County Jail on $1 million bail.
Santa Barbara Man Convicted of Manslaughter
CHARGED WITH MANSLAUGHTER FOR A FENTANYL-RELATED DEATH, Dillon Johnson, 37, of Santa Barbara, pled guilty on August 19th, 2025, to involuntary manslaughter with a special allegation that he personally inflicted great bodily injury or death. Johnson also pled guilty to selling fentanyl to the victim, transporting methamphetamine for sale, and possessing both fentanyl and methamphetamine for sale, according to Santa Barbara District Attorney John T. Savrnoch, this week.
It was alleged, Johnson sold fentanyl to Matthew Dyet, On April 28th, 2022. Dyet ingested the fentanyl and was found deceased the following morning, a short distance from the location of the drug transaction. The cause of death was determined to be a fentanyl overdose. Following an investigation by the Santa Barbara Police Department Narcotics Unit, the defendant was arrested on September 1, 2022, while transporting and possessing fentanyl and methamphetamine for sale.
Johnson will be sentenced on October 14, 2025, in Department 12 of the Santa Barbara Superior Court before the Honorable Stephen P. Foley. He faces a state prison sentence of eight years and eight months.
The Santa Barbara Police Department detectives, Senior Deputy District Attorney Anthony Davis, and the prosecution team were recognized and thanked by District Attorney Savrnoch.
Community News
HelloFresh Settles Consumer Protection Lawsuit for $7.5 Million
A CONSUMER PROTECTION LAWSUIT CONCERNING ALLEGED VIOLATION OF CALIFORNIA’S AUTOMATIC RENEWAL LAW has been settled by HelloFresh for $7.5 million, according to Santa Barbara County District Attorney John Savrnoch, whose office is a part of the California Automatic Renewal Task Force (CART). HelloFresh is the world’s largest meal kit delivery company.
The civil complaint alleged violations of deceptively enrolling consumers into auto-renewing subscription plans without proper disclosure or consent. The complaint was filed in Santa Clara County Superior Court.
The civil complaint alleged that HelloFresh did not clearly and conspicuously disclose the required subscription terms before enrolling consumers in automatic renewal product subscriptions, obtain consumers’ affirmative consent, provide consumers with the proper post-purchase acknowledgment, or offer an easy-to-use mechanism for cancellation. The meal kit delivery company also failed to disclose the material terms and conditions of advertised free meals, surprise gifts, and free shipping offers, among other false and misleading advertising allegations. These actions are violations of California’s Automatic Renewal Law and False Advertising Law. The Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s office enforces
these laws as a member of CART, along with the District Attorney’s Offices of Santa Clara County, Los Angeles County, San Diego County, and Santa Cruz County, and the Santa Monica City Attorney’s Office.
As part of the settlement, HelloFresh will pay $6.38 million in civil penalties, $120,000 in investigative costs, and $1 million in restitution to eligible California consumers. Eligible California consumers include those who were: 1) enrolled in an automatic renewal product subscription between January 1, 2019, and August 18, 2025, 2) were charged for the first shipment without their knowledge or consent, 3) canceled their automatic renewal product subscription after the first shipment, and 4) never received a refund from HelloFresh. Notices will be sent to eligible consumers by a third-party claims administrator.
The Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office will receive $1,063,334 of the $6.38 million in civil penalties that will be used to support future enforcement of consumer protection laws.
District Attorney Savrnoch thanked the CART team, and in particular the Santa Clara and Los Angeles County District Attorney’s offices who led the case, as well as Senior Deputy District Attorneys Christopher Dalbey and Morgan Lucas for their work.
City of SB Reallocates $500,000 to Support Immigrants
By Daisy Scott / VOICE
IN THE LARGEST LOCAL FISCAL DISPLAY OF SUPPORT for residents impacted by ICE, the Santa Barbara City Council voted to give $500,000 to the Immigrant Legal Defense Center and a new grant partnership with the Fund for Santa Barbara on Tuesday.
“In our Pledge of Allegiance we end with ‘liberty and justice for all,’ and this is our commitment to that, to living up to that pledge,” said Councilmember Oscar Gutierrez.
$130,000 of the $500,000 will be awarded to the Immigrant Legal Defense Center (ILDC) to support 30 to 40 cases specific to Santa Barbara city residents and their families. The remaining funds will be used to build a new grant program with the Fund for Santa Barbara.
Mayor Randy Rowse was the sole opposition vote. He voiced disapproval over the $500,000 amount in addition to pulling from the city’s flexible Housing and Homelessness Fund, stating that he doubted that taxpayers expected funds would be used in this manner.
Councilmembers decided to reappropriate money from the housing fund in an effort to distribute funds as quickly as possible to people in need. Currently,
the housing fund totals $1.5 million. The council’s Finance Committee will meet to discuss replenishing the full $500,000 amount to the housing fund in midOctober.
In the end, the council voted 5-1 in favor of the reallocation, with Councilmember Mike Jordan being absent. Councilmember Wendy Santamaria, who initially abstained from voting on the council’s funding decision on July 31st, voted in favor.
Over a dozen people, the majority of whom are members of the 805 Immigrant Coalition and the Mixteco/Indígena Community Organizing Project (MICOP), called upon the council to approve the funds during public comment.
The ILDC provides legal assistance to individuals who are currently in detention centers or fighting immigration court cases. The organization also offers counseling and case management for young residents. Currently, the ILDC’s waitlist is 120 cases long countywide.
When it comes to the Fund for Santa Barbara, a total of $333,000 will be distributed via direct grants to local organizations serving the immigrant community and their families. $37,000 will be allocated to pay FUND staff and operations.
The city staff presentation proposed a grant program where organizations apply for funds to support or expands existing programs. Grants must also be used to specifically assist individuals and families living or working within the City of Santa Barbara.
Additionally, city staff recommended that grant funding “cannot be used for training, education or any other strategies and tools that could be perceived as interfering with federal law enforcement operations.”
The council will provide final approval on all grants awarded.
As the council discussion neared conclusion, Rowse remarked that city housing funds would have to be made up out of “low-hanging fruit” projects such as after-school and library programming. “Although we recognize this problem, recognize the consequences of these federal actions, we can’t be all things to all people and we are not a bottomless pit,” said Rowse.
Councilmembers Kristen Sneddon and Santamaria spoke against Rowse’s claims in the final moments before voting.
“I don’t think anyone had in mind what this firestorm has been and is going to be when any of our tax measures were passed, but I do think they all stood for community
in one way or another,” said Sneddon. “And I do think we can do this without continuing to threaten cuts to other programs that also impact disproportionately impacted communities, neighborhoods, and programs.”
“We’re not in the business of trying to pit one community need against the other and as a council we have that tough decision to decide what that ‘low hanging fruit’ is,” added Santamaria.
Earlier in the meeting, Sneddon also highlighted the importance of the council’s vote taking place right before the Santa Barbara Unified School District’s first day of school on August 20th.
“We haven’t even begun to see the heartache that’s going to start when school starts, and we’re not prepared as a community, I think, for all that’s to come,” said Councilmember Kristen Sneddon. “So this is one step, one thing that we can do here and now as a start; but I want to say for myself this is no way checks the box for being ‘done,’ this is an ongoing, sustained effort.”
Councilmembers will meet on September 9th to take a final vote to award the funds to the IDLC and enter into a formal partnership agreement with the Fund for Santa Barbara to launch the new grant program.
Why Now Is the Right Time To Switch to an Electric Vehicle, and Why Doing
So is an Act of Resistance
Submitted by Tia Kordell, Community Environmental Council
IT’S OFFICIAL: WHEN IT COMES TO PROTECTING US FROM THE GROWING THREAT OF A CLIMATE CRISIS, the federal government is not just asleep at the wheel – it’s driving us in reverse. Regressive climate policies, funding rollbacks, and the purge of environmental agencies threaten to permanently set the climate movement back by a decade or more.
As we watch years of climate progress unravel, state and local action is the only path toward a livable future. Thankfully, there are many impactful ways we can resist these attempts to thwart climate progress. While this may seem small in the scheme of things, one such way is to switch to an electric vehicle.
Driving electric is an act of resistance Transportation is the highest-emitting sector in the United States, and D.C. seems bent on keeping it that way by threatening California’s clean car goals and taking aim at the Clean Air Act. If you want to resist these attacks on the climate movement, switch to
an EV. EVs emit much less carbon and air pollution than gas-powered vehicles (no matter how you charge them), and adopting an EV in these times signals your resistance to oil companies and support for climate action.
This is especially true for California residents. As the fourth-largest economy in the world with far more cars on the road than any other state, California has the power to shape global vehicle markets and influence climate action well beyond our borders. When we back California’s 2035 zero-emissions vehicle target and collectively push for EV adoption, it sends a clear message to automakers, other states, and the federal government: the clean energy revolution is still underway — regardless of what happens on the Hill or in the White House.
Cue the countdown: 60 days until the federal EV tax credits expire
Buying a new car can be costly and complicated, so let’s break down how to get a new or used electric vehicle at an affordable price. Through IRS Clean Vehicle
Tax Credits, you can get up to $7,500 to buy or lease a new plug-in hybrid, EV, or fuel cell vehicle or up to $4,000 for a used one… but not for long. When Congress signed the so-called Big Beautiful Bill, they cut this EV affordability program and set it to expire September 30, 2025 (instead of 2032). If you want to claim these EV savings, head to the dealership as soon as possible.
If you are unable to take advantage of the federal tax credits before they go away, you still have other ways to fund an EV purchase or lease. Many local drivers have access to at least one or two additional incentives — and there are even more for low- to moderate-income drivers (income thresholds are as high as $141,200 for a family of four in Santa Barbara). California’s Driving Clean Assistance program offers up to $12,000 for EVs, EV charging, and other green transit options (think E-Bikes and bus passes). Utility companies offer their own EV incentives. Plus, the City of Santa Barbara gives rebates for EVs and EV charging. The best part of having an array of funding programs available is — eligibility pending
— you can stack these funds to significantly bring down the cost of an EV purchase or lease.
If you need help making the switch, look to the Community Environmental Council (CEC). Our mission is to ensure that proven environmental solutions like this are given the opportunity to succeed. CEC provides free one-on-one support to community members to take advantage of EV funding programs. Our team can answer your EV and EV charging questions, find out what funding you qualify for, and help you apply for incentives.
EVs alone aren’t going to change the tide on climate – we still need to equitably and holistically shift the entire transportation system. However, EV adoption is a necessary piece of the puzzle for ramping down carbon pollution, and it’s a potent way to push the climate movement forward amid the federal administration’s regressive actions. Now more than ever, every voice, every action, and every tonne of carbon emissions matter, so swapping your car is a step toward the livable climate future we need.
Over $5.5M Awarded to Expand Healthcare Access, Capacity on Central Coast
AWARDING 16 GRANTS AMOUNTING
TO $5,542,406, CenCal Health has worked to address the healthcare needs identified in the latest community assessment reports for San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties. The grants prioritized primary care and pediatrics, behavioral health, and specialty care services.
CenCal Health, the Medi-Cal managed care plan for both counties, is reinvesting Medi-Cal funds back into its service area through the Medi-Cal Capacity, Access and Workforce Development Grant Program (Capacity Grants). Launched in January 2025, these grants aim to expand healthcare access and capacity through strategic funding aimed at provider recruitment, workforce training and education, and medical practice support.
“This grant program presents a key opportunity for CenCal Health to support the local medical community in addressing our region’s healthcare needs,” said Marina Owen, CenCal Health CEO. “Our Board of Directors –
made up of health professionals and community leaders – is united in carrying out this strategy to broaden access to care for all residents on the Central Coast, including CenCal Health members.”
The grants will support the hiring of 34 healthcare professionals including providers in Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Endocrinology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, as well as Behavioral Health. Of the over $5.5 million in Capacity Grants funding, $3,121,164 went to San Luis Obispo County and $2,421,242 to Santa Barbara County.
Grant recipients in Santa Barbara County are Dignity Health dba Pacific Central Coast Health Centers; Jeffrey Kaplan MD, Pediatric Medicine Inc.; Lompoc Valley Medical Center; Peter Alan Krause Medical Corporation; Robert S. Barry, M.D. Inc.; Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics; Santa Barbara Public Health Department, and Open Minds.
In San Luis Obispo County, grant recipients are Bravo Pediatrics; Developmental Specialty Partners;
CEC Climate Stewards Fall 2025 Session Open for Enrollment
CENTRAL COAST RESIDENTS SEARCHING FOR WAYS TO ADVOCATE FOR CLIMATE CHANGE are invited to enroll in the Community Environmental Council’s Fall 2025 Climate Stewards certification course, which is designed to engage and empower participants to take action on climate change. CEC is the first and only nonprofit in the region to deliver the Climate Stewards certification program in partnership with the UC Environmental Stewards program, and one of only a handful programs of its kind across the state.
“We need local climate leaders — now more than ever,” said Kathi King, Course Instructor and CEC’s Director of Outreach and Education. “The Climate Stewards Course provides the perfect avenue for impassioned individuals to start making change in their community, workplace, or school.”
The Fall 2025 course will meet weekly via Zoom from September 9th through October 28th, in addition to experiencing several in-person field trips. Participants will gain access to climate action resources and will graduate with a better understanding of the psychology and science behind climate change, the tools necessary to forge greater community connections, and the knowledge to effectively communicate the climate crisis. Each cohort consists of a diverse group of approximately 20 individuals. The course fee is $350. Scholarships are available for those who express financial need, and no one will be turned away due to lack of funds. cecsb.org/climate-stewards
MTD Fare and Service Changes Go Into Effect
THE FIRST FARE CHANGE IN 16 YEARS for Santa Barbara MTD went into effect this past week, bumping regular one-way bus fares to $2.50 and holding a reduced fare for seniors and people with disabilities at $1.25. The age of eligibility for senior residents has also been raised to age 65 and up.
Old MTD passes will still be accepted on board until the end of August. If riders have unused or partially used passes, they can be brought to the Transit Center on Chapala Street and the remaining value can be applied towards the cost of a new pass until the end of September 2025.
Additionally, seniors over 65, people with disabilities, and Medicare card holders are now able to enroll to receive discounted fares when using SB MTD’s Tap2Ride system. This system allows riders to use mobile wallets on their phones to pay bus fares.
MTD has also added one additional weekday inbound PM peak trip on Line 24x (UCSB Express). The route will go from Goleta/IV/UCSB to downtown Santa Barbara, leaving from the North Hall Bus Loop at 5:10pm. sbmtd.gov
Esteem Health; Monarch Behavior Solutions, Patterson and Tedford Pediatrics; SLO Healthcare Workforce Partnership, and Well-Being Mental Health Inc.
Community Health Centers of the Central Coast – located in both San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties –also received grant funding.
www.cencalhealth.org/capacitygrants
Play, Laugh Breathe: Camp Wheez Helps Kids with Asthma Thrive This Summer
by
COMBINING LEARNING WITH PLAY, nearly 40 children from first through sixth grade learned how to manage their asthma symptoms by attending the 48th annual Camp Wheez. Hosted by Sansum Clinic, now part of Sutter Health, this free, week-long summer day cam helps kids learn about their health directly from asthma educators and how to take care of themselves beyond a doctor’s office.
“My son benefits so much from the education he receives at Camp Wheez, which has helped him become more empowered in the role he can personally take in the day-to-day management of his condition,” commented one parent of a Camp Wheez attendee.
The camp was led by Camp Director Sarah Williams, allergist and immunologist Dr. Myron Liebhaber, and a volunteer group of local high school students, many who are former campers. They led campers in participating in hands-on activities and crafts, played games, experienced performances, and learned how to confidently manage their asthma. Dr. Liebhaber presented his amateur magic tricks; a favorite camp tradition.
Parents attended an asthma education lunch and workshop where they met with clinicians to learn more about pediatric asthma.
“While I truly have had a ball leading this camp for more than 48 years, it’s about more than just having fun,” said Dr. Myron Liebhaber. “It’s about giving kids the confidence and knowledge to manage their asthma while letting them enjoy all that summer has to offer.”
Dr. Liebhaber celebrated not only another successful year of Camp Wheez, but also his upcoming retirement from Sansum Clinic after serving Central Coast patients for more than four decades.
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinic Director of Nursing Emily Bengle, MSN, RN, CNL; Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinic Interim Chief Operations Officer Yessenia Marroquin; Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinic Interim Chief Quality Officer Ceylan Ozkan, MSN, RN; with CenCal Health Provider Relations Manager Dona Lopez
Photo courtesy of CenCal Health
Dr. Myron Liebhaber with Camp Wheez 2025 attendees and staff
Photo
Nik Blaskovich Photography
Community News
Community Effort To Provide Backto-School Supplies for 100 Students
NEW CLOTHES AND SCHOOL SUPPLIES will go to 100 students from Cleveland Elementary School as the results of a community partnership between Kiwanis of Santa Barbara, Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise, Unity Shoppe, and Old Navy Santa Barbara.
“This has become one of my favorite events of the year because it cultivates community between our families and these generous organizations,” said Cleveland Elementary principal Gabriel Sandoval. “The first days of school are special for all students and this clothing event allows students to feel confident about their appearance and when they feel confident that usually transfers to their academic confidence.
I also appreciate this clothing event because it reduces the economic stresses our families endure and allows them
to direct their finances to other priority needs.”
The students, selected by Cleveland Elementary based on need, each received a $100 gift card funded by Kiwanis of Santa Barbara, Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise, and a grant from Rotary District 5240. Old Navy, which opened two hours early for private shopping, contributed an additional $40 per student. Additionally, each student received a brand-new backpack filled with school supplies, while volunteers from Rotary, Kiwanis, and New House assisted families throughout the morning.
“This Back-to-School shopping event is a real life, joyful example of the Kiwanis mission being fulfilled here in our Santa Barbara community,” said Nancy Butterfield, Kiwanis of Santa Barbara past president and project coordinator.
“Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.”
This marks the fourth year of the project, organized by Kiwanis of Santa Barbara, and continues a growing tradition of local service clubs working together to meet the needs of students in the community.
Grace Fisher Foundation Expands Sensory Rooms to Eastside Library
A NEW COZY, MULTI-SENSORY SPACE will open at Eastside Library for neurodivergent children as part of the Grace Fisher Foundation’s efforts to enrich the lives of all through the arts. Called The Hidden Haven, the new library space will celebrate its grand opening with children goodie bags and light refreshments at 11:30am on Tuesday, August 26th.
A free resource for people of all abilities, The Hidden Haven was especially created to provide a peaceful space for calm, comfort, and self-regulation. Conceived and designed by artist and founder Grace Fisher, the Hidden Haven is the first sensory room of its kind in Santa Barbara.
The first Hidden Haven location opened in April 2025 at the GFF Inclusive Arts Clubhouse. The expansion to a second location was made possible through a partnership with the SB Public Library and the support of the SB Education Fund and the Leni Fund. The Eastside Library installation will be available to all library visitors during regular library hours.
In addition to the Eastside Library location, the GFF will soon open Hidden Haven satellite spaces for students at the Santa Barbara High School Wellness Center and La Cumbre Junior High School. GraceFisherFoundation.org
Good Samaritan Shelter Deploys Street Outreach Teams to Combat High Heat
IN RESPONSE TO FORECASTED HIGH TEMPERATURES EXCEEDING 85 DEGREES in all regions of Santa Barbara County, Good Samaritan Shelter will activate its cooling center protocol beginning Thursday, August 21st through Friday, August 22nd.
“Once students are equipped with school supplies and clothing, they can focus on learning and friendships,” said Liz Alves, President of the Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise. “Our club has supported this event for multiple years because it directly benefits families in our community--and we get to see what’s trending in youth fashion.”
All Good Samaritan Shelter street outreach teams will distribute essential cooling supplies to the homeless population across the county including water, cooling towels, electrolytes, water bottles, ice packs, and information on the signs of heat stroke and exhaustion. This initiative aims to ensure the health and safety of those who are exposed to extreme heat conditions.
“We are committed to protecting our community’s most vulnerable during these high temperatures,” said Kirsten Cahoon, Director of Homeless Services at Good Samaritan Shelter. “Our teams are prepared to offer crucial supplies and information to prevent heatrelated illnesses and provide relief.”
Good Samaritan Shelter is dedicated to serving the homeless population in Santa Barbara County by providing essential services and support. goodsamaritanshelter.org
Courtesy Photos
Boris Alves, Member, Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise; Gabriel Sandoval, Principal, Cleveland School; Nancy Butterfield, Past President and Project Coordinator, Kiwanis of Santa Barbara; and David Stengel, Store Manager, Old Navy Santa Barbara
Photo courtesy of GFF
A Cleveland Elementary student leaves Old Navy with a new backpack filled with supplies—ready to start the school year with confidence
A Cleveland Elementary student and his mother shop for back-toschool clothes at Old Navy, made possible by local Kiwanis and Rotary clubs, Rotary District 5240, Unity Shoppe, and Old Navy
Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise member Oscar Zavala assists a Cleveland Elementary family in selecting new school clothes as part of the community partnership event.
2025 Goleta Dam Dinner A Darn Good Time!
SHARING SMILES AND PICNIC DINNERS WITH ABOUT 350 LOCALS, the City of Goleta celebrated its annual Dam Dinner at Lake Los Carneros on August 16th. Guests chatted across the length of the dinner’s impressively long community tables, sharing homemade meals or food from A/R Catering.
“We are so lucky to have this incredible place in Goleta to gather for this free community event,” said Mayor Paula Perotte. “It was wonderful to see so many neighbors hanging out together and people making new friends as well. This just may have been the best year yet.”
Each participant received a Go Green Goleta reusable cutlery set and a lucky few won a succulent created by Devereaux CA and sponsored by the Fuel Depot and Point Market. People who cycled to the dinner was met with a free Bike Valet staffed by MOVE Santa Barbara County.
The Salt Martians, an area bluegrass group, once again provided live music while younger attendees enjoyed free face painting, corn hole, and Kona Ice. The Goleta Valley Library Book Van also made an appearance for the first time at this summertime tradition. Guests also had fun capturing silly and family photos with a special Dam Dinner photoframe.
SB Zoo Opens Tropical Wonders
ANIMAL LOVERS OF ALL AGES CAN STEP INTO A TROPICAL PARADISE as the Santa Barbara Zoo celebrates the opening of its newest space, “Tropical Wonders.” Located at the site of the Zoo’s longrunning “Eeeww!” exhibit, “Tropical Wonders” invites guests to explore the biodiversity of tropical regions around the globe, highlighting connections between species, ecosystems, and our shared planet.
“Tropical Wonders invites guests to look closer—to notice the overlooked, appreciate the misunderstood, and recognize that every species has a role to play,” said Charles Hopper, President & CEO of the Santa Barbara Zoo. “When we begin to see these connections, we better understand our own place in the world and our responsibility to protect it.”
Tropical species range from the commonplace to threatened and critically endangered animals, inlcuding the Burmese python, smoky jungle frog, Grand Cayman blue iguana, Southern three-banded armadillo, prehensile-tailed porcupine, and Henkel’s leaf-tailed gecko. The Thomas & Nancy Crawford Tropical Aviary is home to hamerkops, sacred ibises, macaws, and more tropical birds.
Tropical Wonders entry is included with Zoo admission. To purchase tickets to the SB Zoo visit sbzoo.org
The Dam Dinner was made possible with the City
Goleta Valley Historical Society. Pete
up, and clean up from the event in addition to creating the yearly Dam Dinner t-shirt.
Supporters also included the Creekside Restaurant, the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, the Water Store, and MarBorg. cityofgoleta.org
of Goleta’s partnership with the
Wolf with Big Hammer Lures helped to plan, set
The Salt Martians jammed out live bluegrass music
Assistant Goleta City Manager Jaime Valdez and his family
A crowd of about 350 locals enjoyed the free community dinner
Photos courtesy of City of Goleta
Photo by Kelly Hoover
See the Fiji banded iguana at Tropical Wonders
On the Street with John Palminteri
County Vaccination Concerns
THE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
says it is using all of its protocols and outreach to make sure required immunizations are given and to identify any gaps that will put the public at risk. This announcement comes after a report and recommendations from the SB County Grand Jury.
Carpinteria Celebrates Benefit Concert for Local Teacher
CARPINTERIA CAME
TOGETHER to rally for a local teacher and cancer survivor, Angie Torres Miller, on Sunday. This concert featured Kettle of Hawks and the Ojai Department of Rhythm on stage. There were also fundraising items to bid on and donated homemade food to buy for the show. A wonderful vibe to help this cause.
Local Marine, Alum, Missing
A SANTA BARBARA HIGH GRADUATE AND MARINE, James
“Dingo” Dominguez, is presumed dead after a training accident on a Montana lake. He was set to begin an ambitious, record-setting ocean row to raise money for veterans. Now, his twin brother is leading a private search and recovery effort.
Central Coast Train Service Resumes
BRIDGE WORK IS DONE and full train service resumes without a bus link transfer on the Central Coast. The project that started August 1st, was finished over the weekend on Vandenberg Space Force base property.
Stearns Wharf Murder Case Ends in Mistrial
THE STEARNS WHARF MURDER TRIAL ended with a mistrial after several days of deliberations. The jury was deadlocked at 11-1 and a unanimous vote was needed for a conviction. A tourist was shot in 2022 during what was called a gang fight at the entrance to the Santa Barbara landmark.
Maroon 5 Rocks the Funk Zone!
FROM THE FRIDAY RUMOR to Saturday afternoon when the show started, the buzz about the rock band Maroon 5 appearing in the Santa Barbara Funk Zone sped through social media at a rarely seen pace. Montecito resident Adam Levine and the band played the free event on the stage at Validation Ale in support of a new album. The crowds overflowing into the streets created a spontaneous music scene that hundreds enjoyed up close, in the fan crush, and from on top of nearby buildings.
E-Bike Discussions Increase
THE SANTA BARBARA CITY COUNCIL responded Tuesday to a Grand Jury report about e-bike safety issues throughout the city. A letter from the Mayor with information from the police department details a more strict policy. In some cases, that includes impounding illegal e-motorcycles.
NEIGHBORS ARE ASKING FOR ANOTHER STOP SIGN at Bath
St. and Ortega in Santa Barbara after a vehicle crash involving an e-bike on August 16th. Details are under investigation. Two boys went to the hospital with neck braces and injuries. The driver spoke with police.
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.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2025 MUSIC ACADEMY OF THE WEST
Step into a world of Parisian charm and festive elegance as State Street Ballet invites you to celebrate 31 years of artistry, community, and imagination. For sponsorships, tickets, and more information, visit statestreetballet.com
“Shelter is more than a roof over your head”
• A beautiful conversation & presentation of years of alternative building knowledge
• Shelter Publications is a 50-year-old independent publishing company known for its highquality books about home building. Bill Steen
Also a special ALL-DAY Immersion with Lloyd Kahn & Bill Steen Saturday, Sept 6, 9:30-5pm
Lloyd Khan & Bill Steen, joined by 3 local Natural Builders • Learn from the best! $100
EVENTBRITE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lloyd-khan-bill-steen-together-tickets-1538957656779 Hosted By Santa Barbara Permaculture Network www.sbpermaculture.org • Contact Margie@sbpermaculture.org
Lloyd Kahn
Malena Steps Into Tango and Ballet
TANGO MEETS BALLET AT A NIGHTCLUB
is an apt description of Melena, a unique blend of dances to be performed at the Lobero Theatre on September 6th.
“We knew we were onto something and needed to explore this format further,” explained Alejandra Folguera, Founder of Nomad Tango. “The ‘Tango-Show,’ as a dance language, rivals ballet, contemporary, and other classical disciplines — just as tango music can hold its own in any classical concert hall, like the music of Piazzolla.”
The idea for Malena was born last year, when Nomad Tango presented Tango Meets Classical at SOhO. The successful show included tango as a form of dance in dialogue with ballet as an art form during an evening at the nightclub. On one side of the room sat the tango audience, on the other the ballet crowd, and in the middle, a space emerged, the perfect place to co-create a shared experience.
Tango has a different voice. Its popular roots make it the perfect language for the ailments of the modern urban soul — isolation, loss, heartbreak. With that in mind, Malena was created as an original, bold production bringing together two choreographers and two dance companies — Fernanda Ghi (Tango, East Coast) and Meredith Ventura (Contemporary, West Coast). This work explores the frustration of feeling constrained by social constructs and the deep human need for connection and belonging.
Malena is dance-theatre in three acts: Act I – Malena dances an old-style tango, feeling confined and constrained. She longs for freedom. Act II – She breaks from convention, dancing freestyle, alone. Act III – Realizing that “Nobody can save themselves alone” (El Eternauta), she returns to the embrace — but now dances a new kind of tango, one that allows both freedom and connection.
This piece is built by two major voices in modern dance: tango legend Fernanda Ghi from Boston, and rising star of contemporary dance Meredith Ventura from California’s Central Coast.
The performance is presented by Nomad Tango, founded by Alejandra Folguera. Malena is co-produced by Rodney Gustafson, founder of State Street Ballet. For tickets ($27 to $68) call 805-963-0761 or visit www.Lobero.com
ARTIST RECEPTIONS
1st Thursday, August 7, 5pm - 8pm 3rd Friday, August 15, 5pm - 8pm
EXHIBIT DATE S August 2 - August 30, 2025
GALLERY HOURS Monday - Friday 10am-5:30pm Saturday - Sunday 1pm-5pm Or by Appointment (805) 965-6448
Fri, August 29 Fri, August 22
Courtesy
Photo
Putting Actions Into Words: Poets Unite for 805UndocuFund
Hproceeds will go directly to nonprofit 805UndocuFund, which provides essential emergency resources for the immigrant community and their families.
Starkey grew motivated to organize this benefit reading as ICE has adopted increasingly drastic and terrifying tactics nationwide.
men who refuse to identify themselves whisk innocent people off the street, with those people often disappearing into detention centers or removed from the country without a trial,” said Starkey. “805UndocuFund’s Emergency Assistance Fund helps immigrant and migrant families, many of whom are in a lot of peril right now, and I think that’s a cause we should all support.”
include Emily Lord-Kambitsch, Joshua Minjarez, Monica Mody, Marsha de la O, Jesse Pantoja, Crystal AC Salas, and Vecino.
it can sum up complex issues in relatively few words and say important things in new ways,” shared Starkey. “Whatever we can do in these dark days to communicate that magic is essential. Poems embrace ambiguity. They free up our thinking. We need that openness right now.”
craft original poems special to Monday’s event using the SomaGlyph Creative Prompt Deck, a pack of cards with prompts created by artist Adrienne De Guevara. they push you to go in unexpected directions during the creative process,” explained Starkey.
mired in outmoded and unproductive approaches to problem-solving, and I think the SomaGlyph cards are a good start in that direction,” he added.
undocumented and mixed-status families impacted by ICE. Funds help families’ ability to navigate life in the wake of fear and uncertainty, such as assisting with
fees, rent and mortgage payments, and more. To
Poet
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
El Flaco Y Julio Preciado
DANCE IN THE AISLES OF THE ARLINGTON THEATRE when renowned Regional Mexican singer Luis Angel “El Flaco” performs a concert alongside banda singer Julio Preciado at 8pm on Saturday, August 23rd. For tickets ($61-85) visit arlingtontheatresb.com
Friday 8/22
COMEDY
Magic with Gene Urban • Magic and mindreading • Satellite SB, 1117 State St • Free • satellitesb.com • 6-9pm Fri.
Friday Night Laughs • LA Comedians • Java Station • $20 • santabarbaracomedyclub.com • 7pm Fri.
DANCE
Carhartt Family Wines Live Music • Dance, sip wine and food truck • 2939 Grand Ave • Free • carharttfamilywines.com • 5-8pm Fri, 8/22.
Line Dancing at Union • All ages welcome. Boots encouraged • Union, 609 State St • $10 • uniononstate.com • 7pm, Fri 8/22.
Jesse and Joy • El Despecho Tour • Arlington Theatre • $70-$81 • arlingtontheatresb.com • 8pm, Fri, 8/22.
Karaoke Fridays on State • Longoria Wines • 6:30-8:30pm Fri.
OUTDOORS
Going Batty at the Nature Center
• Observe local wild bats • The Neal Taylor Nature Center at Cachuma Lake
• Free • clnaturecenter.org • Dusk, Fri & Sat through Labor Day.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Vivian Storm Performing Drag
• Drag cabaret stage debut featuring Andrew Manos • The Alcazar Theatre • $20 • thealcazar.org • 7-9pm, Fri, 8/22.
Saturday 8/23
CHILDREN
Storytime @ the Sea Center • All ages • Free w/ admission • SBNature.org
• 10:30–10:45am Sat & Sun.
Free Face-painting and Temporary Tattoos • For Children courtesy of Sunny Smiles Dentistry • At The Sea Center • Free • sbnature.org • 11-2pm, Sat, 8/23.
Printing • Carve and print linoleum blocks. Explore new mediums • CAW • $90 • sbprintmakers.com • 10am3pm, Sat, 8/23.
SB GO Club • Play or learn the ancient strategic board game. All levels 805-448-5335 • Free • Mosaic Coffee, 1131 State St • 11-4 Sat.
MUSIC
Intermediate Guitar • Carpenteria Arts Center • Free • carpinteriaartscenter.org • 11am12pm, Sat, 8/23.
LEARN HOW TO SPEAK WITH CHILDREN ABOUT THE EFFECTS OF WAR AND MIGRATION on family legacy when local author Mona Damluji hosts a free storytime reading of her picture book I Want You to Know at Chaucer’s Books at 2pm on Sunday, August 24th. With illustrations by Ishtar Dakhil Bäcklund, I Want You to Know shares the poem Damluji wrote to explain her family’s past in Iraq to her own daughters.
Sage City Band • Songs from the 60’s and beyond • Cold Springs Tavern • Free • coldspringtavern.com • 1:304:30pm, Sat, 8/23.
Japanese Breakfast • Music performance with guest Ginger Root
Evening with Levi Kreis • Broadway with jazz, soul, & rockabilly • Rubicon Theatre • $59-$125 • rubicontheatre.org • 7pm, Sat 8/23. El Flaco Y Julio Preciado • Luis Angel “El Flaco” • Arlington Theatre • $61-$85 • arlingtontheatresb.com • 8pm, Sat 8/23.
Container Gardening • Soils and watering with Matt Straka • SB Botanic Garden • $55 • sbbotanicgarden.org • 9-10:30am, Sat, 8/23.
Power Hour • Workout with Napoleon Jinnies • De La Guerra Pl by Paseo Nuevo Cinemas • Free • 1011am Sat.
Naturetrack Freedom Trax Day and Beach Cleanup • Transforms a manual wheelchair into an all-terrain power chair • Goleta Beach Park • Free • fundforsantabarbara.org • 10am-
2pm, Sat, 8/23.
Architectural Walking Tour • History of buildings in SB • 229 E. Victoria St. • $20 • afsb.org • 10am, Sat.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Pacific Pride Festival: Rooted in Pride • Drag show, DJs, and summer fun for all ages • Chase Palm Park • Free • 11am-7pm, Sat, 8/23. Book Reception • Laura Rasey Miller shows her picture book illustrations for Night of the Cricket • Community Arts Workshop • Free • 3-6pm, Sat, 8/23.
Zoofari Ball: Out of This World • Wild fundraiser • SB Zoo • Sold out • sbzoo.org • 5:30-11pm, Sat, 8/23.
Sunday 8/24
CHILDREN
Storytime With Mona Damluji
• Reading her children’s book I Want You To Know • Chaucer’s Books • Free • chaucersbooks.com • 2-2:45pm Sun, 8/24.
GROOVE ALONG TO ROOTS AND BLUES MUSIC when Grammy-nominated artist Tab Benoit performs familiar hits and numbers off of his new album I Hear Thunder at the Lobero Theatre at 7:30pm on Friday, August 29th. The concert will open with a set from Blues Revival trio GA-20, blending blues, country, and rock-and-roll. For tickets ($46-107) visit lobero.org
LECTURE & WORKSHOPS
Empathy Cafe • Practice listening & empathy • 2040 Alameda Padre Serra, Unit #224 • Free • theempathycenter.org • 11am Su, 8/24.
MUSIC
Sandy Cummings & Jazz in the Bar • Lunch with enjoy live music • SOhO • RSVP for table • sohosb.com • 12:30-3:30pm Sun, 8/24.
Lauren Patten In Concert • Rock, soul, broadway and pop • Rubicon Theatre • $30-$65 • rubicontheatre.org • 7pm, Sun, 8/24.
Mt. Joy • Indie rock band • SB Bowl • $65-$110 • sbbowl.com • 7pm, Sun, 8/24.
OUTDOORS
Domingo Tour • AFSB guided stroll through SB’s Architectural charm • begins at SB Downtown Library • $20 • afsb.org • 10am Sun.
Sundays At The Ranch • Barn animals, outdoor fun & tractor rides. • Rancho La Patera and Stow House • 11am – 2pm Sun.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Feeling Twenty Two • Celebrate 22 years in business at The Closet Trading Co. • 714 State St • Free • 10am Sat, 8/23.
Monday 8/25
DANCE
An Evening with The Waymarkers • Celtic high energy and dance • SOhO • $18 • sohosb.com • 7pm Mon, 8/25.
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
Scrabble Club • Louise Lowry Davis Center • All levels/ English/Spanish • Free • 1-4pm Mon.
AI for Everyone • AI for students, parents, artists, entrepreneurs, and storytellers • Faulkner Gallery • Free • sbartassoc.org • 5-6:30pm Mon, 8/25.
Parliamo • Italian conversation, all levels • Natural Cafe, 361 Hitchcock Way • parliamo.yolasite.com • Free • 5-6:30pm Mon.
MUSIC
The World Is My Home: The Life Of Paul Robeson • Educational tribute to a musical legend • Rubicon Theatre • $45 • rubicontheatre.org • 7pm Mon, 8/25.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Food Distribution • Register and receive free groceries. BYO bags. By the Foodbank of SB County • Westside Neighborhood Center, 432 W Victoria St • Free • foodbanksbc.org • 1-2pm Mon, 8/25.
Chorus Auditions for The Christmas Revels • Be apart of the production of The Celestial Fools ~ A Magical Winter’s Tale. Children and adult roles • Jefferson Hall at the Unitarian Society • RSVP • santabarbararevels.org • 4-5:30pm Mon, 8/25.
Field Trip Preview for Teachers
• For teachers K-12 in SB or Ventura County • SB Museum of Natural History • Free RSVP • sbnature.org • 4-5:30 Mon, 8/25.
Poets Unite for 805
UndocuFund • With six SB Poet Laureates for assistance to undocumented individuals • CAW • $30 • sbcaw.org • 7pm Mon, 8/25.
Tuesday 8/26
CHILDREN
Hidden Haven Grand Opening • Grace Fisher Fdn opens multi-sensory room for neurodivergent children and their families • Eastside Library • 11:30am Tu, 8/26.
COMEDY
Carpinteria Improv Drop-In
Class • Learn improv with friends • Alcazar Theater • $10 at door • thealcazar.org • 7-9pm Tue.
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
Family Caregiver Support Group • Adult survivors of brain injury • zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84933596481 • 9-10am 2nd Tues.
Chess Club • Louise Lowry Davis Center • All levels/ English/Spanish • Free • 1-4pm Tue.
Wednesday 8/27
CHILDREN
Bilingual Music & Movement • Ages 0-5 • SB Public Library • 10:1510:45am, Wed.
Community Science and Volunteer Day
LEARN ABOUT THE NATURAL WORLD AND GIVE BACK TO OUR COMMUNITY when the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden hosts a community science and volunteer day tending to Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens from 10am to 12pm on Saturday, August 30th. Efforts will focus on the native plant garden to teach volunteers how to care for native species. Participation is free with required registration. Visit sbbotanicgarden.org
Read to a Dog • Practice reading with a therapy dog! • Free • Eastside Library • 3-4pm, Wed.
COMEDY
The Book of Moron • Stand up, storytelling and satire • The Rubicon Theatre • $50 • rubicontheatre.org• 7pm Wed, 8/27.
LECTURE & WORKSHOPS
Knitting & Crochet Club • Louise Lowry Davis Ctr • All levels/ English/ Spanish • Free • 9-11:30am Wed.
Mending Matters • Sewing & mending • Explore Ecology, 302 E Cota St • $15 • exploreecology.org • 5:30pm7:30pm Wed.
Le Cercle Français • French conversation, all levels • The Natural Cafe, 361 Hitchcock Way • https://tinyurl.com/5ejbd9ye • Free • 5-6:30pm Wed.
Sip and Swirl • Local wines, cheese and a view • Kimpton Canary Hotel Rooftop • $30 • canarysantabarbara. com • 5:30pm Wed, 8/27.
Thursday 8/28
CHILDREN
Music & Movement • Shoreline Park • calendar.library.santabarbaraca.gov • Free • 10:30-11am, Thu.
Photo courtesy of SB Botanic Garden
Photo by Jean Frank
Theatre
Songs for Nobodies
CELEBRATE SONGS OF RESILIENCE AND INSPIRATION from history’s most iconic women singers, including Judy Garland, Patsy Cline, Billie Holiday, and others when PCPA presents Songs for Nobodies. A one-woman concert by Joanna Murray-Smith, performances will be held August 22nd and 23rd at Santa Maria’s Marian Theatre and from August 28th through September 7th at the Solvang Festival Theatre.
Tickets start at $25. Visit pcpa.org
Theatre Listings:
Something Rotten! • Shakespearean wit with 21st century Broadway flair • Solvang Festival Theater • $25 • pcpa.org • Through 8/23.
“The Seatbelt” and “Call My Son” • Exploring mental health, presented by Shine A Light Theatre program • Ojai Art Center • shinealighttheater.com • $20 • 7:30pm Sat, 8/23 & 2pm Sun, 8/24.
Eleemosynary Auditions • Explores the complex relationship between three headstrong women • Ojai Art Center • Free • ojaiact.org • 8-9:30pm Wed, 8/27.
LECTURE & WORKSHOPS
Sushi & Spice: A Culinary Experience • 18 spaces available with Chef Keizo Fujimaki • Gelson’s • $50 • gelsons.com • 10:30am-12pm Thu, 8/28.
Zen and the Art of Costume
Drawing • Tips, tricks and lessons in animation from a Disney veteran • 707 Gallery • $50 • richwilkie.com • 6-9pm Thu, 8/28.
MUSIC
East Valley Road • With Plastic Harpoons, Pocketfox and more • SOhO • $10 • sohosb.com • 6pm Thur, 8/28.
Jayden Secor • Country and oldschool southern rock • Validation Ale • Free • 6:30pm Thu, 8/28.
Take Me Home: The Music of John Denver • Legacy of John Denver with Jim Curry Live • Rubicon Theatre • $55 • rubicontheatre.org • 7pm Thu, 8/28.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Weekly Protest • Protesting current administration and calling for human rights • Women’s March SB • SB County Courthouse • 4-6pm Thu.
Sunset Ska Party • Live reggae/ ska, dancing and drinks. 21+ • Kimpton Canary Hotel Rooftop • $20 • canarysantabarbara.com • 6pm Fri, 8/29.
Saturday 8/30
Prime Time Band Returns to Plaza del Mar Band Shell
AN ENCORE TO THE CELEBRATED PERFORMANCE INAUGURATING THE NEWLY RESTORED BAND SHELL IN 2024, the Prime Time Band, under the direction of Dr. Paul Mori, will return to the stage for a free program of familiar pops, spirited show tunes, and classic marches on Sunday, August 24th at 2 pm. The event is presented by the Park and Recreation Community Foundation.
“We are ecstatic the Santa Barbara community has embraced this series of wonderful free performances at the newly renovated band shell at Plaza del Mar,” commented Mark Whitehurst, president of the PARC Foundation. “The growing success of these performances has us planning more performances for next year.”
Lies • An allegory about lying in government presented by Drama Dogs • Center Stage Theater • $31 • centerstagetheater.org • 7:30pm, 2pm, 8/28 through 9/6.
Songs For Nobodies • Songs by Judy Garland, Patsy Cline, Edith Piaf, Billie Holiday and Maria Callas • Solvang Festival Theater • $25 • pcpa.org • 8pm Thur, 8/28 through 9/7.
Katerina Mccrimmon: Naked • A Cuban-American performer with her solo Broadway tour • Rubicon Theatre • $55 • rubicontheatre.org • 8pm Sun, 8/31.
Rooted in Radical Joy:
PhotoVoice for Social Justice • Designed for activists, organizers and changemakers • SB Botanic Garden • RSVP by 8/22 • sbfoundation.org • 4pm Thu, 8/28.
2025 State of the County • County government gives key updates • SB South Coast Chamber of Commerce • The Ritz-Carlton Bacara • $100-150 • SBSCChamber.com • 3-5:30pm Thu, 8/28.
COMEDY
South Coast Stand Up Comedy • World class comedians with special guest An Embarrassment of Pandas • The Alcazar Theatre • $15 • thealcazar.org • 7pm Sat, 8/30.
MUSIC
The Folk Legacy Trio • Tunes from the 50’s and 70’s with George Grove and Rick Dougherty • Rubicon Theatre • $70 • rubicontheatre.org • 7pm Sat, 8/30 & 2pm Sun, 8/31.
Candlelight Concert • Music of Vivaldi-The Four Seasons and Queen vs. ABBA • The New Vic • $41-$72 • etcsb.org • 6:30pm, 8:45pm Sat, 8/30. The Sweeps • With Golf Sucks, Rainbow City Park and Bloodsugar • Studio Bar & Soundroom • $10 • studiosoundroom.com • 7pm Sat, 8/30.
Mykal Rose • Reggae icon with militant, roots sound • SOhO • $35 • sohosb.com • 9pm Sat, 8/30.
OUTDOORS
Community Science and Volunteer Day • Study nature and service the environment • Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens • Free • sbbotanicgarden.org • 10am-12pm Sat, 8/30.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Plaza del Mar near Santa Barbara’s harbor, the open-air concert offers the perfect setting for an afternoon of music and a community gathering. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to choose a spot on the lawn and bring blankets or beach chairs to enjoy the performance in comfort.
Title sponsors for the series were: Santa Barbara Beautiful, Montecito Bank & Trust, and the Hutton Parker Foundation. PARC also offered a special thank you to the Santa Barbara Park & Recreation Department.
For more information visit: ptband.org/concert-events and parcsb.org
Twilight Tour • Stroll the garden on a self guided tour • Montecito Branch Library • $75 • santabarbara.com • 4:30-6:30pm Sat, 8/30.
Library On The Go • Browse books for adults and children • SB Highschool Swapmeet • Free • library.santabarbaraca.gov • 8am-1pm Sat, 8/30.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Ice In Paradise Blood Drive • In partnership with Vitalant. All donors skate for free • Ice In Paradise • Free • iceinparadise.org • 12pm Sat, 8/30.
Sunday 8/31
MUSIC
Teresa Russell • Blues and Rock band • Cold Springs Tavern • Free • coldspringtavern.com • 1:30-4:30pm Sun, 8/31.
Calibre 50 • Mexican Banda Groups including Cuisillos, Industria Del Amor and more • Earl Warren Showgrounds • $ • www.vmg.com • 4pm-12am Sun, 8/31. The Local Folk • With Chris Beland and Ray Williams • SOhO • $15 • sohosb.com • 6pm Sun, 8/31.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Tailgate PCO Finals • Watch the winner take the trophy • SB Polo and Racquet Club • $200-$400 • sbpolo.com • 3pm Sun, 8/31.
International Overdose Awareness Day Candlelight Vigil • Honor those impacted by overdose and harmful divisive immigration policies • SB Courthouse Sunken Gardens • Free • familiesact.org • 7:30-9pm Sun, 8/31.
Photo courtesy of Michael Brosilow and Northlight Theatre Productions
CINEMA
Enjoy watching how one little puppy can cause a whole lot of chaos, love, and laughter when UCSB Arts & Lectures hosts a free screening of Marley & Me at the SB Courthouse Sunken Gardens at 8:30pm on Friday, August 22nd. Guests may begin setting up permeable blankets and low-rise chairs at noon on Friday. Arrive early to the screening for music from KLITE 101.7 FM and the chance to win raffle prizes.
CINEMA LISTINGS
Friday Movie Night • Free outdoor movies all Aug, this week Babe • Montecito Country Mart • 6pm Fridays through 8/29.
Free Summer Cinema: Marley and Me • UCSB Arts & Lectures • Heartfelt family classic under the stars, bring blankets and lawn chairs • Courthouse Sunken Gardens • Free • downtownsb.org • 8:30pm, Fri, 8/22.
The Coastal Media Project 2025 • Student project films presented by The CarseyWolf Center • Pollock Theater • Free RSVP • carseywolf.ucsb.edu • 7-9:30pm, Fri, 8/22.
Born To Be Wild: The Story of Steppenwolf • Benefit screening for the Maue Kay Foundation • Lobero Theatre • $30-$75 • lobero.org • 7pm, Sat, 8/23.
Deep Rising Documentary Screening
• Hosted by environmental activist Peggy Oki with Q&A • The Alcazar Theatre • $5 • thealcazar.org • 6:30-9pm Wed, 8/27.
Free Summer Cinema: Dog • Hosted by UCSB Arts and Lectures. A road-trip comedy starring Channing Tatum • SB Courthouse Sunken Gardens • Free • artsandlectures.ucsb. edu • 8:30pm Fri, 8/29.
Desolation Center • Screening a documentary, Q&A with Johanna Went and Live performance by Mike Watt • Rubicon Theatre • $45 • rubicontheatre.org • 7pm Fri, 8/29.
Let’s Go To The M O V I E S
Community News
Santa Barbara Humane Breaks Ground for Campus Transformation and Announces One805 Collaboration
Contributed by Marissa Miller, Santa Barbara Humane
MARKING THE BEGINNING OF THE FIRST MAJOR TRANSFORMATION OF ITS SANTA BARBARA CAMPUS in more than 60 years, Santa Barbara Humane hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking this week. The groundbreaking welcomed 150 guests, including Goleta Mayor Pro Tempore Stuart Kasdin, Supervisor Laura Capps, Board Chair John Corby, CEO Kerri Burns, and Wyatt family members Crystal, Cliff, and Siena. Joined by alumni dogs Nanook and Eve, along with adoptable shelter dog Po, they took the ceremonial first dig. Guests, community members, and vendors who contributed time and resources were also invited to participate, underscoring the shared commitment to the project. Refreshments from Lauren Weithorn of Village Coffee added to the day’s celebratory spirit.
“This is an investment in the future of animal welfare and in the well-being of our entire community,” said Santa Barbara Humane CEO Kerri Burns. “Our new facilities will help us care for more animals, support more families, and
Santa Barbara Humane Society also Breaking Campaign Ground are “Nanook” with Miranda; “Po” (who is adoptable) with Carol; and “Eve” with Jason
South Coast Chamber to Host State of the County
AN UPDATE ON THE FUTURE OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY will be hosted by the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, August 28th at the RitzCarlton Bacara.
“This event is at the heart of our mission to connect the business community with all levels of government,” said Kristen Miller, President and CEO of the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce.
Featured speakers include Santa Barbara County Second District Supervisor and Chair Laura Capps, County Executive Officer Mona Miyasato, First District Supervisor Roy Lee, and Peter Rupert, Director of the UC Santa Barbara Economic Forecast Project.
The event is a unique platform for local business leaders to hear timely updates from Santa Barbara County officials and engage in meaningful conversation about the region’s future.
“While city and state issues often get more attention, county government plays a critical role in shaping our housing, economy, infrastructure, and quality of life. The State of the County offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from those leading these efforts,” continued Miller.
The event takes place Thursday, August 28th, from 3 to 5:30pm at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, 8301 Hollister Ave, Santa Barbara. For tickets and Information: SBSCChamber.com
Campaign Enthusiasts included Mayor Pro Tem Tom Kasdan, Supervisor Laura Capps, John Corby and Kerri Burns, CEO. With Humane Campaign Supporters
provide expanded education and outreach programs for generations to come.”
The campus transformation project will be completed in carefully planned phases, allowing the organization to remain fully open for adoptions, affordable veterinary care, dog training, and other vital services while construction is underway.
Phase I will include a new Community Intake Center, a dedicated Dog Behavior Center, multiple play yards, and a welcoming new entrance for visitors and volunteers. These improvements will provide faster, more compassionate intake, greater enrichment opportunities for dogs, and a more accessible and inviting campus experience for the public. With 80 percent of the $18 million Phase 1 goal already raised, the campaign is well on its way to success.
Phase 2 of the project, estimated at $46 million, will build on the initial upgrades to create a fully reimagined campus. Once complete, the transformation will include expanded medical facilities, modern adoption spaces for dogs, cats, and rabbits, and an Education Center designed to host school field trips, workshops, and community events. Sustainable features such as drought-tolerant landscaping, animal-friendly outdoor areas, and a solar microgrid will reflect Santa Barbara Humane’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Alongside this major capital project, Santa Barbara Humane announced a new partnership with One805 to provide free, high-quality veterinary care for every law enforcement and fire department K9 in Santa Barbara County. Care will be available at the organization’s campuses in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria, as well as through its mobile clinic, and will include routine checkups, preventative care, and treatment for injuries or illnesses sustained in the line of duty.
“These K9s are more than just working animals. They are trusted partners who put themselves in harm’s way to protect our communities,” said Burns. “This partnership ensures they get the top-notch care they deserve.”
Richard Weston-Smith, COO of One805, added, “First Responders rely on their K9 partners in some of the most dangerous and challenging situations imaginable. By teaming up with Santa Barbara Humane, we are making sure these incredible animals get the best possible care so they can stay healthy, effective, and ready to serve. It is another way we can give back to those who give everything for us, both the two-legged and four-legged heroes.”
Founded more than 135 years ago, Santa Barbara Humane is one of the oldest animal welfare organizations in California. Today, the organization acts as a social service agency for people with pets and pets without people, serving thousands of animals and people each year through adoptions, low-cost veterinary care, dog training, a pet supply pantry, and emergency boarding during times of crisis. The campus transformation and the One805 partnership both refl ect Santa Barbara Humane’s mission to be a lasting resource for people and pets and to create a more humane community for all.
Santa Barbara Humane invites community members to learn more, contribute, and follow the project’s progress at sbhumane.org/vision
The Producer Price Index for final demand rose 0.9 percent in July, seasonally adjusted, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Final demand prices were unchanged in June and moved up 0.4 percent in May. BLS.gov
By Harlan Green, Special to VOICE
THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION WANTS
AMERICANS TO BELIEVE the current inflationary surge is temporary. Why? Because it needs the Fed to lower interest rates to keep economic growth from stalling due to the tariffs. And lowering interest rates in what is still a fully-employed economy is inflationary.
It’s the kind of reverse logic that has characterized so much of the MAGA crowd that wants to believe conspiracies rather than economic realities.
The Producer Price Index of wholesale goods just out is another unwelcome fact that inflation isn’t temporary because of the tariffs. The tariffs paid by American importers at ports of entry are already showing up in the prices of raw materials that producers must pay which will ultimately be
passed on to American consumers and businesses.
The PPI is showing July wholesale prices (dark line) have risen much faster than retail prices (light line) in the FRED graph, right—3.3 percent vs. 2.7 percent in a year.
Coffee prices are already up 15 percent, for instance. Could that have to do with the 50 percent tariff Trump has levied on Brazil, a major coffee grower, because he doesn’t like its socialist government?
because material input costs have been rising since April 2nd and the announcement of the tariff wars, which belies Trump’s lies that the countries exporting to us will bear the cost of those import taxes for the great privilege of selling to US, yet are ultimately paid by Americans!
months. This deterioration largely stems from rising worries about inflation. Buying conditions for durables plunged 14 percent, its lowest reading in a year, on the basis of high prices,” reports survey Director Joanne Hsu.
By Harlan Green
An unfavorable PPI is another measure of inflation the Trump administration will want to ‘cook’ if their choice for a new head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics is confirmed by the Senate. It prices the raw materials and services that go into the retail CPI Index that measures the final consumption of finished products and services. That’s no surprise
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: Computer Oriented RE Technology For Information on all Real Estate Sales: 805-962-2147 • JimWitmer@cox.net • Cortsb.com
Santa Barbara South County Sales
All eyes are now on what Fed Chair Powell will say at the Kansas Fed’s Jackson Hole conference this week. Will the 12 Fed Governors that vote at the FOMC meetings decide once again that there is little likelihood of an interest rate cut in September?
They may have to, because the biggest rise in wholesale prices was in the service sector that powers almost two-thirds of consumer activities (leisure, travel, dining out, transportation, and construction).
The index for final demand services moved up 1.1 percent in July, the largest advance since rising 1.3 percent in March 2022. It showed importers are also increasing their profit margins and so passing on the increased costs to consumers and businesses.
Over half of the broad-based July increase is attributable to margins for final demand trade services, which jumped 2.0 percent. (Trade indexes measure changes in margins received by wholesalers and retailers.)
And consumers are beginning to notice, according to the University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment survey.
“Consumer sentiment fell back about five percent in August, declining for the first time in four
Santa Barbara Mortgage Interest Rates
Contact your local loan agent or mortgage broker for current rates: DRAPER & KRAMER MORTGAGE CORP.
Please call for current rates: Russell Story, 805-895-8831 PARAGON MORTGAGE GROUP
Please call for current rates: 805-899-1390
HOMEBRIDGE FINANCIAL SERVICES
Please call for current rates: Erik Taiji, 805-895-8233, NMLS #322481
MONTECITO BANK & TRUST
Please call for current rates: 805-963-7511 • Coastal Housing Partnership Member
SB MORTGAGE GROUP
Simar Gulati, 805-403-9679
U.S. BANK
Please call for current rates: Teri Gauthier, 805-565-4571
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT: The following Corporation is doing business as RIVIERA MEDICAL SPA at 1722 State St., Suite 101, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. ADAM LOWENSTEIN, MD, INC. at 1722 State St., Suite 101, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on July 23, 2025. 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. 2025-0001745. Published August 1, 8, 15, 22, 2025.
It hasn’t done much damage to retail sales just yet, though. Retail sales rose 0.5 percent last month following a nearly one percent increase in June, reports the Census Bureau.
Automobile sales rose for the second month in a row, said
MarketWatch’s Jeffry Bartash. Car buyers have been buying vehicles for the past few months to once again avoid anticipated price increases in the coming months as tariffs take full effect.
So the damage is already being done by Donald Trump’s tariffs. Even grocery prices that depend on what is produced domestically are soaring. Now, why would grocery prices also be increasing that aren’t taxed by tariffs? Could it be that there are fewer farm workers to harvest the crops this year? The ICE folks could answer that question!
CASA Santa Barbara, Inc. Mailing Address: 217 Sherwood Dr Santa Barbara, CA 93110 Office Address: La Cumbre Plaza, 110 S. Hope Ave, H-124, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 (805) 965-6448 • Established 1993
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NOTICE OF PUBLICATIONS ON APPLICATIONS REGARDING PROVISIONS OF TITLE 28 AND/OR 30 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF SANTA BARBARA (SBMC)
The Secretary of the Planning Commission has set a public hearing for Thursday, September 4, 2025 beginning at 1:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 735 Anacapa Street.
On Thursday, August 28, 2025, an Agenda with all items to be heard on Thursday, September 4, 2025 will be posted on the outdoor bulletin board at City Hall, 735 Anacapa Street, and online at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/PC. Agendas, Minutes, and Staff Reports are also accessible online at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/PC.
TELEVISION COVERAGE: This meeting will be broadcast live on City TV-Channel 18 and online at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/CityTV. See SantaBarbaraCA.gov/CityTVProgramGuide for a rebroadcast schedule. An archived video of this meeting will be available at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/PCVideos.
WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENT: Public comments may be submitted via email to PCSecretary@SantaBarbaraCA.gov before the beginning of the Meeting. All public comments submitted via email will be provided to the Commission and will become part of the public record. You may also submit written correspondence via US Postal Service (USPS) addressed to PC Secretary, PO Box 1990, Santa Barbara, CA 93102-1990. However, please be advised, correspondence sent via USPS may not be received in time to process prior to the meeting and email submissions are highly encouraged. Please note that the Commission may not have time to review written comments received after 4:30 p.m. the Tuesday before the meeting.
All public comment that is received before 4:30 p.m. the Tuesday before the meeting will be published on the City’s website at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/PC. Comments provided via USPS or e-mail will be converted to a PDF before being posted on the City’s website. Note: comments will be published online the way they are received and without redaction of personal identifying information; including but not limited to phone number, home address, and email address. Only submit information that you wish to make available publicly.
APPEALS: Decisions of the Planning Commission may be appealed to the City Council. For further information and guidelines on how to appeal a decision to City Council, please contact the City Clerk’s office at Clerk@ SantaBarbaraCA.gov as soon as possible. Appeals may be filed in person at the City Clerk’s office at City Hall or in writing via email to Clerk@SantaBarbaraCA.gov and by first class mail postage prepaid within 10 calendar days of the meeting at which the Commission took action or rendered its decision. Appeals and associated fee postmarked after the 10th calendar day will not be accepted.
NOTE TO INTERESTED PARTIES: Only those persons who participate through public comment either orally or in writing on an item on this Agenda have standing to appeal the decision. Grounds for appeal are limited to those issues raised either orally or in written correspondence delivered to the review body at, or prior to, the public hearing.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: If you need services or staff assistance to attend or participate in this meeting, please contact the City Administrator’s Office at (805) 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.
Applicant / Owner: Heidi Jones, Meraki Land Use Consulting / Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital
Project Description: Initiation of Specific Plan/General Plan & Zoning Amendment
Legal Notices
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE – CHANGE OF NAME, CASE NUMBER : 25CV04386
Petitioner: Brian William Center filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Brian William Center to PROPOSED NAME: Brian William Ivie. 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: October 3, 2025; Time: 10:00 am; Dept.: 4; 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: 7/24/2025 /s/: Donna D. Geck, Judge of the Superior Court. Legal #25CV04386 Pub Dates: August 8, 15, 22, 29, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT: The following Corporation is doing business as MORA XTREME SOCCER INC at 338 Betteravia Road, C, Santa Maria, CA 93454. MORA XTREME SOCCER INC at 1631 S. Rose Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93033. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on August 1, 23, 2025. 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. 2025-0001833. Published August 8, 15, 22, 29, 2025.
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Petitioner: Christina Lynne Ruiz filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Brisa Milana Arlington to PROPOSED NAME: Anya Brisa Milana Arlington. 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: September 12, 2025; Time: 10:00 am; Dept.: 4; 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: 7/16/2025 /s/: Donna D. Geck, Judge of the Superior Court. Legal #25CV04112 Pub Dates: August 8, 15, 22, 29, 2025.
Santa Barbara Symphony & State Street Ballet
A Bold New Production of Romeo & Juliet
PROKOFIEV’S ROMEO AND JULIET: A BALLET IN ONE ACT, is a poignant retelling of Shakespeare’s story of love and tragedy. It will also be the season opener for both the State Street Ballet and the Santa Barbara Symphony on October 18th and 19th at the Granada Theatre.
“This production reflects the ongoing creative partnership between the Santa Barbara Symphony and State Street Ballet,” shared Kathryn R. Martin, President & CEO of the Santa Barbara Symphony.
Under the skilled baton of Maestro Nir Kabaretti and featuring original choreography by SSB Artistic Director Megan Philipp and Artistic Associate Nilas Martins (former principal dancer with New York City Ballet), audiences will be transported through the emotional arc of the story, from the innocence of young love and the intensity of deeprooted feuds to its heartrending conclusion.
“Our mission has always been to make ballet accessible, exciting, and relevant. This season is an invitation to experience dance in ways you’ve never imagined as we explore how storytelling and ballet can evolve together,”
noted Cecily MacDougall, Executive Director of State Street Ballet.
The first half of the program will feature Shostakovich’s spirited Festive Overture and Rachmaninoff’s luxuriant Symphonic Dances, setting the tone for a dynamic year ahead.
“After nearly two decades of conducting for this artsloving community, it’s thrilling to begin my 20th anniversary season with a program as dynamic and emotionally rich as Romeo & Juliet,” added Maestro Nir Kabaretti, Music & Artistic Director of the Santa Barbara Symphony.
The concerts are made possible through the generous support of State Street Ballet New Work Production Sponsor Cheryl Goldberg and Santa Barbara Symphony’s Season Sponsor Sarah & Roger Chrisman, Corporate Season Sponsor Montecito Bank & Trust, and Grand Venue Season Sponsor The Granada Theatre.
Tickets are now on sale through the Granada Theatre Box Office at granadasb.org, by phone at 805-899-2222, or in person at 1214 State Street.
Artist Studios to Open Labor Day Weekend Kick Off Reception at CAW
IF YOU LOVE ART OR TALKING TO ARTISTS, Labor Day weekend in Santa Barbara offers myriad treasures to discover. For the last two dozen years, Santa Barbara Studio Artists have hosted their annual Open Studios Tour to introduce up and coming and seasoned professional artists to visitors. This year 28 studios will open their doors.
The tour has evolved to include an opening preview reception with the artists where studio visitors can get a look at a piece by each artist as they plan their weekend. This year the reception will take place on Friday, August 29th from 5 to 8pm at the Community Arts Workshop at 631 Garden Street.
Each artist has their own reasons for participating but connection and community are a central theme. “I enjoy sharing
2025 Participating
Santa
Montecito: Anne
the stories that accompany my art work and what inspires me. It’s also a great way to create relationships with your collectors,” shared Kerrie Smith.
Brian Woolford added that it is an opportunity for artists, “to get valuable feedback about the work that they are doing from visitors that have committed to an art weekend.”
Kathy Leader, related, “I love sharing what motivates me as an artist, my concepts, techniques and why I do it in the first place! I hope to light a creative fire in my audience so that they think of art from a broader perspective than when they entered the studio. I want them to feel inspired.”
For the public, Leader added, “Many wonderful artists in Santa Barbara are not known or visible. This is a wonderful opportunity to discover unseen new work. By visiting the actual artists’ studios you can gain deep insight into their process while engaging with them directly.”
Smith agreed, “I like to think it exposes art enthusiasts to more diverse artists and gives them an opportunity to see real artist studios and a peak at artists process.”
Tricia Evenson explained, “The studio tour offers artists a rare opportunity to showcase their full body of work in one place, while giving visitors an intimate, firsthand look into their creative domains and processes. SBSA tours also foster meaningful connections between the Santa Barbara artist community and the public—bringing people together in a down-to-earth, fun, and engaging way.”
The tour is also for art buyers, and many plan a visit to Santa Barbara to participate. As Woolford noted, it is “a chance to meet the Artist in their working environment and learn about the process. Many buyers are buying not just the art but the Artist.” That meeting and personal connection can make the purchase more meaningful and more comfortable.
A ticketed tour, a portion of funds raised will support this year’s non-profit beneficiary, the Grace Fisher Foundation. The tour will run Saturday through Monday, August 30th to September 1st, 11am to 5pm.
Purchase a ticket and download the map or visit CAW to purchase in person during the reception and the tour. To help tour guests find their studio, artists raise yellow flags,
West
and
Pamela Benham, Stan Evenson, Tricia Evenson, Kevin Gleason, Francine Kirsch, Marilyn McRae, Cathy Quiel, Eric Saint Georges, Ann Sanders, Kerrie Smith, Marlene Struss, and Gerry Winant.
For more information about the 2025 Open Studios Tour, visit www.santabarbarastudioartists.com or call 805-280-9178.
welcoming to visitors from near and far. This year’s tour includes 28 member studios displaying work in a variety of media: oils, acrylics, watercolors, collage, mixed media, paper, and more.
The Grace Fisher Foundation, connects individuals with disabilities to art, music, and dance. The foundation was inspired by Grace Fisher, whose journey of resilience and creativity continues to impact lives through the Inclusive Arts Clubhouse at La Cumbre Plaza Gallery Row in Santa Barbara. Tickets ($25) are available online at SantaBarbaraStudioArtists.com and at CAW during the reception and for the entire weekend. Children under 12 are free.
artists:
Barbara and
Anderson, Misa Art, Sophia Beccue, Danuta Bennett, Ann Shelton Beth, Sophie Cooper, Leslie Ekker (new member), Karen Fedderson, Anita Kaplan (new member), Kathy Leader, Cynthia Martin, Sarita Reynolds (new member), Joan Rosenberg-Dent, Francis Scorzelli, Susan Tibbles, Brian Woolford.
Santa Barbara, Hope Ranch,
Goleta:
Brian Woolford
Sea Colors by featured artist Brian Woolford
Sophia Beccue
Hidden Message by featured artist Sophia Beccue
Tricia Evenson
Blazing Horizon by featured artist Tricia Evenson
Kerrie Smith
By featured artist Kerrie Smith
Featured artist Kathy Leader with a sampling of her work
Brian Woolford
LCCCA Illuminations Gallery La Cumbre Plaza woolfordb@gmail.com
10 West Gallery • Shades of Summer through Sept 14 • 10 W Anapamu • 11-5 We-Mo • 805-7707711 • 10westgallery.com
707 Gallery • Santa Barbara Visual Artists Summer exhibition through August • Paseo Nuevo #707 • 11-7 daily • sbvisualartists.com
Architectural Fdn Gallery • 229 E Victoria • 805-965-6307 • 1–4 some Sa & By Appt • afsb.org
Art & Soul Gallery • ¡Viva La Fiesta! Pedro De La Cruz through Aug 31 • 1323 State St • artandsoulsb.com
Art From Scrap • Explore Ecology: Environmental Educ. & Artistic Expression • exploreecology.org Atkinson Gallery, SBCC • gallery.sbcc.edu
Bella Rosa Galleries • 1103-A State St • 11-5 daily • 805-966-1707
The Carriage and Western Art Museum • SB History Makers: Silsby Spalding, WW Hollister, Dixie; Saddle & Carriage Collections • Free • 129 Castillo St • 805-962-2353 • 9-3 MoFr • carriagemuseum.org
California Nature Art Museum • Yosemite: Sanctuary in Stone, Photographs by William Neill through Sep 1 • 1511 B Mission Dr, Solvang • 11-4 Mo, Th, Fr; 11-5 Sa & Su • calnatureartmuseum.org
Casa de La Guerra • Telling Stories of Mexican California: Real Life & Myth Making • Through Aug 31 • $5/ Free • 15 East De la Guerra St • 12-4 Th-Su • sbthp.org/casadelaguerra
ART VENUES
RUTH ELLEN HOAG www.ruthellenhoag.com @ruthellenhoag 805-689-0858 ~inquire for studio classes~
Casa del Herrero • Gardens & House • by reservation • 1387 East Valley Rd • tours 10 & 2 We & Sa • 805-565-5653 • casadelherrero.com
Casa Dolores • Bandera Ware / traditional outfits ~ ongoing • 1023 Bath St • 12-4 Tu-Sa • 805-963-1032 • casadolores.org
Channing Peake Gallery • Form and Frame: Abstraction, Community, and the Language of Art • 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 • James Paul Brown A Joyful Vision & gallery artists • 125 N Milpas • 11-5 We-Sa • 805966-7939 • corridan-gallery.com
CPC Gallery • By appt • 36 E Victoria St • cpcgallery.com
Cypress Gallery • Creating Through Chaos: Manic Creative • through Aug 24; Impressions of La Purisma ~ Aug 28- Sep 28 • 119 E Cypress Av, Lompoc • 1-4 Sa & Su • 805-737-1129 • lompocart.org
Elizabeth Gordon Gallery • Contemporary Artists • 15 W Gutierrez • 805-963-1157 • 11–5 TuSa • elizabethgordongallery.com
El Presidio De Santa Bárbara • Nihonmachi Revisited; Memorias y Facturas • 123 E Canon Perdido St • 10:30-4:30 Daily • sbthp.org
Elverhøj Museum • Suzi Trubitz: Through the Years • through Sept 1 • history & Danish culture of Solvang • 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang • 805686-1211 • 11-5 Th-Mo • elverhoj.org
Faulkner Gallery • 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
Gallery 113 • SB Art Assn • 1114 State St, #8, La Arcada Ct • 805965-6611 • 11-5 Mo-Sa; 1-4 Su • gallery113sb.com
Gallery Los Olivos • Rhapsody In hue: Vicki Andersen & Neil Andersson • through Aug 31 • Daily 10-4pm • 2920 Grand Av • 805-688-7517 • gallerylosolivos.com
Grace Fisher Fdn • Inclusive Arts Clubhouse • Paintings by Grace Fisher • 121 S Hope, La Cumbre Plaza • We-Su 11-5pm • gracefisherfoundation.org
Indah Gallery • 12-5 Fri-Sun • 2190 N Refugio Rd, Santa Ynez https://www.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
Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum • Monarchy: Power, Intrigue, and Legacy: focusing on notable European monarchs, and their reigns• through Sept 30; a million+ historical documents • 21-23
W Anapamu • 10-4 Tu-Su • 805-9625322 • karpeles.com
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 Stuido/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 • Open theme from local artists through Sep 28 • 12-4 Th-Su • 865 Linden • 805-684-7789 • carpinteriaartscenter.org
Maker House • 1351 Holiday Hill Rd • 805-565-CLAY • 10-4 Daily • makerhouse.org
Ralph Waterhouse
Waterhouse Gallery
La Arcada at State & Figueroa Santa Barbara • 805-962-8885 www.waterhousegallery.com
Marcia Burtt Gallery • Tranquility: through Aug 31• Contemporary Plein Air • Landscape paintings, prints, & books • 517 Laguna St • 1-5 Th-Su • 805-962-5588 • artlacuna.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 • Cole Sternberg: the wind is heavy which blows between a horse’s ears, through Sept 28 • 11-6pm Tu-Sun • 653 Paseo Nuevo • mcasantabarbara.org
MCASB Satellite @ the Riviera Beach House • In Motion: Marie McKenzie & Marlene Struss through Oct 12 • 9am-9pm Daily • 121 State St • mcasantabarbara.org
Patricia Clarke Studio • 410 Palm Av, Carpinteria • By Appt • 805-4527739 • patriciaclarkestudio.com
Peregrine Galleries • Early CA & American paintings; fine vintage jewelry • 1133 Coast Village Rd • 805252-9659 • peregrine.shop
Peter Horjus Design • Studio • 11 W Figueroa St • peterhorjus.com
Portico Gallery • Jordan Pope & Gallery Artists • Open Daily • 1235 Coast Village Rd • 805-729-8454 • porticofinearts.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 • Join the Enlichenment through Dec 7 • 1212 Mission Canyon Rd • 10-5 daily • 805-682-4726 • sbbg.org
Santa Barbara Fine Art • SB landscapes & sculptor Bud Bottoms • 1321 State St • 12-6 Tu-Sa & By Appt • 805-845-4270 • santabarbarafineart.com
Santa Barbara Historical Museum • Project Fiesta: through Sept; 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 Museum • The Swiftest Recovery: Island Fox Chronicles through Aug 24; 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 •
Evening Light, Santa Barbara Courthouse - featuring in an exhibition at Palm Loft Gallery, Carpinteria
805-962-8404 • SBMM.org
Santa Barbara Museum Of Art
• Math + Art through Aug 24 • Sea of Ice: Echoes of the European Romantic Era through Aug 24; Proscenium: Elliott Hundley through Aug 31; By Achilles’ Tomb: Elliott Hundley and Antiquity @ SBMA through Feb 22; Vian Sora: Outerworlds through Sept 7; Letterforms through Sep 14; Tibetan Paintings through Aug 17 • 1130 State St • 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 • Butterflies Alive! through Sep 1; Drawn from Nature through Sep 7 • 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 (Fr & Sat 10-7 until 7/27). • 805-6824711 • sbnature.org
Santa Barbara Tennis Club - 2nd Fridays Art • Marianna
Victoria Mashek: In Pursuit of Beauty through Aug 23 • 2375 Foothill Rd • 10-6 Daily • 805-682-4722 • 2ndfridaysart.com
Santa Ynez Vallery Historical Museum • From Trauma to Hope: Stories of Foster Care • 3596 Sagunto St • sbcasa.oeg • 12-4pm Wed-Sun.
Sahyun Genealogical Library
• 1925 Santa Barbara Earthquake: Stories and Lives Remembered • 316 Castillo St • Tue/Thu 10-4; Sun & 3rd Sat 1-4 • https://SBGen.org
Seimandi & Leprieur • Fertilum by French-Caribbean artist Ricardo Ozier-Lafontaine • through Oct 5 • 33 W Anapamu St. • Wed-Sat 11-6 • 805-610-1203 • seimandileprieur.com
Slice of Light Gallery • Ben Coffman; Passage: Photography by JK Lovelace • 9 W Figueroa St • Mo-Fr 10-5 • 805-354-5552 • sliceoflight.com
Stewart Fine Art • Early CA Plein Air Paintings + European Fine Art + Antiques • 539 San Ysidro Rd • 115:30 Mo-Sa • 805-845-0255
Sullivan Goss • Robin Gowen: A Wild Hush through Sep 22; The Fateful Eight through Aug 25; Summer Salon II through Sep 22 • 11 E Anapamu St • 10-5:30 daily • 805730-1460 • sullivangoss.com
Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum • 122 W Canon
SYV Historical Museum & Carriage House • Art of The Western Saddle • ongoing • 3596
Sagunto St, SY • 12-4 Sa, Su • 805688-7889 • santaynezmuseum.org
Tamsen Gallery • Agrios by Komatis • 1309 State St • 12-5 We-Su • 805-705-2208 • tamsengallery.com
UCSB Library • Creative Currents through Sep 16 • library.ucsb.edu
Voice Gallery • Santa Barbara Visual Arts through August • La Cumbre Plaza H-124 • 10-5:30 M-F; 1-5 Sa-Su • 805-965-6448 • voicesb.art
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
ART EVENTS
Ribbon Cutting and Grand
Opening • Exclusive VIP reception for new location at 1011 State St • Fazzino 3D Studio Gallery • Free • fazzino.com • 12pm Fri, 8/22.
Night of the Cricket • Laura Rasey Miller exhibition at CAW • An Exhibit of Picture Book Illustrations • Reception and Book Party — 3-6pm Sat, 8/23; Exhibit 11am-5pm 8/22-24.
Opening Preview Reception 24th SB Studio Artists Tour • Meet the artists before embarking on a tour to explore private workspaces of professional artists • CAW • $25 for reception and tour • santabarbarastudioartists.com • 5-8pm Fri, 8/29.
Westmont Ridley-Tree Museum Of Art • Building A Collection: 2008 - 2025, Honoring Judy L. Larson • through Aug • Weekdays 10-4, Sat 11-5 • westmont.edu/museum
Artists: See your work here!
Join Voice Magazine’s Print & Virtual Gallery! To find out more, email Publisher@VoiceSB.com
An Ensemble of Creatives Reaches a Creative Finale
WITH AUGUST AND SUMMER COMING TO A CLOSE, one of the last exhibitions by the Santa Barbara Visual Artists will come to a close at VOICE Gallery on August 30th. With 25 artists, the Summer Exhibit is a delightful dance between sculpture and two dimensional works.
One of the co-founders of SBVA, and the energy behind it exhibiting almost every month at one venue or another, Jan Baker has decided to retire from her leadership position and the group will disband once their current exhibits at VOICE and Gallery 707 wrap.
What’s particularly special about the VOICE exhibit is the strong presence of sculpture with multiple pieces by longtime area stone carver JoAnne Duby and sculptor/ceramicist Francine Kirsch set against portraits, abstracts, landscapes, photography, and florals of the other SBVA members, including four pastels by Baker.
You won’t want to miss this exhibition. As of printing, it’s seven days and counting!
Handbuilding With Elise
Arnold • Experience clay making a vase, mug or unique art • Maker House Classroom • $65 • canvas.makerhouse.org • 5:307:30pm Mon.
SB Arts & Crafts Show • Local artists & artisans • Free • 236 E Cabrillo Blvd • 10-5 Sun.
Carpinteria Creative Arts Market • Local pottery, beach art, cards, jewelry, and sewn articles • 8th St & Linden Av • Free • 2:30-6 Thur.
Works by Santa Barbara Visual Artists at VOICE Gallery
The US Can End the Gaza Genocide Now
By Jeffrey D. Sachs & S. Fares / August 20, 2025 / Common Dreams
An immediate UN Security Council vote to grant Palestine permanent membership in the UN next month would put an end to Israel’s zealous delusions of permanent control over Palestine. It cannot happen without US backing.
President Donald Trump wants a Nobel Peace Prize, and his efforts toward peace in Ukraine, if successful, could possibly help him earn one—but only if he also ends US complicity in the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Under Trump, as under former President Joe Biden, the US has served as Israel’s partner in mass murder, annexation, starvation, and the escalating torment of millions of Palestinians. The genocide can, and will, stop if Trump wills it. So far he has not.
Israel is committing genocide—everyone knows it, even its staunchest defenders. The Israeli human rights organization B’Tselem has recently made a poignant acknowledgment of “Our Genocide.” In Foreign Affairs, former U.S. Ambassador to Israel Jack Lew recently admitted that extremist parties in Netanyahu’s government openly aim to starve Palestinians in Gaza. Lew frames his piece as praise for the former Biden administration (and for himself) for their supposedly valiant efforts to prevent mass starvation by pressuring Israel to allow minimal food entry, while blaming Trump for easing that pressure.
Yet the actual importance of the piece is that an ardent Zionist insider certifies the genocidal agenda sustaining Netanyahu’s rule. Lew recounts that in the aftermath of October 7, Israelis frequently pledged that “not a drop of water, not a drop of milk, and not a drop of fuel will go from Israel to Gaza,” a stance that still shapes Israel’s cabinet policy. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) can use Lew’s article as confirmation of Israel’s genocidal intent.
The genocide in Gaza, coupled with the annexation in the West Bank, aims to fulfill the Likud vision of a Greater Israel that exercises territorial control between the Sea and Jordan. This will destroy any possibility of a Palestinian state, and any possibility of peace. Indeed, Bezalel Smotrich, the extremist minister of finance and minister in the ministry of defense, recently vowed to “permanently bury the idea of a Palestinian state” while the Knesset has recently called for annexation of the occupied West Bank.
The US aids and protects Israel every day in these horrific crimes against the Palestinian people. The US provides billions of dollars in military support, goes to war alongside Israel, and offers diplomatic cover for Israel’s crimes against humanity. The vacuous mantra that “Israel has the right to defend itself” is the US pat excuse for Israel’s mass murder and starvation of innocent civilians.
Generations of historians, psychologists, sociologists, philosophers, and inquiring minds will ask how the descendants and co‑religionists of the Jews murdered by Hitler’s genocidal regime came to become genocidaires. Two factors, deeply intertwined, come to the fore.
First, the Nazi Holocaust lent credence among Jews to the Zionist claim that only a state with overwhelming military power and ready to use it can protect the Jewish people. For these militarists, every Arab country opposed to Israel’s ongoing occupation of Palestine became a dire foe to be crushed by war. This is Netanyahu’s doctrine of violence, which was first unveiled in the Clean Break strategy, and which has produced nonstop Israeli mobilization and war, and a society now gripped by implacable hatred even of innocent women and children in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria. Netanyahu has dragged the US into countless devastating and futile wars out of Netanyahu’s blindness to the reality that only diplomacy, not war, can achieve Israel’s security.
Second, this non stop resort to violence reignited a dormant strain of Biblical Judaism, notably based on the Book of Joshua, which presents God’s covenant with Abraham as justification for genocides committed in conquering the
Jeffrey D. Sachs, who recently received the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation’s Distinguished Peace Leader award, is a world-renowned economics professor, bestselling author, innovative educator, and global leader in sustainable development. Sachs serves as the Director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University, where he holds the rank of University Professor, the university’s highest academic rank. Sachs was Director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University from 2002 to 2016. He is President of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, Co-Chair of the Council of Engineers for the Energy Transition, academician of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences at the Vatican, Commissioner of the UN Broadband Commission for Development, Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah Honorary Distinguished Professor at Sunway University, and SDG Advocate for UN Secretary General António Guterres. From 2001-18, Sachs served as Special Advisor to UN Secretaries-General Kofi Annan (2001-7), Ban Ki-moon (2008-16), and António Guterres (2017-18). www.JeffSachs.org
Promised Land. Ancient zealotry of this kind, and the belief that God would redeem his chosen people through violence, fueled suicidal revolts against the Roman Empire between 66 and 135 AD. Whether the genocides in the Book of Joshua ever occurred (probably not ) is beside the point. For today’s zealots, the license to commit genocide is vivid, immediate, and biblically ordained.
Aware of the danger of self destructive zealotry, the rabbis who shaped the Babylonian Talmud proscribed Jews from attempting to return en masse to the promised land (Ketubot 111a). They taught that Jews should live in their own communities and fulfill God’s commandments where they are, rather than seeking to recapture a land from which they had been exiled following decades of suicidal revolt.
Whatever the fundamental reasons for Israel’s murderous turn, Israel’s survival among nations is at risk today as it has become a pariah state. For the first time in history, Israel’s Western allies have repudiated Israel’s violent ways. France, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada have each pledged to formally recognize the State of Palestine at the upcoming UN General Assembly in September. These countries will finally join the will of the overwhelming global majority in recognizing that the two state solution, enshrined in international law, is the true guarantor of peace.
The majority of the American people, are rightly revulsed by Israel’s brutality and are also turning their support massively to the Palestinian cause. In a new Reuters poll released today, 58% of Americans now believe that the UN should recognize the State of Palestine, against just 32% who oppose that. American politicians will surely note the change, at Israel’s peril, unless the two state solution is rapidly implemented. (Logical arguments can also be given for a peaceful one state, bi national solution, but this alternative has essentially no backing among UN member states and no basis in the international law regarding the Israel Palestine conflict that has developed over more than seven decades.)
This Israeli government will not change course on its own. Only the Trump administration can end the genocide through a comprehensive settlement agreed by the world’s nations at the UN Security Council and UN General Assembly. The solution is to stop the genocide, make peace, and salvage Israel’s standing in the world by creating a Palestinian state alongside Israel on the June 4, 1967 borders.
For decades, the entire Arab and Islamic world has supported the two state solution, and advocated to normalize relations with Israel and guarantee security for the entire region. This solution is in full accordance with international law, and was again espoused clearly by the UN General Assembly in the NY Declaration last month at the conclusion of the United Nations High Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two State Solution (July 29, 2025).
Trump has come to understand that to save Ukraine, he must force it to see reality: that NATO cannot expand to Ukraine as that would directly threaten Russia’s own security. In the same way, Trump must force Israel to see reality: that Israel cannot continue to rule over the Palestinian people, murder them, starve them, and ethnically cleanse them. The two state solution thereby saves both Palestine and Israel.
An immediate UN Security Council vote to grant Palestine permanent membership in the UN next month would put an end to Israel’s zealous delusions of permanent control over Palestine, as well as its reckless territorial ambitions in Lebanon and Syria. The focus of the crisis would then shift to immediate and practical issues: how to disarm non state actors within the framework of the new state and regional peace, how to enable mutual security for Israel and Palestine, how to empower the Palestinians to govern effectively, how to finance the reconstruction, and how to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to a starving population.
Trump can make this happen at the UN in September. The US, and only the US, has vetoed the permanent membership of Palestine in the UN. The other members of the UN Security Council have already signaled their support.
Peace in the Middle East is possible now—and there is no time to lose.
Jeffrey D. Sachs
Rod Lathim &
Present
A Concert Celebrating Seven Decades of the Music of
Rosas
Pianist/Entertainer
Great American Songbook, Porter, Berlin, Gershwin, and Classical Favorites
With Surprise Guests
Gil’s memorable ‘one-man-orchestra style’ of artistry is unmatched
September 13th, 3pm
Marjorie Luke Theatre A benefit for the Center for Successful Aging Tickets: csasb.org/concerts
