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Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Two Nights & Two Programs at The Granada Theatre
ABy Kerry Methner / VOICE THLETIC, EXPRESSIVE, BEAUTIFUL,
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is a cultural treasure mining the depths of contemporary experience to convey meaning and story via dance. UCSB Arts & Lectures will bring the wildly popular ensemble back to Santa Barbara and the Granada Theatre for two performances, each with its own program. On Tuesday, April 15th and Wednesday, April 16th at 7:30pm audiences will experience the troupe’s unique blend of contemporary and classic movement.
Showcasing a dazzling range of cultural influences and choreographic styles, the Ailey dancers merge virtuosic technique, palpable passion, and “exquisite athleticism”
The Washington Post) into an irresistible stream of creative movement. Wednesday’s program will feature founder Alvin Ailey’s beloved masterpiece Revelations Sacred a new work by Matthew Rushing scheduled for Tuesday, revives music from early drafts of Revelations in a celebration of, and as a sequel to, Alvin Ailey’s most famous work.
One of the world’s most popular dance companies, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is celebrating the life and legacy of Artistic Director Emerita Judith Jamison with an 18-city United States tour during its 2024-2025 season. The passionate spirit and extraordinary technique of Ailey’s dancers will be showcased in a diverse repertory of new works, repertory favorites, and Ailey classics, including Alvin Ailey’s masterpiece Revelations
The tour will include four season premieres specially commissioned for Ailey: Sacred Songs, by Interim Artistic Director Matthew Rushing; former Ailey dancer Jamar Roberts’ Al-Andalus
Blues; former Company member Hope Boykin’s Finding Free; and Many Angels, the first world premiere for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater by Lar Lubovitch.
Sacred Songs features music used in the original 1960 premiere of Alvin Ailey’s seminal Revelations but later omitted, resurrecting and reimaging those spirituals, with the collaboration of creative associate and musical director Du’Bois A’Keen, as an offering to our present need for lamentation, faith, and joy.
Earlier this month the Detroit Free Press writer Duante Beddingfield spoke with Ailey Interim Artistic Director Matthew Rushing of his work on Sacred Songs
“Oh, it was a massive process. It was one of the most gratifying experiences I had in 2024,” he shared. “First of all, it’s taking on the task of creating a work celebrating Revelations. It’s huge and it’s intimidating at the same time because you don’t want people to think that you’re trying to create another Revelations. Instead, I just wanted to pay tribute to the ballet. So, when I found out the original version of Revelations was over an hour long and Mr. Ailey condensed it to take it on tour, I found the songs that Mr. Ailey took out, and decided to make a contemporary version of these songs so that the ballet I created would speak to not only past generations, but also our current and hopefully future generations.”
Regarding collaborating with A’Keen, he added, “Normally, I’m in the studio with other dancers and our focus is creating choreography, but in this sense, teaming up with a musical director like Du’Bois was a new experience, but extremely fruitful, inspiring … all the good things.”
To coincide with the tour, A’Keen has released a Sacred Songs Suite album featuring a live recording of the soundtrack along with some bonus songs. “I always tell people I’m a student of Black culture,” said A’Keen, “and I think that American culture is Black culture – that’s my hot take. And so all of those musical influences from further back than we even explored in this work, from the field holler to the Negro spiritual, to the blues, to the gospel, to the R&B – all of these sounds are alive inside of us. They’re blood memory, as Mr. Ailey would say.”
Continued on page 5
Program: Tueday, April 15th
Matthew Rushing: Sacred Songs
Elisa Monte: Treading
Hans van Manen: Solo
Ronald K. Brown: Grace Program: Wednesday, April 16th
Hope Boykin: Finding Free
Lar Lubovitch: Many Angels
Alvin Ailey: Revelations
For tickets visit artsandlectures.ucsb.edu or granadasb.org
Photos by Dario Calmese
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Continued
Al-Andalus Blues is an abstract ensemble piece that journeys back in time to the golden age of Al-Andalus, evoking the northern African Moors who flourished in the south of present-day Spain prior to the Christian Reconquista. Finding Free is an collaboration with pianist Matthew Whitaker’s original score, examining the challenges and restrictions throughout life’s peaks and valleys. Many Angels features Lubovitch’s renowned lush choreography and musicality set to Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 5, meditating on the question by 13th century theologian St. Thomas Aquinas, “How many angels can dance on the head of a pin?”
Additional productions this season include a special 25th anniversary production of Ronald K. Brown’s Grace Set to Duke Ellington’s classic Come Sunday, Peven Everett’s hit Gabriel and the irresistible pulse of Fela Kuti’s Afro-Pop, Grace depicts individuals on a journey to the promised land, expanding from a single angel-like figure in white to the fireball intensity of 12 powerful dancers.
In addition to Grace, another favorite returning to the Ailey stage is Elisa Monte’s Treading, a sculptural, mesmerizing duet featuring fluid, intricate movements that combine with Steve Reich’s evocative music to create an aura of mystery and sensuality.
Since its creation in 1960, Revelations has been seen by more people around the world than any other modern dance work, moving audiences with its powerful storytelling and soul-stirring music and it evokes timeless themes of determination, hope, and transcendence. Springing from Ailey’s childhood memories of growing up in the south and attending services at Mount Olive
Baptist Church in Texas, Revelations pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of the African American community and explores the emotional spectrum of the human condition.
Founded by Alvin Ailey on March 30, 1958, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s repertoire boasts close to 300 works by more than 100 choreographers. It has performed in more than 70 countries on six continents and has been designated a “vital American Cultural Ambassador to the World” by a U.S. Congressional resolution.
Alvin Ailey was an incomparable dancer, a forward-facing visionary and one of the most significant choreographers of the 20th century. His work changed the course of modern dance and his legacy lives on.
Lead Sponsor: Jody & John Arnhold
Supporting Sponsor: Linda Stafford Burrows
Dance Series Sponsors: Margo Cohen-Feinberg, Barbara Stupay and Sheila Wald
Season support: Sara Miller McCune is 2024-2025
Season Sponsor. Natalie Orfalea Foundation & Lou Buglioli are Community Partners of the 2024-2025 season.
Join UCSB Arts & Lectures for a community dance class focused on Alvin Ailey’s signature work, Revelations. Taught by members of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, participants will reminisce on their own life experiences to create dance. All ages and levels welcome.
Photos by Dario Calmese
Police Blotter Letter to the Editor
Santa Barbara Education Foundation’s Commitment to Arts Programs
ON TUESDAY, MARCH 11, the Santa Barbara School Board voted 3-to-2 to approve preliminary cuts to 85 teachers at the Santa Barbara Unified School District. Many of the cuts included arts and music educator positions. Public comments lasted three hours, and the meeting continued into the early hours of the following morning. We will not know the final number of layoff notices to be issued until May 15.
While the Santa Barbara Education Foundation (SBEF) cannot directly influence district hiring decisions, our board and staff remain deeply concerned about the potential consequences for students, especially their impact on arts education.
Our Commitment to Arts Education
At SBEF, we firmly believe that the arts are essential to a wellrounded education. Research consistently demonstrates the positive impact of arts programs on academic performance, student engagement, and overall development—priorities that align with our mission to support students in achieving their full potential. The arts foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, all of which are vital for lifelong learning.
SBEF Programs Supporting Arts Education
Despite these challenges, SBEF will continue to uphold its longstanding commitment to supporting arts programming outside the classroom with the support of our donors.
Our signature initiatives include:
Summer Music Camps, such as Nick Rail Band, String, Drumline, and Sound Waves Camps, provide enriching musical experiences for students during school breaks.
Bravo! Program, offering free after-school music education opportunities to 5th and 6th grade students.
Keep the Beat Instrument Drive, ensuring access to musical instruments for students who might otherwise go without.
The Léni Fund, supports and encourages student participation and exposure to the amazing performing arts programs in Santa Barbara.
These programs are designed to complement classroom learning and ensure students have opportunities to engage with music and the arts.
Maintaining Accessibility for Students
SBEF remains steadfast in ensuring that summer music camps and after-school programs are accessible to as many students as possible. With the continued support of our generous donors, we will work tirelessly to provide equitable access to these transformative experiences.
Monitoring and Adapting
In our role as an independent nonprofit dedicated to ensuring that all SBUSD have access to equitable and inclusive programs that enrich students’ academic, artistic, and personal development, SBEF will continue to monitor these developments. With your help, we will adjust our strategies to maintain options for students and their families. Our goal will be to ensure that no matter the changes within the district, students continue to have access to high-quality arts education programs.
Please accept my personal thanks for your interest and ongoing support of SBEF’s mission and programs during these challenging times. Together, we can navigate these challenges while preserving vital opportunities for our students. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or ideas on how we can further support our community during this time.
Sincerely,
Pedro Paz Executive Director Santa Barbara Education Foundation
Suspect Charged With Cold Case Murder
A PETITION HAS BEEN FILED AGAINST A SUSPECT designated as J.L., who was charged with one felony count of murder, for the death of Edward Ramirez in the County of Santa Barbara on September 3, 2017 in Santa Maria. It is further alleged in the petition, J.L. intentionally used a firearm to commit the murder for the benefit of a criminal street gang.
The murder occurred on September 3, 2017 when J.L. was seventeen years old; therefore,
the case was filed in juvenile court and he will be arraigned in Santa Maria Juvenile Court Department 1 on March 25, 2025.
Detectives Michael Parker and Felix Diaz led the investigation from the Santa Maria Police Department and Senior Deputy District Attorney Madison Whitmore is leading the prosecution team, according to John Savmoch, Santa Barbara County District Attorney.
Charges Filed in Isla Vista Attempted Murder Case
ATTEMPTED MURDER CHARGES have been filed against Jackson Jue, 20, in Santa Barbara County Superior Court in connection with the March 19, 2025 incident concerning a female in Isla Vista during the commission of an armed robbery of a second male victim, according to John T. Savnoch, Santa Barbara County District Attorney.
Mr. Jue is charged with one felony count of attempted murder with premeditation and deliberation and is charged with the special allegation that he discharged a firearm in the
Community News
commission of a crime causing great bodily injury to the victim. Mr. Jue is also charged with one count of attempted robbery with a firearm causing great bodily injury, one count of robbery with a firearm, and multiple illegal possession of firearms charges.
Mr. Jue appeared this week in Department 8 of the Figueroa Division of the Santa Barbara Superior Court. His arraignment was continued to Friday, March 28, 2025 in Department 8. He is currently being held without bail at the Santa Barbara County Jail.
Goleta Valley Library Temporarily Closes for Relocation
THE GOLETA VALLEY LIBRARY WILL CLOSE ITS LOCATION at 500 N. Fairview Avenue beginning April 1st in order to start the process of moving to its temporary site, during April and May with an anticipated opening at a temporary home in early June. During this time, staff will be packing the essential supplies, materials, and more that will enable operations and services to continue offsite while the 500 N. Fairview facility is under construction for 18 to 24 months as part of the Goleta Valley Library Building, Safety, and ADA Improvement Project.
To support the library in its packing process, measures will be put into place to get as many materials home as possible prior to the library’s last day of service at 500 N. Fairview Avenue on Sunday, March 30th.
The Bookvan schedule of stops is available on the library website www.GoletaValleyLibrary.org. Please check the schedule to plan your visit, as the schedule rotates and parking access varies by location. The e-Library will remain available 24/7 and new titles will be added regularly.
Superior Court Rules In Favor of a “Builder’s Remedy”
A FAVORABLE RULING for a“Builder’s Remedy” application for a 56-unit, low-density residential development to proceed on about 14-acres of agriculturally zoned land was announced by the Santa Barbara Superior Court this week. The property is owned by the Shelby Family Partnership, L.P. and is located at 7400 Cathedral Oaks adjacent to the Glenn Annie Golf Course property near Dos Pueblos High School.
The court denied a Goleta City’s motion to dismiss Shelby’s causes of actions. The court also granted judgment in favor of the Shelby Family Partnership on two causes of action and will issue a writ of mandate requiring the City to process both the Shelby’s 2023 preliminary application submitted pursuant to SB 330 and a previous 2011 application submitted for the same site.
Community News
Foodbank of Santa Barbara County prepares for severe cuts to government food programs
AMID THE HIGHEST FOOD INSECURITY RATES IN NEARLY A DECADE, proposed federal changes threaten to deepen hunger across Santa Barbara County, putting thousands of local families, seniors, and children at greater risk. The proposed cuts to USDA and state-funded programs signal a severe threat to the region’s food security.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), which moves nutritious food from farms to food banks, has put approximately 330 loads of federal food commodities on hold in California—resulting in the delay and potentially significant loss of food for FBSBC. The Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA), which enabled FBSBC to source fresh, local produce, has been effectively canceled with the termination of LFPA 25, ending essential support for small local farmers. Additionally, proposed budget changes to CalFood, a state-funded program that provides dollars to food banks to purchase Californiagrown foods, threaten to reduce its vital investment in California food and agriculture businesses. Altogether, these cuts and cancellations represent a food loss currently estimated at approximately $1.5 million for the Foodbank.
“We want all our neighbors in Santa Barbara County to know that the Foodbank has always been there for them in times of need, and that will continue to be the case despite our current challenges with obtaining enough food support from the Federal government,” said Foodbank CEO Erik Talkin. “That is because we operate as the will of this community to ensure that every family, every older adult, has enough nutritious food to keep us strong.”
USDA foods typically make up 30% of the food distributed by the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County, which already serves 1 in 3 of our neighbors. Drastic cuts to governmentfunded food programs and reductions across the social service sector will increase hunger and food insecurity, leaving many families unable to meet basic needs—especially in a County that has the second-highest poverty rate of any California County.
Despite these challenges, the Foodbank remains steadfast in supporting our community, just as during the COVID-19 pandemic five years ago. We are closely monitoring ongoing changes to funding and legislation and working proactively to meet community needs.
We can no longer rely on the Federal government to help us meet community food, it falls on the Foodbank and our partner agencies. While challenging, this transition presents an opportunity for our communities to band together and create more local and sustainable programs that will have a lasting positive impact on Santa Barbara County. The Foodbank will need increased support from our community as we face these unprecedented changes. Monetary donations will support the incredibly cost-efficient food purchasing and sourcing power of the Foodbank. Our partnerships with local and state networks mean that our buying power can have five times the impact. We urge our neighbors to donate any amount and visit us at foodbanksbc.org to learn how they can help.
The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County transforms hunger into health through good nutrition and food literacy. It provides nourishment and education through a network of more than 200 partner agencies, nutrition education programs, and food distribution sites. In Santa Barbara County, one in three people receives support from the Foodbank, and 38% of the individuals we serve are children.
Scholarship Foundation Honors Gina Carbajal
RECOGNIZED FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE, Gina Carbajal, chief programs officer at the Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara, was one of 11 women from Santa Barbara and Ventura counties honored by state Sen. Monique Limón in separate Women of the Year ceremonies on March 20 and 21. The honorees were recognized for their efforts in support of local students, women, children, small businesses, farmers, healthcare providers, and communities in need. The Santa Barbara ceremony took place March 20 at the Braille Institute.
“As the vice chair of the bipartisan California Legislative Women’s Caucus, it is my honor to recognize 11 women in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties as Women of the Year,” said Sen. Limón in a statement. “Each woman has left her mark on their industry and plays an important role in the success of her organization. As a former Woman of the Year, I know just how much this award means to our honorees and I want to congratulate them on this well-earned achievement.”
Carbajal, whose lengthy career in the nonprofit sector has included leadership roles at organizations serving local children, families, and disabled individuals, began serving as chief programs officer at Scholarship Foundation in December 2024. Prior to joining the Scholarship Foundation, she served as development director for Special Olympics in Santa Barbara County, having previously been the organization’s regional director. Earlier, Mrs. Carbajal served as executive director of United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County, director of health promotion at Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics, and as regional program
manager for the Community Action Commission’s Head Start services in Southern Santa Barbara County. She has served on the Santa Barbara County Commission for Women and as a Board member for Sarah House, among other organizations, and currently volunteers for the Congressional Club’s First Lady’s Luncheon.
In addition to the above recognition, the Santa Barbara County Commission for Women honored Carbajal with a 2025 Women’s History Month Service Award during a County Board of Supervisors meeting on March 18. Five women were honored for outstanding service to the community, one from each county district. Carbajal was the third district awardee.
“Gina has made a career of lending a helping hand to people in need throughout our community and now is contributing to the impactful work at the Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara,” said Foundation President and CEO Melinda Cabrera. “We are tremendously proud to have her on our team and congratulate her on these richly deserved honors.”
The Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara is the nation’s largest community-based provider of college scholarships, having cumulatively awarded in excess of $150 million to some 62,000 county students since its founding in 1962. sbscholarship.org
Keith Yeager’s Winning Bid Supports the SBART Prelude to March Madness
SANTA BARBARA RESIDENT KEITH YEAGER won the live auction bidding at this year’s Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table Prelude to March Madness on Monday, March 17 at the Cabrillo Pavilion. The Prelude to March Madness featured local coaches breaking down the college bracket with expertise, high hopes, and good humor. Retired coach Tim Floyd inspired the crowd with his lessons on listening well and growing through adversity. Floyd coached the NBA Chicago Bulls and New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans), as well as several NCAA teams, including the University of Southern California.
The special evening featured live and silent auctions, including the Los Angeles Lakers tickets, which Yeager won. “I’m just happy to support our local student-scholar athletes,” said Yeager. sbroundtable.org
To have your events included in VOICE Magazine's calendar or arts listings, please email information to Calendar@VoiceSB.com by noon the Monday before publication.
Gina Carbajal
Coach Tim Floyd congratulates winning bidder Keith Yeager
Photo courtesy of SBART
Your Soundtrack to Summer 2025
TUNING IN FOR THEIR 78TH SEASON,
the Music Academy of the West is offering a Soundtrack to Summer, an unparalleled blend of world-class performances and musical discovery for the 2025 Summer Music Festival & School, which begins June 15th.
“We are excited to welcome the community both near and far to the Music Academy’s 2025 Summer Festival,” said Music Academy President & CEO Shauna Quill in their season announcement. “With a diverse lineup of performances ranging from world premieres to timeless classics, this season offers something for everyone. Whether you’re experiencing a live performance for the first time or returning to a beloved tradition, we invite you to join us and create your personal summer soundtrack.”
The Festival showcases international artists performing alongside 150 of the Academy’s gifted young musicians and 60 esteemed teaching artists in 120 one-of-a-kind performances, including orchestral and chamber performances, a full-scale opera, plus masterclasses, competitions, and groundbreaking new works — a must for classical music lovers.
The Summer Music Festival & School runs from June 15th through August 9th at the Music Academy’s idyllic campus in Montecito — and throughout the stunning setting of the American Riviera in Santa Barbara. The festival will feature special appearances by Randall Goosby, Sasha Cooke, Jeremy Denk, Christine Goerke, Andy Akiho, Stewart Copeland, and the Takács Quartet.
The Summer Music Festival kicks off with dynamic, family-friendly programming, including the 50thanniversary of JAWS at Santa Barbara’s Granada Theatre with the Academy Festival Orchestra and conductor Ben Palmer; a thrilling PercussionFest featuring works by rock legend Stewart Copeland, Mosher Guest Artist Andy Akiho, and teaching artists Joseph Pereira and Michael Werner; and, a bilingual production of Peter and the Wolf (Pedro y el Lobo) with conductor César Cañón and narration by Really Inventive Stuff. The Academy proudly presents the world premiere of adapted excerpts from Huang Ruo’s new opera The Monkey King, and makes history with its first-ever, free community brass concert at the newly restored Santa Barbara Plaza del Mar Bandshell.
At the heart of the Academy, our renowned teaching artists take center stage in landmark performances, including the Takács Quartet’s 50th-anniversary celebration, two Teaching Artist Showcases at the Lobero Theatre, and x2 Series concerts curated by Glenn Dicterow, Cynthia Phelps, and Dennis Michael. Acclaimed pianist, author, and teaching artist Jeremy Denk will present Beethoven+, a thought-provoking, threepart lecture-performance series highlighting the famed composer’s Piano Sonatas. Director Mo Zhou will direct the Lehrer Vocal Institute’s starry reimagining of Mozart’s Don Giovanni set in Hollywood’s Golden Age, conducted by Christian Reif. Dazzling concerts by Mosher Guest Artists Randall Goosby, Christine Goerke, and Andy Akiho, and groundbreaking world premieres by inti figgis-vizueta, Huang Ruo, and Kamala Sankaram will add depth to the summer experience.
This season’s Academy Festival Orchestra
concerts are led by Music Director of the San Bernardino Symphony and famed film score conductor Anthony Parnther, Oregon Symphony Music Director David Danzmayr, Principal Conductor of Opera Theatre of Saint Louis Daniela Candillari, Music Director of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra & Artistic Director of the New World Symphony Stéphane Denève, and Distinguished Resident Director of Orchestras and Professor of Conducting at the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University Miguel Harth-Bedoya. The orchestral programs will celebrate the 150th anniversary of Maurice Ravel, as well as monumental works by Mahler, Mussorgsky, Strauss, and Poulenc.
The Academy’s Music Note Gala, a celebration in support of classical music education, will take place Friday, July 11th, at 5pm, on the Montecito Club’s Upper Lawn. The Gala features special performances by Grammy Award-winning mandolinist Chris Thile in collaboration with the Academy Gala Orchestra and members of Sing!, conducted by Daniela Candillari.
Sponsorships and tables for the Gala go on sale March 19th; individual tickets on sale May 1st at musicacademy.org/gala or by calling the Ticket Office at 805-969-8787.
The Summer Festival runs from June 15th to August 9th. Find out more at musicacademy.org
Photos courtesy of Music Academy of the West
Anthony Parnther, Jeremy Denk, Randall Goosby, Takács Quartet, Andy Akiho, inti figgis-vizueta, Chris Thile, and Christine Goerke
Photo by Zach Mendez
Carrie Towbes and George Burtness Named 82nd Persons of the Year
HONORS AND RECOGNITION FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE will go to Dr. Carrie Towbes and George Burtness when they receive one of the highest awards in the Santa Barbara area — the 82nd Persons of the Year for the Santa Barbara area. The awards ceremony will take place at a luncheon on Wednesday, April 23rd from 11:30am to 1:30pm at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort Rotunda.
“The Santa Barbara Foundation is honored to serve as organizing sponsor for Person of the Year, and thrilled to join the community in recognizing Carrie and George for their extensive and meaningful volunteer contributions to improve life in our area,” noted Jackie Carrera, President and CEO of the Santa Barbara Foundation.” Both awardees this year truly embody what it means to show up for the community, and have spent years dedicating their time and expertise to advance well-being in Santa Barbara and to enrich life and increase opportunities for all of us.”
Dr. Carrie Towbes
Board. Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Towbes has been a dedicated community volunteer and leader, serving on numerous nonprofit boards focused on children and families including
returned in 2008 after nearly three decades in the mid-Atlantic. In addition to her PhD in Clinical Psychology, she holds an MEd in Special Education, and a BS in Elementary Education. Before earning her doctorate, she worked as a special education teacher, supporting elementary students with learning and behavioral challenges.
George Burtness
Carrie Towbes, PhD, is a Licensed Psychologist specializing in child clinical psychology. She has served in schools, hospitals, community mental health centers, and nonprofit agencies as a psychologist. She has also contributed her expertise as a clinical supervisor at CALM and as a past member of the First 5 Santa Barbara County Advisory
Planned Parenthood California Central Coast, Storyteller Children’s Center, and Crane County Day School.
In 2008, Dr. Towbes became more engaged with the Towbes Foundation, established by her parents, Michael and Gail Towbes. Since 1980, the Towbes Foundation has granted $25 million to over 400 organizations across Santa Barbara County. Following her father’s passing in 2017, Carrie took on leadership at the Foundation with a focus on professionalizing operations, cultivating a diverse board, and strategically funding initiatives in youth mental health, education, and well-being.
Raised in Santa Barbara, Dr. Towbes
A lifelong conservationist and volunteer, George Burtness spent 40 years in Palo Alto where he earned a bachelor’s in psychology and an MBA at Stanford University, before returning to his hometown of Santa Barbara in 1990. After returning to Santa Barbara, he spent 45 years with The Nature Conservancy studying endangered species on Santa Cruz Island, and participated in Channel Islands Restoration’s efforts across the Santa Barbara Channel Islands and mainland. In addition to his environmental work, Mr. Burtness has dedicated thousands of hours to Santa Barbara institutions.
He has served Cottage Hospital as a volunteer for 17 years including leading the Cottage Hospital Volunteer Board, which supports the work of 900 volunteers across three hospitals. He was also a member of the Cottage Hospital Institutional Review Board, participating in the review of research projects at the hospital.
He has volunteered with Lotusland for 30 years, recorded books for the Braille Institute’s
Talking Books program, and volunteered with Direct Relief International. His leadership extends across numerous nonprofit boards, including as Chair of the Board for Sansum Diabetes Research Institute, a position previously held by his father, Hildahl Burtness. Mr. Burtness has also served as President of the Lobero Theatre Foundation.
His other board service includes the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, Music Academy of the West, Channel Islands Restoration, Lotusland Lotus Society, and Santa Cruz Island Foundation Advisory Board.
Known as the Man and Woman of the Year award until 2020, this event has been hosted for over 80 years. The inaugural honorees of the Man and Woman of the Year award were Harold Chase in 1942 and Pearl Chase in 1956. Jim Morouse and Peter Schuyler were last year’s awardees.
The 82nd Person of the Year celebration is supported by Legacy Sponsor: Montecito Bank & Trust; Organizing Sponsor: the Santa Barbara Foundation; Premier Media Sponsor: Noozhawk; Gold Sponsors: Cox, The Kellogg Organization, and Cottage Health; Silver Sponsors: Bartlett, Pringle & Wolf, Cindy Lyons, Steve Lyons and Patty MacFarlane; and Bronze Sponsors: Katina Zaninovich and Ventura Rentals.
Individuals and organizations interested in sponsoring Person of the Year may reach out to Kevin Kuga, Business Development Manager for the Santa Barbara Foundation at kkuga@ sbfoundation.org. Tickets and tables are on sale now and may be purchased online at SBFoundation.org/PYAwards.
The Santa Barbara Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life throughout Santa Barbara County for all who live, work, play and visit here. To learn more, visit sbfoundation.org
Trailblazing Chineke! Orchestra to Make Long-Awaited Local Debut
By Tim Dougherty, Special to VOICE
MORE THAN FIVE YEARS IN THE MAKING, the acclaimed Chineke! Orchestra will at last present its Santa Barbara debut at the Granada Theatre on Thursday, April 3rd at 7:30pm. The performance can’t come soon enough for organizers at Community Arts Music Association (CAMA) of Santa Barbara and local connoisseurs of contemporary classical music.
“We could not be more excited for the community,” said CAMA President Mark Trueblood. “The Chineke! Orchestra is redefining modern notions of classical music. Just as importantly, it has earned a reputation for dynamic, emotionally resonant performances. This promises to be a highlight of CAMA’s 2024-25 season!”
The April 3rd performance will take place nearly five years to the day after the Chineke! Orchestra was originally scheduled to make its Santa Barbara debut (on April 14, 2020), also under the aegis
of CAMA. That concert was canceled on account of the COVID pandemic.
Dedicated to championing accomplished classical musicians and composers from underrepresented communities, the pioneering, Londonbased Chineke! Orchestra has blazed a singular artistic trail since its founding a decade ago, garnering international acclaim and gracing the stages of prestigious venues and festivals, including the renowned BBC Proms, the Lucerne Festival, and the Edinburgh Festival. Its wide-ranging repertoire encompasses both standard orchestral fare and often-overlooked works by underrepresented composers.
True to that description, the April 3rd program will include compelling works by four Black composers, as well as Franz Joseph Haydn’s dazzling Trumpet Concerto in E-flat, featuring charismatic Nigerian-Scottish trumpeter Aaron Azunda Akugbo. The performance will open with Seven O’Clock Shout, a vibrant work by contemporary composer and flutist Valerie Coleman intended as an homage
to the indefatigable spirit of frontline workers during the COVID pandemic. The concert’s second half will begin with Brian Nabors’ spirited Pulse for Orchestra, a 2019 work that all but bursts with rhythmic energy and vitality. Compositions by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor and daughter Avril Coleridge-Taylor will round out the program.
At the podium will be Zimbabweanborn conductor Vimbayi Kaziboni, who has met with praise for his interpretive imagination and engaging stage presence with orchestras across the globe.
CAMA has announced the availability of $10 tickets for the April 3rd performance. Concertgoers ages 7–17 accompanying a ticketed adult will be admitted free of charge.
“Given the cultural significance of this concert and this ensemble, we are determined to maximize audience accessibility,” said Mr. Trueblood. For tickets, visit www.camasb.org or call 805-966-4324
Courtesy Photos
Photo by Olivia Da Costa
Trumpeter Aaron Azunda Akugbo
Dr. Carrie Towbes George Burtness
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232 CORONADO DRIVE OFFERED AT $1,267,000
Carey Kendall carey@clkre.com | DRE 00753349
3930 INDIAN WAY OFFERED AT $8,965,000
3310 ROBLAR AVENUE OFFERED AT $5,750,000
5300 BASELINE AVENUE OFFERED AT $3,695,000
340 ROSARIO DR #A & B OFFERED AT $1,600,000
Elizabeth Wagner elizabeth@villagesite.com | DRE 01440591
2839 GLENDESSARY LANE OFFERED AT $3,100,000
1021 PALERMO DRIVE OFFERED AT $1,800,000
5102 WALNUT PARK DRIVE OFFERED AT $1,599,000
Melora Hardin March 12-23
Jorja Fox March 12-16
Thomas Sadoski
Matt Walsh
Gildart Jackson March 18-23
Gina Torres
James Urbaniak
Joshua Malina
Rob Huebel March 25-30
John Ross Bowie March 25-30
Jane Lynch March 25-30
Pete Gardner March 12-16
Sharon Lawrence March 12-30
Loni Love March 25-30
50th Anniversary Celebration Honors Nonprofits
By Taylor Fraker / Montectio Bank & Trust / Special to VOICE
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION FOR MONTECITO BANK AND TRUST started on Monday and continued on Wednesday with their annual Anniversary Grants reception at their historic branch on State Street in downtown Santa Barbara.
“We are so grateful to our communities for their part in helping Montecito Bank & Trust reach our 50th anniversary! Together, we have accomplished a lot over these 50 years, and I believe our Founder, Michael Towbes, would be proud of the partnerships we’ve built and the impact we’ve generated across the Central Coast. Anniversary Grants is always a wonderful and inspiring way to recognize our associates’ dedication to the communities they serve and to applaud and support the nonprofits who help to make our communities better through their tireless work, every day. It was an honor to share this evening with Jerry Parent, a dear friend of Michael Towbes and a 46-year MB&T Board Director; his compassion for and dedication to our communities is bestin-class. On behalf of our associates and our Board of Directors, we are excited to be celebrating 50 years of loving and living local and we look forward to what more we can accomplish with our partners in the years to come!” shared Janet Garufis, Chairman & CEO.
The Bank’s late founder, Michael Towbes, first started the Anniversary Grants program in 1993 to honor Montecito Bank & Trust’s anniversary by giving back to the community. He wanted bank employees to have a voice in the direction of the Bank’s corporate giving and to celebrate the exceptional volunteer service they give back to Central Coast communities.
This year’s eleven local nonprofit recipients were all hand-selected by Bank employees after they campaigned, rallied, and voted for the organizations that make an impact in their lives and communities. In a surprise twist this year, each Anniversary Grant award was increased to $5,000 to commemorate the Bank’s 50th anniversary. Recipients also received a one-minute promotional video showcasing each organization’s extraordinary work. The Bank also provides additional promotion of each organization in branches and on social media throughout the year.
Five years ago, the Bank introduced the Jerry Parent Anniversary Grants Legacy Award to honor the decades-long selfless community contributions of long-time Board Director, Jerry Parent. The award is presented to an organization that makes a significant and sustainable impact on a local community. The organization is nominated by a Bank associate and selected by a committee with the input of Mr. Parent.
The 6th recipient of the Legacy Award is Many Mansions for providing well-managed, serviceenriched, affordable housing to low-income residents of Southern California. Many Mansions also received a $5,000 grant and a promotional video. They will be featured on a commemorative plaque in the Downtown Branch.
2025 Anniversary Grants recipients: C.A.R.E.4Paws; CALM; Explore Ecology; Friendship Adult Day Care Center; Olive Crest’s Hope Refuge; Mission Scholars; Peabody Charter School; Rooted Santa Barbara County; San Marcos High School Vocal Music Program; Santa Barbara Community Archives Project.
To watch a video of each Anniversary Grant promotional video, visit montecito.bank/ Anniversary-Grants.
Montecito Bank & Trust is the oldest and largest locally owned community bank in the Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. Founded in 1975, the bank celebrated its 50th anniversary on March 17, 2025, and operates 13 branch offices.
Alana Walczak, CALM
Janet Garufis and Jerry Parent, MB&T
Anne Towbes and Janet Garufis, MB&T
Olive Crest’s Hope Refuge: Janet Garufis, MB&T; Bruce Stevens, MB&T; Chuck Cook, Sally Cook, Linda Johansen, MB&T; Phyllis Smith, and Daniel Girdler
Peabody Charter School: Janet Garufis, MB&T; Sara Stokley, MB&T; Sophie, Danell Hurtado, Marco Silva, Tiffany Gonzalez, Bridget Clancy, and Jeff Pittman, MB&T
Ricardo Zamarron, Scott Estby, and Simon Priest, MB&T
Beth Skidmore, Rooted SB County; Christopher Harris, CARE4Paws; and Lori Tremer Huey, Rooted SB County
Lindsay Johnson, Explore Ecology
SB Community Archives Project: David Cater, MB&T; Laura Treat Liebhaber, Jessica Law, and Heather Silva
CARE4Paws: Bruce Stevens, MB&T; Tom Fisher, MB&T; Isabelle Gullö, and Janet Garufis, MB&T
Legacy Award Winner, Many Mansions: Janet Garufis, MB&T; Judith Botsai, Clair Moniz, Rick Schroeder, Brian Donovan, MB&T; and Carlisle Packard
Friendship Adult Day Care Center: Janet Garufis, MB&T; Jean Hall, Jacqueline Duran, Kathryn Westland, Nathan Bero, MB&T; David Porter, MB&T; Joe Wheatley, and Zandra Cholmondeley
Rooted Santa Barbara County: Janet Garufis, MB&T; Lori Tremer Huey, Mary Galindo, Beth Skidmore, Brooks Kohne, MB&T; and David Porter, MB&T
San Marcos High School Vocal Music Program: Bruce Stevens, MB&T; Viara Vachovska, MB&T; Hana Stichler, Carolyn Snyder, MB&T; and Janet Garufis, MB&T
Paul Mori, Conductor
Santa Barbara’s Cultural Night Downtown
1
ST THURSDAY is an evening of art and culture in downtown Santa Barbara that takes place on the first Thursday of each month. Participating art venues offer free access to art in a fun and social environment from 5-8pm. 1st Thursday venues also provide additional attractions, such as live music, artist receptions, lectures, wine tastings, and hands-on activities. State St also comes alive on 1st Thursday with performances and interactive activities.
Galleries, Museums, & Art Venues
1. Voice Gallery • La Cumbre Plaza, 110 S. Hope Ave, Unit H-124 • Swing into VOICE Gallery—where the wild things are! Wild Animals, Wild People, Wild Places... Enjoy artwork from local artists, a sing-along with Harold Kono, and tasty bites and sips.
2. Art & Soul • 1323 State St • Art & Soul presents The Tea Papers, a captivating new collection by multidisciplinary artist Mick Victor. Blending oils, acrylics, charcoal, and the delicate textures of steeped tea bags, Victor’s layered compositions reveal an evocative interplay of fragility and permanence, inviting viewers into his unique visual storytelling.
3. Santa Barbara Fine Art • 1321 State St • Book signing of local psychologist/ author Michael Seabaugh's published novel, Gwendolyn & Eddie—a humorous, poignant tale of a 1950s housewife taming the wildness of an alcoholic monkey and husband while holding on to her traditional values in a fastchanging culture. Celebrate Richard Schloss's 72nd birthday with cake and Silver wines. Join us for a fun-filled evening!
4. Tamsen Gallery • 1309 State St • Tamsen Gallery celebrates artist Loan Chabanol. With Reminiscence, Loan returns to where it all began—a journey through nostalgia, reflection, and personal memories. It all started with an animal, a horse—a spirit she connected with as a child, embodying freedom, intuition, and an unspoken bond that shaped her artistic expression.
April 3
rd
5 to 8pm
5. Ensemble Theatre Company • 33 W. Victoria St, 805-965-5400 • Ensemble Theatre Company invites you to 1st Thursday at Rachmaninoff And The Tsar! Featuring Sergei Rachmaninoff’s most beloved compositions, including Prelude in C# minor, The 2nd Piano Concerto, The Paganini Variations, and more. 1st Thursday participants can stop by our ticket office for buy one, get one free tickets to our April 3rd, 7:30pm performance.
6. domecíl • 1223 State St • Stop by the shop to experience the work of conceptual artist Davia King, whose colorful and soulful style merges elements of abstraction and action painting. Using bold colors and layering paint, she creates a provocative background while focusing on human connection.
7. Studio By Appointment
Only • 1221 State St #24 • Blake Bronstad has never had a formal art show. A commercial photographer by trade, Blake captures brands, products, and stories with a carefully crafted yet candid approach. This event will highlight some of his most iconic work, pulled from his personal archives. Enjoy light bites, good music, and great company.
8. KAAREM • 1221 State St #14 • Join KAAREM for the publication launch of I Want You to Know, a new picture book by Mona Damluji, on Thursday, April 3rd, from 5–8pm. A book reading and conversation with the author will explore how families can discuss war, displacement, migration, and belonging with young people. Enjoy tahini and black sesame ice cream from Creaminal.
9. Benchmark Eatery • 1201 State St • Remembering Ellwood—An art piece inspired by childhood visits to the Monarch Butterflies at Ellwood Preserve in Goleta. The contrast of the shaded hanging kaleidoscopes against the vibrant orange swaths of flying flutter is a cherished memory, hoping for the Monarch population’s return.
10. 10 West Gallery • 10 W. Anapamu St. • An artist interprets landscapes, figures, or even states of mind, baring their souls to the world through color and shape. Come in and feed your soul on the fruits of their efforts!
8. At Karrem be enchanted by the book launch of I Want To Know You by Mona Damluji
2. Art & Soul will be hosting an opening for Mick Victor's The Tea Papers
10. Share the colors and shapes that have piqued the imaginations of artists at 10 West Gallery including this by Sophia Beccue
1. VOICE Gallery welcomes art of the Wild - people, places, animals, & moreincluing this piece by Chris Provenzano.
15. Stop by Waterhouse Gallery for classic contemporary landscapes, figurative, cityscapes, and more!
11. Colette Cosentino • 11 W. Anapamu St. • Join us on April 3rd, 5–8 pm, at Colette Cosentino Atelier + Gallery for an enchanting evening featuring select abstract works by Colette Cosentino. Enjoy non-alcoholic beverages while exploring captivating art available for purchase.
12. Sullivan Goss • 11 E. Anapamu St. • Sullivan Goss celebrates the opening reception for In Good Company, showcasing three of our most important historic estates: Colin Campbell Cooper, Leon Dabo, & Lockwood de Forest. Also on view: Hank Pitcher: The Miramar Affair and The Spring Salon.
13. Santa Barbara Museum of Art • 1130
State St • Join SBMA for an unforgettable 1st Thursday! Bring the family for hands-on creativity at Family 1st Thursday (5–7pm), enjoy a captivating PopUp Opera performance (5–5:45pm), and explore the galleries until 8pm— all free!
14. Gallery 113 • 1114
State St • Exhibit by members of the Santa Barbara Art Association. Artist of the Month: Linda Nelson. Also Julianne Martin, Virginia Kamhi, Cindy Star, and Chris Morgenstern and original art from various members.
15. Waterhouse Gallery • 1114 State St #9 • The gallery features figurative works, interiors, and cityscapes by some of today’s finest nationally known local and Oak Group artists. Enjoy works by Ray Hunter, Derek Harrison, Wyllis Heaton, Camille Dellar, Ann Sanders, Thomas Van Stein, Nancy Davidson, Rick Garcia, Ellie Freudenstein, and Ralph Waterhouse.
16. Slice of Light • 9 W. Figueroa St. • Our latest exhibit features the work of Ben Coffman, a photographer from Portland, Oregon. Ben's stunning photography highlights the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy fine wine as you explore our latest exhibit, Spring 2025.
17. The Yes Store • 1015 State St • Come celebrate local arts while enjoying music, drinks, & treats! View the work of our incredibly talented artists. Looking for locally handmade gifts or something special for yourself? Look no further than The Yes Store—Local Arts Gallery.
18. Finch & Fork | The Kimpton Canary Hotel • 31 W. Carrillo St. • The Canary Hotel lobby transforms into a haven for art and music lovers from 5–8pm. Shop for jewelry, clothing, and art from local vendors. Enjoy $2 oysters, cocktails, and bites while DJ Dansauce provides the beats.
19. SBIFF’s Santa Barbara Filmmaker Series • SBIFF's Film Center, 916 State St • On Thursday, April 3rd, we are featuring The Kelp We Breathe by Jack Phillips, Natalie Aymond, Tatum Davis, and Taylor Ortiz. This film dives into why kelp matters, unveiling its connection to culture, passion, and community.
Showtimes: 5pm, 6pm, 7pm.
Runtime: 15 mins.
20. Paint at Paseo • Peppermint Parlor, 651 Paseo Nuevo • Celebrate Easter and spring at Paint at Paseo with Champagne Smoke (@vivrantbloom), a Santa Barbara-based artist merging African American and Asian influences in her storytelling and immersive art. She will lead a 90-minute acrylic painting session for all ages and skill levels. All materials provided. Free event!
21. Santa Barbara Historical Museum • 136 East De La Guerra St.
• Join us after-hours with wine and live music from 5:30–7pm by The Tony Ybarra Trio. Explore the Museum’s latest exhibitions: J. Walter Collinge: Pictorial Santa Barbara and Beyond and The Chair.
Entertainment:
Paint a Kite • Corner of State and Anapamu St. • The Santa Barbara Kite Festival invites you to color and build your own kite! Color your kite (free of charge, while supplies last) and get ready for the Annual Santa Barbara Kite Festival, coming to the Great Meadow lawn on the west campus of Santa Barbara City College (Sunday, April 13th, 11am to 4pm). Festival staff will be on hand to help build kites and answer questions about kite flying and the festival.
Poets on State • 1100 Block of State St • Interactive poetry fun with vintage typewriters and local poets, including SB Poet Laureate Melinda Palacio, George Yatchisin, and Simon Kiefer. Come celebrate National Poetry Month.
Ladyfinger • 800 Block of State St • Ladyfinger is a band of six local musicians in their 20s that play the music of the Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia Band. The Santa Barbara group share a genuine passion to respect the legacy and heritage of this music, often playing pure acoustic sets mixed with hybrid electric energy that also infuses their personal musical backgrounds and expertise.
12. Sullivan Goss will host the opening for In Good Company - with beautiful work from three historic estates.
13. Pop up Opera returns to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art from 5 to 5:45pm.
16. The beauty of the Pacific Northwest stars in the photographs by Ben Coffman at Slice of Light.
3. Michael Seabaugh will be signing his novel Gwendolyn & Eddie at SB Fine Art.
4. Loan Chabanol's work Reminiscence will open at Tamsen Gallery.
14. Enjoy the work of members of the SB Art Association at Gallery 113.
6. Davia King's colorful work at domecíl focuses on human connection.
9. A tribute to Ellwood's Monarchs will be on display at Benchmark Eatery.
19. Take in The Kelp We Breathe at SBIFF's SB Filmmaker Series
5. Get a 2 for 1 ticket offer as ETC launches Rachmaninoff and the Tsar
21. The music of the Tony Ybarra Trio will enchant at the SB Historical Museum.
18. Vendors will offer their ware at the Canary Hotel while Finch & Fork serves up cocktails and more!
7. Explore the work of Blake Bronstad at Studio by Appointment Only.
Sultry Antics: The Seven Deadly Sins
By Robert F. Adams, Special to VOICE
JOYFUL AND DARK SURPRISES highlighted the Santa Barbara Symphony’s latest unusual and exceptional collaborative effort. After a warm welcome from Symphony CEO Kathryn Martin, the program’s first half was filled with eclectic music choices, offering a feat of precision for the large orchestra gathered on the Granada’s proscenium on Saturday, March 22nd. The selections of rapid fire movements from the composers included Jacques Ibert’s six movement Divertissement, the African American William Grant Still’s Seven Little Pieces from The Black Belt, and Jesse Montgomery’s Strum from 2006. All of these offered spirited, almost toy-factory surprises, with waltz and jazz influences.
The first act selections underlined the virtuosity of the musicians under the leadership of conductor Nir Kabaretti. The variety delighted The Granada’s full house. Rhythm was key, providing a wellspring of sonic variety that seemed to merge and disappear. Strum was noteworthy for the nicely played pizzicato that formed the dramatic underpinnings.
The main feature of the concert was Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill’s The Seven Deadly Sins, briefly introduced by conductor Kabaretti. The work was conceived in 1933 as Weill escaped to Paris from the rising Nazism in Germany. Brecht eventually joined in there as they developed the work, hatched as a ‘sung’ ballet and starring Weill’s estranged wife, actress Lotte Lenya. It shows a character name Anna who dreams of amassing funds to build a small house in Louisiana on the banks of the Mississippi River. The work is an avant garde critique of greedy capitalists and capitalism and is structured with a prologue and epilogue. Sandwiched in between are the sins taking place is USA cities: Sloth, where Weill incorporates measures of chorale parody and the barbershop quartet style of song: Pride, set in Memphis, involving a topless cabaret; Anger, which takes a jab at Hollywood and skewers a fox trot and conversations between the string section and woodwinds; Gluttony, set in Philadelphia, which embraces an a Capella and a barbershop quartet; Lust, set in Boston, the most compelling section, which involves love for a poor man named Fernando and a wealthy male client; Greed, set in Tennessee which quotes an operatic aria; and Envy, set in San Francisco, uses an ironic triumphal march in some of the musical phrasing. This was the final collaboration between Weill and Brecht.
In the central role as Anna, the singer, Pink Martini vocalist, and actress Storm Large came to the lip of the stage, breaking the fourth wall in a sultry musical address portraying two different characters (Anna I and II). Ms. Large embodied both sides of Anna with shades of desire, virtue, and vice, and keenly aware of her predicaments. Her gaze was boldly directed to the audience (a feature of Brechtian Theatre). Outfitted in a raincoat that looked like an British spy, soon, within the context of “sin” section, off came the raincoat to reveal an entirely sultry black bodice and some revealing moments, both emotional and otherwise. Large’s vocals were believably sexy and dark, and surprisingly effective. She was like an older and wiser Sally Bowles (from the musical Cabaret) and what she revealed was laced with a vulnerable sexuality that admitted her struggles to earn straight cold cash for her sister and home base, mysteriously located in Louisiana. This was a woman who traveled the hard road and lived to tell the tale. In tune with the orchestra, her song and monologues were heightened by the Kurt Weill score, as treacherous and familiar as the dark beatings heard in Brecht/Weill’s earlier sensation, The Threepenny Opera. The dark soulful brazen lyrics and rhythms were familiar enough to conjure the suspicion that Mack the Knife himself was dangerously lurking in the stage’s shadows. This was a full-blown Brechtian theatre piece. The only element missing were the dancers that were part of the original productions of The Seven Deadly Sins. The section embraced moral conflicts and being the object of lust, with the central character’s journey of moral ambiguity.
Large’s collaborators were the Hudson Shad Quartet, made up of four older gents that clearly were imbued with selfishness and lust. The Quartet appearance was at first unsettling, but through the sin movements they were the chorus of sinister ungentle gents that seemed lifted out of a British Alec Guinness comedy film from the postwar period (think The Ladykillers). Dressed in black, the four men were strident and theatrical, directing their advising lyrics to Anna as played by Large. For an encore to this Brechtian theatrical, Large offered a song from the John Kander musical Cabaret, Maybe This Time, with utter conviction and vocal perfection to the delight of the attendees. Performers received much applause was offered for the adventurous program.
The Principal Concert Sponsor credits go to the Anne Jackson Family Foundation, The Zegar Family Foundation, Todd and Alyson Aldrich, Dan & Meg Burnham, Sarah & Roger Chrisman, Samuel M and Alene S. Hedgeth, Montecito Bank & Trust. Artist Sponsors were Susann Aberle and Rachel Kganoff. The Wine sponsor was La Lieff Winery. TheSymphony.org
Storm Large and the Hudson Shad Quartet
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Center For Successful Aging Benefit Concert to Feature Amanda McBroom
AWARD WINNING SINGER AND SONGWRITER, Amanda McBroom, who composed the song The Rose, which was brought to fame by Bette Midler, will headline a benefit concert for the Center for Successful Aging at the historic Marjorie Luke Theatre, on Sunday March 30th.
McBroom, a Golden Globe winner, will perform an intimate concert of original and well-loved standards, called Let’s Fall In Love. Her songs have been recorded by such luminaries as Barbara Cook, Manhatten Transfer, Anne Murray, Judy Collins, Barry Manilow, Reba McIntyre, and her song The Rose recorded by Bette Midler, reached number one on the charts. She has written two musicals, Heartbeats and A Woman of Will and is lyricist for the musical Dangerous Beauty, which premiered at The Pasadena Playhouse. Most recently with her writing partner Michele Brourman, she wrote songs for the awardwinning documentary film Show Her The Money and the HBO film The Great Lillian Hall, starring Jessica Lange and Kathy Bates.
Pianist Brourman and bassist Larry Tuttle will perform with Amanda on March 30th, with the concert being produced by Rod Lathim.
The New York Times has called McBroom “One of the greatest cabaret performers of her generation who writes like an angel and has a voice to match.” McBroom will sing some of her favorite, heartfelt original songs and popular standards by such greats as Cole Porter and the Gershwins.
This concert will benefit the Center for Successful Aging, a nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing the well-being of seniors in our community through Peer to Peer Counseling, support groups, and daily Careline calls to seniors to check on their safety and well-being. The Luke Theatre offers an Assistive Listening Loop system for audience members and is wheelchair accessible. The concert is supported by Rod Lathim, Anne Towbes, Lashon Kelley, and the Dreier Family Rent Subsidy Fund at The Luke Theatre.
Tickets for Let’s Fall In Love are available in advance at csasb.org/mcbroom or at the door. Reserved VIP seating is priced at $45 and general admission is $28.50. The Marjorie Luke Theatre is located at 721 E. Cota Street and free off-street parking is available.
Friday 3/28
COMEDY
Friday Night Laughs • Comedians from LA • Java Station • $20 • santabarbaracomedyclub.com • 7pm, Fri.
FAMILY
Animal Crossing Day • Step into the world of Animal Crossing at SBPL! Discover local art and adventure with the SB Museum of Art, SB Botanic Garden, SB Museum of Natural History, and Explore Ecology: crafting, fishing tournaments, garden activities • All ages! • Central Library, 40 E Anapamu St • Free • 2-4pm Fri, 3/28.
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
An Educating Conversation: Learning from Elders • SB Mission Archive-Library, 2201 Laguna St • SBAC.ca.gov • 6pm - 8pm, Fri, 3/28.
MUSIC
Westmont Choral Festival • El Montecito Presbyterian Church, 1455 East Valley Rd • 7pm Fri, 3/28.
KC and the Sunshine Band • Rock • Chumash Casino • $59-$89 • Chumashcasino.com • 8pm, Fri. 3/28.
OUTSIDE
Santa Barbara County Courthouse Docent Tours • Free • www.sbcourthouse.org • 10:30 am Mon-Fri & 2pm daily.
SPECIAL EVENTS
La Dolce Vita 2025: Tre • Opera Santa Barbara benefit gala • Montecito Club • $450-15,000 • OperaSB.org • 6pm Fri, 3/28.
Saturday 3/29
CHILDREN
Children’s Resource Fair
• Learn about free educational enrichment, childcare, summer programs, tutoring • Co-sponsor SBC Education Office! Explore library programs & services for the family! • Central Library, 40 E Anapamu St • Free • 10:30am-1:30pm, Sat, 3/29.
Storytime @ the Sea Center • stories of the sea • all ages • Free with admission • SBNature.org • 10:30–10:45am Sat & Sun.
COMEDY
South Coast Stand-Up Comedy • The Alcazar • $17-20 • TheAlcazar.org • 7pm Sat, 3/29.
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
SB GO Club • Play or learn the ancient strategic board game. All levels wecome • Questions: Lorin 805-4485335 • Free • Mosaic Coffee, 1131 State St • 11-4 Sat.
Crafternoon: Recycled Renaissance • EE Makerspace, 302 East Cota St • $8 • exploreecology.org • 2:30-4:30 Wed; 11:30-1pm Sat.
Olive Tree Kokedama Tree Workshop • Rafael Cordova will teach how to source materials, create, and care for your own. Materials provided • Domecil Studio, 1223 State St,• $125 • 11am Sat, 3/29.
MUSIC
Los Tranquilos • Mini Concert with music, food, art • MCASB• $20 • mcasantabarbara.org • 3-7pm Sat, 3/29.
Sounds on State: Cynthia Brando
• Music at Paseo Nuevo Center Ct • free • 4:30-6:30pm Sat, 3/29.
Chris Botti • presented by Graystone Promo • Grammy Award-winning trumpeter • The Granada • $63.50-102 • Granadasb.org • 7:30pm Sat, 3/29.
OUTDOORS
A Free Day of Flying Trapeze • Unity Shoppe & Trapeze Co, 131 East Haley St • Free • 1pm - 4pm Sat, 3/29.
Architectural Walking Tour
• Architectural Fdn of SB Sabado
Architectural Walking Tour Meet City Hall steps • Donation $20 • 10am Sat.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Candling Making • make tapered beeswax candles • Presidio, 123 E. Canon Perdido S • Free while supplies last • sbthp.org • 9-12 Sat, 3/22 & 3/29.
Spring into Spring • with Life at the Dumpling & T.W. Hollister • Klimpton Hotel • Curated by Trisha Cole, author
of Life at the Dumpling • 31 W Carillo • $71.21• 5:30-7:30 Sat, 3/29.
Blue Water Ball • benefits SB Channelkeeper • Filmmakers Howard & Michele Hall will present • Cabrillo Pavilion • sold out • bluewaterball.org • 5-9pm Sat, 3/29.
Candling Making • make tapered beeswax candles • Presidio, 123 E. Canon Perdido S • Free while supplies last • sbthp.org • 9-12 Sat, 3/29.
Sunday 3/30
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
In Conversation with Artist Joey Terrill • Terrill joins James Glisson, Chief Curator, SBMA, to discuss his activism, philosophy, & artistic practice • SBMA Mary Craig Aud. • $10-$15 • SBMA.net • 2-3:30 Sun, 3/30.
MUSIC
Amanda McBroom • Golden Globe Winner Singer/songwriter (The Rose) • Presented by Center For Successful Aging • Marjorie Luke Theatre •$28.50–45 • luketheatre.org • 3-5pm Sun, 3/30.
Mihali from Twiddle • reggae, rock, & uplifting mantras • SOhO • $18-68 • sohosb.com • 8pm Sun, 3/30. A Baroque Showcase • Young SBC musicians presented by SB Music Teachers Assoc. • 1st Congregational Church, State & Padre • $10 • 4pm Sun, 3/30.
OUTDOORS
Sundays at The Ranch • Barn animals, outdoor fun & tractor rides! • FREE First Sunday Concerts! • 11am –2pm Sun.
Ocean swim • with the Ocean Ducks at Butterfly Beach • Meet at bottom of West steps • Bring food to share after • 9am Sundays.
805-453-1139 www.comefromyourheart.com
Amanda McBroom
Paint a Kite During 1st Thursday
Thursday April 3rd from 5 to 8pm Corner of State and Anapamu St.
The Santa Barbara Kite Festival invites you to color and build your own kite! Color your kite (free of charge, while supplies last) and get ready for the Annual Santa Barbara Kite Festival, coming to the Great Meadow lawn on the west campus of Santa Barbara City College (Sunday, April 13, 11am -4pm). Festival staff will be on hand to help build kites and answer questions about kite flying and the festival.
Monday 3/31
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
Scrabble Club • Louise Lowry Davis Center • All levels/ English/Spanish • Free • 1-4pm Mon.
Tuesday 4/1
APRIL IS NATIONAL POETRY MONTH! COMEDY
Carpinteria Improv Drop-In Class • Learn improv with friends • Alcazar Theater • $10 at door • thealcazar.org • 7-9pm Tue.
Chess Club • Louise Lowry Davis Center • All levels/ English/Spanish • Free • 1-4pm Tues.
MUSIC
Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain • 40th Anniversary Tour • UCSB Arts & Lectures at Campbell Hall • $15-58 • Artsandlectures.ucsb. edu • 8pm Tue, 4/1.
POETRY
Juan Felipe Herrera: Migrant, Activist, Poet Laureate • Poetry Workshop 10-11am; Reception Garvin Patio 5:30-6pm; Poetry Reading Garvin Theatre 6-7pm; Book Signing 7-8pm Garvin • SBCC • 10am-8pm Tue, 4/1.
Wednesday 4/2
DANCE
Country Line Dancing • Dust off your boots for a boot-scootin’ good time • Soul Bites • $10 • soulbitesrestaurants.com • 6pm, Wed.
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
Mushroom Nature Journaling
• Gather 'round for fun and fungal nature journaling! SBM of Natural History MacVeagh House • $15/20 • Registration required at sbnature.org • 3-4:30pm Wed, 4/2.
Knitting & Crochet Club • Louise Lowry Davis Center • All levels/ English/ Spanish • Free • 9-11:30am Wed.
Mending Matters • Sewing & mending • Explore Ecology, 302 E Cota St in collaboration with & at the SB Public Library • Calendar.library.Santabarbaraca.gov • 5:30pm-7:30pm Wed.
THEATRE
Out of the Box Theatre Company
Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812
IN CELEBRATION OF THEIR 15TH ANNIVERSARY Out of the Box Theatre Company will present a limited engagement of the musical Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812. Directer by Samantha Eve, it will be performed April 4th to 13th, Friday to Sunday at Center Stage Theater.
Crafternoon: Recycled Renaissance • EE Makerspace, 302 East Cota St • $8 • exploreecology.org • 2:30-4:30 Wed; 11:30-1pm Sat.
Le Cercle Français • French conversation, all levels • The Natural Cafe, 361 Hitchcock Way • https://tinyurl.com/5ejbd9ye • Free • 5-6:30pm Wed.
MUSIC
OUR HOUSE • The Music of CSNY by Friends • Lobero • $59-115 • Lobero. org •7:30pm Wed, 4/2.
OUTDOORS
Volunteer Gardening • Join gardeners of all experience levels for a day of caring for Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden • 9-12pm Wed & 1st Sat.
POETRY
Poet Juan Felipe Herrera • migrant, activist, and the first Latino U.S. Poet Laureate •SBCC Garvin • Free • sbcc.edu • 10-11am | Poetry Workshop: The Creative Process of Writing Poetry; 5:30-6pm | Reception at the Garvin Theatre Outside Patio; 6-7pm | Poetry Reading & Commentary: The Raíces of My Poetry; 7-8pm | Book Signing • Wed, 4/2.
Thursday 4/3
1ST THURSDAY ART WALK
COMEDY
Backstage Comedy Club • Home to hilarious stand-up comedy • The Red Piano • $20-$25 • theredpiano.com • 7:30pm, Thu.
The narrative begins with the arrival of the impulsive and romantic Natasha Rostova, amidst the glittering opulent world of Moscow High Society. She is waiting the return of her fiancee from the front lines. However, she falls under the spell of an intoxicating Aristocrat. Then it is up to the unlikely hero, Pierre, to pick up the pieces of her shattered reputation. The play was inspired by a scandalous slice of Tolstoy’s War and Peace. "Playwright Dave Malloy’s dazzling, genre-defying musical is a ravishing party from start to finish," according to critics. Take in this Tony Award-winning spectacle that The New York Times hailed as “the most innovative and best new musical to open since Hamilton!”
Featuring Deborah Bertling (Marya), Michael Colón (Andrey/ Bolkonsky), Samantha Eve (Sonya), Quinn Halgrimson (Mary), Brian Hoyson (Pierre), Micheal Lao (Anatole), Maile Kai Merrick (Natasha), Marisol Miller-Wave (Hélène), CJ Smith (Balaga), and Nik Valinsky (Dolokhov). Lighting design is by Kai Kogo, set design by Richard Croy. Vocal direction is by Bella GarciaHolland, music by direction by Sio Tepper and Jezreel Real.
For tickets ($35-75) visit www.centerstagetheater.org or call 805-963-0408.
Parents in Chains • A new comedy about texts, treks, sex, and empty nests • all star cast! • ETC's
The New Vic Theatre • $29-$98 • etcsb.org • Through 3/30.
The Dowry of Princess Talia • Presented by Spring Break Theatre, this is a charming play filled with colorful characters • The Alcazar, 4916 Carpinteria Av • $5-7 • thealcazar.org • 4pm Tu-Th 3/2527; 7pm Fri, 3/28; 3pm Sat & Sun 3/29&30.
Crazy Mama • World Premiere Drama at Rubicon Theatre, 1006 E. Main St., Ventura • Laced with humor and pathos, this play follows a young girl’s decades-long dream of reconnecting with the mother she lost to mental illness • $20-50 • 3/26-4/6.
Crimes of the Heart • poignant and humorous exploration of the complexities of family and resilience by Ojai Art Center Theater • Free -$25 • Weekends, 3/28-4/20.
Tea With Ganna, Pearl & Beatrice • Presented by MORE Theater/SB • at Aloes in Wonderland • April 2,3,4,6 at 4pm • $30 • www.moretheatersb.com • 4/2-4/6.
Rachmaninoff and The Tsar • A New Musical Play Written by Hershey Felder & Directed by Trevor Hay • ETC's Old Vic Theatre $29-59 • ETCsb.org • 4/3 to 4/20.
Natasha, Pierre And The Great Comet Of 1812 • Out of the Box Theatre Co.'s musical inspired by a scandalous slice of Tolstoy’s War and Peace • Center Stage Theater • $30-75; under 18 free • Centerstagetheater.org • 4/4 to 4/13.
Santa Barbara Ghost Tours
Walk with Professor Julie as she shares tales of mystery and history... & meet friendly spirits
tour!
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Continued
SB POETRY MONTH
Chineke! Orchestra • International musicians • Granada Theatre • $10 to $123 • Camasb.org • 7:30pm, Thurs, 4/3.
Sax in the City Dance Party • DJ Darla Bea + Gerry Smith Jr. on saxophone • Figueroa Mtn. Brew Co. • No Cover • 7-10pm Thur, 4/3.
OUTDOORS
Santa Barbara Flea Market • Weekly at Earl Warren Showgrounds • Earlwarren.com • 7am-3pm, Thu.
Friday 4/4
DANCE
Spirits in the Air: Potent Potable Poetry reading set for April 2nd
A POETIC HAPPY HOUR will kick off the 11th annual Spirits in the Air: Potent Potable Poetry reading at the Good Lion on Wednesday, April 2nd from 4:30 to 5:30pm. It will be followed by the poetry reading itself from 5:30 to 6:30pm. The free event (and a no-host bar), is open to the public and will feature The Good Lion special poet-themed cocktails.
A group of invited poets will read their work, and the work of others, about libations of all sorts. Spirits in the Air will be hosted by George Yatchisin, “Drinkable Landscape” columnist for Edible Santa Barbara, food writer for the Santa Barbara Independent, and author of poetry volumes Feast Days and The First Night We Thought the World Would End and Santa Barbara next to be crowned Poet Laurette.
Featured readers will include Susan Chiavelli, Susie Read Cronin, Rebecca Horrigan, Robert Krut, Amy Michelson, Diana Raab, Linda Saccoccio, Daniel Thomas, Emma Trelles, and Jace Turner.
This reading is one of the events for 2025 Santa Barbara Poetry Month, in conjunction with April National Poetry Month.
“From Bacchus to Berryman, from Li Po to Dorothy Parker, drink and lyric flights have danced a long, sometimes loving, sometimes leery waltz,” Yatchisin noted. “This event will attest to the multi-faceted ways poets have found inspiration, solace, and yes, sometimes sickness in the bottle. In a time when an attention to words matters more than ever, this reading makes clear just how fun bringing the truth of poetry can be. This fantastic slate of readers looks forward to packing our fantastic partner The Good Lion once again.”
The Good Lion is located at 1212 State Street in Santa Barbara.
DANCE
Dancing With the Stars • Live dancing performance • Arlington Theatre • $73 to $224 • Arlingtontheatresb.com • 7:30 pm,Thu 4/3.
Star Party • SBMNH Palmer Observatory • View the Moon, nebulae, and galaxies • Free, weather permitting • 7:30-10pm Sat, 4/5.
SB GO Club • Play or learn the ancient strategic board game. All levels wecome • Questions: Lorin 805-4485335 • Free • Mosaic Coffee, 1131 State St • 11-4 Sat.
MUSIC
Sunday 4/6
CHILDREN
Storytime • With Local Author Robin Yardi & SB Museum Of Natural History • Chaucer's • Free • Chaucersbooks.com • 2-3pm Sun, 4/6.
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
Peña Flamenca • Improvisational Music & Dance • SB Historical Museum • RSVP required, SBHistorical.org • 7:30pm Fri, 4/4.
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
The Black Hole Explorer and the Edge of the Universe • with Joseph Farah is a UCSB fourth-year Ph.D. student • SB Museum of Natural History • sbnature.org • Free • talk starts at 7:30-9pm Fri, 4/4.
Tai Chi at the Garden • hosted by Master Yun Traditional Tai Chi & Kung Fu • SB Botanical Garden Island View Lawn • $10-15 • sbbotanicgarden.org • 9-10am Fri, 4/4.
Rhythm Industrial Complex • Validation Ale 102 E. Yanonali St • 7:30-10:30pm, Fri, 4/4.
Camerata Pacifica • Chamber Music • Hahn Hall, Music Academy of the West • $35 - $75 • 7pm Fri, 4/4.
SPECIAL EVENTS
A Lady Gaga Dance Night • With Dj Darla Bea! • SOhO • $24.5329.82 •21+ • 8pm Fri, 4/4.
Saturday 4/5
CHILDREN
Pathfinders: Growing for Pollinators • with Michelle Cyrfor ~ chn and families • Arroyo Room at SB Botanic Garden • Free w/ admission; registration required • sbbotanicgarden.org • 11am Sat, 4/5.
LECTURES/WORKSHOPS
Nature Journaling with John Iwerks • Entrance SB Botanic Garden • $25-35 • sbbotanicgarden.org • 9-11am Sat, 4/5.
The Art of Tea: A Ceremony of Taste and Tradition • f tea as both an art form and a sensory experience Art & Soul Gallery • $22-88 • RSVP
An Evening with Yo-Yo Ma • Reflections in Words & Music • Arlington Theatre • presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures • ArtsandLectures. ucsb.edu • Limited tickets at: 805-8933535 • 7pm Sat, 4/5.
The Derek Douget Band • Jazz saxophonist Derek Douget • $23-107 • Lobero.org • 7:30pm Sat, 4/5.
20th Century Works for Winds & Piano • SB Music Club •St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, 4575 Auhay Dr • Free • SBMusicClub.org • 3pm Sat, 4/5.
No Simple Highway • a musical celebration of the Grateful Dead • The Alcazar, 4916 Carpinteria Av • $25 • thealcazar.org • 7-11pm Sat, /5.
Unveiling of the Deepwater Diving Monument • Honoring the Birthplace of Deepwater Diving. SB Maritime Mueum hosts this tribute to SB’s rich heritage as the birthplace of deepwater diving. Special ceremony next to the SB Harbor • Free • 4:305pm Sat, 4/5.
Birds & Bees Bash Garden Gala
• Benefitting Planned Parenthood California Central Coast • Hilton SB Beachfront Resort • $100-25,000 • ppcentralcoast.org • 5:30pm Sat, 4/5.
Star Party • April 2025 Star Party moved to 1st Saturday, to avoid sched conflict • SB Museum of Natural History Palmer Observatory • sbnature.org • Free • talk starts at 8-10pm Sat, 4/5.
Recharge & Read in Nature
• Introduction to Forest Bathing. Relax in nature and unwind with nature-inspired books. Led by certified guide, Tamara Murray, this session follows the Japanese practice of shinrin yoku. No bathing involved! • Waiver required • Stevens Park, 258 Canon Dr • 10-11:15am Sat, 4/5.
Earth as Living Element: An Artist Lecture with Jackie Amézquita • SBMA • Free/$10 • SBMA.net • 2:30-3:30pm Sun, 4/6. Taubman Symposium Talk • Memory and Inheritance: Bearing Witness to My Grandmother’s Story by Elana K. Arnold • Jewish Federation of Greater SB, 524 Chapala St • ihc.ucsb.edu • 3-4:30pm Sun, 4/6.
Art KIT • Portfolios, Reels, Demos & Artist Statements with Armando Ramos & Chris Ulivo - both SBCC faculty • CAW, 631 Garden St • $10 • sbartscollaborative.org/artkit • 1-3:30pm Sun, 4/6.
MUSIC
Prime Time Band • more than 75 local amateur musicians Spring Concert • Lobero • FREE • Lobero.org • 2pm Sun, 4/6.
The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight • iconic Rock & Metal anthems with a hauntingly beautiful energy• The Granada • $52-119 • granadasb.org • 8pm Sun, 4/6. Flamenco Íntimo • An intimate concert in the Covarrubias Adobe • Featuring award-winning artists dancer Manuel Gutierrez (Spain), singer Pepele Mendez (Spain), guitarist Andres Vadin (Cuba), and percussionist Diego Alvarez (Venezuela). Dancer Alda Escarcega from our community will join the artists for the unforgettable evening• SB Historical Museum • $35-$500 • sbhistorical.org • Sun 4/6.
Frozen 5K • Ice in Paradise hosts benefit for Scott Hamilton Cares Fdn to help end cancer • 35 laps! • $35 • https://fundraise.scottcares.org/ IceinParadise • 12:30-1:30 Sun, 4/6.
STAY & PLAY • Share stories with kids • Eastside Library, 1102 E Montecito St ~ 9-10:30am Tu. MUSIC & MOVEMENT • Ages 2-5 • Central Library ~ 10:15-10:45am We. READ TO A DOG • Eastside Library, 1102 E Montecito St
You host George Yatchisin
Cycling Without Age
TAKE IN A FREE FILM SCREENING of the documentary Cycling Without Age at the Easide Library. Follow seniors as they take rides out into the great outdoors on trishaws, pedalpowered by volunteers. The Library is located at 1102 E. Montecito Street. The screening will be Friday, March 28th from 11:30am to 12:30pm.
Cinema Events:
Fifty Years in Sixty Minutes: An Evening with the Bob Dylan Center • Film Screening and Conversation with Director Steven Jenkins and Special Guest Jeff Bridges • Lobero • $30-60 • Lobero.org • 7:30pm Fri, 3/28.
Cycling Without Age • Doc Screening • Follow volunteers as they take seniors on pedal-powered trishaw rides • Free • SB Eastside Public Library, 1102 E. Montecito St. • 11:30-12:30 Fri, 3/28.
Courtesy photo
Trade War = Recession?
By Harlan Green / Special to VOICE
“I DON’T SEE ANY KIND OF WELLTHOUGHT-OUT, COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGY coming out of the White House,” said Bernard Baumohl, chief global economist at the Economic Outlook Group, a nonpartisan forecasting firm.
What is the White House strategy? Is it based on the campaign promises to bring down inflation on Day 1, eliminate waste and fraud, and cut regulations that impede new investments, such as in AI?
The White House to date is attempting to explain why it hasn’t developed a strategy. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent opined that, “The market and the economy have just become hooked, and we’ve become addicted to this government spending, and there’s going to be a detox period. There’s going to be a detox,” Bessent, a former hedge-fund manager, said during a CNBC interview.
This description of a “detox” period is alarming, because the term has nothing to do with an economic plan, or anything else, but in fact means the Trump administration is hinting that a recession may be required to wean the U.S. off what they deem as too many government services that benefit ordinary Americans rather than the Oligarchs that have jumped onto the Trump/Musk bandwagon.
Medicaid.
Douglas Holtz-Eakin, a former (Republican) director of the Congressional Budget Office, said it was a fine sentiment for a Treasury secretary to want to reduce government spending but noted that there was no GOP plan in sight to accomplish this goal in any sustainable way, according to MarketWatch.
Part of the problem in downsizing government is that it’s extremely difficult to bring federal government spending below 20 percent of Gross Domestic Product that is shown in the FRED graph dating from 2010. Spending surged above that level only twice to aid recoveries from the Great Recession and COVID pandemic.
Part of that surge was the Biden administration’s new, New Deal legislation that has already brought 700,000 manufacturing jobs home in the CHIPS, Infrastructure and Inflation Reduction Acts.
These were public/private investments that resulted in the U.S. having the fastest economic recovery from COVID-19 in the developed world.
By Harlan Green
Trumps says he also wants to bring manufacturing jobs home with the trade tariffs. But his singleminded emphasis on tariffs against friend or foe without negotiating up front will increase inflation, largely because it will be reciprocated, launching a trade war.
which will do exactly the opposite—make us less safe.
“It all seems to be very capricious,” continued Baumohl, “and I think this has been of great concern, not just to U.S. and foreign investors, but certainly to consumers, and we’ve seen that in the abrupt decline in confidence, which is now showing up in their spending patterns. Once consumers start to cut back, there is nothing that the government can do to make sure that the economy keeps out of recession, because we’re talking about 70 percent of all economic activity.”
Will such a strategy, or lack of it, work? American consumers are already starting to give the final word. The University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment survey showed consumers becoming even more pessimistic
about their future.
“Consumer sentiment slid another 11 percent this month, with declines seen consistently across all groups by age, education, income, wealth, political affiliations, and geographic regions. Sentiment has now fallen for three consecutive months and is currently down 22 percent from December 2024,” said Survey Director Joanne Hsu.
It looks like the Trump/Musk administration doesn’t want Americans to know what they are really up to, and it is leading to the wholesale destruction of the U.S. economy.
It will take more than picketing Tesla factories and dealerships for Americans to prevent what is sure to become a recession from happening.
The wet dream of Republicans and conservatives has historically been to downsize government to little more than military defense. That’s why Trump has targeted USAID and the Department of Education, as well as cuts to social security, Medicare, and
And rather than eliminating waste and fraud, the DOGE firings are downsizing or eliminating departments and agencies that make it work—such as the FAA, Energy Department, VA, and even social security—
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 • Coastal Housing Partnership Member
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VOICE Magazine • Community Market • LEGAL NOTICES
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER
: 25CV00922
Petitioner: Raul Eduardo Romero Borrayo filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Raul Eduardo Romero Borrayo to PROPOSED NAME: Raul Eduardo Borrayo Corona. 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: 4/21/2025; Time: 10:00 am; Dept.: 5; ROOM: [ ] other (specify): at the: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the courts website. To find your courts website, go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-my-court.htm.) 3 a. [X] A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks before the date set for hearing on the petition in a newspaper of general circulation: [x] (for resident of this county) printed in this county: VOICE MAGAZINE. Date: 3/3/2025 /s/: Colleen K. Sterne, Judge of the Superior Court. Legal #25CV00922 Pub Dates: March 14, 21, 28, April 4, 2025.
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER : 25CV00971
Petitioner: Anastacia Rosales filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Anastacia Rosales to PROPOSED NAME: Anastacia Yzaguirre. 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: 04/23/2025; Time: 10:00 am; Dept.: 3; 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: 02/28/2025 /s/: Thomas P. Anderle, Judge of the Superior Court. Legal #25CV00971 Pub Dates: March 7, 14, 21, 28, 2025.
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME - Amended CASE NUMBER: 25CV00332. Petitioner: Mayra Cristina Valdez Rodriguez filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Mayra Cristina Valdez Rodriguez to PROPOSED NAME: Mayra Cristina Valdez. 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: April 21, 2025; Time: 10:00 am; Dept.: 5; ROOM: [ ] other (specify): at the: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the courts website. To find your courts website, go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-my-court.htm.) 3 a. [X] A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks before the date set for hearing on the petition in a newspaper of general circulation: [x] (for resident of this county) printed in this county: VOICE MAGAZINE. Date: 3/04/2025 /s/: Colleen K. Sterne, Judge of the Superior Court. Legal #25CV00332 Pub Dates: March 21, 28, April 4, 11, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
STATEMENT: The following Corporation is doing business as INDEPENDENT LIVING RESOURCE CENTER, INC. at 423 W. Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. ACCESS CENTRAL COAST at 423 W. Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on March 19, 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. 2025-0000748. Published March 28, April 4, 11, 18, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT: The following Corporation is doing business as SANTA BARBARA HOT TUBS at 4285 State Street, Santa Barbara CA 93110. HOTSPRING PATIO & SPA INC. at 4285 State Street, Santa Barbara CA 93110. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on February 27, 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. 2025-0000543. Published March 7, 14, 21, 28, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
STATEMENT: The following Individual is doing business as CULTUREWISE LINGUISTICS at 27 W Anapamu Street, Suite 160, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.
IFETAYO TITILOLA KUMASI-KA at 27 W Anapamu Street, Suite 160, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on February 20, 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. 20250000474. Published March 14, 21, 28, April 4, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
STATEMENT: The following Married Couple is doing business as FIXOLOGIST at 141 Holly Avenue, 9, Carpinteria, CA 93013. KEVIN ESTRADA at 141 Holly Avenue, 9, Carpinteria, CA 93013 and EDITH L MONTALVO at 141 Holly Avenue, 9, Carpinteria, CA 93013. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on March 14, 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. 2025-0000708. Published March 21, 28, April 4, 11, 2025.
AMENDED ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 24CV03393. Petitioner: Kristy Sharp and Jorge Leon filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Conner Matthew Palomares to PROPOSED NAME: Conner Matthew Leon. 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: 4/9/2025; Time: 10:00 am; Dept.: 3; 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: 11/22/2024 /s/: Thomas P. Anderle, Judge of the Superior Court. Legal #24CV03393 Pub Dates: March 7, 14, 21, 28, 2025.
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV01382. Petitioner: Yong Chen filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Yong Chen to PROPOSED NAME: Sherry Yong Chen Pretti. 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: May 2, 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: 3/14/2025 /s/: Donna D. Geck, Judge of the Superior Court. Legal #25CV01382 Pub Dates: March 21, 28, April 4, 11, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
STATEMENT: The following Individual is doing business as THE UDC AT SUGAR PLUMS at 14 Santa Clara Dr., Lompoc, CA 93436. MELINA A BOSCUTI at PO Box 940, Lompoc, CA 93436. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on February 26, 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. 20250000530. Published March 14, 21, 28, April 4, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT: The following Corporation is doing business as HOTSPRING SPA & PATIO at 4285 State Street, Santa Barbara CA 93110. SANTA BARBARA PATIO & SPA, INC. at 4285 State Street, Santa Barbara CA 93110. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on February 24, 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. 2025-0000498. Published March 7, 14, 21, 28, 2025.
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VOICE Magazine • Community Market • LEGAL
805.698.4318
Lic#B311003
BillJDalziel@gmail.com
WilliamDalziel.work
STEVE GOLIS
sgolis@radiusgroup.com www.radiusgroup.com
805-879-9606
CHRIS AGNOLI
Learn About Local Government Meetings
The Santa Barbara City Council meets most Tuesdays at 2pm • To learn more about the council and other City department meetings, visit www.santabarbaraca.gov
The Goleta City Council meets biweekly on Tuesdays at 5:30pm • To learn more about the council and other City department meetings, visit www.cityofgoleta.org
The Carpinteria City Council meets on the second and fourth Monday of the month at 5:30pm • To learn more about other City departments visit www.carpinteriaca.gov
The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors meets most Tuesdays at 9am • To learn more about other County departments visit www.countyofsb.org
Juan
Guerrero filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Ashley Cortes to PROPOSED NAME: Ashley Cortes Ibarra. 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: May 2, 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: 3/6/2025 /s/: Donna D. Geck, Judge of the Superior Court. Legal #25CV01281 Pub Dates: March 28, April 4, 11, 18, 2025.
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ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV01281
Petitioner:
Ricardo Cortes Gutierrez and Suleima Jazmin Ibarra
On the Street with John Palminteri
Photos and Stories by John Palminteri, Special to VOICE
New Wildland Community Plan Under Consideration
A NEW WILDLAND COMMUNITY PLAN has been prepared and is ready for the public’s review in Santa Barbara County. It shows high risk locations, weather information, and talks about home hardening. It goes to the Board of Supervisors in May.
“With the increased severity and frequency of wildfires in California, community wildfire planning is extremely important to help prepare for and adapt to wildfire. A Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) is a tool to help reduce the severity and impact of wildfires and facilitate community resilience” the plan introduction explains. “This CWPP will be developed consistent with the Healthy Forest Restoration Act of 2003 and the County of Santa Barbara CWPP Development Process guidelines. CWPPs are collaborative agreements, developed by at-risk communities in consultation with various interested parties and agreed to by the appropriate local government, fire department, and State Forester. Consistent with the Healthy Forest Restoration Act of 2003, this CWPP serves as a mechanism for gathering community input and identifying areas with high wildfire risk, and for identifying potential projects intended to mitigate wildfire risk. Additionally, the CWPP process is intended to provide the community a forum for identifying values at risk from wildfire, which may include people, property, natural resources, agricultural lands, cultural resources, economic interests, and infrastructure. The identification of these values at risk influences the potential wildfire risk reduction projects identified in this CWPP.”
For more, https://tinyurl.com/47s7br7n
Fed Funding Impacts Local Housing Program
NEW HOUSING ASSISTANCE VOUCHERS are on hold in Santa Barbara due to federal funding cuts. Those currently in the Section 8 program are said to be safe. 7700 on the waiting list continue to hope. For some it’s been years.
Housing Authority
Director Rob Fredericks said that last year about 150 vouchers were issued. That won’t be the case now with the new funding crisis. “We just can not issue vouchers to people on our wait list. They are going to have to wait longer and they have already waited years. Our wait list is over 7000 households,” Fredericks noted.
“They took two over $2-million dollars of our reserves to help other agencies that were in shortfall and what did that do? That creates a domino effect,” said Fredericks.
2nd Annual Polar Plunge
EARLIER THIS MONTH the Starfish Connection nonprofit hosted the second annual Polar Plunge where you jump in the ocean and recharge your body and mind. It is also in support of others facing life’s toughest challenges.
The Starfish Connection provides crisis funding to individuals and families on the central coast with urgent financial needs that cannot be met by other organizations or government funding (this can be for food, clothing, rent, bills, car repairs etc.).
thestarfishconnection.org
Doublewide Kings Rock!
THE DOUBLEWIDE KINGS PUT ON A STIRRING TWO-HOURPLUS-ENCORE PERFORMANCE of Rolling Stones songs Saturday night at the Alcazar Theatre in Carpinteria. It’s as three show weekend with Friday and Saturday sold out. Sunday at 4:30pm still had still has seats available.
Classic rock in a vintage performance venue.
Fatal Fall in Isla Vista
A UC SANTA BARBARA FRESHMAN STUDENT HAS DIED after a late evening fall from a breezeway balcony at the San Rafael dorms on February 14th. The victim, 18-year old Elizabeth Hamel was in a coma before passing away. The incident was confirmed by the university to KEYT after it was recently posted on social media. Hamel’s father also confirmed the death and said she was “my daughter, my friend, my TV buddy, and my constant source of pride. I miss her with every breath, but I am endlessly grateful for every moment we shared.”
Circumstances of the fall and other details are unclear. Her father said Hamel’s phone and ID were discovered at an off campus bar.
John Palminteri
African Coral Tree ~ Erythrina afra
By David Gress / Special to VOICE
HE AFRICAN CORAL
TREE is one of the most spectacular flowering trees. It is the largest of more than a dozen coral tree species that grow in our area and has the most magnificent floral display. Its large clusters of coral-colored flowers are remarkable standouts in the landscape, particularly as they appear on nearly bare branches during a short deciduous period.
While being native to the coastal regions of southeast Africa, from the Cape province to Natal, the African Coral Tree is perfectly suited to our community, because both areas have similar Mediterranean climates.
The African Coral Tree was introduced to Santa Barbara in 1908 by the pioneering horticulturist and nurseryman, Dr. Francesco Franceschi. Since then, it has been frequently planted in coastal areas throughout Southern California. Its popularity can be attributed to its relatively fast growth, gorgeous flowers, and dense canopy of leaves. Its beauty has garnered such admiration that it has been designated the official tree of Los Angeles.
This medium- to large-sized tree can reach 25- to 40-feet tall with an equal spread. Most are almost evergreen but may be briefly deciduous in winter.
Flowering occurs from late winter to early spring, when dark orange to scarlet blooms appear in massive clusters (8 inches across) at or near the end of its branches - with up to 80 flowers per cluster! Each exotic-looking flower has a primary petal (called a banner) that arches back to expose the reproductive parts. Abundant flower nectar and vibrant colors attract insect and bird pollinators.
After the flowers are pollinated, their leathery brown seed pods (6- to 8-inches long) develop and are deeply constricted around the seeds. As pods age, they split open to reveal up to five bright-red oval seeds. Beware: despite their attractive appearance, the seeds are highly toxic and poisonous to eat.
When flowering is over, new dark green compound leaves emerge on 8-inch-long leaf stems, called petioles, each bearing three diamond-shaped (deltoid) leaflets (2- to 5-inches in length and width).
The bark has hues of yellow green; in time, it will turn gray. On young trees, the trunks and limbs can have longitudinal fissures; with maturity, these will become smooth. On young growth, short prickly thorns are pointedly evident; with age, these will often disappear. Unfortunately, its wood is soft and brittle, which can result in rather dramatic breakage of heavy limbs and even trunks. Consequently, regular - and significantpruning is required.
The botanical name for the African
Coral Tree is Erythrina afra. The genus name, Erythrina, is from the Greek word erythros, meaning red, and refers to the color of its flowers and seeds. Its recently changed specific epithet, afra, denotes its origins in South Africa. It goes by other common names, including Cape Coral Tree and Coastal Coral Tree.
Also frequently grown in Santa Barbara is its close relative, Erythrina coralloides, the Naked Coral Tree, which looks somewhat similar and is often confused with the afra. A simple way to tell the difference is from their leaf habits. The Naked Coral Tree, as its name suggests, is fully deciduous during winter, whereas the African Coral Tree is mostly evergreen year-round. All species of coral trees are in the plant family Fabaceae, which includes legumes, peas, and beans.
can be damaged if the temperature drops below 28 degrees F. It does well in most soil types found in Santa Barbara. When selecting a location to plant this tree, take into consideration its large size at maturity - give it plenty of room to accommodate its impressive branching structure and sprawling surface roots. It does prefer a spot with full sun.
With its broad spreading canopy and colorful flowers, the African Coral Tree makes a lovely ornamental shade tree with a bold appearance for large private gardens, as well as for public parks and open spaces.
The African Coral Tree is easy to grow. To propagate trees from seed, prepare the seeds by soaking them in warm water for a couple of days. The seeds that sink will be viable and should germinate within two weeks. Trees can also be propagated from stem cuttings, which will produce plants that are genetically identical.
Fortunately for us, the African Coral Tree is relatively drought tolerant. Of course, it will do better with infrequent deep watering during dry seasons - but mature trees can generally survive on just our normal rainfall. However, it is not frost-tolerant and
Mature specimens of the African Coral Tree can be seen in the center of Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, on the Fiqueroa Street side of the County Courthouse, at the Santa Barbara Harbor (mixed with Naked Coral Trees), on the north and south sides of Highway 101 at Garden Street, in the 3900 Block of State Street, at the corner of Cota Street and Chiquita Road, and at the corner of Barker Pass and Eucalyptus Hill Road. A large number also stand at various locations on the campus of UC Santa Barbara.
Tree-of-the-Month articles are sponsored by Santa Barbara Beautiful, whose many missions include the increase of public awareness and appreciation of Santa Barbara’s many outstanding trees and, in a long-time partnership with the City Parks & Recreation Department, the funding and planting of trees along the City’s streets. www.sbbeautiful.org
African Coral Tree
Photos by David Gress
African Coral Tree bark
African Coral Tree Flower
Rod Lathim Presents A Benefit Concert for the Center for Successful Aging
Golden Globe Award Winning Singer/Songwriter of Bette Midler’s hit song THE ROSE
Amanda McBroom
Let’s Fall In Love
AN AFTERNOON OF MUSICAL ROMANCE & LAUGHTER
Well-loved standards by Cole Porter and the Gershwins And heartfelt new love songs by Amanda With Michele Bourman and Larry Tuttle
“One of the greatest cabaret performers of her generation, who writes like an angel and has a voice to match.” New York Times
Sunday March 30th 3pm
Marjorie Luke Theatre 721 E. Cota St.
Tamsen Gallery
Reminiscence
OSCILLATING BETWEEN ABSTRACTION AND FIGURATION,
Loan Chabanol uses bold colors to express her art. An exhibition of her work will open at Tamsen Gallery, 1309 State Street, on April 3rd during April’s 1st Thursday Art Walk.
“Chabanol’s artwork blends whimsical storytelling with bold, expressive colors, creating immersive worlds that spark curiosity and emotion. She is passionate about exploring themes of self-discovery, resilience, and imagination through visual art. Her multidisciplinary background influences her artistic approach, making her work both cinematic and deeply personal,” the Gallery statement reads.
The exhibition will run through May 31st.
Chabanol is a French-American painter. Born in Paris, she was an artistic child who spent her early years studying with artist Bernard Bistes. Discovered at the age of 16 by Elite Model Management, she embarked on a modeling career in Europe, gracing the covers of magazines such as Elle, Marie Claire, and Cosmopolitan, as well as being the face of OLAY, VICHY, and L’ORÉAL. In 2010, she moved to New York to study acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute. While in New York, Chabanol returned her attention to her first love: painting.
“Nothing is ever truly final; it’s all about the journey. My brushes are my home, and they have always felt that way. Gradually, a style establishes itself on the canvas, shapes of first loves, animals emerging, bringing forth the need to feel their healing energy and vibration,” commented Chabanol in her artist statement. TamsenGallery.com
Painting by Loan Chabanol
Loan Chabanol
Inspired by early biomimetic approaches, Kerem Çamsarı’s work evokes features of neural connectivity
BBy James Badham / The UC Santa Barbara Current
Y HARNESSING THE POWER
OF RANDOMNESS,
Kerem Çamsarı and his research team are paving the way for technology that mimics the human brain.
Çamsarı, an associate professor in electrical and computer engineering, and his team — doctoral students Navid Anjum Aadit, Shaila Niazi, Kemal Selçuk, and Nihal Sanjay Singh and postdoctoral researcher Shuvro Chowdhury — has received the prestigious Misha Mahowald Prize in Neuromorphic Engineering. The team was honored for their work on stochastic neuromorphic computing with probabilistic bits, including a $10,000 cash prize.
Named after the late Misha Mahowald, who pioneered the field of biomimicry, the award honors his legacy of research into systems designed to emulate natural processes.
The human brain operates through networks of neurons that enable both communication and computation. Çamsarı, director of the Orchestrating Physics for Unconventional Systems (OPUS) Lab, explained that his lab’s central challenge is to design electronic circuits and systems that capture certain aspects of this functionality. In their work on probabilistic bits (p-bits), the team draws inspiration from early biomimetic approaches, but intentionally adopts a model that is simplified compared to the intricate behavior of biological neurons. In this way, while the systems evoke some
features of neural connectivity, they are not intended to fully replicate the complexity of biological neural circuits.”
Çamsarı’s lab has attracted considerable attention for developing and applying p-bits to address high-order optimization problems with enhanced speed and energy efficiency compared to traditional computing methods. In words of appreciation for the award, Çamsarı acknowledged the pioneering contributions of both Misha Mahowald and her mentor, Caltech professor Carver Mead.
Eagles Nest Ocean Views
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A central concept in Çamsarı’s research is network sparsity. In many machinelearning models, he noted, every neuron is connected to every other neuron — a configuration that is manageable in software but poses significant challenges for hardware because of the extensive wiring it requires. He explained that like the phenomenon of“six degrees of separation”: although individuals in a community may not be directly acquainted, they remain only a few introductions away from any other person. Similarly, in a sparse network, each p-bit is not directly connected to every other p-bit yet remains accessible through a limited number of intermediary connections.
Their research also focuses on quantum simulation, specifically on determining which problems truly require qubits (quantum bits) and which can be addressed effectively using p-bits. That consideration, Çamsarı explained, is particularly relevant for tasks such as simulating molecular properties, a critical step in drug design. By making it possible to simulate and test new molecular configurations without resorting to costly experimental setups, these approaches highlight the complementary roles of p-bit and quantum-based methods. While p-bits can efficiently tackle a range of optimization problems, he acknowledged, certain challenges, such as those in drug discovery, molecular prediction, and chemical simulations, where quantum computers remain indispensable. This ongoing dialogue continues to shape the field.
Kerem Çamsari Associate Professor Electrical & Computer Engineering
Kerem Çamsari’s research interests include Nanoelectronics, Spintronics, Emerging Technologies for Computing, Digital and Mixed-signal VLSI, Neuromorphic and Probabilistic Computing, Quantum Computing and Hardware Acceleration.
Courtesy
Photo
In honor of National Poetry Month and Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home
Laureate JUAN FELIPE HERRERA:
Migrant, Activist, Poet
Join us for a day of inspiration with Maestro Juan Felipe Herrera!
DATE: APRIL 2, 2025
10 - 11 A.M.
Poetry Workshop: “The Creative Process of Writing Poetry” at the Garvin Theatre
5:30 - 6 P.M.
Reception at the Garvin Theatre Outside Patio
6 - 7 P.M.
Poetry Reading with Commentary: “The Raíces of My Poetry” at the Garvin Theatre
7 - 8 P.M.
Book Signing at the Garvin Theatre Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home is a national pu blic humanities initiative directed by Library of America with generous support from the National End owment for the Humanities and Emerson Collective, comprising a groundbreaking anthology, events aroun d the country, and an online media archive.
