VOICE Magazine: January 24, 2025

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Parents In Chains: An ETC World Premiere

By Mark M. Whitehurst / VOICE

FRESH NEW COMEDY about texts, treks, sex, and empty nests, will shed light on parenting in the 21st century. Parents In Chains, in its world premiere, will open at the Ensemble Theatre Company, in association with J. Todd Harris, on Wednesday, March 12th, and run through Sunday, March 30th at the New Vic Theatre.

Parents in Chains is a play about six L.A. parents who exchange texts as their 17-year-old daughters drive home from a weekend in San Francisco during the approach of a hurricane. The trip and the inclement weather bring out both the best and the worst in the parents as they confront, – as a group, as couples, and as individuals, – what it means to let go of their kids. The dialogue is viciously comic and poignant. Written by Emmy and Peabody awardwinner Jay Martel, the play will be directed by Andy Fickman (Heathers The Musical and Reefer Madness).

“I’ve noticed (and this is not an original discovery) that texting causes people to express themselves in a very primal, sometimes primitive way that I find very entertaining — and fortunately, our audiences do, too!” commented Martel, playwright for Parents In Chains, in an email interview with VOICE Magazine

Illuminating conversations that are entirely electronic opens a new realm of imagination.

“The first time I read the play - I was in - hook,

line and sinker” commented Fickman, director of Parents in Chains, also in an email interview with VOICE Magazine. “I am a father of two - who, like many parents these days, has spent far more time texting with the parents of my kids’ friends than ever speaking with them for long periods of time on the phone. While we treat it as a time saver - in reality - it can have the opposite effect. The waiting for a response game can go for minutes...hours... even days. The sheer decoding needed to understand the other person’s tone and delivery - can be exhausting - were they trying to be funny or were they being serious? You read their words - but you hear their voices in your head - with your delivery. I found Jay’s play rich with opportunities to explore this very modern phenomena.”

Interpersonal relationships developing from texting offers a simple way of knowing, but often leaves texters wanting to know more.

“I have been on many text chains with other parents that have led to Parents In Chains, especially when the chain binds together several parents with similar concerns about their children. And of course, there is nothing that makes people crazier than concerns about their children. Like the parents in the play, I have teenage children who are either on their way to college or already there, and I was surprised at the emotions that these transitions brought out in me and in others,” related Martel.

When asked about how texting affects the rhythm of the play, Fickman replied, “What I love is how seemless the device is for the audience to immediately find themselves invested. So it actually makes the structure really flow with a comedy rhythm. For the most part - everyone texts - and if they don’t - they know someone who does. So the build up of stating one’s case and waiting for the response provides perfect comedic and dramatic opportunities on stage.”

The ETC is thrilled to be presenting this world premiere.

“Parents in Chains is a hilarious and inventive new play that captures the chaos and heart of modern family life in a way that’s fresh and unforgettable,” said Scott DeVine, executive artistic director of Ensemble Theatre Company of Santa Barbara. “The script is razor-sharp, and the innovative use of text messaging as a storytelling device adds a uniquely contemporary twist. This production perfectly reflects Ensemble Theatre Company’s mission to celebrate the human spirit with bold, imaginative works that push the boundaries of how stories are told on stage. I am thrilled to bring this amazingly talented team of award-winning artists to Santa Barbara and I can’t wait for our community to experience the laughter and surprises of this one-ofa-kind world premiere.”

Sharon Lawrence is the first cast member to be announced. Additional casting information will be revealed soon. Lawrence is an award winning actor and a native of North Carolina. She began acting at UNC-Chapel Hill in summer stock. Her professional career began soon after on Broadway in the 1987

and Chicago.

Lawrence recently had a series regular role in the Paramount + series Joe Pickett based on the best seller of the same name. Previously she starred opposite Kirsten Dunst in the Showtime series On Becoming A God In Central Florida, , and as an elusive librarian in Home Before Dark for Apple TV. She also had recurring roles including Rebel with Katy Sagal and Andy Garcia, a serial killer in CBS’s Criminal Minds, Fiona’s acerbic boss on Showtime’s Seamless, Sam Elliott’s love interest in The Ranch, as well as in the critically acclaimed series Queen Sugar produced by Ava DuVernay.

She established her television career in the 1990’s on programs like Cheers and Star Trek: Voyager. In 1993 she was cast as Assistant District Attorney Sylvia

revival of Cabaret. She also performed in Fiddler on the Roof, Zorba,

Jay Martel, Playwright

Photo courtesy of Jay Martel

Andy Fickman, Director

Courtesy Photo

Costas in the ABC police drama series NYPD Blue created by Steven Bochco.

Lawrence received a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series, a Satellite Award for Best Actress – Television Series Drama, and several Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. She also received three additional Emmy Awards nominations for her later television performances. Lawrence is the Second Vice President of the SAGAFTRA Foundation.

A multiple genre writer, playwright Jay Martel has won Emmy, Peabody, Writers Guild of America, and American Comedy awards. He was a showrunner and head writer on Key & Peele in addition to many other comedy series, including Alternatino, Teachers, Halfway Home, and Strangers With Candy. His plays have been staged in New York and Los Angeles. His third novel, The Present, was published in 2022, and the movie version, starring Greg Kinnear and Isla Fisher, was recently released worldwide. He’s written numerous movies, including Get Hard, starring Will Ferrell and Kevin Hart, and is a contributor to The New Yorker, where his humor appears regularly.

An award-winning director, writer, and producer, whose work spans film, television, and theater, Andy Fickman is as busy as he is creative. He recently directed Heathers the Musical, which wrapped a record-breaking, sold-out run at The Other Palace in London. The production won multiple awards, and has completed two successful UK/Ireland tours. Before its transfer to the West End, the show had a successful New York run at New World Stages, where it was nominated for multiple Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, and Lucille Lortel

awards. The show premiered in Los Angeles to sold-out, standing-room-only audiences. He recently completed a workshop of the musical adaptation of the hit film 13 Going on 30 in London. Fickman also directed Reefer Madness: The Musical in both Los Angeles and New York, which won him Best Director awards at the Ovation Awards and Drama Critics Awards, then directed and produced the filmed version for Showtime.

Parents in Chains producer J. Todd Harris is the founder and president of Branded Pictures Entertainment based in Los Angeles. He has produced or executive produced over 50 films, including Oscarnominated Trial of the Chicago 7 and The Kids Are All Right, along with five Sundance entries, including Bottle Shock. For stage, he produced Heathers The Musical and musical adaptations of Doctor Zhivago and American Psycho for Broadway. He’s currently co-producing Soul Train and Buena Vista Social Club. He is a lead producer on soon-to-be unveiled Phenomenal Woman Maya Angelou and Death at a Funeral. He’s a 25-year member of the Motion Picture Academy and was a Broadway League member from 2015-2018. Harris has taught at Chapman University and Syracuse University’s LA campus. He earned his BA and MBA from Stanford University.

PARENTS IN CHAINS will open on Wednesday, March 12 at 7:30pm and perform through Sunday, March 30 at 2pm. Performances are Wednesdays at 2pm & 7:30pm, Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3pm & 8pm, Sundays at 2pm. There will be added performances on Tuesday, March 18 & Tuesday, March 25 at 7:30pm.

prices range from $25 - $94.

Patrons 35 and under are always $35. Student tickets are $25. Single tickets are available through the ETC ticket office at (805) 965-5400, or online at etcsb.org. Prices subject to change.

Condoleezza Rice

Actress Sharon Lawrence

Courtesy Photo

Western Bluebird

By Rebecca Coulter, Santa Barbara Audubon Society | Special to VOICE

“The bluebird carries the sky on his back.”

HENRY DAVID THOREAU’S OBSERVATION of what was likely a male Eastern Bluebird also beautifully describes its close relative, the Western Bluebird we enjoy year-round. This small thrush feasts on abundant berries throughout the winter, gathering wherever juniper, toyon, and mistletoe are plentiful. Many birders listen for

~ Sialia mexicana

the bluebirds’ soft “chew-chew-chew” calls as the birds fly overhead. In spring, Western Bluebirds will often use nest boxes, which has helped them recover from human-caused habitat loss. As we celebrate a new year and look to the sky, we look for the Western Bluebird, who brings it to us.

For more information visit SantaBarbaraAudubon.org or call 805-964-1468

Michael Flowers Joins Dreams for Veterans Program

TO BETTER SUPPORT HIS FELLOW VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES, U.S. Marine Corps veteran Michael Flowers has joined the advisory council of Dream Foundation’s Dreams for Veterans program.

Flowers served in the United States Marine Corps for 24 years before retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel. He has since held various leadership and management positions within the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, drawing on his experience and expertise from his years of service. In addition to his commitment to Dreams for Veterans, Flowers has served on numerous boards, including the USAA Insurance and Financial Services Advisory Panel, the Department of Veterans Affairs Epilepsy Centers of Excellence National Advisory Board, and the American Lung Association of the Southeast.

Dreams for Veterans honors veterans by fulfilling their final Dreams, providing them, their families, and their caregivers joy, comfort, and closure at the end of life. Veterans Advisory Council members support the program with professional expertise, connections to local and national resources, philanthropic care, and other needed assistance. dreamfoundation.org

Equine-assisted Services Program Has a

New Board President

Community News

Community Seed Swap Returns

GARDENERS WILL GATHER TO SHARE SEEDS, SMILES, AND MORE at the 17th

Annual Santa Barbara Community Seed Swap on Sunday, January 26th, from 11am to 4pm at the Community Arts Workshop. Hosted by the Santa Barbara Permaculture Network, the free event will feature live music, plant-related exhibits, activities for all ages, and special speakers throughout the day. Guests can bring seeds, cuttings, and plants to swap, as well as talk plant tips with other backyard gardeners, beekeepers, farmers, and more.

The event will also honor a Local Food Hero, with an awards ceremony to be held at 1:30pm. This year the award will be presented to Mesa Harmony Garden.

The Community Arts Workshop is located at 631 Garden St. For additional details, visit sbpermaculture.org

CycleMAYnia Returns to Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA WILL GET ROLLING ALL MONTH LONG when CycleMAYnia returns this May with the theme “Bike Your Way,” focusing on biking activities for all ages and abilities. Residents and community organizations are invited to apply for up to $500 in mini grants to help with organizing events that promote or celebrate biking. The public can also submit any planned bike-related activities and events happening in May to the event calendar. The city anticipates as many as 30 events will take place in 2025, with support from local partners and grant submissions going to cover costs like snacks, prizes, and advertisements in an effort to encourage the public to get out and ride. The application and event submission forms will be available until Friday, February 7th. For more details, or to complete an application, visit cycleMAYnia.org

Solstice Poster Contest Invites Artists to Show

Their Wild Side at Wylde Works

LOCAL ARTISTS LOOKING TO GET “WILD” with the 2025 Solstice Parade and Festival are invited to submit their work for this year’s Solstice Poster Art Contest. Artworks will be presented at Wylde Works during the Opening Artists Reception on Saturday, February 15th, from 5 to 9pm, and will remain on display until the closing reception on February 22nd, after which it we be available online until voting closes on February 27th.

Tara Barnicoat

TARA BARNICOAT, with over a decade of experience in secondary education and college counseling, will serve as president on the Santa Ynez Valley Therapeutic Riding Program Board. With a strong background in volunteer program management and board service, Barnicoat will lead a program that currently serves 61 students weekly, with a waiting list of over 20 individuals, and provides equine-assisted services for children and adults with physical, learning, social, behavioral and emotional challenges. The program relies on grant funding and community support to continue providing services to those in need. Barnicoat’s mother, Tina McEnroe, was a founding board member and prior Board President, as well as Interim Executive Director, and Barnicoat herself started with the program in high school. syvtherapeuticriding.org

The theme of this year’s Solstice festivities is “Wild World”. Solstice will provide the wording for the poster, leaving artists free to express their vision for the poster. Collection of artwork for the contest will take place Thursday, February 13th, from 11am to 5pm at the Solstice Office, located at 924 Anacapa Street, Suite 3-H. Artwork must be ready to hang, with the title of the artwork, artist name, address, email, and phone number on the back. Artists should remember that the final poster formats will be 18 x 24 portrait or 24 x 18 landscape.

The entry fee is $15 per entry.

Wylde Works is located at 609 State Street. For info, email artstaff@solsticeparade.com

Photos by Susan Cook

Michael Flowers

Clothing and Culture Featured at CANVAS Boutique

By Destin Cavazos/VOICE

TURNING HEADS WITH TRENDY LOOKS AND LOCAL CHARM,

CANVAS Boutique has set up shop in State Street’s Arts District. Offering colorful clothing along with a selection of home goods, art pieces, and other accessories, the boutique brings a sense of brightness to classic designs, inviting shoppers to step into the store’s unique styles.

“I enjoy trying to find what mix is right for my demographic,” said CANVAS founder Karen Johnson. “Which is kind of everybody. I’m constantly buying new stuff for the store, because I want people to be surprised when they walk in and see something they didn’t expect.”

Johnson, a UCSB grad, had previously operated clothing, shoe, and homeware stores in Northern California, but CANVAS marks her first venture in sunny Santa Barbara. After moving back to town six months ago, she said she resonated with the sense of curated community she’d left behind, and, noticing the lack of local spaces that embodied this, quickly set out to create a store that reflected a more approachable energy. In bringing the new space to State, she found it important to provide more than just stylish clothes, but to give shoppers a store that feels both familiar and fashionable.

“I always loved Santa Barbara’s unique culture of art, dance, music, architecture, sports, food, and shopping,” she shared. “We carry jewelry, clothing, and beautiful things for your home that people who live here, or who love it here, can appreciate.”

Opened in October of 2024, CANVAS features a variety of products to add a little something stylish to your life, from specially crafted jewelry pieces and artisanal sneakers, to locally sourced goods and handcrafted home decor, and much more. A kaleidoscopic collection of sweaters brightens the racks, jars of seaglass sparkle from the shelves, and local artists hang their work on the walls, all while Johnson herself checks in and chats with customers, as if you’d stepped into her lushly decorated living room and not her local business. Johnson said she hopes the bright colors and breezy ambiance draw in locals and visitors alike, sharing that her shop already feels at home within the city’s one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

“I worked at an art gallery in La Arcada, and did freelance painting for a furniture company as well,” shared Johnson on the culture that drew her downtown. “My block of State Street is quintessential Santa Barbara. Charming, historic, and very much a neighborhood. I think people from near and far are attracted to a locally owned business, rather than a corporate store. They are attracted to the colors, curation, and curiosity of the products.”

Of course, Johnson said the area’s casual climate has boosted business as well.

“One thing that’s great about Santa Barbara is we’re not limited with our product line,” she laughed.“We can sell sweaters in the summer or something lighter in the winter, because the weather really allows for any kind of outfit.”

In bringing a collection of unique items for both hangers and homes, Johnson said she hopes she’s able to help others fill their lives with a sense of style that best suits them.

“What you like to wear is kind of like what you want in your house,” shared Johnson, who admits much of her shop’s inventory is closely cultivated to match her own aesthetic. “I tend to buy things that I think fit my style, but I want people to be able to pick and choose to create their own vibe.”

Located at 1307B State St, CANVAS is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 5pm. For more information, call 805-679-5775

CANVAS owner Karen Johnson

Photos courtesy of CANVAS

SBIFF Unveils 2025 Festival Poster & Program

By Robert F. Adams, Special to VOICE

ILMMAKING

DRAMA

AT ITS

BEST

will be on view at the 40th Santa Barbara International Film Festival, as they offer a range of screenings, tributes, panels, and discussions to fascinate cinestas from around the world.

“Art is created in our darkest moments. As the tragic events in our sister city of Los Angeles were unfolding, we debated about moving forward with the festival. Film has always been about renewal, and film festivals play a vital role in fostering a sense of connection. Festivals build community, and create an outlet for the process of feelings. In light of this, it became very clear that we move forward with our 40th edition. The twelve days of the festival will be dedicated to the City of Angels, and we will raise funds for LA in partnership with Direct Relief International,” commented Roger Durling, Executive Director of SBIFF, at Sullivan Goss Gallery.

The festival will screen movies from 60 countries with a whopping 32 world premieres of narrative features, documentaries, animated works, and a wide variety of shorts.

According to Programming Director Claudia Puig, “This year’s lineup, featuring films from Peru to Kazakhstan, showcases a diverse range of globally relevant themes, from thoughtprovoking explorations of social justice to pressing environmental challenges. We are confident that these films—a record number of which were made by women (52 percent) will be loved by audiences as much as they are by our programming team.”

The Festival opens on Tuesday, February 4th with the US premiere of Jane Austen Wrecked My Life (Jane Austen a Gâché Ma Vie) and will be welcoming the director-writer Laura Piani.

The Festival closes on Saturday, February 15th with the US premiere of A Missing Part (Une Part Manquante), written and directed by Guillaume Senez, a story set in Tokyo.

Some of the documentaries will incude Coastal directed by Daryl Hannah and featuring rock legend Neil Young, and the US premiere of Nova Ami and Velcrow Ripper’s Incandescence, a documentary from Canada looking at wildfires and various aspects that weave together stories of survival and adaptation. Filmmaking panels are organized including the Animation Panel,

a Writers Panel, an International Directors Panel, a Women’s Panel, and a Producers Panel with dates and times to be determined. All will be held at the Arlington Theatre.

AppleBox FREE Family Films returns to screen both Saturdays of the Film Festival, at 11am and 2pm, and will be showing the year’s top animated films at The Marjorie Luke Theatre, just eight blocks east of State Street at 721 East Cota. Titles will be announced later.

Mike’s FieldTrip to the Movies – named for renowned nature cinematographer Mike deGruy –will be offered to 4,000+ 4th to 6th grade students from Title I schools throughout Santa Barbara County. Also, this year will feature two in-person Q&As with Director Kesley Mann following INSIDE OUT 2 and Director Chris Sanders following THE WILD ROBOT. These animated movies are sponsored by Montecito Bank & Trust, US Bank, Yardi, John C. Mithun Foundation, and the Volentine Family Foundation.

The SBIFF Film Center, which was formerly the Fiesta Five (on State Street at Canon Perdido), will serve as the main hub, along with the Arlington for celebrity tributes and featured screenings. Also this year, the Riviera will screen programs and filmmaker seminars. Family films will take place at the Marjorie Luke theatre. Also announced was support by the Manitou Fund, along with two new Festival sponsors, Lexus and Sonos, maker and distributor of highend audio equipment.

New Passes will be part of the mix, with the Riviera Theatre pass being offered for films at the Riviera. Visit www.sbiff.org for more information on availability and scheduling for the wide-range of theatre venues.

THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL POSTER, called Bird Woman, was created by accomplished local studio artist Mary Heebner who has been creating mainly figurative work over the past few months that celebrates dancing, nature, and a hint of the marine environment. The 2024 poster artwork is imbued with pink and purple hues, is abstractly modern, and includes ancient Egyptian symbols. According to Heebner, “The symbols are Pre-Dynastic Egyptian symbology representing females and the air they breathed, as noted by the beak at her head. The colors represent joy and the main figure is like a dancer.” She continued, “My work is a collage made with mono-prints on handmade paper. There is an osprey below the main figure and the low horizon at the bottom represents the ocean and marine life.”

Bird Woman sees SBIFF Take Flight!

Robert F. Adams, Film Correspondent for VOICE, is a Santa Barbara landscape architect and a graduate of UCLA’s School of Theatre and Film, as well as Cal Poly. He has served on the film selection committees for the Aspen Film Fest

Festival.

Sullivan Goss Curator Susan Bush and Sullivan Goss Owner Nathan Vonk with SBIFF’s Sean Pratt

Artist Mary Heebner with SBIFF Executive Director Roger Durling

SBIFF Executive Director Roger Durling

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Letters to the Editor

Is amending the telecom ordinance worth the risks?

WE ARE ALL VERY CONCERNED with the devastating fires in Los Angeles. We have the opportunity and responsibility to take preventive measures in Santa Barbara County.

On Feb 4, 2025, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors will vote on amendments to the County Wireless Ordinance that will allow the telecoms to blanket our residential neighborhoods. The proposed ordinance removed notification, hearings, the opportunity to oppose, setbacks, and environmental protection. There is no monitoring, maintenance, fire safety protocols, and emergency shut offs. Instead, applications and permits will be “ministerial” aka rubber stamped.

What we need are added protections and robust check lists, including a requirement that every wireless facility be inspected, maintained, monitored, signed, and sealed by a licensed electrical engineer.

Four of the SoCal fires have been started by cell tower lashings, telecom equipment, and overloaded poles. Small cells close to homes will increase the risk of fires. Yet, no wireless carrier or their agents can get liability insurance for claims of injury, death, or illness.

The 2007 Malibu Fire was caused by an overloaded utility pole.

The 2018 Malibu Woolsey Fire cost $6 billion and consumed over 400 homes. SoCal Edison and two telecom lashing wires triggered the fire, due to improper engineering, faulty equipment, or installation.

The 2020 Silverado Fire was caused by a telecom loose lashing wire, forcing the evacuation of over 130,000 people. There are design and engineering flaws in almost every application for cell towers.

Telecom and utility initiated fires are not included in the Santa Barbara County and Municipal Wildfire Protection Plans.

Telecoms are exempt from most electrical and fire codes at the federal, state, and county levels.

Cell tower fires leave little or no time to evacuate. Dangerous electrical equipment fires cannot be put out with water and require waiting for the power to be shut off. Proliferation of powerful, small cell wireless arrays, adjacent to a home shows a disregard for human life and safety.

Do you want a powerful wireless facility, a few feet from your bedroom window? Do you want your property values decreased by 20%, huge carbon footprint, fire risk, health, safety, and environmental impacts?

Our public officials mistakenly think that their hands are tied regarding regulating wireless facilities. Other California local governments have created protective ordinances that follow federal regulations and protect public safety.

Please urge the County Supervisors (BOS) to Vote NO and direct the BOS and County Planning staff to do collaborative workshops with the community and their legal and fire experts, who have no conflicts of interest with the wireless industry, to red-line and amend this ordinance and add legal protections. Also, before the BOS votes on Feb. 4th, request that the BOS give Safe Technology for Santa Barbara County’s legal and fire experts, without conflicts of interest, 20 minutes for a Q&A.

Please join us Feb 4, 2025, at the Santa Barbara County Supervisors meeting. Send written comments to: sbcob@countyofsb.org

And, voice your comments: Board of Supervisors Methods of Participation: https://ca-Santabarbaracounty.civicplus.pro/2836/Board-of-Supervisors-Methods-of-Particip.

Urge the Supervisors to VOTE NO or abstain, if they are not sure, on the proposed amendments to the wireless ordinance. For more information contact: SafeTechSBC@gmail.com     http://emfsafetynetwork.org/safe-technology-for-santa-barbara-take-action/

By Lesley Weinstock, PA, Santa Barbara

McMansions coming to the lower Riviera, soon!

THE FERRELO/RUBIO ROAD NEIGHBORS had filed for and were granted an Appeal Hearing before the Santa Barbara Planning Commission regarding the building of a McMansion at 1269 Ferrelo Rd. The Applicant for the project wishes to demolish the existing 2,000 square foot house and replace it with a three story 5,000 square foot house with a two-story garage and a bridge going up to the garage from the street. This project will be right next door to a Moody Sisters House Structure of Merit and a D’ Alfonso house, both built in the 1930’s.

The neighbors were granted an Appeal Hearing for December 19, 2024. After three and a half hours of presentations, the Planning Commission, the Applicant’s Architect, attorney, and the Assistant City Attorney all agreed to continue the Hearing to January 16, 2025. The January 16th meeting was designated a “Continuance”, not a new meeting.

On January 13, three days before the Hearing date, the Assistant City Attorney unilaterally proceeded to cancel the continuance for January 16 without consultation with the Planning Commission or the Appellant. This is wrong. The neighbors were unfairly deprived of a Hearing on this Appeal.

This action violates the neighbors due process and civil rights and undermines the public trust.

The Assistant City Attorney decided that the Applicant could go forward with his permit process without delay.

Is this fair? Who does our local government work for? Does it work for the people, who will be deprived of their privacy, sunshine, and views, or does it work for those coming into Santa Barbara with a lot of money to build McMansions at the expense of those who have lived in this neighborhood for many, many years?

The city does not seem to care about its longtime residents or the historical nature of this lower Riviera neighborhood between Milpas St. and APS.

How do you feel about this?

By Rose Wills, Santa Barbara

Community News

Rep. Carbajal Comments on Pardon of January 6th Insurrectionists

RESPONDING TO THE RELEASE OF CONVICTED INSURRECTIONISTS, Congressman Salud Carbajal issued the following statement on President Donald Trump’s pardon of participants in the insurrection on January 6, 2021, including those responsible for attacking and injuring more than 140 law enforcement officers.

“America watched Donald Trump’s mob attack Capitol Police officers on live television. We watched them use bats, poles, pepper spray, stun guns, and other deadly weapons to violently assault the men and women protecting our Constitution. The attempt by this incoming Administration to rewrite those events must never be allowed to succeed, and the pardon of these insurrectionists is nothing short of a betrayal of those who put themselves in harm’s way to protect our democracy – including the memory of those who ultimately gave their lives to defend it,” said Rep. Carbajal. “On behalf of everyone who was present on that dark day, including those who were protected by these officers but still chose to side with the rioter’s side of history, I am sorry that our nation’s new leader is not more grateful for your service.”

Beautify Goleta Free Bulky Item Drop-Off

THE CITY’S FIRST BEAUTIFY GOLETA BULKY ITEM DROP-OFF event of the year is this Saturday, January 25th. If you are a City of Goleta resident, you are invited to come on down to the Mathilda and Ellwood Beach drive neighborhood in western Goleta from 9am to 1pm. This is the perfect opportunity to clear out your home, backyard, or garage and let go of those hard-to-manage items like old furniture, mattresses, and tires. This event is open to all Goleta residents. Just bring proof of residency (like a driver’s license or utility bill), and you’re good to go.

Please note, any drop-offs before or after the event will not be accepted. Electronics, medicine, and hazardous waste are NOT allowed.

Community News

Three Team Members Join Veggie Rescue

MARKING 15 YEARS IN THE WORLD OF FOOD WASTE REDUCTION, Santa Ynez Valley Fruit & Vegetable Rescue (aka Veggie Rescue) has added a trio of board members to further its mission of rescuing surplus produce and other foods from farms and businesses in Santa Barbara County and donating them to nonprofits serving food-insecure individuals.

ERYN SHUGART, PhD, will serve as Development Director. A Santa Barbara native with over 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience and a doctoral degree in social psychology from Claremont Graduate University, Shugart recently played a key role in opening Savie Health, the county’s only free clinic for uninsured residents. She has held senior roles including program director, operations director, and executive director, and has worked in senior administration with human services nonprofit organizations throughout the county for the past 20 years.

PHIL KORTE, serving as a Board Member, is the former owner of Edna’s bakery and a technology executive, having worked in the fields of data communications, data networking, equipment and voice, data, and Internet services. He has experience growing companies, in both communications and in the food industry. Edna’s bakery, when he purchased it, had two delivery vans, 140 customer, and 12 employees; when he sold it in 2022 had 22 delivery vans, 750 customers and 95 employees.

GREG KNISS retired as Chairperson of KROST CPA’s, KBKG tax consulting, and KROST Wealth. With over 40 years of experience in the financial services industry as a CPA, Kniss moved up through the ranks at KROST and became a partner in 1989. In 2001 Kniss founded KBKG, a tax consulting startup, introducing specialty tax strategies to the firm’s clients as well as the general market. He became Chairperson in 2022. Kniss has served on several boards, including the Ronald McDonald House, the California Restaurant Association; Prime Global, and the College of the Canyons, to name a few. veggierescue.org

Draft Recreation Master Plan Published and Ready for Public Comment

NOW AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC, the County of Santa Barbara, Community Services Department, Parks Division has published the Draft Santa Barbara County Recreation Master Plan, aimed at enhancing the quality of life and leisure experiences for Santa Barbara County residents of all ages.

It details new parks, trails, and recreational facilities in unincorporated communities throughout Santa Barbara County. A long-range plan to fund and construct public amenities to meet recreation needs, the Draft Plan proposes capital improvements, programs, funding, and implementation strategies for the unincorporated area over about 20 years.

It includes the proposed Recreation Benefit Project (RBP) Program, allowing private developments to contribute to the public recreation system. The County also proposes amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and zoning ordinances to support the Recreation Master Plan and the RBP Program.

Public comments on the Draft Plan are open until 5pm on Monday, February 24th. The plan can be found at https://tinyurl.com/34n6e4uj, with additional information available at www.sbcrecplan.com.

The County is also preparing a Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to analyze the potential environmental impacts of the Draft Plan.

To learn more about the Program Environmental Impact Report, a virtual environmental scoping meeting will be held on Thursday, February 6th, at 5pm. For more, visit https://tinyurl.com/yc6dthft bcrecplan.com

Old Spanish Days Announces Passing Of Fiesta’s 1976 El Presidente Rudy Castillo

A HORSE WITH AN EMPTY SADDLE will ride in this year’s Old Spanish Days Parade in remembrance of Rudy Castillo, 1976 Fiesta El Presidente, who died this week. His death was announced by the Old Spanish Days Board of Directors.

“I got to know Rudy pretty well over the past year,” said Fritz Olenberger, 2025 Old Spanish Days El Presidente, “I visited him in the hospital and we spoke at length about the upcoming Fiesta. He was quite alert and charming throughout it all. We will miss him dearly.”

While serving as the organization’s presiding officer in 1976, Mr. Castillo began the tradition of the El Presidente designing the Fiesta poster, which he did with great enthusiasm as Santa Barbara celebrated that year in conjunction with Santa Barbara County’s bicentennial celebration.

Over the years, Past Presidente Castillo remained active in Fiesta, continuing to serve on the board of directors. He was named Parade Grand Marshall during this past year’s 100th Anniversary Fiesta.

Services for Mr. Castillo will be announced by the family, according to OSD.

Exchange Student Program Between SB and Toba, Japan, is Open for Applicants

SANTA BARBARA HAS A SISTER CITY IN TOBA, JAPAN, and as summer is coming, the invitation has once again been offered to Santa Barbara students to join the exchange program in late July and August. The cost per student is approximately $2500.

Partial scholarships are available.

Santa Barbara Toba Sister City Organization has extended an invitation to four eighth or ninth grade students, ages 13 to 15, to participate in this summer’s program. Four Japanese students from Toba will visit the homes of four Santa Barbara students for approximately eight days during Fiesta. The following week the four Santa Barbara host-students will fly to Japan and share eight more days in the Japanese students’ homes. Both groups will be accompanied by a chaperone. The entire experience covers about three weeks.

Toba is a small city of about 20,000 residents. It is famous for its female pearl divers, the Ama, the Toba Aquarium, which is one of the largest in Japan, and the Toba Castle Ruins, among others. Toba faces several islands, which offer dolphin shows and the opportunity to explore nature and local customs.

Anybody interested should reach out to Sally Hamilton, who can be emailed at sallyshamilton@gmail.com

The application deadline is February 28, 2025.

Phil Korte

Eryn Shugart

Greg Kniss

Photo by Fritz Olengerger

2024 Parade Grand Marshall & 1976 El Presidente Rudy Castillo

2024 Exchange students at City Hall

On the Street with John Palminteri

New Senior Center Breaks Ground

After seven years of fundraising citywide, a $5-million Solvang Senior Center is becoming a reality. It will replace a worn out modular building behind the library on Mission Drive.

First Responders

CARPINTERIA-SUMMERLAND FIRE STATIONS became a collection point for donations for children and pets from the Los Angeles area fires. These locations will also be a drop-off for blankets, cots, and air mattresses. The Santa Barbara South Coast Firefighter Foundation will be delivering truckloads to relief sites. They will also help with unfunded needs for firefighters, including snacks and hydrating drinks.

A MONTECITO SHOOTING Wednesday morning left one man wounded and another detained. Santa Barbara Sheriff deputies sent multiple units to the scene along with AMR. The motive is unknown.

John Palminteri is a veteran news reporter and anchor for Newschannel 3-12 TV and both KJEE and KCLU radio in Santa Barbara/Santa Maria/Ventura. Off the air, he’s often bringing his smile and positive energy to the microphone at fundraisers and civic events. John’s social media presence has one of the largest followings in Santa Barbara, and this page has the weekly highlights.

Twitter: @JohnPalminteri • Instagram: @JohnPalminteriNews • www.facebook.com/john.palminteri.5

Santa Barbara Legend, Rest In Peace

SANTA BARBARA LOST ERIN GRAFFY

THIS WEEK. She was a joyful author, historian, friend, host, social beauty, lover of Fiesta, and all good things in Santa Barbara. She talked with an on going laugh that you just never wanted to leave. My support and prayers to her family and community of friends. One moment in time — She said to me back in my early radio days with single digit hourly pay, “let’s do lunch, you bring the coupon!”

Gauchos Pop-up Downtown

THE UC SANTA BARBARA PEP BAND put on a pop-up performance on State Street in downtown for the Grand Opening of the new first-ever off-campus Gaucho Shop on Sunday. It is located in the Paseo Nuevo Mall in Santa Barbara. It is stocked with UCSB merchandise including shirts, jerseys and hats. It will also be used for meet and greets with Gaucho studentathletes. The Gaucho Pop-Up Shop will be the exclusive seller and location for all Gaucho merchandise. It will be open Tuesdays (Farmers Market day), Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12pm to 6pm.

A DAY OF MUSIC, INCLUDING THE CAVERNS, at Fox Wine in the Funk Zone of Santa Barbara raised money for fire relief efforts in Los Angeles on Sunday. It was a chilly evening, but a warm gathering for sure. The event raised money for LA Fire department, Musicares.org, and National Day Laborer Organizing Network.

One Year for Mr. Softee

FOR ITS ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY Mr. Softee in Santa Barbara had $1.20 cones all day Monday. This is a chocolate - vanilla swirl with a festive topping, and you can get this or a variation of it as part of the celebration!

Photos and Stories by John Palminteri Special to VOICE

LA Fire Relief

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! presents La Santa Cecilia

LA SANTA CECILIA, a band that bridges rock, Latin roots, and world music will kick off the year for ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! in three free performances: Friday, January 24th at Isla Vista School, in Goleta; Saturday, January 25th at Guadalupe City Hall in Guadalupe, and on Sunday, January 26th, at the Marjorie Luke Theatre in Santa Barbara.

Stop in for a taste of cumbia, bossa-nova, rumba, bolero, tango, jazz, klezmer, and more!

https://artsandlectures.ucsb.edu/learn/viva-el-arte-de-santa-barbara/

Friday 1/24

CHILDREN

Little Dancers • Join the Library on the Go van and the Santa Barbara Dance Institute for a joyful, bilingual early childhood creative dance program at Oak Park! 600 W Alamar Ave • 10:30-11am Fri, 1/24.

Food Science Friday • Explore science through food! Make salt & watercolor paintings, structure building with marshmallows, and matching common garden plants to their scent • ages 8-13. • Central Library | Children's Area • 3-4:30pm Fri, 1/24.

COMEDY

Friday Night Laughs • Pro comedians from LA • Java Station • $20 • santabarbaracomedyclub.com • 7pm, Fri.

Paula Poundstone • Comedian and NPR’s Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me panelist comes to Santa Barbara • Lobero Theatre • $68 • lobero.org • 7:30pm, Fri, 1/24.

DANCE

Wildcat Lounge Dance Variety Show • It’s the 19th Anniversary, presented by Beth Amine, with aerial, pole, belly dance, ballroom, & more • Wildcat Lounge • $20 • wildcatlounge.com • 7pm, Fr, 1/24.

Queen Nation • Re-imagined symphonic rock show w/ Queen tribute band • Chumash Casino Resort • $20-$40 • chumashcasino.com • 8pm, Fri, 1/24.

La Santa Cecilia • Grammywinning band from LA w/ fusion of Latin, rock, and world music • free • vivaelarte.org • The Isla Vista School, 7pm, Fri, 1/24; Guadalupe City Hall, 7pm, Sat, 1/25; the Marjorie Luke Theatre, 6pm, Sun, 1/26.

Fishbone with Bite Me Bambi • Ska, punk, funk, rock, and soul • SOhO • $35 • sohosb.com • 9pm, Fri, 1/24.

Saturday 1/25

CHILDREN

Explore Together • Fun, interactive learning activities for the whole family! • perfect for preschoolers through early elementary-aged children • Central Library | Children's Area • 10:3011:30am Sat, 1/25.

COMEDY

LECTURES/WORKSHOPS

Mixed In America Workshop

• With Mixed Identity Specialists Meagan Smith & Jazmine Jarvis • MCC Theater and Lounge, UCSB • Free • mcc.sa.ucsb.edu • 2pm, Fri, 1/24.

Community Development Workshop • Share your input on local housing and community development • David Gebhard Meeting #9 • free • santabarbaraca.gov • 6:30pm, Fri, 1/24.

Upward Mobility Summit

• Speakers, panel discussions, strategies to increase economic opportunity & equity• Allan Hancock College, Santa Maria Campus, Boyd Hall; SB City College, West Campus — Business Center/Fe Bland Forum • free • communifysb.org/upward-mobility-summit • 9am- 4pm, Fri, 1/24.

MUSIC

Open Mic & Gallery Night • Take to the stage and share your voice at the Library's open mic night, themed "Metamorfosis" • Central Library Faulkner Gallery • 43 E Anapamu St • free • 6-7:30pm Fri. 1/24

Pianist Alexander Malofeev

• performs a program of Schubert, Janacek, Liszt • Presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures at Hahn Hall • $48 • artsandlectures.ucsb.edu • 7pm, Fri, 1/24.

The Westmont Women’s Leadership Council Luncheon

Change of Venue: Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

The leadership of women will shine on Friday, January 24th 12-1:30pm, as The Westmont Women’s Leadership Council Luncheon hosts keynote speaker Henrietta Holsman Fore, a recognized leader in business, corporate boards, the U.S. government, the United Nations, and nonprofit organizations, and honors Anne Towbes, local philanthropist and community leader, with the 2025 Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree Spirit of Santa Barbara Award.

“Our speaker, Henrietta Fore, has led a distinguished and fascinating career that I believe will inspire our local community leaders, professionals, alums, and students alike,” noted Sarah Camp, assistant vice president for advancement. “We’re thrilled that this event, which raises scholarship funds for Westmont’s female students, also celebrates the example set by Anne Towbes, an icon of Santa Barbara philanthropy. These two women exemplify the difference women leaders make in society.”

Trae Crowder • The Liberal Redneck takes his porch rants on the road • Lobero Theatre • $31-$51 • lobero.org • 7:30pm, Sat, 1/25.

DANCE

A Ballet Weekend with Jonette Swider • An inspiring weekend workshop with the master teacher • The Dance Hub • dancehubsb.org • $70-$125 • 11am, Sat-Sun, 1/25–1/26.

Zermeño Dance Academy Winter Showcase • The talented troupe of young dancers will show their moves • Center Stage Theater • centerstagetheater.org • $26 • 1pm, Sat 1/25

LECTURES/WORKSHOPS

Fran Lebowitz • one of America’s great raconteurs • UCSB Arts & Lectures, • Campbell Hall • $37.50$67.50 / $15 UCSB Students • artsandlectures.ucsb.edu • 7:30pm, Sat, 1/25.

MTD Public Outreach • Open house style public meeting on proposed fare structure change • Central Library, Faulkner Gallery • free • santabarbaraca.gov • 2pm, Sat, 1/25.

MUSIC

Kids Helping Kids Benefit

Concert • With Andy Grammer headlining • Arlington Theatre • $49$295 • arlingtontheatresb.com • 7pm, Sat, 1/25.

Due to overwhelming interest, the event will now take place at Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort.

westmont.edu/leadership-luncheon

The Rhythm Industrial Complex

• World music dance band live • Wylde Works • free • wyldeworks.com

• 8pm, Sat, 1/25.

Cool Water Canyon • Rock 'n' roll w/ jazz, funk, rhythm & blues

• SOhO • $15 • sohosb.com • 9pm, Sat, 1/25.

Doublewide Kings and Friends

• The Kings bring their classic rock rhythms to celebrate the music of Neil Young• $30-$95 • Marjorie Luke Theatre • luketheatre.org• 7:30pm, Sat, 1/25.

OUTDOORS

Winter Bird Count for Kids

• With S.B. Audubon Society, the fun of bird watching for kids • Stow House Parking Lot • free •

santabarbaraaudubon.org • 9am–12pm, Sat, 1/25.

The Habitat Hedge • How to use Californian native shrubs to create a habitat hedge, with Alejandro Lemus Horticultural Educator • SB Botanic Garden • $15 members/students, $30 general public • sbbotanicgarden.org • 10am, Sat, 1/25.

TEENS

Relax & Craft • Calling all teens! Learn to crochet, relax, and color, or explore classic crafts like friendship bracelets and keychain making. Supplies provided. • Central Library | Upper Level • 40 E Anapamu St 3-4:30pm Sat, 1/25.

Gabriela Radu, CMT

Therapeutic Massage

Specializing in injuries, Sports massage, Swedish, Lymphatic, Somatic massage & Life Coaching v.gabriela@yahoo.com 805-453-1139 www.comefromyourheart.com

Courtesy photos

Courtesy of Allpartsmove

THEATRE

Lit Moon created its Lear during the summer of 2024, in the village of Capari in North Macedonia. It was created specifically for the Ohrid Summer Festival, and premiered at the Church of Saint Sophia, a 9th century Orthodox Church, in late July. The show was created by an international company of artists from North Macedonia, Armenia, England, Finland, and the US – what we now call Lit Moon World.

The play interweaves the stories of two families. In one, Lear divides his kingdom between two daughters who flatter him and exiles his youngest who loves him. In another, the Duke of Gloucester trusts a treacherous son, and suspects a loyal one. The stories merge into one by the play’s end, after much heartache. The play ends with some of the most moving scenes in Shakespeare, when loyal children find their battered and beleaguered fathers.

Lit Moon World Theater Festival

Lit Moon World Theater Festival 2025, directed by John Blondell, will open their curtains on four plays - all staged at the Community Arts Workshop in Santa Barbara (631 Garden Street). The plays include King Lear, by William Shakespeare, presented by Santa Barbara's Lit Moon World; A Real Elephant, by Alexander Kuprin, presented by Microscope Toy Theatre, Long Beach, Yulya Dukhovny, Performer and Director; Prospero’s Black Box, presented by Proboscis Theatre Company, Chicago, Jeff Mills, Performer, James Donlon, Director; and Uncle Vanya, by Anton Chekhov, presented by Santa Barbara's Lit Moon World, John Blondell, Director. All performances at the Santa Barbara Community Arts Workshop.

For tickets ($20-$30) visit litmoontheatre.com

Newsies Jr. • Family-friendly production based on the true story of the 1899 New York City newsboys’ strike • OYES Theater • $15 • oyespresents.org • Thru 2/9.

The Comedy of Errors • Shakespeare’s classic comedy about twins separated at birth • Rubicon • $20-$70 • rubicontheatre.org • 2pm, Tue, 1/28.

Agnes of God • Revisit the strange case of Sister Agnes, who has given birth in a convent, and the mysterious death of her newborn •

Sunday 1/26

MUSIC

MANIA: The ABBA Tribute • With stunning costumes, energetic choreography, and impeccable musicianship • Lobero Theatre • $45$75 • lobero.org • 6pm, Sun, 1/26.

Dr. Wu–The Music of Steely

Dan • SOhO • $28 • sohosb.com • 7:30pm, Sun, 1/26

SPECIAL EVENTS

Author Mary Tonetti Dorra • Reading & Signing of her new book, I Am a Portrait: Flash Fiction and Other Short Stories • Chaucer's Books • Free • chaucersbooks.com • 3pm, Sun, 1/26.

Snow Leopard Festival • Fun in the snow for kids and animals • SB Zoo Free with paid admission. $8-10 to sled • sbzoo.org • 10-3pm Sun, 1/26.

SB Community Seed Swap • Meet local gardeners & exchange seeds & cuttings. Music, kids activities, fun! Local Food Hero Award • Free • 631 Garden •sbpermaculture.org • 114pm Sun, 1/26.

Monday 1/27

PFLAG January Support Meeting •"Shifting Landscapes: How are Faith Communities Leading with Love?" • Hear from a panel of local faith leaders with time for sharing and support • Pre-register by emailing pflagsantabarbara@gmail.com• 7pm Mon, 1/ 27.

Tuesday 1/28

COMEDY

Carpinteria Improv Drop-In

Class • Learn improv with friends • Alcazar Theater • $10 at door • thealcazar.org • 7-9pm Tue.

LECTURES/WORKSHOPS

Snow Leopard Fest to Bring Snow and Fun to the Zoo

A wild winter wonderland, with 80 tons of snow, will launch the annual Snow Leopard Festival at the Santa Barbara Zoo on Sunday, January 26th.

Kids can enjoy sledding, snowballs, and more, while the Zoo’s animals, including snow leopard Kisa, will get to play in the snow in their habitats as enrichment. The Snow Leopard Festival is dedicated to raising awareness about this endangered species and the challenges they face in the wild.

The event is free with regular paid admission or Zoo membership, with an additional fee for sledding ($10/pass, $8/pass for Zoo Members). The snow play area is open to children 12 and under and their parents/guardians, and sledding is for children ages 2 to 12 only. Sleds will be provided, so guests can leave their sleds at home.

The event will take place from 10am to 3pm, with 9am early admission for Zoo members. Reservations are required for all Zoo tickets and Zoo members.

To make a reservation or for info, visit sbzoo.org or call 805-962-5339

Wednesday 1/29

LECTURES/WORKSHOPS

Ojai Art Center Theater • $10-$20 • ojaiact.org • 7:30pm, Fri-Sat, 2pm Sun, 1/24–2/16.

Lit Moon World Theater Festival 2025 • Featuring King Lear, A Real Elephant, Prospero’s Black Box, and Uncle Vanya • $15$30/per show • Community Arts Workshop • sbcaw.org/upcoming • 1/22-25/25.

How I Learned What I Learned • August Wilson's autobiographical play• Rubicon Theatre• $20-$50 • rubicontheatre.org• 3pm, Mon, 1/27.

Elixir Piano Trio • Presented by Chamber On The Mountain

• Logan House, Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts • $40 • ChamberOnTheMountain.com • 3pm, Sun, 1/26.

Sandy Cummings & Jazz du Jour • Afternoon jazz • SOhO • $10 • sohosb.com • 12:30pm, Sun, 1/26.

Montecito Book Club • This month: The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune. Great reads & conversations! • register at: https://tinyurl.com/3x9vw6nf • Montecito Library • 1469 E Valley Rd • 2-3pm Tue, 1/28.

CEC’s Next Climate Stewards Course • Gain access to climate action resources and opportunities • $350 • cecsb.org • Begins 1/28.

MUSIC

Thee Sacred Souls • The SoCal retro-soul group comes to SB on their Live For You tour • Arlington Theatre • $108-$275• arlingtontheatresb.com • 8pm, Tues, 1/28.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Ice in Paradise Blood Drive • Appointments required • free skating pass for donors • Ice in Paradise parking lot by Rinkside Cafe • free • iceinparadise.org • 1-5pm, Tue, 1/28.

Le Cercle Français • French conversation, all levels • The Natural Cafe, 361 Hitchcock Way • https://tinyurl.com/5ejbd9ye • Free • 5-6:30pm Wed.

Crafternoon: Sustainable Stagecraft • Hands-on workshops using upcycled materials • EE Makerspace • $8 • exploreecology.org • 2:30pm, Wed.

Silents on the Islands• Local historian Betsy J. Green highlights the silent films shot on California's Channel Islands • Santa Barbara

• $15, $10 for members, free for students • sbhistorical.org• 5:30pm, Wed. 1/29.

Tommy Orange • Native novelist and Pulitzer finalist Tommy Orange explores contemporary Indigeneity in his bestsellers There There and Wandering Stars. • Campbell Hall• $20, free/UCSB students • artsandlectures.ucsb.edu• 7:30pm Wed. 1/29.

Healing Ukraine - Botanic Gardens in a Time of War, a Model of International Collaboration • Lotusland • Presented by Tony Allison & Andriy Prokopiv • Free webinar, RSVP: www.lotusland.org • 5:30-6:30pm Wed,1/29.

Courtesy of Lit Moon World Theater Festival

Courtesy photos

Santa Barbara Ghost Tours Walk with Professor Julie as she shares tales of mystery and history... & meet friendly spirits

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

MUSIC

Lucinda Lane CD Release • Lost

Thursday 1/30

COMEDY

Marc Maron • The comedian and podcaster brings his trademark wit• Lobero Theatre • $55.50-$121 • lobero.org • 7:30pm, Th. 1/30.

LECTURES/WORKSHOPS

Subject or Object: Key Passageways Between Things and Humans • Key Passages talk w/ Professor Claudio Benezecry, on when humans become subjects or objects• 6020 HSSB, UCSB • https://tinyurl.com/5ejbd9ye • Free •4pm, Th 1/30

Sip & Dip: Chocolate, Churros and Chess • Weekly specialty Hot Chocolate with games like chess, cards and Uno • Menchaca Chocolates • free • menchacachocolates.com •

Pico Ayer Q &A and Book Signing

• A brief conversation and signing with Aflame author, Pico Ayer, free copies available while supplies last• SB Wine Collective • free • artsandlectures.ucsb. edu• 6pm Thu, 1/30.

Chord Guitars at 1576 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang • 7-10pm Thur, 1/30.

Friday 1/31

MUSIC

Danish String Quartet • An evening of music spanning three centuries, from Mozart and 17th century Ireland to Stravinsky, Shostakovich, and contemporary arrangements of Nordic folk tunes Campbell Hall • $27.50$67.50/$15 UCSB Student (w/ Current ID) • artsandlectures.ucsb.edu • 7pm Fri, 1/31.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Chinatown Remembered: A Celebration of Santa Barbara's Chinatown • Celebration of Santa Barbara’s rich cultural heritage at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park (123 E. Canon Perdido Street) • Free • 6:30-10pm Fri & Sat, 1/31 & 2/1.

Saturday 2/1

LECTURES/WORKSHOPS

LCCCA Writers Symposium • Kristena Prater, Sarah Burdette, and Cynthia Waring will discuss their recent work • Fine Line Gallery in La Cumbre Plaza • Free • 4pm Sat, 2/1.

MUSIC

Rickie Lee Jones • Musician, storyteller, and two-time GRAMMY winner • Lobero Theatre • $45-$107 • lobero.org • 7:30-9:30pm Sat, 2/1.

SB Chamber Players Winter Concert • A program of operatic highlights, featuring conductor Emmanuel Frantianni and guest soprano Amara Amante • First Methodist Church• $20 general/ free for students 18 & under• sbchamberplayers.org • 10am Sat, 2/1.

Sunday 2/2

MUSIC

Folk Orchestra of SB Winter Concert • The 30-piece orchestra of local musicians celebrates the season

Rickie Lee Jones at the Lobero Theatre

American musician, storyteller, and two-time GRAMMY® winner Rickie Lee Jones, who has been inspiring pop culture for decades – beginning with her star-making self-titled debut, then followed by the seminal Pirates – will play the Lobero Theatre's intimate stage on Saturday, February 1st at 7:30. Named the “premiere song-stylist and songwriter of her generation” by The New Yorker, and “The Duchess of Coolsville” by Time magazine, Jones released her GRAMMY® nominated album Pieces of Treasure in 2023 – a reunion with Russ Titelman, who produced her first two records. For tickets ($45-$107) visit lobero.org

• Trinity Episcopal Church • $35 • folkorchestraesb.com • 2-4pm Sun, 2/2.

Imani Winds and Boston Brass

• Two powerhouse ensembles join forces for a rollicking night of music • $52.50, $10/current UCSB students • artsandlectures.ucsb.edu• 4pm Sun, 2/2.

To have your events included in VOICE Magazine's calendar or arts listings, please email information to Calendar@ VoiceSB.com by noon the Tuesday before publication.

This year’s Local Food Hero award honors Mesa Harmony Garden, a Community Food Forest founded in 2010. Founding members include Hugh Kelly, Alice San Andres Calleja, Josh Kane, & Larry Saltzman, with hundreds of volunteers contribuJng Jme and energy since its founding. Beginning on an unused plot of land, the garden became a pracJcal demonstraJon site of permaculture & organic principles applied to urban food producJon, and now produces 2000 lbs. of fresh produce annually to share with the local Food Bank. Volunteers work together in the garden and orchard every Saturday, and hold educaJonal workshops, classes and a bi-annual plant sale Santa Barbara Permaculture Network & Santa Barbara Annual Community Seed Swap

Lobero LIVE presents

Photo by

Vivian Wang

CINEMA

Wild Life

Free documentary screening of Wild Life on Tuesday, January 28th at 7pm at UCSB Campbell Hall. (Registration recommended).

Follow conservationist Kristine McDivitt Tompkins on an epic love story as she and entrepreneur Doug Tompkins leave behind the successful outdoor brands they helped pioneer (Patagonia, The North Face, Esprit) and turn their attention to a visionary effort to affect the largest private land donation in history. (Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, 2014, 115 min.) Presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures.

Cinema Events:

The Sandlot •A screening of the classic coming-of-age comedy, hosted by Carpinteria Valley Little League• Alcazar Theatre • $7, free for registered little league players for the 2025 season• carpll.com • 1:30pm, Sun, 1/26.

Wild Life • Documentary following conservationist Kristine McDivitt Tompkins as she and entrepreneur Doug Tompkins leave behind the successful outdoor brands they helped pioneer and turn their attention to affect the largest private land donation in history • UCSB Campbell Hall • Free Register at: https://artsandlectures.ucsb.edu/buy/?performanceId=5357 • 7pm Tu, 1/28.

Courtesy photo

Retail Sales Boost Q4 Growth

By Harlan Green / Special to VOICE

“Advance estimates of U.S. retail and food services sales for December 2024, adjusted for seasonal variation and holiday and trading-day differences, but not for price changes, were $729.2 billion, an increase of 0.4 percent (±0.5 percent)* from the previous month, and up 3.9 percent (±0.5 percent) from December 2023,” according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

RETAIL SALES MAKE UP ONE-THIRD OF SPENDING, and during good times such as during recovery from the last two recessions, soared above eight percent annually. But the current 3.9 percent annual spending rise is not adjusted for inflation, so it is mostly due to inflation that is stuck in the two to three percent range.

But stocks and some bonds are rallying as consumers keep spending because they are fully employed and continue to have savings left over from the government’s post-pandemic aid programs.

in the fourth quarter as seen in their graph. This will be the third consecutive quarter of three percent GDP growth.

And if consumers continue to shop as they have been, inflation won’t get any better in 2025. In fact, if Trump follows through on his tariff promises, inflation may get worse and maybe even cause the U.S. Fed to raise interest rates again. It’s going to be an interesting battle between the Trump administration wanting to push rates lower and the Fed wanting to push inflation lower. They aren’t compatible, needless to say.

We should probably call this another era of irrational exuberance, as former Fed Chair Alan Greenspan foresaw in 1996 preceding the 2000 Dot-com bubble burst. It really means investors tend to follow the herd, because most of their information isn’t based on research, but “hearsay and word-of-mouth”, in the words of Nobel Laureate Robert Shiller.

By Harlan Green

Irrational exuberance can be a terrible thing and has been studied by more than one Nobel Laureate. We are still recovering from the Great Recession and consequent housing shortage from it.

It’s also the reason Federal Reserve Banks, such as the Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow estimate, are predicting three percent GDP growth again

So the moral should be: “Don’t believe in all the misinformation you hear,” and will be hearing this year!

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All advertising in this publication is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This publication will not knowingly accept any advertising which is in violation of this law.

Harlan Green © 2025 Follow Harlan Green on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HarlanGreen Harlan Green has been the 18-year Editor-Publisher of PopularEconomics.com, a weekly syndicated financial wire service. He writes a Popular Economics Weekly Blog. He is an economic forecaster and teacher of real estate finance with 30-years experience as a banker and mortgage broker. To reach Harlan call (805)452-7696 or email editor@populareconomics.com.

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

Insertion Date: Print:1.24.25/ Digital included 1.22.25. 6.5” times 2 columns = $62.14 • 12.18.24 Public notice for 2/04/25. Submitted by Austin Taylor, City Admin.

PUBLIC NOTICE

City of Santa Barbara

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Santa Barbara will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, which begins at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, 735 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara. The hearing is to consider a recommendation that Council to adopt the Title 25 Objective Design and Development Standards with recommended changes; Repeal Resolution No. 21-031 adopting the Objective Design and Development Standards for Streamlined Housing Projects in its entirety; Adopt Amendments to the Title 30 Zoning Ordinance with corrections; and determine that the Title 25 and Title 30 Amendments are consistent with the General Plan and exempt from CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15305.

Public comment may be given in person at the meeting or remotely via zoom. Members of the public who wish to give public comment remotely may do so by following the Zoom registration instructions on the posted Agenda. Written comments are also welcome up to the time of the hearing and should be addressed to the City Council via the City Clerk’s Office by sending them electronically to Clerk@ SantaBarbaraCA.gov. Written comments may also be submitted to the City Council via the City Clerk’s Office, P.O. Box 1990, Santa Barbara, CA 931021990.

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, an Agenda with all items to be heard on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 will be available at City Hall, 735 Anacapa Street, and at the Central Library. Agendas and Staff Reports are also accessible online at www.SantaBarbaraCA.gov/ CAP. The Agenda will include instructions for participation in the meeting.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need auxiliary aids or services or staff assistance to attend or participate in this meeting, please contact the City Administrator’s Office at (805) 564-5305. If possible, notification at least 48 hours prior to the meeting will usually enable the City to make reasonable arrangements. Specialized services, such as sign language interpretation or documents in Braille, may require additional lead time to arrange.

(SEAL)

/s/ Sarah Gorman, MMC City Clerk Services Manager January 24, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER : 25CV00031

Petitioner: Abraham Mora Jarero and Dannury Ordonez Jarero filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Khanney Dannury Mora Ordonez to PROPOSED NAME: Khanney Dannury Jarero. 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: 03/10/2025; 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: 01/14/2025 /s/: Colleen K. Sterne, Judge of the Superior Court. Legal #25CV00031 Pub Dates: January 24, 31, February 7, 14, 2025.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT: The following Corporation is doing business as ORKIN CENTRAL COAST at 2369 A Street, Santa Maria, CA 93455. A.E.T. SERVICES, INC at 2369 A Street, Santa Maria, CA 93455. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on January 3, 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. 2025-0000027. Published January 10, 17, 24, 31, 2025.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT: The following Unincorporated Assoc. Other Than a Partnership is doing business as SANTA BARBARA AERIE NO. 442 FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES at 923 Bath Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. HECTOR PALOMINO; DANIEL RODRIGUEZ at 923 Bath Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara on December 5, 2024. 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. 2024-0002854. Published January 10, 17, 24, 31, 2025.

VOICE Magazine • Community Market • LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLICATIONS ON APPLICATIONS REGARDING PROVISIONS OF TITLE 28 AND/OR 30 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF SANTA BARBARA (SBMC)

The Secretary of the Staff Hearing Officer has set a public hearing for Wednesday, February 5, 2025 beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the David Gebhard Public Meeting Room, 630 Garden Street.

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, an Agenda with all items to be heard on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 will be available online at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/SHO. Agendas, Minutes, and Staff Reports are also accessible online at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/SHO.

TELEVISION COVERAGE: This meeting will be broadcast live on City TV-Channel 18 and online at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/CityTV. See SantaBarbaraCA.gov/CityTVProgramGuide for a rebroadcast schedule. An archived video of this meeting will be available at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/SHOVideos.

WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENT: Public comments may be submitted via email to SHOSecretary@SantaBarbaraCA.gov before the beginning of the Meeting. All public comments submitted via email will be provided to the SHO and will become part of the public record. You may also submit written correspondence via US Postal Service (USPS); addressed to SHO Secretary, PO Box 1990, Santa Barbara, CA 93102-1990. However, please be advised, correspondence sent via USPS may not be received in time to process prior to the meeting and email submissions are highly encouraged. Please note that the SHO may not have time to review written comments received after 4:30 p.m. the Tuesday before the meeting.

All public comment that is received before 4:30 p.m. the Tuesday before the meeting will be published on the City’s website at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/SHO Comments provided via USPS or e-mail will be converted to a PDF before being posted on the City’s website. Note: comments will be published online the way they are received and without redaction of personal identifying information; including but not limited to phone number, home address, and email address. Only submit information that you wish to make available publicly.

APPEALS: Decisions of the SHO may be appealed to the Planning Commission. Appeals may be filed in person at the Community Development Department at 630 Garden Street or in writing via email to SHOSecretary@SantaBarbaraCA.gov. For further information and guidelines on how to appeal a decision to the Planning Commission, please contact Planning staff at (805) 564-5578 as soon as possible. Appeals and associated fee must be submitted in writing, via email to PlanningCounter@SantaBarbaraCA.gov and by first class mail postage prepaid within 10 calendar days of the meeting that the SHO took action or rendered a decision.  Appeals and associated fee post marked after the 10th calendar day will not be accepted.

NOTE TO INTERESTED PARTIES: Only those persons who participate through public comment either orally or in writing on an item on this Agenda have standing to appeal the decision. Grounds for appeal are limited to those issues raised either orally or in written correspondence delivered to the review body at, or prior to, the public hearing.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT:  If you need services or staff assistance to attend or participate in this meeting, please contact the SHO Secretary at (805) 564-5470, extension 4572. If possible, notification at least 48 hours prior to the meeting will usually enable the City to make reasonable arrangements. Specialized services, such as sign language interpretation or documents in Braille, may require additional lead time to arrange.

• 340 E Los Olivos St

Assessor’s Parcel Number: 025-261-004

Zoning Designation: RS-15 (Residential Single Unit)

Application Number: PLN2024-00241

Applicant / Owner: Brooke VanDuyne, Sherry & Associates Architects/ James Charles Lee

Project Description: Front Setback Modifications for the as-built addition to ADU and the new pool.

• 35 Las Alturas Rd

Assessor’s Parcel Number: 019-331-017

Zoning Designation: RS-15 (Residential Single Unit)

Application Number: PLN2023-00251

Applicant / Owner: Ken Dickson, Windward Design Services LLC / Ray Mahboob

Project Description: Setback Modifications for additions to a single unit residence.

• 616 Sea Ranch

Assessor’s Parcel Number: 047-104-002

Zoning Designation: A-1/S-D-3 (One-Family Residence/Coastal Overlay)

Application Number: PLN2023-00448 Filing Date: December 12, 2023

Applicant / Owner: William Wolf, Pacific Arc Inc Architects / Fields Patricia L

Project Description: Coastal Development Permit for a new two-story single-unit residence and attached garage.

• 42 Vista Del Mar

Assessor’s Parcel Number: 047-061-018

Zoning Designation: E-3/S-D-3 (One-Family Residence/Coastal Overlay)

Application Number: PLN2024-00200; Filing Date: June 18. 2024

Applicant / Owner: Vic Padilla, VP Design Group / Burke, Michael

Project Description: Coastal Development Permit for a new detached Accessory Dwelling Unit.

Where to 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

Insertion Date: Print:1.24.25/ Digital included 1.22.25. 6.36” times 2 columns = $60.80 • 1.24.25 Public notice for 2/04/25. Submitted by Austin Taylor, City Admin.

PUBLIC NOTICE

City of Santa Barbara

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Santa Barbara will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, during the afternoon session of the meeting which begins at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, 735 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara. The hearing is to consider a recommendation to City Council that Council adopt, by reading of title only, a Resolution of the Council of the City of Santa Barbara Initiating a Local Coastal Program (LCP) Amendment for Development Regulations Along Creeks.

Public comment may be given in person at the meeting or remotely via zoom. Members of the public who wish to give public comment remotely may do so by completing the Zoom registration at the following link: https://santabarbaraca-gov.zoom.us/webinar/ register/WN_-tbNSuHPTmquCwDEP9hNaQ. Written comments are also welcome up to the time of the hearing and should be addressed to the City Council via the City Clerk’s Office by sending them electronically to Clerk@SantaBarbaraCA.gov. Written comments may also be submitted to the City Council via the City Clerk’s Office, P.O. Box 1990, Santa Barbara, CA 931021990.

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, an Agenda with all items to be heard on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, will be available at City Hall, 735 Anacapa Street, and at the Central Library. Agendas and Staff Reports are also accessible online at www.SantaBarbaraCA.gov/ CAP. The Agenda will include instructions for participation in the meeting. If you wish to participate in the public hearing, please follow the instructions on the posted Agenda.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need auxiliary aids or services or staff assistance to attend or participate in this meeting, please contact the City Administrator’s Office at (805) 564-5305. If possible, notification at least 48 hours prior to the meeting will usually enable the City to make reasonable arrangements. Specialized services, such as sign language interpretation or documents in Braille, may require additional lead time to arrange.

(SEAL)

/s/ Sarah Gorman, MMC City Clerk Services Manager January 16, 2025

Old Spanish Days Announces 2025 Fiesta Leadership Team

OVERSEEING ONE OF SANTA BARBARA’S LARGEST AND OLDEST CELEBRATIONS,

this year’s Old Spanish Days Leadership Team was announced by the OSD Board of Directors, last week.

Fritz Olenberger, 2025 El Presidente will be joined by Primer Vice Presidente Colin Hayward, Segundo Vice Presidente Tony Miller, la Secretaria and Division Chief of Pageantry Casie Killgore, la Tesorera Denise Sanford, and four Division Chiefs: Christopher Gusman (Celebrations), Melissa Robledo Pulido (Dance and Entertainment, David Bolton (External Relations and History), and Sean Malis (Marketplaces/Mercados).

Pageantry which oversees the Friday Fiesta parade, El Desfile Histórico. “Each year a dedicated group of people work hard to keep the spirit, fun, and equestrian focus for Fiesta’s historic parade,” said Killgore. “It is a beautiful parade that unites our community and provides a wonderful opportunity for our equestrian community and for the public to view the spectacle along the parade route.”

90 Great Reasons To Meet a 90-Year-Old

By Mark Whitehurst / VOICE

ACREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHER AND PROFESSOR

, Joyce Wilson, 90, opened a retrospective exhibition of her work titled Opus 90 at Voice Gallery, on 1st Thursday, coinciding with her 90th birthday.

A native of Indiana, she began her professional career in the early 1960’s as a portrait photographer. Her husband Jim

“With a dynamic and experienced leadership team, we are enthusiastic as we prepare for Fiesta 2025,” said 2025 El Presidente Fritz Olenberger. “Fiesta unites our community with public events for all ages, showcases performing artists on beloved stages, and provides critical fundraising opportunities for local charities and service organizations.”

Each year, Old Spanish Days’ two vice presidents – el Primer and el Segundo –coordinate Fiesta’s operations and fundraising respectively.

“Old Spanish Days is working diligently with our strategic partners to make Fiesta 2025 the best celebration ever,” said El Primer Vice Presidente Colin Hayward. “We look forward to an effective and progressive collaboration with the City of Santa Barbara, as well as the many businesses and non-profit organizations that, year-after-year, help ensure a successful festival.”

Sponsors are the cornerstone of Old Spanish Days assuring that countless Fiesta events can be staged free to the public.

“Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors, Old Spanish Days in Santa Barbara continues to provide the community these vibrant and accessible events that celebrate our rich traditions and culture,” said Tony Miller, 2025 El Segundo Vice Presidente.

With an annual budget exceeding $1 million, the OSD treasurer or el Tesorero, oversees all financial aspects of the annual Fiesta.“Thousands of tourists come to Santa Barbara for Fiesta each year providing substantial economic benefit to our community,” said 2025 La Tesorera Denise Sanford (La Presidenta 2018). “Hotels, restaurants, shops, non-profit organizations, and so many others benefit from the influx of revenue generated through Fiesta and all the related activities.”

This year’s OSD la Secretaria Casie Killgore is also doubling as Division Chief of

Fiesta’s annual Celebrations, including La Primavera, Fiesta Ranchero, Dignitarios and La Recepción del Presidente, bring our community together to celebrate and enjoy festivities much like those held during the Rancho Period, a time in Santa Barbara and state history for which Old Spanish Days is based.

“Our events unite families, neighbors, and community in a shared celebration of culture and connection,” said Division Chief of Celebrations Christopher Gusman. “Old Spanish Days continues to celebrate the rich history and cherished traditions of Fiesta in the most meaningful way.”

Dance is an important part of any Fiesta, and each year a Spirit of Fiesta and a Junior Spirit are selected to lead all the Old Spanish Days activities. “During the week of Fiesta our local community and those that have traveled from out of town look forward to seeing all the different dance styles that our dancers perform at different venues,” said 2025 Division Chief of Dance and Entertainment Melissa (Missy) Robledo Pulido (Spirit of Fiesta 1989).

Media plays an important role in covering Fiesta. “Since the very first Fiesta in 1924, local newspapers, and later television and digital media, have created countless memorable Fiesta moments for the entire community,” said 2025 Division Chief of external relations and History David Bolton (El Presidente 2023). “The information they provide is a great service to the community.”

During Fiesta, Mercados are the heart of the summer festival. “Mercados are where our community comes together over multiple generations for Fiesta,” said 2025 Division Chief of Marketplaces/Mercados Sean Malis. “The Mercado runs for four days during Fiesta week, and offers free dancing, live bands, food, and beverages – all served to benefit our local community non-profit organizations.”

Fiesta 2025 runs from July 30-August 3. Details at sbfiesta.org

joined her as a partner in their studio and studied photography too. Together they explored the medium while raising three children, Leesa, Lori, and Jerry.

“Being curious is the root of artistic creation,” states Wilson in the 139 page Opus 90 exhibition catalog.

In the 60’s she studied with Adolf Fassbender, who introduced her to Pictorialism. Even as a single parent in 1970 she continued her professional development and earned a Masters of Photography degree in 1973. Then in 1976 she received a fellowship from the American Society of Photographers.

“I began using my clients to satisfy my need to create art,” she continued. Her muse at the time was the Biography of Edward Steichen, a book she continued to return to for inspiration. She was appointed to the faculty of Brooks Institute in 1996 and was assigned to teach master’s students working towards an MFA.

“Photography is a way of emphasizing feelings and emotions,” said Wilson.

Her Opus: 90 includes over 90 pieces of her art work.

Opus 90 ends January 31st at

Photo courtesy of Old Spanish Days

VOICE Gallery in La Cumbre Plaza, 110 S Hope Ave, #H124.

Trapeze by Joyce Wilson

Joyce Wilson at work

Wolf Woman by Joyce Wilson

Music of the Soul by Joyce Wilson

RUTH ELLEN HOAG www.ruthellenhoag.com @ruthellenhoag 805-689-0858 ~inquire for studio classes~

10 West Gallery • Envisionings ~ Feb 16 • 10 W Anapamu • 11-5 We-Mo • 805-770-7711 •10westgallery.com

Architectural Fdn Gallery • Slingshot / Alpha Art Studio Artists ~ Mar 8 • 229 E Victoria • 805-965-6307

• 1–4 some Sa & By Appt • afsb.org

Art & Soul Gallery • Santa Barbara: The Art of Place ~ Jan 30 • 116 Santa Barbara St • artandsoulsb.com

Art & Soul Funk Zone • What Is That: An Artistic Dialogue Between Photography and Diorama ~ Feb 9 • Winter Otherland ~ Feb 28 • 116 Santa Barbara St • artandsoulsb.com

Art, Design & Architecture Museum, UCSB • Public Texts: A Californian Visual Language ~Apr 27; Tomiyama Taeko: A Tale of Sea Wanderers ~ Apr 27 • 12-5 We-Sun • museum.ucsb.edu

Art From Scrap Gallery • Environmental Educ. & Artistic Expression • www.exploreecology.org

ART VENUES

Eric Saint Georges LCCCA Illuminations Gallery La Cumbre Plaza www.ericsaintgeorges.com

The Arts Fund • Mentorship Exhibition ~ Jan 25 • La Cumbre Plaza, 120 S Hope Ave #F119 • 11-5 We-Su • 805-233-3395 • www.artsfundsb.org

Atkinson Gallery, SBCC • gallery.sbcc.edu

Bella Rosa Galleries • 1103-A State St • 11-5 daily • 805-966-1707

The Carriage and Western Art Museum • SB History Makers Exhibit featuring Silsby Spalding, WW Hollister, Dixie; Saddle & Carriage Collections • Free • 129 Castillo St • 805-962-2353 • 9-3 Mo-Fr • carriagemuseum.org

California Nature Art Museum

• A Deeper Love: New Paintings Inspired by Coral Reefs ~Feb 24 • 1511 B Mission Dr, Solvang • 11-4 Mo, Th, Fr; 11-5 Sa & Su • calnatureartmuseum.org

Casa de La Guerra • Haas Adobe Watercolors • $5/Free • 15 East De la Guerra St • 12-4 Th-Su • www.sbthp.org/casadelaguerra

ART EVENTS

Artist Talk at Art & Soul • An evening celebrating the work of John Baran, Pedro De La Cruz, and Sylvan Butera Rich• 1323 State St • free • 5-7pm Fri, 1/31.

Ant Hampton: Borderline Visible • An Art Performance Time Based Editions with music by Oren Ambarchi and Perila • Loeb Family Gallery, SBMA • $25-$40, price includes a copy of Borderline Visible • sbma.net/ticketing • 5pm, Sat, 2/1.

Figure Drawing Workshop • Led by Eric Saint Georges, workshop for all levels • CAW • $60 • sbcaw.org/upcoming • 9am-12:30pm, Sat, 2/1.

SB Arts & Crafts Show • Local artists & artisans • Free • 236 E Cabrillo Blvd • 10-5 Sun.

Carpinteria Creative Arts • Shop locally made pottery, beach art, cards, jewelry, and sewn articles • 8th St & Linden Av • Free • 2:30-6 Th.

Casa del Herrero • Gardens & House • by reservation • 1387 East Valley Rd • tours 10 & 2 We & Sa • 805565-5653 • casadelherrero.com

Casa Dolores • Bandera Ware / traditional outfits ~ ongoing • 1023 Bath St • 12-4 Tu-Sa • 805-963-1032 • casadolores.org

Channing Peake Gallery • 105 East Anapamu St, 1st fl • 805-568-3994

Colette Cosentino Atelier + Gallery • 11 W Anapamu St • By Appt • colettecosentino.com

Community Arts Workshop •

Joe Rohde: Inner Light • Opening Reception Sat. Jan. 18, 5-8pm

• Fridays Jan 24, 31, and Feb 7, 10a-6pm, by appt • 631 Garden St • 10-6pm Fri & By Appt. • sbcaw.org

Corridan Gallery • California Sojourns by Karen Fedderson • 125 N Milpas • 11-6 We-Sa • 805-966-7939 • www.corridan-gallery.com

CPC Gallery • Beauty of the Cosmos ~ Jan 26 • By appt • 36 E Victoria St • cpcgallery.com

Cypress Gallery • Red Zone: Lompoc Valley Art Assn ~ Jan 30-Feb 23 • 119 E Cypress Av, Lompoc • 1-4 Sa & Su • 805-737-1129 • www.lompocart.org

Elevate Gallery@ La Cumbre Center For Creative Arts • Gallery Artists • noon-5 Tu-Su • lcccasb.com

Elizabeth Gordon Gallery • Alberto Valdés: Mi Vida es Mi Arte & Emerging artists from around the country • 15 W Gutierrez • 805-9631157 • 11–5 Tu-Sa • elizabethgordongallery.com

El Presidio De Santa Bárbara • Nihonmachi Revisited; Memorias y Facturas • 123 E Canon Perdido St • 10:30-4:30 Daily • sbthp.org

Elverhøj Museum • 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang • 805-686-1211 • 11-5 Th-Mo • www.elverhoj.org

Faulkner Gallery • 40 E Anapamu St • 10-7 Mo-Th; 10-5 Fri, Sa; 12-5 Sun • 805-962-7653.

Fazzino 3-D Studio Gallery • 3-D original fine art • 529 State St • 805-730-9109 • Fazzino.com

Fine Line Gallery @ La Cumbre Center For Creative Arts • Multi-Artist Space • noon-5 Tu-Su • lcccasb.com

Gallery 113 • SB Art Assn • 1114 State St, #8, La Arcada Ct • 805-9656611 • 11-5 Mo-Fr; 11-2 Sa; 1-5 Su • gallery113sb.com

Gallery Los Olivos • Winter Celebration ~ Jan 31 • Daily 10-4 pm • 2920 Grand Av • 805-688-7517 • gallerylosolivos.com

Ganna Walska Lotusland • Gardens • by reservation • 695 Ashley Rd • 805-969-9990 • lotusland.org

Goleta Valley Library • GVAA Artists Exhibit • 500 N Fairview Av • 10-7 Tu-Th; 10-5:30 Fr & Sa; 1-5 Su • TheGoletaValleyArtAssociation.org

Grace Fisher Fdn Inclusive Arts Clubhouse • Paintings by Grace Fisher • 121 S Hope, La Cumbre Plaza • We-Su 11-5pm • gracefisherfoundation.org

Illuminations Gallery @ La Cumbre Center For Creative Arts • Multi-Artist Space • noon-5 Tu-Su • lcccasb.com

James Main Fine Art • 19th & 20th Fine art & antiques • 27 E De La Guerra St • 12-5 Tu-Sa • Appt Suggested • 805-962-8347

Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara • Portraits of Survival interactive - Ongoing • 9-4pm Mo-Fr • 524 Chapala St • 805957-1115 ext. 114

Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum • Man’s Inhumanity Towards Man ~ Apr 14 • 21-23 W Anapamu • 10-4 Tu-Su • 805-9625322 • https://karpeles.com

Kathryne Designs • Local Artists • 1225 Coast Village Rd, A • 10-5 Mo-Sa; 11-5 Su • 805-565-4700 • http://kathrynedesigns.com

Kelly Clause Art • Watercolors of Sea & Land • 28 Anacapa St, #B • Most weekdays 12-5 • kellyclause.com

Lompoc Library Grossman Gallery • 501 E North Av, Lompoc • 805-588-3459

Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center • Rincon- Queen of the Coast~ Mar 2 • 12-4 Th-Su • 865 Linden Av • 805-684-7789 • carpinteriaartscenter.org

Maker House • 1351 Holiday Hill Rd • 805-565-CLAY • 10-4 Daily • claystudiosb.org

Marcia Burtt Gallery • Holiday ~ Jan 26th • Contemporary landscape paintings, prints & books • 517 Laguna St • 1-5 Th-Su • 805-9625588 • artlacuna.com

MOXI, The Wolf Museum • Exploration + Innovation • 10-5 Daily • 125 State St • 805-770-5000 • moxi.org

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara • 653 Paseo Nuevo • mcasantabarbara.org

Museum of Sensory & Movement Experiences • La Cumbre Plaza, 120 S. Hope Av #F119 • seehearmove.com

Palm Loft Gallery • Beauty of the Wild ~ Mar 2 • 410 Palm Av, Loft A1, Carpinteria • 1-6 Fri-Sun & By Appt • 805-684-9700 • palmloft.com

Patricia Clarke Studio • 410 Palm Av, Carpinteria • By Appt • 805-4527739 • patriciaclarkestudio.com Peregrine Galleries • Early California and American paintings; fine vintage jewelry • 1133 Coast Village Rd • 805-252-9659 • peregrine.shop

Peter Horjus Design • Studio • 11 W Figueroa St • peterhorjus.com

Portico Gallery • Jordan Pope & Gallery Artists • Open Daily • 1235 Coast Village Rd • 805-729-8454 • porticofinearts.com

Santa Barbara Art Works • Artists with disabilities programs, virtual exhibits • 805-260-6705 • sbartworks.org

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

• Seed: A Living Dream ~ Apr 6 •1212 Mission Canyon Rd • 10-5 daily • 805-682-4726 • sbbg.org

Santa Barbara Fine Art • SB landscapes & sculptor Bud Bottoms • 1321 State St • 12-6 Tu-Sa & By Appt • 805-845-4270 • santabarbarafineart.com

Santa Barbara Historical Museum • The Chair: Storied Seats From Our Collection ~ Apr 20; J. Walter Collinge: Pictorial SB and the Beyond ~ May 11; Edward Borein Gallery and The Story of Santa Barbara ~ ongoing • 136 E De la

Guerra • 12-5 We, Fri-Su; 12-7 Th • 805-966-1601 • sbhistorical.org

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

• Kevin A. Short: Above Your Dreams ~ Feb 5-May 11 ; The Chumash, Whaling, Commercial Diving, Surfing, Shipwrecks, First Order Fresnel Lens, and SB Lighthouse Women Keepers ~ Ongoing • 113 Harbor Wy, Ste 190 • 10-5 Daily • 805-962-8404 • SBMM.org

Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

• In the Making ~ Mar 9; Friends and Lovers ~ Mar 2; Accretion ~ Apr 13 • 1130 State St • 11-5 Tu-Su; 5-8 1st Th free; 2nd Sun free Tri-Co residents • 805-963-4364 • sbma.net

Santa Barbara Museum Of Natural History • Big Cats & Wild Dogs ~ Mar 9 • 2559 Puesta del Sol • 10-5 We-Mo • sbnature.org

Ant Hampton to Bring Borderline Visible to Life at SBMA

CAPTURING THE STORY AND SPIRIT OF HIS INTERNATIONAL JOURNEY, British-German performance artist Ant Hampton will unpack the pages of his book, Borderline Visible, from 5 to 6:30pm in the Loeb Family Gallery at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art on Saturday, February 1st.

Boderline Visible chronicles his 2022 trip from Lausanne, Switzerland to Izmir, Türkiye. Full of photographs of old hotels, swallows, collages, blank pages, and quotations from T.S. Eliot’s The Wasteland, the book explores how Europe’s past, particularly

Santa Barbara Sea Center • Dive In: Our Changing Channel ~ Ongoing • 211 Stearns Wharf • 10-5 Daily (Fr & Sat 10-7 until 7/27). • 805-6824711 • sbnature.org

Santa Barbara Tennis Club2nd Fridays Art • Abstract Nine ~ Mar 5 • 2375 Foothill Rd • 10-6 Daily • 805-682-4722 • 2ndfridaysart.com

Slice of Light Gallery • Passage - Photography by JK Lovelace • 9 W Figueroa St • Mo-Fr 10-5 • 805-3545552 • sliceoflight.com

Stewart Fine Art • Early California Plein Air Paintings + European Fine Art + Antiques • 539 San Ysidro Rd • 11-5:30 Mo-Sa • 805-845-0255

Sullivan Goss • Offbeat ~ Jan 27; The Power of Photography ~ Jan 27; Winter Salon ~ Feb 24; The Storytellers ~ Jan 31-Mar 24; Angela Perko Imagined Landscapes & Other Stories ~ Jan 31-Mar 24 • 11 E Anapamu St • 10-5:30 daily • 805730-1460 • sullivangoss.com

Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum • 122 W Canon Perdido • 11-4 Fr-Sa; Su-Th by appt • quinlanmuseum.com • 805-687-4623

SYV Historical Museum & Carriage House • Art of The Western Saddle • 3596 Sagunto St, Santa Ynez • 12-4 Sa, Su • 805-6887889 • santaynezmuseum.org

Tamsen Gallery • Work by Robert W. Firestone • 1309 State St • 12-5 We-Su • 805-705-2208 • tamsengallery.com

Artist & Disney Legend Joe Rohde at CAW

By Maria McCall / Special to VOICE

DISNEY

LEGEND

AND

IMAGINEER

JOE ROHDE addressed an art loving crowd of 60 gathered at the Community Arts Workshop, last Friday.

Exuberant and passionate, Rohde discussed his life path as an artist from early childhood. He focused on the collaborative nature of his work amongst a wide array of human cultures worldwide. Attendees also enjoyed Inner Light, an exhibit of Rohde’s exquisite series of beautifully painted Sycamore leaves. He chose the leaves based on their unusually complex topography, which allows the light to fall not only upon them, but through them. “They are,” he explained, “like California itself, dry but beautiful.”

the ghost of WWII, continues to leave a mark on Europe’s present. As part of the live performance, Hampton will be reading the book with accompanying projection and sound effects, while the audience reads along. This will be the first performance of Borderline Visible in California.

Tickets include a copy of Borderline Visible, which will be distributed prior to the performance.

For tickets ($40, $30 SBMA Members, $25 teachers and students) visit tickets.sbma.net

UCSB Library • Readymade Emanations: Trianon Press and the Art of Tearing Apa ~ Jun 25 • library.ucsb.edu Voice Gallery • Opus 90: Joyce Wilson ~ Jan 31 • La Cumbre Plaza H-124 • 10-5:30 M-F; 1-5 Sa-Su • 805-965-6448 •voicesb.art

Waterhouse Gallery Montecito

• Notable CA & National Artists • 1187 Coast Village Rd • 11-5 Mo-Su • 805-962-8885 • waterhousegallery.com

Waterhouse Gallery SB • Notable CA & National Artists • La Arcada Ct, 1114 State St, #9 • 11-5 Mo-Sa • 805-962-8885 • waterhousegallery.com

Westmont Ridley-Tree Museum

Of Art • Wildland: Ethan Turpin’s Collaborations on Fire & Water ~ Mar 22 • westmont.edu/museum

Retiring in 2021 as a portfolio creative executive with 40 years at Walt Disney Imagineering, Rohde was the overall creative executive and supervising designer for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, including later expansions such as Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain and Pandora –The World of Avatar. His other notable projects include The Adventurers Club (formerly a part of Pleasure Island at Walt Disney World); Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii; and Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! at Disney’s California Adventure Park.

He was especially fond of his Aulani project, which he told the audience provided an authentic Hawaiian cultural experience to visitors.

The event was attended by members of Montecito Bank & Trust’s MClub, members of The Art Foundation of Santa Barbara, students from the Visual Arts & Design Academy of SB High School, and supporters of the Community Arts Workshop, including former Mayor Helene Schneider, President of the CAW Board of Directors.

Rohde is generously presenting his series of paintings at CAW through February 7th as a fundraiser for the Arts Collaborative.

The Community Arts Workshop is a project of the Santa Barbara Arts Collaborative located at 631 Garden Street. www.sbcaw.org

Sycamore leaves from Joe Rohde’s series Inner Light

Borderline Visible (2023) by Ant Hampton/Time Based Editions.

Adrienne De Guevara, Artist Joe Rohde, Casey Caldwell, and Maria McCall

Photo by Priscilla, ©2025

UC Santa Barbara heads to State Street

By UC Santa Barbara Staff

The UC Santa Barbara Current

INTENDING TO HAVE A LARGER PRESENCE IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA, and to work with the City of Santa Barbara and the community to support the revitalization of Santa Barbara’s primary business corridor, UC Santa Barbara received approval from the UC Regents to acquire property on State Street. The mixed-use portfolio on both State and Gutierrez streets, which includes significant commercial space and a residential building, situates the university in the heart of the city and could be another anchor for the business district.

The UC Board of Regents approved the debt-financed acquisition during its November meeting, and the sale is projected to close later this month. The property will be self-supporting, with rents covering the mortgage.

“UC Santa Barbara is extremely proud to be part of the Santa Barbara community and we are tremendously excited about the opportunity to establish a permanent presence on State Street,” said Chancellor Henry T. Yang. “The university has always appreciated collaborating with partners across the county for the betterment of the entire region, and we look forward to working with the City of Santa Barbara and the local community to identify possibilities for this new space that will support downtown and benefit the entire area.”

Although the initial number of available units is limited and a rental process for university employees is still being developed, significant interest among existing faculty and staff in downtown living is anticipated.

The university currently supports MTD bus line No. 24, between downtown and the campus, to reduce traffic impacts, that can be used by university employees living downtown. In addition, creating co-work spaces on site would reduce the number of commuters on the road.

As the region’s largest employer, UC Santa Barbara contributes more than $2 billion in both direct and indirect economic impacts to the region. The university has long had a significant and visible presence in the city, from UCSB Arts & Lectures programming at the Granada and Arlington theatres, and an annual summer movie series at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, to its National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis on Anacapa Street. Still, city leaders and staff and the Santa Barbara business community have encouraged the university to make a move such as this acquisition, as a means of more deeply immersing UCSB in the community at large. The perfect opportunity presented itself in the 1.35-acre property that is home to a retail storefront on State Street, an appliance store and a 78-unit residential building.

The appliance store, Reid’s, has a five-year lease and will remain. The other two components of the acquisition provide unique opportunities to the university and the community alike.

The retail space, an 18,000 square-foot commercial building, formerly housed a Staples store. The university will engage city leaders, local businesses and community partners to discuss ideas and identify opportunities for the space that would best benefit the community while linking UC Santa Barbara more tightly to the downtown area. The university is also developing a process to generate ideas from the campus community for the new space.

Furthering the university’s investment in the region, a UC Santa Barbara storefront on State Street — the space is large enough to house multiple uses — presents a host of possibilities. It could serve as event space for lectures and performances, co-work offices, or a community-supporting innovation hub and maker space. There could be a retail component, or spaces for meetings and conferences. More broadly, it presents a unique opportunity for the university to collaborate with the local community and to play an active role in the future of State Street.

The residential component is the newly constructed Soltara Apartments complex that faces Gutierrez Street. Acquiring that facility will enable UCSB to offer workforce rental housing in a prime downtown location — at economically viable rates for campus staff and faculty members. Approximately 65% of the units are currently occupied and those leases will be honored as written. The remaining units — and any that become vacant over time — will be available for rent by university faculty and staff members. If the university is unable to lease the remaining units to employees, the campus will work with local public government entities with the goal of offering the open units to their employees — including school teachers, first responders and public employees — to support the workforce housing needs of other public agencies.

The residential site also includes 89 parking spaces situated under the first floor, and rooftop facilities that could be used as event space for tenants or for university programming.

The downtown residences are intended to complement the university’s planned project for 540 workforce housing units on the campus, along Ocean Road, which are slated for development in the next few years.

Also in their November meeting, the UC Regents approved the design and adopted the CEQA findings for UC Santa Barbara’s planned San Benito and East Campus student housing project, which will add 3,500 beds to campus housing.

SELENA GOMEZ EMILIA PÉREZ

KARLA SOFÍA GASCÓN EMILIA PÉREZ

HARRIS DICKINSON BABYGIRL

ARIANA GRANDE WICKED

KIERAN CULKIN A REAL PAIN

ANGELINA JOLIE MARIA

RALPH FIENNES CONCLAVE

ZOE SALDAÑA EMILIA PÉREZ

TIMOTHÉE CHALAMET A COMPLETE UNKNOWN

COLMAN DOMINGO SING SING

CLARENCE MACLIN SING SING

MIKEY MADISON ANORA

JOHN MAGARO SEPTEMBER 5

ADRIEN BRODY THE BRUTALIST GUY PEARCE THE BRUTALIST