Post Office Petition – A petition is underway to save the Montecito Country Mart Post Office from closure this summer, P.10
Playground Ballet – From Carnival of the Animals to video game-inspired dance, State Street Ballet’s Recess! delivers fun with precision and flair, P.12
MEET ARTISTS, SIP AND SHOP, AND DISCOVER CREATIVITY IN SOME SURPRISING FORMS WOVEN THROUGHOUT COAST VILLAGE ASSOCIATION’S LIVELY SPRING ART WALK (STORY STARTS ON P.8)
Hospital gala
in flowers and color, page 14
Students for a Cure – Student leaders take on fundraising, outreach, and teamwork in a campaign with real impact on blood cancer treatment, P.18
Step into a lush world of rare orchids, immersive displays, and sensory beauty at Santa Barbara’s celebrated Orchid Show, now in its 78th year, page 22
The red carpet was rolled out, caviar bites were plenty, and celebrity regulars attended in full for Lucky’s 25th anniversary on Coast Village Road, page 28
18 Blood Cancer United – Local students lead a seven-week fundraising campaign supporting blood cancer research
20 Elizabeth’s Appraisals – An inherited piece of Tobacciana tells of silver plating, passing fads, and a slightly mysterious multi-use attachment
21 The Chesley Initiative – The upcoming forum marks a turning point in how long COVID is recognized, studied, and addressed across the country
22 Orchid Escape – It’s not just pretty flowers… the SB Intl. Orchid Show delivers yoga sound baths, dinners, and afterparties in an immersive floral backdrop
24
Entertainment – State Street Ballet does Recess!, Robert Sternin and Prudence Fraser find Somebody to Love, plus more on
Meeting at MA – A gift for retiring Chief Neels, news on the Manning Park pickleball court, plus other updates
Library Mojo – The Montecito Poetry Club sparks back to life, a new Mah Jongg series of classes, and more
Your Westmont – Musicians compete for a scholarship, local teens experience live theater, and film fest call for entries
26 Dear Montecito – Two past Funk Zone employees mourn the loss of [Redacted] and the waning funk found in the changing art district
Curator’s Choice – Botta’s Pocket Gopher specimens
27 Spirituality Matters – Meditation retreats, energy workshops, and a four-day global summit invite Santa Barbara to tune in and reset
28 Lucky’s 25th – Photos and fun from the big celebration of Montecito’s “Second Living Room”
30
Robert’s Big Questions – What types of belief are there? And why do we hold onto a belief?
31 An Independent Mind – In his second part on the War in Iran, Harding argues the ayatollahs want the bomb, not electricity, and the region knows it
Sheriff’s Blotter
33 News Bytes – SB Culinary Experience, Chabad’s Passover Seder, a call for Juneteenth participants and other tidbits
40 Calendar of Events – Las Cafeteras in town, an Orchid Escape, Creekside Revels, and other happenings this week
42
43
Classifieds – Our own “Craigslist” of classified ads
Mini Meta Crossword Puzzles
Local Business Directory – Smart business owners place business cards here so readers know where to look when they need what those businesses offer
Every now and then, a story comes along that refuses to stay put. It lingers on your nightstand. It sneaks into conversation. For us, Last Light in Paradise is one of those stories, and we’re delighted to let it loose, one chapter at a time, in the pages of the Montecito Journal. Well, at least the first six chapters for the time being – then you can purchase the book at one of our local beloved bookstores (Chaucer’s, Tecolote, and Godmothers) or from the QR code below.
This book marks a first for us… Last Light in Paradise is the inaugural book published by MJ Media Group. Yes, we’re dipping a toe – perhaps a barefoot run – into the world of book publishing, guided entirely by our belief in a novel that is as cinematic as it is soulful, as local as it is timeless.
Set against the luminous backdrop of 1930s Santa Barbara, this is a tale of love and loss, mystery and reckoning, populated by unforgettable characters and infused with the kind of atmosphere that feels both dreamlike and deeply true. We invite you to settle in, turn the page, and join us at the edge of paradise… just as the light begins to change.
Scan here for Chapters 1 - 8, and Parts 1 &2
by Michael C. Armour
He was still standing there measuring how fast he had found and lost the love of his life when he saw the sleek car was heading back down the drive toward him. For all his capacity to lead with reason, Creek remained a superstitious man. As she pulled into the turnaround before him, he was scrambling to remember what one thing or word or thought might have caused this luck. Or maybe she just forgot something.
The door swung open, and she got out and stood beside the car, engine running.
“Hi again,” she said. He had not moved a foot since she left.
“I would have bet against it,” he said.
“The thing is, can I stay?”
He had the feeling his smile was wrapped around the back of his ears, making his teeth big as piano keys.
“Until you get fat and old, and even after that,” he finally said.
“I meant, stay for dinner.” She swung the door closed. “I can cook.” She grinned. “Or could. Once. If you have anything more promising than dry goods and week-old jerky.”
She saw him holding his smile as he calculated his pantry, then she couldn’t help laughing.
“Oh lord. It’s true. It’s all you do have. Hey, I’m a big fan of deer meat and canned beans. Older the better.”
“Come. Let me prove I am not a baboon,” he said. She came up beside him and they walked side by side toward the veranda. They looked at each other, both up for brand new but not completely able to forget how brand new never stayed that way.
He said, “You always this …”
“Fast?” she said.
“That, yes. But …”
“Forward?”
“Absolutely. But more …”
“Misguided?”
“Radical, I was thinking,” he said, “with your commitments.”
Montecito Reads Page 344
by Jeff Wing
I’m a man of a certain age but you wouldn’t know it to look at me – in part because the very idea of looking at me frightens you. But guess what? I arise at 5:30 in the morning and go to
a gym and it shows! On any given day, gather your courage and step into my office at around 8 in the morning. There you’ll see a man of a certain age seated at his desk, wearing a blank expression and pouring a pot of coffee into his lap. It’s the scalding and screaming that upsets you and I get it.
Okay, yeah. I am a Boomer – I think you youngsters pronounce it “Bewmer” somehow. Where’d we come from? From WAR, kid! Haw haw! The procreative party at the end of WWII produced a generation of what are properly called Baby Boomers. I like to think of us as Joy Babies. Unfortunately some of you younger people are obliged to work alongside dissolving Joy Babies, and I know how that is. Still more unfortunate is the very name given our socio-historical cohort, as it summons the terrible suggestion of our parents in a room somewhere doing the Lindy Hop. This can curdle the Boomer’s blood, but only every darned time the phrase Baby Boomer is uttered. You Gens X, Y, and Z got off easy. So to speak.
But we Boomers and you Alphabet Munchkins (excuse me) are not so unalike. To invoke the old saying; we put our pants on in the morning just like you do – by leaping up into the air with a victorious shout, desperately seeking leg holes, and charging headfirst through drywall in a hollering burst of gypsum. You see, we are not so different.
Heck yeah, I’m the chattiest guy in the office kitchenette. I fling conversation-killers like a wildly flailing, pre-litigation Wham-O Water Wiggle® once
flung children’s teeth across verdant summer lawns. Take your pick: 1] Hoo boy! Now THAT’s a cup of Joe! 2] Oh that Lee Trevino (spoken dolorously)… 3] Guess what lucky so-and-so just bought an electric can opener?
I’ve seen these spoken phrases paralyze the gathered faces of the young and merely middle-aged. I’m also pleased to be the stooped figure who barges in on your carbon fiber bike frame conversation with excited gestures and the overpowering, workplace-inappropriate scent of Drakkar Noir. “Is there a bike that can beat a Schwinn? Heh heh heh! Heh heh!” And so on.
More poetically, time is like a river. I came up with that and I think it’s a terrific metaphor. As you are borne along, the peaceably meandering stream slowly (at first) becomes a widening, mildly rollicking thoroughfare, then a racing cascade of white water and sharp rocks and bears swinging their big ol’ claws around your face as they grunt and grasp at the staring, underbitten fish leaping out of the violently foaming water. Then the terrifying bears thin in number, the waters calm and you relax beneath fragrant pines, lulled by what sounds like a brisk wind in the treetops. Soon enough this mesmerizing hum is understood to be the approaching waterfall. Not to
by Beth Sullivan
Coast Village Association invites you to the first art walk of the year – our spring Beyond the Canvas event. This special evening has become a favorite gathering where creativity, culture, and local businesses come together in a lively evening stroll along Coast Village Road.
On Thursday, March 26th, from 4-7 pm – galleries, boutiques, and restaurants transform into creative showcases featuring fine art, live painting, fashion, jewelry design, photography, culinary artistry, and interactive demonstrations. Guests will have the opportunity to meet artists, watch works come to life, discover unique collections, and enjoy sips and nibbles along the way. From gallery exhibitions and artist talks to hands-on demonstrations and pop-up experiences, Beyond the Canvas highlights the vibrant artistic spirit of the community and the diverse creativity found throughout the district.
Beyond the Canvas is more than an art walk; it is a celebration of the many mediums of art. Art is not limited to the stroke of a brush or the frame of a canvas, and this evening will showcase creativity in all its forms. Join us and discover the inspiration and heart of our community. See you there!
For more information visit: www.CoastVillageRoad.com and follow us on Instagram @coast.village.road
Caldwell Snyder
Artist talk and reception with John Gibson during the Coast Village Road Art Walk, celebrating his new series of paintings.
For more than four decades, Gibson has centered his practice on the sphere, using it to explore the spatial language of painting and the shifting nature of perception across curved form. In this new body of work, he draws inspiration from the names of 19th-century whaling vessels – evoking themes of ambition, endurance, and vast, unknowable horizons. Each painting becomes a kind of voyage, shaped by illusion, risk, and the pursuit of something just beyond reach.
Gibson’s work is held in major public collections including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the Rhode Island School of Design Museum, among others.
Join us for an engaging evening with the artist and a preview of this compelling new body of work. Wines will be poured by Folded Hills Winery beginning at 5 pm.
Beyond the Canvas Page 254
The Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (CADA) invites you to join us at the 2026 Amethyst Ball: Luminaria: Illuminating the Path Towards Hope and Recovery, on Saturday, April 11 at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
This signature event celebrates hope, healing, and community while raising crucial funds for CADA’s prevention, education, and treatment programs for individuals, youth and families a ected by substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders. Guests will enjoy gourmet dining, fine wine pairings, inspiring stories of recovery, exclusive live and silent auctions, and a headline performance by the legendary American Vinyl All Star Band. Limited tickets and sponsorships are available - reserve your seat for this special event and help illuminate the path to recovery: https://cadaamethystball.org/
by Joanne A Calitri
News that the USPS outlet at the Montecito Country Mart (MCM) will close in four months, slated for July. Miffed about the rationale to close its doors, the team at the MCM has been advocating for support. MCM writes:
Attention Montecito residents! We need your help to save the Montecito Country Mart Post Office. As many of you know, tucked inside the Montecito Country Mart is one of the neighborhood’s most useful institutions: our local post office. Now, like many contract postal counters across the country, it faces possible closure as USPS shifts services to larger outposts – often leaving communities with longer drives, reduced hours, and wait times that can stretch well past an hour. For many neighbors – especially elderly and mobility-limited residents – this small counter makes everyday errands far simpler. If you’d like to help keep Montecito’s post office right where it belongs, please consider adding your name to the petition.
We do fondly recall that – with the sad 2021 closure of stationery store called Read’n’Post at that location – the MCM helped preserve the in-store post office there, retaining the experienced Read’n’Post employee, John Devereaux to work in the current MCM post office. [See my 2021 MJ coverage at: https://tinyurl.com/ MJ-Read-n-Post
We love our quaint little nook, where we buy stamps, pens, cards, mail holiday cards and packages, and they even have complimentary packing tape and a desk to properly wrap our goodies for mailing.
The MCM set up an online petition where locals can weigh in and make their opinion known, hopefully with the result that our village P.O. remains the postal lifeline that it is. The petition reads:
“USPS has informed the Montecito Country Mart that our Post Office will close without providing a clear operational or financial justification. The Montecito Country Mart Post Office has served the community continuously for over 40 years. It serves elderly residents and individ -
uals with limited mobility who rely on convenient, nearby access to postal services. It supports local small businesses that depend on frequent and reliable mailing, shipping, and postal transactions. It allows customers to do multiple errands on foot. The nearest alternative USPS locations are less convenient and, for many residents and shopkeepers of the Lower Village, impractical. Their hours are shorter and are not open on weekends. The presence of essential services serves as a meaningful counterbalance to the nationwide trend toward online shopping and e-commerce, which has hollowed out many traditional retail districts preserving a walkable, economically resilient, and socially connected community. Terminating this contract will put increased demand on other post offices, increasing wait times with an already understaffed USPS and result in more traffic generally. Our employees and operations are paid for by us, reducing USPS’ labor and operating costs. Our request is that you engage with the community and operator to explore reasonable alternatives that would allow the Post Office to remain open and operational. We, the undersigned residents, business owners, and members of the Montecito community, respectfully petition the United States Postal Service to reconsider its decision to terminate the Montecito Country Mart Post Office, scheduled for closure in approximately four months.”
411: Petition Link: https://tinyurl.com/MCM-USPS Email: info@montecitocountrymart.com
Outdoor lighting is something most of us rarely think about, yet it has a powerful impact on birds. White outdoor lighting attracts insects at night and many of those insects die from these bulbs – from exhaustion, predation or from hot bulbs.
This matters far beyond insects because birds rely heavily on caterpillars and other insects to feed their young – it requires 6,000 to 9,000 caterpillars for one clutch. Insects are on the decline all over the world.
The simple fix is to use yellow outdoor bulbs because they are kinder on insects, or better yet, turn off your lights at night.
Nancy Hill
Summerland, CA
I would like to commend Supervisors Lee , Capps , Nelson , and Hartmann for standing up to the Cannabis Industry by Voting “No” to the growers requested extensions to delay the installation of carbon filtration scrubbers in their greenhouses. For far too long the community of Carpinteria has had to endure the noxious skunk-like odors emanating from the cannabis greenhouses. Carpinteria has become known as the stinky city and the cannabis growers have ignored their neighbors’ pleas to stop polluting the air with their malodors. Supervisor Lee took the charge, at the Board of Supervisor’s meeting on March 10th, by holding the cannabis growers accountable. His voting “No” to all carbon filter odor control installation extension requests sent a clear message to the cannabis growers that Enough is Enough and deadlines
must be taken seriously. Finally, there is a light at the end of the tunnel for Carpinteria residents.
Jill Stassinos
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Contributors | Scott Craig, Chuck Graham, Mark Ashton Hunt, Dalina Michaels, Robert Bernstein, Christina Atchison, Leslie Zemeckis, Sigrid Toye, Elizabeth Stewart, Leana Orsua, Jeffrey Harding, Houghton Hyatt
Arts and Entertainment | Steven Libowitz
Gossip | Richard Mineards
History | Hattie Beresford
Humor | Ernie Witham
Our Town/Society | Joanne A Calitri
Health/Wellness | Ann Brode, Deann Zampelli
Travel | Jerry Dunn, Leslie Westbrook
Food & Wine | Melissa Petitto, Gabe Saglie, Jamie Knee
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Montecito Journal is compiled, compounded, calibrated, cogitated over, and coughed up every Wednesday by an exacting agglomeration of excitable (and often exemplary) expert edifiers at 1206 Coast Village Circle, Suite G, Montecito, CA 93108.
How to reach us: (805) 565-1860; FAX: (805) 969-6654; Montecito Journal, 1206 Coast Village Circle, Suite G, Montecito, CA 93108; EMAIL: tim@montecitojournal.net
by Steven Libowitz
Millions of people were captivated by last month’s Winter Olympics, many especially enraptured by the women’s figure skating competition, as Alysa Liu became the first American woman to win an individual medal (Gold!) since Sasha Cohen in 2006, and brought to the endeavor a smart combination of power, athleticism, and grace; not to mention a boatload of personality.
All those traits will be on display this weekend at the Lobero Theatre, where State Street Ballet’s annual family-friendly program exhibits the same attributes and attitudes, albeit on stage rather than ice. Recess! puts together three vastly different pieces in the Carnival of the Animals, choreographed by Alexei Kremnev for the Joffrey Ballet 15 years ago; Interplay, an early and playful work by legendary choreographer Jerome Robbins; and Level Up, the premiere of an SSB commission created by Autumn Eckman and inspired by video games.
The lighthearted yet challenging program was sparked by Camille Saint-Saëns’ Carnival of the Animals, a beloved musical suite whose 14 movements are each focused on a specific animal. Artistic Director Megan Philipp wanted to steer SSB’s annual children-oriented program away from a full-length story ballet and into a more character-driven choreographic outing, one with pairings that require precision as well as playfulness.
“It’s very fun for kids in that the music sounds like the animals, while Alexei’s choreography is so unique,” she said. “It’s very fun for children but also a very abstract, artsy piece with sophisticated movements at the same time. The original costumes were created out of paintings, but the animal characters come more from the movement themes. All the animals from the zoo are there, and four human visitors. It’s so fun and audience-friendly.”
Philipp paired Carnival with Interplay, one of Robbins’ very early works, and something vastly different from what was exhibited in the Tiler Peck-curated dance concerts at the Granada earlier this month. The Robbins piece is a series of jazz-infused vignettes filled with both charm and athleticism and – in a literal allusion to the program’s title Recess! – takes its energy from kids having fun on a playground.
Set to Morton Gould’s “American Concertette,” Interplay, as its title suggests, features fast and fancy footwork from the ensemble of dancers, a number of remarkable jumps that recalls ice skaters’ free programs, and other moves requiring exquisite timing to pull off.
“Kids will love it partly due to the brightly colored costumes, as well as a touch of comedy,” Philipp said. “Adults will appreciate the difficulty of the dance moves. The detail and precision Robbins requires is phenomenal.”
Live music by the Opera Santa Barbara Orchestra conducted by Kostis Protopapas adds another dimension to the two pieces.
Eckman’s Level Up breaks new ground in an SSB commission, the choreographer’s fourth for the company. Tasked only with video games as a theme, Eckman came up with the idea of having the dancers behind a scrim to create the illusion that they’re actually characters inside a video game, mirroring today’s virtual reality as projections will serve as the immersive setting. And it’s not just a single game, but a mashup inspired by dozens of classics dating back to Atari and stopping just short of today’s ultra-violent diversions.
“Video games unite generations,” Eckman told a preview audience last week. “I dropped off somewhere around Nintendo but working collaboratively with
Entertainment Page 324
Join
by Joanne A Calitri
The SB Cottage Health’s 23rd Annual Tiara Ball took place at the Ritz-Carlton on Saturday, March 7. This elegant, bejeweled gala is ticketed out a year in advance to over 500 lucky guests. Noted this year was the super high energy and warmth from the attendees who came dressed to impress in gowns from Paris paired with Jimmy Choo’s and men sporting tuxes or Armani formal suits. Fresh flowers were everywhere. The grand ballroom was decorated with two full walls of video feed, white marble tables on each side paired with round tables around the dance floor, topped with delicate votive candles and flower centerpieces. This five-star ball has every reason to celebrate the successes of SB Cottage Health for its continued advancements in health care science and innovation,
updates to its services, and accumulating awards, including last year’s Top Teaching Hospital recognition by a nationally recognized watchdog org. Per my request for their remarks, Cottage Health Board of Directors Chair Eric Seale, said, “This event is a powerful reminder that exceptional pediatric care is a community effort. The generosity shown at the Tiara Ball allows Cottage Children’s Medical Center to expand services, elevate clinical excellence, and ensure that every child receives compassionate, worldclass care.” Scott Wester, president and CEO of Cottage Health added, “Philanthropy from the Tiara Ball helps ensure we’re always ready to support children in our community, no matter what they’re facing, from sudden medical emergencies to complex diagnoses or long-term specialized care. Your generosity makes it possible
Society Edit Page 324
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We invite you to dive in and experience a new world of financial management.
by Houghton Hyatt
The Montecito Association Board of Directors met in March to discuss a wide range of community issues, including public safety, infrastructure projects, and community initiatives. The meeting highlighted regional construction plans, wildfire preparedness efforts, ongoing work to strengthen community engagement, and the recognition of Fire Chief Neels as he prepares to retire at the end of March.
President Bill Macfadyen reported on a recent site visit to Lotusland, where construction is underway on a major water conservation project that includes excavation for a one-million-gallon underground water storage tank. The project is expected to be completed by mid-July.
The board recognized Fire Chief Neels, who will retire at the end of March after serving as Montecito Fire Chief since 2023. Board members and community partners praised his leadership and dedication to the Montecito community. In appreciation of his service, the Association presented Chief Neels with a watercolor print of the historic Montecito firehouse weathervane.
Executive Director Houghton Hyatt reported that the Association continues to see strong momentum in its membership drive. Check to see if your membership is current! Log into www.montecitoassociation.org
Montecito Water District: Nick Turner from the Montecito Water District reported encouraging progress on water supply and infrastructure projects. Recent rainfall has reduced water demand, while several construction projects continue.
Seismic upgrades at Terminal Reservoir are underway through the end of the year, and a pipeline replacement project on San Leandro Lane
is nearing completion. A new pipeline project will soon begin along Las Tunas Road.
Montecito Fire Protection District: Chief Neels provided an update on fire road repairs and trail access challenges in the front country following recent storms.
Damage on the fire road near Hot Springs has been repaired, restoring 2.2 miles of access from the Hot Springs Trailhead to San Ysidro Creek. However, challenges remain at creek crossings where debris flows created drop-offs as deep as 25-30 feet.
The department is coordinating with the County, Southern California Edison, and the U.S. Forest Service to restore emergency access and support ongoing trail restoration efforts.
Montecito Union School: Superintendent Anthony Ranii shared several updates from the campus, highlighting recent student activities. Sixth graders recently departed for Wolf Camp, while kindergarten students are preparing community helper presentations with participation from parents and local community members. Second graders have been studying water erosion on campus and proposing solutions as “citizen scientists.”
County Supervisor’s Office Update: Aida Thau from the First District Supervisor’s Office shared that the new pickleball court at Upper Manning Park is now open and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be scheduled soon with County Parks and the Montecito Association. California Highway Patrol
has increased enforcement along San Ysidro Road to San Leandro Lane in response to community concerns about speeding. Recent patrols resulted in several citations, and continued enforcement is expected to help deter speeding in the area.
Representatives from the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments presented plans for the final phase of the Highway 101 Santa Barbara North Segment Project, which will begin construction in spring 2026.
Improvements include new carpool lanes, a complete rebuild of the Cabrillo Boulevard interchange, two new freeway bridges, updated freeway ramps, and improved traffic circulation.
Landscaping with drought-tolerant plantings will also be incorporated where space allows. Major milestones include bridge construction through summer 2027, ramp construction through summer 2028, and final landscaping expected in 2029.
The board voted unanimously to rename the Land Use Committee to the Community and Government Relations Committee, reflecting its evolving role in coordinating with government agencies and engaging the community on key policy issues.
The Safety Committee reported that it does not recommend moving forward with license plate reader systems at this time due to cost, legal concerns, and limited usefulness for solving local crimes.
Outreach efforts will focus on expanding membership and building relationships with community leaders through upcoming events, including a spring wine and cheese gathering and additional donor engagement opportunities throughout the year.
Planning is also underway for the Montecito Village Fourth of July Parade. If you would like to help with the preparations, please contact us!
The Hands Across Montecito initiative reported new signage is being installed at Butterfly Beach prohibiting sleeping or camping from sunset to 6 am, allowing the Sheriff’s Office to enforce the ordinance if necessary. City Net and Earthcomb will present a comprehensive update on local outreach efforts at the next meeting.
The Montecito Association has been bringing residents together since 1949 to protect the character, quality of life, and natural beauty that make Montecito unique. Not a member? Visit www. montecitoassociation.org to join. Questions? Email: info@montecitoassociation.org
“Hull
by Zach Rosen
Every three minutes someone is diagnosed with blood cancer.
It is a statistic that delivers a staggering reality and underpins Blood Cancer United’s annual Student Visionaries of the Year campaign, a seven-week fundraising effort that places high school students at the center of both outreach and leadership. Locally, the effort to raise $200K has been led by juniors Jack Hyatt and Sebastian Fabio , who have spent the past several weeks organizing meetings, building a team, and engaging their community in support of blood cancer research.
Guiding them is Casey Kang, a campaign development manager with Blood Cancer United. Her role is to mentor the students through the process, helping them develop the practical skills needed to run a campaign while keeping the focus on its broader purpose. For Kang,
that purpose is not theoretical.
Before joining the organization, Kang spent years as a patient – a three-time blood cancer survivor whose cure came from the very kind of research this fundraiser supports.
Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2014, Kang underwent an extended and difficult course of treatment. There were brief periods of remission, followed by relapses, and eventually a point where standard options had been exhausted. What remained was uncertain.
At that stage, she was offered access to an experimental immunotherapy developed through research supported by Blood Cancer United. The treatment had limited data behind it and no guarantee of success. It was, in many ways, a final option. It worked.
The therapy brought her into remission and ultimately became part of a new class of treatments now approved for use in patients with similar diagnoses.
Her experience now serves as a direct example of how research funding translates into real outcomes.
That connection has shaped the way this year’s campaign is carried out.
For Hyatt and Fabio, the work has extended well beyond fundraising totals.
The Student Visionaries program is structured as a leadership initiative, asking participants to take on responsibilities that mirror professional environments. Students are expected to organize teams, communicate with donors, and manage a campaign on a fixed timeline.
At the same time, the cause itself remains central.
The scale of blood cancer is significant. In addition to the frequency of diagnoses, roughly 1.8 million Americans are either living with the disease or in remission.
For many involved in the campaign, those numbers reflect personal experiences with family members or friends.
That awareness has informed the tone of the team’s outreach. It is not simply about meeting a fundraising goal. It is about supporting research that continues to expand treatment options and improve survival rates.
The effort has included a series of community-based initiatives, including a recent fundraiser at Renaud’s Bakery in Montecito, where a portion of proceeds supported the campaign.
The event has already taken place, but it formed part of a broader push during the campaign’s final stretch.
That stretch is now coming to a close.
The Student Visionaries campaign ends this Friday, March 20, marking the conclusion of seven weeks of sustained work. Even so, the students have emphasized that support for Blood Cancer United is not limited to that timeline. Donations to the organization remain open, and the need for research continues.
Much of that process has been new. It has required learning how to reach out to people in a formal setting, how to follow up, and how to maintain consistency across weeks of outreach. It has also required navigating the challenges of team management, where keeping peers engaged can be as demanding as securing donations.
Kang’s mentorship has focused on those details. The emphasis is on communication, preparation, and follow-through. Students are encouraged to approach the campaign not just as a cause, but as an exercise in building skills they will carry forward.
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For Kang, that continuity is clear. The treatment that helped save her life was once experimental, supported by the same kind of fundraising efforts now being carried out by the students she mentors.
For Hyatt and Fabio, the campaign has provided a first look at how that cycle works. The work they have done over these past weeks is immediate and measurable. The impact it supports will unfold over time.
Visit https://tinyurl.com/BCU-Jack-Sebastian to make a donation
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This charming 3BD/2BA home is set on 0.17-acre on a private lane in MUS district. The cottage has vaulted ceilings, new floors, designer kitchen and baths, new roof and systems, lush gardens and mountain views.
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by Elizabeth Stewart
Coops sends me a fantastic piece of ancient history – that is, an ashtray (classy looking in silver) with little cradles for cigarettes. This object occupies a vintage category called Tobacciana, and hails from that epoch when most of us smoked. This ashtray features a revolving roll top for discrete dispensing of ashes (if one would rather not sully the piece’s aesthetic beauty by simply tapping ashes onto its lovely dish-like exterior) and has a decorative gadroon or ropestyle trim. The roll-top is removable for the presumed emptying of ashes. Coops’ grandparents smoked – she, cigarettes, he, a pipe – and they had this little silvery ashtray whose removeable attachment is not entirely explicable.
Nothing I found resembled this ashtray. Coops showed it around the
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CALM antique show a few weeks back in Santa Barbara, and the consensus was that the attachment also held matches, and the slider on the side was a striking surface. It is also possible that the attachment held a lighter, and so could be removed for ease of use in that context; grandfather lighting grandmother’s cigarette. The ashtray is heavy even without the centerpiece, and the centerpiece has six lines of threading which requires several counterclockwise spins to undo from the ashtray. In any event it is a curiosity, and it is also curious to think that smoking-related objects are collectible. There are plenty of smoking related objects, so many that the context of collecting those is called Tobacciana, because by the 1960s, 65% of all American men smoked, according to the American Lung Association. My best friend Devi and I did too, sneaking around in high school. Women began to smoke almost as much as men after 1930-40, as the advertising world associated cigarettes with glamor and sophistication. Sometimes I miss smoking.
The attachment on Coops’ ashtray is a cavity 2.5” deep, and the center has little knobs on the side and screws that unscrew. It is hallmarked with two shield shapes; one bears a shape of a leopard’s head with a “V” mark. The leopard head is associated with sterling silver, and it has been since Edward I decreed it so in 1300, believing that leopards were lions. This piece is not sterling, but it is British. The only way it could be read as sterling is if the leopard’s head were accompanied by three
other marks – a lion “passant,” a date letter in a box or shield shape, and a maker’s mark, usually initials.
Coops writes that she can barely make out the “V” inside the shield shapes, and that tips me off that her little ashtray is electroplated nickel silver specifically created by Viners silver plate of Sheffield, England, a firm founded in the 19 th century by Emile and Adolphe Viener. using their special process to make silver plate which was called ALPHA plate. The British populace of the 1930s and 1940s LOVED silver plate because it looked like the Queen’s silver but was affordable.
I find it interesting that objects that were supposed to scream “upper class” were silver plated, even though it was not practical for them to be plated. For example, an ashtray that holds burning cigarettes and cigars should not be made of silver-plated metal. But it looked so classy! Imagine a hot piece of metal on your nice George IIIstyle mahogany coffee table (George III [1738-1820] didn’t have coffee tables) in the 1940s living room and you will see what I mean.
Viners Silver (notice the anglicized version of the name Viener) became the dominant maker of silver plate and only sold to the American firm Oneida as recently as 1980. Viners made tea trays, tea sets, coasters, and flatware, usually with fancy edges like Coops’ round ashtray, and were the lower-class version of the higher class silverplate firm, Mappin and Webb.
Silver plated objects are not worth much unless you have Sheffield silver, a heat-based silver-on-copper bonding process that preceded electroplating (prior to1850). I love Sheffield plate because you can see the copper metal underneath the silver plating, and it has a warm glow. It’s called Sheffield because it hailed from Sheffield and grew to Birmingham. Post-1840s silver plate will bear the initials EPNS or EPBM for electroplated nickel silver, or electroplated Brittania metal silver.
The value of Coops’ little ashtray with roll-top might be $75. If anyone knows assuredly what the round thing is, please email me elizabethappraisals@ gmail.com.
Elizabeth Stewart, PhD is a veteran appraiser of fine art, furniture, glass, and other collectibles, and a cert. member of the AAA and an accr. member of the ASA. Please send any objects to be appraised to Elizabethappraisals@ gmail.com
by Zach Rosen
Long COVID resists easy definition. It arrives unevenly, lingers unpredictably, and for many patients, exists in the uneasy space between symptom and diagnosis. In the years since the pandemic began, millions (18M in fact) have reported not returning to baseline – fatigue that doesn’t lift, cognitive disruption, respiratory changes that persist without clear explanation. What has been equally persistent is the difficulty of recognition: a condition widely experienced yet inconsistently diagnosed or treated.
Against that backdrop, The Chesley Initiative has emerged as one of the more structured efforts to close that gap – translating research into clinical practice and, just as critically, into awareness. That work comes into sharper focus this Saturday, March 21, when the California Long COVID + IACCI Clinical Implementation Forum will take place at the Mar Monte hotel.
The event is less a standalone conference than a checkpoint in a broader effort to bring coherence, urgency, and legitimacy to a condition that has long operated without all three.
The origins of The Chesley Initiative are not institutional. They are personal, and they are long. Chesley Heymsfield has lived with an infection-associated chronic condition for nearly three decades – an experience that began at 18 and took ten years to formally diagnose.
That timeline, by her own account (and many others), is not anomalous. It reflects a broader pattern in which patients with post-infectious illnesses move through years of uncertainty, often told their symptoms are rare, isolated, or insufficiently understood.
That premise – that these conditions are not rare, and that patients are not alone – became foundational to the Initiative’s approach. Rather than treating long COVID as an entirely novel phenomenon, the work situates it within a larger category of infection-associated chronic conditions and illnesses (IACCI), connecting it to decades of underrecognized post-viral syndromes. From the outset, the emphasis has been on translation: how to move emerging research out of academic silos and into the hands of clinicians who can act on it.
The early phase of that work took shape in Santa Barbara, where a pilot model was developed to address one
of the most persistent gaps in care –diagnosis. The approach is deliberately pragmatic. It centers on equipping primary care providers with the tools to recognize these conditions earlier, rather than relegating them to specialist clinics that cannot meet the scale of demand. From there, the model expands outward: frontline diagnosis paired with access to more advanced centers for complex care.
The early phase of that work took shape in Santa Barbara, where a pilot model was developed to address one of the most persistent gaps in care – diagnosis.
That framework has since scaled beyond the region. The Initiative has extended into Ventura County and, more recently, into Louisiana through a series of medical education efforts.
At each stage, the objective remains consistent: shorten the time between symptom onset and diagnosis, and create a system in which data can be captured, aggregated, and used to inform treatment pathways.
A significant inflection point arrived with the development of the IACCI provider manual, created in collabora-
tion with Mount Sinai’s Cohen Center for Recovery and from the efforts of The Chesley Initiative. The manual outlines diagnostic criteria, assessment strategies, and point-of-care interventions – effectively offering clinicians a structured way to approach a condition that has often been treated as diffuse or indeterminate.
Its recent incorporation into guidance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) marks a shift from fragmented understanding to something closer to standardization. As Heymsfield notes, the framework is now positioned as a set of recommended clinical guidelines at a national level.
For patients, that shift carries practical implications: a higher likelihood of recognition, a clearer pathway to care, and a growing acknowledgment that these conditions warrant structured medical response.
The forum this Saturday is designed to operationalize that shift. The program moves from keynote to physician panels to patient discussion, bringing together contributors from Stanford, UCLA, USC, and local health systems.
Its focus is not theoretical. It is implementation; how to translate a newly established framework into day-to-day clinical practice, and how to ensure that patients are identified earlier in the course of illness.
That work remains incomplete. Key questions persist, particularly around
biomarkers and the underlying drivers of disease – whether viral persistence, immune response, or cumulative “multiple hits” contribute to onset and severity. Without those answers, treatment pathways remain provisional, and outcomes uneven.
Still, the direction is clearer than it was. What once operated as a diffuse and often dismissed set of symptoms is increasingly being defined within a shared clinical language. The forum reflects that transition – an effort not to conclude the conversation, but to move it forward with greater precision, and with a system beginning, finally, to take shape.
Admission to the March 21st forum is free and those interested can attend virtually or in-person. Register and find more information at www.chesleyinitiative.org. Visit www.hhs.gov/ longcovid/index.html to see the new HHS guide.
by Zach Rosen
The Santa Barbara International Orchid Show (SBIOS) opens like a passage into another world. For this upcoming weekend, March 20-22, Earl Warren Showgrounds will fill with dense greenery, towering installations, and orchids from across the world arranged in full-scale displays. These are not small tabletop exhibits. They are built out as environments, with layered foliage, lighting, and design that draw you in and hold your attention. The result feels expansive and unexpected, even for returning visitors. As President Lauris Rose says, there is “nothing like it,” and after a few steps inside, it’s easy to see why people come back year after year. A key feature that makes the SBIOS so unique is not just the vast range of orchids that enchant the space during the day – it’s also the variety of special events that dot the evenings and event throughout. This year, the theme of “Orchid Escape” gives visitors a chance to lose
themselves in the splendor of the scene.
The Orchid Escape Dinner, held Saturday (March 21) evening, seats guests directly within the exhibit space for a four-course meal by Chef Amy Baer. Tables are set among the displays, with soft lighting and floral arrangements shaping the atmosphere. The setting does much of the work. You are seated in the middle of the show, taking in the color and scent while moving through each course. Wine pairings and a relaxed pace give the evening a sense of occasion without feeling overly formal.
For those looking to soothe themselves into the setting, the Orchid Serenity yoga and sound bath this Thursday (March 19) offers just that. Guests begin with a guided yoga session, then transition into a sound bath delivered through immersive headphones. Rose helped introduce the idea after seeing similar experiences elsewhere and recognizing how well it could fit within the show. The combination of movement, stillness, and sound creates a quieter way to engage with the
space. It draws a different crowd and adds another dimension to the weekend.
Whether you've just set down your bags or been adventuring around Solvang all day, guests at The Winston know the most relaxing spot in town for a drink is right where you are. And with an Honor Bar stocked with SYV libations, you're guaranteed to find your new favorite local drink, too.
On Friday evening, Orchids After Dark brings a shift in tone. The lights drop, music comes up, and the exhibit takes on a more social energy. A DJ, drinks, and a steady flow of people moving through the displays give it the feel of an evening event rather than a traditional show. Rose pushed for the idea as a way to bring in new audiences and keep the space active after hours. It has quickly become one of the most talked-about additions, with guests lingering longer and treating the exhibits as a backdrop for the night.
SBIOS itself carries a long history in Santa Barbara. It is one of the oldest orchid shows in the country, shaped by a region that became known for its ability to grow cymbidiums at scale. In the mid20th century, growers began establishing nurseries across the area, turning Santa Barbara into a center for orchid cultivation. Early competitions grew in size and ambition, eventually outgrowing smaller venues and moving into larger spaces like Earl Warren. That growth continues today, with international growers still making the trip to exhibit here.
For Rose, the connection runs deep. She attended the show as a child and learned photography while walking through it with her father. That early exposure shaped her understanding of both the plants and the culture around them. Now, as president, she brings that perspective to bear on how the show evolves. New ideas are introduced carefully, with an emphasis on keeping the
core experience intact while expanding opportunities for visitor interaction.
Workshops and tours remain a major part of the weekend. Hands-on sessions cover topics like kokedama, orchid mounting, and repotting, giving attendees a chance to work directly with the plants. Demonstrations run throughout the day, offering practical advice and insight from experienced growers. Visitors can also sign up for guided tours led by members of the American Orchid Society, which highlight award-winning orchids and explain what sets them apart. The balance between spectacle and substance is what keeps the show relevant. It offers something to look at, something to learn, and increasingly, something to take part in. Each visit feels a little different, shaped by how much time you spend and where you choose to focus.
Visit www.sborchidshow.comfor more info
by Jace Turner
After a hiatus of a few years, the Montecito Poetry Club returned to the Montecito Library last month. Kicking off in 2014, and led by poetry lover and devoted library volunteer, Carole Baral , the Montecito Poetry Club was a beloved program that met each month in the Montecito Community Hall. The concept was simple. Each month Carole would select a poet, learn about the poet’s life, and gather a sampling of poems for the group to read and discuss. I had the honor of attending a number of these meetings and was struck by Carole’s enthusiasm for not just the written word, but for the process of making poems. Carole’s passion was infectious and the discussions were lively. From 2014 to 2022 Carole covered 80 poets ranging from Robert Frost to Santa Barbara’s Poet Laureate, Emma Trelles (2021-2023). When Carole moved to Arizona, the Montecito Poetry Club was handed over to Montecito Library staff member, Carli . Channeling Carole’s poetic spirit, Carli thrived in taking deep dives into the lives of the poets the group read each month. Carli’s poet biographies are legendary – the photographs and narrative, the care with which she studied the poets’ lives. These biographies deepened the monthly poetry discussions. After Carli left the library to pursue other passions, the Montecito Poetry Club faded into the sunset…that is until last month.
Kicking off the third iteration of the Montecito Poetry Club, we invited current Santa Barbara Poet Laureate, George Yatchisin, to be our featured poet. Eighteen eager poetry enthusiasts sat in a circle reading George’s poems aloud, discussing his poems, and asking George questions about the inspiration behind them. George also talked about some of the projects he’s working on as Santa Barbara’s 11th Poet Laureate, including a new anthology of poems by local poets celebrating food and drink in Santa Barbara, due out this April and published by Gunpowder Press. The Montecito Poetry Club meets every other month and the next meeting will be held on April 15 (April poet is TBD). Other Montecito Library programs in the lineup include a memoir writing workshop led by poet, writer, and
teacher, Diana Raab , on March 18. Diana’s publishing record is impressive and her classes at Godmothers Books are in high demand. And if Mah Jongg is more your thing, then you are in luck! This April, the Friends of the Montecito Library are hosting a series of classes, “Learn to Play Mah Jongg for Beginners in Four Easy Lessons.” The first class will be on April 20. Experienced instructors Cynthia McClelland and Sandra Walther will guide participants through the fundamentals of American-style Mah Jongg. Along the way, they’ll also explore the game’s rich history and learn the etiquette that makes playing both fun and rewarding. Registration is required and is limited to 16 participants. (NOTE: Please register only if you can attend all four lessons. While most beginners learn the game relatively quickly, it typically takes several lessons to understand the somewhat complex rules.) Also returning this April is Tech Coaching at Montecito Library. Looking to learn how to download free audiobooks and eBooks from the library? Want to learn how to navigate your new tablet? A Tech Coach will be available Wednesdays from 12-2 pm. To make a 45-minute appointment, give us a call at 805-969-5063.
All events listed take place at Montecito Library (1469 East Valley Rd.) Open Tuesday-Friday 9 am to 5 pm & Saturday 10 am to 2 pm. All SBPL locations are closed on Tuesday, March 31.
EARLY CHILDHOOD:
Stay and Play, Tuesdays | 9-10:30 am
ADULTS:
Knit ‘n’ Needle Thursdays | 2-3:30 pm
ADULTS:
Everyone Has a Story: A Memoir Writing Workshop with Diana Raab Wednesday, March 18 | 10 am to 12 pm
ADULTS:
Montecito Book Club Tuesday, March 24 | 2-3 pm | Meets every fourth Tuesday of the month.
All Montecito Library programs are free and open to the public, although some require registration.
Learn more at: calendar.library.santabarbaraca.gov
by Scott Craig, photos by Brad Elliott
Violinist Nathan Schafer of Highland won the Westmont Music Department’s 14th annual Guild Scholarship Competition and was awarded the $15,000 annual Guild Scholarship on March 7 in Deane Chapel.
This year’s incredibly talented group of musicians also included Isaac Wu, a violinist from Glendale; Ava Siebelink, a cellist from Corona; Josiah Mitchell, a baritone from Santa Barbara; Monet Pelluer, a Seattle-based soprano; and Hannah Schweiger, a violinist from Newport Beach.
Following the recital with the six guild finalists, past Guild Scholarship winner Aaron Wu (’27) and past Guild Finalist Leah Nieman (’27) performed while the adjudicators deliberated. The panel of judges included music professors Steve Butler, Daniel Gee, Han Soo Kim, Ruth Lin, and Zig Reichwald
“The Music Guild awards have helped numerous highly talented students attend Westmont, and they’ve helped enhance the musical culture of
our community,” says Ruth Lin, chair of the music department. “There was great camaraderie and spirit among all the student musicians. The ethos of the evening focuses on celebrating the gifts that God has granted these young adults and witnessing how they’ll honor these gifts.”
Schafer, who was joined by Westmont collaborative pianist Chika Nobumori, performed the first movements of both Henryk Wieniawski’s “Concerto No. 2 in D Minor,” and Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Sonata No. 1 in G Minor.”
Schafer, who began studying violin at the age of five, studies with Sam Fischer at the Colburn Community School of Performing Art and has been a member of the Claremont Young Musicians Orchestra since 2022.
About 120 junior high and 40 high school students enjoyed a special matinee performance of Little Women by the
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Clark’s Oyster Bar
Their first time joining the event –look for culinary demonstrations, art, and fun! Featuring local artist Andreas Zwan painting on the patio along with complimentary oysters. Wine and martinis will be available for purchase at menu prices. Happy Hour pricing until 5 pm.
Belrose Estate Jewelers
Erica Brown of Dylan Star will be hosting a pop-up showcasing her concierge styling service, Dylan Delivered. Stop by to shop a curated assortment of pieces available for purchase and get a firsthand feel for the intentionality behind her Dylan Delivered styling experience.
Daniel Gibbings
Meet photographer Nicole Coleman and view her amazing photography of scenic beaches and scapes inspired by our beautiful coast
Faherty
Haven Salon
Featuring the artwork of Larry Iwerks. He is a local artist that comes from a family of artists. He is exhibited in several museums and has been featured in other gallery shows.
Heritage Goods and Supply
Local artist Betzhi Walton will lead a bird watercolor demo and will have an assortment of paintings available for purchase.
McLaughlin
Meet local jewelry designer Janey Cinzori, who has followed her passion for the love of the ocean and its surroundings. She has worked in the field of the arts and design in Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz and Maui for over 30 years. Her designs will be on display and for sale.
Johnny Was Featuring “The Art of Scarf Tying” Learn how to enhance any outfit by adding your favorite scarf.
Kathryn Designs
Featuring Olivia of Poppy & Snow Embroidery, an embroidery studio that creates elevated coastal-inspired apparel and souvenirs. I design and embroider pieces inspired by Santa Barbara and Carpinteria.
Pedro De La Cruz will be painting on the Porch.
Peregrine
Artist Karen de la Peña local scenes on canvas. Beyond the Canvas (Continued from 8)
Portico Gallery
Speak with artists painting in our garden.
• Mary Kay West: Gold medal Winner in the Historical California Art Club
• Dirk Foslien : Famous for his beautiful poppy paintings in our gallery. One of our most popular artists.
• Dan LaVigne: Known for his fluid design and brush strokes. A gallery favorite.
Silverhorn Design Studio
View works in progress, meet the team of artistic designers and see their hand fabrications, techniques, and setting styles. Browse through their extensive selection of rare, sought after gems. Consult with one of Silverhorn’s designers on a custom one-of-a-kind piece made to your specification including the gem of your choice. Guests can also browse through books of sketches and photos to review Silverhorn’s extensive selection of over 30 years of designs. This creative team win awards for craftsmanship and their modern designs year after year. Their pieces appear in museums and fine art collections around the world, on Hollywood’s red carpet and every day on local residents.
True Love Always
Come see our fabulous Framed Couture Scarves and sip bubbly with us.
Veronica Beard
Veronica Beard is hosting a Sip & Shop in partnership with Folded Hills, showcasing the brand’s new Spring collection as well as the exclusive Veronica Beard x Thomas Lélu collaboration.
Waterhouse Gallery Watch canvases come alive. We will have two amazing artists – Ralph Watehouse and John Comer – painting in person at 5:30 pm in the gallery.
Sweeping Ocean & Channel Island Views in Summer/and, CA
by Beatrice Tolan
Two former employees of the Funk Zone, who met and fell in love in Santa Barbara’s Arts District, share their frustration with the disappearance of locally owned community spaces.
For my first article back from hiatus, I contacted my premier source for finding interesting artists to interview in Santa Barbara, my old pal Ariel. She’s a 27-year-old queer artist and musician who worked in the Funk Zone for three years. If you want to spend a weekend night supporting local artists in the Funk Zone, she knows the places to go. Or knew those places, I should say
Once Santa Barbara’s Arts District, the Funk Zone’s DIY and community art spaces are dwindling. And with a controversial 250-room hotel on the horizon, spearheaded by L.A. real estate developers, local artists are eager to carve out more spaces designated for community gathering. Ariel (A) and her partner Claire (C), who worked at the same winery and community space [Redacted] for three years in the Funk Zone, catch me (B) up on what’s happened since [Redacted] suddenly closed last year.
B. How did you both get started working in the Funk Zone, and what was your experience working at [Redacted] till it closed down?
A. So, I started working in the Funk Zone in 2023. When I first moved back from Brooklyn to Santa Barbara, I wanted to work in the Arts District. And
then, because I’d been gone for seven years, I was like, “Oh shit, this neighborhood is so different. Like, where is the art? There’s no art here anymore.” But then I found [Redacted]. The old school Santa Barbara that I wanted. It’s the kitschy environment that I miss and love so much.
B. Whenever you think of old school Santa Barbara, what are some other establishments that come to mind?
A. Like Cold Spring Tavern definitely is one.
C. Peabody’s in Montecito. Paradise Café. B. Yeah. Also, Giovanni’s on Coast Village Road.
A. Yes, Giovanni’s. Also The Funzone, which was a DIY music space alongside the Batting Cages near East Beach.
B. Also Scoops! That really tore me up. Claire, when did you start working in the Funk Zone?
C. I started working in the Funk Zone in 2018 as an artist’s assistant. It was more artsy and kind of dingy. Artists were living down there because all their studios were there, but now those are all gone. The artist I used to work for, Paul, he had a studio near Garden Street. Now, they’re putting in a 250-room hotel. Everyone had to be evicted. It was there for 15, 20 years. I mean, it’s just… they’re just ripping the soul out of Santa Barbara.
B. Wow, I wasn’t even aware that the artists’ studios on Garden near the Funk Zone were evicted for the hotel.
A. It’s gonna be one of the biggest hotels in the county. The charm of Santa Barbara is completely leaving this place, and it’s just becoming a mini-L.A., and that’s not what we want.
B. And I guess that takes me to my next question. What are your hopes and fears
No, this isn’t a collection of antique corn dogs – it’s a scientifically valuable record of regional biodiversity. These are Botta’s Pocket Gopher (Thomomys bottae) specimens in the Vertebrate Zoology Collections at Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. To the consternation of many farmers and gardeners, gophers seem particularly abundant in the region right now, probably in response to ample rain producing the plant foods they rely on. Gophers do more than just eat the roots of your favorite plants. The Museum’s newest curator, Curator of Mammalogy Ally Coconis, PhD, wants you to know that gophers provide a number of valuable services, as well. They may help speed up post-fire recovery by aerating the soil and spreading fungal spores that help resurgent plants acquire nutrients and water. Gophers are also great food sources for small to medium-sized carnivores.
for the future of the Funk Zone and the surrounding Santa Barbara community?
A. My hope, my dream, is that the hotel gets canceled. The artists are able to come back. My hope is that the people that are developing these really expensive buildings would want to put that money towards inclusive spaces, something that’s for the community rather than just for more tourism, more money. Foster the creativity in this town. Give it back to the locals who have made this town so appealing to tourists.
B. How have you guys been cultivating community outside of tourist spaces?
A. Well, that was a big thing with [Redacted]. We would throw community events there: drag shows, open mics, Planned Parenthood events, book clubs. So many people got married there. It was such a celebrated local spot that had been open for 15 years. It was the second winery to open in the Funk Zone. It was a fixture of a community, and it’s a really
massive blow that it’s gone now. I miss it so much.
B. Well, I think it’s kind of a crisis for alternative communities.
A. Yeah, there’s no space for alternative counterculture. And people say, like, “Santa Barbara is a place for the newly wed and nearly dead.” Yeah, that’s not true. There’s a lot of people here that are young and alive, and we have nowhere to go.
Beatrice Tolan is a fine artist, animator, and writer living in Los Angeles after residing in Montecito for 20 years. She is invested in building community through unique perspectives and stories. beatricetola @gmail.com
by Steven Libowitz
Three of Santa Barbara’s song leaders come together again on Friday, March 20, for a special Spring Equinox community singing event in the Funk Zone. Amisha Sera Luna, who regularly leads community singing circles both indoors (every 1st and 3rd Sunday) and periodically at local parks, will be joined by Alison Zuber and Heather Stevenson, the latter of whom leads weekly song circles at Yoga Soup on Tuesdays, for the 6:30-8:15 pm event.
The evening begins with gentle movement to leave the day behind and sink into one’s body and being, followed by sharing collective gratitude before diving into the community singing experience with a theme of welcoming spring. As always, the largely simple songs will be taught by call-and-echo, with no experience needed to participate. The event finishes with a small ritual – planting the seeds of what’s to come this season with the intention to align with your desires, nourish your spirits, and delight in community.
The circle will be held at Amisha’s regular song circle space at 209 Anacapa St. in Funk Zone. Upcoming Sunday circles, held 4-5:3 pm, are set for April 5 & 19 and May 3 & 17. Admission is free, with a suggested contribution of $10-$40 to sustain the event, although no one will be turned away for lack of funds.
Amisha and Stevenson will also be among the leaders at the next Singing Resistance Song Training on March 25 at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara, 1535 Santa Barbara St., where the focus is on learning and joining together in singing protest and rally songs, both traditional and by modern song leader composers, with universal themes of peace, unity and understanding. The training, which comes ahead of the No Kings Rally on March 28, also takes place 6:30-8 pm. No admission fee. All are welcome. Visit www.amishaseraluna.com/communitysinging
Next up in the series of free workshops hosted by Santa Barbara practitioner Dr. James Kwako at his upper State Street office is an episode in his new The Light of Healing monthly series. “We Are All Made of Light,” led by Candace Wheeler, an International Spiritual Psychology Counselor based in Santa Barbara, will guide participants through an exploration of the science and spirituality of our inner light, and how reconnecting with it can help us trust our own presence, power and truth. The free gathering is designed to be reflective, grounding and expansive, particularly valuable to those feeling called to slow down, reset your energy or reconnect with a deeper sense of clarity and self-trust.
Wheeler will share stories from her mystical encounters, explain how they became tools for healing and self-reclamation, and offer guidance on resetting your “energy frequency” from limitation to expansion.
The gathering, slated for 10 am to12 pm, takes place at Kwako’s office at 3015 State Street, Suite B. Admission is free. To guarantee your seat, call 805-565-3959 or email kwakooffice@gmail.com.
of Practice: Awakening as a Way of Life”
Registration has opened for the next Non-Residential Retreat at Santa Barbara Bodhi Path led by the center’s resident teacher Dawa Tarchin Phillips , who will
lead the retreat in meditation, embodiment, and awakening slated for ThursdayMonday, April 16-20, and available both in-person and online. Phillips will focus on the question of “What does it mean to live a life of practice?” sharing how in the Buddhist tradition, awakening unfolds through the steady cultivation of awareness, compassion, and wisdom. A life of practice invites participants to bring meditation off the cushion and into our bodies, our relationships, our work, and the rhythms of everyday life. Through personal practice, guided meditation, Dharma teachings, contemplative dialogue, and gentle embodied practices, the gathering will cultivate insight and integrate it into daily life. The retreat will include periods of silent meditation, teachings from the Buddhist tradition, mindful movement and embodied awareness practices, and time for reflection in nature.
All are welcome, regardless of experience, whether you are new to meditation or have practiced for many years.
Visit https://ezregister.com/events/43029 for more details, the full schedule and registration. Limited partial scholarships are available on a first come basis. Contact sb@bodhipath.org with your interest, commitment and financial need before March 24.
One-off events at Yoga Soup over this fortnight include a pop-up featuring Stone Readings in the lobby 10 am – 1 pm on Sunday, March 22, when Lys Poet will work with visitors to discover which crystals align with your personal chakra energy field and soul’s journey. The Spring Equinox event invites emerging insights into ourselves in the 15-minute sessions, which are offered by donation with sign up in the morning.
Ojai sound healing and voice pioneers Isaac and Thorald Koren and Eileen McKusick, together known as Sing the Body Electric, have created a powerful transformational vocal experience designed to move your emotions, get you in your body and help you discover a powerful voice you didn’t know that you had. The trio’s album Vital Awakenings: Rock Mantras features songs composed of 42 different sounds and tones that resonate in specific areas of the body. Participants in the Friday, March 27, facilitated workshop will employ breath, sound, rhythm, and guided toning to awaken vitality, release stored tension, and restore a felt sense of coherence in the body.
Visit www.yogasoup.com/events
The 2026 Resonant Healing Summit is a free event over March 26-29 that serves as a journey for an international community of practitioners, facilitators, and newcomers to explore, learn and practice the Alchemy of Relationship, how love and connection literally reshapes our brains, our bodies, and our lives. Each morning begins with an opening session from Coloradan poet laureate Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer, followed by a keynote speaker representing the fields of neuroscience, relational healing ,and poetry whose work has helped reshape how we understand the human nervous system, emotion, and transformation – including two keynotes by Resonant Healing founder Sarah Peyton
The bulk of the four-day summit consists of more than 35 experiential workshops spread across three tracks of Movement & Creative Expression, Resonant Language, and Constellations. This long weekend is intentionally designed as a deep experiential journey, where each day builds on the one preceding. Everything is offered free of charge so that the work can reach as many people as possible.
Visit https://sarahpeyton.com/2026-resonant-healing-summit for details, schedule and registration
story by Joanne A Calitri & photos by David Mendoza III
Hello loves! I am certain by now you’ve read all about it in Women’s Wear Daily, the Hollywood press, and – yes – Rolling Stone Magazine. And now, yours truly brings you into a scene both luminous and joyous – Lucky’s 25th Anniversary soirée held on Sunday, March 8.
We entered Lucky’s Steakhouse on Coast Village Road via red carpet, four Hollywood Klieg lights brilliantly sweeping the bejeweled night sky above us. Following check-in, servers greeted us with champagne, and on entering we saw the regular dining tables had been cleared away to make of our communally beloved haven a cozy open floor plan, where happily dazzled guests could mingle while enjoying cocktails, wine, and a tequila bar of Nosotros Tequila & Mezcal. Gorgeous circulating hors d’oeuvres were miniatures of those knockout Lucky’s menu items for which the place is justly celebrated – from filet bites in black pepper sauce to honey crusted chicken. The back restaurant area provided high top tables delicately bathed in soft candlelight and bursting with fragrant sprays of fresh white roses. The full bar was open and the live jazz combo kept spirits high.
The private, invite-only affair saw two seatings, one from 5 to 7 pm and the second seating at 8pm till… well, let’s just say we went with the flow! The first seating had the celebrity regulars –Kevin Costner engaged in serious a tête-à-tête with Carol Burnett and husband Brian Miller ; Larry David , who graciously did not Curb His Enthusiasm at having his photo snapped (despite having declined the request some 30 minutes before); Michael J. Fox came with Christopher Lloyd ; Michael Douglas ; Fox NFL announcer Curt Menefee ; Heidi Blair Montag Pratt in glittering cocktail attire with husband Spencer Pratt ; Dennis Miller with wife Carolyn Espley ; Matt Sorum , the former drummer for Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver alongside his fashion designer/singer wife Ace Harper ; Alan Thicke’s love Tanya Callau . Also present – the Lucky’s Steakhouse happy trio of founding titans – owner Gene Montesano with son Gianni Montesano ; owner Jim Argyropoulos ; and owner Herb Simon with his daughter Sarah Meyer Simon, aka the Butcher’s Daughter who manages Lucky’s NYC; Montecito general manager Larry Nobles ; Lucky’s Steakhouse Soho NYC general manager Amanda Geller ; Montecito managers Adrian Dominguez , Brett Sanderson and Sergio Alvarez ; Head Chef René González ; first waitress employee Brenda ; hostesses/events managers Karen Schneider and Jennifer
Brooks ; and literal brothers in the kitchen Abraham and Hugo Alvarado As the tide rolled out for the second seating, so did the triumvirate of owners, leaving the fittingly named Larry Nobles to gild the swinging affair with heartfelt public declarations [see my videos on MJ website]. Nobles, “Tonight we come together to celebrate a milestone of Lucky’s Steakhouse – a quarter of a century. We know people who had their first dates here, got married, had kids – we’ve seen bridal showers, baby showers, kids’ birthday parties, and then lots of marriage proposals to which the answer was “No!” [general laughter] To our incredible owners; your vision, your passion, and tireless dedication has been the foundation upon which this restaurant stands, as well as your knowledge, resilience, and investment in the restaurant and community it serves. “To our extraordinary staff—thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You are the lifeblood of Lucky’s. Your dedication, your hard work, and your commitment to excellence have made us who we are. Each day, you show up not just to work, but to create an experience for our guests that is full of warmth, care, and service. You’ve stood by us through economic challenges, fires, mudslides, and the pandemic that changed our world. And through it all, you have shown resilience and unwavering support. There is no way we would have made it to 25 years without each of you—your spirit, your professionalism, and your passion for what we do. You are the heart and soul of this place, and for that, we are forever grateful.” And now to all our wonderful guests, your loyalty and support mean the world to us. You’ve celebrated life’s most special moments here, shared laughter and made us a part of your lives, and returned for the food, community, connection, and warmth that Lucky’s represents. We are grateful for your having allowed us the honor of serving you for the past 25 years. Let us toast the past with gratitude, the present with appreciation, and the future with hope. Here’s to 25 more! And to close, I’m so looking forward to the memories of Right Now.”
With that, manager Brett Sanderson came forward with a bottle of champagne and two glasses for Nobles and himself. They toasted each other and then raised a communal glass with the evening’s smitten guests.
Local luminaries seen at the second seating were Jenna Jobst Reichental with husband Avi; Anne Smith Towbes; owners of Bread Basket Cake Company (#IFKYK) Gilbert and Paul Delagnes; Victoria Popoff and Brad Ardis; Deena and Gary Clevenger; Nosotros Tequila partner Andrew Veal serving their small batch agave elixir; realtor Whitney Parker with Keller Williams; Claire Del Prete; Amanda Geller; and Hannah Reed.
bring you kids down. (Hey… you done with that?)
One day a colleague here at work was talking about his great-grandfather having only recently passed, and we all marveled. It seemed the wrong moment to point out that my own great-grandfather had served as a soldier in the Civil War. Yes, that Civil War. I almost pitched in with this comment, but my Spidey Sense© informed me that the remark would be met with icy stares, or the open-mouthed horror with which Patricia Owens greets an insectoid David Hedison in The Fly. When a colleague’s father visited the office one day, this alleged parent looked like he could be my Junior Achievement mentee. He had dark hair and it covered his entire head, for instance. “Hey everybody. This is my dad,” my co-worker said with enthusiasm. “Yes, well, has dad cleaned his room?” I wanted to say. It’s all a little disconcerting.
In my working life I have always been the light-stepping, humor-filled Mr. Popular in whatever office was lucky enough to host me – a happy-golucky colleague whom my co-workers daily regarded with frank wonder and delight. I would jauntily stride in every morning with my elbows aloft and my happy fists lightly clenched before my solar plexus, like a soft-shoe fella about to snap his necktie.
My conversational litheness was legendary, my bon mots received with the rippling laughter of genuine pleasure. Nowadays when I have the ill-advised courage to lob a careless one-liner into the happy melee of office conversation, my comments are met with a sudden, smothering silence – an acoustic absolute zero so complete you can hear the crickets stealthily tip-toeing out of the room. “What on Earth is Jack talking about now?” my young and vibrant compatriots collectively wonder, to which my own chatterbox id replies “Hey, my name is Jeff.” So, yeah. I’m working on my repartee. Note to self: leave the Johnny Mathis impression at home.
The enlightened company I work for is not averse to hiring the Autumnal, and there is thankfully a peer group of the fellow-wizened that I can turn to for support and esprit de corps. We wintry-haired denizens remember, as in a distant dream, the antediluvian pre-computer Age of Legend, when
televisions had only three stations and “remote control” meant throwing your dad’s ashtray at the buttons, when flirting and typing were wildly unrelated activities, and when the kitchen phone was bolted next to the pantry at about shoulder height, the receiver attached by a long cord. “Roaming” in those days was defined as the distance you could excitedly run into the next room with the receiver in hand before you reached the end of the tether and loudly tore the phone off the wall.
These are different times. In olden days, for example, we would have thought it strange to convey grief or commiseration by sending someone a yellow cartoon face squirting cartoon water out if its eyes. But this epoch of abbreviation does have its upsides. I checked out a copy of Moby Dick from the library the other day – a classic I’ve long wanted to read. It was a single laminated sheet of paper with two emojis; a frowning whale and a peg-legged guy shaking his little fist. So… that’s a glass half-full, I guess.
When we Joy Babies see each other around the office we’ll exchange rueful smiles in passing, or we’ll stop and engage in bewildering secret handshakes. Actually, these are the standard, brief handshake of olden-times, but to our co-workers, with their elaborate four-minute finger wiggling and knuckle-bumping hipster greetings, a simple clasping handshake can look positively Masonic. We more seasoned
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by Robert Bernstein
“Everyone needs to believe in something. I believe I will have another beer.” This bumper sticker really made me laugh.
In Through the Looking Glass the White Queen proudly tells Alice “Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”
Having grown up in a secular humanist family, the idea of believing in something seemed silly. One should strive to know things based on evidence. Ideally, one should not just “believe” anything.
One time in high school Latin class one of my classmates, Manuela, was talking about something in her Catholic religion. I innocently asked her why she believed that thing. Our teacher Ms. Paska came over and said to me that Manuela shared my beliefs but just added some of her own.
I puzzled over this and realized that Ms. Paska meant that Catholics believe the same things as Jews but add some extra bits. As if believing more things was a bonus.
Skeptic podcaster Michael Shermer recently hosted a conversation with former Harper’s Magazine editor Christopher Beha. Beha calls himself a skeptic, but he believes in God and is a Catholic. This is a recurring theme on Shermer’s program: Self-proclaimed skeptics who believe unsupported religious claims.
Beliefs matter. People kill and go to war for beliefs. But sometimes a belief is really about tribal identity, not about actual belief.
Shermer gave the example of biologist Ken Miller who said he believed in the resurrection of Jesus. Shermer pressed him on this point and Miller said that he doesn’t “literally” believe it. But “I am a Catholic and that is what we believe.”
Sometimes it is a mix. Many Islamist Jihadi fighters believe that they will be rewarded in paradise with 72 virgins. This derives from a Hadith from Al-Tirmidhi, which states that a martyr is married to 72 houris (pure, intensely beautiful, and immortal companions).
They “believe” in Islam in the tribal sense of belief. But then they have a practical belief of reward. With no evidence.
My recent article “Why Save Others from Oppression?” mentioned the magic power of “because” that we use to justify our actions. We hold a belief and then look for a “because” to justify
it. But some things do not require a because. We should save others from oppression because oppression causes suffering and suffering is unpleasant. No further reason needed.
One challenge for me as an environmentalist: Can I justify why it is good to save species from extinction? If an entire species goes extinct, individual members of that species no longer suffer. I have to admit this is an “unsupported belief” that I hold: We should not cause a species to go extinct. Most species in Earth’s history have gone extinct. But humans can choose not to be the cause of extinction.
In mathematics we can prove a theorem, but only when we start with acceptable axioms. Mathematics does not care if our axioms are nonsense when applied to the real world. But if we want the theorems to be true about the world, then our axioms must be based on what we know to be true about the world.
At some point, we get down to our core beliefs that cannot be proved. These are our axioms. Some are aspirational. Some are contradictory. I might believe in reducing suffering. I might believe in Justice. Freedom. Human dignity. Not starting wars. But what if a group is being oppressed? Perhaps sacrifice and suffering are needed to end that oppression? Perhaps it is even necessary to start a war to end that oppression? There are no easy answers because some things cannot be known. Sometimes we take a leap and hope for the best. Going to war is a far more serious action than our supposed leaders seem to grasp. Current case: Iran.
In summary, I will note that there are at least three completely different meanings of belief: 1) Evidence-based belief. 2) Identity belief (as in the case of Ken Miller and the Jihadis). 3) Axiomatic belief.
When identity belief replaces evidence-based belief, societies can unravel. Perhaps we should at least be aware of what type of belief we hold?
Robert Bernstein holds degrees from Physics departments of MIT and UCSB. His passion to understand the Big Questions of life, the universe and to be a good citizen of the planet. Visit facebook. com/questionbig
by Jeffrey Harding
On the day this article reaches the newsstands it will be the 19th day of the WAR in Iran. Things are still uncertain and moving fast.
My Part I article on the war yielded a lot of comments, good and bad. I’m accused by critics of a lot of things –mainly that I ignored the administration’s confused justifications and that I misunderstood the history of Iran and their nuclear ambition.
There is still much confusion in the administration, especially about the why. While that is a surprising way to start a war, it is typical of Trump. It would have been more reassuring if he had said the only way to stop terrorism and achieve peace in the Middle East is to get rid of the regime and to never let Iran become a nuclear power. But he didn’t.
I noted in my piece that there were constitutional issues of a president’s war powers plus a cynical reference to the timing of the mid-term elections. I have written a lot about the dangers of an imperial presidency, but I wanted the article to focus on the war and what I thought were good reasons for it and, since we were already there, now what?
Some comments noted Iran’s repeated protestations that they only sought the right to refine uranium for peaceful purposes and that they had no nuclear ambitions. I don’t think that any of that matters today except maybe Trump’s competence to run a war.
What does matter is Iran’s continued terrorism and their desire to become a nuclear power. The stated goal of the messianic fanatics who control Iran is for Iran to be the hegemon, the dominant power of the Middle East. They also want to wipe Israel off the planet.
One tool they use to achieve their goal is terrorism against those who oppose them. Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis and other terrorist groups are their proxies for terrorism. They create chaos everywhere.
Then there is the fact that the ayatollahs want the bomb. They always have. It is their ticket to becoming a superpower in the Middle East and the world. If they do become a nuclear power, nobody – including the U.S. – can touch them for fear they will use it. These messianic fanatics believe they are the true instruments of God, and they will do what they can to preserve themselves.
I have little confidence that they will achieve an effective “command and control” apparatus over their nukes as does nuclear Israel, India, Pakistan, and North
Korea. Those countries went nuclear to preserve their borders. Iran has expansionist goals of exporting their Islamic Revolution to their neighbors.
The nuclear deal with Iran reached by the Obama Administration in 2015 allowed Iran to enrich uranium to a non-weapons grade level. Trump pulled out of the 2015 deal in 2018. The UN International Atomic Energy Agency stated that Iran had been sticking to the 2015 deal by enriching uranium only to levels allowed by those guidelines, and that they were enriching uranium solely for peaceful purposes.
Let me explain why that is a lie.
Anyone believing they were processing uranium for “peaceful” purposes is ignoring reality. A nation with large oil reserves doesn’t need uranium to generate power. What they want is a supply of uranium that has been refined to “weapons” grade. To do that they need the equipment and scientists capable of refining uranium. The right to refine uranium to “legal” standards is a start. That same equipment has the ability to refine uranium to weapons grade. When they have the ability to secretly develop it to weapons grade, they will.
The Israelis have the best information about Iran from reliable sources including sources they have developed from within Iran. They have said the ayatollahs’ long-term goal is to achieve nuclear weapons and that it is likely that they are secretly continuing to refine uranium. Since this is an existential threat to Israel, they can’t afford to get it wrong. I believe the Israelis, not the ayatollahs.
They already have semi-guided ballistic missiles with a range of 2,000 km (1,240 miles). We see what they have done with drones and shorter-range weapons. It is obvious they have or will have the ability to increase the range of their missiles. Ultimately, if left alone, they will have missiles armed with nuclear warheads with increased range.
No one knows how this war will come out. So far, the regime is cleverer than Trump and his administration had anticipated. That is the problem with wars: s**t happens. I agree with critics that one can doubt Trump’s resolve and his ability to see things beyond his own political hide. I think it is best to ignore almost anything that comes out of the Trump Administration right now.
My hope is that this war will allow us and the Israelis to eventually achieve the important goal of peace in the region. That seem a long way off right now, but giving up is a worse alternative. Someone must stop Iran.
Teacher Harassed / 200 block San Ysidro Road
Monday 03/02/2026, at 1515 hours
A schoolteacher called to report her ex-boyfriend was displaying alarming behavior. He recently showed up at the school to deliver expensive gifts and Valentine cards and has also written love poems for her online. She is now in fear of her safety. The incident was documented and she was advised to seek a restraining order.
Meth / N. Jameson Road
Monday 03/02/2026, at 1300 hours
Deputies responded to a call about a resident’s nephew – acting strangely under the influence of methamphetamine – making his aunt, the victim, afraid to leave her house. The subject admitted to recently using methamphetamine, had nowhere to go, no one to care for him, no money, no means of transportation, and expressed some disbelief that the victim herself was real. Due to his inability to care for himself while under the influence of methamphetamine, he was arrested and transported to the Main Jail.
Wireless Camera Indoors / Featherhill Road
Friday 03/06/2026, at 1711 hours
The victim and his caretaker found a wireless ring camera in his house installed above the fireplace that neither of them had installed. The victim had a professional take a look at what they’d found, leading to discovery of a wireless network that was coming from inside the house itself. Neither the victim nor caretaker had installed the network and neither had previous knowledge of its existence. The investigating officer discovered the network had been installed by the victim’s son. The victim’s son claimed he had created the wireless network – which would ultimately include a camera in the garage to look after their cars – but claimed he had not yet set up the cameras. The son agreed to remove the wireless network and to get explicit permission from his father were he to consider such an installation in the future. The victim wanted documentation of the situation because he considered the whole episode suspicious.
for us to invest in dedicated staff, leading-edge tools, and innovative treatments that give every child the best chance to heal.”
I arrived early to coordinate my top priority photographs of Wester, Seale, and the Tiara Ball committee, along with a lovely photograph of Seale and his wife, scientist Sandy Seale PhD, Dr. Miriam Parsa, MD, Chief Pediatric Medical Officer of Cottage Children’s Medical Center, and VIPs.
The event Co-chairs, Heather Hambleton and Lisa Iscovich, shared with me about the importance of the ball’s funding: “The Party of the Year is a night to celebrate the extraordinary Cottage caregivers whose compassion and skill make these bright futures possible for our youngest patients. Every day, our caregivers bring hope to families facing their most difficult moments. We are honored to support Cottage Children’s Medical Center alongside those attending tonight’s gala to help ensure that this remarkable resource continues to be a place where healing begins and that no child faces illness alone – and that every family feels the embrace of a caring community.”
Hambleton and Iscovich’s Tiara Ball committee were Gina Andrews, Katy Bazylewicz, Andrew Brown, Sharon Jordano, Allison LaBarge,
Mari McAlister, Sue Neuman, Alex Nourse , Cathy Quijano , Betsy Turner, Mary Werft, Nicole Wester, and Margaret Wilkinson
The ball began with a champagne and cocktail reception and professional photo ops at the “sweep.” Dinner remarks were made by Wester, and co-chairs, Seale and Dr. Parsa. State Street Ballet gave a brief performance. A video about a patient receiving care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was shown. Guests were invited to support pediatric care through The Giving Sea.
Noted guests included Surgery Residency Program Director Dr. Jeff Gauvin with the SBCH surgical residents who are sponsored annually to attend the ball by camera shy “Mama Bear” Linda Yawitz; Scott Wester, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cottage Health and his wife Nicole Wester; Lisa Moore, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Cottage Health; Dr. Dina Alsowayel and Architect Tony Chase of Houston, Texas with SBMA Board Chair Michael C. Linn and wife Carol Linn; Westmont College President Dr. Gayle D. Beebe and wife Pamela with Supervisor Roy Lee and Jeanette Gumber RN BS; Jennifer and Kris Zacharias ; Jerry and Geraldine Bidwell, Ronna Hitchcock Hoffman, David and Anna Grotenhuis; Tom and Deborah Loeb; Patrick McAlister; Kay McMillan; and Cottage Health Board officers and members.
As we go to press, I am informed that the Tiara Ball raised over $810,000 in support of the Cottage Children’s Medical Center. The top sponsors of the 2026 Tiara Ball are Ben and Naomi Bollag, Chivaroli & Associates Insurance Services, Jeff and Sharon Jordano, Jordano’s, the Harold McAlister Charitable Foundation, and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians.
Till next week! Xx, JAC
the dancers I learned about a lot of newer games with avatars and Dance Dance Revolution. We’re putting all of them in there in a blur of reality with the setup that a gamer can’t find their remote and ends up inside the game like in Wreck It Ralph.”
The dancers will dive under coins and over blocks, get chased by fireballs, grab stars, and climb a flagpole, among other endeavors in the eight-minute piece, said Eckman, who cited Pac-Man, Qbert and Galaga among her favorites. Those are among the games that loosely show up in the soundtrack by musician/composer Role Music, whose score serves as an earworm.
Just as in the other two works on the program, Eckman engages the SSB dancers with challenging choreography, but reported that last week’s rehearsal process was upbeat throughout.
“We can be serious in the studio, but we’re also having a lot of fun,” she said. “I think the audiences will too.”
Which Philipp said is precisely the point of Recess!
“We’re at a point in the company where making ballet relevant for kids can have really sophisticated dancing in a package that’s very accessible for both children and people who go to the ballet all the time. It’s a completely joyful program that just sums up everything wonderful about being a kid – having imagination and very few worries, and just finding that really honest, raw joy in life that we somehow forget when we’re older. It’s what the world needs right now. You’re going to walk out happier than you were when you came in.”
State Street Ballet’s Recess! has three performances March 21-22 at the Lobero Theatre, including a “Sensory-Friendly” Saturday matinee. A partnership with the Santa Barbara Zoo, the Grace Fisher Foundation, and State Street Ballet Young Dancers offers interactive activities for the family before each performance and during intermissions. Visit www.lobero.org
Robert Sternin and Prudence Fraser, the longtime Montecito couple with 40 years of massive successes in TV sitcoms and more, swear that their brand new jukebox musical Somebody to Love isn’t about their own lives, even though the story begins in the early 1970s, right around the same time the couple first got together as undergraduates at Tufts University.
Four friends meet freshman year of college, where they vow to change the world and be there for each other, life’s roadblocks be damned To be fair, while the story does indeed have some parallels with their own history, the idea of writing a 70s –80s jukebox musical was in fact originally pitched to Sternin and Fraser. They are the husband-and-wife famous for writing and producing early episodes of Who’s the Boss, and developing, producing, and writing the first four seasons of The Nanny. Sean Daniels, a theatrical director friend, called and asked Sternin and Fraser to meet him in Las Vegas to see a band – and talk about doing a musical together with a soundtrack of hits from the era.
“He said, ‘Do you guys like ‘70s rock?’” Sternin recalled over the phone from his car. The couple did the interview while on a break near the Rubicon, where Somebody to Love will premiere at the end of March. “We said, ‘Are you kidding? It’s the music we listen to on vinyl in the basement,’ which became the tagline of the show.”
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workers revel in appearing momentarily interesting on those occasions. And, hey – we are very interesting, darn it! Both generationally and as terrifically alluring individuals, we Joy Babies are possessed of real verve. Yep. Lots and lots of verve.
We are, after all, emissaries of a more vibrant time, a time when an Apollo astronaut would sneak a Wilson sixiron onto his spaceship and later drive a golf ball two miles across the surface of the moon. Yeah, baby; the moon! The gulf between this workforce generation and my own can be bridged if we’ve the will and the heart. Or hearts, I guess.
Bottom line? The other Joy Babies and I are… well, We are You. Whoa! Easy, there. Your raised jazz hands and despairing cries of No! No! No! No! No! will summon security! You know what I say is true. We hunchbacked Joy Babies were once like you; fresh-faced and given to happy laughter that didn’t end in a fit of consumptive coughing.
Hey. C’mon. [slow blinks and reaches out withered arms in frightening gesture of ‘70s-era come-hither] We know what you’re feeling, because we once felt it, too! We looked with curiosity and mild pity on the older co-workers with whom we were occasionally entrapped, they of the ash-flecked knit tie, push-broom mustaches and Tassled Loafers®. “Oh holy cow!” we would whisper in the elevator. “Didja get a load of those Tassled Loafers®?!”
Later that same “day” we find ourselves older and awkward and inexplicably wearing Tassled Loafers®. It’s the Circle of Tassled Loafers®! So, we do feel your pain. When one day you have reached middle age and find yourselves working alongside swinging younger folk who make fun of your old musical heroes Taylor Quick and MouseHead (or whatever), remember, always, that life is a cycle. It’s a unicycle, unfortunately; difficult to master and nearly invisible to garbage trucks.
by Joanne A Calitri
One week of SB Culinary Experience x Wine Tasting event slated for May 11-17, in partnership with The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts.
The Julia Child Foundation’s signature honors, The Julia Child Award, will be announced and presented on Friday, May 14, at Godmothers Bookstore Summerland.
411: https://sbce.events
Summerland Citizens Association community gathering on March 25 from 5-7 pm at 100 and 101 Innovation Pl, formerly the QAD campus. Agenda: a talk from First District SBC Supervisor Roy Lee, meet the SCA board, welcome new Fire Chief Daniel Stefano, Summerland Beautiful, finance report, and public comment.
Celebrate Passover Seder at Chabad of Montecito, April 1, at 7pm.
411: www.jewishmontecito.org
Santa Ynez Tribal Health Clinic (SYTHC) is one of only two primary care facilities in Santa Barbara County to attain AAAHC accreditation. The clinic has successfully earned a renewal of its national accreditation from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) for another three-year period, following stringent review of its care and services. SYTHC accommodates more than 26,000 patient visits per year – with an active patient population of over 9,200 – and employs 68 team members.
411: www.sythc.org
The deadline for Artists, Vendors, Volunteers to apply for the 2026 “Love for The People” Juneteenth Celebration is April 15. Juneteenth will take place on Friday, June 19, at Plaza Del Mar in Santa Barbara.
411: https://juneteenthsb.org/
Stefan Matulich, president of Alma Rosa Winery, invites community to the 7th annual Alma Rosa fundraising walk Sunday, May 31, at 9:00 am. New this year, the wellness weekend will begin on Saturday, May 30, with One Shining Night, a fundraising celebration hosted at Alma Rosa Estate by Mental Wellness Center. Held from 5-8 pm (with a VIP experience from 4-5 pm), the evening will celebrate nearly 80 years of the organization’s service to Santa Barbara County. All proceeds will directly support essential mental health programs and services for adults and their families, mental health education for youth, and safe, affordable housing for those living with mental illness.
Registration Required: https://mentalwellnesscenter.org/mwc-events/one-shining-night-2026
Saturday, March 21, 2026
3pm – 5pm at Tecolote Book Shop 1470 East Valley Rd. Montecito, CA 93108 (805) 969-4977 tecolotebookshop@yahoo.com
“Me?! You just got me fat and old in one breath.”
He watched the playfulness in her body when she talked. It told him she was a fundamentally shy woman. Only when she was happy could she come into the world.
He said, “I was thinking: never leaves home, then, leaves and never goes back. Home.”
“Ah. Afraid if he feeds her, she’ll never leave. Remember? The rumors? The mad heiress shut-in?”
They walked beneath the large Dutch elm and up the stairs to his porch, where she could see most of his land and the sea beyond it.
“I have a kitchen.”
“You have a view that shames mine.”
“I was thinking steak. Put you in charge of the rest of the plate.”
He heard them before he saw them. They watched as a half a dozen automobiles came into view over the rise, all moving in a furious bank of dust down the road that led to his house.
“They part of your property?” she asked.
“No.”
“More people trying to buy you out?”
“I believe they are the holy shit brigade.”
The two of them stood watching as the cars came down the road. Each vehicle circled the big palm tree until the parade came to a stop, engines died, doors opened, and a small army of impeccably dressed men stepped out and began walking toward them. Creek recognized Judge Warren, Chief Councilman Horst Rasmussen, Police Chief Wade, and a few others. Johnny Diamond was not among them. They walked up politely, appreciative of the scale and sweep of his ranchland. The tall man with the bow tie, too-perfect features, and tailored clothes, was the lead councilman whom Creek had heard was a shoo-in for an upcoming senatorial seat.
“Mister Creek,” Rasmussen said. Creek thought it odd that he hadn’t addressed Ranny first.
“Councilman.” Creek nodded.
The man turned to Ranny and nodded slightly, saying, “Miss.”
“Miss Ranny Starbuck,” Creek said, “who is my guest. In case anyone starts using anything less than the King’s English.”
They were a clutch of politicians, with the carved smiles of professional liars, but the surprise of Ranny’s name worked like a fast jab, startling the suave right out of them. They replaced it abruptly with the high-watt focus that brightens for celebrities. It told Creek how mysterious her fame was and how successfully she had remained private, floating out to the public only rarely, but always a darling of speculation because of her beauty, money, and former fame.
As all ten men doffed hats, Creek knew he’d disrupted their carefully planned attack. He began to grin and could see that they thought he was gloating.
“You all on a mission to try to steal my land again? Or you here about the plane?” Creek asked.
“Plane? What plane?” It was Chief Wade.
“Jesus Christ. What now. Plane? Nobody said squatilydoodle about a plane.”
It was a short man who looked like a grumpy rat. With his jaw and chest jutting at a permanent angle, as if to life at large, Creek knew this to be Chumpsky, the city’s legal clerk. Creek also knew him to be the one anomaly on the council – he could not be bought and, therefore, would never be elected to any significant office. Creek admired this and knew that one day, should he need the truth, as surly as the man was, he would get it. The man owed Creek a very big favor, though he didn’t know it. Creek had helped one of Chumpsky’s relatives in France, and Creek knew the favor would be honored when it came due.
“Hello, Mister Chumpsky. Nice to finally meet you,” Creek said, meaning it.
The man scowled but nodded rough acknowledgment. Creek looked at the rest of them. “So, you’re here about Charlie Russell.”
“Also,” Judge Warren said, “because you sent three boys to the hospital. Real lucky the bullets passed through the flesh. Still, it’s three citizens leapfrogging around town on crutches. A very embarrassing sight.”
“Not lucky,” Creek said. “Intended.”
“Jesus, Mary, and Joseph! You shot up three of our boys! They work for us!” It was a big, round man with foggy glasses and a small boot size, named Jewel. Chumpsky piped up, “Not three. Two. He let Billy Langtree shoot the last one.”
Creek looked at Ranny. She was no longer smiling. She was shocked.
“They were young men!” someone said.
“They did nothing. Not a weapon, not a raised voice.” It was Jewel again.
“I don’t remember seeing you there,” Creek said. The man looked down.
“I have it that’s how it went. They are not hooligans,” Jewel mumbled.
“You’re here to school me? About something not one man among you witnessed or could possibly know about without talking to me?” Creek asked.
Rasmussen stepped into the purpose of their visit. As he spoke, his Danish accent bled through the years of bending reluctantly to English.
“Creek. We’ll do this another day. You have company. This matter of the accidental death of the Indian is over. I am, we are, the rule of law here. We’ve had enough public embarrassment.”
Creek said, “Afraid the headlines will chase away the big land rush?”
“That you say such a thing, and during this time of the Great Depression!” Rasmussen assumed a righteous pose, head up and eyes fiery.
Creek grinned and said, “Why else would you let a dead man float up on a beach and not report it? I mean, without a head? Sell all kinds of papers.”
“For God’s sake, Creek, it was an accident. Leave it alone.” It was Warren.
“And you know that how?” Creek said.
“The boat washed up this morning. His things were in it. Along with plenty of frayed wires and hooks.”
“I heard.”
Rasmussen walked forward a step and put his hands on his hips, stumping.
“This movie isn’t just frills and glamour!” he said. “It’s jobs and real cash! In the pockets of damn nearly everyone lives in this county of Santa Barbara! It’s sixteen A-rated investors on this, to the tune of ten million dollars and a boatload of tourists from everywhere. It’s a new Hollywood. People gonna come up from all over, by God, bringing money just to be a part of this big picture. Last thing they want to hear about is some silly cop going ‘bronco’ with a six-shooter over a dead redskin. So, you need to stand down, Creek, and get the hell out of the policeman business. Go back into whatever you don’t plant very well out here. Am I crystal clear about this, son?”
Creek looked at Ranny and knew the damage was done. He turned to the men, took out his wallet, pulled out the silver badge, flicked it at Rasmussen, who reached for it awkwardly. He missed, and it fell to the ground. Jewel walked to it, picked it up, and gave it to Warren.
“And the guns,” Rasmussen said.
“Not yours to take,” Creek said.
Rasmussen looked over at the judge.
“They’re Creek’s. To keep,” Warren said.
“Understand,” said Warren to Creek, “if I hear of any more shenanigans or reprisals, we will have words. You are no longer the law, but under the law. Capisce?”
Creek looked at the judge and tried to speak evenly without scaring Ranny.
“You tell this windy mouthed politician and his boyfriend Diamond, they ever come onto my ranch again, like he did in May, trying to pry me from it, there will not be flesh wounds. You tell him he ever sends a squad of dandies flashing iron and talking bravado to my land or reservation land, there will not be flesh wounds. And you tell this foreign-born goat-fucking immigrant he ever uses the word redskin in my presence, I will make it so his tongue never mangles the English language again. Is this completely clear?”
Creek faced Rasmussen now, bearing down on him, thinking he looked headed for a stroke as he tried to speak but could not.
“Horst!” Warren yelled. “Not another word. Not one. He’s been warned. Now get in your cars, every one of you, and drive away.”
Slowly, they moved off. Most of them stole a last look at Ranny, then got into their cars and drove off. Judge Warren lingered for a bit, standing at his car door. He was looking at Creek.
“I know you. From your record. The hook’s in deep on Diamond, but the boat makes it an accident.”
“You know it was Pony’s boat?”
“Harbor master seen him in it. Had his things in it.”
“Tore up? The hull, the mast?”
“Very much. Run up on boulders stacked at the south end of Padaro beach. Amazing it didn’t sink sooner, amount of water in it. And the holes.”
“And Pony’s things and the frayed wire that doesn’t match any other wire, they got back into the boat, let’s see, before or after it made shore?”
Judge Warren thought about this.
“No head, Delbert,” Creek said. “No autopsy. No witnesses. Some profoundly strange bruises.”
“Okay. All right. Jesus.” Warren tossed him the badge. “Prove it or drop it. But no more fireworks.”
“I had a badge up there, Judge, when those boys came. There were
women and children. Unarmed people. It might have turned out different. They weren’t looking to chat. They were looking to browbeat. The two thugs were looking for more, if I hadn’t poached them. Sitting in the back of the car with enough thug guns to kill half the tribe.”
“No more fireworks, or give me back the badge.”
Creek held onto the badge. Warren nodded.
“Say hello to Penbrook and Sonora,” Warren said. “You find the head, you come to me. You find new evidence, you come straight to me. You have until the damn trial date or the day that movie starts. After that, this game is over. I don’t care who murdered whom, I got a town to look after, and there’s no turning the herd once they’re out of this pen, headed for this big payday movie bonanza.”
Creek grinned and watched Warren smile up at Ranny.
“Miss Starbuck. A real pleasure. I knew your mother. I’m sorry she’s gone. I know how close you were.”
She nodded. “Thank you.”
They watched as Warren ducked into his seat, fired up the big Cadillac and drove away. Creek saw him vanish over the hill, and when the dust went off skyward, he turned to her. She had moved to the railing and was standing, arms folded, looking out to sea. He didn’t know what to do or say, so he kept quiet. Finally, she spoke.
“You shot three men? Actually shot them?”
“Well, two. Took minor wounds.”
“Boys? This was just yesterday?”
“It happened a little different than it sounds like it happened.”
“And then you shot at the plane.”
He knew this would end badly. She turned and looked at him without warmth.
“Shot men with a gun, and nothing about it in your face or manner when I come to see you? You act like nothing happened? How can that be?”
He didn’t have a good answer for that.
“If that is who you are, who you can be, I feel stupid for misjudging you.”
She waited, but he wouldn’t speak. She turned and walked down the porch stairs and across the yard to her car. She paused at the door.
“Who was he to you?” she asked.
“The Indian, Pony?”
“Why do you care so much?”
“The one person all these fools can kick the stuffing out of, and not one man will raise a finger to stop it or say it’s wrong.”
“And now, apparently, it was an accident?”
“Sure, just like it was for the guy who killed him and rigged the boat to make it look otherwise, just like a big Hollywood crime scene.”
She looked at him without flinching; trying to see past her new appraisal, but when she turned and got into her car, he could not tell what she had been thinking.
As she drove off, he thought, she will be gone for good now.
It made him wish he’d shot those reservation boosters dead. Shot down the plane in flames and watched it sink into the sea. Put his knuckles to the broad jaw of Horst Rasmussen and parted him from his too-bright teeth – all of it building a sourness he would need to let go of fast, if he wanted keep to the right road.
Tune in next week for Chapter Ten of Last Light in Paradise.
Michael C. Armour is author and original artist of bestselling Smithsonian children’s books Orca Song and Puma Range, and has been an award-winning writer/director for CBS documentaries, and many print and TV commercials for Honda and other companies. He comes from three generations of ranching, has been a horseman and motorcyclist most of his life, and has worked for years with released inmates under the direction of the Santa Barbara Superior Court and the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office.
Scan the QR code to purchase the full book online, or pick one up at your local bookstore: Tecolote in Montecito, Godmothers in Summerland, or Chaucer’s in Santa Barbara.
Westmont Theater Arts Department on March 5 in Porter Theatre. The event, made possible through a grant from the Towbes Fund for the Performing Arts, brought students from La Colina, Santa Barbara and La Cumbre Junior High schools as well as Santa Barbara High to a live performance, many for the first time.
“We kind of forget this, but a lot of kids today are still coming out of COVID and most didn’t have field trips in elementary school,” says Rich Lashua, theater arts teacher at Santa Barbara Junior High School. “This is the first live performance some of them have been allowed to see. I am also a big believer in arts education, and since Westmont is in our backyard, this is an example of a school they could go to someday and continue to pursue their arts education, if this is what they enjoy.”
Towbes Foundation grants have allowed Westmont to invite young students to see Romeo & Juliet in 2024 and the Fringe Festival in 2025. “Last year’s season-wide K-12 student outreach experiment confirmed our beliefs that the arts are an essential part of childhood education and contain stories that need to be shared,” says Jonathan Hicks, who chairs the Westmont theater arts department. “Through artistic activities, children gain new ways to express themselves and
learn to appreciate the world, leading to the holistic development of well-rounded individuals.”
Hicks sent each class a pre-show summary, which included theater etiquette and vocabulary to help the students understand and retain the content.
“I’m a big fan of building connections with other groups in our community, and so hopefully this run with Westmont is just kind of the beginning of a great new relationship,” Lashua said.
Student filmmakers from around the world are invited to submit their work for the 4th annual Montecito Student Film Festival, taking place Saturday, Nov. 14, at Westmont College in Montecito. The festival’s call for entries opened March 1, and submissions will be accepted through midnight on June 1.
The festival aims to empower the next generation of storytellers while building connections between students and film industry professionals. “The festival allows students to gain experience, build a professional portfolio, receive feedback and connect with industry professionals and peers who can help shape their careers,” says Jonathan Hicks, chair of Westmont’s theater arts and film studies. “I’m excited for this year’s festival because it provides a stage for students to showcase their work to a wider audience and potentially catch the eye of talent scouts, studios, and larger film circuits, as well as students’ exposure to diverse storytelling techniques and cinematic styles from around the world, broadening their perspectives. Finally, student films reflect a wide spectrum of human experiences from different backgrounds and cultures that may be underrepresented in mainstream cinema.”
Filmmakers may submit up to two films via FilmFreeway with required augmenting materials, including a synopsis, cast and crew list, and still images.
NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND PENDING ACTION BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT TO:
WAIVE THE PUBLIC HEARING ON A COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT THAT MAY BE APPEALED TO THE CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION AND APPROVE, CONDITIONALLY APPROVE, OR DENY THE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
This may affect your property. Please read.
Notice is hereby given that an application for the project described below has been submitted to the Santa Barbara County Pla nning and Development Department. This project requires the approval and issuance of a Coastal Development Permit by the Planning a nd Development Department.
The development requested by this application is subject to appeal to the California Coastal Commission following final actio n by Santa Barbara County and therefore a public hearing on the application is normally required prior to any action to approve, conditionally approve or deny the application. However, in compliance with California Coastal Act Section 30624.9, the Director has determined that this project qualifies as minor deve lopment and therefore intends to waive the public hearing requirement unless a written request for such hearing is submitted by an interested party to the Planning and Development Department within the 15 working days following the Date of Notice listed below. All requests for a hearing must be submitted no later t han 5:00 p.m. on the Request for Hearing Expiration Date listed below, to Keanna Lam at Planning and Development, 123 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara 93101 -2058, by email at lamk@countyofsb.org, or by fax at (805) 568-2030. If a public hearing is requested, notice of such a hearing will be provided.
WARNING: Failure by a person to request a public hearing may result in the loss of the person’s ability to appeal any action taken by Santa Barbara County on this Coastal Development Permit to the Montecito Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors and u ltimately the California Coastal Commission.
If a request for public hearing is not received by 5:00 p.m. on the Request for Hearing Expiration Date listed below, then the Planning and Development Department will act to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the request for a Coastal Development P ermit. At this time it is not known when this action may occur; however, this may be the only notice you receive for this project. To receive additional information regarding this pr oject, including the date the Coastal Development Permit is approved, and/or to view the application and plans, or to provide comments on the project, please contact Keanna Lam at Planning and Development, 123 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara 93101-2058, or by email at lamk@countyofsb.org, or by phone at (805) 568-2074.
PROPOSAL: DIXON ADDITION
PROJECT ADDRESS: 1395 GREENWORTH PL, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93108 1st SUPERVISORIAL DISTRICT
THIS PROJECT IS LOCATED IN THE COASTAL ZONE
DATE OF NOTICE: 3/19/2026
REQUEST FOR HEARING EXPIRATION DATE: 4/9/2026
PERMIT NUMBER: 25CDH-00039
APPLICATION FILED: 10/2/2025
009-190-011
ZONING: 20-R-1
PROJECT AREA: 0.41
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Applicant: Dixon, Lee
Proposed Project:
The project is a request for a Coastal Development Permit to allow for an interior remodel of 700 square feet and an addition of a new 60-square-foot laundry room to the existing single-family dwelling. The project will require less than 50 cubic yards of cut and fill. No trees are proposed for removal. The parcel will be served by the Montecito Water District, the Montecito Sanitary District, and the Montecito Fire Protection District. Access w ill continue to be provided off of Greenworth Place. The property is a 0.41-acre parcel zoned 20- R-2 and shown as Assessor's Parcel Number 009-190-011, located at 1395 Greenworth Place in the Montecito Community Plan Area, First Supervisorial District.
APPEALS:
The decision of the Director of the Planning and Development Department to approve, conditionally approve, or deny this Coast al Development Permit 25CDH-00039 may be appealed to the Montecito Planning Commission by the applicant or an aggrieved person. The appeal must be filed within the 10 calendar days following the date that the Director takes action on this Coastal Development Permit. To qualify as an "aggrieved person " the appellant must have, in person or through a representative, informed the Planning and Development Department by appropriate means prior to the decision on the Coastal Development Permit of the nature of their concerns, or, for good cause, was unable to do so.
Appeals must be filed with the Planning and Development Department online at https://aca-prod.accela.com/sbco/Default.aspx, by 5:00 p.m. within the timeframe identified above. In the event that the last day for filing an appeal falls on a non -business day of the County, the appeal may be timely filed on the next business day.
This Coastal Development Permit may be appealed to the California Coastal Commission after an appellant has exhausted all loc al appeals, therefore a fee is not required to file an appeal.
MONTECITO PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
DATE OF HEARING: APRIL 1, 2026
PLACE: PLANNING COMMISSION HEARING ROOM 123 E. ANAPAMU STREET, RM. 17 SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The following methods of participation are available to the public.
1. You may observe the live stream of the Montecito Planning Commission meetings on (1) Local Cable Channel 20, (2) online at: https://www.countyofsb.org/1333/CSBTV-Livestream; or (3) YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/user/CSBTV20
2. If you wish to provide public comment, the following methods are available:
• Distribution to the Montecito Planning Commission - Submit your comment via email prior to 12:00 p.m. on the Friday prior to the Commission hearing. Please submit your comment to the Recording Secretary at dvillalo@countyofsb.org. Your comment will be placed into t he record and distributed appropriately.
• Attend the Meeting In-Person: Individuals are allowed to attend and provide comments at the Montecito Planning Commission meeting in-person.
• Attend the Meeting by Zoom Webinar - Individuals wishing to provide public comment during the Montecito Planning Commission meeting can do so via Zoom webinar by clicking the below link to register in advance. Register in advance for this meeting: After registerin g, you will receive a confirmation email containing important information about joining the webinar.
When: April 1, 2026 09:00 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Topic: Montecito Planning Commission 04/01/2026
Register in advance for this webinar: https://santabarbaracounty.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_FYPcCH4dR3uKI8zATrn1EQ
OR PARTICIPATE VIA TELEPHONE:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
(Toll Free) or
475 4499 (Toll Free) or
Webinar ID: 160 768 9520
(Toll Free) or
(Toll Free)
The Commission’s rules on hearings and public comment, unless otherwise directed by the Chair, remain applicable to each of t he participation methods listed above.
The Montecito Planning Commission hearing begins at 9:00 a.m. The order of items listed on the agenda is subject to change by the Montecito Planning Commission. Anyone interested in this matter is invited to speak in support or in opposition to the project s. Written comments are also welcome. All letters should be addressed to the Montecito Planning Commission, 123 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, California, 93101. Letters, with nine copies, and computer materials, e.g. PowerPoint presentations, should be filed with the secretary of the Planning Commission no later than 12:00 P.M. on the Friday before the Montecito Planning Commission hearing. The decision to accept late materials will be at the discretion of the Montecito Planning Commission.
Maps and/or staff analysis of the proposals may be reviewed at https://www.countyofsb.org/plndev/hearings/mpc.sbc or by appointment by calling (805) 5682000.
If you challenge the project 25AMD-00011 in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence to the Montecito Planning Commission prior to the pub lic hearing.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this hearing, please contact the Hearing Support Staff (805) 568-2000. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the hearing will enable the Hearing Supp ort Staff to make reasonable arrangements.
25AMD-00011
1260 BB Property, LLC Development Plan Amendment
1260 Channel Drive Exempt, CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301 and 15303. Nicole Lieu, Supervising Planner (805) 884-8068 Henry Wakamiya, Planner (805) 568-3017
Hearing on the request of 1260 BB Property, LLC, Property Owner and Applicant, to consider the following:
Bids open at 2:00 PM on Thursday, April 16, 2026 for:
SANTA CLAUS LANE STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT - PHASE 2 FROM PADARO LANE TO 1400' SOUTH OF PADARO LANEN IN THE 1ST SUPERVISORIAL DISTRICT
COUNTY PROJECT No. 720864
General project work description: Road Improvements, reinforced concrete retaining walls, timber and plastic lumber boardwalk, driven concrete piles, rock slope protection, pedestrian railroad at-grade crossing, landscape and irrigation
The Plans, Specifications, and Bid Book are available at https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal.cfm?CompanyID=43874
The Contractor must have either a Class A license or any combination of the following Class C licenses which constitutes a ma jority of the work: C-8, C-12, C-13, C-31, C-50, C-51
Submit sealed bids to the web address below. Bids will be opened and available at the web address below immediately following the submittal deadline.
PlanetBids
https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal.cfm?CompanyID=43874
Complete the project work within 220 Workings Days
The estimated cost of the project is $ 9,590,000. The available Project Budget for base bid and additive bid items is $10,500,000.
An optional pre-bid meeting is scheduled for this project on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the southeast corner of the Santa Claus Ln and Padaro Ln intersection. This project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR).
A contractor or subcontractor shall not be qualified to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal, subject to the requirements of PCC Section 4104, or engage in the performance of any contract for public work, as defined in this chapter, unless currently registe red and qualified to perform public work pursuant to Labor Code (LAB) Section 1725.5. It is not a violation of this section for an unregistered contractor to submit a bid that is authorized by Business and Professions Code (BPC) Section 7029.1 or by PCC Section 10164 or 20103.5 provided the contractor is registered to perform public work pursuant to LAB Section 1725.5 at the time the contract is awarded.
Prevailing wages are required on this Contract. The Director of the California Department of Industrial Relations determines the general prevailing wage rates. Obtain the wage rates at the DIR website https://www.dir.ca.gov/
Inquiries or questions based on alleged patent ambiguity of the plans, specifications, or estimate must be submitted as a bidder inquiry by 2:00 PM on 04/09/2026. Submittals after this date will not be addressed. Questions pertaining to this Project prior to Award of the Contract must be submitted via PlanetBids Q&A.
Bidders (Plan Holders of Record) will be notified by electronic mail if addendums are issued. The addendums, if issued, will only be available on the County’s PlanetBids website, https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal.cfm?CompanyID=43874
By order of the Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Barbara this project was authorized to be advertised on 06/04/2019
Christopher Sneddon Director of Public Works
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE GIVING LIST, 1206 Coast Village Circle, Suite G, Santa Barbara, CA 93108. MONTECITO JOURNAL MEDIA GROUP, LLC, 1206 Coast Village Circle, Suite G, Santa Barbara, CA 93108. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on March 16, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL).
FBN No. 2026-0000658. Published March 19, 26, April 2, 9, 2026
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME: CASE No. 25CV07616. To all interested par-
ties: Petitioner BENJAMIN PARKER filed a petition with Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara, for a decree changing name to BENJAMIN VALENTIN PARKER. 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. Filed February 24, 2026 by Terri Chavez. Hearing date: April 17, 2026 at 10 am in Dept. 4, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Published March 12, 19, 26, and April 2, 2026
AMENDED PLANTIFF’S CLAIM AND ORDER TO GO TO SMALL CLAIMS: CASE No. 25CV06178. Notice to Defendant: John Coons: You are being sued by Plaintiff: Danielle Loveall in the amount of $12,500.00. You and the plaintiff must go to court on April 6, 2026 at 9 am in Department 3 of the Superior Court of California, Santa Barbara, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. If you do not go to court, you may lose the case. If you lose, the court can order that your wages, money, or property be taken
to pay this claim. Bring witnesses, receipts, and any evidence you need to prove your case. Name and address of the court: Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 931211107. Filed March 6, 2026 by Sarah Sisto, Deputy Clerk. Published March 12, 19, 26, and April 2, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ANCORA OSTERIA, 1483 EAST VALLEY ROAD, SUITE 20, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93108. EAST VALLEY FOUR INC, PO BOX 5841, MONTECITO, CA 93108. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on February 26, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it
March 19 and March 26, 2026
was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2026-0000501. Published March 12, 19, 26, and April 2, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PARTERRE; PARTERRE COFFEE, 220 W GUTIERREZ ST, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101. TERRACOTTA COFFEE LLC, 2108 N ST #14035, SACRAMENTO, CA 95816. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on March 3, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my of-
fice. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2026-0000518. Published March 5, 12, 19, 26, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT: The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SEA VIEW LANDSCAPING, 1028 CRAMER RD APT A, Carpinteria, CA 93013. RODRIGO CRUZ CORTEZ, 1028 CRAMER RD APT A, Carpinteria, CA 93013. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Barbara County on January 23, 2026. This statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the Office of the County Clerk. I hereby certify that this is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. Joseph E. Holland, County Clerk (SEAL). FBN No. 2026-0000180. Published February 26, March 5, 12, 19, 2026
Sternin and Fraser spent some time contemplating what a musical propelled by tunes of that era might look like.
“That was the time that we went to college and then set up to create our lives,” he said. “It made us think about where the time had gone and how we got to where we are today.”
Added Fraser: “We thought we were never going to get old and now we’re all old. We thought we were going to save the world. And for a minute there, we thought we had.”
With tongue only slightly in cheek, Sternin also explained that the four main characters actually represent portions of their own personalities.
“One of the two male characters is an egomaniac and the other is a band nerd. I was both. One of the females is the hottest girl in freshman year, and the other one is so smart that it’s unbelievable. Pru is both.”
But while the real life couple who wrote the show have spent half a century happily tied together – moving from Massachusetts to Los Angeles to pursue careers in the arts and working together nearly the entire time – the musical’s characters have a few more trials and tribulations; punctuated, of course, with triumphs. These are moments that turn out to be turning points in their lives. Eventually, the moral is finding the one thing that matters most: somebody to love.
The show is set to the music that provided both soundtrack and zeitgeist to that generation, selections including “Dance to the Music,” “Call Me,” “Some Kind of Wonderful,” “Feel Like Making Love,” “Locomotive Breath,” and “Taking It to the Street.” Somebody to Love is seasoned with other era-redolent songs by Billy Joel, Little River Band, Chicago, and Earth, Wind and Fire.
“We picked the songs based on their being well-known, but also on the lyrics telling the story,” Sternin said. “We wanted it to be like these songs were written for the show, not just dropped in for no reason.”
Rehearsals were mildly revelatory, Fraser said.
“We’re watching them do a scene and then start singing and we’re thinking, ‘These lyrics are just so perfect.’ It’s almost surprising.”
What’s also been eye-opening, Sternin said, has been working with the cast –a large ensemble that boasts a bevy of Broadway musical credits including Spring Awakening, The Book of Mormon, Wicked, Avenue Q, Motown the Musical, and many others – and feeling the age gap.
“We lived the first part of these people’s lives in the show, when the rock guitarist is at Venice Beach with the roller skaters and bodybuilders,” he said. “It’s really weird being at least as old as the parents of our entire cast. They’re always asking us
what it was like back then.”
But to be clear, Somebody to Love isn’t a nostalgic trip down memory lane, Fraser said.
“It’s a story about a man’s search for meaning in his life,” she said. “It’s funny and there’s lots of great music. But it could be about any time and place.”
Somebody to Love , with book by Sternin & Fraser and directed by Daniels, plays at the Rubicon Theatre’s Karyn Jackson Theater in Ventura March 25-April 19. www.rubicontheatre.org
On the Boards: ‘Bodies’ Bounds Back Massage therapist, healer, writer and artist Cynthia Waring will be performing Bodies Unbound, a one-woman theater show based on her book of the same name. The performance piece has energized stages from her hometown to New York City and stems from her experience as a massage therapist. Having given tens of thousands of massages over the years, honing her innate ability to detect the trauma and other emotional troubles that lie beneath physical problems. The shows are in the afternoon of March 21 & 28 at Fine Line Gallery in La Cumbre Plaza. Visit https://bodiesunbound.com and RSVP to cynthiawaring22@gmail.com.
SBCC Theatre Group’s production of A Small Family Business, Alan Ayckbourn’s hit dark satire on greed and moral corruption centered around Margaret Thatcher’s Britain of the 1980s, winds up its run at the Garvin Theatre with performances through March 21. Katie Laris directs the dramedy that has been praised as one of Ayckbourn’s best works.
As often happens, select Oscar-winning movies head back to theaters in the wake of
the awards, but now a number of them will be playing in SBIFF’s own McHurley Film Center downtown. Re-opening on the big screen on Friday, March 20, are One Battle After Another, whose five award-winners (six Oscars) were all part of the festival in February; Sinners, which nabbed two statues for SBIFF attendees; Sentimental Value, whose director Joachim Trier charmed us on stage; and surprise feature documentary winner Mr. Nobody Against Putin, which did not play at SBIFF’s February fest.
SBIFF has announced that the organization will be showing filmed live performances from the Royal National Theatre in London that are part of the National Theatre Live series. The monthly screenings will take place at SBIFF’s Riviera Theatre starting April 25 with All My Sons, starring Bryan Cranston and Marianne JeanBaptiste. What this means for the Ensemble Theatre, which has screened a couple of the National Theatre Live shows this season, is up in the air. Visit www.sbiff.org.
Elsewhere, the Alcazar Theatre is hosting a preview event for A War on Childhood, which is both a feature documentary still in production and a community impact campaign led by Santa Barbara County firefighter-paramedic and filmmaker Martin Papazian. The film examines the up-to-the-minute hot button topic of the rapid transformation of childhood due to the influence of smartphones, social media and artificial intelligence, and the likely linked historic rise in youth anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide. Driven by his sense of civic duty, first responder Papazian tries his hand at documentary filmmaking to awaken and inspire parents, joining forces with pediatricians, child psychologists, researchers, educators and families working to reclaim and protect the next generation. The free preview event is being underwritten by the Natalie Orfalea Foundation, takes place on March 21, and includes a panel discussion with Papazian and others.
“ You will remember this novel–its hero and characters and scenes–for a long time. A big-hearted story of desperation and courage, crime and redemption, love and loss–it is as entertaining as it is moving.
by Steven Libowitz
THURSDAY, MARCH 19-SUNDAY, MARCH 22
Viva Las Cafeteras – Born and raised in the area East of the Los Angeles River, famed spawning ground of Los Lobos half a century ago, Las Cafeteras similarly combines cultures to create a sound all their own. The sextet remixes roots music as modern-day troubadours in a sonic explosion of Afro-Mexican rhythms, electronic beats and powerful rhymes. Using traditional Son Jarocho instruments including the jarana, requinto, quijada (donkey jawbone), and tarima (a wooden platform to which dancing feet make a percussion instrument), Las Cafeteras sing in English, Spanish, and Spanglish, adding elements that range from rock to hip-hop to rancheras. The group has previously performed for the UCSB Arts & Lectures-sponsored ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! series of free community concerts spread across the country to reflect the area’s growing Latino culture. But this weekend’s visit as part of the 20th anniversary season has a special significance in the current climate, as Las Cafeteras use music as a vehicle to build bridges between different cultures and communities – sharing stories seeking love and justice in the concrete jungle of Los Angeles and working toward “a world where many worlds fit.” The four performances and school programs kick off their spring tour mostly hitting West Coast cities, but also mixing in a few dates in the Midwest. Those represent a return to the region just weeks after Las Cafeteras performed in Minnesota at a memorial for the slain anti-ICE protester Renée Good as part of the “Bring the Heat, Melt the Ice” solidarity show. On the band’s Facebook page, the new “Canto Sin Miedo” tour (“Singing without fear”) invokes the idea that “The time now is NOT for fear but for solidarity. We can’t wait to share the joy, resistance and canto with you.” Viva indeed!
WHEN: 7 pm Thursday-Saturday, 6 pm Sunday
WHERE: Carpinteria Veterans Memorial Building, 941 Walnut Ave, Carpinteria (Thursday); Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Road (Friday); Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo Street, Guadalupe (Saturday); Marjorie Luke Theatre at Santa Barbara Junior High, 721 East Cota St. (Sunday)
COST: free
INFO: https://artsandlectures.ucsb.edu/learn/viva-el-arte-de-santa-barbara
FRIDAY, MARCH 20
Beethoven 32’ Gets Down to Brass Tacks – Camerata Pacifica’s “Beethoven 32” initiative, its three-year Beethoven cycle featuring Swiss-born American pianist Gilles Vonsattel performing all 32 of Beethoven’s piano sonatas, kicks into high gear with the first solo piano recital of the cycle. Vonsattel will tackle Beethoven’s celebrated “Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13 ‘Pathetique;’” the intense “Piano Sonata No. 13 in E-flat Major, Op. 27, No. 1, ‘Sonata quasi una fantasia;’” “Piano Sonata No. 12 in A-flat Major, Op. 26,” the third movement of which was played during Beethoven’s own funeral procession; and the tempestuous “Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57, ‘Appassionata,’” another audience favorite. It’s Ludwig writ large in all his pianistic glory. WHEN: 7 pm
WHERE: Hahn Hall, Music Academy campus, 1070 Fairway Road COST: $75: INFO: (805) 884-8410 or www.cameratapacifica.org
FRIDAY, MARCH 20
‘Eight Is Enough’ – We’ll try not to be longwinded in explaining that this event has nothing to do with the old 1970s-’80s TV series, but rather a performance of wind music in the Noon Concerts at Trinity series – which has a total duration of approximately half of the sitcom’s episodes. The subtitle of “One Century of Wind Music” refers to the program performed by eight musicians, an itinerary boasting selections from Stravinsky’s rarely heard “Octet for Winds” including “Fanfare for a New Theatre” for two trumpets, “Lied Ohne Name” for two bassoons, and “Pour Pablo Picasso” for solo clarinet. Also on the bill: Michael Davis’ “Trombone Institute of Technology” (title courtesy Charlie Watts, drummer for the Rolling Stones) and the second-ever performance of Melissa Manchester’s “The Suite By and By, and By.” The trio for flute, clarinet and bassoon, which debuted in Beverly Hills in January and represents the singer-songwriter’s second classical composition, pays tribute to her father David Manchester, who was second bassoonist of the MET Orchestra from 1951-1976. The opening few measures of the first movement of her suite are based on her dad’s daily warm up. WHEN: 12:15 pm
WHERE: Trinity Episcopal Church, 1500 State St. COST: free INFO: www.facebook.com/p/Noon-Concerts-at-Trinity-Santa-Barbara-100082320947293/
SUNDAY, MARCH 22
Griffin and Bear It – A whole lot has happened with comedian-actress Kathy Griffin since the last time the roaring redhead romped at the Granada Theatre in April 2017. Among the highlights: Just a month later she was terminated
Escape to Orchid Eden – The Santa Barbara International Orchid Show reaches the ripe old age of 78, but rather than rest on its, ahem, laurels as one of the oldest, largest and most prestigious orchid shows in the United States, the annual exhibition and sale continues to expand its offerings well past its original, ahem, roots. The storied orchid show encompasses artwork, educational programs, a massive sales area, and striking new displays that feature truly spectacular settings for a wide range of exotic orchid species and hybrids that serve as living works of art. The events actually get underway before the official opening, with Orchid Serenity: Yoga & Sound Bath on Thursday, March 19. Boasting a gentle, all-levels 45-minute yoga flow led by SB Beach Yoga, that flow will morph into a deeply relaxing sound bath led by Danielle Elese featuring harmonic bowls, vocals, and guided meditation – all with stunning sights and spectacular scents to provide additional sensory experiences. Orchids After Dark is the official opening night celebration on Friday, March 20, an after-hours party featuring immersive lighting, a live DJ, and cash bar, allowing guests to experience the show from a whole new perspective. The much quieter Orchid Escape Dinner on Saturday, March 21, is a unique culinary experience inside the orchid-filled oasis – a four-course dinner prepared by Chef Amy Baer of Epicurean SB with a menu curated to reflect the elegance and artistry of the orchid environment with soft lighting and gentle music enhancing the ambience. Back for a second year, the show now offers VIP Guided Tours featuring an up-close look at the show’s winning orchids in an immersive and informative journey led by an American Orchid Society member. Or course, you don’t have to partake in any special events to bask in the bliss of the beautiful flowers at this year’s show, whose theme is Orchid Escape. All are invited inside to explore the fascinating complexity and exquisite beauty of orchids, the largest plant family on the planet, many of which find an ideal home here in the temperate climate of the Southern California coast. Admission also includes frequent opportunities to learn about orchid caretaking through grower demonstrations, and expert tips including repotting techniques, orchid trivia, greenhouse cultivation tips, and creative floral design that take place every 30 mins in the demonstration tent. And of course, entry also gets you into the vendor hall where you can purchase orchids grown both here in Santa Barbara and around the world.
WHEN: 9 am-5 pm March 20-22
WHERE: Earl Warren Showgrounds, 3400 Calle Real
COST: $22-$31
INFO: (805) 687-0766/https://earlwarren.com or www.sborchidshow.com/
from CNN’s New Year’s Eve broadcast after showing pictures of herself holding a bloody severed head resembling Donald Trump. She was diagnosed with Stage I lung cancer in August 2021, leading to surgery where half her left lung was removed. She’s continued to offend countless celebrities and other famous folk with her unedited outbursts. And she underwent her third facelift in 2025, just another notch in her life’s milestones alongside divorces and career challenges. The latter episode of personal rejuvenation gives Griffin the theme for her upcoming series of appearances, “New Face, New Tour.” The provocateur – a two-time Emmy and Grammy Award-winner whose résumé includes a record-breaking 20 stand-up specials and the iconic Bravo series My Life on the D-List – returns to the Granada with her fearless, bold, and unfiltered comedy that’s not for the faint of heart.
WHEN: 7 pm
WHERE: Granada Theatre, 1214 State Street
COST: $42-$62
INFO: (805) 899-2222 or www.granadasb.org
SUNDAY, MARCH 22
Revels Pub Sing – Santa Barbara Revels always invites a decent amount of audience participation in its annual Winter Solstice shows at the Lobero Theatre, what with sing-alongs and other join-ins as well as marching out for intermission in conjunction with the cast. But its 18th annual March Madness event is one where the crowd coming along for the ride is more or less mandatory, as the whole point of Revels Pub Sing is to join in the merry mayhem by raising your voices – and lifting your glasses – to celebrate the upcoming vernal equinox in delightful song. Returning Revels music director and song leader Dauri Kennedy and keyboardist Andrew Manos are once again on tap at the Creekside Restaurant & Bar to offer up Irish tunes, sea shanties, familiar folk songs and traditional favorites that are easy to sing. Making the job even simpler, songbooks are provided as part of admission, meaning you just need to bring your voice and your willingness to sing along, although that part is optional, too; merely listening is just fine. (Drinks and food from Creekside’s palate-pleasing menu might loosen up the inhibitions about singing in public.) New this year: The music continues for two more hours with karaoke, giving anyone who’s still feeling inspired a chance to take the mic and keep the celebration going.
WHEN: 4-6 pm (karaoke 6-8 pm)
WHERE: Creekside Restaurant & Bar, 4444 Hollister Ave.
COST: $15 general, $10 students
INFO: (805) 364-4630 or www.santabarbararevels.org
This entertainment calendar is a subjective sampling of arts and entertainment events taking place in the Santa Barbara area for the next seven days or so. It is by no means comprehensive. Please also see my feature stories elsewhere in this issue for more events. In order to be considered for inclusion in this calendar, please submit information – including hi-res photos –by 12 noon Wednesday eight days prior to publication date. Email: slibowitz@yahoo.com.
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The year 1926 marked the birth of two visionaries who would forever transform the sound of American music. A century later, these performances honor their enduring legacy and the revolutionary spirit that still resonates through jazz.
Miles and Coltrane at 100
Sun, Apr 12 / 7 PM
UCSB Campbell Hall
“One of the finest piano players to emerge in decades.”
All About Jazz
“[A] piano virtuoso with a delicate touch, assured, swaggering swing feel, and debonair flow.”
The New York Times
Miles Davis and John Coltrane Centennial
Wed, Apr 8 (new date) / 7:30 PM
Granada Theatre
“[Terence Blanchard’s] succinct solos are always filled with the right amount of rhythmic crackle and subtle nuance.”
JazzTimes
“John Coltrane’s saxophonist son puts a clear distance between his own work and his late father’s by often playing spry and subtly crafted lines in a murmur rather than unleashing cloudbursts of sound.”
The Guardian (U.K.)
