Community Calendar

Jorge “Chucho” Hernandez, a Chula Vista-born artist and former Santa Maria resident, will open “Perspective,” a solo exhibition at Indah Gallery in Santa Ynez, on Thursday, August 27.

Working in oil on canvas and wood, Hernandez creates elaborate narrative paintings that use unexpected viewpoints and forced perspective to place viewers inside scenes involving cultural memory, spirituality, popular culture and contemporary life. Some of his major pieces take two to three years to complete.

The opening reception will be held Thursday, August 27, from 5–7 p.m. The exhibition continues August 28 through September 20, with an artist’s talk on Saturday, September 19 at 3 p.m.

Hernandez is available for an interview, and high-resolution artwork, installation photographs and additional background materials are available.

Indah Gallery
2190 N. Refugio Road
Santa Ynez, California
https://chuchoart.com
https://www.indahgallery.org/

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a88f8cin41cXNEOVSTbYgM5_IQ1nPheC/view?usp=sharing

Thank you for considering this local arts story.

Everyone loves ice cream but, how much do you really know about America's favorite frozen treat? Join ice cream enthusiast Andy Binsley for a fun, informative, and delicious journey through the fascinating world of ice cream.

This interactive presentation explores the rich history of ice cream, from its ancient beginnings to today's premium artisan creations. You'll discover how ice cream is made, what distinguishes premium ice cream from gelato, frozen custard, sorbet, and other frozen desserts, and learn the science behind its smooth texture and irresistible flavor. Along the way, we'll discuss how to evaluate ice cream quality like an expert, examine current health and nutrition topics, and explore the environmental and social issues surrounding dairy and frozen desserts.

Of course, no lecture about ice cream would be complete without tasting it! Participants will sample a variety of frozen treats while learning what makes each one unique. The program also includes surprising facts, unusual flavors from around the world, entertaining stories, and plenty of opportunities for questions and discussion.

Whether you're an occasional ice cream fan or a devoted connoisseur, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for one of the world's most beloved desserts and, perhaps, discover a new favorite flavor.

The Fifty and Better (FAB) program was designed for people ages 50 and older, seeking intellectual stimulation through university level courses — without the pressure of grades — for the sake of learning and social engagement.

A story that has stirred hearts for generations is coming to the stage in Thousand Oaks.

This October 9 – 18, experience the passion, power, and unforgettable music of Les Misérables. From the soaring anthem "One Day More" to the heartfelt ballads "I Dreamed a Dream," "On My Own," and "Bring Him Home," this epic tale of love, sacrifice, redemption, and revolution remains one of the most celebrated musicals of all time.

Join us October 1-31, 2026 for an entire month of BRAND NEW vegan options all over Santa Barbara, CA!
During this time, restaurants throughout the Santa Barbara area will feature special vegan menu items. Diners have the opportunity to go out, enjoy meals, review/rate menus, and post photos of the delicious vegan meals they have ordered.

To view a list of current participants/menus visit veganchefchallenge.org/santabarbara

Since 2007, UCSB Reads has fostered a shared sense of belonging by bringing the UCSB campus and Santa Barbara communities together to read a common book that explores compelling issues of our time. Conceived by then Executive Vice Chancellor Gene Lucas, the program is led by the UCSB Library in collaboration with campus and community partners. Each year, a committee of UCSB faculty, students, staff, and community members selects a thought-provoking, interdisciplinary book written by a living author that encourages a wide range of readers to engage with a contemporary social, political, cultural or scientific issue such as climate change, racial justice, technology, memory, identity, and democracy.

The program kicks off in winter with a book giveaway for UCSB students led by the Chancellor, Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, and University Librarian, and culminates with a free public talk by the book’s author(s) at Campbell Hall in the spring. Throughout the winter and spring quarters, the Library sponsors a variety of free learning, experiential, and social events to explore the book’s themes. The selected book is also incorporated into the university curriculum for winter and spring, allowing students to explore its themes in an academic context. UCSB Reads is generously supported by many individuals, university departments, and organizations.

This exhibition highlights the history of UCSB Reads since its inception, featuring promotional posters, selected books, custom bookmarks along with testimonials and images of participants engaging with programming throughout the years. UCSB Reads has become a beloved campus tradition that brings together thousands of people every year and demonstrates the power of literature to bridge divides, promote intellectual engagement, and build community.

Jorge “Chucho” Hernandez, a Chula Vista-born artist and former Santa Maria resident, will open “Perspective,” a solo exhibition at Indah Gallery in Santa Ynez, on Thursday, August 27.

Working in oil on canvas and wood, Hernandez creates elaborate narrative paintings that use unexpected viewpoints and forced perspective to place viewers inside scenes involving cultural memory, spirituality, popular culture and contemporary life. Some of his major pieces take two to three years to complete.

The opening reception will be held Thursday, August 27, from 5–7 p.m. The exhibition continues August 28 through September 20, with an artist’s talk on Saturday, September 19 at 3 p.m.

Hernandez is available for an interview, and high-resolution artwork, installation photographs and additional background materials are available.

Indah Gallery
2190 N. Refugio Road
Santa Ynez, California
https://chuchoart.com
https://www.indahgallery.org/

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a88f8cin41cXNEOVSTbYgM5_IQ1nPheC/view?usp=sharing

Thank you for considering this local arts story.

A story that has stirred hearts for generations is coming to the stage in Thousand Oaks.

This October 9 – 18, experience the passion, power, and unforgettable music of Les Misérables. From the soaring anthem "One Day More" to the heartfelt ballads "I Dreamed a Dream," "On My Own," and "Bring Him Home," this epic tale of love, sacrifice, redemption, and revolution remains one of the most celebrated musicals of all time.

Join us October 1-31, 2026 for an entire month of BRAND NEW vegan options all over Santa Barbara, CA!
During this time, restaurants throughout the Santa Barbara area will feature special vegan menu items. Diners have the opportunity to go out, enjoy meals, review/rate menus, and post photos of the delicious vegan meals they have ordered.

To view a list of current participants/menus visit veganchefchallenge.org/santabarbara

Since 2007, UCSB Reads has fostered a shared sense of belonging by bringing the UCSB campus and Santa Barbara communities together to read a common book that explores compelling issues of our time. Conceived by then Executive Vice Chancellor Gene Lucas, the program is led by the UCSB Library in collaboration with campus and community partners. Each year, a committee of UCSB faculty, students, staff, and community members selects a thought-provoking, interdisciplinary book written by a living author that encourages a wide range of readers to engage with a contemporary social, political, cultural or scientific issue such as climate change, racial justice, technology, memory, identity, and democracy.

The program kicks off in winter with a book giveaway for UCSB students led by the Chancellor, Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, and University Librarian, and culminates with a free public talk by the book’s author(s) at Campbell Hall in the spring. Throughout the winter and spring quarters, the Library sponsors a variety of free learning, experiential, and social events to explore the book’s themes. The selected book is also incorporated into the university curriculum for winter and spring, allowing students to explore its themes in an academic context. UCSB Reads is generously supported by many individuals, university departments, and organizations.

This exhibition highlights the history of UCSB Reads since its inception, featuring promotional posters, selected books, custom bookmarks along with testimonials and images of participants engaging with programming throughout the years. UCSB Reads has become a beloved campus tradition that brings together thousands of people every year and demonstrates the power of literature to bridge divides, promote intellectual engagement, and build community.

Join us for the 18th Annual Domestic Violence Solutions Brunch on Sunday, October 11 at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort.  Enjoy an inspiring morning featuring survivor stories, a VIP reception, brunch, live auction, our Gift Card Wall, and the debut of our exciting Golden Treasure Chest Experience, where guests can purchase a chance to win one of ten incredible curated experiences.  Held during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this signature event supports the life-saving work of Domestic Violence Solutions and helps provide safety, shelter, counseling, and support to survivors throughout Santa Barbara County. The last two years, this event has sold out, so reserve your spot early.  Your support creates safe nights, healing journeys, and opportunities to rebuild.  10AM VIP Reception | 11AM Brunch Program