Community Calendar

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.

The community is invited to The Collection’s Día de los Muertos Altar, presented in partnership with the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC). Join the opening reception on Oct. 2 at 6 p.m. for live dance performances and special guest speakers as this year's multi-tiered altar adorned with candles, marigolds and ofrendas (offerings) is unveiled. The altar will be on display through Nov. 2, located between The Cheesecake Factory and Larsen's Grill.

The Collection would love to honor your loved one at the altar. Submit a photo of a deceased loved one by Friday, Sept. 25 at 6 p.m. and they will be included in the digital frame at the community altar. Photos can be submitted to https://form.jotform.com/252556264111148

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.

The community is invited to experience the Cal Poly Pier Open House in Avila Beach from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the university’s pier acquisition. Enjoy touch tanks featuring marine creatures, view tiny marine species through microscopes, and learn about local marine environments and the scientific studies conducted by Cal Poly students and faculty.

For more information, go to: https://marine.calpoly.edu/pier-open-house.

Native Plantpalooza & Eco Fest is a free, family-friendly outdoor event where the Conejo Valley community learns about native plants, water-wise gardening and more sustainable living. It provides inspiration for attendees to protect our environment and be good stewards of our open space. The event includes a variety of eco-themed exhibitors, including native plant vendors, beekeepers, wildlife rehab specialists and herpetologists. Experts speak on topics including native wildlife, drought-resistant gardening, firewise gardening and supporting monarchs through growing milkweed.

This event is Saturday & Sunday Oct. 10-11 and 17-18 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, all days

OPEN STUDIOS - SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
This free event allows the public to visit artists in their home studios to see the tools and discuss the processes they use to create art. All artwork purchased on the tour directly supports the participating artists.

To learn more about the artists, see their work, and download digital maps, go to SLOCountyArts.ORG/OSAT
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If you have any questions about this submission, please call me at 805-540-4250, Thanks for your consideration. All the best, Leigh

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.

The community is invited to The Collection’s Día de los Muertos Altar, presented in partnership with the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC). Join the opening reception on Oct. 2 at 6 p.m. for live dance performances and special guest speakers as this year's multi-tiered altar adorned with candles, marigolds and ofrendas (offerings) is unveiled. The altar will be on display through Nov. 2, located between The Cheesecake Factory and Larsen's Grill.

The Collection would love to honor your loved one at the altar. Submit a photo of a deceased loved one by Friday, Sept. 25 at 6 p.m. and they will be included in the digital frame at the community altar. Photos can be submitted to https://form.jotform.com/252556264111148