A new outpost of Iris Galerie is set to open in downtown Santa Barbara, bringing the international gallery's unique iris photography concept to the local community. The gallery, which operates locations throughout Europe and North America, will be located at 4 West De La Guerra Street inside the 801 State Street building. The gallery specializes in capturing detailed photographs of customers' irises using state-of-the-art technology that can record every nuance of the iris in just seconds. Once the photograph is taken and optimized, customers can purchase prints or have their iris images transformed into custom jewelry and other personalized items.

In entertainment news, comedian Jerry Seinfeld is scheduled to perform at the Arlington Theatre on October 9, bringing his acclaimed stand-up comedy to Santa Barbara audiences.

The local arts community is celebrating the release of a new book titled "Spangler: A Santa Barbara Artist," which honors the late artist Dennis Spangler. The 120-page hardcover volume was lovingly compiled by children's book author Penelope "Penny" Paine and showcases Spangler's dynamic artistic journey throughout his career. The book highlights his diverse body of work, including his vibrant hand-painted fabrics and elaborate banners created for the Summer Solstice parade. Spangler also completed upholstery commissions for high-profile celebrities including Mick Jagger, Cher, and Farrah Fawcett. A launch party for the book is scheduled for August 17 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Sacred Space, where attendees will have the opportunity to purchase original fabric pieces and handmade items including bags, bookmarks, pillows, shirts, and other merchandise.

The Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association has announced significant enhancements to the downtown district beginning in September. The DSBIA will launch a comprehensive suite of improved services including enhanced janitorial services, pressure washing, and landscaping throughout the downtown area. Additionally, the organization is introducing a new Vacant Window Beautification Program designed to activate empty storefronts by featuring local art installations. This initiative aims to enliven the downtown atmosphere while simultaneously attracting new businesses to fill vacant commercial spaces.

According to the August 5 city council agenda, the city of Santa Barbara has identified a strategic opportunity to purchase property located at 1633 La Coronilla Drive that could address multiple municipal objectives. The city has noted that local housing costs have made it extremely difficult for staff members to secure affordable local housing. This housing challenge is particularly problematic for the Water Resources department, as city operations require staff to be on-site as quickly as possible to respond to after-hours water emergencies, including water main breaks. To protect public health and property, the city strives to have water operators respond to emergencies within 15 minutes or less. This rapid response requirement means that out-of-town operators need access to nearby rest facilities. Currently, Water Resources provides resting quarters at a local hotel for emergency response staff. Securing a dedicated local property would allow the city to ensure a consistent and reliable location for emergency service workers and standby operators to respond quickly to emergencies while also providing them with necessary rest facilities. The property could also be made available for other emergency service workers beyond the Water Resources department. Additionally, the acquisition would meet a neighborhood request to increase site security and surveillance during the Vic Trace Reservoir Project. The budget request for the property purchase is $2.185 million, while the property was most recently listed for sale in 2022 for $1.995 million.

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara has relaunched its special promotion for local residents, available through October 31. The spa package offers several treatment options including a 50-minute relaxation massage, 50-minute stress relief treatment, or 50-minute custom facial for $202. Additionally, they offer a signature manicure and signature pedicure package for $243. These promotional rates are valid Sunday through Thursday.

Two notable art exhibitions have opened at Sullivan Goss gallery, showcasing exceptional works by prominent artists. The first exhibition features paintings by Robin Gowen, including a piece titled "Cloud Haze." The second exhibition, called "The Fateful Eight," is a group show presenting significant works by some of the gallery's most sought-after artists from both past and present collections. This exhibition includes Alex Rasmussen's piece "Round Midnight" among other notable works.

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