Ranging from a (literal) black-tie event to a music fest and photo exhibit, Santa Clarita's upcoming cultural "musts" are as different as they are desirable. We've come a long way, Baby.

The VIA Black & White BASH
VIA BASH debuted in 1999 and has been the party not to be missed ever since. Simply stated, BASH has become Santa Clarita's who's-who premier business event and this year promises to be over the top. Themed decor, fine dining and live entertainment and dancing make this signature event a must attend. This year's event will be held Saturday, October 19 and delivers a theme of "Black & White" inspired by Truman Capote's infamous social event of 1966.

Drawing inspiration from "My Fair Lady's" breathtaking Ascot scene, Capote aspired to create an occasion that
brought together a diversity of guests from his little black book to create visual unity using the most severe of color palettes: black and white attire.

Five decades later, VIA resurrects the excitement and anticipation of Capote's "A Night to Remember" with its own twist on the legendary affair: The VIA Black & White BASH with a splash of VIA signature red. Nola Aronson's Advanced Audiology returns as Title Sponsor.

As part of the evening's festivities, VIA celebrates the diversity and accomplishments of its members. Awards are given to those individuals and members of distinction deserving in one of several categories: the Connie Worden-Roberts Volunteer of the Year, VIA Business of the Year and VIA Rising Star. Nominations close Friday, August 30.

The VIA BASH benefits VIA's Connecting to Success, a privately-funded program that offers important workplace readiness skills to high school students. This signature program trains more than 2,500 high school students
annually from all area high schools. Befitting the event theme, readers can purchase a VIA Little Black Book sponsorship for $20 that sends one student to the program.

The Valley Industry Association is the voice of business and industry in the Santa Clarita Valley and on the cutting edge of solutions-based problem solving. Many of its worthwhile programs have transcended the passage of time and continue to impact the business environment today.
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Rick Springfield & Santa Clarita International Guitar Festival Coming to PAC this Fall
This fall, the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) will be filled with the sounds of rock and guitar music with special performances from Rick Springfield and the Santa Clarita International Guitar Festival.

Grammy Award-winner Rick Springfield will perform "Stripped Down," a special intimate solo show with interactive multimedia and storytelling at 8pm on Friday, September 13.

With more than 25 million records sold, Springfield's career has included 17 Top-40 hits, including "Don't Talk to Strangers," "An Affair of the Heart," "I've Done Everything for You," "Love Somebody" and "Human Touch." Springfield has also graced the TV screen, with acting roles on "The Six Million Dollar Man," "General Hospital" and "Supernatural." Don't miss your chance to get up close and personal with this '80s rock legend at the PAC!

On Saturday, October 12, the Santa Clarita International Guitar Festival will make its debut on the PAC main stage. Under the musical direction of Bill Macpherson, the one-night celebration of classical guitar will feature Latin Grammy-winning composer Yalil Guerra (Cuba), Independent Music Award-winner Jose Antonio Rodriguez (Spain) and Grammy Award-winning Scott Tennant (US).
canyonspac.com

Inside SCV's Star Photographer Mel Carll Opens Art Exhibit
Visit the Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library to view a new art exhibit titled, "The Ground Beneath Me; Not Above Me, So Enjoy Life..." by local photographer Mel Carll. Residents and visitors can view the exhibit now through December 3 at the library. Despite enduring difficult times battling cancer and going through radiation treatment, Carll chooses to find the bright side of situations. During his treatment, he did not allow his illness to discourage his practice of, or dedication to, his art. "The Ground Beneath Me; Not Above Me, So Enjoy Life..." represents hope and is a reminder to all to stay positive, have a good attitude and continue to love life. In the exhibit, viewers will find a beautiful portrayal and appreciation of nature. The natural subjects of Carll's photographs exude his love for life and allow others to see through his optimistic lens.
santaclaritaarts.com