Staff Report

With a grant of $92,500 awarded by the Edwin L. Wiegand Trust, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History has replaced and updated the audio visual equipment in Fleischmann Auditorium, its central public venue.

The improvements include replacing the digital projector, upgrading the audio system, rack, and speakers, replacing the screen, and adding sound baffles to the ceiling.

Historically, the Fleischmann Auditorium has been the epicenter of museum activity. Each year it hosts 15 to 20 lectures, along with numerous special events, dinners, and public gatherings. At least 15 times per year, the auditorium is booked by community organizations, and it has become a popular venue for private events such as wedding receptions.

The auditorium also serves as the location for science-based traveling exhibits such as this summer’s “National Geographic 50 Greatest Photographs,” opening May 26.

The museum is continuing its Centennial Campaign, a $20 million endeavor to fund exhibit renovations and essential infrastructure and site improvements.

For more information, visit campaign.sbnature.org or call Luke Swetland, president and CEO, at 805-682-4711, ext. 102.