Plank Goodness
he Ritz-Carleton Bacara Resort and Spa general manager Roberto van Geenen and Goleta mayor Paula Perotte greet guests at their tree lighting with carolers in the lobby (photo by Priscilla)
Champagne and apple cider were flowing freely when the Ritz-Carlton Bacara threw a socially gridlocked reception for the lighting of the tony hostelry’s Christmas tree.
The 11-feet-high fir was stunningly decorated by in-house designer Rosie Neely for the occasion, when Goleta mayor Paula Perotte threw the switch, watched by the 195 guests, many of them children.
New manager Dutch-born Roberto van Geenen, who has worked for the tony hotel chain for 31 years and moved here from Dallas, Texas, was master of ceremonies, while the Lil’ Dickens Carolers, suitably attired in Victorian period costume, from Los Angeles warbled away.
Copies of the tree decorations are being sold at the hotel, with profits going to the Gaviota Coast Conservancy.
Anticipating the Ritz Carleton’s tree lighting are Leyla and Nathan Lynn, Samira and Steve Ramirez with their children Isla, Griffin, Connor, Boden, Lincoln, and Milana (photo by Priscilla) 
Members of the Ritz Carleton Bacara club participating in the Christmas tree lighting are Bruce McKaig, Mary Conneely, Louise McKaig, Dudley Conneely, and Kristin Castorino (photo by Priscilla)
Ted Mullen, Stefani Canin Mullen, and her mother, Pearl Canin, with boys Aidan and Luke along with Mark Danielson of KEYT (photo by Priscilla) 
Capturing a holiday moment with Rob Brandenberg, Taskforce Hotel manager; guests Jen and Skip Abed, Kilho Park, and Julia Chrynko of Baby Coral Rock, and Anthony Rock (photo by Priscilla)
