Help Mothers this Mother’s Day

Mothers’ Helpers, a local nonprofit serving low-income families with infants, will host a Mother’s Day Drive at Montecito Fire Department. Community members are invited to drop off new or gently used baby items from 11 am to 1 pm on May 10. Items most needed include infant and convertible car seats, strollers, pack ‘n’ plays, bassinets, baby carriers, diaper bags, diapers & wipes.

“Over the years, we’ve touched countless lives, thanks to the steadfast support of our community,” said Michelle Erickson, Executive Director of Mothers’ Helpers. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Montecito Fire Department for helping us expand our reach and serve even more families in need.”

As part of their Mother’s Day Appeal to raise $5,000 in support of local families, the organization invites you to make a meaningful impact. Tax-deductible donations can be made to Sponsor a Family or contribute to our general fund. 

To learn more, volunteer, or donate, visit www.mothershelpers.org or email Executive Director Michelle Erickson at michelle@mothershelpers.org

Hudson Grace Montecito Presents Chef Loria Stern

Hudson Grace is hosting Loria Stern, chef and artist to present her book, Eat Your Flowers, A Cookbook, on Friday, May 9, from 4-6 pm, just in time for Mother’s Day.

Stern started her culinary edible flowers innovations, a bakery, and catering brand in Montecito. She has presented her work in Vogue, the NY Times and Harper’s Bazaar.

RSVP suggested.

411: Phone: 805-565-9600

Rose Story Farm Pop-up at Hudson Grace Montecito

Rose Story Farm is doing a flower bouquet pop-up at Hudson Grace Montecito on 

Thursday, May 8, at 10 am and on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, at 6 pm. No excuses for not getting those flowers!

Helena Simon Brooches Event at Emily Joubert Montecito

Visit Emily Joubert to discover the beauty of Helena Simon fine floral brooches. Shop the stunning collection, perfect for spring and Mother’s Day. Event is on Friday, May 9, at 10 am and on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, at 6  pm.

Montecito Country Mart Mother’s Day Events:

The Montecito Country Mart invites locals to stop by on Saturday, May 10, from 12-3 pm to plant a posey and create a card for a mother in your life! Free and RSVP not required.

Bonsai Show Finds New Home at MUS

The Bonsai Club of Santa Barbara, the oldest bonsai club in California, invites you to its 48th Annual Bonsai Show & Sale on Saturday and Sunday, May 17-18, from 10 am to 4 pm at Montecito Union Elementary School, 385 San Ysidro Rd. Admission is free and open to all who want to explore the world of bonsai. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just curious about this ancient living art form, come and connect with a welcoming community of bonsai lovers to learn, create, or just admire some amazing, centuries old, sculpted trees.

Superintendent and bonsai enthusiast Anthony Ranii added, “Montecito Union School (MUS) is thrilled to be the new home of the Bonsai Club of Santa Barbara’s Annual Bonsai Show. MUS treasures art, community, and nature, so this new partnership is a perfect fit. Our newly renovated MUS auditorium will be a perfect place to showcase these truly spectacular trees cultivated by inspired artists. As a member of the Bonsai Club, I hope to see you there!”

SB Black Culture House at Community History Day

Darrell and Sally McNeill announced they are joining in the SB Trust for Historic Preservation’s Community History Day, on Saturday, May 10, from 11 am to 2 pm,at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park. They have participated in this event since 2022, which celebrates Santa Barbara’s diversity and multicultural history, with hands-on learning stations, arts & crafts tables, activity tables led by local organizations, historical walking tours and interactive exhibit experiences that highlight the layered histories of Santa Barbara’s Presidio Neighborhood
over time. 

411: www.sbthp.org/chd

66th Annual Carpinteria Community Awards

The 66th annual Carpinteria Community Awards Banquet was held on Saturday night, April 26th in Carpinteria. The event, hosted by the Carpinteria Community Association, treated 250 people to a wonderful dinner provided by Events by Rincon and an evening of awards and recognition for many local folks. Girls Inc. of Carpinteria’s gymnasium was converted into an elegant room where 18 local service organizations and nonprofits gathered to honor stellar volunteerism with a Merit Award. Robitaille’s Fine Candies was honored for their 36 years in business, and a Spotlight on Local Business Award was presented to both the Ballat and Mascari families. Each family is the owner of three local businesses. John Palminteri was presented with a special Community Media Award. Two local teachers were recognized as Educator(s) of the Year. Rene Mireles and Elizabeth Poulin were honored for their perseverance and dedication in teaching Carpinteria’s students. At this event, a Junior Carpinterian of the Year is selected following a rigorous application and interview process. Both Evelyn Calkins and Daisy Gemberling were named as finalists and the Junior Carpinterian of the Year was Valeria Zamora Susano. Twenty-three former Carpinterians of the Year were introduced, followed by the announcement of the 2024 Carpinterian of the Year, Lynda Fairly.