Independence Day at the Ranch and Other News Bytes

This July 4th, San Ysidro Ranch invites guests to its “Fourth of July in the Gardens” celebration – a festive afternoon of elevated Americana. From 12 to 4 pm, enjoy live music, lawn games, and patriotic décor in the sun-drenched gardens. Indulge in a gourmet Santa Maria-style barbecue featuring Snake River Farms Wagyu tri-tip, Jidori chicken, seasonal salads, and nostalgic desserts like peach cobbler and s’mores cookies. With drinks served from a vintage tuk tuk and a serene setting steeped in history. Reservations required; $150 adults, $95 children.

411: www.opentable.com/stonehouse-at-san-ysidro-ranch

Montecito Fire Reminder: Fireworks and Bonfires Are Illegal

Montecito Fire Chief Neels and his firefighters are calling on everyone to remember that any means of fireworks and bonfires are illegal in Montecito. That includes ‘safe and sane’ fireworks like sparklers. The reminder is that vegetation is critically dry and wildfire risk is high. The MFD encourages everyone to be safe, and report any suspicious activity including illegal fireworks and bonfires to the SB County Sheriff’s Department at (805) 681-4100 and to dial 9-1-1 immediately if you see or smell smoke.

In addition, Montecito Fire, in partnership with all other local fire agencies, declared June 2 as the start of 2025 High Fire Season in Santa Barbara County. During High Fire Season, Montecito Fire Department increases staffing ahead of critical fire weather conditions and dispatches additional resources to all wildland fire incidents. Additionally, all burn permits in Santa Barbara County are suspended during High Fire Season. For details on how you can defend against fires and keep the community safe see the 411.

411: https://tinyurl.com/SBCFireSeason

Fire Restrictions for Los Padres Forest Effective Now

With the arrival of summer heat are the annual Los Padres Forest Fire restrictions, effective June 18 through January 31, 2026. The restrictions specify no open fires, campfires, or charcoal fires are permitted outside of developed recreation sites or designated Campfire Use Sites, as well as no smoking. However, stoves are still permitted in the backcountry, and you can obtain a fire permit for that on their website. 

Due to last winter being fairly dry, and recent temperatures in the backcountry up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, it is important to stay vigilant. The forest service encourages people to stay vigilant to prevent fires at all times.

In addition, the Los Padres Forest Association stated recently they will not support the sale of public lands which may include in our area, Santa Ynez Recreation Area, the Santa Barbara front country, the Ojai front country, Pine Mountain, Sierra Madre Mountains above Cuyama Valley, Alamo Mountain and Mount Pinos, Figueroa Mountain, West Cuesta Ridge, Timber Top, and other areas. They encourage people to write and call their representatives to oppose this sale of public lands. Check the Wilderness Society website for info.

411: www.wilderness.org

Sese Ntem Becomes President of Montecito Rotary

Community leader and global citizen Sese Ntem has been named president of the Rotary Club of Montecito, officially assuming the role on July 1. Ntem succeeds outgoing president Kim Stone, bringing over a decade of service experience and a deep commitment to Rotary’s mission of “service above self.” Born and raised in Togo, West Africa, and now based in Santa Barbara, Ntem is known for his collaborative leadership, cross-cultural insight, and passion for community uplift. As president, he plans to expand the club’s impact through youth mentorship, global partnerships, and local outreach initiatives.

SBAA Donates to VADA

In a move to support emerging young artists, the Santa Barbara Art Association (SBAA) has donated $5,000 to the Visual Arts and Design Academy (VADA). The contribution aims to provide essential art supplies for high school students demonstrating both talent and financial need. SBAA President Terry Wimmer, inspired after touring VADA’s vibrant classrooms and meeting Program Director Daniel Barnett, called the school a “perfect recipient” for the support. While SBAA has historically supported college students, the organization hopes to build an ongoing relationship with VADA to foster creativity at an earlier stage.

Summerland Citizens Annual Potluck

The Summerland Citizens are holding their annual potluck event on Wednesday, July 9, from 4-6 pm at The Well on Lillie Avenue. The event celebrates the friends, families, and businesses of Summerland.  

411: Send text to (805) 451-2126