Hearts and Horses

By Lisa Duncan

Boots, blue jeans, and big-hearted philanthropy took center stage this week as Hearts Equine Therapy hosted its spirited barn dance fundraiser, proving once again that Santa Barbara can do rustic glamour rather exceptionally well.

The evening centered around the remarkable work of Hearts Equine Therapy, which serves local children with disabilities, including autism and Down syndrome, through therapeutic horseback riding and equine programs designed to build confidence, connection, and joy. Board President Andrew Wilson, looking every inch the Santa Barbara Ranchero, reflected on the organization’s mission and the transformative power of the program.

Guests arrived dressed in full cowboy and cowgirl chic as the live band Caught Red Handed kept the dance floor humming late into the evening. Through therapeutic horseback riding and equine-assisted activities, Hearts Equine Therapy helps children and adults with disabilities build confidence, improve physical coordination, and experience the joy of connecting with these remarkable animals. Country line dancing lessons brought plenty of laughs, with some guests gliding gracefully across the floor while others looked rather like startled cattle at feeding time. All part of the charm.

One of the evening’s most touching moments came from participant Jessica Simon, who delivered a moving speech about the program’s impact on her life. “I’m happiest riding a horse with the wind in my hair,” she shared, drawing misty eyes throughout the barn. Fellow participant Robbie Moore also spoke warmly about the life-changing experience of working with the horses.

Guests feasted on hearty barbecue tri-tip, beans, and corn on the cob while Wilson reflected on his 30 years as a Ranchero. “It’s an amazing program that has such a big impact on the kids’ lives,” he said. Executive director Kristen Kallai, meanwhile, cheerfully declared, “I’m the boots on the ground!”

Also attending were Board Members Pat Carroll, DeeDee Conrad, Don Barthelmess, Carol Kallman, Thom Bateman, Stephanie Petlow, Phil Unander, Mike Mendoza, Tracy Sanginiti, and Paul Uyesaka, along with Jenna and Avi Reichenthal.

Quite enough to warm even the dustiest cowboy heart.

Sightings 

Fresh from a Montecito weekend and double date with the Biebers, Kendall Jenner and Jacob Elordi were spotted enjoying a cozy evening in Tokyo this week… 

Media mogul Ted Sarandos was spotted backstage at Vox Media’s Prof G Markets Tour in San Francisco… 

Gwyneth Paltrow was spotted on NBC’s Today show in New York this week… 

Katy Perry roaring into quite a week after scoring a major legal victory in her battle over her $15 million estate and being awarded millions in attorney fees.

From Richard and friends to all of you… Pip! Pip!