Ganna Walska Lotusland Events for Summer

First Picnic is on Saturday, June 13, 2-4:30 pm. Sit back and enjoy the soulful sounds of Brian Kinsella, a jazz and blues guitarist. Pack your lunch, bring a cozy blanket or lawn chair, and settle in amongst the lush landscape. Well-Being Wednesday will feature a Sound Bath Meditation with Fabio Rambelli on Wednesday, June 17, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm.

MWC’s Wellness Weekend 

The Mental Wellness Center celebrated a successful Wellness Weekend, raising more than $500,000 to support free mental health services throughout Santa Barbara County. The fundraising effort centered on the organization’s second annual One Shining Night gala at Alma Rosa Winery, where 245 guests gathered for an evening themed, “The Power of Connection.” The following morning, more than 225 participants took part in the 7th Annual Peace of Mind Walk, winding through Alma Rosa’s vineyard-covered estate in support of mental health awareness and advocacy.

The gala honored the Kelly family as Rising Star Honorees and recognized sisters Belle Hahn and Lily Hahn Shining as Shining Star Honorees for their longstanding commitment to the organization. Guests also heard inspiring remarks from speaker Gabriella Taylor and personal stories highlighting the importance of connection, family support, and community resources.

CASA Leader Selected for National Leadership Role

Kim Colby Davis, executive director of CASA of SBC, has been appointed to the 2026 National Leadership Council of the National CASA/GAL Association for Children, a prestigious group that helps guide and strengthen CASA programs across the country.

The council represents local CASA organizations nationwide, elevating their perspectives to national leadership while fostering collaboration and advancing advocacy efforts for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Davis, who has led the Santa Barbara County program since 2009, has overseen remarkable growth, expanding services from approximately 125 children annually to more than 500 children each year. Today, CASA of Santa Barbara County serves roughly 85% of eligible children in the county.

New Medical Director

Cottage Health has appointed Dr. Jane Varner as medical director for the Cottage Center for Women’s Health, a new model of coordinated women’s care for the Santa Barbara region. Their press release states, “She’s a strong advocate for women’s health and health equity and brings a bold vision to her new leadership for advancing women’s health in our region. Cottage Center for Women’s Health will offer a new model for the women’s healthcare experience. It will put women at the center of their health care journey, with care backed by research and innovation.”

Tourism’s Economic Impact

Tourism leaders, elected officials, media, and hospitality professionals gathered at Rosewood Miramar Beach for Visit Santa Barbara’s Annual General Meeting, where the organization unveiled new data highlighting the visitor economy’s growing impact on the South Coast. The event, themed “Powered by Tourism: Supporting Our Community,” emphasized the far-reaching benefits of tourism beyond hotels and restaurants, from local farmers and artisans to cultural institutions, wineries, retailers, and small businesses.

According to Visit Santa Barbara, visitors spend more than $2.2 billion annually on the South Coast, supporting over 15,000 jobs and generating nearly $83 million in tax revenue. The organization also reported strong momentum in the hospitality sector, with spring hotel occupancy, average daily rates, and revenue all showing significant gains over the previous year.

The meeting highlighted upcoming opportunities, including preparations for FIFA World Cup 2026, with Austria and Qatar expected to train in the region, generating thousands of room nights. Looking ahead, Visit Santa Barbara is finalizing a new three-year strategic plan focused on enhancing the visitor experience, supporting local businesses, and ensuring tourism continues to strengthen the community.

Sunset Sips on Santa Barbara Channel

A new way to experience Santa Barbara’s coastline is setting sail this summer with the debut of Santa Barbara Sunset Sips, a monthly sunset cruise series presented by En Fuego Events, Condor Express, and Heart n Soul Mixology. Running from June through October, the intimate two-hour cruises combine live music, local craft beverages, and panoramic views of the Santa Barbara Channel.

The series launches over Father’s Day weekend on June 19, featuring live reggae from Cornerstone Reggae and a complimentary beer from Firestone Walker Brewing Company. Limited to just 100 guests, the cruises are designed to offer a more personal and relaxed alternative to large-scale festivals while showcasing some of the Central Coast’s favorite bands and breweries.

Future sailings will feature performances by The 90s Babiez, The Caverns, Maclovia, and The Vibe Setters, with themed events including a Halloween cruise and costume contest. Tickets include live entertainment, a scenic sunset voyage, and a complimentary beverage for guests 21 and older.

Correction & Update 

The Dry Cleaners at the Montecito Country Mart is still there, however Pressed Juicery has gone and the space is available for rent.The parking lot at Pierre LaFond upper village has a much-appreciated facelift with new pavement going in this week.