The Bayou Open

For 17 years, the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission (SBRM) has had a fundraiser at the wonderful Dos Pueblos Ranch just north of town. Since one of the founders thought the property looked like a bayou, they have had different bayou themes – this year the Bayou Open, as in golf. Tee-off time was 2 pm when Fritz Harnsberger greeted us in his plus-fours, golf club in hand.

Part of the golf “course” was the silent auction. My favorite was the alpaca ranch tour and dinner for 10 in Carpinteria at Canzelles. And not to be missed was the caddy shack, where they were cranking out delicious appetizers such as grilled cheese with bacon. There was a wine or beer bar and music by The Idiomatiques. The “Clubhouse” served steak dinner family-style at long tables set among the largest stand of Moreton Bay Fig trees in the world (it is believed). Lorraine Lim did the catering.

Rancho Dos Pueblos is a historical treasure. We were in front of the Big House, which is part of a working ranch with lush grounds gardens, fruit trees, and roses. It holds acres of avocado trees. The Rescue Mission is so grateful to the Schultes for letting them use the property for the bayous.

Catherine Remak emceed the program, while board member Kiah Jordan introduced the recipients of the 16^th Leni Fe Bland award, David and Anna Grotenhuis. They have partnered with the Rescue Mission to ensure there will be a place in our community where people confronting homelessness and addiction can turn for coming decades. David and Anna are also involved with Westmont College and Foundation, the Cancer Foundation, and Cottage Hospital. They’ve had their own real estate investment firm since 1972.

Bringing all of this event together were co-chairs Susan Hughes, Suzi Ryan, and Kim Mullen. SBRM board chair is Joyce McCullough and president of the women’s auxiliary is Julie Willig.

The Rescue Mission operates one of the largest residential drug and alcohol treatment programs nationwide. In contrast to national statistics of only 21 percent who complete dependency programs stay free for five years, more than 46 percent of the Missions graduates stay free over the same time. The Mission provides hot meals and overnight accommodations to the homeless 365 days a year. For more information, call (805) 966-1316.