The Love Boat(s)

A tidal wave of generosity swept over the 149-year-old Santa Barbara Yacht Club for the 20th anniversary Yachts of Love regatta which was expected to raise $120,000 for 113-year-old VNA Health – formerly known as Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care. More than 400 guests attended, many taking to the cooling waves on members’ yachts.

The nautical jolly, which since its inception two decades ago has raised more than $2.5 million, was co-chaired by Francie Lufkin and Nick Sebastian.

Before the starting gun sent the 30-plus racers on their way, David Gonzalez sang the national anthem, and there was a harbor patrol paddle board salute. The event’s emcee was David Moorman.

Among those enjoying a day on the Pacific waves were Sigrid Toye, Trish Davis, Bill and Shari Guilfoyle, Jack and Karen Byers, Jeff and Becky Berkus, Alixe Mattingly, Mayor Randy Rowse, former Mayor Helene Schneider, Brenda Blalock and Alan Porter, Dick and Mary Compton, and Fred and Sarah Kass.