

The Investment Issue

At Harbor Hills, innovation and personal connection go hand in hand. We thoughtfully incorporate AI-based tools to enhance our investment research and financial planning processes — bringing added depth and efficiency to the way we serve our Montecito clients. Because while technology can inform decisions, it’s human understanding that gives them meaning.





Investments 2026
This winter reminded us that investment is often tested before it is rewarded.
Over the past few months, the Santa Barbara Coast experienced powerful storms with winddriven rain that rattled windows and challenged rooflines. It was the kind of season that makes you grateful for a strong home, supportive neighbors, and a community that looks out for one another.

As we move into spring, I have been reflecting on what investment truly means here. Many of us have watched our homes grow in value over the years, but the true return has always been the life built inside them. The gatherings around kitchen tables. The neighbors who become lifelong friends. The sense of place that deepens with time.
People may be drawn here for the beaches, the weather, and the beauty of the coastline. We stay because of the community. Families are building their lives here. Local businesses that serve those families year after year. Nonprofits are working quietly to preserve what makes this area special.
After a winter like the one we just experienced, protecting what we have feels especially meaningful. Our feature on Action Roofing speaks directly to that idea. A roof is not simply part of a home. It protects everything and everyone inside it. Choosing quality craftsmanship is not just maintenance. It is a commitment to stability, preservation, and the long-term strength of what you have built.
At the same time, the very rain that tested our homes is now transforming our landscape. Hillsides are beginning to bloom with wildflowers, a vivid reminder that nourishment beneath the surface eventually reveals itself. What felt relentless only weeks ago now gives way to color and renewal.
Here along the Santa Barbara Coast, investment is not only financial. It is personal. It is the decision to support local businesses, to show up for school events, to volunteer, and to protect the character of a community that many of us have spent decades building.
This season, the return on that investment is visible everywhere — in strong homes, blooming hillsides, and in the families and businesses who continue to believe in this area.
It is a privilege to help share their stories.
Cheers,

April 2026
PUBLISHER
Matt DeMarcus | matt.demarcus@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Sara DeMarcus | sara.demarcus@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lena Ibarra
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Matt DeMarcus, Sara DeMarcus, Susan Lanier-Graham, Angela Broockerd, Laura Sanchezquan, Kristy Belley, Josh Nissan
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Simon and Schuster, Lena Britt Photography, Matt DeMarcus, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle


MATT DEMARCUS, PUBLISHER







Dive Deeper with a Local Expert
For 30 years, we have helped clients navigate changing markets with clarity, confidence and poise. With more than $2 billion in assets under management, we are proud to be the largest locally based wealth management team on the Central Coast. We believe trust is built face to face, by listening closely, understanding what matters most, and using our decades of experience and expertise to craft strategies that can adapt and grow so you reach your goals with confidence.
We invite you to dive in and experience a new world of financial management.

city scene

@BARTLETTPRINGLEANDWOLF





@ANDERSENSDANISHBAKERYSB
@SHOPCOASTANDCOVE

1: A glimpse into the 2026 Winter Economic Forum at the Santa Barbara Zoo. 2: The Funk Zone Art Walk on the last Thursday of the month from 5-7 pm. 3: A little boy enjoying a big Eclair! 4: Saturdays are for candle making at the Candle Bar. 5: Mother Dough Bagels are always a good idea. 7: Coast & Cove is crafted with love for pets with style! @MADYMAIO





UPCOMING EVENTS

business monthly



Eat: Ghirardelli Santa Barbara store opening
Iconic chocolatier Ghirardelli Chocolate Company has opened a new Chocolate & Ice Cream Shop at 509 State Street in Santa Barbara. The downtown destination serves the brand’s famous hot fudge sundaes, specialty desserts, and signature chocolate squares, offering a sweet gathering spot for locals and visitors alike on the State Street corridor.
Sanger Family Wines Invites You to Discover Solvang Tasting Room
Sanger Family Wines invites Santa Barbara wine lovers to experience its welcoming Solvang tasting room. Known for estate-grown Bordeaux varietals and Rhône-inspired wines, the family-owned winery offers seated tastings that showcase the distinct terroir of the Santa Ynez Valley. Just a scenic drive up the coast, Sanger provides an authentic, relaxed wine country escape for locals seeking something new—without leaving the county.
Free People Opens at The Post Montecito
Free People has opened a new boutique at The Post Montecito (40 Los Patos Way), bringing its signature bohemian-inspired style to the Santa Barbara Coast. The airy, thoughtfully designed space offers women’s apparel, accessories, and seasonal collections that reflect the brand’s relaxed yet fashion-forward aesthetic. Just steps from Coast Village Road, the new location adds to Montecito’s curated retail scene and offers locals a fresh destination for effortless spring style.
Photography by @freepeople
Photography by @sangerfamilyofwines






STARTING AT THE TOP
Why a well-built roof remains one of the smartest long-term investments in your home.

ARTICLE BY SARA DEMARCUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LENA IBARRA/LENA BRITT PHOTOGRAPHY
Late at night, many local residents share the same quiet ritual. One last glance at KEYT before bed. A storm forming on the Doppler. A brief mental checklist follows—gutters, outdoor furniture, the direction of the wind.


Eventually, the house settles. Lights go out. Sleep arrives. Until it doesn’t.
Drip.
Drip.
Drip.
The sound registers before the thought fully forms. A drip where there shouldn’t be one. A pause. Then another. In the half-dark, the mind jumps ahead— water where it doesn’t belong, a ceiling that suddenly demands attention.
And then morning.
Coffee brewing. Soft light through the windows. The house looks exactly as it should. The ceiling is intact. It was only a dream.
Still, after the winter Santa Barbara just experienced, it doesn’t feel far-fetched.
This past season quietly tested roofs across the coast. Storms arrived closer together than usual. Rain fell heavier. Wind pressed differently against rooflines that had aged without much notice. Gutters struggled
to keep up, even after being cleared repeatedly. Water moved in ways homeowners weren’t used to seeing.
Nothing failed outright. But by spring, many homes had been put on notice.
Owning a home in Santa Barbara comes with a particular kind of awareness. Properties here are significant assets, and decisions rarely exist in isolation. Roofing affects not just protection, but resale confidence, inspections, insurance, and long-term peace of mind. A small issue left unresolved can quickly become the detail that complicates a remodel—or raises questions during a future sale.
It’s in this context that many homeowners began looking more closely at Action Roofing, a name long familiar throughout the region. Not through urgency or aggressive marketing, but through reputation— shared among neighbors, contractors, and professionals where reliability matters more than speed.
“In California, rain may not be an everyday thing,” says Jack Martin, “but when it does come, it comes hard.”
“It’s clear that the definition of ‘family’ extends far beyond relatives. Our employees truly become family through the relationships built over decades.”

That observation resonated after this winter. Rain here doesn’t need to be constant to be damaging. It simply needs to arrive at the wrong moment, with enough force to expose weaknesses that have developed quietly over time. For many homes, this season felt like a stress test.
As conversations unfolded, they often moved beyond materials and timelines. Action Roofing’s history came up not as a résumé, but as context. Founded in 1985, the company was built with family at its core from the beginning. Jack’s wife, Peg, helped during the early stages. His brothers, Steve and Jeff, joined in the years that followed.
Today, that legacy continues through the next generation. Jack’s daughter Courtney joined the company full-time after college and now serves as one of its key leaders.
“When I reflect on our journey,” Jack says, “it’s clear that the definition of ‘family’ extends far beyond relatives. Our employees truly become family through the relationships built over decades.”
That longevity matters in a market where homeowners want confidence that the people they work with will still be here years from now. Many members of the Action Roofing team have been with the company for decades, creating continuity that shows up in how projects are approached and executed.
“Leadership starts with caring,” Jack explains. “About the work we do and the people we do it for.”
After a winter like the one Santa Barbara just experienced, that idea lands differently. When storms test a home, experience matters. Roofing isn’t cosmetic—it’s foundational.



“When you invest in a home,” Jack says, “it really starts at the top.”
That perspective reframes the decision entirely. A roof isn’t just about keeping water out. It’s about protecting the integrity of the home as a whole—its structure, finishes, and long-term value.
Many homeowners had relied on repairs in the past, using them as a way to delay larger decisions. But that strategy came under scrutiny this winter.
“A repair usually just delays the larger cost of a full re-roof,” Jack explains. “If that repair doesn’t truly buy you several more years, then it often isn’t worth the expense.”
One of the most difficult situations, he notes, is seeing improperly installed roofs that must be completely redone— homeowners spending significant sums only to start over. It’s a scenario that underscores the cost of short-term thinking.
What stands out to many homeowners is the absence of pressure in these conversations. Options are explained, not pushed. Education comes first.
“Like anything important, it starts with sharing options and educating the homeowner,” Jack says. “We offer guidance, explain the choices, and share our advice. The final decision should always belong to the homeowner.”
That approach aligns well with Santa Barbara’s mindset, where homes are long-term investments and decisions are made thoughtfully. Jack often compares the relationship to trusting a doctor—someone who explains the issue clearly and prioritizes long-term outcomes over quick fixes.
This isn’t about upselling. It’s about stewardship.
Action Roofing has also chosen to remain deeply rooted locally rather than expand outward, a decision shaped by community.
“When you stay rooted in one place,” Jack says, “relationships naturally form. And those relationships mean something.”
After more than 45 years living and working in Santa Barbara County, those relationships show up in everyday
ways—longtime clients encountered around town, trust built slowly and maintained over time.
As spring settles in, it would be easy to let winter fade from memory and put roofing decisions back on hold. But many homeowners have learned that April is the right moment to act, not when the next storm is already forming offshore.
Spring is when Santa Barbara homeowners reset. They address what winter revealed and make decisions that allow them to move forward confidently, without worrying about what might surface during the next inspection or storm season.
For many, that means finally addressing the roofs they kept putting off—not with another temporary fix, but with a long-term solution guided by experience, honesty, and a clear understanding of what it means to own a home here.
After a winter like the one just passed, that clarity feels invaluable. To arrange a private consultation regarding your home or estate, contact Action Roofing at (805) 500-2086 or visit aroofing.com

“When you stay rooted in one place relationships naturally form. And those relationships mean something.”




RETIRE AS WELL AS YOU’VE LIVED
Introducing
Key Advantages:
Eric D. Miller NMLS #582959
Reverse
Phone: (805) 570-8885 emiller@mutualmortgage.com MutualReverse.com/lo/Eric-Miller

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL
An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.
A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.
Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?
A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.
Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?
A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.
Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?
A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.
“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”
Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?
A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”
Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.
This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.


for the exclusive reveal and more with Tim Tebow unfiltered.
the first time ever, Tim shares the inspiration behind a project he’s been holding close to his heart.
Redefining MVP
FEATURING TIM TEBOW






FROM HILLSIDES to Coastlines
ARTICLE BY MATT DEMARCUS
SPRING WILDFLOWERS
PAINT EVER WINDING MILE
April along the Santa Barbara Coast feels like nature’s standing ovation. Along Figueroa Mountain, California poppies blaze across sunlit slopes, joined by clusters of lupine and bright black-eyed Susans swaying in the breeze. Shaded canyons and higher elevations reveal delicate columbine and nodding shooting stars, while buttercups dot open meadows in cheerful gold. From vineyard-lined roads near Los Olivos to coastal bluffs above Gaviota, spring colors the landscape; an open invitation to hike a little farther, linger a little longer, and savor the season that makes the Central Coast shine. Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and take the scenic route home.
California Poppy
Black Eyed Susan Lupine
Columbine Buttercup
Shooting Star









Plant You r Kitchen Garden

A quick guide for simple ideas to start off your backyard kitchen garden. With endless health and medicinal benefits, combined with the beauty and enjoyment to be found, gardening is endlessly rewarding.
GETTING STARTED
• Plant your vegetable options right into your beds with flowers, the pollinators (bees, butterflies and more) are attracted to the beautiful flowers and your veggies will easily and abundantly go-to-fruit, living harmoniously in one bed.
• Every garden needs a rain gauge - you’ll be surprised at how fun it is to check. There is nothing like rain water for your garden. (This is optional, but definitely fun).
• Get your family involved. It’s never too late!
• Just go for it, our local climate can be weird and often extreme but don’t let it stop you- the most success and fun I’ve had was just going for it. Experiment and see what you love and what works best for you!
• In most cases, when watering, don’t water the petals and leaves, (especially when they’re in direct sunlight) try to water straight to the soil. All they need is water, nutrients and light to thrive! (and maybe a little love helps too!)
• Don’t forget herbs: Lavender, Mint, Lemon Verbena, Oregano, Basil, Cilantro, Parsley and more. Don’t be afraid to skip the spice rack and grab your seasoning from the garden.
ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN
BACKYARD GARDENS OFFER FRESH VEGGIES AND FOOD FOR YOUR SOUL


What to Plant
Whether starting from seed or seedlings, you can’t go wrong with these options. Start with foods you know you like to eat.

TOMATOES:
They’re delicious, money-saving, good for eating fresh and for preserving. Tomatoes come in endless colors, shapes and sizes. Plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil, ideally in full sun, and ensure they receive consistent moisture, supporting them with cages or stakes as they grow.

EGGPLANT:
Eggplant is a short season vegetable and a relative of peppers, potatoes, tomatoes and tobacco. It thrives in heat and full sun and can be deliciously made into baba ganoush and many other delicious dishes.

OKRA:
Okra loves our hot summers and full sun. Don’t wait too long to pick your okra, ideally harvesting them when they are 2 to 4 inches long. Can be eaten raw on a salad or best served deep fried. (The flower that turns into the okra itself is uniquely beautiful as well!)

PEPPERS:
Like tomatoes, peppers have many purposes and variations. Plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil after the last frost, spacing them 18 inches apart, and provide consistent watering while ensuring the soil doesn’t become waterlogged.
Flowers Bring Pollinators
Flowers bring joy to all five of our senses, but they also bring pollinators to our garden in order to ensure your backyard kitchen will produce lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Not to mention they also contain health and even medicinal properties.

HIBISCUS:
Make sure your hibiscus plants, whether tropical or hardy, get at least 6 hours of sun per day in order to achieve optimum blooming. Hibiscus flowers can be made into a delicious tea that can be served hot or ice cold (and is a good source of Vitamin C). With over 200 varieties of hibiscus world wide, their blooms only last a day or two! Stunning in all shapes, sizes and colors.


MARIGOLDS:
To the surprise of most people, marigold flowers are edible. Whether used fresh, dried, or infused into various beverages, Marigolds have a multitude of uses in the kitchen. An added benefit of planting these bright and low maintenance flowers next to tomatoes– they help keep pests away from devouring your tomatoes while also encouraging pollinators.

ZINNIAS: PLUMBAGO:
These bright, colorful garden gems have many benefits beyond their beauty and ease of care. Along with attracting pollinators, and being low maintenance they also have medicinal properties. Zinnias have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, they’re rich in antioxidants, and the natural compounds in zinnias can help calm irritated skin and reduce redness.
Plumbago is thought to have many health benefits, such as its anti-ulcer, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties, resulting from its principal chemical components, which are concentrated in the roots, leaves, and stems of plants. This attractive light purple flowering plant thrives in the sun, and has moderate watering needs. Trim and prune to suit your own preferences of growth and it’s a welcome, abundantly beautiful member of any garden.




Instead of wasting money on rising electric bills, you can replace it with a single predictable payment that covers a brand-new roof AND a custom solar system—all through SolaRoof by August Roofing.
9 No More Utility Surprises
9 Get a New Roof + Solar in One Easy Package
9 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit – Act Before It Changes! Why Now?
A federal bill could slash or eliminate the 30% solar tax credit starting January 1. With Santa Barbara’s lengthy permitting process, now’s the time to lock in your savings.
9 Take control of your energy.
9 Upgrade your home.
9 Pay less over time.





THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON AND SCHUSTER
Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital—whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement—doing some of your own research is often helpful.
We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.
1 2 BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ

ONE UP ON WALL STREET
One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.

HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.

POWER YOUR PROFITS
Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments, Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.

THE WEALTH DECISION
The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.

HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.

the architecture of Health
Nurturing your biological health with simple, joyful daily habits.
ARTICLE BY JOSH NISSAN
Here in beautiful Santa Barbara, we know that true wealth is simply feeling wonderful every single day. The most rewarding investment you can make is in your own vibrant health! By gently supporting your body, you naturally boost your heart and brain, giving you the joyful energy to love life.
PROTOCOL 1:
Show your heart some beautiful love
A happy heart loves colorful, nourishing foods. Treat yourself to a delicious daily blend of earthy raw beets, rich organic cacao, and a touch of fresh garlic. These vibrant ingredients act as natural helpers, beautifully relaxing your blood vessels and encouraging healthy circulation. It’s a wonderful, easy way to celebrate your cardiovascular wellness!
PROTOCOL 2:
Boost joy with our healing coastline
Did you know your gut creates most of your body’s serotonin, our natural “happy” chemical? You can beautifully stimulate this joy right here on our local beaches.
Take a barefoot walk on the sand to ground your nervous system, then let the cool ocean saltwater wash over your feet. This lovely routine gently awakens your vagus nerve, naturally lifting your mood!
PROTOCOL 3:
Celebrate your day with a microbiome meal
Think of lunch as a lovely gift to your body. Enjoying a vibrant, locally sourced Santa Barbara meal filled with diverse plants—like fresh artichokes and crisp asparagus—is the perfect way to feed good gut bacteria. This delicious, fiberrich food keeps your microbiome smiling, your mind sharp, and your heart incredibly happy.
Written by Josh Nissan, a Loma Lindatrained physical therapist and microbiome specialist, and owner of Santa Barbara Body Sculpting. His practice is built on a foundation of medical expertise and a deep understanding of the human body.
bodysculptingsantabarbara.com
Contact me for a free consultation: 805.705.1691
ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK
FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO INVEST IN YOUR MORNING AND START YOUR DAY OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT
habits for morning success

One of the best ways to invest in yourself is by creating a consistent and intentional morning routine. No matter how unpredictable or chaotic the rest of your day may become, starting your morning with self-care and purpose sets a positive tone that stays with you throughout the day. Once you develop a morning routine that truly resonates with you, you’ll look forward to it every night, knowing it will set the foundation for a productive and fulfilling day.
If you’re ready to elevate your mornings, here are some meaningful ways to invest in your routine and start each day on the right foot.
Be Your Own Barista:
One of life’s simplest pleasures is savoring a homemade coffee each morning. While skipping the drive-thru may be tough at first, brewing your own allows you to appreciate the process—and chances are, you’ll end up preferring your own perfect cup of joe.
Get Your Steps In:
An hour-long gym session before work may not be realistic, but a quick morning walk is. Use this time to clear your mind, enjoy nature, and listen to your favorite podcast or artist—an easy way to start your day feeling relaxed.
Enjoy Some Breakfast:
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet often the most overlooked. Setting your alarm just minutes earlier to prepare a fresh, nutritious meal can transform your morning, fueling your body and mind for a more energized and productive day.
Read A Book:
Starting your day with a book is far more calming than scrolling through social media. Reading in the morning helps ease you into the day, providing a peaceful and mindful escape that sets a positive, focused tone for what’s ahead.






ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
INCOME TAX cocktail
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
DIRECTIONS:
1. Squeeze your OJ.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
3. Shake.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
6. Garnish.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.



The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies. The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
EACH SATURDAY IN APRIL
Historic Architectural Walking Tours
El Paseo: 15 E. De La Guerra St | 10:00 AM
Santa Barbara Architecture Walking Tours presents its Historical Architectural Walking Tour throughout April, offered Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. in downtown Santa Barbara. Led by knowledgeable volunteer docents, the 90-minute guided stroll explores Spanish Colonial Revival landmarks and the city’s rich architectural heritage. Reservations are recommended; suggested donations support preservation efforts.
APRIL 8TH
Disclosure Performing at the SB Bowl
Santa Barbara Bowl: 1122 N. Milpas Street | 7:00 PM
Electronic duo Disclosure brings their genre-defining blend of house, garage, and dance anthems to the iconic Santa Barbara Bowl Tuesday, April 7, and Wednesday, April 8 at 7 PM. The Grammy-nominated brothers promise an electrifying night of immersive beats and open-air energy under the stars. Tickets are on sale now.
APRIL 13TH
Kaleidoscope Orchestra Concert
Hahn Hall at Music Academy of the West: 1070 Fairway Rd, Montecito | 7:30 PM
Kaleidoscope Chamber Orchestra performs Monday, April 13 at 7:30 PM at Hahn Hall at Music Academy of the West with an engaging program featuring works by Philip Glass, Rhiannon Giddens, Kala Ramnath, and Ludwig van Beethoven. This inspiring chamber music experience showcases vibrant contemporary and classical voices. Tickets are on sale now.
APRIL 18TH & 19TH
An American in Paris at The Granada Theatre
The Granada Theatre: 1214 State Street | 7:30 PM
An American in Paris comes to The Granada Theatre April 18, 2026 at 7:30 PM and April 19 at 3:00 PM. Conductor Nir Kabaretti leads violinist Alexi Kenney in works by Charles Ives, Samuel Barber, Jennifer Higdon, and George Gershwincelebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Includes Conversations with KUSC featuring Jennifer Miller Hammel.
APRIL 25TH & 26TH
SB Earth Day Festival
Alameda Park: 1400 Santa Barbara Street | 11:00 AM
Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival returns to Alameda Park April 25–26, 2026, celebrating the 56th Earth Day with free community programming. This two-day festival features live music, eco-friendly vendors, educational exhibits, plant-forward food, the West Coast’s largest green car show, and family activities that inspire climate action and sustainability.
APRIL 28TH & 29TH
Hadestown Performing at The Granada Theatre
The Granada Theatre: 1214 State Street | 7:30 PM
Hadestown, winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards including Best Musical and 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, comes to town April 28 and 29, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. Created by Anaïs Mitchell and directed by Rachel Chavkin, this acclaimed production intertwines the myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone in a haunting, hopeful love story.
Home of the Rincon Surf Jacket

The jacket every guy needs in his closet.
From morning coffee runs to dinner dates.
Comfort, style and that lived-in feel he’ll never want to take off.
Designed in Montecito, California. Made in the USA.





