Welcome from El Presidente 2008

It is with great honor that I welcome the community to celebrate and participate in the 84th Old Spanish Days Fiesta. As a sixth-generation Santa Barbaran, I'm proud to be a descendent of the Foxen, Osuna and Cota Families. The spirit of those nineteenth-century ranching families was mi casa es su casa: "my house is your house". I encourage all of you to embrace that spirit by welcoming home your family and friends who return in August for our celebration and by showing great hospitality to the guests of our city.

Join with those family, friends and guests to enjoy all the sights and sounds of Santa Barbara during Fiesta: come see opening night "Fiesta Pequeña" at the Mission, sample the foods at the Mercados (which benefit local non-profits), enjoy the music and dance at Las Noches de Ronda in the beautiful Sunken Garden of the Courthouse, revel in the spills and thrills of the Rodeo, watch one of the largest equestrian parades in the country, and walk down Cabrillo Boulevard at the beach to check out the Arts and Craft show.

My theme for this year, "Viva La Comunidad" (Long live the community!), celebrates our people and all the ways in which they participate to make this community such a special place. From the Santa Barbarans who donate time and resources to our non-profits, offer leadership to encourage our fellow neighbors, work to create a sustainable environment, or even coach youth sports… to the admirable men and women we rely on to keep us safe…to the three thousand volunteers who help put on Old Spanish Days Fiesta by donating flowers, horses, their skills in dance and song, or their time to decorate floats, provide security, announce parades, set up booths and serve food … we recognize and honor all those who make Santa Barbara a community.

So…It is time to find your red sashes, embroidered shirts or colorful dresses and celebrate the Old Spanish Days! Relive the history and spirit of our comunidad and help create the festive mood brought by dance, music, and costumes. Participate in one of California's most historic festivals, and in Santa Barbara's most beloved community celebration.

¡Viva la Fiesta!
Tim Taylor El Presidente, 2008