I wanted to share what I wrote to my Supervisors after the recent Mariachi Festival. While they are kudos for the Santa Barbara Bowl, it is a reminder to all of Santa Barbara that kindness is noticed and appreciated.
I was stopped by a Guest late in the Mariachi Festival show to hear his strong, heartfelt appreciation. Frequently, I discount glowing words that may be alcohol or chemically induced, but this Guest did not even have an alcohol wristband. Although English was his second language, he was able to communicate his feelings. I will paraphrase what I heard here:
He wished to thank me and us at the Santa Barbara Bowl for all work we do to create a wonderful evening for him. He is 67 years old and has traveled extensively throughout Mexico, central America and parts of the United States to listen to mariachi music. Many places are rough and frightening, but the Bowl was different. Here, he experienced people who were friendly and helpful and happy to have him here. He felt open and comfortable and safe. It made him able to forget about the world outside for just this evening.