When Luis Goena turned 70, a large crowd gathered at the City Recreation Center to dance in 1998, as he was the Pied Piper in popularizing that activity in Santa Barbara. Creating that kind of adoration in one’s community is a rare thing. But, happily, not unique. Ted Adams is another man who has touched the lives of a vast number of Santa Barbarans. His connection to the communities of Mountain Drive and Painted Cave has created a large network that has blossomed over the years, with so many friends of friends joining the ranks of those who treasure this man.
Since Ted’s 70th birthday, he has also welcomed this throng to join in this celebration, repeating the event on his 75th, 80th, and, on February 9, his 85th birthday. These occasions have all been held at the Carriage Museum at Pershing Park. This may have been in part because it is also the site of many gatherings of the local chapter of E Clampus Vitus. In any event, it is a fortunate choice, because it provides the expansive space necessary to accommodate the 100 or so of the faithful who attend these functions. They are really quite extraordinary gatherings, with those who see each other regularly, and those who may not have been in touch since the last party, but who still share a strong bond of shared experience and world view.
Ted’s continued good health is a true blessing for all of us. First and foremost, because we all get to enjoy his company and infectious energy and joy in life. I’m not the only one who has also expressed appreciation for how refreshing it is, to have such a tribal reunion at something other than a memorial service, as is often the case.