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SANTA BARBARA SHOWS L.A. FIRE VICTIMS LOVE WITH A BENEFIT CONCERT

January 30, 2025

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When Santa Barbara comes together to help those affected by a natural disaster, it does so with style, heart, and incredible talent. Case in point: on Thursday, February 13, SOhO Restaurant & Music Club will host a benefit concert organized by the newly formed Santa Barbara South Coast Firefighter Foundation and FestForums. This star-studded event will raise funds to assist those affected by the devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area. With a lineup featuring musical legends and rising stars, this occasion is both a celebration of resilience and a heartfelt effort to provide relief to those in need

Head and shoulders of musician Alan Parsons onstage with a microphone.

A Star-Studded Lineup to Benefit L.A. Wildfire Victims

The headliner is Alan Parsons, a legendary producer and performer best known for his work with The Alan Parsons Project and classic albums like Dark Side of the Moon. Joining him on stage will be Jerry Harrison of Talking Heads fame, along with rock singer Sophie B. Hawkins, known for hits like “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover.” Also performing is singer, visual artist and entrepreneur Aishlin Harrison, with more artists expected to be announced in the coming days.

According to Laurie Kirby, Founder of FestForums: “We put this together very quickly. After feeling so helpless from these tragic fires, I am delighted that in some small way, the Santa Barbara community can assist those who have lost everything in these terrible fires.”

Poster for Fest Forums Benefit Concert with details in dark blue and black on a light blue background.

Event Details

The concert will be held on February 13 at SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State St., Ste. 205, in downtown Santa Barbara. The show begins at 9 p.m., and general admission tickets are just $40. With all proceeds going to the South Coast Firefighter Foundation, your ticket purchase offers not only a chance to enjoy incredible live music but also a way to meaningfully contribute to wildfire relief efforts.


For tickets and more information, visit bit.ly/4h40Ffj.


Why This Concert Matters

The wildfires that tore through the Los Angeles area have left thousands of people displaced, with their homes and belongings turned to ash. This devastating tragedy has ignited a powerful wave of compassion and a call to action, especially in neighboring Santa Barbara.

First responders in uniform stand in front of firetrucks and other equipment in a green field in front of mountains in the midst.

About the Santa Barbara South Coast Fire Foundation

Rising to meet this moment of need, the Santa Barbara South Coast Firefighter Foundation is a recently founded organization dedicated to supporting firefighters, their families, and the community during times of crisis. The not-for-profit foundation plays a critical role in supporting local firefighters and our local communities during emergencies, with a mission to provide financial assistance, emotional care, and practical resources to address the challenges that arise when disasters strike. By fostering a sense of solidarity, the foundation strengthens the community’s resilience in the face of adversity.

Beyond the fire service workforce, the organization is a vital resource for the broader community. It provides essential supplies, recovery assistance, and other forms of support to individuals and families affected by disasters, such as wildfires. Proceeds from the concert will go directly to L.A. wildfire victims, ensuring that funds are used to support those who need them most.

Other Ways You Can Help

Those looking to get involved in other ways should consider spreading the word about the concert, or making monetary donations to the Santa Barbara South Coast Firefighter Foundation.

In addition, national organizations, like the American Red Cross, also need your support. To help people affected by wildfires in California in 2025, visit the website, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767), or text the word CAWILDFIRES to 90999 and make a donation. You can also contribute to the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund, which provides essential support for disaster response and recovery. Every little bit helps when it comes to rebuilding lives and supporting our neighbors to the south.

Santa Barbara’s Spirit of Community in Action

This benefit concert is a shining example of the care and compassion that make Santa Barbara such an extraordinary place to call home. Our neighborhoods flourish because of the people who pour their hearts into making a difference—through volunteering, supporting events like this, or simply extending kindness to those around them. It’s this shared commitment to one another that truly sets Santa Barbara apart.

The recent wildfires are a stark reminder of the importance of community resilience. As we work together to support those affected, we also reinforce the bonds that make Santa Barbara a truly unique and caring community. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a newcomer, this is your opportunity to be part of something bigger—to show L.A. some love and prove that when times get tough, Santa Barbara shows up.


Santa Barbara is more than just a beautiful place to live; it’s a community that cares. If you're considering moving to or within Santa Barbara, I invite you to call me at (805) 886-9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com for a free consultation. Together, we can make a difference to those who need it most.


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- Michael & Nancy Lee

“Our experience in working with Cristal Clarke resulted in the successful and discrete acquisition of a property which was not yet on the open market. Her knowledge of the Montecito/Santa Barbara area and vast expertise blended with her passion for real estate and architecture, provided us with the very highest level of professionalism and personalized services. Cristal exhibited a rare combination of excellent communications, attention to detail, creativity and patience.”

- Richard and Catherine Frinier

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- Michael & Susan Marquart

“A little something about “our” realtor, Cristal Clarke. My wife and I came to Santa Barbara about fifteen years ago looking for a seasonal home from which to enjoy the weather and amenities of the central coast. Being in the real estate business myself I was familiar with agents and brokers so entered the market with open eyes. We “flipped” a few houses in the early years, dealing with various agents and finally ended up in Montecito. That’s when good fortune put us together with Cristal. To say we were impressed is to put it mildly. Cristal really knows the market. She is familiar with the area, its history and trends. When we have questions about a particular property she either has the answers immediately or gets back to us by phone or email. There is no waiting or wondering with Cristal. She is an agent who is “on top of it.” Her recommendations as to price points, contractors, inspectors and title agents have proven to be exceptional, showing great insight and the highest professional standards. We consider ourselves exceedingly fortunate to say that Cristal Clarke is our realtor and would recommend her services to any serious buyer or seller.”

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