I couldn’t think of a better person to answer the Santa Barbara Questionnaire during the first week of 2014 than our own Mayor Helene Schneider, who was easily elected to her second term back in November. I’ve known Helene for many years now, and what I most admire is how infinitely approachable she is.
One of my favorite memories ever of living in this inescapably wondrous city is accompanying the mayor to an “Atelier” event at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. As we mingled with strangers who became instant friends on that early summer evening this past year, I observed a master class on being present, on being able to listen to people, and, most importantly, on being grateful for the good things that have come your way.
Below, our Madame Mayor answers the Proust Questionnaire.