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Santa BarbaraJoseph Ashley Garcia sentenced to life without parole after setting his father on fire in 2022
A Lompoc man has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for a horrific crime that shook our community. Joseph Ashley Garcia, 40, was convicted of using a blow torch to set his father on fire in June 2022. The sentencing took place this week in Santa Barbara County Superior Court, bringing a measure of closure to a case that left neighbors and family members in shock. This tragedy is a sobering reminder of the deep pain that can exist behind closed doors. KEYT News Channel 3-12 first reported on the arrest two years ago, and the case has since moved through the courts with a grim finality. Our hearts go out to the victim and all those affected by this unimaginable act of violence.
Santa BarbaraSanta Barbara Rescue Mission’s July 4th Event Offers Message of Hope
This Fourth of July, the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission is doing what it does best: bringing community together. On July 4th from 3 to 5 p.m., the Mission will host its 19th Annual BBQ, Raffle and Carnival — a free celebration for neighbors experiencing homelessness. Think burgers, games, and a chance to just feel like part of the crowd. It’s a small gesture with a big heart, reminding us that everyone deserves a seat at the table on America’s birthday. For nearly two decades, this event has been a bright spot in the 805’s summer calendar, offering more than just a meal. As Noozhawk reports, it’s a message of hope and dignity for those who often go unseen. In a community like Santa Barbara, where the gap between haves and have-nots can feel wide, this carnival is a simple, powerful way to bridge it — one hot dog and raffle ticket at a time.
Santa BarbaraExhibitor Registration Opens June 15 for Senior Expo of Santa Barbara
Mark your calendars, Santa Barbara — the 35th Annual Senior Expo is heading our way this fall, and exhibitor registration kicks off Monday, June 15. Hosted by Noozhawk, this is the largest active aging fair on the Central Coast, drawing hundreds of older adults and their families for a day of resources, health screenings, and community connections. From local senior services to interactive workshops, it’s a one-stop shop for navigating the golden years with vitality. Whether you're a caregiver, a retiree, or a business serving the 55-plus community, this is your chance to get involved. Exhibitor spots fill up fast, so savvy locals will want to register early. The expo doesn’t just inform — it celebrates the wisdom and energy of our older neighbors, making it a true Santa Barbara tradition. Stay tuned for the fall date and start planning now.
Santa BarbaraPublic Comment Opens For Santa Barbara Ordinance on Rent Limits, Housing Registry
Santa Barbara renters and property owners, mark your calendars. Public comment is now open for a proposed ordinance that would cap rent increases and create a housing registry in the city. This is a big deal for anyone who rents or manages property in our community—these rules could directly impact what you pay or charge each year. Head over to Noozhawk for the full breakdown, but the gist is this: the city wants input before finalizing changes to eviction rules and rent limits. Whether you're a tenant worried about affordability or a landlord concerned about regulations, now's the time to make your voice heard. Let's keep Santa Barbara a place where everyone can live, not just visit.
Santa BarbaraLush Indie-folk Storytelling Meets Energetic Rock
Lord Huron brought their Cosmic Selector Tour to the Santa Barbara Bowl last night, and it was a magical night under the stars. The band’s lush indie-folk storytelling blended seamlessly with energetic rock, creating a set that felt both intimate and expansive. For those of us in the 805, the Bowl is the perfect venue for this kind of cinematic sound — surrounded by oaks and ocean air, it’s a place where music truly comes alive. Local fans packed the house, and the energy was electric from the first note. If you missed it, you can read the full review in the Santa Barbara Independent. Shows like this remind us why we’re lucky to call the Central Coast home — world-class performances right in our backyard.
Santa BarbaraHeat Advisory issued June 10 at 5:52AM PDT until June 10 at 7:00PM PDT by NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA
It's going to be a scorcher today, friends. The National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard has issued a Heat Advisory for our inland Central Coast communities, including San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, effective until 7:00 PM this evening. According to KEYT News Channel 3-12, temperatures are expected to climb significantly, especially in areas away from the immediate coast. If you're in places like Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, or the inland valleys of SLO County, please take it easy. Stay hydrated, check on elderly neighbors and pets, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the peak afternoon hours. The marine layer might offer some relief near the beaches, but inland spots will feel the full force of this early summer heat wave. Let's look out for each other and stay cool until this advisory lifts.
Santa BarbaraMiss Ventura heads to the Miss California competition in hopes of bringing home the title
Hayley Hunt, Miss Ventura, is heading to Santa Barbara this week for the Miss California competition, marking her final year of eligibility in the Miss America organization. A familiar face in the 805 since her teen years, Hunt was first crowned Miss Ventura in 2015 and has been representing our region with grace ever since. Now in her late 20s, she's bringing years of experience and local pride to the stage. As the competition unfolds right here on the Central Coast, it's a wonderful chance for the community to rally behind one of our own. KEYT News Channel 3-12 reports on her journey, and whether she brings home the title or not, Hunt's dedication to Ventura County and the 805 is something worth celebrating. Let's cheer her on as she takes this final shot at the crown!
Santa BarbaraUC Santa Barbara’s Jackson Flora Earns National Pitcher of the Year Honor, All-West Region Selection
Big news for baseball fans on the Central Coast: UC Santa Barbara’s Jackson Flora has been named National Pitcher of the Year and earned All-West Region honors. The Gaucho ace is now projected to be the top pitcher taken in the upcoming MLB Draft — a rare and exciting milestone for our local college sports scene. Flora’s dominance on the mound this season has put UCSB baseball in the national spotlight, and it’s a proud moment for Santa Barbara. As reported by the Santa Barbara Independent, this recognition reflects not just individual talent but the strength of the program at UCSB. For locals who’ve watched Gaucho baseball at Caesar Uyesaka Stadium, seeing one of our own rise to the top of the draft board is a thrill. Keep an eye on draft day — Jackson Flora could be the next big name to come out of the 805.
Santa BarbaraWhere to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Santa Barbara County
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is finally here, and it's a historic one — 48 teams, three host countries, and plenty of reasons for Santa Barbara County soccer fans to gather and cheer. Whether you're rooting for the USMNT or just love the global spectacle, local bars and pubs are gearing up for watch parties. Noozhawk has the full rundown on where to catch the matches, from sports bars in Santa Barbara to hidden gems in Goleta and Carpinteria. This tournament only comes around every four years, and with games spanning time zones, there's bound to be an early-morning or late-night viewing spot near you. It's a chance to connect with neighbors and celebrate the world's game right here on the Central Coast. Check out Noozhawk's guide to plan your World Cup experience — and maybe make a new friend over a goal.
Santa BarbaraCollege of Creative Studies Leads 2026 Commencement Ceremonies
Seventy-four of UC Santa Barbara's most creative minds officially became alumni this past Sunday at Campbell Hall, kicking off the 2026 commencement season in style. The College of Creative Studies led the charge, celebrating students who pushed boundaries in everything from art to science. It's a proud moment for Isla Vista and Santa Barbara, where this tight-knit program has long been a hidden gem for independent thinkers. As the first UCSB commencement of the year, this ceremony sets the tone for a season of achievement across the 805. Whether you're a proud parent, a future applicant, or just love seeing local talent shine, it's a reminder of the innovation brewing right here on the Central Coast. Noozhawk captured the full story of this milestone day.
Santa BarbaraLocal Relief Agency Bringing Help to Philippines Quake Victims
Santa Barbara-based ShelterBox USA is mobilizing to bring aid to the Philippines after a devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Mindanao. The disaster relief agency, a longtime pillar of our local community, is deploying emergency shelter and supplies to families left homeless by the quake. For those of us in the 805, it’s a powerful reminder that our neighbors are making a global impact — and that even from the Central Coast, we can help. Noozhawk first reported the news, and it’s a story that resonates deeply here. ShelterBox has been a source of pride for Santa Barbara for years, and their swift response shows the compassion that defines our region. If you’re looking for ways to support their mission, check out their website — every bit helps bring hope to those who’ve lost everything.
Santa BarbaraSanta Barbara Rep. Carbajal Decries ‘$70 Billion Blank Check’ to Immigration Enforcement
Santa Barbara County has seen a noticeable shift in immigration enforcement over the past year, with ICE adopting quieter tactics and fewer high-profile operations. But that could change soon. Rep. Salud Carbajal is calling out what he describes as a '$70 billion blank check' for immigration enforcement, after Congress narrowly approved a massive funding increase for ICE. Carbajal, who represents our Central Coast district, argues this money will ramp up enforcement again, potentially reversing the more restrained approach we've seen locally. This matters for our community because Santa Barbara County has a large immigrant workforce, especially in agriculture and hospitality. Many families here have been living with less fear lately as enforcement went underground. Carbajal's warning, covered by the Santa Barbara Independent, suggests that could be temporary. For those of us who value a balanced, humane approach to immigration, this is a story worth watching closely.
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