Good morning, Santa Barbara.

Independent reviewed 2025’s most-read stories that kept Santa Barbara informed on topics from local arts events & community milestones to public safety and developments in education and sports.

The overview shows a busy year that connected residents with diverse, engaging local news.

Santa Barbara retailers now face uncertainty as downpours that fell over the holiday season continue to affect downtown foot traffic.

A Crafters Library store owner said indoor shops may be less affected & could keep attracting visitors.

Indy Staff's photo essay features shots by Ingrid Bostrom, Carl Perry, and other local photographers (capturing memorable 2025 moments) and was published Dec.

31, 2025; Santa Barbara residents can revisit the year's highlights through these captivating images.

The Music Academy of the West hosts the ‘Mariposa’ series on January 8 at Hahn Hall with Edgar Meyer, Joshua Roman, and Tessa Lark presenting Bach and new trio works.

The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. on the scenic Miraflores campus (a cherished venue for world-class music).

California’s minimum wage will rise to $16.90 an hour on Jan.

1—a 40-cent increase calculated by the Department of Finance. The state mandates annual adjustments for inflation while local jurisdictions set their own rates and some unions push for higher industry-specific wages.

Santa Barbara Airport will expand its flight routes in 2026 as five airlines add (13 nonstop destinations) and 26 departures beginning in January.

United Airlines resumes nonstop service to Chicago on Apr. 6 while Delta ends its Atlanta route on Jan. 21 and increases flights to Salt Lake City.

Sara Firestone began college at SBCC at 17 (after earning her GED early due to jaw surgery) and built a career in mental health.

She now supports families with perinatal care in Santa Barbara and credits SBCC for fostering her academic and personal growth.

Officials are monitoring Lake Cachuma after it nearly filled last week and released water to prevent flooding downstream — local and federal agencies plan to adjust flows as additional rain is forecast later this week to maintain water supply.

Governor Newsom pre-deployed emergency crews and resources ahead of winter storms forecast from Wednesday evening to Thursday in local foothill areas and Ventura County.

CAL FIRE (with support from CHP and Caltrans) stands ready to respond and urges residents to avoid flooded roads.

On Tuesday, Dec. 30, the Santa Barbara Police Department said Loma Alta Drive reopened from San Andres Street to Shoreline Drive, easing local travel for residents.

UCSB researchers are testing a lab-made dIgA antibody in mice to slow kidney cyst growth linked to polycystic kidney disease (PKD).

The study is in early stages and may help guide future therapies.

At the Santa Barbara Holiday Classic, San Marcos beat Granada Hills 63-42, Bishop Diego edged Davis Sr. 63-60 with a clutch three-pointer, Dos Pueblos won 58-53 in overtime and Santa Barbara beat Oakland Tech 61-54.

San Marcos will host San Luis Obispo Saturday + the Dons face Redondo Union Friday.

Thirty high school football players from six local schools were named to Noozhawk’s 2025 All-South Coast Football Team for their strong fall performances.

The list highlights standout athletes from programs like Bishop Diego, San Marcos & Dos Pueblos.

Bishop Diego girls basketball won the Avalon Classic championship on Wednesday with a 50-30 win over Pacifica Christian.

The Cardinals built an early lead and maintained control throughout the game (Tournament MVP Jaymi Coronado excelled) and will face Valley Christian on Monday.

Reading Skills 101 Workshop

2-4 p.m. — Santa Barbara Public Library — Free entry — A community workshop designed to empower families with essential reading skills and understanding for children across all grades.