Good morning, Santa Barbara.

After Tuesday's heavy rain, volunteers are handing out hundreds of ponchos today to keep residents dry on Christmas Eve, and at 5 p.m. tomorrow, canopies at Pershing Park will serve warm meals + nonperishable food bags.

United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County served over 1,000 kids and families (Dec.

22) with Thanksgiving dinners, Breakfast with Santa at Camp Whittier, parades, and youth ceremonies at City Council meetings, offering meals and community support during the busy holiday season.

Lou Cannon, a well-known journalist who chronicled Ronald Reagan’s career, died in Santa Barbara on Dec.

19 at age 92 from a reported stroke.

Santa Ynez Valley nonprofit People Helping People hosted the 31st annual Fulfill-A-Wish Boutique at Veterans’ Memorial Hall in Solvang on Dec.

10 and 11 to support 144 low-income households with items ranging from baby supplies to coats. Local businesses, schools & volunteers contributed over 2,500 items and food for 150 families.

The Mathilda Park Improvements Project at 311 Mathilda Drive in western Goleta will begin construction in early to mid-January and finish in spring with upgrades including a new playground, turf, drought-tolerant landscaping, improved drainage, and ADA walkway adjustments scheduled Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

John Thyne III sued City Hall over unsustainable lease terms & received an eviction notice for Harbor Restaurant on Stearns Wharf, where he plans to petition to combine cases as the venue draws brisk business and serves top seafood.

In 1925, Santa Barbara celebrated Christmas at Recreation Center following the downtown earthquake, hosting a community dance with live music, caroling outside a giant tree, and a special party with ice cream and apples for 260 kids.

78-year-old David Salvia remains passionate about learning as he studies astronomy and arts at Santa Barbara City College (his Rubik’s Cube record is 9.3 seconds).

With 17 degrees and a history of inspiring academic programs, Salvia shows that there is always more to learn.

PHMSA granted Sable Offshore permission Tuesday to restart its aging pipeline off the Gaviota Coast — local officials remain unsure if oil production has resumed as safety reviews and legal debates continue.

Governor Newsom announced state agencies have pre-deployed emergency resources for heavy winter storms expected this week.

In Santa Barbara and neighboring counties, teams including fire engines & rescue squads are ready to respond to flooding and hazardous conditions as families prepare for holiday travel.

Carpinteria-Summerland Fire Protection District announced the retirement of Fire Chief Robert Kovach, who served (46 years) in the fire service including fifteen years with the district.

His last day will be January 23, 2026.

Matt Kettmann reviews his top 40 food and travel stories from over 120 pieces written in 2025.

The review covers Santa Barbara restaurant openings, local wine trends and travel adventures — a look back at a flavorful year.

Mortgage broker Austin Lampson offered tips to help buyers tackle 2026's housing market by discussing when to refinance for lower rates and how to plan purchases in a tight market.

The advice comes as declining interest rates may increase affordability (1% lower rate can boost buying power by 10%).

Christmas Day Buffet

12-7 p.m. — Finch & Fork — Reservations recommended — Celebrate the season with a lavish buffet featuring seafood, carving stations, and delectable desserts.

The Gift of Christmas Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Lobero Theatre — Ticket pricing varies — Experience an unforgettable evening with Jim Brickman featuring holiday classics and heartwarming stories.

New Year's Eve Celebration in Santa Barbara 2025-2026

3:15-5:15 p.m. — Celebration Cruises — $110 admission — Enjoy a Champagne Cruise with breathtaking views as you toast to the New Year.