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Santa MariaPride is alive: Drag queens, PCPA, dance, wine, brunch, and more celebrate the season
June is here, and the Central Coast is glowing with Pride. From drag shows in Santa Maria to PCPA's special Pride Nights in Solvang, our region is celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with music, dance, wine, and brunch. It's a joyful reminder that love and inclusion are part of our local fabric. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood highlights these events in this year's Santa Maria Sun Pride issue, showcasing how both Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo are coming together to honor the season. Whether you're catching a performance or raising a glass at a Pride brunch, these gatherings are about belonging—and they matter deeply to our community. This isn't just a calendar of events; it's a reflection of how far we've come and how much we cherish diversity here on the Central Coast. Pride Month gives us all a chance to support local artists, connect with neighbors, and celebrate the vibrant spirit that makes 805 life so special. Mark your calendars and join the fun—because Pride is alive and thriving in Santa Maria and beyond.
Santa MariaPCPA pairs performances with pre-show Pride Night festivities
Pride Night is returning to PCPA, and this year they’re inviting audiences to dress like they’re part of the show. Event and Development Coordinator Lolly Tolan suggests cowboy hats and bolo ties for a look that might get you mistaken for a cast member. The pre-show festivities add a festive layer to performances, making for a memorable night out on the Central Coast. This kind of inclusive, community-driven event is exactly what makes Santa Maria special. The Santa Maria Sun reported that PCPA is pairing these Pride Night celebrations with select shows, giving locals a chance to celebrate both the arts and LGBTQ+ pride. It’s a reminder that our local theater scene isn’t just about watching—it’s about belonging.
Santa MariaThe stories behind the drag queens performing at drag shows for June Pride
Drag isn't just about glitter and glamour—it's about giving people permission to be their truest selves. That's the message Santa Maria performer Nova Cane brings to every show, especially during June Pride. With thigh-high boots, bold contour, and high-energy sets to Doja Cat and Kylie Minogue, Cane inspires others to find the performer inside themselves. The Santa Maria Sun recently captured her story, reminding us that our local drag scene is a vibrant, courageous space for creativity and connection. Here on the Central Coast, Pride Month is a time to celebrate how far we've come—and how much joy is still being created. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the scene, shows like Cane's offer a chance to witness art that's both personal and powerful. It's a beautiful reminder that Santa Maria's community is richer when everyone feels free to shine.
San Luis ObispoMore than 1,300 PG&E customers without power in SLO County
More than 1,300 PG&E customers in San Luis Obispo County are without power tonight as gusty winds sweep through the region. According to CalCoastNews, the largest outage hit the Lake Nacimiento area early Wednesday morning, leaving over 1,100 residents in the dark shortly after 9 a.m. Another 270 customers near the coast lost power just before 9 p.m., adding to the evening's disruptions. PG&E estimates power will be restored later tonight, but for those in rural parts of the county, these outages are a familiar reminder of how vulnerable our communities can be during windy weather. Whether you're at home or checking on neighbors, it's a good night to keep flashlights handy and stay tuned to local updates. We'll keep you posted as more information comes in.
Santa BarbaraParading with Pride Around Santa Barbara County
Pride season is upon us, and this year Santa Barbara County is celebrating with extra sparkle. The Santa Barbara Independent recently took a joyful look at the parades, drag history, and even the long-lost bars that helped shape our local LGBTQ+ community. From the vibrant floats in downtown Santa Barbara to the grassroots gatherings in Santa Maria and Lompoc, these events are more than just parties—they're a testament to how far we've come and a reminder of the work still ahead. What I love most is how this story weaves together the past and present. Remembering the old bars that once served as safe havens for queer folks in the 805 adds a layer of depth to our current celebrations. So whether you're marching, waving from the sidewalk, or just learning about our local drag pioneers, this piece from the Independent is a perfect primer for getting into the Pride spirit. Let's show up and show out, Central Coast!
Santa BarbaraArchitects Group Meeting to Look at County’s Built Environment
Ever wonder who’s shaping the look and feel of our South Coast? AIA Santa Barbara is hosting a panel next week that gets right to the heart of that question. At their June General Meeting, county administrators will sit down with architects to talk about the forces driving our built environment—from housing density to coastal preservation. It’s a rare chance to hear the people behind the permits and plans discuss what’s next for Santa Barbara’s long-term growth. If you’ve noticed cranes on the skyline or wondered about new projects in your neighborhood, this is your opportunity to get the inside story. The meeting is open to the public, so grab a neighbor and head over. Noozhawk first reported the details, and we think it’s a conversation every local should tune into.
Westlake VillageJury finds Grossman, Erickson liable for $176 million in boys’ tragedy
A Ventura County jury has ordered Rebecca Grossman and Scott Erickson to pay $176 million in a civil case connected to the 2020 Westlake Village crash that killed brothers Mark and Jacob Iskander. Grossman is already serving a life sentence for murder in the tragedy, while Erickson—a former Dodgers pitcher—was also found liable. The verdict, reported by The Acorn, brings a measure of accountability beyond the criminal courts for a crash that devastated our community and left two young lives cut short. For Westlake Village families, this case has been a painful reminder of the fragility of life on our roads. The Iskander family’s years-long fight for justice underscores how deeply this loss has resonated across the 805 region. While no amount can undo the tragedy, this civil judgment sends a clear message about responsibility and the lasting impact of reckless actions in our neighborhoods.
Santa BarbaraBehind the Homes of Santa Barbara: What Homeowners Need to Know About ADUs in 2026
If you're a Santa Barbara homeowner or thinking of becoming one, you've probably heard the term ADU thrown around a lot lately. But a recent piece in the Santa Barbara Independent reminds us that these accessory dwelling units are more than just a housing trend—they're a quiet revolution in how we think about property value and community. By 2026, new state and local rules could make adding an ADU easier than ever, which means more options for rental income, multigenerational living, or simply increasing your home's worth. For those of us on the Central Coast, where housing is tight and every square foot counts, understanding these changes is key. The Independent's deep dive reveals that the invisible systems behind home sales—zoning, permits, and incentives—are shifting in favor of homeowners. Whether you're buying, selling, or just staying put, staying informed about ADUs could be your smartest move this year.
Santa BarbaraSanta Barbara Soccer Club Honors 21 Graduating Seniors Playing in College
The Santa Barbara Soccer Club celebrated a remarkable milestone this week, honoring 21 graduating seniors who are taking their talents—and their academics—to the college level. These young athletes have dedicated years to the beautiful game, and their commitment is paying off with opportunities to compete and learn at the next level. It’s a proud moment for the families, coaches, and the entire local soccer community. This isn’t just about soccer; it’s a testament to the strong youth sports culture here on the Central Coast. For many of these players, SBSC has been a second home, teaching discipline, teamwork, and resilience. As they head off to colleges across the country, they carry a piece of Santa Barbara with them. Hats off to these seniors—and to the club for fostering such a supportive environment. For the full list of honorees and their college destinations, check out Noozhawk’s coverage.
Santa BarbaraHabitat Santa Barbara Raises More Than $300K to Build and Repair Homes Locally
Habitat for Humanity of Southern Santa Barbara County just proved that when this community comes together, real change happens. They raised over $300,000 to build and repair homes right here in Santa Barbara — a huge win in a region where affordable housing is one of our toughest challenges. This isn't just about construction; it's about giving local families a stable place to call home. Every dollar raised stays local, meaning we'll see more families moving into safe, affordable homes and fewer neighbors struggling with costly repairs. The Santa Barbara Independent shared the full story, and it's a reminder that grassroots efforts like this make a tangible difference in our daily lives. For anyone who's ever worried about the cost of living here, this is the kind of news that gives hope.
VenturaVentura College Launches Loreto Study Abroad Trip
Ventura College just made history — and it’s the kind of story that makes you proud to live here. Over spring break, 11 students headed south to Loreto, Mexico, Ventura’s sister city, for the college’s very first study abroad program. Led by Professor of Sociology Daniella, the group dove into a weeklong mix of culture, science, and community connection. It’s a beautiful example of how our local college is thinking beyond the classroom and giving students real-world, cross-border experiences. This trip matters because it strengthens the bond between Ventura and Loreto — a relationship that’s been growing for years. As reported by the Ventura Breeze, the program was immersive and interdisciplinary, blending sociology with hands-on learning. For a community college to launch an international program like this is no small feat. It shows that big opportunities don’t just happen at big universities. Here’s hoping this is the first of many adventures for Ventura College students.
Santa BarbaraA Gentle and Relentless Presence Leaves Santa Barbara for South Africa
After decades of quietly shaping Santa Barbara’s moral compass, Rev. Dr. David Moore is heading to South Africa. For those who’ve attended a city council meeting or a community vigil, his voice is unmistakable—calm, persistent, always lifting up those the rest of the room forgot. From advocating for the unhoused to standing with immigrant families, Moore has been less a fixture and more a gentle, relentless tide. His departure marks the end of an era for local activism, but his influence will echo in the policies shaped and the lives touched. The Santa Barbara Independent captured this bittersweet goodbye, reminding us that some presences are so woven into the fabric of a place, they never truly leave. Safe travels, Rev. Moore—your Central Coast community sends you off with gratitude.
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