TV Santa Barbara

Our All-Star Panel of Top Local Journalists is back with a new episode of Newsmakers TV, breaking down Santa Barbara's most consequential and entertaining news stories.

Cynthia Carbone Ward shares her writing journey, focusing on personal storytelling and community engagement. She reflects on her experiences as a writer and teacher, discussing the emotional aspects of caregiving and the power of writing. Cynthia emphasizes the importance of oral history and shared narratives, encouraging aspiring writers to find their unique voices and write from personal experiences while offering practical writing advice.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

It’s deadline day for candidates running for mayor and city council in Santa Barbara, and with a majority of seats at City Hall up for grabs, Josh Molina joins the genial host to handicap the races – and break down why they’re important in shaping crucial policies about the city’s future that hang in the balance.

David Starkey hosts Alden Nielsen to discuss his poetry career and influences. They explore how music impacts poetry and the importance of diverse literature. Nielsen shares insights on political themes in his work and his teaching experiences in China. He emphasizes introducing students to lesser-known works and addresses challenges in contemporary education. The conversation wraps up with advice for aspiring poets, stressing the value of persistence in writing.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

Trump's congressional allies this week passed legislation to hand complete control of Sable oil company's offshore operations in Santa Barbara to the U.S. Defense Department, a stunning development that Nick Welsh explains on this week's episode, joined by Callie Fausey who breaks down the Administration's aggressive effort to dismantle the Endangered Species Act, and by Josh Molina, who has the latest on the increasingly raucous conflict over rent control at City Hall. Plus: Josh's breakthrough moment as a social media star.

David Starkey discusses his novel, 'The Wonderful Poor Ghost,' which revolves around a plane crash involving a rock band. The story delves into themes of fame, loss, and creativity. Starkey shares his experiences in writing across genres, the art of suspense, and balancing humor with emotion. He also talks about his poetic background, character development, and upcoming projects, including a novel set in Japan and a post-apocalyptic tale.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

Kaitlin Sweeney joins the gang to reprise her newspress.com reporting about Topics A, B and C on Santa Barbara’s local news front this week – the tragic death of Bruce the English Bulldog at doggie day care – and the wave of online and real-life outrage and anger that erupted at the owners of the facility. Ryan P. Cruz previews next week’s big City Hall vote on rent control and Josh Molina offers his take of how the contentious issue is shaping the campaigns for mayor and city council. Plus: Indivisible’s voting right rally, back-to-school supplies campaign, and old people forced out at Veronica Springs.

Host Jerry Roberts interviews Cevin Cathell, candidate for Santa Barbara City Council, District 5After decades working on the production side of the film industry, first-time candidate Cevin Cathell says she wants to bring the organizational and budget skills she learned professionally to the task of representing District 5 on the Santa Barbara City Council. In the wide-open three-way race, she opposes rent control and most new taxes, and favors experimenting with allowing cars back on several blocks of upper State Street.

This episode of "The 805 Focus" features Lori Goodman, CEO of LEAP, discussing their impactful work supporting children and families in Santa Barbara County. LEAP provides a safe haven and essential resources, including the county's only diaper bank, for those affected by immigration and other challenges. Learn about their multigenerational approach, vital partnerships, and how they empower caregivers.

Explore the vital work of Channelkeeper with Executive Director Ted Morton. This episode delves into their 25-year commitment to protecting the coastal ecosystems of Santa Barbara and Ventura through impactful education and advocacy. Discover their extensive student programs, volunteer initiatives, and crucial efforts in monitoring and conservation.

Simon Kiefer transitions from urban planning to typewriter poetry, sharing his insights on affordable housing and the challenges he faced. He conducts creative workshops that highlight the tactile experience of typewriting and the emotional connections formed. Kiefer celebrates the joy of poetry in community events and emphasizes its accessibility, showcasing how his passion for typewriters and poetry impacts others.www.typewritersunlimited.comThe Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

Explore the impactful work of the Channel Islands YMCA with CEO Margo Byrne on "The 805 Focus." Discover their crucial initiatives in water safety, chronic disease management, and community building. Learn how the YMCA provides essential programs, from swimming lessons for children to support for cancer survivors and afterschool care, fostering a sense of belonging across three counties.

Explore the vital work of the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara with Executive Director Lori Willis. Learn about their commitment to providing state-of-the-art cancer care locally, funding essential programs at the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center, and supporting advancements like new PET/CT scanners. Discover how this 501(c)(3) nonprofit ensures patients receive comprehensive treatment without needing to travel.

Monica Mody shares her journey from India to becoming a poet and scholar at Pacifica Graduate Institute. She focuses on mythological studies, spirituality, and humanity's interconnectedness. Her poetry explores identity, migration, and ritual. Mody highlights the importance of listening to stories and how poetry can bridge divides. She discusses her creative process, the significance of revision, and her latest works centered on belonging and gratitude, encouraging others to embrace change and their own power.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

Join Dr. Cynder Sinclair as she interviews Michelle Erickson, Executive Director of Mothers Helpers. Discover how this vital Santa Barbara nonprofit provides essential baby items to families facing financial hardship. Learn about their donation process, volunteer opportunities, and impactful programs designed to support mothers and reduce parental burdens. Mothers Helpers is making a significant difference in our community.

David Starkey hosts Edward Humes, who shares his journey in journalism and discusses his books on crime and environmental issues. Humes highlights the challenges of recycling and the importance of social justice in storytelling. He presents innovative solutions for waste management, such as urban farming and renewable energy, while urging individuals to take action by growing their own food and reducing plastic use.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

David Starkey hosts Brian Tanguay to discuss their work with the California Review of Books and Tanguay's journey as a writer. Tanguay shares his experiences in the Air Force and how current political events shape literature. They delve into the challenges of writing about politics, the importance of reading, and the nature of book reviews, highlighting the role of writers in society amidst a complex political climate.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

In a one-on-one interview about his campaign for Santa Barbara mayor, City Council member Eric Friedman stresses fiscal restraint and his anti-rent control stance:"I'm in the center," Friedman says.

Sheriff Bill Brown’s shameful attack on a local immigration reporter and ICE’s loathsome Father’s Day raids on Santa Barbara neighborhoods take center stage on this week’s edition, as Sofia Wallace, Ryan Cruz and Josh Molina join the panel in also breaking down the latest on the eight-story monstrosity proposed to be built behind the Mission and the buzz over a new electric car charging station that just opened downtown. Plus: the genial host reveals how he once selflessly fired himself in order to put the Daily Nexus into the financial black.

Small business owner Colleen Macey and architect Cass Ensberg join the genial host to discuss the latest push to re-open downtown State Street to vehicular traffic, as the ad hoc State Street Business Alliance has launched a letter and petition campaign urging City Council to repeal legislation that formalized the street closure, which was originally enacted and intended only as a Covid-era emergency measure.

Leading off a new series of interviews with Nov. 3 election candidates for City Council and Mayor, former tech executive Monte Wilson discusses his opposition to rent control and the total closure to cars of downtown State Street, along with his economic development ideas for generating more revenue for City Hall.

Gillian Osborne shares her journey in writing and poetry, discussing her book 'Green, Green, Green'. She explores themes of motherhood and the creative process, highlighting the balance between observation and imagination. Osborne reflects on the challenges of writing while parenting and the role of ritual in creativity. She reads poetry excerpts, emphasizing color and nature, and encourages writers to continue their craft despite audience reception.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

On this week’s episode, Montecito Journal Editor Gwyn Lurie returns to recap her extraordinary public conversation with pioneering legal scholar Kimberle Crenshaw, highlighting the new series of public forums sponsored by her enterprise, as News-Press Editor Josh Molina reprises his reporting on the remarkable political developments swirling around the Santa Barbara City Council’s stumbling efforts to adopt a budget. Plus: all the latest on that big new project at the Paseo Nuevo mall.

David Starkey interviews Nick Welsh, exploring his writing journey, including Pulitzer nominations and local government coverage. Welsh shares his opinion piece writing approach, the significance of storytelling, and his editor's role. He discusses housing challenges at UCSB, mental health care shortages, and the Israel-Palestine conflict. Welsh emphasizes the need for improved communication from local leaders and the public's engagement with community issues.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

The shocking news this week that the city of Santa Barbara has spent through all its budget reserves not only re-shapes debate on major policy decisions, but also instantly transforms the race for mayor and three soon-to-be vacant city council seats, as Josh Molina and Sophia Wallace join the genial host in breaking down a big week of City Hall headlines, including a new plan to regulate vacation rentals, and preliminary approval of a major downtown project by the Music Academy that includes suspension of the once-sacrosanct 45-feet building height limit.

Anita Perez Ferguson shares her inspiring journey from a difficult childhood to becoming an author and political figure. She highlights her trilogy, Mission Bells, which reveals the untold stories of California's workers. Ferguson discusses resilience, the importance of education, and representation in literature, reflecting on her government experiences and the significance of community support. The themes of injustice, perseverance, and storytelling encourage others to share their narratives.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

On this week’s edition, our all-star panel of local journalists updates the Trump Administration’s real-life impacts on real people in Santa Barbara County, as Christina McDermott details how thousands of poor and elderly folks suddenly face food scarcity, and Ryan P. Cruz reprises his reporting on new data about federal immigration arrests locally - while Josh Molina has the latest as vote-counting slowly continues after Tuesday’s primary election. Plus: some rare good news about downtown Santa Barbara.

Laurie shares her journey with the instrument, discussing its beauty, costs, and the learning process. She recounts personal stories of performances, the challenges of playing, and the significance of proper technique. Rasmussen highlights her teaching methods, the versatility of her students, and the emotional connection music creates with audiences. She reflects on her travels and memorable experiences, including a lost harp, and offers insights into her teaching philosophy.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

Thirty-six hours before election results begin trickling in, Nick Welsh and Josh Molina join the genial host for a final rundown on the June 2 primary, as the three amigos break down final polling on the governor’s race, last-minute intel on the critical Board of Supervisors race for the Fifth District, the strange dynamics in the Assessor-Clerk-Recorder contest, an unusual challenge to a sitting judge, and a fearless forecast for at least one key match-up.

Rick Noguchi, CEO of California Humanities, joins this week’s edition of Newsmakers TV to discuss the impact of the Trump Administration’s massive DOGE cuts, which slashed crucial federal funding that his non-profit organization has counted on for half-a-century to make grants for programs around the state, including money in Santa Barbara for the Trust for Historical Preservation, the Historical Museum, the Public Library and the International Film Festival, among others. In emergency preservation mode, the group’s board is meeting here this week to strategize about how to keep their programming alive.

Glenn Phillips shares insights about his busy touring life and personal milestones, including marriage. He discusses the songwriting process, emphasizing collaboration and the influence of family on creativity. Vocal care and mindfulness play key roles in his music, as he highlights the emotional depth of his work. Phillips also describes a songwriting game that inspires him, showcasing how everyday observations fuel his artistic expression.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

This week’s laundry list of horrors the Trump Administration is inflicting upon the Central Coast leads off with ICE agents staging home invasions against immigration advocates in Ventura, continues to the government moving local litigation against Sable Offshore into federal court and winds up with the county facing an $11 million bill to pay for health care for poor people, as Ryan P. Cruz, Nick Welsh and Josh Molina join the genial host to also break down the latest news from City Hall, from rent control and the mayor’s race to the collapse of that deal for housing in the Paseo Nuevo mall.Open

Emily Lord-Kambitsch shares her journey as a poet and educator, highlighting her upbringing in Santa Barbara and her academic focus on classics and mythology. She discusses her poetry, which delves into themes of spirituality, agency, and personal growth. Cambi reads her work, touching on childhood, yoga, and societal issues, while emphasizing the blend of personal and collective narratives and the significance of humor in addressing serious topics.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

L.A. Times political columnist Mark Z. Barabak returns for a deep dive on the California governor’s race, breaking down the strengths and weaknesses of the front-runners – and offering some on-the-ground intel on the disconnect between what Actual Voters and the pundit class are focused on, 19 days before June 2 primary. Plus: insights about the national war over redistricting, Gavin Newsom’s nascent presidential campaign and Kamala Harris – WTAF.

Scott Devine shares his journey in theater, reflecting on his background and the pandemic's impact on the arts. He discusses the upcoming season at Ensemble Theater, emphasizing community support and engaging programming to draw audiences back. Devine highlights the importance of truth in storytelling and the unique themes of family, history, and cultural representation in the new plays, encouraging audiences to return for live performances.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

A blockbuster development planned for the Carpinteria Bluffs, a wind farm project torpedoed by the Trump Administration, and the latest twist in the Sable Oil saga all feature on this week’s episode of Newsmakers TV, as Callie Fausey returns to reprise her recent reporting on the environmental beat, and Josh Molina shares all the latest happenings and gossip on the political beat, less than a month before the June 2 primary.

Community activists Chuck Flacks and Charla Bregante join the genial host to discuss the mid-term elections and “Flip the Vote,” a nationwide grassroots organization aimed at helping blue state voters direct money and resources to crucial congressional swing districts that will determine whether Donald Trump and the MAGA movement continue to hold unchecked power in Washington.

TC Boyle shares insights about his life and writing, focusing on his new novel, Blue Skies. He discusses themes like climate change and personal experiences with nature. Boyle highlights how the weather affects mood and the challenges of living in disaster-prone areas. He emphasizes literature's role in exploring existential issues and human-environment interactions, while also reflecting on his teaching and social media engagement.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

After six years and more than 60 public hearings, the Santa Barbara City Council this week finally approved a master plan for State Street – but many, expensive hurdles remain, as Josh Molina, Ryan Cruz and Nick Welsh discuss with the genial host on this week’s edition. Plus: some high-quality political gossip, the latest on the community standoff with ICE and a new twist in the saga of that blockbuster housing development at the Mission.

Este foro para los candidatos a la Asamblea Estatal de California del Distrito 37 está siendo patrocinado por la League of Women Voters of Santa Barbara, junto con nuestros co-patrocinadores, la rama Santa Bárbara–Goleta de AAUW y la League of Women Voters of North Santa Barbara County. Les transmitimos desde el estudio de TVSB, en vivo a través de la página de Facebook de LWVSB y el canal de YouTube de LWVSB.La elección primaria crítica será el 2 de junio de 2026. Puede verificar que su registro de votante esté actualizado (su dirección, etc.) en voterstatus.sos.ca.gov. Si necesita actualizarlo, puede volver a registrarse para votar en registertovote.ca.gov. Todos los votantes registrados en California recibirán una boleta por correo, así que asegúrese de registrarse antes de la fecha límite del 18 de mayo para recibir su paquete de votación por correo.¡Por favor, recuerde votar!Silvia Uribe de TransilPro proporcionará interpretación simultánea en español. El evento será grabado por TVSB en inglés y en español, y la grabación se publicará en nuestro sitio web.

This forum for the Candidates for California Assembly’s 37th District is being sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Santa Barbara, together with our co-sponsors, the Santa Barbara – Goleta Valley branch of AAUW, and the League of Women Voters of North Santa Barbara County. We’re coming to you from the studio of TVWB, live-streaming on the LWVSB Facebook page and on the LWVSB YouTube channel.Critical primary election, June 2, 2026. You can check to make sure that your voter registration is up to date (your address, etc. is correct) at voterstatus.sos.ca.gov. If it needs to be updated, you can re-register to vote at registertovote.ca.gov. All registered voters in California will receive a ballot in the mail, so be sure to register by the May 18th deadline so that you receive your ballot packet in the mail.Please remember to vote!Silvia Uribe of TransilPro will provide simultaneous interpretation in Spanish. It will be recorded by TVSB in both English and Spanish and the recording will be posted on our website.

Joe Holland, the incumbent Clerk-Assessor-Recorder and voter registrar for Santa Barbara County, discusses how he oversees his $22 million department from home, an arrangement made necessary by serious health challenges. In a conversation with Josh Molina and the genial host, Holland defends his effectiveness against criticism from the Board of Supervisors - and campaign rival Melinda Greene - insisting he is available full-time by phone and text deputies to respond to any problems that arise.

Melinda Greene, the non-elective Chief Deputy in the Clerk-Recorder-Assessor’s office, in the June 2 primary is challenging Joe Holland, now seeking an unprecedented seventh term as head of the low-profile but consequential department, which also administers local elections. In a conversation with Josh Molina and the genial host, Greene says that her boss’s long-term physical absence from work is a crucial difference in the race, in a year when local elections officials are under direct threat from Donald Trump, and “being present” is essential to ensuring the integrity of voter ballots and information.

Explore the impactful work of the Santa Barbara Police Activities League (PAL) with Dr. Cynder Sinclair. Hear from Detective Luke Vorster and Judy Lugo about PAL's mission to foster positive youth-law enforcement relationships. Discover their free teen center, mentorship programs, and initiatives like the kitchen renovation, all designed to support and empower local youth.

This segment from 'The 805 Focus' features an insightful interview with Rob Fredericks, Executive Director of the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara. He details the critical affordable housing crisis and the proactive initiatives undertaken by HACSB. The discussion highlights ongoing developments, partnerships, and the significant waitlist, underscoring the urgent need for accessible housing solutions.

Explore the remarkable transformation of Elings Park in Santa Barbara with "The 805 Focus." Dr. Cynder Sinclair interviews Justin Bart and Bruce Giffin, highlighting the park's journey from a former dump to a thriving 240-acre nonprofit. Learn about their ambitious field renovation project, community fundraising efforts, and the diverse recreational and cultural offerings available to the public.

Emma Trelles shares her experiences as a poet, highlighting her Cuban heritage and the impact of language on her work. She discusses her role as a poet laureate and the importance of community and the creative process. Through readings of her poems, she connects her work to Florida and her grandmother, while encouraging aspiring poets to read widely and develop their unique voices.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv

Supervisors Roy Lee and Laura Capps return to Newsmakers TV to discuss the measures they passed this week in a bid to restrain and restrict ICE activities in the county and local elections. The two express concerns that violent federal deportation actions have created a “tinderbox” in the community and offer withering criticism of Sheriff Bill Brown’s failures to balance local concerns about safety and access with federal crackdown demands.

Carolyn Jabs | Board Chair & Lynn Karlson | Board MemberDiscover the impactful work of The Women's Fund, a collective giving circle empowering women to drive philanthropic change. Learn about their 22-year legacy of supporting nonprofits serving women, children, and families, and their new Small Grants Pilot Program designed for smaller organizations. Hear from Board Chair Carolyn Jabs about their rigorous research process and commitment to measurable impact.

Heather Behrens | Director of Marketing & Nova Jeswein | Youth Education & Volunteer ManagerExplore the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum with Nonprofit Connect's 805 Focus. Discover their extensive exhibits, including a Fresnel lens and an interactive children's area. Learn about their impactful educational programs, from "Maritime on the Move" to "floating classrooms," fostering a love for marine science and local history. The museum actively seeks volunteers to support its vital community outreach.