Mike Klan
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. –
CIF-SS Baseball Quarterfinals:
Division 4:
Dos Pueblos 11, Trinity Classical Academy 1
Thousand Oaks 6, Woodbridge 3 (DP hosts TO on Tuesday semifinals)
South Torrance 3, Pacifica 1
Division 5:
Camarillo 4, Long Beach Poly 3 (8 innings) (Cam at Elsinore on Tuesday semifinals)
Division 7:
Channel Islands 8, Norwalk 0
Grace 2, Don Bosco Tech 1
Division 8:
Fillmore 3, La Quinta/Westminster 2
Alissa Orozco
Get outside while you can! June Gloom is not too far away, and you don’t want to miss out on the warm weather and community fun. Here’s what’s going on this weekend near and far:
SANTA BARBARA – SOUTH COUNTY
Photo: Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Khruangbin A La Sala Tour ~ May 21st – 22nd in Santa Barbara
⏰ 7:00pm
🪩 It is almost impossible to fit Khruangbin into a singe genre, you’ll have to see it to believe it. The trio’s latest album, A La Sala, blends musical inspirations from around the globe and squeezes into a singular album that somehow feels like home. Catch Khruangbin at one or both nights at the bowl! Learn more here.
Butterflies Alive! Exhibit ~ Through September 1st in Santa Barbara
📍Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
⏰ 10:00am – 4:30pm
🪩 This community-favorite exhibit is starting up again this weekend! Walk alongside 1,000 live butterflies from more than two dozen species from Costa Rica! It’s a one of a kind experience you won’t want to miss out on this summer. Learn more here.
Climate Justice Film Series ~ Thursday, May 22nd in Santa Barbara
📍Santa Barbara Public Library – Faulkner Gallery
⏰ 4:00pm – 6:00pm
🪩 This film series gets the conversation going about climate change, social equity, and environmental justice through documentary films that highlights different facets of climate justice. The event is open to both adults and teens, and is followed by a group discussion. Learn more here.
39th Annual I Madonnari Street Painting Festival ~ May 24th – 26th in Santa Barbara
⏰ 10:00am – 6:00pm
🪩 This three-day festival showcases incredible local artists, while fundraising to arts education programs in schools throughout the county. Come see artists of all ages create street paintings, enjoy live entertainment and yummy food. Learn more here.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” ~ May 24th – 25th in Santa Barbara
📍Elings Park Godric Grove Amphitheater
⏰ 3:00pm
🪩 Back by popular demand, Theatricum Botanicum will put on two performances of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Get lost in the human and fairy realms, full of comic confusions, mistaken identities, and unrequited love. Learn more here.
Memorial Day Ceremony ~ Monday, May 26th in Santa Barbara
⏰ 11:00am
🪩 Take some time to remember those who have served the country this weekend. This ceremony will feature presentations and performances by the UCSB ROTC Color Guard, Gold Coast Pipe & Drum Band, David Gonzales and the Santa Barbara Choral Society, The Prime Time Band, and a flyover by The Condor Squadron. Learn more here.
SANTA MARIA – NORTH COUNTY
Photo: Santa Maria Civic Theatre
Books and Bubbles in the Park ~ Friday, May 23rd in Lompoc
⏰ 10:30am – 11:00am
🪩 Bring the kids out to the park for a bilingual storytime with Flower Queen Candidate, Maddie Koff! It’s a morning of literacy and bubble fun! Learn more here.
Rent Live ~ May 23rd – 25th in Santa Maria
⏰ Check for Showtimes
🪩 This local rendition of Rent brings Jonathan Larson’s iconic rock opera brings to life and to a stage near you! Taking place in the heart of New York City’s Lower East Side in the late 1980s, a group of young artists and musicians navigate love, loss, and the shadow of HIV/AIDS. Learn more here.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
Photo: Golden State Classics Car Show
Golden State Classics Car Show ~ Saturday, May 24th in Paso Robles
⏰ 9:00am – 2:00pm
🪩 This local car show will have over 300 classic cars and trucks on display, ranging from antiques to modern classics. Over 50 awards will be given out in various categories. The family can partake in a kids’ model building make & take, raffles, and much more! Learn more here.
Art in the Park ~ May 24th – 26th in Morro Bay
⏰ 10:00am – 5:00pm
🪩 This all-weekend event will have 100 booths showcasing 100 local artists and craftsmen. This the 71st show put on annually in the city of Morro Bay. Shop for unique finds, and grab some food and drinks while you’re at it! Learn more here.
Best of the West Antique Equipment Show ~ May 24th – 25th in Atascadero
⏰ 8:00am – 5:00pm
🪩 Come see the history of agriculture and transportation and see antique tractors, engines, cars, steam trains, airplanes and much more. The family can take train rides, view presentations, and view parades! Learn more here.
Circus of Horror ~ Thursday, May 24th in Templeton
📍Templeton Performing Arts Center
⏰ 6:00pm
🪩 If you’re in the mood for a spook, this show is just for you. Features daring acrobatics, dramatic lighting, sinister clowns, death-defying stunts, and a haunting atmosphere, this show is one you won’t want to miss. Especially designed for teens and adults who enjoy suspense, thrills, and a touch of the macabre. Learn more here.
Movie Night on the Rocks ~ Sunday, May 25th in Pismo Beach
⏰ 7:45pm
🪩 It’s movie night with a view! The cliff-side hotel with be hosting a movie night featuring Moana 2! Bring your own blankets, lawn chairs, and your favorite lawn setup for a cozy night under the stars. Learn more here.
VENTURA COUNTY
Anime Wonder California ~ May 24th – 25th in Ventura
⏰ 12:00pm
🪩 This anime and gaming convention brings together fans who love everything anime, manga, cosplay, fandom and more! Dive into the world of Asian culture with Asian cuisine, performances, art, music, and entertainment. Learn more here.
Simi Summer Days Carnival ~ May 23rd – 26th in Simi Valley
⏰ Check for start times
🪩 It definitely feels like summer on the Central Coast, especially with Simi Valley’s annual carnival back in town! Enjoy classic carnival food, treats, games, all with free admission and parking! Save money on ride tickets by buying online. Learn more here.
Gold Coast Gem Show ~ May 24th – 25th in Ventura
⏰ 10:00am – 5:00pm | 10:00am – 4:00pm
🪩 Shop and learn about various gems, minerals, fossils, and jewelry from over 30 vendors. They have much to do in addition to the gems – activities for the kids, raffles, a teachers station, and much more. Learn more here.
Memorial Day Ceremony ~ Monday, May 26th in Oxnard
⏰ 11:00am
🪩 The Oxnard community is paying their respects to those who have served in a special Memorial Day service. Coordinated with Disabled American Veterans – Ventura Chapter 24, Knights of Columbus Oxnard Council 750, Gold Star Mothers, Military Officers Association of America Ventura County Chapter, Port of Hueneme, Ben Moreell Sea Cadets Color Guard, Oxnard High School Air Force Jr. ROTC, and the Channel Islands High School Raiders Band. Learn more here.
Chris Isaak ~ Saturday, May 24th in Ojai
⏰ 6:30pm
🪩 American singer and actor will be performing in Ojai this weekend performing some of his most well-known hits including, “Wicked Game” and ” Blue Hotel!” Over the course of his three-decade career, Chris Isaak has performed to sold-out crowds across the globe with his longtime band Silvertone. Learn more here.
News Channel 3-12
Below is a press release from The City of Santa Barbara regarding applications for this year’s Children’s Fiesta Parade
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department is accepting applications for the annual Children’s Fiesta Parade (Desfile de los Niños), a cherished family-friendly event during the week-long Old Spanish Days Fiesta Celebration. The parade, now in its 93rd year, will be held on Saturday, August 2, on Cabrillo Boulevard.
The Children’s Fiesta Parade has been a tradition for many local families, with some participating for five generations. Families, friends, and youth organizations create and decorate their floats, carts, and wagons each year to join the lively foot-powered parade. Participants typically dress in colorful costumes, with music and dance performances throughout the route to add to the fun along Santa Barbara’s waterfront.
All children are welcome to be part of the parade, and there is no cost to participate. Ice cream will be provided at the end of the route for all participants.
Applications must be submitted by Sunday, July 6, 2025.
To learn more and apply, visit Children’s Fiesta Parade (SantaBarbaraCA.gov/ChildrensParade).
KESQ
YUCCA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) – Days after Saturday’s bombing in Palm Springs, News Channel 3 is sitting down with the father of the suspect, Richard Bartkus.
In disbelief, he says his son, Guy Edward Bartkus, was a good and smart kid.
Despite the bombing, he believes his son meant no harm to anyone.
“I know he wouldn’t kill anybody. That’s the reason I think, they want to know where he was at from 6 and 11. I know where he was at, he was checking out. Nobody else died… Guy was making sure there was no cars on Indian Canyon.”
Richard Bartkus, father
But he says looking back, there were signs something wasn’t right.
An “impressionable” kid, he said one time his son burned the family house down after learning a match trick at school. He also thinks the divorce between mom and dad impacted his son greatly, admitting it was hard and involved many arguments.
During the sit-down, a sense of guilt emerged.
“Mom was a little lenient than I was. I was strict, I kept an eye on Guy… That’s probably the reason why I haven’t talked to him in the past 10 years.”
Richard Bartkus, father
Richard says he’s been trying to get in contact with FBI officials and his daughter and ex-wife, who both lived with his son in Twentynine Palms.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.
Ryder Christ
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Amy Weaver has taken the helm as CEO of Direct Relief, the Santa Barbara-based nonprofit known for delivering lifesaving medical aid to vulnerable communities across the globe.
Weaver brings extensive corporate and nonprofit experience to the role. She previously served as president and chief financial officer at Salesforce and was a board member for Habitat for Humanity International. She said her goal now is to apply those strategic and operational skills to maximize human impact.
“I’m going from really focusing on maximizing profits to maximizing human impact,” Weaver said. “But a lot of those skills are the same. It’s strategic focus, it’s financial responsibility, operational excellence. It is a constant focus on innovation, and above all, it’s trust.”
Weaver succeeds Thomas Tighe, who served as CEO for 24 years and led the organization through transformative growth. Under Tighe’s leadership, Direct Relief became the fifth-largest charity in the United States and one of the world’s largest providers of donated medications.
“Direct Relief has been through multiple administrations. We’ve been through a pandemic. There have been multiple civil conflicts around the world. In every case, Direct Relief has navigated them beautifully and only grown,” Weaver said. “That’s what I want to see in the future.”
Since last July, Direct Relief has distributed nearly $2 billion in medical aid, shipped nearly 4 million pounds of medicine and supplies, and delivered close to 300 million doses of medicine worldwide. The organization was recently awarded the 2025 Seoul Peace Prize for its global humanitarian contributions.
“Every pallet of medicine that we ship out, every partnership we make—it’s not just logistics, it’s a lifeline for the people that we serve,” she said. “My role now is to see how we scale that and bring it to even more people.”
Weaver said her decision to take the job amid overlapping global crises was driven by a sense of urgency and opportunity.
“I’ve had quite a few people say, ‘Aren’t you picking the worst moment in history to jump into humanitarian aid?’ But I honestly think it’s the best,” she said. “I mean, the scale, the immensity of the needs right now—and the needs are just growing every single day—but that means the opportunity to make a difference, the opportunity to actually be part of the solution, is even more meaningful.”
She recalled a recent visit from a longtime partner in Haiti that reaffirmed Direct Relief’s reputation for listening first and acting with purpose.
“He said that Direct Relief really stood out to him because we didn’t just send them what we thought they needed—we listened, and we heard what they needed,” Weaver said.
Though Direct Relief operates in more than 100 countries, Weaver emphasized the nonprofit’s deep roots in Santa Barbara, where it was founded 76 years ago.
Weaver said she was inspired by the Direct Relief mural at the Santa Barbara airport when she first visited the area and made it a priority to visit a local clinic early in her tenure. She recently met with Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics’ Chief Executive Officer Mahdi Ashrafian.
Weaver said she plans to meet with community leaders, clinic directors, and residents to build on Direct Relief’s longstanding relationship with the region.
“It’s really a joy for me to be able to bring these skills to an organization that’s just so deeply human,” she said.
Mike Klan
FULLERTON, Calif. – Griffin Naess pitched 6 2/3 innings of shutout ball and Ryan Fenn had four hits with 2 RBI as Cal Poly beat host Cal State Fullerton 7-2 to move into the winner’s bracket at the Big West Championship.
The #2 seed Mustangs will play top-seed UC Irvine on Friday at 3 p.m. The Anteaters beat Hawai’i 7-5.
This is a double-elimination tournament with the winner getting an automatic berth into the NCAA Regionals.
The Mustangs scored 3 runs in the second inning to take a 4-0 lead highlighted by a solo home run by Casey Murray Jr.
Ryann Fenn had run-scoring single in that uprising and another RBI in the fifth inning with a double to score Zach Daudet who had 3 hits with 2 runs scored.
Cam Hoiland also had 3 hits for Cal Poly with two runs scored while Dante Vachini had 2 RBI on 2 hits.
Naess scattered 8 hits and struck out 4 for the Mustangs who improve to 38-16.
Mike Klan
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. –
CIF-State Division 3 Boys Volleyball Regional Semifinal:
Clairemont 3, Santa Ynez 2
CIF-Central Section Division 3 Semifinal Softball:
Pioneer Valley 1, Kerman 0 (PV plays Wasco/Liberty winner in final on May 29)
CIF-Central Section Division 5 Semifinal Softball:
Orcutt Academy 1, Hoover 0 (Orcutt vs Dos Palos in final on May 30).
Mike Klan
SANTA YNEZ, Calif. – The Santa Ynez Pirates came so close to extending this championship boys volleyball season.
But the Pirates lost a heartbreaker to Clairemont of San Diego in a home five-set CIF-State Division 3 Regional Semifinal.
The Pirates fell 20-25, 26-24, 21-25, 25-19, 13-15.
Santa Ynez won the CIF-Central Section Division 2 championship last week and finishes the season 22-4.
John Palminteri
CARPINTERIA, Calif. – The newest shopping and dining area on the South Coast has opened in Carpinteria with Linden Square.
The project replaces a closed hardware store, small shops and a liquor store from Seventh Street to Eight Street in the heart of town.
Linden Square Co-Owner and Developer Terry Huggins said he started the project concept by getting to know the town, the people, the history and designs that would be a good fit. There is also an economic boost that will significantly help the city. “I would guess that we’re going to be adding at least $600,000 a year to the city’s coffers in the sales tax, maybe higher, and it’ll certainly go up as as the businesses ramp up, the sales.”
Some of the businesses are open and some are finishing their construction and finalizing permits.
Kris Parker at Third Window Brewing is bringing his popular Haley Street concept in Santa Barbara to Carpinteria, with the bar and many tables facing the street. They filled up fast. “The venue itself is incredible. Yes, it is. It’s a great courtyard. How close it is to the beach to the sea breeze. It’s pretty unbelievable”.
Thursday afternoon it was full of customers enjoying their menu items including some chicken wings that were coming from a smoker on site. Third Window has 27 taps at its bar.
During the opening events and ribbon cutting, Terry Hickey Banks spoke. Her family owned the property. The history was reflected in a piece of art she held up. “This photograph (art) of the original Hickey Brothers General Merchandise store was right here in Carpinteria in the late 1800’s.” The painting was done by John Wullbrandt an honored Carpinteria artist when he was in high school more than 50 years ago.
Huggins of Anacapa Development and Matt LaBrie are the first new owners of the Linden Plaza property in 128 years, taking over from the Hickey Banks Family Trust.
Checking out the various businesses and designs, Deborah Picard said, “it totally fits into Carpinteria in my opinion with the natural organic materials and the flooring. And it’s just beautiful. It’s definitely a beachy vibe.”
IKatz and Pearls store owner Janet Tanzman said, “I think like they’ll draw more people, which is good for all our other businesses. We have a local business.”
The project is seven blocks from the beach. “It’s a gathering place that captures Caprinteria’s iconic coastal vibe and small-town charm,” says LaBrie.
A corner spot features Channel Islands Surfboards with the top of the line boards made in a manufacturing site around the corner.
Britt Merrick said, “we’ve got everything from, ten-foot nose riders down to high performance fishes like this and high performance surfboards made for the best waves in the world. “It’s a rich surf culture and lifestyle here. And, you know, it’s just such a beautiful place. I think businesses are going to thrive here.” Merrick said he was born in Carpinteria and is happy to be open with his surfboards for sale in the city.
Music in the courtyard is going to be a regular soundtrack for those dining and lounging inside or out.
Local artist Benjamin Anderson’s massive mural honors the natural habitat and wildlife in and around Carpinteria. The six panels on the south side of the building each represent one aspect of Carpinteria’s natural habitat and its animals.
For more information go to: Linden Square
A news release says the Linden Square tenants include:
Tina’s:
Tina’s is the little sister restaurant of Bettina in Montecito. With the same naturally leavened crust and creative, thoughtfully sourced toppings, it’s the perfect spot to grab a pizza, salad, and a bottle of wine for enjoying in the courtyard on Linden Ave, at the beach, or for takeaway at home. In addition, Tina’s has a lovely provision shop featuring their meticulously made condiments and sauces, grab-and-go salads and sandwiches, Italian specialty items and a wide assortment of consciously produced organic, biodynamic and natural wines. Come enjoy their delicious simplicity, warm hospitality and the sense of community they’ve come to be known for at Bettina.
Dart’s Coffee:
Erika Carter and David Dart bring their touted Santa Barbara coffee to Carpinteria. It’s coffee to be enjoyed and felt good about – with ethical craft-roasted, sourcing only the finest organic, fair-trade coffee beans from small-lot indigenous farmers. They are passionate about their craft and giving back. A percentage of every bean sold will help sustain artist studios in Santa Barbara’s diverse art districts.
Corazon Cocina:
While growing up in Guadalajara, Mexico, Chef Ramon Velazquez’s mother and grandmother taught him how to make traditional Mexican dishes. Now, he creates these meals, inspired by local markets that are traditional but also innovative, using out-of-the-box ideas to keep diners on their toes. Favorites include the cheesy, griddled taco piled with grilled octopus, white shrimp, and avocado.
Channel Island Surfboards:
Nothing is more quintessentially Central Coast than this! Channel Island Surfboards was founded in 1969 by Al and Terry Merrick in Santa Barbara and has become a leading brand in the surf industry. It is known for its innovative designs, high-quality craftsmanship, and providing surfers worldwide with equipment that enhances performance across all wave conditions. Locals and visitors alike will love the proximity to shopping the diverse range of models catering to various surfing styles and conditions.
Olada Yoga and Pilates:
This locally owned and operated establishment welcomes residents to join a community committed to cultivating joy, connection, and well-being. The studio offers a variety of yoga and reformer pilates classes and a boutique shopping experience in an exquisitely curated environment.
Third Window Brewing Co. :
Settle in and enjoy a beer from this Santa Barbara-based brewery committed to “the cultivation of local ingredients, our community, and each other.” The diverse menu of delicious food and extensive beer selection makes it the perfect spot for a laid-back Saturday afternoon. Whether craving a crisp lager, a rich stout, or something in between, their brews have it covered.
MĀCHER:
Hailing from Goleta, with their love of community, owners Lex and Josh created MĀCHER, a small local shop for locals, supporting small-batch artisans and makers from all disciplines. It holds a mix of thoughtful gifts and a curated selection of beautiful, functional, and sustainably made home, baby, and beach goods. This second store, in Carpinteria, continues to inspire gatherings through inviting spaces, beautiful table spreads, and deepening relationships.
The Shopkeepers:
This popular Santa Barbara Funk Zone store features diverse goods for men and women, including apparel, accessories, home decor, art, and lifestyle products. “Curious Good for Curious People” – enjoy shopping that does not disappoint!
Ryder Christ
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – More than 1,000 people came together Thursday evening at a candlelight vigil to honor three Dos Pueblos High School students who were tragically killed in a head-on crash on Highway 1.
“You are not alone in this truth, you are not alone in this,” said Principal Bill Woodard, addressing the silent crowd with visible emotion. “To the boys’ families and closest friends — we are here with you. Your pain is our pain, and your sons will always be a part of the Dos Pueblos community.”
The victims — 18-year-old Jake Curtis of Goleta, 17-year-old Michael Ochsner, and 15-year-old Alexander Wood, both of Santa Barbara — worked together in the county’s Junior Lifeguard Program and had spent Sunday at Jalama Beach before the deadly crash.
The Greek Theatre at the school was filled with candlelight, tears, and heartfelt tributes. More than a dozen of the boys’ friends and family members spoke.
“Beautiful ceremony tonight. We are a community that lifts each other up. Much love to the friends and families,” the school wrote in an Instagram post.
View this post on Instagram
