Ryan P. Cruz, Author at The Santa Barbara Independent

Photo By Ryan P. Cruz | Wed Dec 24, 2025 | 5:17pm

Christmas Eve Storm Passes Santa Barbara Without Major Damage

Flooding was reported on surface streets, though shoppers still visited downtown Santa Barbara on December 24, 2025.

Public Safety By Ryan P. Cruz | Wed Dec 24, 2025 | 8:44am

Heavy rains are expected to last through Christmas Day; evacuation warnings remain in place for Lake Fire burn scar area.

Immigration By Ryan P. Cruz | Mon Dec 22, 2025 | 4:47pm

Immigrant rights advocates and organizers blast SBCC’s Board of Trustees for the college’s lack of response to recent ICE incidents.

Community By Ryan P. Cruz | Mon Dec 22, 2025 | 3:06pm

Members Only Barber Shop continues the tradition of big and bright holiday storefront displays for its 30th year.

Sports By Ryan P. Cruz | Thu Dec 18, 2025 | 10:48am

A dedicated youth sports facility and indoor gym is slated to be built on Hollister Avenue in 2027.

Housing By Ryan P. Cruz | Wed Dec 17, 2025 | 9:31am

City council outlined a plan for a citywide rent cap, including a potential rent increase moratorium.

Public Safety By Ryan P. Cruz | Tue Dec 16, 2025 | 12:13pm

Police Chief Kelly Gordon assures the public that data is not being used for immigration enforcement purposes.

Community By Ryan P. Cruz | Mon Dec 15, 2025 | 2:15pm

Santa Barbara City Planning Commissioners ask the Bellosguardo Foundation to allow discounted or free access to low-income visitors.

Immigration By Ryan P. Cruz | Thu Dec 11, 2025 | 9:37pm

Federal immigration enforcement sets up in a campus parking lot prior to making several arrests in the Westside neighborhood.

Sports By Ryan P. Cruz | Tue Dec 09, 2025 | 4:10pm

Visit Santa Barbara and UCSB collaborate to host international match between U.S. and Chile on January 27, 2026.