Today’s newsletter is presented by Goodwin & Thyne Properties.
Twenty years ago today, Jerry Roberts and a team of editors resigned from the Santa Barbara News-Press in bold and brave defense of journalism and the separation between fact-based news and company ownership.
July 6, 2006 is a day when careers—and lives—changed forever. It marked the start of what is known as the “News-Press meltdown,” and the decline and eventual bankruptcy of the storied paper. You can read more of the history here.
You can also watch the saga unfold in Sam Tyler’s incredible documentary here.
But thankfully, July 6, 2026 is a new day. The News-Press is now a growing nonprofit newsroom, re-dedicated to providing excellent, important news for our community. I joined as editor last year to help lead the paper into a new era.
I was born in Goleta and was originally hired by the New York Times-owned Santa Barbara News-Press in 1999.
Along with General Manager Will Belfiore, we are rebuilding a stellar team and we are forever grateful for all of your support.
We will have coverage of the News-Press throughout July as we remember the 20-year anniversary of the meltdown. We’re also planning a former employee reunion later this month to get the former News-Press team back together to share some memories.
Santa Barbara journalism is experiencing a renaissance, both online and on social media. We’re happy to be here, looking forward, optimistic about the future.
Coffee in the Newsroom: Just a reminder, this Friday we invite you to meet the growing News-Press staff for Coffee in the Newsroom, from 9 a.m. to noon, 1219 State St. We’d love to see you!
Joshua Molina
News-Press Editor
Top read of the day
Santa Barbara Public Market emerges as community hub during World Cup games
By Viviana Ruiz • Santa Barbara News-Press
The Public Market has been a space where many feel honored or connected while watching the games. The market was packed on Sunday for the Mexico vs. England nailbiter of a game.
5 stories people are talking about
Local voices
“Even on Taco Tuesday it’s dead.”
— Maria Mayo, owner of Maria’s Tacos, who typically sees up to 200 customers on a normal day during the school year, but this summer averages 30 customers per day—a roughly 85% decline.
Must watch
Final thought: Check out our 4th of July fireworks coverage in Santa Barbara.
