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Westlake VillageJury tags Grossman, Erickson with additional $22.17M in punitive damages
The civil trial stemming from the 2020 tragedy that claimed the lives of two young Westlake Village brothers, Jacob and Zachary Iskander, reached another somber milestone this week. Jurors in Van Nuys Superior Court on June 10 ordered an additional $22.17 million in punitive damages against Rebecca Grossman and Scott Erickson, bringing the total judgment against the defendants to over $47 million. The award, reported by The Acorn (Westlake Village), is meant to punish the conduct that led to the fatal traffic collision that has shaken our community for years. For Westlake Village families, this case has been a painful reminder of the dangers on our local roads and the profound cost of reckless driving. While no amount of money can bring back the Iskander boys, this verdict sends a clear message about accountability. The community continues to rally around the Iskander family, and many hope this legal conclusion brings a measure of closure as our neighborhood heals from this devastating loss.
Paso RoblesPaso Robles hotel promotes new executive chef
Big news for Paso Robles food lovers: The Ava Hotel has promoted Casey McMinn to executive chef, just in time for its August 2025 opening. McMinn, who joined as chef de cuisine, brings a fresh perspective to the hotel’s dining program — and that’s exciting for anyone who’s been watching downtown Paso’s culinary scene evolve. With The Ava set to become a new anchor on the square, McMinn’s promotion signals the hotel is serious about creating a destination restaurant, not just hotel food. Locals will want to keep an eye on this. For more, check Paso Robles Daily News.
Paso RoblesPaso Robles schools provide free meals to students through July
Starting June 9, kids and teens in Paso Robles can grab free breakfast and lunch at several spots around town, thanks to the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District’s summer meals program. It runs through July, making sure no student goes hungry when school’s out. This is a big deal for our community, especially for families feeling the pinch of rising costs. With summer break here, knowing your child can get a nutritious meal at places like the library or local parks takes a weight off parents’ shoulders. The Paso Robles Daily News shared the details, and it’s a reminder of how we look out for each other on the Central Coast.
Paso RoblesLocal vineyard names new vineyard manager, expands leadership team
Big changes are sprouting up at ONX Wines, where a fresh face and a familiar one are taking the reins in the vineyard. Tucker Robertson has stepped in as the new vineyard manager, while Drew Nenow has been promoted to a leadership role, together overseeing the estate vineyards across Paso Robles' renowned wine regions. It's a quiet but meaningful shift for our local wine scene — one that speaks to the care and expertise behind every bottle we enjoy. As Paso Robles continues to cement its reputation as a world-class wine destination, moves like this remind us that it all starts in the soil. The Paso Robles Daily News first shared the news, and it's a great reminder to raise a glass to the folks who make our local industry thrive.
Santa BarbaraHeat Advisory issued June 10 at 5:52AM PDT until June 10 at 7:00PM PDT by NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA
It's going to be a scorcher today, friends. The National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard has issued a Heat Advisory for our inland Central Coast communities, including San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, effective until 7:00 PM this evening. According to KEYT News Channel 3-12, temperatures are expected to climb significantly, especially in areas away from the immediate coast. If you're in places like Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, or the inland valleys of SLO County, please take it easy. Stay hydrated, check on elderly neighbors and pets, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the peak afternoon hours. The marine layer might offer some relief near the beaches, but inland spots will feel the full force of this early summer heat wave. Let's look out for each other and stay cool until this advisory lifts.
Santa BarbaraMiss Ventura heads to the Miss California competition in hopes of bringing home the title
Hayley Hunt, Miss Ventura, is heading to Santa Barbara this week for the Miss California competition, marking her final year of eligibility in the Miss America organization. A familiar face in the 805 since her teen years, Hunt was first crowned Miss Ventura in 2015 and has been representing our region with grace ever since. Now in her late 20s, she's bringing years of experience and local pride to the stage. As the competition unfolds right here on the Central Coast, it's a wonderful chance for the community to rally behind one of our own. KEYT News Channel 3-12 reports on her journey, and whether she brings home the title or not, Hunt's dedication to Ventura County and the 805 is something worth celebrating. Let's cheer her on as she takes this final shot at the crown!
San Luis ObispoUpdated San Luis Obispo County election results
The latest tally from the SLO County Clerk-Recorder’s office shows local candidates extending their leads as another 11,600 ballots were counted. This update brings us closer to a final picture of our local races, with the next count expected Wednesday evening and certification by June 15. It’s a reminder that every vote truly matters here on the Central Coast — especially in tight local contests that shape our schools, roads, and community services. For those watching the state-level races, the governor’s primary is also taking shape, with Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton emerging as frontrunners. But as always, our neighbors here in San Luis Obispo County are most focused on the local leaders who will represent our towns. CalCoastNews has been tracking these returns closely, and we’ll keep you posted as the final numbers come in.
Santa BarbaraUC Santa Barbara’s Jackson Flora Earns National Pitcher of the Year Honor, All-West Region Selection
Big news for baseball fans on the Central Coast: UC Santa Barbara’s Jackson Flora has been named National Pitcher of the Year and earned All-West Region honors. The Gaucho ace is now projected to be the top pitcher taken in the upcoming MLB Draft — a rare and exciting milestone for our local college sports scene. Flora’s dominance on the mound this season has put UCSB baseball in the national spotlight, and it’s a proud moment for Santa Barbara. As reported by the Santa Barbara Independent, this recognition reflects not just individual talent but the strength of the program at UCSB. For locals who’ve watched Gaucho baseball at Caesar Uyesaka Stadium, seeing one of our own rise to the top of the draft board is a thrill. Keep an eye on draft day — Jackson Flora could be the next big name to come out of the 805.
Santa BarbaraWhere to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Santa Barbara County
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is finally here, and it's a historic one — 48 teams, three host countries, and plenty of reasons for Santa Barbara County soccer fans to gather and cheer. Whether you're rooting for the USMNT or just love the global spectacle, local bars and pubs are gearing up for watch parties. Noozhawk has the full rundown on where to catch the matches, from sports bars in Santa Barbara to hidden gems in Goleta and Carpinteria. This tournament only comes around every four years, and with games spanning time zones, there's bound to be an early-morning or late-night viewing spot near you. It's a chance to connect with neighbors and celebrate the world's game right here on the Central Coast. Check out Noozhawk's guide to plan your World Cup experience — and maybe make a new friend over a goal.
San Luis ObispoSanta Barbara County nurse charged with 77 felonies
A Santa Barbara County nurse is facing 77 felony charges after allegedly running an unlicensed in-home health care business that exploited elderly clients. Rosanne Marquis, 71, is accused of theft, elder abuse, and tax violations dating back to 2019. The case, reported by CalCoastNews, raises serious concerns for Central Coast families who rely on home care for aging loved ones. While the charges are based in Santa Barbara, the story hits close to home for San Luis Obispo residents. Many of us have parents or neighbors receiving in-home care, and this case is a stark reminder to verify credentials and licensing. Local elder care advocates urge families to check California's Department of Social Services database before hiring. It's a tough lesson, but one that could prevent similar heartbreak here.
Thousand OaksGHK-Cu: A Trimeric Signal at the Intersection of Regeneration, Genomic Modulation, and Systems Coordination
Did you catch that fascinating piece in the Thousand Oaks Acorn about GHK-Cu? It's a tiny copper-binding peptide—just three amino acids—but researchers are buzzing about its potential to support wound healing and even modulate gene expression. For a community that values wellness and aging gracefully, this isn't just lab jargon; it's a peek into how science is catching up with nature's own repair kit. While we enjoy our local hikes and farmers markets, it's good to know that discoveries like GHK-Cu are quietly reshaping what's possible in regenerative health. The Acorn continues to bring us these deep dives that connect our lifestyle to cutting-edge science—no PhD required.
Santa BarbaraCollege of Creative Studies Leads 2026 Commencement Ceremonies
Seventy-four of UC Santa Barbara's most creative minds officially became alumni this past Sunday at Campbell Hall, kicking off the 2026 commencement season in style. The College of Creative Studies led the charge, celebrating students who pushed boundaries in everything from art to science. It's a proud moment for Isla Vista and Santa Barbara, where this tight-knit program has long been a hidden gem for independent thinkers. As the first UCSB commencement of the year, this ceremony sets the tone for a season of achievement across the 805. Whether you're a proud parent, a future applicant, or just love seeing local talent shine, it's a reminder of the innovation brewing right here on the Central Coast. Noozhawk captured the full story of this milestone day.
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