Winning Images 2026
Santa Maria Sun
June 18, 2026
Calling all shutterbugs! The Santa Maria Sun is once again inviting local photographers to submit their best work for the annual Winning Images 2026 contest. From stunning Central Coast landscapes to candid street portraits, this beloved tradition showcases the unique beauty and quirky charm of our region. Whether you capture a dramatic sunset over Point Sal or a playful otter at the Santa Maria River mouth, this is your chance to see your work celebrated across the 805.
Submissions are open across several categories, including Animals, Landscape/Seascape, In Motion, and People. Past winners have turned everyday moments into art—think fog rolling over the Santa Ynez Valley or a surfer carving through a wave at Jalama Beach. Entries are judged by a panel of local experts, so polish your portfolio and share your vision. It’s a wonderful way to connect with fellow photographers and show off why we love living here.
This summary was written by AI based on the original article from Santa Maria Sun.
City
Santa MariaSource
Santa Maria SunPublished
June 18, 2026
AI-curated summary from local news sources
Explore Santa MariaAll Santa Maria NewsMore News from Santa Maria
Santa MariaA courthouse divided: Assembly Bill 46 gives judges more discretion in mental health cases
A new state law signed this week is changing how local judges handle mental health cases in Santa Maria. Assembly Bill 46, which received bipartisan support, gives judges more discretion to offer treatment-based alternatives to jail for criminal offenders diagnosed with a mental illness. The Santa Maria Sun reports the law redefines what judges can consider when a defendant applies for mental health diversion, potentially shifting how our courts balance accountability with care. For Santa Maria residents, this could mean a more compassionate approach to justice — one that prioritizes rehabilitation over incarceration for those struggling with mental illness. The law doesn't mandate diversion, but it opens the door for judges to make case-by-case decisions. As our community continues to grow, this change reflects a broader conversation about how we support vulnerable individuals while maintaining public safety.
Santa MariaJudge rejects Solvang’s request to dismiss a developer’s lawsuit
A judge has denied Solvang’s attempt to toss out a lawsuit from local developer Ed St. George, keeping the legal battle over a stop-work order alive. Santa Barbara County Superior Court Judge James F. Rigali overruled the city’s dismissal request in mid-July, meaning Solvang’s legal team now has until Aug. 3 to respond. The lawsuit stems from a dispute that has caught the attention of many in the Santa Ynez Valley, where development decisions often stir strong feelings about balancing growth with the town’s Danish character. For Central Coast residents, this case is more than a courtroom tussle—it’s about how local governments handle development disputes. The Santa Maria Sun first reported the ruling, highlighting how Solvang’s charm and economic needs are clashing in real time. Whether you’re a business owner or a longtime resident, the outcome could shape future projects in the 805 area.
Santa MariaLompoc changes how it bills wastewater customers
Heads up, Lompoc neighbors: the way your wastewater bill is calculated is getting a refresh. At the July 21 City Council meeting, Management Services Director Bob Cross explained that while the method is changing, the basic premise remains the same—your bill will still be tied to your water usage. If you see a higher charge, Cross assured it would have happened under the old system too. This isn’t a drastic overhaul, but it’s worth keeping an eye on your next statement. The Santa Maria Sun reported the debate got a little slippery, as council members worked through the details. For Lompoc residents, it’s a reminder that even small shifts in city billing can affect household budgets—so stay tuned and check your next bill closely.