Some stories stick. They unfold slowly over time and are a constant source of news. We’ve been covering some of those in the Santa Maria Valley since this paper was founded in 2000. For 26 years, Sun reporters have watched and written about Santa Maria’s downtown—complaints about how the mall killed it, how the city wants it to become more pedestrian friendly, and recent strides toward redevelopment. And we’ve also covered things like Mayor Alice Patino’s more than 26 years on the City Council and the evolution of the North Branch Jail. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood gets into all three issues to celebrate our 26th birthday.
Also, find stories about local high schools’ new AI guidelines; a conversation with the Sun’s longtime cartoonist; and the pizza spot celebrating 30 years of Alaskan comfort on the Central Coast.
—Camillia Lanham
One byline after another: Some of the Sun’s earliest story subjects are still worth writing about
By Caleb Wiseblood
‘Active repose:’ For 26 years, the Sun has pursued thoughtful coverage, welcoming and including all voices
By Camillia Lanham
The right pen: A few words from the Sun’s political cartoonist
By Madison White
Memory lane: In 30-plus years, Klondike Pizza
has hardly changed a bit
By Madison White
This article appears in March 26 – April 2, 2026.