TV Santa Barbara Celebrates its 50th Year of Broadcasting and Sharing Truth and Empowerment

TV Santa Barbara Celebrates Its Golden Anniversary Through Honorees and Entertainment at SOhO – by Ella Bailey

Television by the people, for the people! The mission of the Santa Barbara local news channel, TV Santa Barbara (TVSB), is to empower people to make media that matters. Commemorating 50 years of broadcasting since its inception in 1975, the nonprofit organization hosted its Golden Anniversary Celebration on June 13, honoring its history, its founder, and contributors, as well as groundbreaking local stories. The event began with a cocktail hour at the Community Environmental Council Building and then moved on to SOhO Restaurant and Music Club for an engaging media awards dinner and live auction. To keep the groove going, a 70s-themed dance party closed the evening with the TVSB All Star Band led by Hector Hurtado. Tickets for the afterparty were open to the public, and festive costumes were donned on the dance floor.

The night was marked by awards given to people who built TVSB and carried on its legacy of uncommercialized news access for Santa Barbara. TVSB Executive Director Erik Davis introduced the community leaders and content creators, as well as emceed the event. Board Chair Meighann Helene was given an Emeritus Award and provided a thought-provoking speech. She emphasized a call for continued free media access and voices, especially during this time, when journalism is constantly under pressure and directly supporting our local communities.

Read the rest of the great story by Ella Baily on the Santa Barbara Independent