Author: Erik Torkells

December 6, 2025

The 2025 Shop-Local Gift Guide, Part 3

The best gifts come from the heart—and from local independent shops like Folio Press & Paperie, Game Seeker, Jake and Jones Menswear & Objects, Satellite, The Eddy, and The Warbler. So get out there and go shopping! 4

December 5, 2025

Supersize Spec Compound South of the Freeway

Noteworthy new listings also include a fixer on Eucalyptus Hill; Riviera ranch house with potential; contemporary spec reno above N. Patterson Avenue; one of those East Mesa houses elevated off the street; 1923 cottage in the Bungalow Haven District; West Beach landmark; and more. 2

December 4, 2025

Pressing Pause on the Redevelopment of Paseo Nuevo

Other recent news: Milpas Street Holiday Parade canceled due to deportation fears; king tides return today; cannabis shop not opening on Santa Claus Lane; Sable Offshore Corporation is trying another tack; the tree of the month. 4

December 3, 2025

Inside the New, Mostly Vegan Corner Market Downtown

More food news: A free drink for local nonprofit employees; the menu at Noe's Cafe, now open across from the courthouse; the story of Lucky Penny's facade; anyone know the Chick-fil-A franchisee?; Funk Zone development will now have six food-and-beverage outlets; Bistro Amasa's recipe for roasted carrots; White Caps in Summerland plans to start over from the ground up; State Street Asian restaurant rebrands. 9

Newsletter: December 3

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December 2, 2025

The 2025 Shop-Local Gift Guide, Part 2

Shopping online is boring! Shopping in person is fun! Go find great things for the people you care about at our many terrific independent stores. In this edition: Diani, Folly, Lighthouse Skate Shop, Field Trip, and The Crafter's Library.

December 1, 2025

Santa Barbara Might Tighten Restrictions on Single-Use Plastics

The City Council will weigh new rules regarding plastic carry-out bags at grocery stores, Mylar balloons, plastic and Mylar confetti, and small "disposable" water bottles. Moreover, restaurants would have to use reusable foodware for food and beverages consumed on site. 13

November 30, 2025

Butterfly Lane Tuscan Sells for $2.3 Million Off the Initial Asking Price

Last week's sales also include a Spanish hacienda on 10 acres in the Santa Ynez Valley; the 1926 Spanish Colonial in San Roque with a double-decker shed; Summerland three-bedroom on a double-wide lot; and Conejo Road contemporary for a $300,000 loss.

New Jeff Shelton Building Proposed Downtown

Plus: Summerland boutique to close; new European eyewear/apparel shop on State Street; Folly has expanded; Maker House's handsome pop-up; Armando Ramos art exhibit. 4

Newsletter: November 30

The Siteline newsletter is the best way to follow the website. To subscribe, click the link at the bottom of this post. And you can unsubscribe at any time.