Author: Erik Torkells

March 19, 2020

Three Positive Cases in Santa Barbara County, With 145 Tests Pending

Other local news: Rent relief for residents and businesses; five UCSB students under quarantine tested negative; cannabis industry doing well during the pandemic; limited police and bus service; Contour Airlines suspending operations at month's end.

Up, Down, and All Around Montecito’s Pepper Hill

Once the site of a Midwestern zinc magnate's winter retreat, the community on the Montecito side of Eucalyptus Hill makes for a pleasantly varied stroll, with dazzling ocean and mountain views. Plus, you can check in on the fabulous lair currently under construction there. 2

Newsletter: March 19

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March 18, 2020

Five Recently Listed Properties Worth a Look

Including a mega Tudor in Montecito, a split personality in Birnam Wood, charming cottages in San Roque and the Upper East, and a Hope Ranch ranch hoping for a second chance.

Seniors Now Get First Access to Gelson’s

More food news: A local farmer's inspiring message about reciprocity; Kanaloa Seafood, Malibu Farms, and Caruso's are offering delivery and takeout; Flor de Maiz has gone on hiatus; Bettina gift cards.

An Emergency Proclamation from the City of Santa Barbara

The city stopped suggesting that certain types of businesses close and started insisting on it. That includes gyms and fitness centers. The order is through April 7.

March 17, 2020

All Bars Encouraged to Close and Restaurants Told to Offer Only Takeout and Delivery

Other local news: Second North County resident tested positive; car-based testing at Sansum Clinic; city suspends street sweeping; more on UCSB's plans for Paseo Nuevo.

More Restaurants Are Shifting to Takeout and Delivery Only

Other food news: Santa Barbara Public Market has closed its doors; Rusty's Pizza and Onus Donuts are still open; Bettina is baking more of its superb bread; new T-shirt from Bell's; donate to the FoodBank.

Give Burn Areas a Chance to Dry Out Before You Hike

Plus: City recreation facilities are closed; Lotusland, Riviera Theatre, and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art are on hiatus; real-estate agents' caravan is off; Island Packers suspends trips for a while; help spruce up the Sespe Wilderness trails; two recent sales of note.

The Tiered System for Covid-19 Testing in Santa Barbara

Other local news: The current tally of tests administered here; Santa Barbara Zoo and Chumash Casino have closed; permits for Montecito debris nets get renewed; the tree of the month.