Author: Erik Torkells

February 19, 2020

Are People Really Allowed to Set Fires in the Middle of Montecito?

"Recently, there have been a few intentional fires in the middle of Montecito, which surprises me, given the area's vulnerability. And then there's the matter of air quality—the smoke drifts all over and makes breathing difficult." —T.

February 18, 2020

A Pretty Spot to Dine Outside in the Funk Zone

More food news: San Diego wine shop taking over the former Savoy Wines space; the Santa Barbara Vegan Chef Challenge is coming up; Rascal's is helping Rudy's develop a vegan menu; amaro ice cream.

The Argument for Taller Buildings in Santa Barbara

Other local news: TV anchor pushes teen, goes viral; county to send fewer weather alerts; five blocks of De La Vina will be narrowed to one lane; state assembly debate; Lotusland's plant health care coordinator; Goleta sidewalk project update; sewer lateral software.

February 17, 2020

The Glamorous Oeuvre of Longtime Biltmore Photographer Hal Boucher

Hal Boucher was hired in 1949 to be the Biltmore's house photographer—and he continued in that role for over 70 years.

Newsletter: February 17

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February 15, 2020

The Santa Barbara Bowl Announced Two More Shows

Plus: Rob Lowe's one-man show at the Granada; the county needs pool workers for the March 3 election; sweet Montecito house sold; what happens to boats that run aground here.

February 14, 2020

A Cool Contemporary House on a Golf Course

The week's other top price reductions: Southern-style passion project on Picacho Lane; views-vs.-80s-design on the Riviera; 1928 Tudor on three prime Montecito acres; and the 1929 estate that always reminds me of the board game Clue.

Cannabis Industry Figures Launch Campaign Attacking Laura Capps

Other local news: DEA agents raid San Ysidro Pharmacy; city to eliminate left turns onto Cliff Drive; two Independent endorsements; how Montecito sewage becomes "brand-name fertilizer"; half-naked trespasser; Trump likely to veto act preserving Los Padres National Forest areas; wildfire-mitigation map; fact sheets proposed for newlyweds.

February 13, 2020

Roost Restaurant Has Closed

More food news: Scarlett Begonia is moving nearby; a profile of the Daisy on State Street; delicious brown-butter breadsticks; Sunshine Café no longer serves dinner; Bree'osh has begun baking baguettes.

Double-Wide Beachfront Compound With a Midcentury Vibe

Built in 1956, the house on Miramar Beach hasn't changed hands in so long that last year's property taxes were all of $7,573.