Burning Questions

July 30, 2020

Is There a Story Behind Lucky Penny’s Bell?

"I've been to Lucky Penny countless times, but I only just noticed the big bell outside the entrance," asks S. "Where did it come from? Does it ever get rung?"

July 15, 2020

Why Is There Wood on Some Power Lines?

Blame Mother Nature and less-than-thorough maintenance.

May 12, 2020

What Are These Black Beetles That Are Everywhere This Spring?

"I don't remember them from previous years, at least not in these numbers," asks R. "And does nothing eat them? They would seem to be easy prey, since they meander around so slowly and often end up on their backs with their legs wriggling." The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History has the answer.

May 4, 2020

Can You Explain How Sundowner Winds Work?

"Sundowners have been my main topic of research in the last few years," said Dr. Leila M. V. Carvalho, professor of meteorology and climate sciences at UCSB. She kindly agreed to explain the science behind the winds.

April 7, 2020

Why Is There a Pressure Cooker Attached to This Utility Pole?

"I was walking on Anacapa Street when I noticed a pressure cooker attached to a utility pole. A couple of days later, I saw a stockpot at Garden and E. Padre. What purpose do they serve?" —P.

April 1, 2020

What’s This Concrete Ramp Thing on East Beach?

"I noticed this concrete ramp thing while walking on East Beach. What is it?" —W. 1

March 26, 2020

Why Does “USA” Get Written on the Street?

"On recent walks, I've noticed 'USA' spray-painted on the asphalt, along with markings for utility companies. What does it mean?" —E.

March 12, 2020

What Are Those Poles in the Ocean Near the Ritz-Carlton Bacara?

"During lunch at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, I spotted these four columns just offshore. I only recently moved here, and maybe this is obvious to people who've lived here longer, but what are they?" —A.

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.

December 3, 2019

What’s the Story With the Half-Finished Lot Next to the Montecito Country Mart?

"Is it part of the shopping center? Is there any hope it'll be developed at some point?" —S. 1