The Best News Swimmers Have Had in Months

Two area pools have reopened, with intense competition for the few available slots.

Restaurants and Shops Are Allowed to Reopen

Other local news: County to get federal funding after all; Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is reopening to members only; eight white sharks tagged off Carp; Montecito's water situation; the garlic shortage.

Update on Santa Barbara Park Projects

Plus: Montecito Fire Department to bring in sheep for grass control; checking in on two big projects on E. De La Guerra; reader asks why a certain house hasn't sold; what's next for the massive Funk Zone development.

Scandinavian-Style Estate With Its Own Art Gallery

Other noteworthy new listings: 1920s Hedgerow house priced to move fast; funky mini-compound in Carp; beach getaway off Olive Mill Road; San Roque cottage with nicely renovated kitchen.

City Allows Restaurants to Expand Into Sidewalks and Parking Lots

And part of State Street will be closed to cars so restaurants can spill into the streets. Other local news: Santa Barbara Zoo's shoe-wearing penguin died; possible traffic safety improvements on Highway 154; former mayor has a new book about urban planning here.

More on the Patisserie and Café Coming to E. Canon Perdido

More food news: Cava and Green Table have reopened; olive bread at Field + Fort; Buena Onda family meals for now or later; PizzaRev in Paseo Nuevo has closed; free oat-milk drinks at Low Pigeon on May 29.

Newsletter: May 20

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Mountain Lions Spotted on Frontcountry Trails

Plus: Polo Club condo with impressive decor; church seeks lost ducks; vertical-kilometer challenge; Hope Ranch price cut; Los Padres campground closure extended; four recent sales of note.

The County Is Said to Be Loosening Some Restrictions Tomorrow

Other recent news: The state released new criteria for reopening—which San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties meet but Santa Barbara does not—and agreed not to count the Lompoc prison; haircuts might be possible in a few weeks; Carpinteria now requires face masks; July 4 fireworks show canceled.

The Montecito Inn’s New Restaurant Is Opening Soon

Here's a first look at the menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.