State Street Will Be Closed to Cars All Summer

It's the best thing to happen to downtown Santa Barbara in recent memory.

Knapp’s Castle Is Coming Along Nicely

Other local news: California issues social-distancing guidance for places of worship; Goleta food-preservation firm is now valued at $1 billion; two-hour weekend parking limit at Montecito beaches and trailheads; mountain lion spotted again; drive-in theater reopened.

Social Distancing Made Easy at UCSB

With in-person classes canceled for months, the campus is a lovely place for a stroll. You can expect many "I Am Legend" moments, where you'll feel like the last person on earth. 1

A Big Win for Ellen and Portia

Plus: Have you walked down State Street now that it's closed to cars?; a stripped-down Jeff Shelton rental; a pair of Montecito notables have gone MIA; two more sales of note.

Newsletter: May 24

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Santa Barbara County Requires Face Masks at Businesses

Other local news: County creates contact-tracing crew; big donation to help undocumented workers; Montecito Planning Commission dithers over the San Ysidro Roundabout; invite an animal to your next Zoom meeting.

Ten Big Price Reductions on a Wide Range of Properties

Rare is the high-end property around here that sells for the initial ask. The question is: how far does the number have to drop before someone bites? Here are the week’s top 10 price-chops.

Are You Ready to Go Out to a Restaurant?

Now that the county has allowed restaurants to reopen for dine-in service, they're doing just that—some only at their outdoor tables, others inside, too. Here's a running list.

Nine Blocks of State Street Will Be Closed to Cars

Other local news: Interview with Santa Barbara's economic development chief; many Old Spanish Days Fiesta events will be held online; OstrichLand update.

Arigato Sushi and Olio e Limone Have Opened for Takeout

More food news: The Honor Bar is open for dine-in service; Helena Avenue Bakery is half-opening; Bibi Ji and Lilac Patisserie expanded their hours; in praise of novelty, as experienced at Zaytoon, Taqueria Santa Barbara, and Secret Bao.