Cielito Spec Renovation Mostly Done Right

Highlights of this weekend's open-house lineup: French-inspired architecture in Montecito's Golden Quadrangle; widescreen mountain views off San Antonio Creek Road; and two old gems that are a hoot to explore.

Five Percent Increase in Santa Barbara County’s Homeless Population

Plus: Two high-end rentals, one with a helistop and an Airstream trailer; the county keeps sending out Spanish-language alerts; new book on everyday homesteading from Heritage Goods & Supply; three recent sales of note.

Santa Barbara Is Asking Cruise Lines to Stay Away

Other recent news: Laura Capps conceded to Das Williams; fire near Highway 154; new video-streaming service at Goleta Valley Library.

Oceanfront in Hope Ranch With a Private Path to the Beach

The property at 4305 Marina Drive has been priced as high as $35 million and sold for as low as $17 million. Now it's back on the market for $27.5 million.

A Pair of Japanese Pop-Ups

Yakitori from the Coterie Club and ramen at the Santa Barbara Wine Collective. More food news: Specials at various restaurants will honor Julia and Paul Child; Egg McMuffin invented in Santa Barbara; Choppa Rolling Ice Cream closed; M. Special taproom forecast; Scarlett Begonia's move around the corner; bar opening on Figueroa.

Newsletter: March 9

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All the Latest Local Coronavirus Updates

A Grand Princess passenger in Ventura County tested positive; the ship is scheduled to visit Santa Barbara on March 24; why the city resists banning cruise ships; no cases reported in Santa Barbara County; smaller stores more likely to have supplies; giraffe and leopard being transferred to other zoos.

The Weather Forecast You Should Subscribe To

Plus: Architect Barton Myers's house is said to be hitting the market soon; new four-story condo building on E. Micheltorena; two recent sales, including a 13.75-acre estate that went for 55% off the initial asking price.

Price War on Oak Creek Canyon Road

The week's other top price reductions: Shockingly low price for a 6,100-square-foot Picacho Lane estate (↓$500K); Sea Cliff house inches its way toward reality (↓$85K); Birnam Wood new-build ($325K); and three Olive Mill condos (↓$1.164 million in total).

Architects on How to Fix Downtown Santa Barbara

Other recent news: Election results; Cottage Health opening two urgent-care centers here; local virologist on pandemic survival tactics; Funk Zone restaurant complex approved; Craftsman house on W. Valerio; new shop selling seashell art; parking spat turns ugly.