Got religion?

One thing that surprised me walking in Goleta, I realized there were an inordinate number of churches on one street. And not small churches; fairly large properties, if not large buildings. Just up the road, the number of churches in Santa Barbara doesn't seem as pervasive, but they're definitely here. And this surprised me even more - huge Easter program by Calvary Chapel on the Santa Barbara courthouse lawn.

Lawn Bowling

I've only seen it in San Francisco, Australia, and here (hey - I've never been to Europe). Looks like they're trying to recruit. In San Francisco it's bocce.

For the dogs

Now that I've been in this town for a few weeks and stepped in dog shit twice,  I'm remembering that before I lived here  in 1993, I was a great fan of dogs.  This is the town that turned me against suburban dog owners.  Not just on the sidewalks -  on the beaches. 

Got alcohol?

I see this black plastic thing by the sidewalk near my house, and have no idea what it is. Later, in a drug store, it becomes clear. Do they not have these in Australia? They must, but... At least around where I rambled, they don't sell alcohol in grocery stores or drug stores - it's a separate store near the entrance. I take that back - Aldi's, it actually is in the store, though all purchases must be made in the register adjacent to that area. I don't think this strategy has done anything to discourage rampant drunkenness among youth (or adults for that matter). But instead of these black deterrents, you have to go by the register to escape.