Hidden Hills Community Register • December 2023

HIDDEN HILLS

PUBLISHED MONTHLY

DECEMBER 2023

COMMUNITY REGISTER & RESOURCE GUIDE

Happy Holidays

Community Calendar & events • Three Sisters Foundation • Drag Queen Bingo • Ghost Tire Memorial Santa Lucia Traditions at Malibu Farm • December Cookie Extravaganza • San Luis Creek Lodge EVENTS SERVICES SHOPPING DINING HOME DECOR WELLNESS TRAVEL EDUCATION ANIMAL CARE REAL ESTATE

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24328 BRIDLE TRAIL ROAD, HIDDEN HILLS FOR SALE | 9 BEDS | 12 BATHS | APPROX. 9,919 SQFT | $8,895,000 BEAUTIFUL CAPE COD ESTATE

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HARD W O OD FLO ORI N G • LUMBER • A R CH I TEC T UR A L MI LLWORK • MO ULDI NGS • DECK I NG & CL A DDI N G

DECEMBER2023 in this issue 18 CALENDAR

Upcoming Community Events

20 COMMUNITY BULLETIN

‘Tis the Season to Sparkle; Community Updates

22 COMMUNITY BULLETIN

Festivities at Hidden Hills Farmers Market

24 THREE SISTERS FOUNDATION

Embracing the Power of Three: Live, Laugh, Love

28 ADULT DRAG QUEEN EVENT

An Evening of Drag Queen Bingo at the Community Center

30 HAPPY BIRTHDAY BELLA

“Alice in Wonderland” Theme Birthday Bash

34 HIDDEN HILLS TRAILS

On the Trail With Jazz the Pony and Jet Madden

36 COLLEGE ADMISSION WITH MARGIE CHAING

The Importance of College Interviews in the Selection Process

38 GHOST TIRE MEMORIAL

58 White Tires Memorialize Lives Lost on Malibu’s PCH

42 MALIBU FARM

Experience The Enchanting Santa Lucia Tradition

44 DECEMBER COOKIE EXTRAVAGANZA Deck the Halls With Deliciousness

46 SAN LUIS CREEK LODGE

Getting Centered on the Central Coast

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The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide |

December 2023

Published by your friends and neighbors, exclusively for our community

Your Community Resource Guide

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s December unfolds, and the promise of 2024 beckons, we take a moment to reflect on the priceless wisdom bestowed upon us throughout the past year. These invaluable lessons have woven themselves into the very fabric of our hearts, forever ready to evoke a heartfelt smile. Our hearts brim with gratitude as we wholeheartedly embrace the present, cherishing the irreplaceable moments that have left an indelible mark and continue to be a wellspring of enduring joy.

Every month, we meticulously craft this publication exclusively for our cherished community, serving as a guiding light while shining a spotlight on the positivity that thrives in Hidden Hills. It proudly showcases our exceptional residents, addresses local concerns, offers previews of upcoming events, revisits cherished memories, and explores a wide range of interests. Consider it your steadfast monthly

companion, brimming with priceless insights and insider knowledge.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our advertisers whose generous support allows us to provide this publication to our neighbors without charge. We deeply appreciate the diverse perspectives and creative inspirations that residents of all ages contribute to these pages; your unique stories and viewpoints breathe life into this publication.

More than just a magazine, we are a platform for sharing the stories that define Hidden Hills. If you have a tale to tell, an idea to share, or a desire to contribute, we warmly invite you to reach out to us at editor@hiddenhillsmag.com.

As the holiday season envelops us, we express our profound gratitude for being part of this extraordinary journey. We wish you the most joyful of holidays, however you choose to celebrate, and hope you are surrounded by love and the embrace of family.

nic & hayley Mattson

lonna Weber

Thoughts? Story Ideas? Want to be involved? Editor@HiddenHillsMag.com

SUPPORTING BUSINESSES This community publication is created exclusively for you and all of our Hidden Hills neighbors and is made possible with the generous support of these local businesses.

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December 2023 | The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide

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HIDDEN HILLS CALENDAR 12/2

My Glass is Better Half Full…

7:00 p.m.

12/4

Theater Committee Meeting 10:00 a.m.

12/5

Farmers Market 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

12/5

Board of Directors Executive Session 4:30 p.m.

12/6

Candidate Forum 6:00 p.m.

12/7

Ugly Sweater & Karaoke 7:00 p.m.

12/8 Movie Night: “Love Actually” 7:00 p.m.

12/12 Farmers Market 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

12/13 Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting 11:00 a.m.

12/19 Farmers Market 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

DEC 18

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12/19 Board of Directors Open Session Meeting 6:30 p.m.

12/20 Architectural Committee Meeting 6:30 p.m.

12/20 Equestrian Services Committee 6:45 p.m.

12/25 Christmas HOA Office Closed 12/26 Day After Christmas HOA Office Closed 12/31 New Years Eve

December 2023

HIDDEN HILLS BULLETIN BOARD ‘TIS THE SEASON TO SPARKLE If you’re searching for a joyful activity to share with your loved ones, be sure to explore the festive holiday decorations on display throughout Hidden Hills. The holiday spirit is in full swing, with numerous homes adorned in magnificent lights that are bound to bring delight to all who pass by. There’s a palpable sense of celebration in the air as we admire the many glittering homes where treetops shimmer, snowflakes sparkle, and bells chime. Let us take this moment to remember the true meaning of the season and be inspired by the splendid Christmas and Chanukah decorations to spread goodness to others.

So, don’t let stress cloud your holiday spirit; instead, let the beauty of these decorations light up your heart.

We invite you to share your holiday photos with us, and we’ll feature them in our upcoming issues. Please send your photos to us via email at editor@ hiddenhillsmag.com.

Our Community, Our Responsibility: Save the Shooting Range for Appropriate Places As a tightly-knit community, we take great pride in maintaining the safety and harmony that define our neighborhood. However, in recent times, the City has been receiving reports regarding the discharge of non-lethal firearms within our community, including BB guns, air rifles, paintball guns, and arrows. While we recognize that these activities can be enjoyable for some, it is essential to emphasize that discharging any type of weapon within the City for reasons other than self-defense or public safety is strictly prohibited due to the potential for harm.

Our primary concern lies in the safety of our community members, particularly our children, pets, and neighbors. Accidents can occur, and even non-lethal weapons like BB guns and paintball guns have the potential to result in unexpected injuries. Moreover, the use of firearms and arrows carries even greater risks, and a momentary lapse in caution can lead to severe consequences. We are committed to preserving our community as a secure and welcoming place for everyone, and engaging in these activities unnecessarily jeopardizes that safety.

For more detailed information regarding the types of prohibited firearms and associated violations and penalties, please refer to the City’s official website page at hiddenhillscity.org/non-lethal-firearm-ordinances. We encourage all residents to familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure compliance.

Let us all continue to cherish and enjoy our beautiful community by exploring alternative ways to have fun while prioritizing safety. The City is immensely grateful for your understanding and support in our collective effort to enhance the quality of life in our neighborhood. Thank you for being considerate and responsible neighbors.

Thoughts? Story Ideas? Want to be involved? Email us at Editor@hiddenhillsmag. com 20

The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide |

December 2023

Stay Informed: Subscribe to the City Council Agenda Distribution List Be the first to stay informed about the upcoming City Council agenda by subscribing to our agenda distribution list. Our dedicated city staff sends out an email notification to members of this list ahead of the meeting, simultaneously with the agenda’s public posting.

The agenda will provide you with essential details, including the meeting’s date, time, and location. You’ll also find a brief overview of each item to be discussed, including any closed-session topics, along with instructions on how you can participate in the meeting.

To subscribe to our agenda distribution list, please feel free to contact City Hall at (818) 888-9281 or send an email to staff@ hiddenhillscity.org. Your proactive engagement is essential to ensuring you stay well-informed and engaged in our City’s decision-making process.

December 2023 | The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide

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HIDDEN HILLS BULLETIN BOARD Festivities at the Hidden Hills Holiday Farmers Market The Tuesday weekly farmers market at the Community Center is a cherished tradition in Hidden Hills, especially during the holiday season.

It provides an exceptional opportunity for our community members to come together, celebrate, and support local businesses. As the holiday season approaches, this market becomes even more enchanting.

For the children, it’s a magical experience as they eagerly line up to meet Santa Claus, share their heartfelt wishes, and pose for pictures. Santa’s cheerful presence adds an extra layer of joy to the event, and his friendly assistant, Frosty the Snowman, often joins in the fun, making it an unforgettable experience for kids of all ages.

As you stroll through the market, you’ll be serenaded by talented carolers, their voices harmonizing beautifully to create a festive

ambiance. The holiday songs they sing infuse the air with warmth and merriment, making the market feel like a scene from a holiday movie.

The market is filled with holiday treasures, offering an array of decorations that can turn your home into a winter wonderland. You’ll discover clothing perfect for keeping warm and stylish during the chilly months. Handcrafted gifts, made with love and care by local artisans, provide a unique and personal touch for your loved ones. And let’s not forget the mouthwatering festive treats that tempt your taste buds at every corner, from freshly baked gingerbread cookies to steaming cups of spiced cider.

Beyond the shopping, the farmers market serves as a vibrant gathering place for our tight-knit community. It’s where friends catch up, neighbors share stories, and strangers become friends. There’s an unmistakable sense of camaraderie in the air, reminding us of the true spirit of the holidays – coming together and supporting one another.

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December 2023

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

EMBRACING THE POWER OF THREE: LIVE, LAUGH, LOVE The Three Stooges, Three Amigos, and Hidden Hills Natives: Kristina, Carrie, and Lexi. These three dedicated sisters have joined forces, blending their selfless spirits and compassionate hearts to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. The Three Sisters Foundation, currently in its initial stages of establishment, is a close-knit family foundation with a profound commitment to offering short-term support to families or individuals facing unexpected hardships.

The foundation’s inception emerged from numerous discussions about how the sisters’ annual charitable contributions could be more impactful.

“Over the years, we’ve donated to various charities close to our hearts, but we pondered on how to have a more direct and personal impact on people’s lives,” shared Kristina Kasper, one of the founders of the Three Sisters Foundation. “We wanted to ensure that our contributions were making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need, rather than being absorbed by administrative costs. By engaging directly with families, we could truly comprehend the impact of our support.” The foundation’s primary focus is to assist local individuals and families, whether it’s for school tuition or making a child’s birthday celebration possible in the face of unforeseen circumstances.

The Three Sisters Foundation embodies abundant compassion and a resolute commitment to giving back to the community, which resonates deeply with some and stands as a top priority for many. Those who have encountered solidarity during challenging times understand that the act of giving back is one of the most rewarding experiences life has to offer.

Each year, Carrie orchestrates a holiday boutique in Hidden Hills to raise funds for the Three Sisters Foundation. This year, the funds collected are dedicated to supporting families in Maui who have lost their homes in the Lahaina Fire. Kristina intends to utilize the proceeds to bring holiday gifts and joy to these families in Maui. Carrie explained, “We chose Maui as our focus this year because it holds a special place in our hearts, and it has endured the harshest of unexpected challenges.”

If you are interested in obtaining more information or know someone who would like to apply for a grant, please reach out to Kristina Kasper at kristina.kas12er@gmail.com. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of those facing unforeseen hardships.

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The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide |

December 2023

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El Camino Shopping Center

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(818) 665-6230

Mon-Fri 10:30 am - 6:00 pm Saturday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

A FABULOUS NIGHT OF ADULT DRAG QUEEN BINGO An evening of Drag Queen Bingo at the Community Center hosted by the HHCA Parks and Recreation Committee was a delightful blend of entertainment and camaraderie. Amidst friends and neighbors, the event buzzed with excitement as vivacious drag queens hosted the games. Laughter filled the air as numbers were called out with flair, and witty commentary added an extra layer of fun. This unconventional take on bingo, featuring unique rounds and creative twists, brought people together in a spirit of joy and unity. It was a night where the vibrant world of drag intersected with the traditional game, creating lasting memories of colorful entertainment and community bonding.

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December 2023

December 2023 | The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide

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COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BELLA! Family and friends gathered to celebrate Bella’s special day, filling the community center with laughter and merriment. Bella’s infectious smile illuminated every corner. Inspired by “Alice in Wonderland,” the theme added an extra layer of enchantment to the festivities.

Bella’s outfit epitomized cuteness, complete with characters like the Mad Hatter, Alice, the Cheshire Cat, and the Queen of Hearts all partaking in the merriment.

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December 2023

December 2023 | The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide

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HAPPIEST

TRAILS

On the Trail with Jazz & Jet

Jazz the pony is out on a trail ride with his favorite girl, Jet Madden, and trainer, Jessica Karlsson.

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The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide |

December 2023

FROM CONVERSATION TO ADMISSION THE IMPORTANCE OF COLLEGE INTERVIEWS IN THE SELECTION PROCESS

By Margie Chiang, Education Coach

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s an education coach, parents and students ask me, “Are college interviews that important in the admissions process?”

Yes. Not all offer college interviews, but the highly selective institutions offer optional or recommended ones, as the interview gives the school a chance to learn more about you, your interests, and how you will contribute to the school. In the corporate world, this type of interview could be viewed as a culture fit assessment between the interviewee and the institution.

Although these interviews usually happen towards the end of the application journey, mindful preparation is necessary as these interviews do impact admissions results.

Below are (3) common interview questions given admissions websites, interview guides, and from my own experience as an alumni interviewer.

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December 2023

Tell me about yourself…

• •

Why the ask? They really do want to know who you are and how you add value to the student body.

How to prepare? Avoid resume-like and activity-list-like introductions. Instead, pick out your top 3 passions or interests and fortify with examples from school, extracurriculars, and other experiences.

Why are you interested in XYZ school?

Why the ask? This is a vital question demonstrating your authentic interest in the school, which is validated via school research.

• How to prepare?

Research the school’s mission and core values and find where they overlap for you.

•

Do your in-depth research into the school:

Leveraging your application essays, be clear on the below and be able to articulate your thoughts according to the three areas below – which will require in-depth research. You should be able to cite specifics when answering this question, such as classes you want to join, professors you look forward to learning from, and school clubs you are excited to contribute to.

How you add value to the school

In terms of: • Activism • Leadership • Academic • Research • Helping student body/community

How have you overcome challenges?

•

What you seek • Education opportunity • Development • Subject of interest • Culture • Location • Other

What school offers Be specific: • Academic programs • Internship programs • Courses • Professors • Campus activities • Clubs • City • Other

•

Why the ask? Schools want to know if you’ve faced and overcome significant challenges in your life. They want to see resilience in their students in light of our modern evolving world where changes are swift. They also want to see the propensity for hard work–the demonstration of ego-less/roll-up-sleeves mindset to overcome obstacles.

How to prepare? Going back to your applications essays, think of a time when you have faced a challenging problem and overcome it with tremendous effort. These challenges can come from your home life, school, activities, as well as other experiences.

In your response, explain how the obstacle challenged you and emphasize what you exactly did to overcome it. What is also essential to share is what you learned from this experience and how has it shifted your mindset and/or behavior.

And if you want to get more comfortable with the overall interview process, ask a friend/parent/teacher to ask you questions about yourself and respond as if you were in an interview. Role-playing is an ideal way to prepare you for the real interview, highlighting areas to focus on and simply giving you more confidence.

Margie, an Education Coach, merges leadership coaching and marketing expertise to steer students through college applications and life. Contact her at margiechiang@126.com.

December 2023 | The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide

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Ghost Tire Memorial

58 White Tires Memorialize Lives Lost on Malibu’s PCH, Sparking Calls for Safer Roads

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n November 19, World Remembrance Day, 58 white tires, each representing someone who died in a traffic collision on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, were installed on PCH and Webb Way. After four Pepperdine students were killed in a violent crash in October, loved ones called for safer conditions on the highway.

Deslyn Williams, Niamh Rolston, Asha Weir, and Peyton Stewart, also referred to as “Our Girls” by their loved ones, were killed in the accident that occurred on October 17.

The PCH Taskforce and Streets are for Everyone organized the vigil on Tuesday night and Sunday morning, and family and friends of the Pepperdine students signed their white tires with their names.

The Ghost Tire Memorial was inspired by the Ghost Bike (also referred to as a Ghost Cycle or White Cycle), a bicycle roadside memorial placed where a cyclist had been killed or severely injured, usually by the driver of a motor vehicle.

Damian Kevitt, executive director and founder of Streets are Safe for Everyone, said while the

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By Samantha Bravo

installation is usually displayed at the scene of the incident, it was too dangerous to place the tires where the four girls were killed.

“PCH is too dangerous; we actually couldn’t place it at the location because it was far too dangerous to have this happen at the location where these four young ladies were killed,” Kevitt said.

There have been 58 fatalities on PCH since 2010.

“We’re starting in 2010 because on April 3, 2010, 13-year-old Emily Shane lost her life on PCH, and since then, her family has been fighting for change on PCH,” Kevitt said.

Kevitt introduced Ellen Shane to be the first speaker.

“I literally felt a painful whole in my heart for months; what is really tragic about recalling that day 13 years ago is that, as with Emily, 57 other preventable deaths have occurred on the very same road, Pacific Coast Highway,” Shane said. “Every car on the road is a potential weapon; every driver who lets go of being vigilant for even a split second is potentially the

The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide |

December 2023

cause of a tragedy.”

Ellen’s husband, Michel Shane, produced the recent film, “21 Miles in Malibu,” as it exposes the dangers of PCH. “The mission of this film [is] to make this highway a safer place, to educate anyone driving here to be aware and stay aware as they traverse the highway,” Ellen Shane said. “My hope is that Michel’s efforts and measures being implemented stop the accidents and deaths on this road.”

Pepperdine student Bridget Thompson spoke at the vigils on Tuesday and Sunday morning, honoring her friends and the lives lost on PCH. Thompson said she stood on the side of PCH until 3 a.m. that night her friends were killed, crying and begging for her best friends to be OK. “I lost my sisters, I lost my everything, but it wasn’t just me that lost everything,” Thompson said. “On October 17, we lost four girls who were going to change the world: Deslyn Williams, Niamh Rolston, Asha Weir, and Peyton Stewart.

They were four of the most ambitious, loving, selfless, and kind people you’ve ever come across; it was an absolute privilege to be loved by them.”

Thompson called on Caltrans to take action and make PCH safe for everyone.

“It needs to be fixed before it’s your best friend, your sister, daughters,” said Thompson.

PCH Taskforce member Tina Segel thanked the tire company for the tire donations, as well as Anawalt Lumber for the donations of the paint and supplies.

“These tires were donated by the Tire Man in Thousand Oaks, and we want to thank Sean, they’ve been amazing; they gave us the tires, they delivered the tires to us, and Rieff from Anawalt Lumber donated the paint, the spikes, the masks, and the gloves that we needed to complete this project, so the community has really came together, ralphs donated the donuts, Starbucks donated the coffee, every single person that we asked has said, ‘What can we do,’” Segel said. “I felt like it brought us together in such a way, this is our community, and we want to make it safe, and we want to do whatever we can to make PCH safe.”

Many of the families and friends at the gathering called on authorities, such as the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), to improve the roadway. They have all joined a community group called Fix PCH, which advocates for installing speed cameras, increased fines, and lower speed limits.

Malibu/Lost Hills Captain Jennifer Seetoo was

one of the featured speakers at the PCH Taskforce meeting the city held earlier that day and honored the four women during the vigil on Tuesday night.

“We need to focus on education, we need to focus on enforcement, and we need to focus on engineering to protect the people, the 15 million people that come here every year that enjoy this beautiful beach,” Seetoo said.

Before the vigil on Tuesday, the city held a special public meeting of the PCH Taskforce at Malibu City Hall with city, county, and state elected officials and Caltrans to discuss ways to address dangerous conditions on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. The PCH Taskforce is a coalition of law enforcement, traffic engineers, Caltrans, and local and state elected officials that work to find solutions to make PCH safer for all users, from the McClure Tunnel in Santa Monica to the Ventura County line.

State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (42nd District) chaired the meeting, and was joined by State Senator Ben Allen (24th District); Malibu Mayor Steve Uhring; LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath (3rd District); Malibu City Manager Steve McClary; Malibu-Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station Commanding Officer Capt. Jennifer Seetoo; Rafael Molina, Deputy District Director, Division of Traffic Operations, Caltrans District 7; and Lee Haber, Chief Safety Officer, Division of Traffic Operations, Caltrans District 7.

Molina and Haber represented Caltrans at the meeting on Tuesday and said they have been conducting speed studies to identify where they need to focus on safety.

“Our goal is to lower the speed limit on PCH,” Haber said. “Our goal is to complete daytime and nighttime reviews by December.”

Residents who spoke asked for more enforcement on PCH and for Caltrans to begin making progress on their actions. While Molina and Haber said, “Safety is their number one priority,” residents didn’t believe their words matched with their actions.

At Sunday’s memorial, Seetoo extended her condolences to the families of the four girls.

“This Thanksgiving, there will be an empty seat at each of their Thanksgiving dinners; their beautiful lives were taken by a speeding driver,” Seetoo said. “We have 58 tires, representing the lives of 58 whose lives have been cut short due to traffic collisions, just on PCH in Malibu.”

Seetoo pointed to four white tires with no names.

“These tires represent the future victims, lives that

will be cut short here on PCH if nothing changes,” Seetoo said.

Barry Stewart, father of Peyton Stewart, spoke during the memorial and acknowledged the city and safety officials in attendance, but also wanted to bring attention to the empty seat that was saved for a representative from Caltrans.

“I understand that they sent a letter to the organizer of this event, declining their participation in this event but reiterating, ‘Safety is their number one priority,’” Stewart said.

According to Caltrans, during the past 10 years, there have been more than 4,000 collisions on PCH in Malibu. Speeding and improper turns are the most common contributing factors to collisions, both of which will be directly addressed by the Signal Synchronization Project.

According to the city’s website, “All of the parties gave updates on their efforts, including lowering speed limits, increasing traffic enforcement, getting speed cameras, increasing funding, and various traffic safety and engineering projects. Supervisor Horvath is working on permanent enhanced traffic safety enforcement from the Sheriff’s Department on PCH to ensure that we can sustain Capt. Seetoo’s current enhanced enforcement.

Senator Allen and Assemblymember Irwin will co-author a bill to allow photo speed cameras on PCH in Malibu.”

To date, the city has allocated and spent approximately $39 million on traffic safety improvement projects on PCH. The city currently has $8 million of funds obligated toward future PCH safety improvement projects. The City of Malibu released a list of improvement projects they have been working on since 2015.

On November 13, the City Council approved declaring a local state of emergency to address the PCH safety crisis.

McClary announced that the city and CHP are currently working on a contract to bring back CHP patrols to PCH in Malibu in early 2024. The city has begun working on getting PCH in Malibu designated a Public Safety Corridor. The city is funding overtime for an additional officer per shift.

The city said Seetoo has begun enhanced traffic safety enforcement and additional patrols on PCH in Malibu.

Community members are urged to continue to contact their local elected officials to voice their support for ongoing efforts to improve PCH safety in Malibu.

December 2023 | The Hidden Hills Community Register & Resource Guide

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Experience the Enchanting Santa Lucia Tradition at Malibu Farm

By Judy Abel

T

he glorious, ancient tradition celebrating Santa Lucia awaits you this holiday season in a dazzling display of pageantry and festivity at Malibu Farm Restaurant. The celebrated farm-to-table eatery greeting guests at the front of the iconic Malibu Pier turns cozy before Christmastime as the place to celebrate the Swedish tradition of Santa Lucia, bringing warmth and light to the darkest days of winter in Scandinavia.

The lore of Santa Lucia begins in the heart of Sweden, the birthplace of Malibu Farm Restaurant’s founder Helene Henderson. As the Scandinavians tell it Santa Lucia emerges as winter’s icy grip tightens its hold and daylight wanes. The beloved saint brings warmth and light to the darkest season. An enchanting celebration is observed this time of year honoring

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Santa Lucia or “Saint Lucy,” a symbol of light and hope in Swedish culture. This unique celebration marks a poignant moment in Sweden’s cultural calendar, bridging communities and generations through a shared appreciation for light, kindness, and the enduring spirit of hope symbolized by the soft glow of candlelight.

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The enchanting procession that honors the beloved saint, Santa Lucia, whose name comes from the Latin “lux” meaning “light,” is anticipated by Malibu locals and others who come to witness her arrival at the Malibu Farm Restaurant, a tradition since Henderson opened her first Malibu Farm Café a decade ago.

Wearing a white gown with a crimson sash and a crown wreath of candles on her head Santa Lucia, radiating beauty and grace, leads a procession of singers, each holding a candle adding to the intimacy and warmth of the observance. Her arrival is a symbol of light, hope, and charity. The young women in the processional delight the crowd performing traditional acapella hymnals in Swedish with a few English carols as well.

Robert Monkress, assistant manager at Malibu Farm Restaurant, says the yearly event “comes

alive. It’s a festival of lights illuminating the darkest day of the year.”

For the restaurant’s founder, it’s a reminder of her days growing up in Sweden, where the feast of Santa Lucia once coincided with the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year. There, communal gatherings, where families and friends huddle around bonfires and share stories, foster a sense of unity and joy. Sweet baked treats such as ginger cookies and lussekatter, saffron buns are often enjoyed. The key ingredient is the spice, with a rich history in Sweden. The saffron-infused buns are a sensory delight, providing a sweet and aromatic experience that adds to the festive spirit of the holiday season.

Malibu Farm’s tradition evokes not only the honored saint but also serves as a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry woven by the Scandinavian community.

The magical ambiance of Santa Lucia will be celebrated at Malibu Farm Restaurant on December 10 with two performances and dinner seatings at 4 and 6 p.m. Of course, the community is welcome to peek in to witness the glorious spectacle and to hear the sweet, beguiling melodies of traditional songs of Santa Lucia, also known as Saint Lucy.

The event has been captivating onlookers making for standing room only performances since the

tradition was brought to the Malibu Farm Café at the end of the Malibu Pier in 2013. Since the restaurateur opened a second location on the pier, she brought the Santa Lucia processional to the larger restaurant.

Henderson, who still calls Malibu home, started cooking classes and backyard dinners at her Malibu home. They were so successful she opened her first restaurant on the Malibu Pier. There are now Malibu Farm locations in Newport Beach, Tiburon, San Diego, Lanai, New York, and Japan.

Let the festive atmosphere and lasting impression of the Santa Lucia celebration kindle the holiday spirit as it brings people together in a celebration of light and togetherness. Over the centuries as candles flicker and voices harmonize, Santa Lucia, celebrated for her kindness, poise, and light brings vibrant joy and tradition from Sweden to Malibu; a tradition serving as a luminous reminder that even in the depth of winter, the collective warmth of tradition and community can dispel the darkness.

Book a reservation at Malibufarm.com

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• Deck the Halls • with Deliciousness

December Cookie Extravaganza!

O

Basic Cookie Dough

By Barbie Butz

f all the months in a year, December seems to be our biggest month for baking.

We bake pies, cakes, tarts, breadpuddings, and other decadent goodies. However, I would guess that the most popular treats for sharing would have to be cookies.

We organize cookie parties for adults to share their master pieces and share recipes, and we plan traditional cookie parties for our kids and grandkids.

We even box them up and send them as gifts to friends and family out of the area. And who hasn’t taken a few festive cookies to a neighbor just to say “Happy holidays!” Of course, you can’t forget a plate of cookies for that jolly old fella who comes down the chimney with all those gifts and a ho, ho, ho!

Many years ago, I found this recipe in a magazine for a versatile buttery sugar cookie dough that can be whipped up in minutes and flavored, shaped, topped, or filled in multiple ways. I’ve included the variations to help make your cookies even more special. After you prepare the dough, let your own creative juices flow! Happy holidays! Cheers!

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Ingredients:

3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder

Directions:

Beat butter, sugar, and salt with a heavy-duty stand mixer on medium-high or with a hand mixer on high, until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat on medium until combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of bowl as needed. With the mixer running on low, add flour and baking powder to butter mixture, beating until just incorporated. Shape dough into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill until firm, at least 2 hours. Dough will keep in refrigerator tightly wrapped for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer up to 3 months.

Variations Chocolate Cookie Dough:

Whisk 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice into flour before adding it to butter mixture in basic recipe.

Gingerbread Cookie Dough: Substitute 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 1/4 cup unsulphured molasses for the 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar in the basic recipe. Whisk 1 1/2 tablespoons ground ginger into flour before adding it to the butter mixture in the basic recipe.

Substitute 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder for the 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour in the basic recipe.

Caramel Cookie Cups

Orange-or-LemonScented Cookie Dough:

Ingredients:

Whisk 1 tablespoon grated lemon or orange zest (or a combination) into flour before adding it to the butter mixture in the basic recipe.

Cinnamon or Spice Cookie Dough:

Orange-scented or Spiced Basic Cookie Dough 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 4 ounces cream cheese, softened 2 tablespoons jarred caramel sauce or topping, plus more for drizzling 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar 1/4 teaspoon orange extract 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt, plus more for sprinkling 40 toasted pecan halves

Directions:

Divide dough into 40 (1 tablespoon) balls (about 1/2 ounce each). Place 1 ball in each cup of 2 (24-cup) lightly greased miniature muffin pans. (You will fill only 40 cups). Using a teaspoon measure, press dough into bottom and up sides of muffin cups. Chill for 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake in a preheated oven until cookies are dry to the touch and shape is set, about 10 minutes. Immediately press the cookies again with the teaspoon. Cool cookie cups in pans on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Transfer cookie cups to wire rack to cool completely, about 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, beat butter, cream cheese, and caramel sauce in the bowl of a heavy-duty electric stand mixer on medium or using a hand mixer on high, until creamy, 1 to 2 minutes.

Reduce speed to low with mixer running, gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Beat in vanilla extract and flaky salt.

Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip, and evenly pipe into cooled cookie cups. Drizzle about 1 teaspoon caramel sauce on each filled cookie cup. Sprinkle each cookie with desired amount of flaky sea salt, and to each with a toasted pecan half.

Prepare an Orangescented or Spiced variation of Basic Cookie Dough.

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GETTING CENTERED on the

Central Coast

By Elyse Glickman Photos courtesy of San Luis Creek Lodge

T

he geographic midway point between Los Angeles and the Bay Area is also a cross section of Southern and Northern California’s cultures and lifestyles. San Luis Creek Lodge, remodeled and reborn in late 2020, hits that sweet spot. It stands out among other lodgings with its updated wine-country influenced exteriors, and location where free-spirited beach culture, wine country sophistication, and historic significance co-exist. While it is walking distance to San Luis Obispo’s eclectic downtown restaurants and boutiques, it is also an easy jaunt by car to Paso Robles wineries, beach towns like Cambria, and beautiful rugged areas just waiting to be explored.

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Road trip enthusiasts who have visited the area a few years ago may remember the lodge’s dark “Old English” interiors. Parent company PRG Hospitality Group, which took ownership of the property in 2015, saw more potential and tasked Los Angeles-based designer and Haus Interior founder Nina Freudenberger, author of best-selling design books Surf Shack and Bibiliostyle, to retro-fit the lodge — figuratively and literally. The result is striking, as the Scandinavian-style furnishings and color scheme pushes the Mid-Century aesthetic hotel aesthetic common in hotel refurbs over the past few years into the heart of the 1970s. The open, airy new look, however, reflects Freudenberger’s talent for being in tune with the tastes of 21st-century travelers who mix their taste for luxury and gastronomy with outdoor pursuits on their road trips.

When interviewed for a hotel design trade, Freudenberger explained that her subtle yet evocative color palette and choice of furnishings was a “nod to the cultured vibe of San Luis Obispo, as well as the Central Coast’s natural landscape and the nearby vineyards.” Bringing California’s beautiful light indoors was her primary goal for the lodge, accomplishing it not only with window placements but also elements such as cane headboards, white oak floors, and grasscloth wallpaper reflect the natural attributes of the outdoors.

The 25-room, three-building lodge residential-style property is elevated with features and amenities one would find in a luxury boutique hotel. Artwork and decorative accents around the hotel are created by California artists (including original pieces by LA-based Block Shop), while familiar brands known for their style and sustainability put the finishing touches on a stay. Rooms are appointed with Fili d’Oro linens, while the bathrooms have marble countertops, custom-tiled walk-in shower, and luxuriant Aesop bath products. Mini-bar snacks and treats are sourced from treats from California health food mini-chain Erewhon. Pastry and coffee delivered to guests’ room each morning are brought in from local cafes inside a reusable tote bag that is also a souvenir of the stay on departure.

On top of it all, Linus bikes are available for guest use at no charge.

While the lodge does not have restaurants, it is an easy 20-minute walk (or 10-minute bike ride or drive) to San Luis Obispo, where some of the Central Coast’s best restaurants can be found. The lodge has a curated list of restaurant and winery recommendations that will truly allow guests to eat and relax like a local. Mint + Craft, Novo, and Sally Loos are among the casual lunch recommendations, while dinner picks include Granada Bistro, Ox and Anchor, and Guiseppe’s, which are noted for their focus on ingredients sourced from area farms and purveyors. Whether you

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prefer coffee houses or cocktail bars in between, the lodge has you covered as well.

In terms of wineries, the area has an embarrassment of riches, including a few boasting major industry awards and national recognition. Justin, Denner, Booker, and Austin Hope around Paso Robles, along with Tolosa and Talley in the Edna Valley.

Travelers who choose their lodging and activities based on sustainable practices will also be pleased to know that the San Luis Creek Lodge is part of the Travel Sustainable program. Affiliated hotels and motels have taken significant measures to maintain a more eco-friendly environment.

No single-use material like plastic straws, stirrers, bottles, or cups will be found in the rooms, and guests have the option to not have daily room cleaning services and reuse towels to save on the property’s water usage.

Room rates run between $164 and $364.

For more information or to book a room, visit sanluiscreeklodge.com.

San Luis Creek Lodge 1941 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo, CA (805) 541-1122 48

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