Hidden Hills Community Register • September 2023

HIDDEN HILLS HIDDEN HILLS

Your Community, Your Sanctuary

Welcome to the latest issue of The Hidden Hills Community Register and Resource Guide , your premier monthly source for an in-depth exploration of the vibrant life that defines our extraordinary neighborhood. From local events to thought-provoking articles, we strive to keep you informed, inspired, and closely knit with the unique community spirit that distinguishes Hidden Hills.

Here, social capital is not just a trendy term; it serves as the lifeblood that enriches each one of us. In Hidden Hills, you are more than just another face in the crowd; you’re an integral part of a nurturing and supportive network. Our publication aims to strengthen this sense of community by fostering mentorship and facilitating the exchange of knowledge. History has shown that a united community is a resilient one, better equipped to tackle any challenges—whether they are environmental crises or complex societal issues.

In an era where technology and divergent beliefs can deepen divides, communities like Hidden Hills stand as poignant reminders that our shared humanity remains the most potent force against fragmentation. We couldn’t make this publication a reality without the generous support of our advertisers, who enable us to distribute this magazine free of charge to all residents. But the soul of our magazine truly resides in you—the community members. Your unique stories, invaluable insights, and fresh ideas are what give this publication its distinct identity.

We continually invite your contributions to ensure that this guide is a comprehensive reflection of what it means to be part of the Hidden Hills community. Don’t hesitate to share your perspectives and suggestions. Together, let’s cultivate a community narrative marked by unity, ongoing growth, and enduring resilience. Your community, your sanctuary.

SUPPORTING BUSINESSES

of our Hidden Hills neighbors and is made possible with the generous support of these local businesses.

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REAL ESTATE AGENTS

THE SHEVINS (PG. 2)

DANIELLE PERETZ ( PG. 4)

LISA MORIARITY (PG. 8)

MIKE BLOOM (PG. 10)

MILLA PARISER (PG. 17)

DAVID SALMONSON (PG. 19)

FRONTGATE REAL ESTATE (PG. 53)

AUTOMOTIVE

ICON GOLF CARS (PG. 35)

FINANCIAL SERVICES

THE DAVIS GROUP (PG. 7)

DINING

DASHA’S KITCHEN (PG. 21)

RIB RANCH BBQ (PG. 40)

LOVI’S DELI (PG. 49)

ANIMAL CARE

ALLIE TASHNEK (PG. 25)

START RESCUE (PG. 45)

EDUCATION

MULHOLLAND

MONTESSORI (PG. 12)

DANCE DIMENSIONS (PG. 33)

HOME SERVICES

INTERNATIONAL PROTECTIVE SERVICE, INC. (IPS) (PG. 6)

MALIBU MARKET & DESIGN/ MALIBU DESIGN CENTER (PG. 9)

UNIVERSAL KITCHEN AND APPLIANCES CENTER (PG. 11)

CONEJO HARDWOODS (PG. 13)

MURRE CLEANERS (PG. 14)

ORGNZE (PG. 27)

DESIGN LIGHTING AND INSTALLATION (PG. 41)

MOSQUITO SQUAD (PG. 44)

JEWELRY/ART/LUXURY

BEN BRIDGE JEWELER (PG. 54)

HEALTH/WELLNESS/ BEAUTY AESTHETIC SMILE DESIGNS (PG. 16)

COMPLETE HEALTH

DENTISTRY (PG. 30)

OXYGEN YOGA FITNESS (PG. 31)

ENTERTAINMENT

SAGEBRUSH CANTINA FOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVAL (PG. 23)

GOLF N STUFF (PG. 44)

nic & hayley Mattson

lonna Weber

HIDDEN HILLS CALENDAR

HIDDEN HILLS BULLETIN BOARD

FIESTA RETURNS

Once Upon a Time in Hidden Hills

September 30-October 1

One of the most beloved Hidden Hills traditions is returning the weekend of September 30 - October 1. All of your favorite Fiesta events will be back including the Saturday Morning Parade, Saturday Night Carnival and Community Dinner, Sunday Morning Pancake Breakfast and the Sunday Night Adult Only Wine Exchange and Dinner. New this year is a Kids Zone at the Community Center following the Parade. Also, the Fiesta Committee has added a DJ and Dance Floor at the Saturday Night Carnival for those of you looking to get your groove on.

Fiesta sign-ups and ticket sales begin on Monday, September 11, at 9 a.m. Tickets can be bought in person at City Hall or online via the City website. Online ticket sales are limited to 10 tickets per event per resident. Remember, Fiesta is intended for Hidden Hills residents and their families. Please limit the number of guests you invite.

The 2023 Fiesta brochure is being developed and will be mailed to each household. We can’t wait to see you at Fiesta!

Bobcats in Our Backyards — What Hidden Hills Residents Need to Know

One of the defining perks of life in Hidden Hills is the community’s closeness to natural habitats. This idyllic setting brings the rare privilege of sharing our environment with local wildlife, including bobcats. Residents and outdoor enthusiasts have reported seeing these elusive creatures, particularly during early morning and late evening hours.

How to Identify a Bobcat

Often confused with mountain lions, bobcats are distinctly smaller and have unique physical characteristics. They may have spotty or virtually spotless reddish-brown fur, black spots or streaks throughout their coat, and a short stubby tail that measures around 9 inches. In the Santa Monica Mountains region, a typical bobcat weighs about 20 pounds and can stand nearly 18 inches high. Additional features include large tufts of fur on the cheeks and ears.

What to Do Upon Sighting

Experts advise treating any encounter with a bobcat with respect and caution. Their natural instinct is to avoid humans, but it is crucial to never feed or approach them. Doing so can alter their behavior, making them less wary of people and potentially leading to negative interactions.

For those looking to deter bobcats from their property, noise and motionactivated devices such as air horns or sprinklers can be effective. Additionally, removing items that attract their prey—like pet food and bird feeders—can encourage the animal to move on.

Hidden Hills Farmers Market

Discover the essence of community and freshness every Tuesday from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Hidden Hills Farmers Market. This exclusive market brings together local growers and artisans, offering a vibrant array of farm-fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and culinary delights. Nestled within the heart of Hidden Hills, this weekly event is a testament to the community’s commitment to quality and connection. Join us to indulge in the finest offerings, support local vendors, and relish in the spirit of togetherness that defines our market.

Safe Operation of Off-Road Vehicles and E-Bikes in the City

A surge in off-road vehicles, electric motorcycles, and e-bikes on City streets, trails, and parkways has caught attention. To prioritize safety for pedestrians, equestrians, and motorists, the City urges residents to familiarize themselves with vehicle operation guidelines. Responsible conduct is appreciated for harmonious coexistence.

Reminders

• No vehicles of any kind are permitted on equestrian trails. This includes off-road vehicles and all bicycles.

• E-bikes that have a top motor-assisted speed of 20 MPH can operate on City streets. These are known as Type 1 or 2 e-bikes.

• E-bikes with a top motor-assisted speed of 28 MPH can only be operated by riders over the age of 16.

• All bicycle and e-bike riders under the age of 18 must wear a helmet.

• Non-street legal quad motorcycles or other off-road vehicles cannot be operated on City streets or trails.

• Electric motorcycles (no pedals), scooters, and mopeds can be driven on City streets if 1) the vehicle is DMV registered and 2) the driver is 16 years or older with a proper DMV-issued license.

Milestone Achieved in Hidden Hills’ Fiber to the Home Project: Construction Phase Nears

In a series of impactful decisions, the Hidden Hills City Council has taken significant steps to shape the future of the community. During its July 10 meeting, the council orchestrated a range of pivotal actions aimed at enhancing city operations and infrastructure.

One standout achievement involved the approval of a revamped City logo design, reflecting the City's dynamic character. Additionally, the council entered into a strategic partnership with RRM to conduct a comprehensive General Plan Update Assessment. This strategic move underscores the City's commitment to continued growth and development.

Furthermore, a forward-looking adjustment to the Municipal Code was greenlit by the council. This update effectively transitions the City Council meeting cycle to a streamlined structure consisting of one regular meeting per month. Commencing on January 1, 2024, these meetings will convene on the second Monday of each month, facilitating greater engagement and participation from residents.

In a dedicated session on July 24, the City Council undertook a thorough review of the proposed funding plan for the ambitious Fiber to the Home project. This undertaking attests to the City's meticulous approach to ensuring a well-funded and successful implementation of this essential broadband initiative.

For those eager to participate in these vital discussions, the Hidden Hills City Council holds regular meetings on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month. Commencing at 5:30 p.m., these meetings can be accessed through various platforms, including Channel 3 (Charter/Spectrum Cable), Zoom, and web streaming via the official City website.

As the City propels itself into a future characterized by progress and connectivity, these deliberations and decisions stand as a testament to Hidden Hills' unwavering dedication to its residents and their well-being.

To stay up to date with city updates, visit hiddenhillscity.org

If You See a Loose Horse...

Safety Guidelines and Protocol

Loose horses pose potential risks to themselves, as well as to those around them. This brief outlines the necessary steps to follow if a loose horse is encountered, including contacting the appropriate authorities and practicing safety measures. Additionally, safety tips are provided for horse owners and riders to prevent accidents and ensure the safe return of lost horses.

Reporting a Loose Horse:

If you encounter a loose horse or discover a missing horse from your property, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure the safety of the animal and those in the vicinity. Follow these steps:

• Contact the nearest gate or entrance on the property.

• Provide as many details as possible, including the horse's description, location, and any distinguishing features.

Loose Horse Patrol Activation:

Upon receiving the information, the gate personnel will promptly alert the Loose Horse Patrol.

• The Loose Horse Patrol is a dedicated team trained to handle such situations.

• They will initiate efforts to locate the loose horse and ensure its safe return to its owner or stable.

Safety Tips for Horse Riders and Owners:

To minimize the risks associated with loose horses, riders and owners are advised to follow these safety guidelines:

• Enhance Visibility: When riding in low-light conditions, wear reflective gear on both the rider and the horse. This increases visibility, reducing the chances of accidents with approaching vehicles.

Approach with Caution:

When approaching a loose horse, exercise caution as horses are prey animals and might react unpredictably.

• Maintain a safe distance: Approach from the side rather than directly behind the horse, avoiding actions that might trigger a flight response.

• Avoid direct confrontation: Do not stand directly in front of a running horse, as they may not stop in time or may be too panicky to prioritize the person's safety.

Long Valley Gate: (818) 227-6659

Round Meadow Gate: (818) 227-6661

Burbank Gate: (818) 227-6660

HIDDEN HILLS ROCKIN’ BBQ

Featuring Randall Wallace and The Band of Fallen Angels

Photographed By Sam Lenkov

The Hidden Hills BBQ and Concert featuring Randall Wallace and The Band of Fallen Angels was a sensational evening of classic rock that delighted the entire family. Held on August 3, the event’s inviting ambience encouraged attendees to bring their lawn chairs and blankets for a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

The night kicked off with the electrifying performance by Randall Wallace and his talented band, who flawlessly delivered beloved classic rock tunes, captivating the audience’s hearts. As attendees immersed themselves in the music, they savored a delectable culinary spread that included a choice of Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, Meat Sauce, or Butter/Garlic Garden Salad. The charcuterie board and indulgent desserts like Tiramisu and Mixed Cookies added gastronomic delight.

Delinah Hurwitz hosted the event, ensuring a seamless and memorable evening that left everyone eagerly awaiting the next Hidden Hills gathering.

HIDDEN HILLS BBQ RODEO TIME

A Nostalgic Affair with Pulled Pork Delights and Western Fun

Photographed By Sam Lenkov

On August 10, the Hidden Hills BBQ transported attendees back to an old-fashioned rodeo era, offering a delightful experience filled with nostalgia and mouthwatering treats. The event, held under the sundappled skies, featured a tantalizing spread, including classic Pulled Pork Sandwiches, flavorful Smoked Brisket Sandwiches, and Vegan Burgers.

Entertainment options were abundant, with the crowd eagerly queuing up for rides on the exhilarating Mechanical Bull, face painting, and arts and crafts activities for the kiddos. The joyous atmosphere extended to the swimming pool, where water games provided a respite from the summer heat.

Jaimee Kasower and the Parks & Rec Committee orchestrated this remarkable event, weaving together elements of food, fun, and community spirit. This Hidden Hills Summer BBQ will be cherished as a time capsule of Western festivity and camaraderie.

Unveiling the Timeless Charm of Hidden Hills' Enchanting Fiesta Era

By Jacqueline Cleaveland

There was a time when everyone knew that the sound of horse hooves clicking against the hard pavement and the aroma of freshly cut grass cascading past winddancing streamers marked the beginning of a special day. The Hidden Hills Fiesta, in its earliest days, has always been a communal celebration, carrying a rural warmth centered around the spirit of the old west. The first gathering began on October 20, 1962, to honor the first-year anniversary of the inception of Hidden Hills as a unified city. The first Grand Marshal was Monte Montana Jr., son of the famous rodeo trick roper, stuntman, actor, and all-around cowboy Monte Montana, who brought with him the traditions of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show.

The Fiesta was known to last for two days, with central themes showcasing the early pioneering spirit of Hidden Hills. Many festivities took place throughout the weekend, including country music, dancing, arts and crafts contests, costume contests, cook-offs, weaving, cultural dance demonstrations, and many others.

Starting after the Pancake Breakfast, the highlight was the opportunity to participate in the Old Time Parade. The parade would meet at the Round Meadow School, then proceed along Round Meadow Road to Long Valley Road and loop around the neighborhood. More often than not, it would trace an encore route through Old Town Calabasas. According to a 1966 Fiesta flyer, spectators were encouraged to "assemble under cool pepper trees and watch with vigor." There was a welcoming "come as you are" mentality, with participants spending weeks decorating whatever wheel-bearing item they had with bright colors and streamers to parade through the neighborhood. Some families piled into the back of pick-up trucks or horse-drawn wagons, while others chose to create beautifully crafted floats.

Juliette Demain-Woods, an early Hidden Hills resident, recalls a time as a child in 1969 when "we built a covered wagon float for the Fiesta parade. It was ‘pulled’ by two fiberglass horses, which we purchased from the Rafter R riding stables at the end of Long Valley Circle on a dirt road. The horses were worn out, so we restored them with fiberglass cloth, a setting compound, and paint. It was a family project that included many neighborhood kids." There were also young boys and girls who would walk with their dogs (and even rabbits), decorate their bikes to cruise along with the trucks and floats, or ride their horses with their family and friends.

Emphasizing the community's Western roots, Clayton Moore, also known as the Lone Ranger, was known to participate in the festivities by horseback riding in the parade atop his beautifully crafted Bohlin Silver Saddle. Ed Bohlin, known as "the most famous saddle maker to walk this earth," crafted each saddle with unique artistry that was a favorite of many Hollywood Cowboys; Clayton Moore, Monte Montana, and legends like Roy Rogers and Gene Autry among them. The Autry Museum of the American West still has many pieces of Bohlin’s "western art" on display.

Continuing the Old West/Equestrian spirit, many of the Hidden Hills children were known to participate in the annual Fiesta Gymkhana. Ribbons, buckles, and trophies were awarded to the winners of each event, such as barrel racing, pole bending, and the "dollar bill ride." Alongside the traditional activities, there were also Horse Show Costume classes, where participants not only wore a costume themselves but also decorated or painted their horse to fit the theme. In 1967, Cathy Nicol Crair "spent many hours transforming her horse into a zebra" for her Safari-themed look.

It was a time full of simple joys, like the anticipation of showing off one's hard work on a decorated float or looking forward to saddling one’s horse in the morning or lacing candy-colored streamers through the spokes of a bike. Then, at the end of the day, breathing in a sunset's sweet amber air as the sound of laughter danced down asphalt roads.

The early residents of Hidden Hills not only have the privilege of carrying fond memories of a truly blissful era but also, through their photographs, give us all a small piece of that magic.

Disaster Preparedness Guide

From Earthquakes to Wildfires, Equipping Our Community with Readiness Strategies for Safety and Resilience

Natural disasters can strike unexpectedly, causing chaos and disruption. Being prepared can make a significant difference in your safety and that of your loved ones. Living in Hidden Hills, we are a community known for its beauty and serenity, but that does not exempt us from potential hazards like earthquakes, wildfires, and other emergencies. This comprehensive disaster preparedness guide aims to equip Hidden Hills residents with the knowledge and tools they need to face any crisis head-on.

Before a Disaster

Creating a Resilient Plan

1. Develop a Family Emergency Plan: A well-thought-out family emergency plan is the foundation of disaster readiness. Sit down with your family members to establish communication protocols, designate meeting spots, and allocate responsibilities during an emergency. Also, identify an out-of-town contact person for coordination.

2. Assemble an Emergency Kit: Gather essential supplies to sustain your family for at least three days. Stock up on non-perishable food, bottled water, medications, first aid materials, flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio. Personal hygiene items and vital documents should also be included, all stored in a waterproof container.

3. Safeguard Your Home: Take preventative measures by securing heavy furniture to walls to prevent tipping during earthquakes. Install smoke detectors on all floors and consider carbon monoxide detectors. Ensure you know how to shut off gas lines safely and label them accordingly. Strengthen doors and windows to withstand potential hazards.

4. Know Your Environment: Familiarize yourself with your neighborhood’s evacuation routes and nearby shelters. Stay informed about emergency protocols at your workplace, your children’s schools, and within your community.

During a Disaster: Staying Calm and Informed

1. Stay Informed: Stay tuned to local news, radio updates, and official social media accounts for real-time information. These sources will provide guidance and critical updates during emergencies.

2. Follow Evacuation Orders: If authorities issue evacuation orders, adhere to them promptly. Grab your emergency kit and follow recommended routes to safety. Avoid flooded areas and downed power lines during your evacuation.

3. Effective Communication: Conserve your phone’s battery by using text messages over calls. This minimizes network congestion, ensuring you can communicate with your loved ones and receive crucial information.

4. Prioritize Safety: During earthquakes, remember to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” indoors. Seek shelter away from windows and heavy objects. When outside, move to open spaces, away from buildings, trees, and power lines.

After a

Disaster

Recovery Steps

1. Check for Injuries: Administer basic first aid for minor injuries and seek medical attention for more severe cases. Prioritize the well-being of your family members and neighbors.

2. Inspect Your Home: Survey your residence for gas leaks, damaged electrical systems, and structural impairments. If needed, turn off utilities, especially if they are compromised.

3. Communicate and Update: Reach out to your designated out-of-town contact to inform them of your safety. Utilize social media and emergency apps to update your status and reassure others of your well-being.

4. Extend a Helping Hand: Support your community by checking on vulnerable neighbors, such as the elderly or those with disabilities. Your assistance could make a significant difference during their recovery process.

5. Heed Official Guidance: Listen to instructions from local authorities regarding re-entry into your area and other vital guidelines. They are equipped to guide you safely through the aftermath. See resources.

Disaster preparedness is a shared responsibility that enhances our resilience in the face of emergencies. By following this guide and making preparedness a priority, you can be better equipped to navigate emergencies, protect your families, and contribute to the overall safety and well-being of our community. Remember, preparedness is an ongoing process—regularly review and update your plans and supplies to ensure your readiness for any unexpected situation.

City of Calabasas Emergency Preparedness

Ready yourself for earthquakes, wildfires, storms, hazardous materials, and power outages. Invest effort in safeguarding family, friends, and colleagues. Act now to ensure preparedness for future emergencies— access vital resources by visiting cityofcalabasas.com/government/ public-safety-emergency-preparedness/emergency-preparedness. Today’s preparation secures tomorrow’s safety.

Know your Zone

The “Know Your Zone” initiative by the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the interactive Zonehaven AWARE platform website help plan for emergencies. This tool aids during LA County’s significant emergencies, offering evacuation, shelter, and real-time updates. Your designated zone, like HID-C501 or HID-C502 for Hidden Hills, is vital for alerts. Discover your zone at community.zonehaven.com and explore LA County’s notification systems at ready.lacounty.gov/emergency-notifications.

for life success

By Margie Chiang, Education Coach

As an education coach, parents frequently ask me: "Which is more important for my child's future success —IQ or EQ?"

This inquiry prompts me to pause, drawing upon my background in leadership development, where I have worked closely with solid executives who have evolved into accomplished business leaders. In addressing this query, I view it from a comprehensive, long-term perspective, recognizing that life achievements result from a multifaceted interplay of factors.

Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and Emotional Quotient (EQ) play roles in overall success, health, wellness, and happiness. It is not assigning dominance to one over the other but rather acknowledging the value inherent in nurturing proficiency across multiple domains. This stance aligns with the ethos of numerous American universities, which embrace well-rounded individuals, exemplifying scholarly excellence and exhibiting leadership acumen in their passions and dedicated involvement in community service.

isitachoice?

What is IQ vs. EQ?

IQ, or Intelligence Quotient, is a measure of cognitive ability and intellectual potential. It gauges reasoning, problemsolving, and learning aptitude. IQ tests compare an individual's performance with others of the same age, offering insight into their intellectual strengths and areas for development. This number shares how far above or below their peer group people stand in intellectual ability. In all cases, the peer group's average score or average IQ is 100.

Those who are geniuses have a very high IQ. Experts believe that Albert Einstein had an IQ of between 160 and 180. People with a score of at least 140 are considered to be geniuses.

IQ demonstrates abilities such as:

• Logical reasoning

• Knowledge of the world

• Visual and spatial processing

• Working memory and short-term memory

• Quantitative reasoning

EQ, Emotional Quotient, refers to a person's ability to evaluate, manage and express emotions. Researchers such as John Mayer and Peter Salovey and psychologist/ author Daniel Goleman have espoused emotional intelligence, catapulting the concept in education and business management.

EQ demonstrates abilities such as:

• Identifying emotions

• Evaluating how others feel

• Managing one's own emotions

• Empathizing with others

• Leveraging emotions to facilitate communications

In the past, IQ was considered the only determinant of success. The assumption was that high-IQ individuals were destined for accomplished lives. Yet critics began to realize that a high IQ does not guarantee life success.

IQ is a narrow concept that must fully appreciate human abilities' breadth and

complexity. That said, IQ is still recognized as a vital element of success, particularly regarding academic achievement. But today, experts acknowledge that IQ is not the only variable that determines life success.

Since Goleman mainstreamed emotional intelligence, the importance of it has become widely validated – especially in the business world. "While the question of which is more important, IQ or EQ, is often asked, the answer is quite complex and not particularly helpful. It is like asking which is more important, the heart or the lungs. They are both important, and the more relevant question might be, how they are important and, to what degree are they connected to each other?" (1)

Goleman shares that IQ may help us get the job from a technical competency level, but our EQ helps us advance throughout our careers. As we progress, our tasks shift us from participant to leader. In a leadership role, we must connect with others to accomplish goals. Nobel prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman believes that we buy from people we trust and may even pay more for the psychological safety of working with someone we trust. Studies on the success of salespeople have validated this. Much of our success comes from an authentic ability to connect with others.

Can EQ be learned? Absolutely.

"Strategies for teaching emotional intelligence include character education, modeling positive behaviors, encouraging people to think about how others are feeling, and finding ways to be more empathetic toward others." (2)

Cultivating Emotional Intelligence (EQ) in children is paramount for their holistic growth and future success, spanning personal and professional realms. As parents, you play a pivotal role in shaping your children's emotional development. Here are some tips on fostering EQ:

Leading by Example: Children glean valuable insights from your actions and reactions. Showcase emotional intelligence by managing emotions constructively, embodying empathy, understanding, and effective communication.

Facilitating Open Dialogue: Foster an atmosphere where your child feels safe expressing their emotions. Please encourage them to share their feelings openly, without judgment or criticism.

Active Listening Skills: Instill the significance of active listening by genuinely engaging with their thoughts. This fosters their understanding that their emotions and ideas are essential.

Nurturing Empathy: Cultivating empathy in your child involves promoting an understanding of others' emotions and viewpoints. However, the most influential method is to exemplify empathy by genuinely attempting to comprehend your child's perspective—stepping into their shoes and appreciating their point of view.

In summary, IQ and EQ intricately contribute to overall success, nurturing both life accomplishments and holistic well-being. Rather than comparing, the value lies in cultivating balanced proficiency across both. As we prepare our children for life's challenges, research, and experience demonstrate that cultivating both dimensions equips them for a world that demands multifaceted skills and empathetic leadership.

1. Deutschendorf H. Is IQ or EQ more important in determining your success at work? Fast Company; 2020.

2. Cherry K. Is IQ or EQ More Important? Verywellmind; 2020.

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

Seasonal Recipes

STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

As September arrives and the weather cools, we seek comfort in delightful dishes from our local Farmers Market. This month’s recipe is Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables—a wholesome and colorful dish that embodies the late summer spirit. The ripe cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and yellow squash blend seamlessly with quinoa filling, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Celebrate the magic of our local markets and the richness of the season in every delightful bite.

with Quinoa & Roasted Vegetables

INGREDIENTS

• 4 large bell peppers (assorted colors), tops removed, seeds and membranes removed

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 2 cups vegetable broth or water

• 1 small zucchini, diced

• 1 small yellow squash, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or your favorite cheese (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the quinoa:

In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside.

Roast the vegetables:

On a baking sheet, toss the diced zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Spread the vegetables out in a single layer and roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Prepare the bell peppers:

Lightly brush the outside of each bell pepper with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt. In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the bell peppers for about 3 minutes to soften slightly. Drain and set aside.

Stuff the bell peppers:

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the

quinoa and roasted vegetable mixture.

Optional cheese topping:

If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or your favorite cheese on top of each stuffed bell pepper.

Bake the stuffed bell peppers:

Place the stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese (if using) is melted and bubbly.

Serve and enjoy:

Remove the stuffed bell peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve as a wholesome and flavorful meal.

Living it up at the at the...

By Elyse Glickman

e’re in a time of transition, and like other prime travel destinations around the world, Santa Barbara is in the throes of it. At the moment, the area south of the tracks and the freeway—a.k.a. The Funk Zone—is the most fashionable neighborhood and perhaps the most “Southern Californian” in terms of what it offers, what it looks like, and how it makes you feel when you’re in the thick of it. It’s an area where the sporty, the beachy, the artistic, and an Old Money/Old Hollywood past co-exist. And in the heart of it, there’s the Hotel Californian (consisting of the main The Californian Building, The State Building, and The Mason Building) looking as grand as ever and, yet, feeling as fresh as the breeze coming off the beach a few blocks away.

The property, built in 1925, is doing its part to keep the Santa Barbara dream alive. While the town is definitely not your grandmother’s Santa Barbara, the hotel offers cinematic views of the ocean, mountains, and a sort of behind-the-scenes look at how the Funk Zone is propelling the city’s evolution with the influx of stylish and quirky winery tasting rooms, an increasingly global dining scene, and specialty retail. It’s also reassuring that Stearns Wharf, the state’s oldest working wharf, remains a constant anchor to the city’s long-standing status as a quintessentially California weekend destination.

Photos by Elyse Glickman & The Hotel Californian

The Hotel Californian, in its current iteration, opened its doors to great fanfare in 2017. In 2023, it remains at once a visual representation of what Santa Barbara was in the 20th century and what it will become in this one. A lot of the buzz with the hotel’s re-opening came from the transformation executed by interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, who juxtaposed the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture of the era with smart Moroccan influences. Bullard recognized that the hotel was a product of 1920s Hollywood, setting the scene for stars and elites to enjoy exclusive access to peak California culture. To keep it relevant for discerning travelers a century later, he made a conscious decision to avoid the familiar Santa Barbara blue/white/seafoam hotel color scheme and opt for mostly black, white, gold, and bright earth tones and Art Deco-inspired accents and fixtures to connect the two 20s decades.

Bullard’s procurement of over one million handcrafted tiles from Morocco got a lot of attention, but interiors remain fresh because of the curated furnishings, fine amenities, top-tier bedding and sheets, and restraint with the occasional “pops” of color. What makes it so inviting in 2023— even as the city evolves—are exclusive features from a perfectly appointed fitness room to the Majorelle Spa’s inclusion of a Moroccan hammam, a rooftop deck, and pool in the second building, and Djinn, the lobby-adjoining Moroccan-inspired library lounge serving up craft cocktails and evening entertainment. The star attraction at Djinn is Devon Espinosa, who refined his cocktail crafting technique at West Hollywood’s innovative The Church Key bar.

As Santa Barbara

remains a wine lover’s paradise, the Hotel Californian’s location is not only ideal for exploring the many tasting rooms of the Funk Zone... it’s a part of the action. At the corner of the main building, the hotel’s own The Society: State & Mason regularly offers pours and flights of wines from the extensive Foley Family portfolio along with small plates from Executive Chef Travis Watson. While full-service restaurant Blackbird has become a guest and local favorite, as well as a bigger showcase for Watson’s talents, the hotel and restaurant stage regular wine dinners with Foley’s better vineyards and winemakers to dive deeper into the nuances of the vineyards’ bounties and terroir.

The hotel’s Moroccan theme of the property continues across the street on Mason with the Goat Tree restaurant, which mixes Santa Barbara’s eternal coffee house culture and baked goods with a rotation of oven-fresh pastries and baked goods, cold-

pressed juices, and a full breakfast menu that includes a hearty and authentic shakshuka (a skillet breakfast with poached eggs in a rich, spicy tomato sauce than can be stopped up with fresh pita), a fresh spin on the classic smoked salmon entree, and other surprises.

The hotel also boasts unique packages above and beyond its romantic weekend offerings, outdoor-focused experiences, and an immersion into Majorelle Spas’ wellness indulgences. Two of the most distinctive includes a wellness “survival” experience to carry the guest through Mercury Retrograde and an offering through its partnership with Corc Yoga, which includes a madein-Portugal Corc Yoga Renew mat to take home, daily private fitness classes by a wellknown fitness instructor, daily breakfast, and a welcome bottle of wine from Foley Family Wines.

However, it is safe to stay that simply staying in one of the 121 rooms (Almeria,

Sevilla, Granada, Sestina, Cordova, and Tangerinn) or suites (Magellan, Alcazar) will do wonders for a guest’s sense of well-being and state of mind. In addition to Bullard’s custom furnishings and appointments, the rooms include incredible mattresses and exquisite sheets, along with a Nespresso coffee maker, high-definition television, Malin & Goetz toiletries, free wifi, and access to other amenities such as the hotel’s tech & game library, Tesla & standard EV car chargers, and usage of custom Hotel Californian bicycles during the stay. Special event and meeting spaces are equally impressive, ensuring your gathering’s attendees feel like the original VIPs who patronized the hotel.

Rooms begin at $747 per night. Hotel Californian 36 State Street, Santa Barbara (805) 882-0100