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November is traditionally our “Thankful” issue, where we highlight gratitude for what is meaningful in our lives and how we celebrate Thanksgiving. In my most uncertain moments and greatest mistakes, the most transformative exercise for me is the intentional practice of gratitude.
At my darkest, through clenched hands and forced effort, listing the people, things, and circumstances I am grateful for has moved me out of the shadows and into the light. It’s not always instant or recognizable, but there is a profound shift that takes place by pausing and acknowledging all the joy in my life. A written list surprises my stubborn self and refocuses me on what’s important.
As we enter November, especially this year, it’s understandable to feel unsettled and divided. However, Santa Barbara is an incredible community, and I’m grateful that we at Santa Barbara Coast aim to share what unites us, as well as community resources and non-profits serving our people wholeheartedly.
When this issue comes to you, the media and the voices around you will likely be intense. I’d like to take this opportunity to encourage us to focus on the ways that we can be grateful despite our differences and use that energy to build a place we are proud of.
I am thankful for you, our readers, the businesses supporting this magazine, and our community that pours passion and perseverance into everyday life.
Your turn: What are you thankful for?
MELISSA PEDRAZZINI, PUBLISHER @SANTABARBARACITYLIFESTYLE
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Melissa Pedrazzini | melissa.pedrazzini@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Samantha Durbin | samantha.durbin@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Tracy Marcynzsyn | tracy.marcynzsyn@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Emily Merrill, Sara Prince
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: 2024 Zoofari Honorary Chairs Tracy & Rich Block 2: 2024 Zoofari Ball committee 3: Rich Kenny at the Carpinteria Arts & Crafts Faire @richkennryart.official 4: Fierce females at Zoofari Ball 5: Carmen Guitierrez at the Carpinteria Arts & Crafts Faire @carmensewingcrafts_ 6: The Crawford Family at Zoofari Ball 7: Derek Shue, Zoo Board President, and friends
The Harbor Restaurant on Stearns Wharf has reopened, unveiling a stunning renovation, a talented new culinary team, and an elevated experience for its guests. John and Olesya Thyne, along with partners Gene Sanchez and Carolina Jimenez, have taken the helm of this beloved restaurant, transforming it into a must-visit destination that blends modern design with a legacy of coastal charm. @harborrestaurantsb
Scan to read more
Lama Dog has opened their highly-anticipated second location in collaboration with Sama Sama Kitchen in Santa Barbara’s Uptown Neighborhood at 3435 State Street near the cross of Las Positas/S. Ontare. More room, more taps...amazing food. @lamadogtaproom @samasamakitchen
The delightful Macy Della Hoey has opened a delightful and thoughtfully curated women’s shop on Chapala across from the Chandler Salon. Specializing in 50-80’s vintage, she has wonderful pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Macy brings years of fashion experience to Santa Barbara with a circulation program and personal styling...just in time for the holidays. Scan to read more
As Casa del Herrero embarks on our $18 Million Capital Campaign in celebration of the estate’s 100th anniversary in 2025, we ask for your support to help us continue our mission of protecting and preserving the history and beauty of this
ARTICLE BY TRACY MARCYNZSYN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CASA
STEP UP TO SUPPORT YOUTH IN CRISIS
Many are surprised to learn that hundreds of children who have experienced abuse and neglect need assistance right here in Santa Barbara County. Each year, over 500 children receive help from dedicated volunteers who serve with CASA, CourtAppointed Special Advocates . The local nonprofit’s mission is to “assure a safe, permanent, nurturing home for every abused and/or neglected child by providing a highly trained volunteer to advocate for them in the court system.”
“A gift of $2,500 supports an entire year of advocacy for a child.”
“Our county is not an outlier,” says Kira Cosio, Community Engagement Director at CASA of Santa Barbara County. “We’re pretty average with the number of kids here who are experiencing abuse or neglect, and it happens across every socioeconomic class.”
More than 200 residents serve as CASA volunteers. They provide mentorship, friendship, and support to children through age 21 who are in the foster care system while advocating for their best interests. The agency’s primary challenge right now is the need for volunteers.
“It just takes one stable relationship with a caring adult to help reverse the negative impacts on a child who has experienced abuse or neglect,” says Kim Colby Davis, Executive Director, noting that children with a CASA volunteer have access to more services and are more likely to thrive.
“CASA volunteers are there to break them out of the environment, have some fun, and let them be a child,” says Colby Davis, adding that volunteers are assigned to advocate and submit reports to the court until the case closes.
CASA volunteers receive training and support to serve children in need, and anyone 21 and older who passes a background check and has the time and desire to help can apply.
The community can also support the organization by donating online or by participating in their Christmas Wishes Gift Drive.
“We aim to provide Christmas gifts for every child in the foster care system,” says Cosio, noting that local businesses can get involved by rallying together to buy gifts.
All donations to CASA, including the Gift Drive, are tax-deductible. A gift of $2,500 supports an entire year of advocacy for a child.
SBCASA.org
e-Bikery serves up community spirit
ARTICLE BY TRACY MARCYNZSYN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANELISE NASCENTE
It’s often said that necessity is the mother of invention, and such is the case with e-Bikery in Santa Barbara. Owners Fernando Tessari and Anelise Nascente discovered the need for a quality e-bike shop back in 2018 while she was attending Santa Barbara City College.
“I purchased an electric bike for my daily commute to SBCC since it was hard to find a parking spot and parking was expensive,” recalls Anelise, who had relocated from Brazil with partner Fernando—they left behind successful executive careers to pursue the American dream and raise their kids in a safer environment.
Surprised at the difficulty of purchasing a quality e-bike and accessories, the couple’s wheels began turning.
“We couldn’t believe how stressful the whole process was, especially in a city like Santa Barbara, which was investing in bike infrastructure, such as more parking spots and bike paths,” says Fernando. “We were looking for a business to invest in…”
Fast-forward to 2024, and e-Bikery has become a thriving community hub, offering e-bikes for sale and rent, the latest accessories, and top-quality services.
“Above all is our commitment to excellent customer service,” he says. “Our team is always there to help find the best solution for each customer, respect the differences, and bring everyone the joy of riding an electric bike.”
The family-owned shop’s commitment to community goes beyond helping the environment to lending a hand to local nonprofits.
“E-bikes are great for your health and the environment, saving you money on transportation and providing endless miles of fun,” says Fernando. “We’re passionate about e-bikes; they offer a simple solution
to many complex problems, like reducing carbon emissions in short-distance deliveries, like the Sweet Wheel Farm project.”
Inspired by e-Bikery employee and San Marcos High Schooler Ethan K., a collaboration between Sweet Wheel Farm, e-Bikery, and e-bike maker Aventon helped address food insecurity.
Joining the farm’s mission to deliver free organic food to 200+ people weekly, e-Bikery and Aventon donated four Pace 500.3 e-bikes with baskets and locks, plus assembly and maintenance.
“One of the biggest e-bike manufacturers in the U.S., Aventon’s e-bikes balance high quality and accessible price. Being part of a project like Sweet Wheel Farm is extremely gratifying because it positively impacts our community,” says Fernando. “We try to help as much as we can.”
Visit e-Bikery at 590 E. Gutierrez Street, Suite A, or call 805.869.2574.
Raise your hand if setting the table was one of your holiday tasks. If this was you begrudgingly, try taking it outside. That’s the idea Nicole Leza, founder and creative director of Santa Barbara Picnic Co., created her business around. And Santa Barbara, with arguably perfect weather, allows for the holidays and their grand meals to be celebrated outside. That’s something to be grateful for.
Nicole’s approach to a Thanksgiving tablescape reflects her design philosophy of “achieving a harmonious balance of color, texture, and dimension.” Even if it’s foggy or chilly, Nicole recommends evoking warmth and coziness with soft linens, textured greenery and florals, warm-toned glassware, and, of course, candles.
“I often use neutral tones as the base, accented with inviting touches of color. Creating dimension is key—think layered florals, varied candle heights, and artfully arranged platters of food and fruits. My goal is to create a table that feels both elegant and welcoming.”
Bring in woven materials, like baskets and placemats. Heavier fabrics can add rich texture and be more element-resistant. And how does Nicole work around unruly wind?
“Adjust your tablescape styling, such as folding napkins under plates instead of opting for a loose style. Adding weights like decorative rocks can hold down floral arrangements.”
Peruse her Instagram, and you’ll wonder how Nicole pulls off a beach picnic with aplomb. She makes it look easy and beautiful with calculated props. “We use extra-large Turkish blankets from Riviera Towel Company as the base under everything, providing plenty of space for cushions and seating without getting sandy. We also dust off the blankets before arranging cushions to keep everything clean and comfortable.”
santabarbarapicnicco.com
GUEST CHEF BRITTANY MEADTH’S MENU AND HOSTING TIPS
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY MERRILL
Meet our gal for fresh, seasonal recipes, Brittany Meadth. A chef and mother of four, her family is large, and her extended family larger—she knows a thing or three about holiday cooking. Brittany’s found that delicate balance of preparing traditional dishes while avoiding laboring in the kitchen all day so she too can enjoy time with family and friends. She’s even successfully rallied kids to be her sous chefs. Brittany offers private cooking classes to the food curious out of her Montecito kitchen, and she helped create our simplified Thanksgiving meal. Dig in.
ingredients
• 10 carrots
• ½ cup fresh dill
• 3 sprigs of thyme
• 1 cup labneh
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
directions
1. Preheat oven to 400° F
2. Wash, peel, and prep your carrots. If carrots are skinny, you can peel them and place them onto a cookie sheet. If the carrots are thicker in diameter you can cut them lengthwise into halves.
3. Drizzle honey and olive oil over carrots on baking sheet. Use your hands to make sure the carrots are properly coated on all sides.
4. Add salt and pepper
5. Bake in the oven at 400° F for about 25-30 minutes
6. Take them out of the oven and set aside
7. On a large serving plate add about a cup (or more) of labneh. My favorite is called Luretik (you can but it locally at Macher in Goleta).
8. Add your carrots then freshly chopped dill and thyme to the top
9. Drizzle a good olive oil over the whole thing
Hosting Tip: “Ask for help from the right people. Some people aren’t going to be comfortable making bread rolls or a dessert, but maybe they’re great at making salad. Others can be asked to bring drinks or clean afterward. Nobody is a mind-reader—don’t be afraid to set up a spreadsheet where they can sign up!”
ingredients
• 10 small yellow gold potatoes
• 1/2 tablespoon baking soda
• olive oil
• salt
• rosemary, garlic, chives (optional)
directions
1. Preheat oven to 400° F
2. In a large Dutch oven, bring water, baking soda, and salt to a boil. Place unpeeled potatoes into the water and reduce the heat to medium-low. Once the potatoes are soft to touch (20-25 min), drain and let sit for 10 minutes.
3. On a cutting board, grab a potato and use any large object (wine bottle, glass jar) and smash down the potato. Do this gently and have a spatula close by to transfer to a baking dish. Once you have smashed all the potatoes, add salt and olive oil.
4. Place in oven and roast for 20 minutes or until crispy
5. Top with the garlic, rosemary, and fresh chives
Cooking tip: “I don’t peel my potatoes because who really has time for that? The secret to this recipe: baking soda. The baking soda makes the water alkaline which helps break down the surface of the potatoes, making them very crispy and very delicious.”
ingredients
• 3 honeynut squash
• olive oil
• salt
• pepper
• smoked paprika
• pomegranates
directions
1. Preheat oven to 400° F
2. Slice the squashes in half, remove all the seeds
3. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast for 30 minutes
4. Add smoked paprika and pomegranates to serve
Hosting tip: “It’s all in the way you present it to kids…when you ask your kids to join, try not to make it sound like a punishment. Emphasize that they have a responsibility prepping really yummy food. Include a special drink for the kids while they’re helping, like spiced apple cider. Adjust your expectations to allow for extra mess, extra time, and know it won’t turn out exactly as if you’d had done it yourself. But the tradeoff of creating happy memories is 100% worth it.”
ingredients
CRUST
• 12 graham crackers
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1⁄4 cup brown sugar
FILLING
• 4 sticks of cream cheese (room temp)
• 1-1⁄2 cup sugar
• 5 large eggs (room temp)
• 2-1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• zest of whole lemon
CARAMEL
• 1-1⁄4 cup sugar
• 1-1⁄3 cup water
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup unsalted or salted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
directions
Preheat oven to 350° F
CRUST
1. In a food processor, add the graham crackers, butter, and brown sugar. Blend until sand-like texture.
2. In a springform pan, add parchment paper and butter the sides
3. Place crust into the pan and pat down to form a smooth base
4. Set in the fridge and chill for 15 minutes
FILLING
1. Add the cream cheese to a standing mixer. Make sure it’s room temperature—this is an important step!
2. With your whisk attachment on medium speed, mix the cream cheese. Once it becomes fluffy, add the sugar and one egg at a time. Scrape down sides as needed.
3. Remove the pan with the crust from the fridge, add the batter to the pan, and place into your preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
4. Remove from the oven and let sit. Once cool, cover and place in the fridge.
CARAMEL
1. In a saucepan, add the sugar and water. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved. Keep heat on medium. Watch the sugar water—it will slowly go from a light brown to a rich amber color.
2. Once it turns amber in color, add the heavy whipping cream and butter and whisk
3. Turn the heat off and let sit for 5 minutes
4. Remove cheesecake from the fridge and add the caramel to the top
Holiday workshops and popups to spark the soul
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN
A creative workshop is a fun and therapeutic experience that can serve as a memorable gift. Or, you can extend an invitation to attend a holiday market with family or a friend to spend time together and support local makers. Here are some holiday workshops and markets that serve as gift ideas that think outside the box.
I’ll never forget the artwork my son created in one of Geraldine Otto’s workshops that served as framed gifts for grandparents. She offers seasonal workshops for families with kids 6 and older, as well as private painting parties for kids and adults up to 12 guests. artstudio4kids.com
You can book a private crafting session, from floral arranging to creating “Hot Mess” canvases, and this local creative hub has a holiday lineup that includes a jovial crafting, cocktails, and karaoke event in December. Let the crafting festivities begin. thecrafterslibrary.com
If you like the food in this issue, consider gifting a cooking class with our guest chef, Brittany Meadth. You can book a private cooking class in Brittany’s Montecito home, which includes connecting with community and cooking with fresh ingredients. brittany-meadth.com
From painting parties to wine art classes for adults, Danielle brings cheer to every workshop. Join her holiday decor workshop on November 15 to make ornaments, stockings, and painted wine glasses or beer steins that serve as gifts that keep giving. daniellereneeart.com
The festive programming at this elegant hotel ranges from author talks (Gillian Flynn!) in November to calligraphy workshops, challah braiding, and more in December. A holiday chocolate-making class with Jessica Foster is my pick. Valet parking is complimentary. belmond.com
This local nonprofit aims to protect and preserve the planet with innovative programs and nature-based learning. Every Saturday, they host crafternoons where anyone 5 or older can create from hundreds of reuse materials for $8/person. For adults and teens, open workshops for $12/person allow two hours of creation time in their fully-equipped studio space. You can bring materials from home or shop their Art from Scrap store beforehand. exploreecology.org
On December 7, create living potted arrangements with double-bloom petite Sonatini Amaryllis bulbs accented with live moss followed by a guided greenhouse tour of orchids and poinsettias. Take home your newly planted Amaryllis and seasonal poinsettia and call it a holiday. gallup-stribling.com
Lindsay Gould’s handmade soaps and candles serve as self-care odes to the area. Her soaps are made from natural botanicals, and her candles have locally inspired scents like Mesa Lane and San Roque Sound. Her candle-making workshops include scent customization and gorgeous glass vessels. goldenarrowgoods.com
Offer a friend a date to browse a local makers’ market with you and buy them something they admire along the way. These downtown monthly markets celebrate small businesses, offering artisanal goods for locals, by locals. There are daytime and night markets in the winter, where live music and food vendors complete the lively market experience. curatedcollectivesb.com
You can always count on MOXI to inspire creation, and their Innovation workshops deliver holiday vibes in nuanced ways. In November, “Threads of Creativity” will explore cozy textures with knits, felt, and sewn materials. “End-of-Year Engineer” in December will encourage problem-solving using engineering. moxi.org
If there were a time to stroll this monthly market, it’s during the holidays when you’ll find exciting gifts for everyone on your list (plus yourself). Supporting local women of color, the vibe is friendly, and the goods are unique. This market is also a vintage treasure trove. mujeresmakersmarket.com
AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMANTHA DURBIN
GOOD LAND WINE SHOP’S DOUG TRANTOW’S HOST BOTTLE RECOS (WITH TASTING NOTES)
Good Land Wine Shop only sells wines produced and grown in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. Stop by, have a tasting, and pick up one of these recommended host bottles for your next gathering. goodlandwineshop.com
2019 Sanguis “The Modern” Santa Maria Valley Syrah blend. “A purity to the fruit, you’re tasting the place.” ($77)
2023 Rooted Vine Nekton Rosé. Small batch. Winemaker Iaon Pohlit is owner and captain of Rooted Vine Tours. “Light, copper color..fresh, vibrant rosé.” ($35)
2021 Mail Road Pinot Noir, from the area’s highest vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills. “Not fruit-forward. Adverse weather makes for the best wines.” ($59)
2018 Penville Enz Vineyard Mourvedre from one of the oldest wineries in CA still producing. “Minerality, earthy, what’s not happening in here?” ($43)
2023 Fuil Bán White Blend. 100% chardonnay. “Vibrant & fresh.” Editor approved as not tasting like an oaky chardonnay. ($32)
NOVEMBER 1ST – 27TH
Heat Cooking Classes @heatculinary
HEAT Culinary, Santa Barbara (619 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93013) | 6:30 PM
November cooking classes include: Farmhouse Supper - November 10, 5pm. Brown Butter Baking - November 24, 10am. Keto Sides - November 25, 6:30pm. Take and Bake Thanksgiving Pies - November 27, 6:30pm.
NOVEMBER 2ND
Mission Creek Beer Festival @sbnature
Natural History Museum - Prehistoric Forest | 2:00 PM
Enjoy beer tastings and a macaroni and cheese cook off with live music and presentations by participating breweries. Featured vendors include brewLAB, Draughtsmen Aleworks, Island Brewing, Finch and Fork, La Paloma Cafe, Night Lizard Brewing Company, The Nook, Rincon Brewery, Soul Bites, Tarantula Hill Brewing, and Third Window Brewing. Tickets limited to 350 guests.
NOVEMBER 3RD
Santa Barbara Half Marathon and 5K @santabarbarahalf
Downtown Santa Barbara - State and Cabrillo | 7:00 AM
The Santa Barbara Half Marathon features the 13.1 mile distance, a 5K (3.1 miles) as well as a free kids fun run. You’ll also enjoy the American Riviera all weekend long with our downtown Santa Barbara packet pickup and finish line festival! 7:00am – Half Marathon presented by HOKA. 8:30am – SB Independent 5K. 10:00am – Kids Run.
NOVEMBER 7TH
First Thursday Art Walk @downtownsantabarbara
Downtown Santa Barbara | 5:00 PM
1st Thursday is an evening of art and culture in downtown Santa Barbara. On the first Thursday of each month, participating galleries and venues offer free access to visual and performing arts in a fun and social environment. Venues feature attractions such as art openings, live music, artists’ receptions, lectures, wine tastings, and hands-on activities.
NOVEMBER 9TH
Santa Barbara Wine Auction @santabarbarawinecountry
Ritz-Carlton Bacara Ballroom | 6:00 PM
The Santa Barbara Wine Auction is a biennial event where the wine industry comes together to raise funds for Direct Relief’s work to provide essential medical resources to doctors and community health workers worldwide. Dinner by Guest Chefs Neil Fraser (Redbird LA), Jason Paluska (the Lark) and Lincoln Carson. The evening will honor Presqu’ile as the Winery Honoree.
NOVEMBER 11TH
Veterans Day Ceremony
Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive | 11:00 AM
Presented by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1649 and the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early; the ceremony begins at 11:00 AM sharp and concludes with a spectacular flyover by The Condor Squadron. The ceremony will take place near the main flagpole, with seating available for up to 500, with additional standing room. FREE EVENT.
NOVEMBER 13TH – JANUARY 12TH
Zoo Lights @santabarbarazoo
Santa Barbara Zoo
See the Zoo in a whole new light at the 3rd Annual ZooLights! Watch the Zoo transform after dark into a magical world of lights, featuring thousands of handcrafted silk-covered lanterns lit with more than 50,000 LED bulbs. Open daily.
NOVEMBER 15TH
Nature
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden | 5:00 PM
Experience the Garden as it transforms after dark. Discover what insects fly about at our black-light station, enjoy a puppet show as we play with shadows or immerse yourself under the full moon as you enjoy a guided walk. The event takes place almost entirely in the dark; flashlights recommended. Members: Adult ($7), Children ($5). Public: Adult ($10), Children ($8).
NOVEMBER 20TH
Pearl Social - Funk Zone
Miracle at the Funk Zone is excited to present Kid’s Cookie Decorating class. This hands-on class will include a demonstration, cookies, decorating materials, a glass of sparkling wine for one adult, letter to Santa, a walk-through of Miracle at Pearl Social, and a surprise special guest! Children must have an adult for this class. For children 12 and under.
NOVEMBER 20TH – JANUARY 20TH
Seaside Sock Skating @moxisb
Moxi Museum - 125 State Street Santa Barbara | 9:00 AM
November 20 – January 20, 2025. Enjoy frictionless fun at MOXI’s rooftop sock skating rink. Kids and adults can kick off their shoes to slide and glide across a specialty tile floor reminiscent of ice, without the chill. Sock skating is included with museum admission. https:// moxi.org/exhibit/seaside-sock-skating/
NOVEMBER 22ND – 24TH
Earl Warren Showgrounds | 11:00 AM
Over 60 quality dealers from around the country, offering an array of merchandise to please any shopper. From tin to Tiffany, furniture, jewelry, paintings, silver, China, pottery, lighting, textiles, Native American, vintage fashion, oriental rugs, mid-century modern, Asian antiques...rare and hard to find items. Adults: $10, seniors $7, children under 12 free.
NOVEMBER 23RD
UCSB Lagoon Lawn | 8:30 AM 8:30 am: check-in. 9:30 am: 10K run starts. 9:40 am: 5K walk/run starts. The event is scheduled to happen rain or shine! The course features breathtaking views of the ocean, campus lagoon, and Isla Vista. This event is open to UCSB students, staff, faculty, and community members and offers men’s, women’s, and open divisions. Prizes are awarded for each division.
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