December 17th, 2014 at 9:00 am
Although those of us in sun-soaked Southern California don’t experience the same frigid temperatures as other parts of the United States, that doesn’t mean we should miss out on one of the best fashion trends of the season. The winter weather gets just cool enough to incorporate our favorite winter accessory: the scarf. This wonderful wardrobe addition can make our outfit go from average to astonishing. The way you wear it or style it can bring a whole new look to your favorite ensemble. Whether you prefer to go with a simple neck tie or wear it as a classic headscarf a la Grace Kelly, it’s your not-to-forget fashion piece this season.
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December 17th, 2014 at 8:00 am
What:
Many of us have seen the holiday classic “The Nutcracker,” but fewer have seen “La Pastorela” (”A Shepherd’s Play.”)This production dramatizes the battle between good and evil. It was transcribed in the mid-19th century by Pablo de la Guerra. This particular production will be in Spanish.
Where:
El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park
123 E. Canon Perdido St.
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
When:
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December 16th, 2014 at 4:00 pm
What:
Experience an exclusive afternoon of special tastings and lunch while taking in the breathtaking scenery and views at Sanford Winery. A tasting of Sauvignon Blanc starts the day off right, followed by a private picnic lunch complemented by a Pinot Noir or Chardonnay overlooking the Santa Rita Hills American Viticultural Area. The day ends with another sampling of select wines at a grand discount for all our guests.
Where:
Sanford Winery and Vineyards
5010 Santa Rosa Road
Lompoc, CA, 93436
When:
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December 16th, 2014 at 10:00 am
Fran’s Chocolates has friends in high places. How high?
According to The Huffington Post, our chocoholic in chief treats White House visitors to the milk chocolate and smoked salt caramels from Seattle-based Fran’s. The first lady prefers the gray salt ones.
And top chef Bobby Flay raved last month to People Magazine that Fran’s coconut gold bars “are the best gourmet candy bars ever. Hands down. No competition.”
That’s how sweet it is these days for Fran Bigelow. For more than 30 years, this master chocolatier has been setting candy trends. She was selling miniature chocolate bars and elegant truffles before they became ubiquitous.
Fran’s passion for chocolates began with her first taste of French confections in 1969. The rich and delicate flavors captivated her senses unlike anything she had experienced. In 1982, she opened Fran’s Patisserie and Chocolate Specialties in Seattle, finding special satisfaction in sharing the pure joy of chocolate with her customers.
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December 11th, 2014 at 12:00 pm
What:
Sponsored by the Lions Club of Carpinteria and hosted by Hickey Brothers Land Co., the fifth annual Festival of Trees is now open. Proceeds from this event benefit the Carpinteria High School Field Restoration Project. This year, 26 local businesses and nonprofits are participating by decorating a 6 ½-foot pre-lit artificial Christmas tree with their own unique holiday theme. Each participant will supply the holiday decorations and gifts for their tree in the amount of $300 or more. Previously, the festival raised more than $14,000 through the sale of $1 raffle tickets. This year, the Lions Club hopes to raise $20,000.
Where:
700 Linden Ave.
Carpinteria, CA 93013
When:
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