In the spirit of the holidays, our December issue offers plenty of ideas for gift-giving--from the Holiday Gift Guide (a collection of selections from our favorite local merchants) to a round-up of local philanthropists whose generosity reaches beyond our region, and who may inspire you to give to a local nonprofit this season. You'll also find other ways to enjoy the winter: see a holiday show, try a hearty recipe, listen to a local musician's surf sounds, or get glammed up for festive parties. Whatever you do, we wish you peaceful, meaningful holidays.



FEATURES:

Real Life Angels
Our second annual look at local charitable figures highlights a few high-flying, globe-trotting givers who are helping to make the world a better place.

Mission Accomplished?
Five years after the San Simeon earthquake, Mission San Miguel Arcángel still struggles to pick up the pieces. John Mackey brings us up to speed while we take a look back at the pre-earthquake days.

Front & Center

Monthly Calendar and Spotlight

Coastal Seen:
> Oaktoberfest
> An Evening at the Organic Farm
> One Winter Story


Life & Style

Style:
Get Glam for the Holidays
Don't let the holiday lights outshine you this season. Check out the latest trends in fashion from the style experts at Santa Barbara's Saks Fifth Avenue. How-tos, dos and don'ts, bonus tips, and more.

Seasonal Foods:
Super Soups
Hearty, healthy, and heart-warming, these satisfying seasonal soups are better served as a meal than as a side dish.


Views & Reviews

Publisher’s Perspective:
Just the Fax
Michael Vidor reflects on the information age, and how technology is moving at the speed of light.

Culture:
Son of the Sea
Los Osos surf-music composer Tim Smith's new album rides the air waves. Read the story and hear sample songs.