Ben Malkin

Pacific Festival Ballet celebrated their annual Sugar Plum Fairy fundraiser and luncheon at North Ranch Country Club. The Sugar Plum Fairy theme always leads to their annual production of “The Nutcracker” ballet led by Artistic Director Kim Maselli. Our Conejo Valley community always looks forward to this treasured event that starts the Christmas season. When I was a child, our house was often full of classical music. Tchaikovsky's score is particularly special to children.

Want to start a publication? Learn More Featured Article Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Recognition Gala Article by Ben Malkin Originally published in Conejo Valley Lifestyle The Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce celebrated their 2025 Recognition Gala at the Hyatt Regency Westlake. Among the honorees were Woman of the Year Jill Haney of Montecito Bank & Trust and Ambassador of the Year Debby Giovinazzo of Sunland Vintage Winery.

Nestled in the heart of Thousand Oaks, Marcello Ristorante is a 35-year-old “hidden gem” that offers a remarkable dining experience. Rather than the standard chicken piccata, chicken parm or alfredo this or that, Marcello offers Italian dishes that take you back to your recent trip to Italy. What is even better is that the new owners, the brother team of Edwin and Anthony Khaziran, have brought new energy and vitality to the entire operation and have also started to expand and update the menu.