Dishing It Out For Charity Thoughts

I've been going to The Sunset restaurant in Malibu for a long time. As a kid, it was many birthdays and other holidays with new family and even new friends. I got to know all sorts of people. But it were these individuals that—little did I know at the time—who would soon become apart of my new family. This is because my mom fell in love, and on May 12th, 2016 married restauranteur Franco Simplicio.

Over the years since, Franco has become so much more than just my step-father, but my friend, supporter and trusted mentor. I go to him for advice and wisdom. He's truly such a blessing on so many different levels and been an incredible addition to my life. His two sons, Luca and Oliver, both became my step-brothers and have been by my side ever since. I adore them both and can't imagine what my world would look like without them too.

So, when Franco decided to sign up for 805 Living Magazines, "Dishing It Our For Charity" fundraiser and made the beneficiary The LucStrong Foundation, I actually wasn't surprised at all. Because that is the man he is and always has been. He's always found creative ways to be giving, kind, considerate and charitable, despite being the busy business man he always is too. He is someone that always looks for another chair to add to his table, and it's a pretty inspiring thing to be around.

Each year, 805 Living Magazine recognizes a select group of restaurants to feature in their charitable drive, and The Sunset restaurant until December 31st, 2021 will be donating two dollars of all profits raised from the sale of their pumpkin tortellini dish to The LucStrong Foundation. A charity, that is incredibly near and dear to my heart. So, to all of you reading, please find a night to take your someone special down to The Sunset for a nice dinner by the water. I promise you won't be disappointed.

Last night, I was able to go to my favorite ocean-side eatery myself and enjoy this family recipe while remembering why it is so important to always be giving back to those less fortunate this time of year. So, good on you Franco. Thank you so much for doing this. What a tremendous way to give back.

Have a safe and happy holiday everyone! Smile!

JD

For more information about The Sunset Restaurant or 805 Living Magazine and the, "Dishing It Out For Charity" Fundraiser, please find each website below.

www.thesunsetrestaurant.com
www.805living.com