POWER CENTER: Assemblywoman Sheila Kuehl got an...

POWER CENTER: Assemblywoman Sheila Kuehl got an early Christmas gift this year from another Valley lawmaker. . . . Newly elected Democratic Assembly leader Richard Katz named her chairwoman of the Judiciary Committee. It’s an assignment Kuehl has long wanted. As a women’s rights lawyer, Kuehl spent many an hour at judiciary committee hearings fighting for new laws.

SANTA BARE: Rep. Elton Gallegly got unwanted holiday greetings in the mail from porn magazine chief Larry Flynt. The Hustler publisher sent the Simi Valley congressman a card adorned with a nude Santa and a risque message. “Gross,” says Gallegly, who used to represent parts of the west San Fernando Valley. Flynt sent such cards to the entire Congress. “I’m just trying to get Bosnia and the budget off their minds,” he said.

JUST THE TICKET: The audience for live theater is dying off. Literally. To ensure its longevity, producer Edmund Gaynes started Teen Tix. Tickets are two for $15, or 10 for $50, and can be redeemed by teenagers at five Valley theaters. For information or to order tickets, call 818 757-3018.