discover

DISCOVER
October 2016
OJAI MONTHLY
Lifestyle & Visitor Information
Ojai’s Ideal Day
The Mandala at the Center of It all
Cover photo
OJAI DAY, OCT. 15TH 2016
See ad on page 23
T aste of
O jai
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YOUR ENGINES!
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Visitor Information • Events • Activities • Lifestyle Tips & Tactics
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PA T T Y WA LT C H E R
20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE MATCHING
PEOPLE AND PROPERTY IN THE OJAI VALLEY
REMODELED EAST END COTTAGE
On a lush one acre lot in the East End, this completely remodeled California Cottage
is updated for modern living. Features an open floor plan, high ceilings, wood floors,
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PEOPLE AND PROPERTY IN THE OJAI VALLEY
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TABLE OF
DISCOVER
CONTENTS
October 2016
8
Editor’s Note
10
Crisis of Faith
14
New Angle on Cuba
16
Featured Event: ‘Taste of Ojai’
16
14
20 Calendar of Events
26
Stay Ojai — Hotels Guide
30 Who’s Who In Ojai
32
Eat Ojai — Restaurants Guide
37
Sold in Ojai
30
30 Featured Professional: The Pixie Tribe
40 Ojai Quick Facts
31
Top 7 Ojai Hikes
42
My Ideal Ojai Day: River Sauvageau
44 Top 5 Picks for Low-Water Hedges
42
Realtor/Partner, Ross Falvo
Creative Director, Logan Hall
DISCOVER
OJAI MONTHLY
October 2016
Editor & Publisher, Bret Bradigan
Lifestyle & Visitor Information
o jai’s ideal day
The Mandala aT The CenTer of IT all
Contact Us:
Laura Rearwin Ward, Sales Manager
805.479.5400
editor@ojaiquarterly.com
Cover photo
OJAI DAY, OCT. 15TH 2016
See ad on page 23
T asTe of
o jai
FOOD FANS START
YOUR ENGINES!
5
ways To
...
HEDGE YOUR WATER BILL
7
ways To
...
FIND YOURSELF HIKING
The contents of the Ojai Monthly may not be used,
reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means
without the written consent of the publisher.
Visitor Information • Events • Activities • Lifestyle Tips & Tactics
See More At TheOjai.net
Cover: Oak Grove School
6
OM - October / 2016
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OM - October / 2016
DISCOVER
OJAI
MONTHLY
Lifestyle & Visitor Information
MAGAZINE
HUNKERING DOWN
Bret Bradigan
In Robert Putnam’s 2000 classic, “Bowling Alone,” he expertly chronicled the ways in which
America’s social infrastructure has frayed since the 1960s. He pointed out the ills afflicting
the body politic — more people moving into neighborhoods where they are strangers, fewer
block parties, declining enrollments in Little League (and AYSO), many more hours spent
in front of the television, the decline of extended families, etc. We are becoming strangers to
each other.
This large, significant and worrying phenomenon was illustrated by the fact that we once
bowled in leagues, and now? Not so much.
You hear echoes of this in John Johnston’s article on the following page, “Crisis of Faith.” And
with an important election, especially at the local level for City Council and Ojai Unified
School District, coming Nov. 8th, the relevance is crucial.
Putnam, perhaps our country’s foremost social researcher, pointed out in a 2007 paper,
“Diversity and Community in the Twenty-First Century,” that these trends are accelerating:
people are losing their trust for each other across ethnic and economic lines, have fewer
friendships, don’t volunteer and, instead “huddle unhappily in front of the television.” I think
you can safely add social media to the “hunkering down” phenomenon. It’s confirmation
bias: people don’t want to be challenged on their views, and, instead, seek echo chambers for
those beliefs.
In that paper, Putnam finds that in more diverse neighborhoods, people trust one another
less, are less altruistic, and have fewer friends. They keep to themselves, “hunkering down,”
in his words. Not only do people in diverse neighborhoods trust those who are different
less; they also tend to be less trusting of people who are similar to them. They don’t spend as
much time volunteering in their communities.
We are becoming suspicious of each other, fragmented and atomized into clusters of resentment. Some blame diversity. Putnam doesn’t. He argues eloquently that diversity has a range
of benefits, citing the integration of institutions like the military for positive examples. In
the documentary, “City of Gold,” Pulitzer-Prize winner Jonathan Gold shows us a Los Angeles where the compelling pulse of street life centers around food. In LA’s incredible, vibrant
restaurant scene, people are making their own communities. In his memorable phrase, this is
“the miracle of entry-level capitalism.”
Glancing through this issue of Ojai Monthly, especially the voluminous number of event listings on pages 20 and 21, you would likewise have a more optimistic take on Ojai. Our social
infrastructure, while sometimes appearing tattered and torn, is as sturdy as ever. If everyone
was staying home and hunkering down, there clearly wouldn’t be so much going on.
OM - October / 2016
9
Crisis of Faith
John
O
J
ton
ohns
with
.
sons
ur institutions, like our currency,
are faith-based. Not Christian or
spiritual, rather they are made
possible by a collective subscription to the
construct. The average person must believe,
or buy into the belief, that their participation and sacrifice makes for a greater
common good. It has never been more popular to invoke
the U.S. Constitution. Memes right and left
are polluting the net with pithy and hollow
calls to action with flawed would-be syllogisms wrapped in the Bill of Rights.
But I feel it is somehow a “Fish Called
Wanda.” Kevin Kline says,”Do apes read
Nietzsche?” And Jamie lee Curtis responds,”Yes, they just don’t understand it.” I
don’t think the average citizen understands
the first thing about the Constitution. The
Four Freedoms of the First Amendment:
freedom of the press, religion, speech, and
peaceable assembly. Colin Kaepernick is a
pouty primadonna draped in a shroud of
‘60s activism and an Angela Davis afro, but
he has the constitutional right to protest as
protected under the First Amendment. So
those of you wrapping yourself in the flag
and defining patriotism for everyone else
have missed the point. People talk about the Second Amendment and naively say, “That was written
when people had flintlocks, not AR 15s.
Rifles were vastly superior to the muskets
the occupying forces had technologically.
They were more accurate and had a greater
effective range and that tactical advantage
is what allowed the citizenry to defeat a militarily superior force. I am not hear to argue
for or against gun control or the sanctity of
the right to keep and bear arms, but any discussion of the Second Amendment or, more
broadly, the Constitution has to adjust to
the relative context. It is a living, breathing
document that was written by great minds.
It is in the ideas, not the specifics.
We no longer have milk delivered by
horse-drawn cart, yet this magnificent bit of
forward thinking has survived the advent
of the automobile, the airplane, and the
computer. It was written at a time of the
By John Johnston, JM Johnston Construction
town cryer and yet it is relevant in a time of
social media and the Internet. Why? Because
the convictions contained in it inspire belief
and devotion or faith.
In economics, we use the consumer
price index to adjust for context. We take
what someone was making an hour in
1960. Then you take what a lot of bread
or a gallon of milk or a dozen eggs cost in
1960. Then you figure out what someone is
making today and what those same things
cost and you can see if you truly are ahead
or behind: The proverbial apples for apples
argument. If you simply say a house cost
$20,000 it is meaningless. But if a house is
measured in terms of full years wages you
have a relative measure. Now it costs 10
years wages housing, and has truly grown
out of reach.
You cannot be literal and enlightened. Literal interpretation and literal adherence to
any precepts produces fundamentalism or
worse. Reason, logic, fairness, equity. These
are the pillars of our faith in the system.
Everyone is aware we are not living as we
were intended to: that there is something
rotten in the State of Denmark. And like
the eponymous Hamlet we have become
haunted and neurotic in our pursuit to
restore balance. Daily life has this frenzied
break-neck pace predicated on a future
payoff. The moment no longer exists. Stolen
by an ever-elusive future calm that never
materializes. We’ve become virtual pyramid
builders. Only instead of stone,we build it
out of debt, and are enslaved to the Pharaohs
of finance. The whole thing is depressing and overwhelming, so we find a lightning rod. Why
has god forsaken us? And we find the one
issue that seems to trouble us the most and
say, “Ah, this is why the world is spinning
off its axis. If only this was not happening
everything would be OK.” And we obsess. It
may be gun control or abortion or clubbing
baby seals. It may be the evil of STRs or
global warming or petulant quarterbacks
that are shanghaaing social causes. And
those all may be symptoms of our necrotic
social fabric, but they aren’t the problem.
We have lost our faith. We have seen the
death of honor and shame. We have taken
the easy way out. Cheated where we didn’t
think it mattered. Skipped jury duty. Forgotten to vote. Skipped reporting something
or recusing ourselves when conflicted. And
it has robbed us of our faith. We no longer
have the capacity to believe in our systems.
In China there was a period of endless
conflict that consumed the country called
the Warring States period. Everything was
polarized, much like it is now. And out
of that came Confucius. And his message
was simple: if it is not good for the whole
than we can ill afford it. While it obviously
paved the way for Communism, it was required in order to heal the nation. We must
find common ground. We must return to
civil and rational discourse on tough issues.
If it is reduced to broaching a subject and
the response is: “You’re a moron. You clearly
don’t understand.”
“F&*% you.”
“Your mother’s a w^#@*!”
We are lost, brothers and sisters. We have
lost our connection to each other. Like some
fevered auto-immune disease we are mistaking other healthy parts of ourselves and
savagely attacking to our own destruction.
Service and sacrifice are what’s missing.
Apathy, self-service, greed can get you
through the day, but make for long nights.
We must find a way to compromise and
come together. If it is reduced to demonizing
the opposition, we are done. We will have
entered our own warring states period of
civil war.
A war without end that only produces
blood feuds. The Capulets and the Montagues. The Hatfields and the McCoys. Vile
venal wars of vanity that poison everyone
around them.
No one can force anyone else to open their
hearts. No one can force another to believe.
It all starts with a leap of faith. I would ask
that you think before you judge. That you
listen before you speak. That you try to find
the common ground before staking your
claim. You can either manage yourself or
the world will manage you.
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MY ANGLE ON CUBA
By Letitia Grimes
Photos by Myrna Cambianica
Two of the photos in Myrna Cambianica’s exhibit at the
Coffee Connection: “At the Tropicana” and “Havana, 6 a.m.”
Offering intimate glimpses of Cuba at the turn of the millennium,
a new photography exhibit at Coffee Connection in Meiners Oaks is
on the menu along with the espresso and cappuccino. The images in
“My Angle on Cuba” are all from photographer Myrna Cambianica’s
2001 Ventura College trip to Cuba conducted by photography
professor and mentor Bill Hendricks.
Reflecting her profound reaction to the Cuban experience,
most of the images are tilted to an oblique angle. “Cuba turned my
perpendicular life askew with its vibrancy and wealth of spirit,”
Cambianica explains in her artist statement. “So much to capture: the
beautiful people, the sadness under smiles, the ice cream colors of
faded walls, the coming and going of ordinary lives — a country and
people to be recorded with a twist, not straight on.”
Cambianica discovered a passion for photography in 1998 upon
retiring from her career as a successful restaurateur. She has been
education chair for the Ojai Photography Club for the past 16 years,
identifying judges and presenters for the monthly meetings, as
well as mentoring new photographers in the club. Her images have
won numerous awards and eight will be installed permanently at
Ventura Community Memorial Hospital.
“My Angle on Cuba” will be on view through October 31. The
Coffee Connection, serving organically grown fair trade coffee, is
located at 311 East El Roblar in Meiners Oaks, open 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Monday through Friday, and 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
OM - October / 2016
15
FEATURED EVENT
2016
TASTE OF OJAI
By Sarah Howery Hart
“Rotary is a totally service-oriented organization,” says
Rotary Club of Ojai member Janet Mahon Campbell. “The
whole mission is to serve, locally, internationally, globally.”
She adds that the organization’s annual mottos have included “Service Above Self” and “Rotary Serving Humanity.” Both
are the goal of the group’s upcoming primary fundraising
event, “A Taste of Ojai,” which Campbell co-chairs, scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 23, from 2 to 5 p.m., on the Ojai Valley
Inn & Spa’s 10th fairway.
According to event treasurer Donald Reed, proceeds assist
a growing number of Ojai students and non-profit agencies. “The Educational Foundation provides about $70,000
annually for students going to college or technical schools,”
he says, “with another $10,000 for local community groups.”
With another $15,000 or so from the club itself, Rotary Club
of Ojai donates about $25,000 to around 20 different groups.
“Help of Ojai received funding,” he says, “and the Nan Tolbert Nurturing Center, the Ojai Valley Museum, and the Ojai
Unified School District.” Others include Ojai Cares, and the
Ojai Film Society and Ojai Music Festival. “We try to provide
as much funding as we can, and we appreciate the support
we receive from the different businesses for Taste of Ojai.”
It might be said that Taste of Ojai is a delicious way to
raise money for these groups, a win-win situation for all involved. “This is an all-inclusive event,” Campbell explains.
“You get everything you need for the day, food, beverages
and even entertainment.” This event, the 16th annual, provides attendees with a selection of culinary offerings from
more than 20 restaurants, wineries, caterers and other culinary specialists. “First timers include Mandala Restaurant in
Mira Monte,” Campbell says. “They’ve been very supportive
of Rotary, and they feature East Indian, Japanese, and Tibetan food.” Other new establishments represented include
Topa Mountain Winery and Majestic Oak Vineyard.
Co-chair Mike Malone (also a major sponsor with Edward
Jones Investment) says there will be no shortage of food and
beverages. Vendors include Ojai Valley Inn’s Olivella and
Vine, Boccali’s, the Deer Lodge, No So Vita social cafe, and
Jim & Rob’s Fresh Grill. Caterer Ellen Sherwood, owner of La
Piu Bella Tavola (The Beautiful Table) will also be in attendance, and, of course, there will be dessert, including from
Ojai Ice Cream and Thacher Road Cookies.
Beverage vendors include Casa Barranca, Majestic Oak,
Sanger Family Wines, Madewest Brewery, Topa Topa Brewery, and Topa Mountain Winery.
In addition to fine cuisine and beverages, the Taste of Ojai
experience includes entertainment. Campbell said “We have
a great blues band, Crooked Eye Tommy. They get everyone
up and dancing. We’ve never really had a blues band before,
so we thought it would be nice to have something new.” The
band’s songs have scored high on the National Roots Music
Report Contemporary Blues Chart.
Another fun feature at this Rotary Club of Ojai fundraiser is the silent auction. “This is the third year for the silent
auction, and it’s been successful,” Campbell says. “We have
gift certificates from each vendor.” Other items include gift
baskets, pottery, organic baby clothing, a two-night stay at
several local inns, and Disneyland passes
Tickets are available online at tasteofojai.com/purchase,
in person at the Attitude Adjustment Shoppe, or at the event.
General admission is $75 in advance; $85 at the gate; and
$250 for Sponsor Admission, which includes a pass into
the sponsor tent hosted by the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa, with
exclusive cuisine and beverage tasting; entrance to the rest
of the events; and early entry beginning at 1:30 p.m. “Partnership with Ojai Valley Inn has been phenomenal in their
support of Rotary,” Campbell says. “We have in the past
been sold out, so I encourage people to get their tickets early,
before the event.”
(Taste of Ojai, tasteofojai@gmail.com)
2016 VENDORS
Agave Marias
Bella Aroma
Boccali’s Restaurant
Bonnie Lu’s,
Casa Barranca
Deer Lodge
Dottie’s Sweet Delights
East End Restaurant
Gables of Ojai
JJ’s Sports Zone
Jim & Rob’s Fresh Grill
La Piu Bella Tavola
Majestic Oak Vineyard
Lori’s Original Lemonade
Madewest Brewery
Mandala Restaurant
Majestic Oak
Noso Vita social cafe
Olivella and Vine Restaurant
Ojai Beverage Company
Ojai Ice Cream
Ojai Valley Community Hospital
Q Time Ojai Barbeque
Ranch House Restaurant
Sanger Family of Wines
Thacher Road Cookies
Topa Mountain Winery
Topa Topa Brewery
Ventura Surf Brewery
Taste of Ojai takes over the 10th fairway at the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa and
turns it into Ojai’s favorite garden party, raising money for deserving local
students and nonprofit groups.
Vine Restaurant
eckert
D
eckert
D
DePaola
ePaola
D
805.272.5221
FOR SALE - 12576 MacDonald Drive—Ojai
6 bedroom/5 bathroom, 5,021 sq. ft. home on 2 acres
A private oasis awaits you with this warm, inviting Cape Cod style home. Situated on 2 gorgeous acres in a gated community, it features 5,021 sq. ft. of living
space, with 6 bedrooms and 3 full baths, one 3/4 bath, and one 1/2 bath. There are countless amenities that make this a true family home, including a large
pool, an outdoor kitchen/entertainment area, a formal dining room, a beautiful kitchen with breakfast bar, and a huge family room with soaring 20-foot ceilings
that welcomes laughter and fun. There are also 4 fireplaces, and a smartly arranged “man cave” just off the large garage. Step outside, and you’ll be taken
aback by the mountain views, stunning front porch sunsets, attractive (and private) landscaping with plenty of trees, as well as direct access to horse trails. For
the sports minded, there’s your own tennis court, and a sand trap with a spacious putting green. There’s room for an RV or boat too. This home was clearly
loved, and is ready for its new owners. Is that you? $1,849,000
FOR SALE - 67 W. Calle El Prado - Oak View
FOR SALE - 10808 Creek Road - Ojai
3 bedroom/2 bathroom - 1,732 sq. ft. on .45 acres
4 bedroom/2 bathroom, 1,585 sq. ft. home with mountain views
Custom built Craftsman-style home with Ranch-style influences. Oversized
greatroom, vaulted ceilings, gorgeous side terrace, huge back yard, easy
access to Ojai or Ventura. $689,000
A comfortable home located within the Ojai School District is what you’ll find
in this warm one-story contemporary. Numerous upgrades include newer
windows and an upgraded kitchen and bathrooms. $569,000
Cheryl & Ray Deckert, Broker Associates ~ Maria DePaola, Realtor Associate
www.BestBuysInOjai.com
~
Phone: 805.272.5221 ~ Email: Team@DeckertDePaola.com
BRE #01761150, 00780642, 01877842
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
OCTOBER
“Renewed Inspiration: Jeffrey Crussell
and Pamela Grau”
Date: Continuing to October 6
Time: Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m.,
Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, 9:30 a.m.
to 1 p.m. and by appointment
Location: Porch Gallery,
310 East Matilija Street
Contact: 620-7589
porchgalleryojai.com
Carmen Abelleria: “Welcome to the
Jumble”
Date: Continuing to October 9
Time: Thursday to Sunday, 2 to 6 p.m., or by
appointment
Location: Gallery 525,
525 West El Roblar Drive, Contact: 701-1156
gallery525.com
Ojai Studio Artists Exhibit
Date: Continuing until October 27
Time: noon to 4 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday
Location: Ojai Art Center,
113 South Montgomery Street
Contact: 646-0117
ojaiartcenter.org
“Death, Our Last Illusion”
Date: October 7
Time: 7 to 8:30 a.m.
Location: Meditation Mount,
10340 Reeves Road
Contact: 646-5508 ext.103
meditationmount.org
Ojai Studio Artists Tour
Date: October 7 to 10
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
REOCCURING EVENTS
EVENTS
REOCCURING
CertifiedFarmer’s
Farmer’sMarket
Market
Certified
Date:Every
EverySunday
Sunday
Date:
Time:99a.m.
a.m.to
to11p.m.
p.m.
Time:
Contact:698-5555
698-5555
Contact:
Location:Matilija
MatilijaStreet
Streetcity
cityparking
parkinglot
lot
Location:
behindthe
theArcade.
Arcade.
behind
Openair
airmarket
marketfeaturing
featuringlocally
locally
Open
grownproduce,
produce,plants,
plants,musicians
musiciansand
and
grown
handmadeitems,
items,including
includingsoaps,
soaps,basbashandmade
kets,beeswax
beeswaxcandles
candlesand
andolive
oliveoil.
oil.
kets,
20
Location: self-guided tour starts at Ojai Art
Center, 113 South Montgomery Street
Contact: 646-9892
ojaistudioartists.org
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Matilija Auditorium,
703 El Paseo Road
Contact: 646-8946, ojaifilmsociety.org
“One Winter Story”
Date: October 8
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Ojai Valley Grange,
381 Cruzero Street
Contact: 272-8453
otwfront.net
Cassandra C. Jones — “Jpeg Mountain”
Date: October 12
Time: Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m.,
Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, 9:30 a.m.
to 1 p.m. and by appointment
Location: Porch Gallery,
310 East Matilija Street
Contact: 620-7589
porchgalleryojai.com
Bruce Hornsby in Concert
Date: October 8
Time: 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Location: Libbey Bowl
Contact: 646-5581x103
libbeybowl.org
Art Detour
Date: October 8 and 9
Time: Thursday to Sunday, 2 to 6 p.m., or by
appointment
Location: Gallery 525,
525 West El Roblar Drive
Contact: 701-1156
gallery525.com
Ojai Chautauqua on Politics : “What
Comes Next?”
Date: October 8
Time: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Location: Matilija Auditorium,
703 El Paseo Road
Contact: 231-5974
ojaichautauqua.org
“The Kind Words”
Date: October 9
HistoricalWalking
WalkingTours
Toursof
ofOjai
Ojai
Historical
Date:Saturdays
Every Tuesday through Sunday
Date:
Time:10:30
Pleasea.m.
call the Museum office to
Time:
schedule Departs from the Ojai Valley
Location:
Location:130
Departs
the Ojai Valley
Museum,
Westfrom
Ojai Avenue
Museum,640-1390
130 West Ojai Avenue
Contact:
Contact: 640-1390
ojaivalleymuseum.org
ojaivalleymuseum.org
“Eating Ojai” Food Tour
“Eating
Food Tour
Date:
CallOjai”
to schedule
Date: Call
schedule
Time:
10:30toa.m.
to 1:30 p.m.
Time: 10:30
a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Location:
Varies
OM - October / 2016
“Zero Hour”
Date: October 14 to 23
Time: 7 p.m. 14, 15, 21; 5 p.m. 16; 2 p.m. 22
and 23
Location: Ojai Art Center,
113 South Montgomery Street
Contact: 640-8797
ojaiact.org
Ojai Day
Date: October 15
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: downtown OJai
Contact: 646-5581x103
ojaiday.com
“Art Town”
Date: October 15 to November 27
Time: Tuesday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,
Sunday noon to 4 p.m.,
Reception, October 15, 7 to 9 p.m.
Location: Ojai Valley Museum,
130 West Ojai Avenue
Contact: 640-1390
ojaivalleymuseum.org
Location:295-8687
Varies
Contact:
Contact: 295-8687
venturafoodtours.com
venturafoodtours.com
Morning, Guided and Full Moon
Morning, Guided and Full Moon
Meditations
Meditations
Date:
Wednesday through Sunday
Date: Guided
Wednesday
through
Time:
8:30 a.m.
to 9 Sunday
a.m., walkTime:
a.m.Libra
to 9 Full
a.m.,Moon
walking
9:30Guided
a.m. to 8:30
10 a.m.
ing 9:30
to Oct.
10 a.m.
begins
ata.m.
7 p.m.
15. Full Moon begins
at 7 p.m. Meditation
on November
24 10340
Location:
Mount,
Location:
Meditation Mount, 10340
Reeves
Road
Reeves Road
Contact:
646-5508 ext.103
“Skin Deep: Ceramics from LaBorne,
France”
Date: October 15 to November 27
Time: Friday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts,
8585 Ojai-Santa Paula Road
Contact: 646-3381
beatricewood.com
Chamber Music Concert : Pianist Egle
Januleviciute
Date: October 16
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: Ojai Art Center,
113 South Montgomery Street
Contact: (805) 640-8327
ojaiartcenter.org
“Three Lustrous Women” — Sooz
Glazebrook, Myra Toth & Isabella
Kocum” Date: October 20 to November 26
Time: Thursday to Sunday, 2 to 6 p.m., or by
appointment
Location: Gallery 525,
525 West El Roblar Drive
Contact: 701-1156
gallery525.com
“Don Felder in Concert”
Date: October 22
Time: 6:45 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Libbey Bowl
Contact: 646-5581 x103
libbeybowl.org
“Last Cab to Darwin”
Date: October 16
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Matilija Auditorium,
703 El Paseo Road
Contact: 646-8946
ojaifilmsociety.org
“Song of Lahore”
Date: October 22
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Ojai Art Center,
113 South Montgomery Street
Contact: 646-8946
ojaifilmsociety.org
Christopher Broughten “Practicing
Seeing”
Date: October 18
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Kent Hall, HELP of Ojai,
Santa Ana Street
Contact: 646-8405
ojaiphotoclub.com
“Fall Medicinal Plant Weekend Herb
Walk”
Date: October 22-23
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m,
Location: Carpool meets at Maricopa Plaza
Contact: 797-2072
herbwalks.com
OSA Workshop: “Bookbinding with
Gail Hercher”
Date: October 19
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Location: Ojai Valley Museum,
130 West Ojai Avenue
Contact: 640-1390
ojaivalleymuseum.org
“Taste of Ojai”
Date: October 23
Time: 2 to 5 p.m.
Location: Ojai Valley Inn & Spa, 10th green
Contact: info@tasteofojai.com
tasteofojai.com
Contact: 646-5508 ext.103
meditationmount.org
meditationmount.org
Improv at OYES
Improv
at OYES
Date:
Every
Sunday and Monday
Date: Every
Sundayon
and
Monday
Time:
Teen Improv
Sundays
at 6 p.m.
Time: Improv
Teen Improv
on Sundays
atp.m.
6 p.m.
Adult
on Mondays
at 7:15
Adult Improv
Mondays
at 7:15Avenue,
p.m.
Location:
OYES,on
316
East Matilija
Location:646-4300
OYES, 316 East Matilija Avenue,
Contact:
Contact: 646-4300
ojaiyes.org/adult-improv-ensemble
ojaiyes.org/adult-improv-ensemble
“Sing Street”
Date: October 23
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Ojai Art Center Theater,
113 South Montgomery Street
Contact: 646-8946
ojaifilmsociety.org
Staged Reading of “Marjorie Prime”
Date: October 27
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Ojai Art Center,
113 South Montgomery Street
Contact: 646-0117
ojaiartcenter.org
“Art by Robertson”
Date: October 28 to November 30
Time: Date: September 2 to 29
Time: noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday
Location: Ojai Art Center,
113 South Montgomery Street
Contact: 646-0117
ojaiartcenter.org
“Rocky Horror Picture Show”
Date: October 29
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Libbey Bowl
Contact: 646-8946
ojaifilmsociety.org
NOVEMBER
“17th Ojai Film Festival”
Date: November 3 to 13
Time: Varies
Location: Libbey Bowl; Ojai Art Center,
113 South Montgomery Street; Ojai Valley
Woman’s Club, 441 East Ojai Avenue;
Chaparral Auditorium, 414 East Ojai
Avenue
Contact: 640-1947
ojaifilmfestival.com
MeditationMount
Mount
Meditation
hostsFull
FullMoon
MoonMedMedhosts
itations.Check
Checktheir
their
itations.
websiteat
atmeditationmeditationwebsite
mount.orgor
orcall
call646646mount.org
5508for
formore
moreupdates.
updates.
5508
OM - October / 2016
21
Keep Whipple on Board!
Hone Your Skills • Develop Your Craft
THRIVE as a Writer
The 6th Annual 805 Writers’ Conference delivers the
skills and knowledge writers need to succeed.
Perfect for novel, memoir, poetry, and article writers.
Learn the Business & Craft of Writing
DURING MY FIRST FULL TERM, WE ...
Full weekend of sessions lead by industry pros.
Ask the Experts - lunchtime table topics with speakers.
Began Live TV broadcasts of board meetings.
Held the first joint meeting with the Ojai City Council.
Sold bonds to repair and maintain our schools. Engaged
the community in planning and allocation of resources.
Gave teachers the first raise in over a decade.
Meet an Editor - FREE private meetings with book editors.
VOTE THAYNE WHIPPLE TO
OJAI UNIFIED SCHOOL
DISTRICT BOARD
www.805WritersConference.com
Visit Facebook: Thayne Whipple for Ojai School Board
PLUS: Half-day workshops to help master skills
in fiction, memoir, poetry and article writing.
Buy a session, a full day
or a weekend pass.
Produced by the Pacific Institute for Professional Writing
and sponsored by 9 area writing organizations.
IT’S A GUARANTEED PARTY!
ROCKY HORROR
PICTURE SHOW
Benefits Athletics
And scholArships
For more information please call the development office at
(805) 646-1464 x126 or email thottinger@villanovaprep.org
Registration: 9 am • Tee Time: 12 pm • Festive Feast: 4:30 pm
Every golfer receives a goody bag,
lunch, and dinner (feast!)
22
OM - October / 2016
Audience
Participation
Expected!
Saturday, Oct. 29th
Libbey Bowl Event!
Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Festivities until 7 p.m. screening
Stay current at OjaiFilmSociety.org
SIGN UP
TODAY;
PROGR AM
31!
ENDS OCT
elp.
r. We can h
sola
You can go
Brought to you
by the Community
Environmental Council
and the Ojai Valley
Green Coalition.
rs.
cal installe
lo
d
e
tt
e
V

.
ted pricing
 Discoun
ling.
 No hagg
stalls.
 Quality In
r
endent sola
 An indep
to answer
consultant
ons.
your questi
ATTEND A
FREE WORKSHOP
AND START SAVING MONEY:
Wednesday, October 12, 6 - 7:30pm
Chaparral Auditorium, 414 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai
SolarizeOjai.org (805)963-0583 x101
OM - October / 2016
23
IN
OW
CR
ES
Wheeler Hot Springs | 85 Acres | $3,995,000 | www.16825MaricopaHwy.com
LD
SO
Custom Home | water works & ponds
www.16084maricopahwy.com
A Mediterranean 4BR | 3.5 BA | Casita
www.1466SLaLuna.com
41 Acres | Rancho Matilija | From $1,500,000
www.ranchomatilija41acres.com
Private East End Victorian w.Views
www.1450grandave.com
Charming Victorian |3BD | nr. Town
www.421LosAlamosDr.com
LD
SO
LD
SO
Five Acres | Charming One Bedroom
3000 SF Storage shed $895,000
Larry Wilde began his real estate career in Ojai in 1975 and by 1978 together with his partner Dennis Guernsey
had formed the local Coldwell banker Property Shoppe. today it is the premier brokerage in the Ojai Valley.
Saddle Mountain Wooded - Hilltop | 4 bds/3ba | 4700+ SF | $1,395,000 www.10725EncinoDr.com
Ojai Downtown Decorator Condo
www.209southmontgomeryst.com
12196 Linda Flora | Rancho Matilija
4 BD 3 BA | Beautiful 2.75 Acres | $1,495,000
4.8 Acres +/- 2 Large Separate Structures
www.907ElCentro.com
East End | Thacher Road
Impeccable Villa | $1,495,000
4BR | 3BA | 3428 sq ft |1 acre
OJAI Farm Home
www.817DelOro.com
3+ Acre Hideaway | 4bds |3 ba|Horses
$1,895,000 | www.1368farnham.com
727 W. Ojai Ave. - Ojai - CA 93023 - Larry - 805.640.5734 - Erik - 805.830.3254
www.wilde-wilde.cm - lwilde@west.net - erikw@west.net
Larry Wilde DRE:#15216270 - Erik Wile DRT:#01461074
Donna
Sallen
RE/MAX Gold Coast Realtors
It does not get much better than this
fabulous property on over an acre and a half
805-798-0516
Sitting perfectly on an acre, this 4 bedroom,
2 bath home is nestled on a private lane
This nice sized, family home has a great room, Tucked away down a private and gated drive,
a cozy kitchen, a dining room
hidden behind a grove of orange trees
Welcome home to this newly built hillside home
in Santa Paula with all the finishing touches
Enter through the gate to a private, quaint
courtyard which leads you to the front door
Downtown Ojai Charmer, this great
downtown home sits on an oversized lot
Located in the Village of Ojai, this 1938
bungalow oozes with charm
Located on the prestigious East End of Ojai, this
family home was built by the current owners
There’s no place like home ...
Let me find yours.
It does not get much better than this fabulous property on over an acre and a half
Beautiful La Amistad downtown home is just waiting for you
Donna Sallen
805-798-0516
www.donnasallen.com
BLUE IGUANA INN & SUITES
Spanish-style inn offering rooms,
suites & cottages with Southwest
décor. Easy access to the Ojai Valley
Trail.
11794 Ventura Ave | (805) 646-5277
blueiguanainn.com
CAPRI MOTEL
Hip, quirky option with retro rooms
and cool pool scene.
Free Wi-Fi and breakfast
1180 East Ojai Ave | (805) 646-4305
hotelojai.com
CARAVAN OUTPOST
A beautifully curated garden of
Airstreams, located in the heart of
Ojai. Free wi-fi, nightly entertainment, dog friendly, complimentary
bicycles, camp store.
Instagram: @caravanoutpost
Web: caravanoutpost.com
317 Bryant Street I (805) 836-4891.
CASA OJAI INN
Budget hotel with saltwater pool,
near Ojai’s fabled East End.
Free Wi-Fi & breakfast
1302 East Ojai Ave | (805) 646-8175
ojaiinn.com
CHANTICO INN & SUITES
Relaxed, cozy rooms in a Mission-style hotel offering free breakfast & WiFi, plus
an outdoor pool.
406 West Ojai Ave | (805) 646-8100
chanticoinnsuites.com
28
EMERALD IGUANA INN
Upscale inn with lush gardens, pool,
hot tub, spa services, breakfast, &
rooms with local artwork.
108 Pauline St | (805) 646-5277
emeraldiguana.com
HUMMINGBIRD INN
Lodge-like inn offering modern,
casual rooms, plus free wi-fi breakfast, & an outdoor pool. Across the
street from Soule Park Golf Course.
1208 East Ojai Ave | (805) 646-4365
hummingbirdinnojai.com
LAVENDER INN
Quaint bed-and-breakfast in an
1874 building featuring country-style rooms, plus a spa, yoga
& cooking classes. In the heart of
downtown Ojai.
210 East Matilja St | (805) 646-6635
lavenderinn.com
THE OAKS AT OJAI
Serene weight-loss retreat offering 3
meals daily, plus a wellness spa &
free fitness classes.
122 East Ojai Ave | (805) 646-5573
oaksspa.com
OJAI RANCHO INN
Borders Ojai Valley Trail, easy stroll
to downtown. Hip, rustic-style inn
offering country-chic rooms, plus free
Wi-fi, a pool & a sauna.
615 West Ojai Ave | (805) 646-1434
ojairanchoinn.com
OM - October / 2016
OJAI VALLEY INN & SPA
Upscale Spanish-style hacienda with
contemporary rooms & a spa, pool,
golf & several restaurants. One of
California’s premier destinations.
905 Country Club Road | (855) 6978780 ojairesort.com
OAKRIDGE INN
Functional budget hotel
offering an outdoor pool,
plus complimentary continental
breakfast & WiFi.
780 North Ventura Ave | (805) 6494018 oakridgeinn.com
OJAI RETREAT
Serene, hilltop bed-and-breakfast
offering traditional rooms, some
with terraces, plus a buffet breakfast
& yoga.
160 Besant Road | (805) 646-2536
ojairetreat.com
PEPPER TREE RETREAT &
EDUCATION CENTER
An oasis for the mind in a peaceful
setting where individuals, couples
and small groups can relax and
enjoy the beauty of the valley.
1130 McAndrew Road
(877) 355-5986
peppertreeretreat.com
SU NIDO INN
Artfully designed, Mission-style inn
with traditional rooms, with stunning
courtyard, an easy walk to downtown. Free Wi-Fi
301 North Montgomery Street
(805) 646-7080 sunidoinn.com
www.severolaraformayor.com
“Paid for by Severo Lara”
Pepper Tree Retreat
& Krishnamurti Educational Center
The Pepper Tree Retreat & Krishnamurti Educational
Center offer a beautiful, serene setting for weekend
workshops, study intensives & personal retreats. See
our events calendar at kfa.org/events-calendar for
more information.
peppertreeretreat.org | 805.646.4773 | 1130 McAndrew, Ojai
OM - October / 2016
29
WHO’S WHO
IN OJAI REAL ESTATE?
Tyler
Brousseau
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
805-760-2213
ojaiforsale.com
Stacy
Cadenasso
Keller Williams
Realty
805-217-2676
ccOjai.com
Kristen
Currier
Coldwell Banker Property
Shoppe
805-798-3757
thehoffgroup.
com
Cheryl & Ray
Deckert
The Deckert/DePaola Team
Keller Williams
Realty
Email: Team@
DeckertDePaola.
com
805-272-5221
Ross
Falvo
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
“Your Dream ...
My Job”
www.RossFalvo.
com
805-207-5094
Dennis
Guernsey
Coldwell Banker Property
Shoppe
www.OjaiColdwellBanker.com
805-798-1998
Logan
Hall
Logan Hall
Photography
805-798-0337
www.loganhallphotos.com
Dale
Hanson
Ojai Valley
Real Estate
211 E. Matilija
Street, Ste. J,
206 E. Ojai
Ave.
805-646-7229
dale@ovhl.com
Vivienne
Moody
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
805-798-1099
vmoody10@
sbcglobal.net
http://www.
ojairealestatecenter.com
Maria
DePaola
The Deckert/
DePaola Team
Keller Williams
Realty
Team@DeckertDePaola.com
805-689-9164
Patricia
Ahrens
Remax Gold
Coast
www.attyahrens.
Remax.net
Yourbestrealtor
805@outlookcom
805-407-8585
Teresa
Rooney
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
teresarooneyhomes@
sbcglobal.net
805-340-8928
Erik
Wilde
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
www.Wilde-Wilde.com
805-830-3254
Larry
Wilde
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
www.Wilde-Wilde.com
805-640-5734
Anne
Williamson
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
Anneshomesinojai.com
805-320-3314
Riki
Strandfeldt
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
(805) 794-6474
New listings
everyday:
Riki4RealEstate.
com
(no sign-in!)
IS YOUR PHOTO MISSING?
FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN BE IN
“WHO’S WHO” IN JULY
CALL 805-207-5094
30
OM - October / 2016
WHEN
DUTY
CALLS
Nora
Davis
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
www.OjaiValleyEstates.com
805-207-6177
Kirk
Ellison
Coldwell Banker Property
Shoppe
KirkEllison@
me.com
805-340-5905
Kathy
Hoff
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
(805) 290-6907
thehoffgroup.
com
Marsha
Kaye
Home Mortgage
Consultant
Phone: 805640-0654
Cell: 949-2339988
marsha.kaye@
prospectmtg.
com
Donna
Sallen
Remax Gold
Coast Realtors
Donna4Remax@aol.com
DonnaSallen.
com
805-798-0516
Kelly Wiggins
Troop Real
Estate - Ojai
Century
21-Troop Real
Estate
(805) 535-8000
kwiggins@
troop.com
www.ListingsByKelly.com
Patty
Waltcher
Coldwell
Banker Property
Shoppe
Call me for
your Real Estate
needs.
805-340-3774
Dawn E. Shook - Executive Officer, Ojai
Valley Board of REALTORS
I am sitting in the Ventura County Jury Assembly Room on a Tuesday morning at 8 a.m., to
complete my jury duty. The room is packed, standing-room-only, which seems a bit out-of-kilter.
What are we all doing there on one day?
I have been to jury duty previously, however, I
have never been called out of the Assembly Room.
As explained by our Deputy Jury Commissioner,
there are 85 cases to address today! This seems
excessive, and how will we accomplish this task?
After general roll call, names are alphabetically
presented, and all who are on the 1st list, file out of
the room to a specific Jury Room number.
We wait in our Assembly Room for the next
list to be called. Not yet! My name came up in the
3rd call. Off to Jury Room 46, with 60+ people also
going my way. As we all file into the room, we are
greeted by a deputy, two lawyers, a court reporter,
the person of interest, and the Judge. He explains
we are needed to be on a three-week trial, into
October.
People who can, and will be available for that
time frame, leave the room. The rest of us explain
to the judge why we cannot be there for three
weeks. I was the last of the 40 people who told
their “story” to the Judge. After listening to our
“stories,” he excused 38 of us, and returned us to
the Assembly Room.
Jury Duty is an all-day affair! Many more
people in the Assembly Room were on the 4th call,
and also onto Jury Room #46. The whole procedure is amazing — how cases go through the jury
process, and how many cases are resolved before
a jury is needed. At 2:30 p.m., our caseload was
reduced to 11, and then to 0 at 4 p.m. Our Deputy
Jury Commissioner told us she was ready for the
next day as 85 more cases are to be heard, tried, or
resolved.
This was truly an eye opener for me, as I had
not experienced the whole process previously, and
now have completed my Jury Duty for this year!
OM - October / 2016
31
AGAVE MARIA
Fresh, wholesome Mexican food & drink
106 South Montgomery Street
(805) 646-6353
agavemarias.com
AJ’s CHINESE EXPRESS
Gourmet Chinese food
to eat in or to go
11566 North Ventura Avenue
(805) 646-1177
ajchinesecuisine.com
AZU
Spanish & Mediterranean comfort food
457 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 640-7987
azuojai.com
BOCCALI’S
Pizza & Pasta, from our farm to our tables
3277 Ojai-Santa Paula Road
(805) 646-6116
boccalis.com
BONNIE LU’S COUNTRY CAFE
Traditional American breakfast & brunch
328 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 646-0207
CAFE EMPORIUM
Locals’ favorite breakfast and lunch
108 South Montgomery Street
(805) 646-2723
ojaicafeemporium.com
DOMINO’S PIZZA
Delivery & carryout with wide range of
pizzas, wings, etc.
11420 North Ventura Avenue
(805) 640-0080
pizza.dominos.com/california/ojai
DON LALO’S MEXICAN FOOD
Authentic Mexican food in Meiners Oaks
585 El Roblar Drive
(805) 640-3736
JJ’S SPORTS ZONE
The go-to place for food & sports
820 North Ventura Avenue
(805) 649-4655
jjssportszone.com
EAST END RESTAURANT & BAR
Local ingredients, at-home ambience
914 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 272-8935
eastendrestaurantandbar.com
KNEAD BAKING COMPANY
An artisanal family bakery
469 East Ojai Avenue
(310) 770-3282
kneadbakingcompany.com
EL CHARRO
Oak View’s Mexican Specialities
595 North Ventura Avenue, Oak View
(805) 649-8894
LA FUENTE
Latin-American restaurant
423 East Ojai Ave
107 East El Roblar Drive
(805) 646-7715
EXOTIC THAI
Authentic Thai Food
849 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 646-6618
exoticthairestaurants.com
FARMER & THE COOK
The best of organic Ojai
339 West El Roblar Drive
(805) 640-9608
farmerandcook.com
CASA DEL LAGO
Ojai’s original Mexican
restaurant
715 E Ojai Avenue
(805) 640-1577
HIHO!
Cheeseburgers, Shakes, Fries and
Sometimes Pie
401 East Ojai Avenue
805-640-4446
hihoburger.com
THE DEER LODGE
An Ojai legend since 1932
2261 Maricopa Highway
(805) 646-4256
deerlodgeojai.com
HIP VEGAN CAFÉ
Inventive, organic, delicious
928 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 646-1750
hipvegancafe.com
32
JIM & ROB’S FRESH GRILL
Mexican-American & regional favorites
214 West Ojai Avenue #100
(805) 640-1301
jimandrobsojai.com
OM - October / 2016
MANDALA
11400 North Ventura Road
(805) 613-3048
MARCHE GOURMET
An European deli in Ojai
133 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 646-1133
marchegourmetojai.com
MARINA CAFÉ AT LAKE CASITAS
Mexican-American food amid stunning
scenery
1131 Santa Ana Road
(805) 649-2514
casitaswater.org/marina-café
NOCCIOLA
Italian food in historic building
314 El Paseo Road
(805) 640-1648
nocciolaojai.com
Dining on the East End
Thursdays: Half off 2 steak dinners with the
purchase of a bottle of wine. Friday: Fish and Chips
NO SO VITA
Ojai’s social cafe
205 North Signal Street
(805) 646-1540
nosovita.com
RAINBOW BRIDGE
A community gathering place
211 East Matilija Street
(805) 646-6623
rainbowbridgeojai.com
OAK GRILL @ THE INN
Al fresco dining under
vine-covered pergola
905 Country Club Road
(805) 646-1111
ojairesort.com
THE RANCH HOUSE
An Ojai culinary destination
for more than 60 years
102 Besant Road
(805) 646-2360
theranchhouse.com
OJAI BEVERAGE COMPANY
Gourmet pub fare
655 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 646-1700
ojaibevco.com
SAKURA OJAI
A locals’ favorite for
Japanese food
219 East Matilija Street
(805) 646-8777
sakuraojai.wix.com
OJAI COFFEE ROASTING
COMPANY
Salads, sandwiches & superb
service
337 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 646-4478
OM FUSION
Traditional tastes of Thailand
710 Ventura Blvd, Oak View
(805) 649-9001
omthaifood.com
OSTERIA
MONTE GRAPPA
Local fare, Northern Italian
cuisine
242 East Ojai Avenue / (805)
640-6767
omgojai.com
PAPA LENNON’S
Family owned, original &
ditional Italian cuisine
515 West El Roblar Drive
(805) 640-7388
papalennons.com
tra-
Brunch 11 - 3
(Sat & Sun)
Lunch 11 - 5
(Sat & Sun)
Dinner 5 - 9
closed Mondays
805-272-8935
914 E. Ojai Avenue
EastEndRestaurantAndBar.com
SEA FRESH
Serving Ojai for 30 years
533 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 646-7747
seafreshseafood.com
SOULE PARK GOLF COURSE
BAR & GRILL
Patio & indoor dining with
Ojai’s most tranquil views
1033 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 646-5685
soulepark.com
SUZANNE’S CUISINE
Fining dining with freshness
foremost
502 West Ojai Avenue
(805) 640-1961
suzannescuisine.com
TIPPLE & RAMBLE
Weekend wine, cheese and
beer patio
315 North Montgomery Street
(805) 319-9496
OM - October / 2016
33
Dennis Guernsey
805-798-1998
Broker/Owner, State Licensed
Appraiser, General Contractor
Coldwell Banker
ProPerty ShoPPe
Ojai homes, Ojai ranches, Ojai commercial real estate. Experienced and knowledgeable Realtors serving the Ojai Valley for over 30 years.
Ojai’s Best Land Buy
2,766 +/- sq ft home on 0.97 Acres
PLUS +.97 adjoining buildable parcel,
3 Bedroom Main House with Attached
1 Bd Guest Suite, Sun Decks & Patios,
Ideal for Entertaining, Lavender Fields
& Drought Resistant Landscaping.
Offered at $2,995,000
Incredible flat 20-acre parcel
in heart of Upper Ojai.
Located in rear of 11999
Ojai S.P. Rd and part of the
renown Hall Ranch. Will
have 1/2 interest in well
from adjoining parcel to
the South. Great mountain
Views---all usable---Perfect
for planting, horses or
private estate.
Buyer to verify utilities.
$995,000
The Hills of Carpenteria
Commercial property, with TWO VENUES
10-Acre Country Estate
The 4,125 sq. ft. main home features 4 bedrooms,
4 baths, 2 fireplaces, wood-burning stove, large loft
for an office or game room. $2,500.000
Located in an ideal location in the center of Ojai. On/
off st. pkg. Front cottage has full kitchen & bthrm.
w/shwr. Rear 1,018 SF permitted geodesic dome w/
sound system, alarm, heat and air & bamboo flooring
t/o. Ready for musical events, yoga, theatre, weddings,
seminars. $795,000 Call Jaime Roth 640-9798
Dennis Guernsey, Cell: 805-798-1998 • Office: 805 646-7288
Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe Ojai 727 W Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023 • dennisguernsey.com • www.ojaicoldwell.com
34
OM - October / 2016
Rotary Club of Ojai’s 16th Annual
Taste of Ojai
Sunday, October 23
2 to 5 P.m.
at the ojai Valley inn & sPa
tiCkets & inFo at tasteoFojai.Com
$75 each
$250 SponSor
Ventura County’s Premier Culinary eVent!
more than 25 loCal Vendors!
liVe musiC, danCing, silent auCtion,
Food, Wine & Fun!
PARTY PLEASERS
OjAi VALLEY FAmiLY mEdicinE GROuP
OjAiEYES OPTOmETRY
mEdicinE ShOPPE
tasteofojai.com • info@tasteofojai.com • 805-798-2515 oR 640-0426
Dale Hanson
805-646-7229
Heather Erickson
805-798-3358
Glenn Kuhr
805 760-0366
Carol Blanton
805-798-2246
This property is a unique opportunity to own a commercial
mixed use property in Oak View. The back of the property at
280 Bundren is a 2-bedroom, 2-bath 892 s/f residence with a
swim spa and lovely outdoor rock fireplace. ​$535,000
Glenn Kuhr: 805 760-0366
Breathtaking sunsets and panoramic Mountain views
from this tranquil property. Located on a cul-de-sac
in the subdivision of Country Terrace. Inviting living
room with rock fireplace. $599,000
Heather Erickson 805-798-3358
Very spacious older coach located in Ojai’s most desirable all
age park. Located on the outside perimeter with no neighbor
behind you. Floor plan offers a large living room. Ideal for
someone that works at home. $144,000
Carol Blanton: 805-798-2246
Two-bedroom , two-bathroom mobile home with two enclosed patio room additions located in the highly sought after
El Sereno 55+ Park. Family room and living room, dining room
with built in hutch, and spacious kitchen. ​$535,000
Heather Erickson: 805-798-3358
Charming redwood-sided, two-bedroom main home built in
1948 with warm contemporary unit behind that is classified
as a Second Dwelling Unit Front unit has brick fireplace,
hardwood floors and newer vinyl windows. $669,000
Carol Blanton 805-798-2246
Move right into this mobile home. Located on a large
corner lot in the gated 55+ community of Ojai Villa. Sit
in your living room or large porch and enjoy the views of
the Topa Topas and Ojai’s Pink moment. $69,500
Heather Erickson 805-798-3358
5.28 Acres currently planted with Valencia oranges. The
property is adjacent to the 5-acre orchard to the West (401
Walbridge Way). Entry to the property is from West Lomita
where there is an 80-foot-wide access. $525,000
Glenn Kuhr: 805-760-0366
Live in the heart of Ojai. Walk to restaurants, shops, Libbey
Park. 3-bedroom, 2-bath large backyard. Bamboo flooring.
Some upgrading in kitchen and house freshly painted. Needs
some minor improvements but is comfortable. $580,000
Dale Hanson 805-646-7229
The Walbridge family name is well known and respected
in Ventura County and is the namesake of the private
lane that is access to the 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home
and 5-acre grove. $1,750,000
Glenn Kuhr: 805 760-0366
Ojai Valley Real Estate
Sales/Property Management/Notary
www.ojaivalleyrealestate.com
206 East Ojai Avenue
(next to the Ojai Village Pharmacy)
646-4911
ovhl@west.net
221 East Matilija Street
(Across from the Sunday Farmers Market)
SOLD IN OJAI
Marsha Kaye
Loan Officer
NMLS #358407
Business/Cell: (805) 640-0654
Fax: (877) 295-8577
September 1 to September 30
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
OF RECENT HOME SALES
302 Bald Street, 2 bed, 1 bath,
858 sq. ft. Listed $488,000. Sold
$440,000
1250 Meyers Road, 1 bed, 1
bath, 750 sq. ft. Listed $895,000.
Sold $830,000
411 Park Road, 3 bed, 1.75 bath,
1,200 sq. ft. Listed $599,000.
Sold $602,000
421 Los Alamos Drive, 3 bed,
2.5 bath, 2,150 sq. ft. Listed
$895,000. Sold $855,000
599 Tico Road, 2 bed, 1.75 bath,
959 sq. ft. Listed $615,000. Sold
$611,800
205-207 East Oak Street, 4
bed, 2 bath, 1,634 sq. ft. Listed
$1,049,000. Sold $1,005,000
89 Brandt Avenue, Oak View, 2
bed, 1.75 bath, 1,118 sq. ft. Listed
$669,000. Sold $627,500
417 Andrew Drive, 3 bed,
2.5 bath, 2,691 sq. ft. Listed
$1,099,000. Sold S1,015,625
155 Alto Drive, Oak View, 3
bed, 2 bath, 1,488 sq. ft. Listed
$739,000. Sold $729,000
504 Lion Street, 3 bed, 4 bath,
4,348 sq. ft. Listed $1,145,000.
Sold $1,060,000
804 Mountain View Avenue, 2
bed, 2 bath, 1,949 sq. ft. Listed
$729,000. Sold $760,000
1450 Grand Avenue, 3 bed,
2.5 bath, 3,715 sq. ft. Listed
$1,845,000. Sold $1,705,000
514 El Sol Street, 3 bed, 3 bath,
2,087 sq. ft. Listed $847,000.
Sold $809,250
12768 Blue Heron Circle, 5 bed,
6.5 bath, 6,285 sq. ft. Listed
$2,300,000. Sold $2,046,500
marsha.kaye@prospectmtg.com
www.myprospectmtg.com/mkaye
Open Your Presents in Ojai
this Holiday Season
Imagine spending this holiday season
in the home of your dreams!
Starting your home search now gives
you plenty of time to find a home and
get settled in for the holidays.
Contact me for more information
on any of our loan programs or
to get started on a pre-approval so you
can start shopping right away!
Marsha Kaye
Your Ojai Home Loan Specialist
Home town solutions for your lending needs
307 East Matilija Street, Suite G, Ojai, CA 93023
Information provided by Ojai MLS
Loan inquiries and applications in states where I am not licensed will be referred to
a Loan Officer who is licensed in the property state. Equal Housing Lender. Prospect
Mortgage is located at 15301 Ventura Blvd., Suite D300, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403. Prospect
Mortgage, LLC (NMLS Identifier #3296, www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) is a Delaware
limited liability company, licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the
California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a
commitment to lend. Rev 8.29.13 (0813-0454)
OM - October / 2016
37
FEATURED
FEATURED
PROFESSIONAL
PROFESSIONAL
L isa
L ynch
OJAI BABY PIXIE TRIBE
By Sarah Howery Hart
Lisa Lynch opened her business, Ojai Baby on Signal Street, after
her move to Ojai from Santa Barbara left her with an unanswered
question: Where was she going to offer her custom-designed line of
children’s clothing to the growing number of customers asking for
her baby onesies, t-shirts, caps, and other items for their kids?
Lynch’s clothing designs evolved from her children’s’ paintings,
which earned her fans, including Ojai residents, when she sold them
in Goleta. “But when we moved to Ojai six years ago,” she explains, “I
realized there was no kids’ store here where I could sell the paintings,
so I opened one.”
She now turns her art into children’s clothing, too, printed
frequently by Ojai’s Chris Wilson, using environmentally-friendly
ink. She even does some printing herself, including bulk items, such
as 30-plus t-shirts. “We customize for parties, too, something like
baby’s first birthday, with the children’s names.”
Lynch says the children, parents, grandparents and friends have
become increasingly involved in the shop, to the point that she
formed an official group, the Pixie Tribe, which offers events for all
ages. Concerning the name, Lynch says, “We have the line of Pixie
Tribe clothing, and kids are kind of pixie-like, so it just seemed fitting
to have this club become our Pixie Tribe. But, it’s more about the
energy of children and parents and the magical whimsy.”
That energy she mentions is in part related to the Pixie Tribe’s
Children’s Yoga sessions, two Sunday’s monthly, led by Ojai
instructor, Eden Flynn. “It’s a very magical time,” Lynch says. “Eden
uses a lot of nature, so she has kids become trees, wind, rocks, rivers. It’s
a sweet time for connection, and it’s seriously the cutest thing when
the children are being trees, stretched out, then they’re waves, and
they try to make the right position. Everyone becomes very happy
and energized.” Ojai Baby carries a line of children’s mats, too, The
Little Yoga Mat, which is latex- and PCB-free.
Lynch says that of course moms are instrumental in the Pixie Tribe,
hence, the Pixie Mama Happy Hour she hosts, during which local
Ojai baby/children-related business women are featured, including,
recently, Sonia Erneux, owner of Love Tanjane clothing. “We meet
and greet and have beverages and appetizers,” Lynch says. “These
events are monthly and include some sort of giveaway or raffle. It’s a
great time to connect with other women in town.”
Other upcoming Ojai Baby events, all open to the public, include
Ojai Baby’s involvement in Trick-or-Treat Ojai on October 31,
whereby children are invited to visit Ojai businesses. Lynch will
host a costume contest and award prizes. “This is a fun way to get the
community involved with the merchants,” she says. Lynch’s custom
designs include trick-or-treat bags, available at her store.
On November 12, Ojai Baby will sponsor pictures with Santa, with
photographer Whitney Hartmann. Lynch will hold her annual Ojai
Baby ornament-making event, on December 10. “Last year we got
some really large pinecones,” she says,” and kids had a blast making
them into ornaments.” She says this year’s event will again include a
woodland theme. In addition to new products, the boutique carries high-end
consignment items. “We’re very conscious of the products we carry
and the consignments we accept,” she says. Ojai Baby is devoted to
Ojai children, their families, friends, and to visitors seeking children’s
clothing and gifts, including those with Ojai themes. “Right now,
we have an Ojai jack-o-lantern,” Lynch says. “I even make custom
decals and stickers for local events, and we have one especially
popular design, our original Ojai cityscape with our mountains in the
background.”
Ojai Baby, 203 N Signal Street, Ojai, 805.921.5353, info@ojaibaby.com
Fabulous 2-Acre Gated Estate
• 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bathroom, 3040 square-foot main house.
• Brand-new 700 square-foot, custom built detached guesthouse.
• Many upgrades: hardwood floors, new carpet, bathroom remodels etc.
Call for more info - 805-207-5094
LOOKING TO BUY IN ITALY? Go to BuyaHouseinUmbria.com
Ross Falvo
Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe
805-207-5094
BRE 01504988
OjaiRe.com
FOUNDING FATHERS & MOTHERS
While Edward Drummond Libbey is rightfully regarded among Ojai’s chief benefactors — having been
behind the building of such Ojai landmarks as the
Ojai Valley Inn, St. Thomas Aquinas Church (now
the Museum), Post Office Tower and the Arcade,
others have been very influential in shaping Ojai’s
identity. Here’s a few:
Annie Besant. Free-thinker, feminist and noted Theosophist. Though she only spent a few days in Ojai,
she brought Krishnamurti to Ojai, and helped buy
hundreds of acres of property in Ojai, (now the
sites of Besant Hill School and, along with A.P. Warrington, the Krotona Center) which she called “the
smiling vale.” She is considered one of the pioneers of
introducing Eastern mystical thought to the West, and was an early
advocate of India’s independence. and the labor movement.
J Krishnamurti. The spiritual teacher and writer, came
to Ojai in 1922, sponsored by the Theosophical Society, though he later broke with that group (“The
Leaderless Path.”) He gave talks to many thousands
of people each year, in the Star Camps in the oak
groves west of Ojai (now the site of Oak Grove
School. He once held the Guinness Book of World
Records for having spoken to the greatest number of people.
Sherman Day Thacher. After coming West to
farm and care for an ailing brother, the Yale-educated Thacher realized that he was going to
need another source of income. So he founded
The Thacher School in 1887. Now one of the
most prestigious preparatory academies in the
country, its founding creed was “teach a boy to
ride, shoot and tell the truth.” Also, in 1896, his brother William
founded “The Ojai,” the country’s oldest amateur tennis tournament. Among Thacher’s more illustrious students were industrialist, aviator and film producer Howard Hughes and three-time
Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and novelist Thornton Wilder,
who wrote his first play while a Thacher student.
OJAI QUICK FACTS
WEATHER IN OJAI
Ave. High (°F)
Ave. Low
Jan
67
36
Feb
67
38
March
70
41
April
74
43
May
78
48
June
83
51
July
89
56
Aug.
91
55
Sept.
87
53
Oct.
80
47
Nov.
73
40
Dec.
66
35
Average Annual Rainfall:
Precip.
5.04
5.24
3.35
1.22
.47
.12
.04
.005
.2
.98
1.69
2.95
21.3
Record High Year
112°1955
Population:
7,461
Valley: (est.)
21,300
Record Low Year
16°1990
Households:: 3,176
40
Beatrice Wood. The famed ceramicist’s (“The
Mama of Dada”) greatest work of art may well
have been her life. The irreverent, avant-garde
Wood lived and worked in Ojai for decades
until her death in 1998 at age 105. She inspired
two classic movies, Francois Truffaut’s “Jules et
Jim,” and James Cameron’s “Titanic.” She attributed her longevity to “chocolate and young men.” Her autobiography was appropriately titled, “I Shock Myself.” Many of her
distinctive, whimsical, luminous luster-glazed pieces are on
display at her former home, now the Beatrice Wood Center, in
upper Ojai.
Elevation: 745
OM - October / 2016
The name “Ojai” is believed to be derived from the Ventureño Chumash
word ‘awhaý, meaning “moon.” In 1837, Fernando Tico received a land
grant and established a cattle ranch. Thomas A. Scott, who had financial
success with oil and railroads, bought the Ojai Valley in 1864 for oil
exploration. By 1868, Scott, through his agent Thomas Bard, began selling
properties to homesteaders. By 1874, R.G. Surdam plotted out the town
he would call Nordhoff, renamed Ojai in 1917.
Ojai is about 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 30 miles east
of Santa Barbara. The valley is about 10 miles long by 3 miles wide,
surrounded by hills and mountains; the rare east-west orientation with
a slight southward tilt gives the valley an extraordinary sun exposure;
Ojai’s citrus and avocado crops are highly prized. This orientation also
gives rise to Ojai as a spiritual destination.
It was due to the resources and organizing energy of Ohio glass manufacturer Edward Drummond Libbey that Ojai took its present shape.
By 1917, with the construction of the Arcade and Post Office Tower, the
town took its present shape.
The city’s self-styled nickname is “Shangri-La,” based on the story that
Ojai was the backdrop (later left on the editing room floor) from the 1937
movie as the mystical sanctuary of James Hilton’s novel “Lost Horizon.”
OJAI HIKES
7 WAYS TO
GET LOST
By Bret Bradigan
1. SHELF ROAD
Directions: From Ojai Avenue, head north on Signal Street
until it ends. Length: 3.5 miles return trip. Difficulty: Easy. It
takes about an hour at a brisk pace to walk the length of the trail
and back between the trailheads at either North Signal Street
or Gridley Road. This hike is perfect for visitors or residents to
get “ the lay of the land” in Ojai. It is also one of the most “dog
friendly” walks around.
2. VENTURA RIVER BOTTOM TRAILS
Directions: From Highway 150, there’s a trailhead just east
of the Ventura River bridge. From South Rice Road, there’s
a trailhead just north of the intersection with Lomita Road.
Also from South Rice, take a right on Meyer Road to the Oso
Trailhead. Length: Varies. Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Three
trailheads lead you into the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy’s
1,600-acre Ventura River Preserve. This three-mile stretch of the
Ventura River offers a spectacular glimpse into old-growth oak
canopy, splendid vistas from rocky ridgelines, deep swimming
holes, lush fern grottoes, rare wildflowers and many miles of
trails to choose from.
3. PRATT TRAIL
Directions: From Ojai Avenue, turn north on Signal Street and
drive about 1.2 miles until you see the Forest Service sign on the
left. The trailhead is a further half-mile. Length: 4.4 miles to
Nordhoff Ridge. Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous. The Pratt
Trail criss-crosses a seasonal stream through the backyards of
private properties before opening onto a natural bowl formed
by the slope of Nordhoff Ridge. Follow the signs through about
two miles of dry and dusty switchbacks until you reach the
ridgeline. From there, it’s another two steep, dusty miles to
Nordhoff Peak, 4,426 feet above sea level.
4. GRIDLEY TRAIL
Directions: From Ojai Avenue, turn on the Gridley Road.
Photo by Caitlin Petersen
Follow it to the gated end, about two miles. Length: 3 miles
to the Gridley Springs, 6 miles to Nordhoff Peak. Difficulty:
Moderate to strenuous. Elevation gain: 1,200 feet to the springs.
This trail, at the north end of Gridley Road just to the left before
the gates to Hermitage Ranch, begins with a steep climb, then
follows an orchard road through avocado trees before making
a northeastward turn along the rocky western flank of the
mountainside. The trail winds along the steep flank of the
mountain until it enters the cool, dense side canyon wherein lies
Gridley Springs.
6. COZY DELL TRAIL
Directions: Head east on the Maricopa Highway (Highway
33) for 3.3 miles. The turnout is on the left, just before and
across from Friend’s Ranch packing house.. Cross the street to
the trailhead. Length: 1.9 miles to Cozy Dell Creek. Difficulty:
Moderate. The trail begins along a seasonal creek and quickly
climbs about 640 feet in elevation along a well-forested and
wild-flowered canyon to a ridgeline knoll with spectacular
views of the Ojai Valley.
7. MIDDLE FORK OF MATILIJA CANYON
Directions: Head east on Highway 33 for about 4.7 miles to
Matilija Canyon Road. Follow the road to the end — about
another two miles. Length: Up to 7 miles (14 miles return).
Difficulty: Moderate. Follow the trailhead at the end of Matilija
Canyon Road through the gated property to the west side of the
creek. The trail, more of a one-track road at this point, heads
towards the gates of Blue Heron Ranch, a historic farm with
orange and lemon groves. The trail then clambers through
thickening chaparral scrub for another 1.5 miles until you can
see tilted slabs of weathered granite and a long, green pool to the
right. The trail descends back into the creekside sycamore and
willow forest through a series of campsites, swimming holes
and geologic marvels. The shifting and often-concealed trail
eventually leads you to the fabled Three Falls of the Matilija.
MY IDEAL
OJAI DAY
I wake up earlier then usual on this nippy October morning,
excited to welcome the day of our much-anticipated event, The
Ojai Day Mandala Big Night Painting Extravaganza! Lingering
longer then usual over a morning cup of coffee, planning, jotting down last-minute details, phone calls and thinking of what
I need to gather for tonight’s merry Mandala making. I’m happy
and comforted knowing we’ve gotten a bigger jump on the myriad prep work this year but, yay, not till the “Big Event” will we
ever know for sure. The Mandala
Mavens never cease to amaze with
their ability to pull off this huge
endeavor with nary a glitch.
The Friday night before Ojai
Day is when we prepare to make
the Ojai Day Mandala. Our team of
seven, the Mandala Mavens, have
been preparing for weeks to be to
make this 50-foot diameter mandala on the street in the main intersection of town — the crossroads of
Ojai Avenue and Signal Street.
That night, after the main street
is closed off in preparation for Saturday’s big event, we make the huge
street painting with whoever shows
up to participate , usually between
100-150 people throughout the six
hours we work and play.
Ojai Day is the third Saturday in
October every year (Oct. 15th this
year) and so our gig is the third Friday, the night before. That
Friday is always very special and exciting. I’ll check in with
Amber Young, the Ojai Day Coordinator, so we can coordinate getting the paint and supplies for the night. I go for my morning
walk on the bike path to the view of Lake Casitas and then
go for a yoga class at Sacred Space studio so I am limber for a
night of painting on the street At 10 a.m. I open my boutique,
Studio Sauvageau, which is in the courtyard of the Arcade.
That’s where I cut the fabrics I need to complete orders, while
answering questions from callers and passersby about the man-
River Sauvageau
dala making that night.
Annelie Messina whipped through her rounds early today,
supplying the local markets with her fabulous Exotic Spice
Company orders and is masterfully batching up the main paint
colors in 5-gallon buckets as we speak.
Ariana Milton wastes no time tossing off her Jersey Mike’s
toque only to don the paint-table lady hat and to make an
inventory of the brushes, buckets, cups and what-have-yous.
Armed with her “Big Night Must
Have” list she meets me at my studio. It’s the perfect place to gather
the materials we’ll need for the
night, as it’s not far from the intersection where we will be making
the mandala later that night.
Pausing from drawing and designing a large -tiled mural project
for Balboa Park in San Diego, Mary
Kennedy of RTK Studios gives
attention to drawing, measuring
and cutting out full-sized cardboard
templates. The driveway (on hands
and knees) provides the biggest
space to create these templates,
which will certainly expedite the
“Big Event” mandala creation and
quickly get sections ready for the
kids and workers to begin painting. Mary’s specialty has become
creating the border design, which
incorporates the year in a whimsical way.
Erin Inman gathers the measuring tapes and strings to prepare for scribing the basic design on the pavement before any
painting actually begins. Evergreen takes a few moments on her break at Pacifica
to catch up on social media postings to remind the community
that, yes, it is tonight that we are meeting in the middle of the
street to paint the mandala. As we like to say, “Be there or be
square.”
Allyx McCormick, our newest team member, finishes her
classes for the day and dons her mandala-making hat to come and be part of
the magic of seeing our design come to life.
We all meet downtown at Mary Kennedy’s house for preparation,
potluck and faceprinting. Evergreen, a fabulous thrifter, will bring a bag of
funny hats for us and we’ll paint our faces as we’re grabbing a bite to eat and
watching the Ojai cam to see when the street is getting closed (somewhere
between 8-9 p.m.) so we know it’s time to go down and meet the tsunami
that is making the Mandala,
Once we’re at the intersection we start setting up the generator and lights
and the paint table. Part of the team is scribing the basic form on the streetm
so we can get the painting started as soon as possible.
Meantime, we have dozens of children asking “When can we paint?!” Mary
quickly lays down the templates, draws in the designs and Ariana hands out
cups of paint to the waiting participants.
Artists and their helpers are assigned areas to paint with graphic pictorial
designs and non-artists are put to painting in areas that are not artistically
challenging.
Meantime, more and more people are coming to participate and we do our
best to put them where they can best help. By 11 that night, it’s a controlled
chaos and we can look up across the crowd and take in the moment of
magical creation that we have been planning and working towards all year.
Usually by 1 a.m. the crowd has thinned considerably, most of the children
are home in bed, and it is the artists who are diligently working on their pieces. One by one, as they complete and leave we have a small crew of die-hards
who are there until the joyful completion.
Once it is mostly all painted in, the Mavens paint the center, which is
saved until last. We look at how the colors are in the whole and choose our
colors for the center accordingly, to tie it all together at the end. We usually
finish by about 3 a.m., cleaning up and packing everything away until next
year. As we leave the mandala glistens under the street lights, winking a
sparkling goodbye to us as it dries.
The Ojai Day Mandala Big Night Painting Extravaganza crew includes River Sauvageau, Mary Kennedy, Evergreen, Erin Inman and Allyx McCormick.
FIVE LOW-WATER
PRIVACY HEDGES
By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela
been used to treat anemia, allergies, fever, arthritis and the
common cold.
Being part of a small-town community and knowing our
neighbors is an important part of the Ojai lifestyle, but this does
not preclude most of us wanting privacy when relaxing or entertaining guests in our outdoor living areas.
3. Indian Hawthorn: This popular herb garden option is generally grown for culinary purposes, but oregano also has medicinal qualities and can be grown as an ornamental plant. Oregano
can thrive with little water grown in the ground or in containers
and can be particularly appealing for its ability to repel a variety
of insects when planted around your outdoor living areas.
Natural privacy screens, such as shrubs and trees, are an attractive way to enhance the privacy afforded by fences or can be
used alone to obscure the view of your yard. Of course, with our
seemingly ever-present drought conditions, choosing low-water
options is a must.
4. Texas Ranger: Echinacea is a member of the daisy family
and can be found in all sorts of herbal and over-the-counter
remedies for preventing and treating the flu and the common
cold. It can be grown in your garden for use in making home
remedies and teas or can simply be used as an ornamental plant.
Pink flowers are the most common, but you can also find Echinacea that blooms with red, white or orange flowers.
Here are five drought-tolerant privacy hedges for you to
consider:
1. California Buckthorn: This California native is also known
as California coffeeberry. Growing to about six feet, this flowering shrub has edible berries that can be made into jam and were
historically used by Native Americans for food and medicine.
The combination of green leaves, red branches and dark berries
also adds lots of visual interest to your yard. As an added bonus,
this option attracts pollinators.
5. Coyote Brush: Thyme is available in taller varieties that
can be grown for culinary and medicinal use and low-growing
varieties that can be used as a low-water ground cover. Ground
cover varieties can handle foot traffic, so you can even grow
them between stepping stones in walkways. Historically, thyme
grown for medicinal purposes has been used to treat sore throat,
bronchitis, fatigue, muscle pain, anxiety, parasites and several
other ailments.
2. Texas Privet: Feverfew is probably best known for its use as
a headache and migraine remedy, but throughout history it has
been used for a variety of medicinal purposes. This drought-tolerant herb with white flowers reminiscent of tiny daisies has
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44
OM - October / 2016
J. M. Johnston Construction
Craftsman Designed Solutions
General Contractor Lic. #849133
805 640 7230
www.jmjohnston.com
We know Ojai.
20+ Acre Upper Ojai Montecito-Style Estate
$3,995,000 www.12147OldWalnutRoad.com
40+ Acre East End Retreat with Five Houses
$5,297,000
www.3359ReevesRoad.com
Build your dream home on one of
three adjacent, approximately 1.25acre lots with flat, usable land on
South La Luna Avenue.
$425,000 each
560+/- Acre Matilija Canyon Ranch
$5,995,000
www.MatilijaCanyonRanch.com
2BR + 2BA Ranch-Style
Home on 42+ Acres.
$959,900
www.15301OjaiRoad.com
Turnkey, first floor, corner unit, 2 BR
+ 2 BA condo with fireplace, patio
and covered parking short walk from
Ojai shops and restaurants.
$410,000
The Davis Group
ojaivalleyestates.com
We’re lifelong residents.
Luxury, 12-Acre Horse Ranch
$3,999,000 www.10901CreekRoad.com
Farmhouse & Horse Facilities Near Downtown
$1,329,000
www.512GrandAvenue.com
Build your dream home on this 19+ acre
Upper Ojai land with magnificent views,
shared well and utilities onsite
$529,000
4 BR + 2.75 BA Rancho La Vista Estates home
with remodeled kitchen, fireplace, large yard, mountain views, community pool/tennis court and more
$729,900
40 Acres with Views and
Trails in Rose Valley.
$1,200,000
www.RoseValleyLand.Info
Nora Davis
805.207.6177
nora@ojaivalleyestates.com
Rare opportunity to buy Gateway Plaza!
Oak View shopping center with
long-term occupants, large parking
lot and great location.
$1,950,000
MAYOR
PAUL BLATZ
FOR
MAYOR
Ojai’s Proven Leader
Vote November 8th