Discover Monthly

DISCOVER PEAKPEEK Music Festival’s Holiday Home Look-In

N 9 O 1 V 0 OJEMBER 2 AI MONTHLY Real Estate & Visitors Guide

Cover Photo Nora Davis, LIV Sotheby’s • See Page 47 ANACTOR’SLIFE DOYOUHEAR? David Taylor’s Ojai Odyssey The Story Behind the Songs

Visitor Information • Hikes • Events • Activities • Lifestyle Tips & Tactics See More At OJAIHUBCOM Authentically Restored This historic Spanish Colonial Estate was originally built in 1926 by famed architect Arthur E. Harvey, creator of the Château Élysée in Los Angeles; it has incredible views and is situated on almost 8 lush acres near the edge of the Arbolada. The main house was authentically and beautifully restored with an architectural historian from the original blueprints, utilizing the nest materials by Allen Construction. The goal was to blend the old with the new and modernize this stunning estate with exquisite attention to detail.

THE EL TORO ESTATE This property is truly a work of art; from the historical tiles to the arched entryways, every one of the original elements invokes a sense of appreciation. With an expansive and eclectic energy, it feels like you are standing in a modernized California Mission. The main house has 7 bedrooms, 6 baths, and the property includes a water well, a tennis court, a pool, and a 2br/2ba guest house. Ecological landscape design facilitates water retention that feeds the goji berries, guavas, bananas, gs, papayas, grapefruits, mulberries, apricots, plums, and avocados. The self-sustaining farming methodology creates an environment that has enabled the fruit trees to thrive in harsh weather conditions. 1190ElToroRdOjai.com Price Upon Request Presented PATTY by WALTCHER (805) 340-3774 pattywaltcher.com THE EL TORO ESTATE This property is truly a work of art; from the historical tiles to the arched entryways, every one of the original elements invokes a sense of appreciation. With an expansive and eclectic energy, it feels like you are standing in a modernized California Mission. The main house has 7 bedrooms, 6 baths, and the property includes a water well, a tennis court, a pool, and a 2br/2ba guest house. Ecological landscape design facilitates water retention that feeds the goji berries, guavas, bananas, gs, papayas, grapefruits, mulberries, apricots, plums, and avocados. The self-sustaining farming methodology creates an environment that has enabled the fruit trees to thrive in harsh weather conditions. 1190ElToroRdOjai.com Price Upon Request Presented PATTY by WALTCHER (805) 340-3774 pattywaltcher.com michaels + associates OJAI REAL ESTATE GROUP

6709 BREAKERS WAY Located Near a Legendary Surf Area with in the private beach community of Mussel Shoals... Great opportunity to own a beach cottage. $895,000 A SLICE OF OJAI PARADISE 2144-2150 BALDWIN ROAD OJAI This impeccably renovated 1928 East End cottage de- Private estate 85 plus acres with 6 legal parcels. signed by Austen Pierpont enjoys a most magical 1.1 acre $5,000,000 setting and unparalleled privacy for the 3 Bedroom 2.5 Bath main residence plus newer 1 Bedroom guest cottage. The enormous renovated kitchen with Wolfe, Miele 920 LOMA DRIVE 110 FULTON STREET & Sub-zero appliances will inspire any chef and the Enjoy Entertaining on the Spacious Deck with remodeled baths are absolutely classy! Amazing Valley Views. Custom Home built amidst been remodeled with quality materials and designed with attention to detail--from the open space liv- Relax by the Saltwater Pool or retreat to the very cool home is aprox. 2030 square feet of living space. ing area to the easy care yard, a spacious kitchen 1920’s vintage stone outbuilding: a perfect hideaway for $1,199,000 including farm sink and newer stainless appliances. $695,000 your wine cellar and tastings with friends. Come enjoy the magic!

98 KUNKLE STREET 4821 GRAND AVENUE VALLEY VIEW LOT Enjoy the incredible views looking towards the Sine View lot located on Highlydead end Desired street. OjaiBuild East to suit End $3,695,000 Qua Non vineyards! Living room oers vaulted withRecent utilities Extensive and 3/4 Remodel water meter 3+3, at .90 the of st anreet acre.. ceilings and replace with deck access to the Easy commute to Santa Barbara and V$2,700,000entura. amazing views. 1.5 Bedroom guest quarters. $159,000 $1,095,000 CHAR MICHAELS (805) 620-2438 OJAIHOMES4SALE.COM DRE# 00878649 CATHY TITUS In the Real Estate Industry Since 1986 (805) 798-0960 • c [email protected] 6709 BREAKERS WAY Located Near a Legendary Surf Area with in the private beach community of Mussel Shoals... Great opportunity to own a beach cottage. $895,000

2144-2150 BALDWIN ROAD OJAI Private estate 85 plus acres with 6 legal parcels. $5,000,000

920 LOMA DRIVE 110 FULTON STREET Enjoy Entertaining on the Spacious Deck with Amazing Valley Views. Custom Home built amidst been remodeled with quality materials and designed with attention to detail--from the open space liv- home is aprox. 2030 square feet of living space. ing area to the easy care yard, a spacious kitchen $1,199,000 including farm sink and newer stainless appliances. $695,000

98 KUNKLE STREET 4821 GRAND AVENUE VALLEY VIEW LOT Enjoy the incredible views looking towards the Sine View lot located on Highlydead end Desired street. OjaiBuild East to suit End

Qua Non vineyards! Living room oers vaulted withRecent utilities Extensive and 3/4 Remodel water meter 3+3, at .90 the of st anreet acre.. ceilings and replace with deck access to the Easy commute to Santa Barbara and V$2,700,000entura. amazing views. 1.5 Bedroom guest quarters. $159,000 $1,095,000

CATHY TITUS In the Real Estate Industry Since 1986

(805) 798-0960 • c athytitusojaOM — [email protected] 2019 om 5 TABLE OF CONTENTS

NOVEMBER 2019

7 Editor’s Note 16 14 Calendar of Events 16 Featured Event: Holiday Home Look-In 22 Featured Professional: 26 David Nelson Taylor 26 Avoiding Mortgage Insurance 30 My Garden — Feeling Grateful 33 Sold in Ojai 34 Who’s Who In Ojai 36 Stay Ojai — Hotels Guide 37 Chef Randy — Pumpkin Soup 38 Eat in Ojai — Restaurant Guide 40 Top 7 Hikes Into Ojai’s Backcountry 42 Ideal Ojai Day 44 Ojai Facts & Founders 37 42

Editor & Publisher, Bret Bradigan DISCOVER PEAK PEEK Music Festival’s Realtor/Partner, Ross Falvo Holiday Home Look-In

N 9 O 1 V 0 Contact Us: OJAIEMBER 2 MONTHLY Ross Falvo, 805.207.5094 Real Estate & Visitors Guide [email protected] 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. Cover: Property represented by Nora

Davis/LIV Sotheby’s Cover Photo Nora Davis, LIV Sotheby’s • See Page 47 40 AN ACTOR’S LIFE DO YOU HEAR? David Taylor’s Ojai Odyssey The Story Behind the Songs

Visitor Information • Hikes • Events • Activities • Lifestyle Tips & Tactics

See MoreOM —At November OJAIHUB.COM 2019 1

6 OM — November 2019

OJAIDISCOVER MONTHLY

HOMEGROWING SOLUTIONS

Ojai has been on the upswing since the Thomas Fire’s devastation. For those grim, ashen days at the charred end of 2017, it seemed like our world was ending. Downtown was a ghost zone, with only a few mask-clad venturers out and about. We were so busy evacuating and/or looking out for our neighbors (thank you to Travis Escalante and Trevor Quirk, among others) that we didn’t really stop to absorb the dread.

When we did, we discovered that the resiliency of Ojai was a force to behold. The #OjaiStrong movement drew tens of thousands of supporters, promoting local wares and local businesses. The Inn pitched in to keep Bret Bradigan the visitors bureau operating during that key time. We at Ojai Quarterly and Ojai Monthly started the Ojai Hub, which answers weekly the common question: “What’s going on in Ojai?”

So by most measures, Ojai’s economy rebounded smoothly and strongly. The fire’s fallout had a slight impact on our two primary indicators — the transient occupancy or “bed” tax and the sales tax revenues — are projected to be around $2.85 million and sales tax revenues of $1.5 milion, very close to normal.

In the bigger picture, I have my doubts about pure capitalism — incentives can be skewed, inequality seems an inexorable quality, and far too many get left behind. Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia founder and perhaps the business world’s foremost philospher of sustainability, recently said in Fast Company magazine, “Ultimately, capitalism is going to lose its customers. There won’t be anybody to buy the product because everybody is going to be so poor.”

Despite that, I have faith in a system that rewards innovation and hard work, if, regrettably and all too often, not equally or fairly. To paraphrase Malcolm Gladwell, “Doubt isn’t the enemy of faith. It’s its companion.”

Now our downtown scene is flourishing — the foot traffic alone on a typical weekend is more than I’ve witnessed in my 20 years in Ojai. The traffic, sadly, is getting thicker. But compared to what? Just try getting across the 101- 405 interchange at any hour, or getting from one end of Santa Barbara to the other, and you’ll see worse.

There are solutions, for sure, that would require will and risk and political courage and innovative spirit. Chief on that list is affordable housing. Creating more affordable housing addresses four or five problems at once — traffic, inequality, air quality, social infrastructure among them. The worst of our traffic is during commuting hours. If those people lived here — the teachers, the police, the hospital staff, the hospitality workers — traffic would diminish significantly.

These are not problems that lend themselves to free-market solutions, however, because housing prices in Ojai dictate that profits are maximized with more expensive developments. Ojai’s prior affordable housing project, Sycamore Homes, was finished in 2003. The 25 single-family homes were targeted to first-time buyers with an income of 80 percent of the area median income. At the time, the median home price was $400,000, and those homes all sold for less than $178,000.

But it wasn’t a simple collaboration — a partial list of agencies involved include the Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (which won an award for the development), the City of Ojai’s Redevelopment Agency, Ventura County, Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation, construction lenders Wells Fargo, Rural Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, Washington Mutual Bank and the state of California CalHome Program.

That’s a lot of moving parts for 25 homes that barely make a dent in the need. We need a lot more interagency cooperation and money sources, a lot of long-term planning and entrepreneurial vision to steer Ojai into its best possible future. The first step would be a campaign of consensus building and persuasion to figure out exactly what the best possible future looks like.

OM — November 2019 7 Dale Hanson rameworks of Ojai Ojai Valley Real Estate F custom picture framing B.R.E. 01229522 (805)646-7229 Notary Public [email protected]

Call me for your real estate needs. archival quality Residential, commercial, or business opportunity. friendly service

Great location for commercial business or Hours: Monday ~ Friday 10 - 5 restaurant. Large parking in back. The building Saturday 11 - 3, or by appointment. is updated and very clean. Forced air and heat- ing, 3 private offices. A bath room and small wet (805) 640-3601 kitchen. Separate attached unit with 3/4 bath and private entrance and address. $775,000 236 w. ojai ave, #203, ojai, ca 93023 [email protected]

Stephen Adelman “Your Family Man Realtor” Mind Your Manors Second Home & Vacation Home Management Services

Second Home Management Services • Local point of contact for house checks, deliveries & emergencies • Scheduling & management of housekeepers & landscapers • Bid acquisition & scheduling of contractors • Customized plans to fit your property, schedule & lifestyle • Short-term services available for temporary relocations 805-640-5563 www.MindYourManors.info www.ojailuxuryrealestate.com 805.258.3051 [email protected]

8 OM — November 2019 501 Vallerio Avenue - $839,000 1223 Fierro Drive - $689,000

3 bedroom/2 bathroom, 1,893 sq. ft. home on .34 acres Refreshed 4 bed/2 bath, 1,311 sq. ft. home on a .24 acre w/Venetian plaster walls, a huge family/entertainment lot. Newer wood-look flooring, interior paint, modernized room, “Pink Moment” sunsets, remodeled bathrooms, kitchen and bathrooms with newer cabinets and granite and room for a pool or large garden. Turn-key! and stone counters, great neighborhood!

1003 N. Drown Avenue - $799,999 1442 S. Rice Road - $1,350,000

4 bedroom/2 bathroom, 1,392 s.f. of living space on .44 Spacious 7 bed/5 bath, 6,484 sq. ft. home on 1.17 acres. acres, more than enough space to plant a large garden Separate permitted 1 bed/1 bath guest suite allows for or install a pool. Beautifully remodeled separate guest potential rental income. Gorgeously landscaped quarters, original & refinished wood floors in main house. grounds. Horses allowed! SALE PENDING

59 W. Calle El Prado - $549,000

4 bedroom/2 bathroom, 1,584 sq. ft. home with bonus room, located in Oak View. Large master bedroom w/ en-suite bath, terraced back yard. Easy access to Ojai and Ventura!

DRE# 01761150, 00780642, 01877842

Phone: 805.272.5221 ~ Email: [email protected] ~ Web: www.BestBuysInOjai.com

OM — November 2019 9 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Attitude Adjustment Shop www.AttitudeAdjustmentShop.com

PROPERTY SHOPPE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DIVISION JOE DAVIS 1129 Maricopa Highway, Ojai - at the "Y” 805-574-9774 805-646-1109 FAX: 805-646-0927

PROPERTY SHOPPE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DIVISION JOE DAVIS FULL SERVICE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT"The Rental Guy" RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL LIQUOR WINE BEER LOCAL MERCH PACKAGING & SUPPLIES SHIPPING MAILBOX RENTAL MONEY ORDERS www.JoeTheRentalGuy.comJOE DAVIS COPIES FAX SERVICES OFFICE SUPPLIES "The Rental Guy" 727 W OJAI AVE, OJAI CA 93023 • BRE #01999568 DOCUMENT SHREDDING

10 OM — November 2019 OM — November 2019 11 October 31 - November 10 2019 20th Anniversary! • Features, Documentaries, Animation • Screenplay Competition and Live Table Read • Lifetime Achievement Awards • Women in Film Legacy Series • Industry Insiders, Rising Filmmakers, Professional and Student Workshops, Whitman Parties, Surprise Guests and Honorees Architectural Design • Opening Night Carnivale! Free Halloween Movie in Libbey Bowl, Live Music Pre-Show: Bands, Dance, Poetry, Costume Contest, Surprise Guests. Children’s Faire with Arts & Crafts, Face Painting, Fortune Telling, Prizes, Games and more! October 31, 4pm, Libbey Fountain Plaza.

www.whitman-architect.com Providing the highest quality OjaiFilmFestival.com custom residential & commercial Architectural Design and Construction Services. 805-646-8485 805.640.1947 “We Shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.” Winston Churchill ENRICHING THE HUMAN SPIRIT THROUGH FILM

12 OM — November 2019 Donna Sallen

Nestled on over an acre of land, this Italian Villa inspired estate is just minutes from downtown Ojai. This impressive family home is perfect for entertaining with the formal dining opening to the light filled formal living room with an elegant marble fireplace. The kitchen is open to the den with a large fireplace and overlooks the huge covered deck for relaxing. A charm filled master suite is warmed with a corner fireplace and lots of windows. There are marble and hardwood floors throughout and nearly every room opens to the amazing backyard. With a huge pool, a cooks dream outdoor kitchen, nanny’s quarters, a treehouse, (not just for the kids), and a variety of fruit trees and Majestic oaks this home has something to offer all your friends and family. There is a three car garage and plenty of parking. This completely fenced, gated and secluded property is within walking distance to restaurants, shops and Libbey park.

Donna Sallen 805-798-0516 There’s no place like home ... www.DonnaSallen.com [email protected] Let me find yours.

OM — November 2019 13 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

NOVEMBER The Ojai Film Festival will run from Oct. Published by Lee Waisler in 1987, when OCTOBER 31 — NOVEMBER 3 31 through Nov. 10, with screenings, semi- Wood was in her nineties, the twenty THE DEBORAH KING CENTER’S “HALLOW- nars and more at various times and venues hand-painted etchings that comprise Bed EEN RETREAT” in Ojai. The Film Festival will open with Stories represent welcome insight into her a free film screening, Oct. 31 at 6:15 p.m. at creative prowess Location: Ojai Valley Inn Libbey Bowl. Times: Varies. NOVEMBER 2 Contact: Deborahking.com/Retreat2019 TO DECEMBER 1 “THE COPERNICAN REVOLUTION” Led by the New York Times best-selling author BEATRICE WOOD: BED STORIES AND Location: The Agora Foundation, and renowned spiritual teacher. Special one-day MORE” 417 Bryant Circle. passes available for Ojai residents at Deborah- Location: Porch Gallery, 310 East Ojai Time: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. king.com/saturday2019. Avenue Contact: 805-231-5974 OCTOBER 31 — NOVEMBER 10 Times: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. agorafoundation.org 20th ANNUAL OJAI FILM FESTIVAL Contact: 805-620-7589, porchgalleryojai. Agora Foundation will host a seminar Location: Varied. com led by Larry Shields on “The Copernican Times: Varied While Wood is best known for her ceram- Revolution: Planetary Astronomy in the Contact: ojaifilmfestival.com, info@ojai- ic works she continued to create two-di- Development of Western Thought” by filmfestival.com mensional work throughout her life. Thomas Kuhn.

REOCCURING EVENTS Historical Walking Tours of Ojai Contact: 295-8687 CertifiedREOCCURING Farmer’s EVENTS Market Date: Saturdays, October through June venturafoodtours.com Date:Certified Every Farmer’s Sunday Market Time: 10:30 a.m. Time:Date: Every 9 a.m. Sundayto 1 p.m. Location: Departs from the Ojai Valley Morning, Guided and Full Moon Contact:Time: 9 a.m. 698-5555 to 1 p.m. Museum, 130 West Ojai Avenue Meditations Location:Contact: 698-5555 Matilija Street city parking lot Contact: 640-1390 Date: TBD behindLocation: the Matilija Arcade. Street city parking lot behindojaivalleymuseum.org the Arcade. Location: Meditation Mount, 10340 Open air market featuring locally grown produce, plants, musicians and handmade items,Reeves including Road soaps, baskets, beeswax growncandles produce, and olive plants, oil. musicians and “Eating Ojai” Food Tour Contact: 646-5508 ext.103 handmade items, including soaps, bas- Date: Call to schedule meditationmount.org kets,Historical beeswax Walking candles Toursand olive of Ojai oil. Time: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Note: Meditation Mount has been on hi- Date: Every Tuesday through Sunday Location: Varies atus since the Thomas Fire. Check their Time: Please call the Museum office to schedule

14 OM — November 2019 OPPOSITE PAGE: The Holiday Home Look-In benefits the Ojai Music THIS PAGE: The Ojai Raptor Center will host an open house on No- Festival with four special homes, decorated for the season. Beatrice vember 3; the American Legion has a day of events to honor America’s Wood’s hand-painted etchings will be on display at Porch Gallery. veterans on November 11.

The Marketplace will be held in Libbey Park. Proceeds benefit the Ojai Music Fes- tival and its music education program. For tickets, go online at OjaiFestival.org or call (805) 646-2053.

Location: The American Legion Hall, NOV. 22 — DEC. 15 NOVEMBER 8 843 East Ojai Avenue “SEUSSICAL, THE MUSICAL” “RE-WRITING OLD STORIES” Times: 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. breakfast; 12 noon Times: Friday, Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sun- Location: The Ojai Library, - Ventura Childrens Choir; 2 p.m. - Quilts days at 2 p.m. 111 E. Ojai Avenue of Valor Location: Ojai Art Center Theater, 113 South Montgomery Street Time: 12 noon Contact: [email protected] or Nan- Contact: ojaiact.org, 805-640-0117 Contact: 805-218-9146 or 805-646-1639 cy Hill at 805-302-6093 “Oh the thinks you can think” when Dr. Sirena Pellarolo, Ph.D., giving a presen- Seuss’ beloved characters collide and tation on “Re-Writing Old Stories: A NOVEMBER 16-17 cavort in this musical caper. Fun-Filled Playshop for Your Emotional HOLIDAY HOME TOUR AND Liberation,” Nov. 8 at noon. Pellarolo is a MARKETPLACE NOVEMBER 30 & DECEMBER 1 board-certified holistic health coach who Location: Marketplace, Libbey Park ‘DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR?’ will help participants to recreate their past Times: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for home tours; 10 Location: Matilija Auditorium, 703 El and imagine their future in new stories of a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for the Marketplace. Paseo Road triumph and happy endings. This event is Contact: OjaiFestival.org, 805-646-2053 Time: 7:30 p.m. Friday & 2 p.m. Sunday free and open to the public. The 23rd annual Holiday Home Tour and Contact: OjaiTheater.org Marketplace will be held Nov. 16 and 17, The origins of Christmas carols and songs NOVEMBER 11 with tours of four distinctive Ojai Valley will be explored musically by Ojai’s lead- VETERANS DAY EVENTS homes adorned with seasonal trimmings. ing talents.

website at meditationmount.org. Location: Ojai Library, “Ojai Seeker’s Bike Tour” 111 East Ojai Avenue Date: By reservation 48 hrs in advance “Third Fridays” Contact: 640-6865 Time: varies Meditation Mount vencolibrary.org Location: varies Date: Third Friday of the month hosts Full Moon Med- Time: 5 to 7:30 p.m. Contact: 272-8102 oritations. email Checkride@ their Location: Downtown Businesses “Shakespeare Salon” themobshop.com orwebsite online at at meditation - Contact: 640-1390 Date: First and third Mondays porchgalleryojai.commount.org or call 646- OjaiVillageExperience.com Time: 7 to 9 p.m. Ojai bike tour features5508 agricultural, for more updates. Location: Ojai Library, 111 East Ojai artistic, culinary, cultural and historical “Ojai Fiction Writing Workshop” Avenue landmarks in Ojai. Date: Every Thursday Contact: 646-1639 Time: 5:30 to 8 p.m.

OM — November 2019 15 HOLIDAY HOMES

Holiday Home Tour & Marketplace

Architect Scott Johnson and Dr. Meg Bates’ house is considered a modernist masterpiece. Photo by Tom Bonner.

Music Festival opens four distinctive homes in full holiday decor

Kick off the start of the holiday season schools and the community. The advance tour price is $40 per at the 23rd Annual Ojai Holiday Home Also taking place the same weekend person. A group discount is also avail- Tour & Marketplace on November is the Holiday Marketplace with its new able for eight or more people. Organizers 16 and 17 in the beautiful Ojai Valley, location at Libbey Park, across from the request no cameras allowed on the tour California. This treasured longstanding Ojai Downtown Arcade. The companion or children under 12 years of age. Com- tradition, presented by the Ojai Festival event will feature a collection of curated fortable shoes are highly recommended Women’s Committee, invites guests to lifestyle and fashion items from more (no high-heeled shoes allowed). Free tour four distinctive Ojai homes, adorned than 40 vendors. Admission to the Mar- shuttle service will be provided for some with floral inspirations by local Ojai ketplace is free and open to the public. of the homes for the convenience of the designers. The Ojai Home Tour and Mar- Weekend hours of the self-guided patrons. ketplace benefits the Ojai Music Festival home tour are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Tickets go on sale in the fall by calling and its BRAVO education and commu- Marketplace hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 805-646-2053, at participating ticket nity program, which offers free music on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on outlets in Ojai and Ventura, and online at workshops to the Ojai Valley public Sunday. OjaiFestival.org.

16 OM — November 2019 Holiday Home Tour & Marketplace

The Wall House: An award-winning home designed by a renowned architect for his own family, this contemporary masterpiece boasts a spacious open interior featuring a raised platform for the concert grand piano, sunken conversation area around the fireplace and a combined kitchen/dining area where the family enjoys memorable times together. The 12-acre secluded property includes peach and apricot orchards, organic food and flower gardens, and bound by tributary streams to the Ventura River on both sides.

Tuscan Ranch: This gem of old world charm boasts gorgeous frescoes, colorful tiles, and ornate wrought iron details. Gracious outdoor living spaces add to the ambiance of this stately home, where the grounds are as lovely as the house. Everywhere you turn, there is beauty to be discovered, with touches of whimsy as well as practicality.

Foothill Farm: The current owners were fastidious about maintaining the architectural integrity of this 1906 classic when they modernized. They have a unique knack for inte- grating an eclectic array of art, from pre-Colombian to modern, and making it look perfectly suited amid the impeccable craftsmanship of this timeless French Normandy treasure.

El Sombrero: Reflecting the owners’ commitment to sustainability and modest sensibility, this modern-day “shack” fits in perfectly on an idyllic 1.25-acre lot in the East End and offers as much living space outdoors as indoors, incorporating countless unique features.

OM — November 2019 17 A Writer’s Christmas Wish Top Talents Converge for Two Shows About Musical Story Behind Christmas Favorites

BY PETER FOX

Elvis reluctantly performed “Blue Christ- mas,” and one of the other musicians at the session said, “That’s one record the record company will never release.”

Writers’ fondest wish is to meet a bona fide producer who carols in that show, which played to sold-out audiences as an reads their writing and says, “This is great. Let’s do it.” OPAT fundraiser for the school’s music department at Matilija I met Joan Kemper 14 years ago when my wife Julie and I Auditorium on Thanksgiving weekend 2018. moved here from Hollywood after 32 years of making a good Cut to (again, sorry): February 2019. Maestro Wagner sends living as an actor in television and movies. In my free time, I out an email tweaking Joan’s phrase with “Let’s do it again.” also started to write with some success, most notably my play Okaaay... “Acts of God.” Joan and I hit it off right away, especially after So, back to the keyboard. Were there enough new Christmas discovering we both grew up in the same village, Wilmette, Il- songs left to capture the spirit of last year’s show? Turns out, linois, albeit a few decades apart. Or, as Joan put her time there, there were plenty. “back when Lincoln was President.” Did you know that Elvis wasn’t fond of “Blue Christmas”? I got involved helping with several of her fundraising OPAT That a song about a shy, physically deformed outcast could productions over the years in exchange for access to her pool go on to become an all-time Christmas favorite? That it took in the heat of summer. One of those sizzling afternoons, we Batman’s Catwoman to give birth to “Santa Baby,” and it took were chatting on her patio about the upcoming Ojai Centen- Madonna to keep it alive? That many of these most popular nial. I mentioned I had written a play about it, and “Let’s do it” songs celebrating this Christian Holy Day were written by Jew- passed her lips. By this time, Joan had started working with ish songwriters? Or that the popularity of this year’s show title Stuart Crowner, an experienced Hollywood producer. We three song “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” was dwarfed combined our efforts, along with Richard Camp, and “Ojai by another song from the same writer -- the theme song to “Gil- Reinvented” was performed in the Libbey Bowl in 2017 for the ligan’s Island”? Centennial. So, for these stories, along with the singing of many classics, Cut to (sorry, Hollywood, ya know): Julie took me to a Christ- the captivating backstories of how each song was created will mas concert that December, and I got the idea of writing a show be given by hosts George Ball and Amanda McBroom. The cast about the origins of Christmas carols and songs. We all know includes Scott White, Betsy Randle, Anna Wagner, JB White, these chestnuts by heart, but how did they come about? It turns and Alexander Schottky. Directing the ensemble, writer of the out there are some fascinating stories attached to many of musical arrangements, and leading the 10-piece professional them. So, I wrote “Do You Hear What I Hear?” in 2018, putting orchestra is Bill Wagner. All proceeds from the concerts benefit my own spin on them and sent it to Joan. Once again, “This is the Nordhoff High School Music Department. great. Let’s do it.” We hope to see you at the Matilija Auditorium on Satur- Enter Maestro Bill Wagner, Nordhoff High’s all things music. day, November 30, at 7:30 pm or Sunday, December 1, at 2 Bill set to work organizing and writing arrangements for the 15 pm. Tickets on sale November 1 at OjaiTheater.org

18 OM — November 2019 The Wall House, a spectacular modern country house, is one of four homes open on the tour. Photo by Tom Bonner

NOVEMBER 16 & 17, 2019

TOUR four distinctive homes in the beautiful Hosted by the Ojai Festival Women’s setting of the Ojai Valley, each adorned Committee with proceeds benefitting the with festive holiday inspirations Ojai Music Festival and its BRAVO education Tour tickets: $40 advance/$45 day of the event and community programs. For tickets and details, call 805 646 2053 SHOP at the Holiday Marketplace featuring or visit OjaiFestival.org a collection of curated lifestyle and fashion items with more than 40 vendors The Holiday Marketplace is open to the public, free admission New location – Libbey Park

OM — November 2019 19 ojaihub.com

Ojai’s community website Events • News • Explore

20 OM — November 2019 OM — November 2019 21 The once-calmed mind is vast. - Alan Watts

Let us help you undo the clutter.

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22 OM — November 2019 OJAI VALLEY Trail Riding Company

Private Guided Trail Rides in the Ventura River Valley and the Los Padres Forest. 3 miles from downtown Ojai Reservations: 805-890-9340 ojaivalleytrailridingcompany.com

FIRESTICK POTTERY CREATIVE SPACE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Gallery • Workshops • Pottery Parties • Free Tours

Open 10-6 Daily • 1804 E. Ojai Avenue • 805.272.8760 • www.ﬁrestickpottery.com

OM — November 2019 23 Donna Sallen

Sitting perfectly on over an acre of land with citrus fruits and a driveway of Cypress trees. Located minutes away from trails, organic grocer, coffee shops and yoga studio. This home has the modern design that unites family spirit, cozy atmosphere and large open spaces. Recently renovated, this light filled house has a spacious floor plan with vaulted ceilings, polished concrete floors and custom doors leading out to a private backyard. The property’s meandering paths lead to an artist studio and a sleeping cottage. This home is made for a true Ojai lifestyle.

WOW, two houses — one lot. Located in Fabulous and charmingly inviting, this two-story Victorian estate is nestled in the magical east end of Ojai. Surrounded by organic the heart of downtown Ojai, there are two orchards and meticulous landscaping, this home is filled with Southern Charm. The wrap around porch looks out to the gardens, homes on one oversized lot to give you a as the country kitchen and breakfast nook looks out to the pool and tennis court. Perfectly situated nearby are the spacious flexible lifestyle. The main home has hard- guesthouse, separate cottages, and a writer’s studio creating plenty of living space for friends and family. wood floors, nice open kitchen to the din- This relaxing and inviting estate is truly elegant. ing room and has been tastefully updated. There is a bonus room in the main home allowing for a third bedroom or recreation room, or an in-law suite. The guest house/ studio offers vaulted ceilings, full kitchen, sparkling bathroom and a large covered patio off the living area. Both yards are extremely private and gated.

Sitting on over three acres in the prestigious Persimmon Hill area of downtown Ojai. This five bedroom, three bathroom sprawling ranch style home showcases open-beamed vaulted ceilings, a stunning great room with a massive brick fireplace, formal dining room, hardwood floors and a large master suite. The french doors and large windows bring a perfect mix of indoor/outdoor living and stunning mountain views to every window. The magical meandering pathways will lead you to an Artist’s studio where you can once again find your creative soul. Donna Sallen There’s no place like home ... 805-798-0516 w ww.DonnaSallen.com Let me find yours. [email protected] Donna Sallen

By Ilona Saari

avid Nelson Taylor grew up did studio audience warm-ups in Kennebunk, Maine. No, and worked with Artistic New Dnot Kennebunkport, but Directions, an improv company Kennebunkport adjacent, an idyllic in Manhattan that modelled itself environment that wasn’t always so after Chicago’s Second City and idyllic for David. As he explains it, he Gary Ostin’s Groundlings. was a little different… a little quirky… and, because of that, at times while Soon, a new adventure beckoned. growing up, he was bullied. But, David While on vacation in southern found his footing on stage when California, David and his wife he began his acting journey in high Tammy visited Ojai and decided school which led him to the Sanford that Ojai was where they wanted Maine Stage, where he appeared to raise their young daughter. They in productions such as Hair and headed west. Now settled in the Dracula. He had found his tribe. valley, serendipity stepped in when David reconnected with his high New York City and all its possibilities school friend, the internationally beckoned soon after he graduated. known mezzo soprano, Rebecca He left his pastoral village on the David Nelson Taylor Comerford, who was already coast of Maine for the cement living in Ojai. Rebecca, the jungle nestled between the Man at his wedding. David also entered founder of the Ojai Youth Opera, shorelines of the East and Hudson Rivers the world of non-profits when he did a a non-profit youth program, produces where he was accepted to the Academy three-month teaching stint in Mexico a full-length children’s opera every of Dramatic Arts. After acting school, with the National Outdoor Leadership year. David began volunteering with David, like zillions of aspiring thespians School, an educational organization the productions by stage managing before him, read Backstage (the theater dedicated to environmental ethics, and working with the children. In actors’ bible for auditions/casting outdoor skills, and wilderness medicine, 2018, the OYO performed Brundibar calls) and made the audition rounds. just to name a few, and where students an opera originally performed during Between acting gigs, he found himself earn certifications in guide training WWII in the concentration camps. in a variety of jobs to support his acting and leadership as they learn about David set about developing a living ambitions. He worked at Pottery Barn teamwork. history to be part of the show. Sourcing and served as a bartender for catering approximately two dozen primary companies at private parties, but it was Santarelli and he performed together texts, he gave each participating child when he became a substitute teacher at in Israel Horowitz’s Rats at The an age-appropriate piece to read. Some Manhattan’s St. Hilda’s & St. Hugh’s co- Underground, a bar/theater venue not were short snippets for the younger kids, ed private school, that he also fell in love far from Columbia University. They others longer and more detailed passages with teaching. Eventually his substitute later created In Vino Productions which for the older children. Each child then position segued into a full-time position produced one-act plays and starred wrote a monologue about the passages teaching 5th graders. While there, he together in Barbershop, an original they had been given. David then distilled met actor Gene Santarelli who became one-act produced at The Underground. the monologues down to a couple of David’s mentor and eventually Best Stretching his acting limits, David sentences of dialogue for each student as

26 OM — November 2019 Rebecca and the OYO team worked on he co-starred in the Ojai Art Center the actual music for these pieces to be Theater’s original hit production of included into the opera. Bless Your Heart, written by Camp.

For his first foray as an actor in Ojai, Because his heart was still with David appeared in Peter Fox’s staged teaching (he has also taught an reading of One Hundred Years of Ojai, adult improv class here in Ojai), he a Libbey Bowl benefit produced by is now teaching drama to students the non-profit Ojai Performing Arts of all ages and math, plus English, Theater to celebrate Ojai’s centennial. history and practical life lessons At that performance, he was spotted by (i.e.: learning how to do laundry, Richard Camp, the Artistic Director of wash dishes, etc.) full-time at the the Ojai Art Center Theater, who was Montessori School of Ojai where his scheduled to direct the opening play of daughter is a student. “I love to teach the theater’s 2019 season. Impressed with because I had great teachers,” David David’s performance, Camp wanted him says, “Three of my four parents are to audition, but at that time, David was teachers. I had wonderfully kind working full-time at Food Harmonics and open theater teachers from restaurant, and was hesitant to return to elementary school through high the stage in a full production. But, he was school… I’ve studied professional acting Actor, writer, teacher, David and intrigued by this Agatha Christie-type with some of the top teachers in NYC/ his “difference and quirkiness” have mystery and was especially drawn to LA. I also firmly believe in the liberating become important additions to the Ojai the enigmatic, sinister character which power of education, especially arts community and he looks forward to would allow him to further develop his educations.” continuing his efforts to contribute to acting chops. He threw caution to the the small town he fell in love with on wind, auditioned and got the part. The David has also been putting pen to paper his very first visit. Ojai has that alluring play was Night Must Fall, chosen to open by creating monologues and stories he effect on many of us. the theater’s 80th Anniversary season hopes to develop into a one-man show. because it had been the first play ever produced at the Art Center in 1939. Continuing his work with children, David also taught a 2019 summer youth TOP: David Taylor and Gene Santarelli in “Barbershop.” acting class at the Ojai Art Center and BELOW: Taylor with his acting students. this past fall, hit the boards again when

OM — November 2019 27 REDUCING YOUR RISKS How to Avoid Mortgage Insurance

By Therese A. Hartmann

We all look for ways to build our about refinancing out of the FHA loan, financial portfolios and real estate is an thereby removing the expensive monthly excellent way to do just that. But doesn’t premiums.t playing the real estate game require a big Of course, there are other ways to avoid capital investment? At least 20 percent paying MI. One common way is to do down of the purchase price? what is called a piggy-back mortgage. This Private mortgage insurance, often would tie an 80 percent first-trust deed referred to as MI or PMI, is an insurance with a home equity loan or line of credit policy that protects lenders from the risk of between 5-15 percent of the home value. of foreclosure or a default. This means that Rates are higher on seconds but still might if a borrower has only 3.5-5 percent down, save money over paying MI. there are programs that will allow them to Another option is to work with a lender buy a home. When buying or refinancing, who offers what is called lender-paid if a borrower has less than 20 percent mortgage insurance (LPMI) where the cost equity in a home, a lender will likely of mortgage insurance is included in the require mortgage insurance. mortgage interest rate for the life of the With a conventional loan, once you loan. You may end up paying more interest “grow” your equity to 20% either through over the life of the loan but, with the low paying the loan down, sweat equity or interest rates we are currently enjoying, it’s natural market appreciation, you can an option that might just make sense. negotiate to discontinue paying mortgage And my tip of the month, if you have Therese A. Hartmann has 20 insurance. In contrast, an FHA loan — mortgage insurance and especially if you’ve years’ lending experience. She where you can have a low credit score bought a home or refinanced within the is a Licensed Broker, California and only 3.5 percent down — mortgage last three years, check to see if it makes Dept. of Real Estate #01048403, insurance will continue for the life of the sense to refinance. A good loan consultant NMLS # 298291, affiliated with loan. will take the time to see if you, like so many C2 Financial Corporation. For In cases like that, a borrower who others, can save a few hundred dollars a a free consultation, call Therese has built some equity will want to see month. today at (805) 798-2158.

28 OM — November 2019 Give the Gift of Ojai!

Send a subscription to Ojai’s locally owned and operated magazine. — ONLY $24.95 per year! — By nationally award-winning writers and photographers.

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OM — November 2019 29 MY OJAI GARDEN

BY LESLIE LIPPINCOTT HIDLEY

his year, the garden gave us: I’m grateful to so many friends — to flowers, herbs, chard, lemons, Joe Z, may he rest in peace, to Ian, to Tblood oranges, apricots, Vonder, to Eugenia, to Erika, to my nectarines, plums, tomatoes, carrots, blessed daughters-in-law, Sue and lettuce, she tried to give us broccoli, Chris and Erika, and my ex-son-in- but we were too slow, and mostly law Dave. I’m grateful to Father Pat, she gave us beauty in addition to the who received me into the Church — to food and places to sit. And we are Tom, who accepted my application to grateful. Thomas Aquinas College, to my poetry publisher, Randall. There is much to be grateful for if you live in this valley. I used to work I am grateful to and for my dear friend late late into the night years ago, and partner in crime, beloved Peter and walking outside at two-thirty Bellwood, what a guy! What a muse! a.m. to my car to go home I’d say to What an inspiration! myself, “It could be worse. You could be in downtown Detroit.” Though I’m sure people in downtown Detroit have reason for I am grateful for Judy, for Marsha, for Diane, for Winnie, for Ladye Eugenia Stewart gratitude, too. (I hear they have a wonderful art scene there.) blessed Tina, for Ezekiel and the Gardeners, for Dr. Fauvre, for John at the Coffee Connection, for Father Kirk, for Father I am grateful to Chalfant Head, may he rest in peace, who Fernando, for Father Peter, for my forgiving neighbor Jan, designed the beautiful house I used to live in on Country for my friend who doesn’t speak to me, Michael, for John the Club Drive. I am grateful to Rami, who greets me smiling mathematician, for Robert, for my former husband, John — and happy and runs Joe’s Quickstop on the nearby corner even for my other former husband, Lou. on Signal Street and stocks Kools for me. I’m grateful for my sister Cathryn and my brother-in-law, Tom, who help and I have a suggestion: you might want to join me and make a list take care of me. I’m grateful to Kenny — a gift from God — the of your own? It will be endless, too…. world’s best and only lawyer/editor/butler/handyman/ saint. I’m grateful for Miss K and Miss D, the world’s best The hummingbird that came to visit every morning on housemates. that same piece of bamboo branch within five minutes of 8 oclock, the rose on the arbor that makes two colors of rose, I’m grateful for my old friends Asha and Mark, David, the green as the sunsets on the citrus trees….. Vivienne, for Casey, who now lives in my old house on Sunset. I’m grateful to the librarian whose name I don’t Praise God from Whom all blessings flow, remember who would call me on occasion to tell me if one of Praise Him all creatures here below, my children was misbehaving downtown. I’m grateful to and Praise Him Above, ye heavenly host, for my children and grandchildren — all thirteen of them! Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

30 OM — November 2019 OM — November 2019 31 Arid America: Do Ojai Homes Really Need Gutters?

By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela

Rain gutters are the norm in parts of Secondly, even without subterranean also allows you to capture rainwater from the country where it actually rains, but sections, it is a good idea to keep water your roof and direct it to rain barrels should we even bother installing them in away from your home’s foundation where you can store it for later use to Ojai when our rainfall is only about half where it can seep into walls and rot wood rinse recyclables, wash your car or water of the national average? framing or foster mold growth. ornamental landscaping. After all, most homes in Ojai do not A more common reason Ojaians And, as an added bonus, if you install have basements to protect, and it rarely might want to install gutters is to keep gutters for any of the above reasons, you rains enough to cause any real damage to your family and guests drier and more also get the benefit of no longer looking eaves or foundations. While higher-end comfortable. You can choose a full rain at that unattractive line or erosion around homes in the valley tend to have a rain management system that runs along your your house where water once fell from gutter system, there are plenty of homes entire roofline or a partial gutter system your eaves. in all price ranges with little or no rain that directs water away from the most If you already have gutters or de- management in place. important spots, such as your front door, cide to install them, keep in mind that However, while we might not need gut- porch, walkways, and patios. gutters filled with dry twigs, leaves and ters as much as folks in some parts of the Managing the flow of water in these other debris are a fire hazard. An errant country, there are still plenty of reasons to areas allows you and your guests to more spark carried on the wind from a nearby consider them, even in our drier climate. comfortably move between parking areas wildfire can ignite this fuel and put your First off, if any part of your home is and your front door or from your home home at risk. below ground level, you need gutters to to covered outdoor living areas on rainy Therefore, you either need to regularly help keep water away from subterranean days. clean your gutters or install screens that walls. Installing a full or partial gutter system help keep debris out.

32 OM — November 2019 SOLD IN OJAI Ojai Valley Homes Sold Last Month Real estate A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RECENT HOME SALES Sales/Property Management/Notary (across from Ojai Farmers Market)

445 Mahoney Avenue, 1122 Paso Del Robles Oak View, 2 bed, 1 Court, 3 bed, 3 bath, 2,613 FOR RENT OR LEASE bath, 949 Sq. Ft. Listed Sq. Ft. Listed $859,000. $425,000. Sold $315,000 Sold $799,000 DOWNTOWN OJAI 267 Burnham Road, Oak 148 South Rice Road, 4 View, 1 bed, 1 bath, 616 Sq. bed, 3 bath, 2,428 Sq. Ft. Ft. Listed $479,000. Sold Listed $999,000. Sold $450,000 $875,000

927 Santa Ana Boulevard, 1203 Rains Court, 4 Oak View, 2 bed, 1 bath, bed, 3.5 bath, 3,151 Sq. ft. x 1,358 Sq. Ft. Listed Listed $1,100,000. Sold $539,000.Sold $530.000 $1,050,000

804 South La Luna 403 Montana Circle, 2 Avenue, 3 bed, 2 bath, bed, 2 bath, 1,734 sq. Ft. 1,204 Sq. Ft. Listed Listed $1,289,000. Sold $565,000. Sold $565,000 1,180,000

1192 Mariano Drive, 3 bed, 118 Cuyama Road, 3 2 bath, 1,177 Sq. Ft. Listed bed, 3 bath, 1,848 Sq. Ft. $595,000. Sold $570,000 Listed $1,345,000. Sold $1,345,000 173 Padre Juan Avenue, Office space from $250 to $3,000 per month 4 bed, 2 bath, 1,812 Sq. 1095 Encino Drive, Oak Ft. Listed $598,000. Sold View, 5 bed, 4.5 bath, Furnished/Unfurnished $575,000 4,584 Sq. Ft. Listed $1,799,000. Sold 1,750,000 200 square feet to 2,500 square feet 2490 Bonmark Drive, 4 bed, 2 bath, 1,443 Sq. Ft. 4106 Thacher Road, 4 First floor or second floor $709,000. Sold $615,000 bed, 4 bath, 3,915 Sq. Ft. Listed $4,000,000. Sold Month-to-month or long leases available 2340 Burnham Road, 3 $3,957,000 bed, 2 bath, 1,292 Sq. Ft. CALL RON AT 646-4911 Listed $635,000. Sold $620,000

1405 Meadowbrook Road, 4 bed,2 bath, 1,705 Sq. 221East Matilija Street, Ojai Ft. Listed $729,000. Sold 805-646-4911 $680,000 ojaivalleyrealestate.com

OM — November 2019 33 WHO’S WHO IN OJAI REAL ESTATE?

TO BE LISTED HERE, PLEASE CALL ROSS @ 805-207-5094

Ross Dennis Logan Clinton Haugan Falvo Guernsey Hall LIV | Sotheby’s Keller Williams LIV Sotheby’s Logan Hall International Realty International Photography Realty “The Ojai Real Realty 805-798-0337 727 W. Ojai Ave. Estate Guy” loganhallphotos. Ojai, CA 93023 RossFalvo.com 805-798-1998 com C: (805) 760-2092 O: (805) 646-7288 805-207-5094 chaugan@livsothe- bysrealtyca.com DRE# 02019604

Vivienne Larry Marsha Kirk Moody Wilde Kaye Ellison LIV Sotheby’s LIV Sotheby’s Home Mortgage LIV Sotheby’s International International Consultant International Realty Realty Phone: 805- Realty 805-798-1099 Wilde-Wilde. 640-0654 KirkEllison@ vmoody10@ com Cell: 805-746- me.com sbcglobal.net 805-640-5734 9055 805-340-5905 OjaiLifestyle.net marsha.kaye@ homebridge. com

Donna Anne Amanda Erik Sallen Williamson Stanworth Wilde Remax Gold Keller Williams LIV Sotheby’s Inter- LIV Sotheby’s Coast Realtors Realty national Realty International Donna4Re- Anneshomes- Phone: 805-218- Realty [email protected] inojai.com 8117 • E-mail: Wilde-Wilde.com DonnaSallen. 805-320-3314 amandastan- 805-830-3254 com worth77@gmail. 805-798-0516 com Web: Rooney-Stan- worth.com

Patty Kristen Stephen Currier Waltcher Adelman LIV Sotheby’s LIV Sotheby’s Broker Associate International International “Your Family Realty Realty Man Realtor” 805-798-3757 Call me for LIV Sotheby’s your Real Estate thehoffgroup. realestateojai@ com needs. gmail.com 805-340-3774 ojailuxuryrealestate.com 805-640-5563

34 OM — November 2019 Nora Joe Davis Davis Full service LIV Sotheby’s property International management, Realty residential • OjaiValleyEstates. Commercial • com Industrial 805-207-6177 JoeTheRental- Guy.com. 805-574-9774

Dale Kathy Ojai’s Hanson Hoff Ojai Valley LIV Sotheby’s Real Estate International locally owned 211 E. Matilija Realty Street, Ste. J, (805) 290-6907 and operated 206 E. Ojai thehoffgroup. Ave. com 805-646-7229 magazines. [email protected]

By nationally Teresa Don & Cheree Rooney Edwards award-winning LIV Sotheby’s RE/MAX International Gold Coast Realty Ojai’s Top writers and teresarooney- Selling Team homes@ LivinginOjai.com photographers sbcglobal.net 805.340.3192 . 805-340-8928 805.350.7575

Therese A. Hart- Hildegard Tallent #OJAI STRONG, mann is a local loan DISCOVER OJAI STRONGER CalBRE# On the Firing Line with Travis Escalante

J consultant affiliated a 8 n 1 02047013 uary 20 with C2 Financial OJAI Keller Williams MONTHLY Corporation, and is Realty, 109 N. Lifestyle & Visitor Information a Licensed Broker, Blanche St. #100 California BRE Ojai, CA 93023 #01048403. NMLS Tel: 805-798-1872 # 298291. For a email: hildegard. free consultation, [email protected] call Therese today at (805) 798-2158.

Deckert / DePaola Keller Williams Realty Ojai by Design: Ojai’s toy story: Cheryl Deckert, Broker Associate book spotlights famous The barthelemys have architects more in store Ray Deckert, Broker Associate

Maria DePaola, Realtor Associate Cover Sponsored by Oak Grove School “Where the World is Our Classroom • See More On Page 19

[email protected] Visitor Information • Hikes • Events • Activities • Lifestyle Tips & Tactics 805-272-5221 See More AtOM TheOjai.net - December 2017 1

OjaiHub.com 805.798.0177

OM — November 2019 35 OJAI VALLEY INN & SPA Upscale Spanish-style hacienda with contemporary rooms & a spa, pool, golf & several restaurants. One of BLUE IGUANA INN & SUITES EMERALD IGUANA INN Spanish-style inn offering rooms, Upscale inn with lush gardens, pool, California’s premier destinations. suites & cottages with Southwest hot tub, spa services, breakfast, & 905 Country Club Road | (855) 697- décor. Easy access to the Ojai Valley rooms with local artwork. 8780 ojairesort.com Trail. 108 Pauline St | (805) 646-5277 11794 Ventura Ave | (805) 646-5277 emeraldiguana.com OAKRIDGE INN blueiguanainn.com Functional budget hotel offering an outdoor pool, HUMMINGBIRD INN plus complimentary continental CAPRI MOTEL Lodge-like inn offering modern, Hip, quirky option with retro rooms casual rooms, plus free wi-fi break- breakfast & WiFi. and cool pool scene. fast, & an outdoor pool. Across the 780 North Ventura Ave | (805) 649- Free Wi-Fi street from Soule Park Golf Course. 4018 oakridgeinn.com 1180 East Ojai Ave | (805) 646-4305 1208 East Ojai Ave | (805) 646-4365 hotelojai.com hummingbirdinnojai.com OJAI RETREAT Serene, hilltop bed-and-breakfast offering traditional rooms, some CARAVAN OUTPOST LAVENDER INN A beautifully curated garden of Quaint bed-and-breakfast in an with terraces, plus a buffet breakfast Airstreams, located in the heart of 1874 building featuring coun- & yoga. Ojai. Free wi-fi, nightly entertain- try-style rooms, plus a spa, yoga 160 Besant Road | (805) 646-2536 ment, dog friendly, complimentary & cooking classes. In the heart of ojairetreat.com bicycles, camp store. downtown Ojai. Instagram: @caravanoutpost 210 East Matilja St | (805) 646-6635 PEPPER TREE RETREAT & Web: caravanoutpost.com lavenderinn.com EDUCATION CENTER 317 Bryant Street I (805) 836-4891. An oasis for the mind in a peaceful setting where individuals, couples THE OAKS AT OJAI and small groups can relax and CHANTICO INN & SUITES Serene weight-loss retreat offering 3 Relaxed, cozy rooms in a Mission-style ho- meals daily, plus a wellness spa & enjoy the beauty of the valley. tel offering free breakfast & WiFi, plus free fitness classes. 1130 McAndrew Road an outdoor pool. 122 East Ojai Ave | (805) 646-5573 (877) 355-5986 406 West Ojai Ave | (805) 646-8100 oaksspa.com peppertreeretreat.com chanticoinnsuites.com OJAI RANCHO INN SU NIDO INN Borders Ojai Valley Trail, easy stroll Artfully designed, Mission-style inn to downtown. Hip, rustic-style inn with traditional rooms, with stunning offering country-chic rooms, plus free courtyard, an easy walk to down- Wi-fi, a pool & a sauna. town. Free Wi-Fi 615 West Ojai Ave | (805) 646-1434 301 North Montgomery Street ojairanchoinn.com (805) 646-7080 sunidoinn.com

36 OM — November 2019 CHEF RANDY

Savory Pumpkin Soup

I make a similar soup with butternut squash. So, one day last year I thought, maybe I could substitute fresh pumpkin for the squash and have an entirely new soup recipe! I experimented until I got the herbs and spices just right and before you could say Bob’s your uncle, my wife and I were enjoying this savory soup. It is the perfect November belly warmer upper and a wonderful starter for your thanksgiving feast.

INGREDIENTS: SAVORY PUMPKIN SOUP 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 white or yellow onion (chopped) 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced) 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon rubbed sage 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped) 8 cups fresh pumpkin (peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes) 2 cups vegetable broth 1½ tablespoons fresh lime juice 1 cup heavy cream (plus extra for garnish) 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS: In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for five minutes, or until translucent. Add the garlic, turmeric, ginger, curry, and parsley. Cook, stirring, for one Randy Graham is a writer, author, and private chef. He minute more. enjoys cooking for friends and family using ingredients from backyard vegetable and herb gardens. His food Add the pumpkin and vegetable broth. Reduce heat to simmer, is often called “vegetarian comfort food.” He and cover, and cook for 30 minutes, or until the pumpkin has softened his wife, Robin, live in Ojai, California, with their dog, completely. Willow. Robin and Willow are not vegetarians. Transfer the soup (you may need to do this in batches) to a blender and process until smooth. Return the soup to the pot and add the lime juice, cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook until warmed through.

To serve, ladle into bowls and drizzle cream on top. I like to serve Healthy Quick + Easy this with a fresh loaf of crusty rustic bread.

Tip: This recipe makes enough soup for two hungry people. It can easily be doubled if you need more soup!

Autumn Vegetarian

OM — November 2019 37 AGAVE MARIA JIM & ROB’S FRESH GRILL OJAI PIZZA COMPANY Fresh, wholesome Mexican food & drink Mexican-American & regional favorites 331 Ojai Ave. (Downtown Ojai) 106 South Montgomery Street 214 West Ojai Avenue #100 545-7878 (805) 646-6353 (805) 640-1301 TheOnlyGoodPizza.com agavemarias.com jimandrobsojai.com OJAI ROTIE AJ EXPRESS CHINESE EXPRESS JJ’S SPORTS ZONE Rotisserie, sourdough, winebox Gourmet Chinese food The go-to place for food & sports 469 East Ojai Avenue to eat in or to go 820 North Ventura Avenue (805) 798-9227 11566 North Ventura Avenue (805) 649-4655 ojairotie.com (805) 646-1177 jjssportszone.com ajchinesecuisine.com PAPA LENNON’S HIP VEGAN Family owned, original & traditional AZU Vegan sandwiches, salads & bowls Italian cuisine Spanish & Mediterranean comfort food 201 North Montgomery Street 515 West El Roblar Drive 457 East Ojai Avenue hipvegancafe.com (805) 640-7388 (805) 640-7987, azuojai.com (805) 669-6363 papalennons.com

BOCCALI’S HOME KITCHEN OF OJAI RAINBOW BRIDGE Pizza & Pasta, from our farm to our tables Breakfast and lunch in a warm space A community gathering place 3277 Ojai-Santa Paula Road 1103 Maricopa Highway 211 East Matilija Street (805) 646-6116 (805) 646-5346 (805) 646-6623 boccalis.com HomeKitchenofOjai.com rainbowbridgeojai.com

BONNIE LU’S COUNTRY CAFE KNEAD BAKING COMPANY THE RANCH HOUSE Traditional American breakfast & brunch An artisanal family bakery An Ojai culinary destination for more than 328 East Ojai Avenue 469 East Ojai Avenue 60 years (805) 646-0207 (310) 770-3282 102 Besant Road kneadbakingcompany.com (805) 646-2360 CAFE EMPORIUM theranchhouse.com Locals’ favorite breakfast and lunch MANDALA 108 South Montgomery Street Pan-Asian Cuisine SAGE MINDFUL MEALS (805) 646-2723 11400 North Ventura Road The full farm-to-table experience ojaicafeemporium.com (805) 613-3048 217 East Matilija Street, Ojai Phone: (805) 646-9204 CASA DEL LAGO THE NEST sagemindfulmeals.com Ojai’s original Mexican 401 East Ojai Avenue restaurant (805) 798-9035 SAKURA OJAI 715 E Ojai Avenue thenestojai.com A locals’ favorite for (805) 640-1577 Japanese food NO SO VITA 219 East Matilija Street THE DEER LODGE Ojai’s social cafe (805) 646-8777 An Ojai legend since 1932 205 North Signal Street sakuraojai.wix.com 2261 Maricopa Highway (805) 646-1540 (805) 646-4256 nosovita.com SEA FRESH deerlodgeojai.com Serving Ojai for 30 years OAK GRILL @ THE INN 533 East Ojai Avenue FARMER & THE COOK Al fresco dining under (805) 646-7747 The best of organic Ojai vine-covered pergola seafreshseafood.com 339 West El Roblar Drive 905 Country Club Road (805) 640-9608 (805) 646-1111 SOULE PARK GOLF COURSE farmerandcook.com ojairesort.com BAR & GRILL Patio & indoor dining with Ojai’s most FOOD HARMONICS OJAI COFFEE ROASTING COMPANY tranquil views Nutritional Love Salads, sandwiches & superb service 1033 East Ojai Avenue 254 East Ojai Avenue (Arcade) 337 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-5685 (805) 798-9253 (805) 646-4478 soulepark.com

38 OM — November 2019 Visit our Honey Tasting Room 206 East Ojai Avenue, in the Arcade, downtown Ojai Ask us about our Honey Club! www.heavenlyhoneycompany.com | 805-633-9103

OM — November 2019 39 OJAI HIKES 7 WAYS TO GET LOST

By Bret Bradigan Photo by Caitlin Petersen

1. SHELF ROAD Follow it to the gated end, about two miles. Length: 3 miles Directions: From Ojai Avenue, head north on Signal Street to the Gridley Springs, 6 miles to Nordhoff Peak. Difficulty: until it ends. Length: 3.5 miles return trip. Difficulty: Easy. It Moderate to strenuous. Elevation gain: 1,200 feet to the springs. takes about an hour at a brisk pace to walk the length of the trail This trail, at the north end of Gridley Road just to the left before and back between the trailheads at either North Signal Street the gates to Hermitage Ranch, begins with a steep climb, then or Gridley Road. This hike is perfect for visitors or residents to follows an orchard road through avocado trees before making get “ the lay of the land” in Ojai. It is also one of the most “dog a northeastward turn along the rocky western flank of the friendly” walks around. mountainside. The trail winds along the steep flank of the mountain until it enters the cool, dense side canyon wherein lies 2. VENTURA RIVER BOTTOM TRAILS Gridley Springs. Directions: From Highway 150, there’s a trailhead just east of the Ventura River bridge. From South Rice Road, there’s 6. COZY DELL TRAIL a trailhead just north of the intersection with Lomita Road. Directions: Head east on the Maricopa Highway (Highway Also from South Rice, take a right on Meyer Road to the Oso 33) for 3.3 miles. The turnout is on the left, just before and Trailhead. Length: Varies. Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Three across from Friend’s Ranch packing house.. Cross the street to trailheads lead you into the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy’s the trailhead. Length: 1.9 miles to Cozy Dell Creek. Difficulty: 1,600-acre Ventura River Preserve. This three-mile stretch of the Moderate. The trail begins along a seasonal creek and quickly Ventura River offers a spectacular glimpse into old-growth oak climbs about 640 feet in elevation along a well-forested and canopy, splendid vistas from rocky ridgelines, deep swimming wild-flowered canyon to a ridgeline knoll with spectacular holes, lush fern grottoes, rare wildflowers and many miles of views of the Ojai Valley. trails to choose from. 7. MIDDLE FORK OF MATILIJA CANYON 3. PRATT TRAIL Directions: Head east on Highway 33 for about 4.7 miles to Directions: From Ojai Avenue, turn north on Signal Street and Matilija Canyon Road. Follow the road to the end — about drive about 1.2 miles until you see the Forest Service sign on the another two miles. Length: Up to 7 miles (14 miles return). left. The trailhead is a further half-mile. Length: 4.4 miles to Difficulty: Moderate. Follow the trailhead at the end of Matilija Nordhoff Ridge. Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous. The Pratt Canyon Road through the gated property to the west side of the Trail criss-crosses a seasonal stream through the backyards of creek. The trail, more of a one-track road at this point, heads private properties before opening onto a natural bowl formed towards the gates of Blue Heron Ranch, a historic farm with by the slope of Nordhoff Ridge. Follow the signs through about orange and lemon groves. The trail then clambers through two miles of dry and dusty switchbacks until you reach the thickening chaparral scrub for another 1.5 miles until you can ridgeline. From there, it’s another two steep, dusty miles to see tilted slabs of weathered granite and a long, green pool to the Nordhoff Peak, 4,426 feet above sea level. right. The trail descends back into the creekside sycamore and willow forest through a series of campsites, swimming holes 4. GRIDLEY TRAIL and geologic marvels. The shifting and often-concealed trail Directions: From Ojai Avenue, turn on the Gridley Road. eventually leads you to the fabled Three Falls of the Matilija.

40 OM — November 2019 OQ | HIKING MAP

1 SHELF ROAD 3.5mi EASY | Elev. Gain: 200 ft | Overlooks downtown Ojai.

OM — November 2019 41 MY IDEAL With Robin Nahin OJAI DAY Firestick Gallery

When we first moved to Ojai three Entrepreneurship in Ojai is like no stands at the door. This works, too, and we years ago, I thought I’d be a Lady of other. Because we have no corporate start out for the dog park at Soule Park. Leisure. For 37 years, I’d represented businesses, small businesses thrive. And, I’ve got to open the studio at 10 a.m., so unions and managed conflict ... a noble because of this, the whole community we must walk fast. It’s a glorious day, past cause, but so much struggle; so much thrives. In Ojai, even a little pottery studio pixies and oranges, into a huge expanse dispute and frustration! has an equal vote in the Chamber of of lush lawn, gorgeous trees, birds and Now, I’d sold the business and needed Commerce. It’s so democratic! squirrels. Rosebud is in doggie heaven, some peace. Always a hippy in my mind, Firestick is intended to be a cozy home and we get to see our regular friends: I’d been visiting the Ojai Valley since the for local potters, and a learning center for Carlos, the bouncy boxer, who belongs ‘70s, and found it magical and restorative. the many (many!) would-be artists who to Chelsea (who owns Sespe Creek My good friend who lived here calls Ojai stop in to “play with clay.” We celebrate Collective;) Meta, the big white retriever “our little bubble of harmony.” I definitely the human drive to create, and honestly, who “owns” Beth; Pat, and her hound dog, needed some harmony! my ideal day is to “hang” at the studio. I Nellie; Copper, the puppy, who seems So, Byron and I found a place on teaching classes, making my own pieces, doubles in size every week; and Emma, the East End, with 23 fruit trees and a and visit with whoever comes through the Cairn terrier who looks exactly like 1,000-square foot pottery studio. I’d been the door. Visiting, I’ve decided, is a major Toto (and who’s “dad” has a license plate making pottery since the ‘70s, but never occupation in Ojai. that says “Ojai to Oz.”) owned a studio. So, it must have been But Wait! I left out the real start of the Just as I’m realizing it’s 9:30, Byron kismet! day! This is when Rosebud (our 80-pound drives up with the remains of his Ideal Within a month, I was the owner pit/lab “baby”) jumps on my face and Meal: a breakfast burrito from La Fuente. of another small business. We named demands to play. (This is not an IDEAL Rosie and I gratefully gobble these down, the Studio “Firestick,” and jumped way to wake up.) She brings us a ball, then he whisks her off to Dog Friendly, into the world of art, festivals and which she intends to trade for food. It where we hope she’ll spend the day entrepreneurship in Ojai. works. Then she grabs her leash and frolicking.

42 OM — November 2019 Then, it’s back to work for me. Fun dinosaur and unicorn poop. The 6-year- Bookstore, really, just to visit. I love work! People visiting a pottery studio old makes a shape which I say looks like a everything about this place, especially the have lots of time, and are almost always heart. He takes a toothpick and slices it in airstream trailer (the “addendum”) and happy! In fact, they’re often blissful! half, explaining that it’s a broken heart. the lit-up Statue of Liberty. And Celeste They are saturated with our beautiful Now it’s mid-afternoon and I’m Matesevac, the owner, knows everything environment and the beautiful creations starving. Byron makes me a sandwich, about Ojai. of this artistic community. Our studio’s but won’t let me eat it till I wash my Now, back at the studio, I find our previous owner, Larry Carnes, was a hands. I explain, for the 1,000th time, that wonderful manager, Joanne is trying master potter, often working in motifs clay is not toxic; but he won’t budge. So I to teach wheel-throwing to seven of the Chumash people. I believe we wash my hands. gregarious ladies from East L.A. They’re are still blessed with the spirit of the Now I need to deliver some pottery, here for a “bachelorette weekend” and Chumash. which means more visiting. I stop to have brought two bottles of wine and First thing on my ideal day, a mom see friend, Brittany, at Brittany Davis their own music. Joann and I exchange stops in to buy five paintings and a dozen Gallery. She takes a few bowls to put on glances. These will NOT serious potters, beautiful bowls and plates — for her son’s consignment. Then I cross the street to see and they’re going to make a big mess. But dorm room. He’s at one of the pricey my new friend, Yolanda, at Tala Design. they are HAPPY. schools in the hills. “He’s got to learn who takes a few more. Then I leave a I recount the wise old Buddhist adage: to appreciate good art!” she says. And I batch bumble bee mugs for Barbara at “before Enlightenment, chop wood, carry heartily agree! Heavenly Honey, before heading for water. After Enlightenment, chop wood, Next is the kids’ hand-building class, the Ojai Valley Inn. There, I’ll leave 40 carry water,” and we bend to the task. But filled today with a chatty Italian mom, pieces of bisqueware (unglazed pottery) this doesn’t interfere with a very last wish with three angelic boys, who hardly at the artists cottage, for guests to paint on this Most Ideal Day in Ojai: a visit from speak. They start out making dinosaurs with acrylics. a band of beautiful, serene Ojai Cleaning and unicorns, but this soon devolves into My last stop is at BookEnds Fairies ... Beatrice Wood. The famed ceramicist’s FOUNDING FATHERS & MOTHERS (“The Mama of Dada”) greatest work of art While Edward Drummond Libbey is rightfully may well have been her life. The irreverent, regarded among Ojai’s chief benefactors — having avant-garde Wood lived and worked in been behind the buildbing of such Ojai landmarks Ojai for decades until her death in 1998 at as the Ojai Valley Inn, St. Thomas Aquinas age 105. She inspired two classic movies, Church (now the Museum), Post Office Tower and Francois Truffaut’s “Jules et Jim,” and James the Arcade — others have been very influential in Cameron’s “Titanic.” She attributed her shaping Ojai’s identity. Here’s a few: longevity to “chocolate and young men.” Her autobiography was appropriately titled, “I Shock Myself.” Many of her distinctive, Annie Besant. Free-thinker, feminist and noted whimsical, luminous luster-glazed pieces are on display at her Theosophist. Though she only spent a few former home, now the Beatrice Wood Center, in upper Ojai. days in Ojai, she brought Krishnamurti to Ojai, and helped buy hundreds of acres of property Sherman Day Thacher. After coming West in Ojai, (now the sites of Besant Hill School to farm and care for an ailing brother, and, along with A.P. Warrington, the Krotona the Yale-educated Thacher realized that Center) which she called “the smiling vale.” She he was going to need another source of is considered one of the pioneers of introducing income. So he founded The Thacher School Eastern mystical thought to the West, and was an early advocate of in 1887. Now one of the most prestigious India’s independence. and the labor movement. preparatory academies in the country, its founding creed was “teach a boy to ride, J Krishnamurti. The spiritual teacher and writer, came to Ojai in 1922, shoot and tell the truth.” Also, in 1896, sponsored by the Theosophical Society, though his brother William founded “The Ojai,” the country’s oldest he later broke with that group (“The Leaderless amateur tennis tournament. Among Thacher’s more illustrious Path.”) He gave talks to many thousands of students were industrialist, aviator and film producer Howard people each year, in the Star Camps in the oak Hughes and three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and groves west of Ojai (now the site of Oak Grove novelist Thornton Wilder, who wrote his first play while a Thacher School. He once held the Guinness Book of student. World Records for having spoken to the greatest number of people.

Weather in Ojai OJAI QUICK FACTS:

Ave. High (°F) Ave. Low Precip. The name “Ojai” is believed to be derived from the Ventureño Chumash word ‘awhaý, meaning “moon.” In 1837, Fernando Tico received a land Jan 67 36 5.04 grant and established a cattle ranch. Thomas A. Scott, who had financial Feb 67 38 5.24 success with oil and railroads, bought the Ojai Valley in 1864 for oil March 70 41 3.35 exploration. By 1868, Scott, through his agent Thomas Bard, began selling April 74 43 1.22 properties to homesteaders. By 1874, R.G. Surdam plotted out the town he would call Nordhoff, renamed Ojai in 1917. May 78 48 .47

June 83 51 .12 Ojai is about 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 30 miles east July 89 56 .04 of Santa Barbara. The valley is about 10 miles long by 3 miles wide, Aug. 91 55 .005 surrounded by hills and mountains; the rare east-west orientation with a slight southward tilt gives the valley an extraordinary sun exposure; Sept. 87 53 .2 Ojai’s citrus and avocado crops are highly prized. This orientation also Oct. 80 47 .98 gives rise to Ojai as a spiritual destination. Nov. 73 40 1.69 Dec. 66 35 2.95 It was due to the resources and organizing energy of Ohio glass manufacturer Edward Drummond Libbey that Nordhoff was rebuilt and Average Annual Rainfall: 21.3 renamed Ojai, inspired by the City Beautiful Movement. By 1917, with the construction of the Arcade and Post Office Tower, the town took its Record High Year Population: 7,461 present shape. 115° 2018 Valley: (est.) 21,300 The city’s self-styled nickname is “Shangri-La,” based on the story that Record Low Year Households:: 3,176 Ojai was the backdrop (later left on the editing room floor) from the 1937 16° 1990 Elevation: 745 movie as the mystical sanctuary of James Hilton’s novel “Lost Horizon.”

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Cesena, Gabriela - OCTOBER 2019.indd 1 10/26/19 9:44 AM