California 101 Travelers Guide Summer 2019

california 101 Travelers Guide

STAY • PLAY • GETAWAY

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BEACH BUDS Dog-Friendly Beaches

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SLO • SB • VTA COUNTIES

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THE FARMERS’ MARKET TRAIL Top suggestions for each county

106+ acre country retreat with mountain and lake views, horse facilities, and exceptional, custom stone house minutes from shops, restaurants, golf, spas and more.

Price Upon Request LuckyQRanchOjai.com

36-Acre Upper Ojai Ranch with Caretaker’s House, Guest Quarters, Saloon, Rec Building, and Amazing Views.

OjaiParadiseRanch.com $2,999,000

Three-bedroom, two-bathroom with covered porch, fireplace, breakfast bar, gated parking, barn, corral, and shared well.

10808 Creek Road $899,000

3 BR, 2.5 BA Rancho La Vista Estates home with recent upgrades, fireplace, gated RV parking, views, and common area with pool, BBQ, basketball court. 646 Country Drive $734,000

IN ESCROW

4 BR, 2.5 BA on approximately .91 acre in Ojai’s historic Arbolada neighborhood close to downtown shops, restaurants and parks. $1,479,000 210 Del Norte Road

Nora Davis (805) 207-6177 CA BRE#01046067

2016 Realtor® of the year!

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15-Acre East End Citrus Ranch with Guest House & Views 544GorhamRoad.com $2,549,000

We Know Ojai.

The Davis Group nora@ojaivalleyestates.com LIV | Sotheby’s International Realty california101guide.com

Four Bedroom Arbolada Home with Two fireplaces, Separate Office & Saltwater Pool 802ElToroRoad.com $1,749,000

4 BR, 4 BA + 2 powder rooms on 5.43 acres with formal living and dining, butler’s pantry, two walk-in pantries, covered porch, and so much more. 1436 North Montgomery $1,983,000

Enjoy the Ojai lifestyle minutes from downtown in this 5 bedroom, 8 bathroom home with 2 bedroom guest house, pool, horse facilities, solar field and much more. 1577KenewaStreet.com $2,399,000

Remodeled 4 BR + 2.5 BA Farmhouse on 3+ Acres with Guest House, Barn, Solar Panels and Orchard 990LomaDrive.com $1,595,000

3 BR, 3 BA home in Island View with fireplace, formal dining room, Italian tile floors, and double ovens. Within walking to $779,900 shops, restaurants, salons. 1923 South Hill Road

Rare opportunity to buy Gateway Plaza! Oak View shopping center with long-term occupants, large parking lot and great $1,679,000 location.

We’re Lifelong Residents.

The Davis Group nora@ojaivalleyestates.com LIV | Sotheby’s International Realty

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Nora Davis (805) 207-6177 CA BRE#01046067

2016 Realtor® of the year!

ojaivalleyestates.com

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california 101 Travelers Guide

STAY • PLAY • GETAWAY

SUMMER 2019

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California 101 Travelers Guide

SLO • SB • VTA COUNTIES

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Our Vision:

MAGAZINE INQUIRIES (833) 805-0101

If you grew up in the pre-GPS era, chances are you remember navigating with the help of Rand McNally maps. You might also recall the web of blue lines coming off the main highways. These represented smaller highways and roads. On long drives, sticking to the country’s largest arteries might get you to your destination faster … but it’s on those blue highways where the true heart and soul of America can be found.

Published by Blue Highways Productions MANAGING EDITOR Misty Hall CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dennis DeLano PHOTOGRAPHER Logan Hall

It is with this inspiration that Blue Highways Productions and the California 101 Travelers Guide was founded. The goal: to celebrate the people, places, and experiences found on those “blue highways.”

CONTRIBUTORS Bill Warner Tracy Wilson Amelia Fleetwood Bennett Barthelemy Sami Zahringer Liz Brannan Nigel Chisholm Randy Graham

Most travel guides are an afterthought, something you pick up once you’ve reached your destination. California 101 Travelers Guide is not just a visitors guide, but a true California travelers companion.

We understand that it’s not just about arriving, but what you see and experience along the way.

COPY EDITOR Pamela Gaughan ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Mike Dawkins

What’s Inside:

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Sandi Diekhuis Chris Williams Donna Wolfe

Feature stories that capture the spirit and vibe of the stunning Central Coast. Our goal is to encourage travelers to truly experience our area — not just drive through.

OPERATIONS MANAGER Jessica Frakes

Whether you’re a fan of antiques, spas, or backpacking … whether you’re a foodie, artist, or historian … no matter your interests, we want you to get off the freeway and into the communities that make this area so unique.

CONTACT US

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In each issue, you’ll find fun and informative stories that highlight amazing experiences in each of the three counties we cover — Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. Some will go in-depth and off the beaten path, while others simply require a quick detour off the 101 to see some incredible local places. The varied landscapes and distinct cultures of each community along the way truly make this region special.

There’s nowhere quite like Central California — and we’ll help you find the perfect adventure or getaway, in the California 101 Travelers Guide!

EDITORIAL mhall@ca101guide.com PHONE (833) 805-0101 FAX (833) 805-0101 x2 MAILING ADDRESS 1129 Maricopa Hwy. #B-201 Ojai, CA 93023 California 101 Travelers Guide is a quarterly magazine distributed to over 300 business locations throughout Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties.

Total circulation is 30,000 per quarter.

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california 101 Travelers Guide

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STAY • PLAY • GETAWAY

C O N T ESLO N •TSBS• VTA COUNTIES

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photos by

Stephanie Hogue

Beach Buds Dog-Friendly Beaches

By Tracy Wilson

Latitudes Fine Art Gallery

9 Central Coast

Lavender Festival

By Sami Zahringer 20 Central Coast festivals

Soak up the summer

By Sami Zahringer 26

Camp the Central Coast

By Misty Hall

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The Farmers’ Market Trail

By Randy Graham

44 Latitudes Fine Art Gallery

By Amelia Fleetwood 48

Go Modern Boho at Kariella

By Misty Hall

50 Ryan Snow’s Ventura Hot Spots

By Amelia Fleetwood 54

Meditative Minimalism: Ryan Snow

By Amelia Fleetwood

60 The CA Ojai Music Scene By 101 Nigel Chisholm 66 Soak up the suds:

Central Coast craft breweries

By Bill Warner 74

California 101 Golf Trail

Central Coast

84 Casting for fish tales

on the Central Coast

By Liz Brannan 98

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Intro to better lightchasing: photography tips for the Central Coast and beyond

By Bennett Barthelemy

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Bea ch buds

Soak up the sun with your fur babies at these dog-friendly beaches

Photo by Tracy Wilson

Run out that puppy energy at Arroyo Burro Beach.

By Tracy Wilson There’s nothing that beats the joyful exuberance of running down an open beach, splashing in the cool water, and stretching out in the warm sand with your best buddy at your side.

At least that’s how our dog sees it.

A cheerful Aussie-shepherd-heeler mix, Joey has explored beaches from Ventura to Fort Bragg. He’s the perfect size to jump in the kayak, cruise in the back seat of the car, or crawl under a restaurant table as we travel to our favorite haunts along the California coast.

Travel experiences seem more joyful with a dog at your side.

Yet it can be difficult to find beaches that welcome dogs, even 6

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on a leash. And it’s even rarer to find those that allow him to run leash-free.

Luckily, there are several dog-friendly beaches in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties that allow canines to enjoy this pristine stretch of coastline — both on and off leash.

Some of these destinations even offer pet amenities such as waste bags and sudsy wash stations so your car remains (relatively) sand free, and your pup’s skin doesn’t become irritated by saltwater or the occasional tar seep.

There are also numerous restaurants that now provide petfriendly outdoor dining areas (some with dog biscuits) where you can enjoy a morning brunch or evening sunset with stunning views of the Channel Islands in the distance across the Santa Barbara Channel. california101guide.com

wide expanse of open It should come as no beach, and in the offsurprise that coastal season it’s gloriously communities are catering empty except for local to pet owners like me.

Last year, Americans dog owners. This is an spent a record $72 billion ideal venue for a brisk on their pets, according morning walk or a sunset to the American Pet stroll. Leashed dogs are Photo by Tracy Wilson Products Association. welcome before 9 am and Your furry friends can roam leash-free at Arroyo Burro east of the About 68 percent of U.S. after 5 pm. Nearby Silver slough. households, or about 85 Strand Beach is another million families, now own a pet, and about 35 percent of popular spot that allows leashed dogs. Keep an eye out those families travel with their pets annually. for roped-off areas protecting nesting shorebirds. Oxnard advertises itself as “one of California’s most dog-friendly Hotels, airlines, restaurants, and vacation rentals are cities,” and many hotels and restaurants roll out the welcome increasingly trying to fetch pet owners, especially Millennials mat for canines. Check out visitoxnard.com for details. who are delaying parenthood but tend to treat their pampered pets like children.

To access Hollywood Beach from Highway 101, take S. Victoria Avenue to W. Channel Islands Boulevard to Harbor So, where to take those “fur Boulevard. Turn onto babies”? Here are a few Ocean Drive and park of the best dog-friendly near the Rudder Room (an destinations, from south to unpretentious local dive bar) north, along the Highway and walk south to Hollywood 101 corridor. Be sure to Beach. pack the important beach essentials: sunscreen, water • Surfer’s Point at and dog bowl, towel, waste Promenade Park, Ventura, pick-up bags (although Ventura County most beaches have these The one-acre oceanfront available), and a shade park extends from the west umbrella if you plan to at Surfer’s Point and east lounge a while. to the historic Ventura Pier.

Be mindful of your dog Leashed dogs are allowed etiquette: Pick up after on city beaches, which can your pooch; keep your be rocky at high tide. The dog leashed and even at paved boardwalk next to leash-free beaches be the beach is a popular spot careful not to let him or her for walkers, runners, and disturb migrating or nesting skateboarders, and it offers shorebirds. These steps will a great vantage point to ensure that the privilege of watch surfers riding waves enjoying these dog-friendly at Surfer’s Point. Be advised beaches continues for all that dogs are not allowed on of us. the nearby state beaches, and the estuary at the • Hollywood Beach, mouth of the Ventura River Oxnard, Ventura County is a sensitive habitat area Photo by Kaine Miranda for birds. There are several Hollywood Beach offers a Enjoy the sunset on Pierpont Beach in Ventura. california101guide.com

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restaurants along the boardwalk. Stop at Beach House Tacos to enjoy a sunset, yummy tacos, and a cold beverage.

Promenade Park is located on Harbor Boulevard at Figueroa Street.

• Lookout Park, Summerland, Santa Barbara County

a wide beach below the Douglas Family Preserve. This friendly beach with spectacular views is hugely popular with pet owners. Dogs of all sizes often outnumber people during peak times of the day, running with glee and playing in the surf. Steer clear of this spot if your dog is ill behaved off-leash or is anxious around other rambunctious dogs.

Lookout Park on the bluff above Summerland Beach provides free parking, Arroyo Burro Beach County restrooms, grassy areas, and Park is located on Cliff Drive a dog-cleaning station. This in Santa Barbara. From the destination is popular for parking area, follow the locals and tourists alike for small wooden boardwalk to the beach. Turn left at its easy access, mild surf, and the lifeguard station and wide, smooth sandy beaches. cross the slough to access It’s also a relatively uncrowded Photo by Tracy Wilson the off-leash area, or turn beach — especially Soak up some sun in Summerland. right to access the on-leash in winter and spring, which area directly below The are ideal times to visit Santa Boathouse restaurant.

Although dogs are not allowed at Barbara County. On the negative side, there can be this outstanding waterfront restaurant, there is a tie-up occasional strong odors at Summerland Beach from the oil area outside the patio (or put your Tesla on dog mode for seeps off the coast. On the positive side, there are often dinner). opportunities to take your well-behaved dog off-leash if there aren’t many people around.

• Olde Port Beach, Avila Beach, San Luis Obispo County After walking the beach, head to the pet-friendly Summerland Beach Café, which provides water bowls and dog biscuits to canine guests on the outdoor patio.

From Highway 101, exit at Summerland and follow the signage to town. To access Lookout Park, turn onto Evans Drive and cross the railroad tracks.

• Arroyo Burro Beach County Park, Santa Barbara County Arroyo Burro Beach (known by the locals as Hendry’s Beach) allows dogs to run off-leash, openly and legally. Maintained

by Santa Barbara County, the off-leash section begins east of the slough and stretches along

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Olde Port Beach is located just off Avila Beach Drive, about a mile west of downtown Avila Beach. This long, skinny beach is another destination where you can let your dog run off-leash as long as it is well behaved. The beach is great for a walk along the shoreline, which is usually uncrowded on this stretch between the town and the pier. Continue west and you’ll find Fisherman’s Beach, another small beach where dogs are allowed. Just past the RV campground you’ll see the pier, which is a great spot to watch sea otters playing in the bay. Back in Avila Beach, head to the waterfront bistro Blue Moon Over Avila to enjoy a glass of wine on the outdoor patio with your pup at your side.

s d ch bu california101guide.com

Central Coast Lavender Festival promises a fun and fragrant good time

by Sami Zahringer When you grow an herb that has been utilized in Ancient Egyptian mummification, used as an Elizabethan substitute for bathing, and as a lemonade flavoring, you know you have a useful plant. In the language of flowers, lavender can mean devotion, luck, success, happiness, and it can be used as a perfume, a flavor, and medicine. As the organizers of this festival, now in its 11th year, say, “Using essential oils enables us to connect to the living processes of earth and thereby rejuvenate, balance, and nourish our mind, body, emotions, and spirit.”

Celebrate this ancient, versatile herb and its many uses at the 11th annual Central Coast Lavender Festival on July 6 from 10 am to 5 pm. Set in the Paso Robles Downtown City Park, this free event highlights all things lavender.

Take in a seminar on distilling lavender; hear about the philosophies and processes used on Paso Robles area

california101guide.com

lavender farms; learn from a Cal Poly expert the importance of lavender for growing healthy bee populations; and of course, shop till you drop! There really is something for everyone.

Experiment in the kitchen with new lavender-infused tastes — try honey, tea, sugar, and spice blends, or try something different (ask how you can use it on the barbecue!).

Be sure to look for other goodies, like essential oils, soaps, lotions, and bath bombs, as well as lavender-inspired art, jewelry, clothing, and trinkets. And don’t

forget to pick up a fresh bouquet (and maybe even a lavender crown!) on your way out! There will be music, vendors, food, refreshments, displays, and children’s activities to keep the day full and extra fun.

Paso Robles Downtown City Park is located at the corner of Spring Street and 12th Street, in the city of Paso Robles. For more information, visit centralcoastlavender.com or call (805) 238-4103.

Can’t get enough of lavender? Plan ahead and stop in Ojai on June 29 for the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival! Visit ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org for details.

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Paso Robles is more than just a place – it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Whether planning your next California adventure, wine country tasting tour, or downtown shopping date, there’s something for everyone in Paso Robles. Downtown Paso Robles is home to a diverse array of restaurants, boutique shops, hotels, wine tasting, antique shops, and much more!

Things to do in downtown Paso Robles

Where Everybody Comes Together PasoRoblesDowntown.org

Experiencing downtown Paso Robles is as simple as finding out what interests you. In fact, visitors have been coming to Paso Robles for centuries in search of the area’s sulphur hot springs, which, among other notable attractions, continue to beckon visitors to the heart of central California.

Shopping, sightseeing historic landmarks, fine dining, wine tasting, craft beers, entertainment, art galleries — these are just a few of the things to do and see in downtown Paso Robles. Downtown Paso Robles offers a variety of unique shops, restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, gift stores and one-ofa-kind experiences for your next venture downtown.

Shop, dine, wine & stay

If you’re pondering things to do in downtown Paso Robles, look no further than the shops, restaurants, boutiques, wine tasting bars, pubs, and variety of venues downtown has to offer. Jump start your experience in the heart of downtown at Downtown City Park, a central square anchored by the historic Carnegie Library. Horseshoe pits, a gazebo, picnic tables, a playground and newly renovated bathroom facilities are among the park’s many amenities, where you’ll also find plenty of shade under the trees!

Shop or dine at the array of boutique shops and restaurants, all within easy walking distance of free parking. Look for the bright lights and catch a flick at Park Cinemas on Pine Street with movies showing for the entire family. Events abound throughout the calendar year, and there’s always something happening in downtown Paso Robles. Each summer, Paso Robles plays host to the California Mid-State Fair, a popular attraction and tradition that brings together fair-goers from across the state. Events abound throughout the calendar year with guaranteed fun for the entire family.

Special downtown Paso Robles events Concerts in the Park June 6, 13, 20 & 27: July 11 and 18; August 1, 8, and 15.

11th Annual Lavender Festival July 6, 2019 from 10 am to 5 pm Downtown City Park.

Free Pancake Breakfast July 25 from 7:30 to 10:30 am Downtown City Park.

Trading Day & Kids’ Flea Market August 24, 9 am to 3 pm Downtown City Park.

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American Barn & H ’ Wood R

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Old Reclaimed Barn Wood • Barn Doors • Beams and More We supply homeowners and professionals with a large variety of old, authentic wood

3460 La Cruz Way, Paso Robles 805-610-7838 or 805-610-7839

americanbarnandwood.com • info@ americanbarnandwood.com

Let us surprise and delight you with the best this region has to offer!

1313 Park Street Paso Robles 805.226.5888 thomashillorganics.com

BAILEYANA, TANGENT & TRUE MYTH 5828 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo, CA (805) 269-8200 nivenfamilywines.com/taste Reservations required for 8 or more OPEN DAILY 10:00am - 5:00pm In our Tasting Room, a re-purposed Schoolhouse built in 1909, taste through a flight of five featured wines or buy a glass or bottle from over 30 different white, red, sparkling and dessert wines. Browse our enticing shop stocked with gourmet foods and charming gifts, or picnic outside and play boccie ball with views of the vines across the valley to the mountains. california101guide.com

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Cambria Garden Shed (805) 927-7654 CambriaGardenShed.com Grow Nursery (805) 924-1340 GrowNursery.com Lily’s Coffee House (805)927-7259 Ocean Heir (805) 909-9022 OceanHeirEstateCompany.com

2024 Main Street • East Village Cambria OPEN 10 - 5 daily, 10 - 6 on Fri. & Sat.

Welcome to Cambria, your Central California vacation destination! Cambria is located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, just four miles south of the famous historic landmark Hearst Castle.

Nestled among towering pines and the shimmering sea on the Central Coast, Cambria is a picturesque village that unfolds along scenic Highway 1. Free of chain stores and brimming with charm, Cambria invites you to exit the beaten path and explore one of the state’s truly unique destinations.

Some of the most popular annual events are the Cambria Art and Wine Festival, the Cambria Chili Cook-Off & Classic Car Show, the Cambria Western Dance Jamboree, and the Cambria Festival of the Trees. Description provided by cambriachamber.org

Simplistic Home (559) 970-5654 SimplisticHome.com Twin Coyotes Winery GOOD (805) 927-9800 THINGS COME TwinCoyotes.com IN LITTLE And More!

SHEDS

815 Main Street, Cambria CA 93428 ph. 805.203.5950 www.patrickgallery.com www.facebook.com/workingartiststudio 12

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Make butter and see Pat Benatar all in the same day at the Mid-State Fair

Miranda Lambert

Pat Benatar & Neil Geraldo

Melissa Etheridge

By Sami Zahringer

The California Mid-State Fair rolls back through — appropriately — the Central Coast July 17 to 28. This giant annual fair takes place in Paso Robles for 11 days at the end of July each year. Originally called the San Luis Obispo County Fair, the Mid-State is now almost 75 years old and has gained a reputation for attracting some of the biggest names in music to its Main Grandstand Arena.

This year’s event has something for everyone, including a stellar lineup of performers in their Bud Light Concert Series: • July 17, Miranda Lambert • July 18, Pat Benatar & Neil Geraldo with Melissa Etheridge • July 19, Billy Idol • July 20, Cardi B • July 21, Blake Shelton • July 22, Why Don’t We • July 23, Lynyrd Skynyrd • July 24, Zac Brown Band

s, a full For ticket events line-up of , visit and more air.com midstatef

• July 25, Old Dominion

Why Don’t We

Old Dominion california101guide.com

Billy Idol

Blake Shelton

The Mid-State is a traditional state fair that also showcases livestock and a horse show. Activities include a barn dance with KJUG 98.1FM, a diaper dash, a petting zoo, robotics, tractor races, veggie art, pony rides, a strongest man and woman demonstration, youth dancers, and cake decorating, amongst a host of other odd and awesome events and activities. The exhibit halls include works of photography, fine arts, farm arts, wine-making and beerbrewing, floriculture, an industrial arts display, and a tractor repair display.

Of course, there’s also a huge fair carnival with all sorts of rides including The Shocker, The Giant Wheel, Pharaoh’s Fury, bumper cars, Baja Buggies, House of Zombies, and countless more. And if you like to get wet there’s The Big Splash, The Shock Wave, and Raging River Canoes. And of course, there’s all that big, bad, bold, beastly, beautiful fair food!

Stuff to know before you go: Some of the concerts require an additional ticket, while others are included in the original cost of admission; be sure to check the website before you head out! Hours are noon to midnight daily. Children ages 5 and under are free at the gate but must have a ticket for all Entertainment Events held in the Chumash Grandstand Arena. Parking is limited; consider using public transit or other transportation.

Lynyrd Skynyrd

Smashmouth

Cardi B

Zac Brown Band

Berlin

Luis Coronel Summer 2019

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WINE TASTING ROOM | OPEN DAILY 10AM - 5PM

Lloyd’s Lookout at Calcareous 3430 Peachy Canyon Road Paso Robles, CA 93446 calcareous.com

“Let The Soil Speak!” Calcareous Estate wines are produced from grapes grown at one of our 3 vineyards. Due to farming practices and the nature of the land, these vineyards produce tiny yields, resulting in fruit of profound depth and sense of place. Utmost care is taken during harvest and cellaring to capture the true essence of the land. These techniques include small lot fermentations, extended maceration, no use of chemical fining, premium cooperages, and minimum racking as the wine ages. These are truly hand-made wines of distinctive character.

Minutes to 30+ wineries of Arroyo Grande & Edna Valleys Borders San Luis Obispo & Pismo!

Hacienda Felise

Wine Country Boutique Inn

Perfect for romantic retreats or girlfriend getaways.

Offering 3 serene lodging options on Arroyo Grande estate, all centered around Spanish courtyards for enjoying morning coffee, stellar sunsets over wine, yoga, or meditation, with soothing sounds of nature.

Each uniquely decorated accommodation sleeps 2. Rent individually or combine for groups up to 6.

Casa de los Sueños: 650 sqft detached casita - kitchen, living area, cozy fireplace, laundry, private deck Corazón Sagrado & Catrina Suites: private entrances, ensuite bathrooms, in-room tea/coffee bars

Inquire about our Romance Package.

Book Now and mention this ad for a complimentary bottle of local wine!

HaciendaFelise.com info@HaciendaFelise.com

Minutes to beaches, hiking, dining, old mission trail & historic Village of Arroyo Grande

Haven’t used Airbnb yet? EMAIL US prior to registering for a 15% discount code to use anywhere 14

Summer 2019

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We are a fine art gallery in downtown Pismo Beach offering an affordable selection of high-quality original art by locally and nationally renowned artists.

Our diverse range of styles from representational to abstract paintings, sculpture, and photography will delight you.

We also stock a selection of Rhythm musical clocks.

Friendly staff is happy to help you define your art preferences.

We provide easy layaway on terms that fit your budget.

Like us on Facebook /Seaside Gallery/Pismo.

Open 7 days weekly, 362 days a year, from 10 am to 5 pm and 11 am to 5 pm on Sundays.

805-773-8057

580 Cypress Street, Pismo Beach, CA 93449 www.theseasidegallery.com

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11am - 5pm Sunday - Thursday | 11am - 6pm Friday & Saturday 795 West Highway 246 | Buellton, CA 93427 (805) 686-1208 ext. 206 | club@brickbarnwineestate.com

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The Wildling Museum of Art and Nature is a surprisingly large and modern facility in the quaint village of Solvang.

The building echoes the Danish nature of the town, but the inside is anything but. Walk in the front lobby and you will see an open modern space, a gift shop in front of you and three floors of art exhibitions.

The first floor gallery features large exhibitions which rotate two to three times annually.

This summer and fall it features a stunningly diverse juried show celebrating California’s national parks, monuments and recreation areas. This is the second time they have offered a juried competition highlighting this theme. Over 300 entries were received, vying for $4000 in prizes. The resulting show is full of high quality wallhung art showcasing natural treasures like Yosemite, Joshua Tree, the Redwoods, Death Valley, Carrizo Plain and many more locales. You will enjoy a feast of watercolors, oil paintings, mixed media, photography, block prints and more—don’t miss this show if you love to travel our wonderful state.

Through early November, the Valley Oak gallery on the second floor features selections from their permanent collection.

The museum’s small art collection is quite diverse, ranging from historic paintings by early landscape artist John Fery to contemporary photography by regional artists. The gallery also features a large painted wall mural of a Valley oak habitat, which showcases many of the native species to be found in the Santa Ynez Valley, and includes a fun nature journaling activity for families to enjoy.

In the classroom on the third floor you will find rotating community art shows by local school children, seniors in retirement facilities as well as local art groups like this fall’s Santa Barbara Printmakers.

There are always two to three hands-on art activities for the family to enjoy in the classroom, too.

If you love nature and art, don’t miss this gem of a museum in Solvang! The whole family will enjoy the experience, and you might find a unique souvenir to take home from their distinctive gift shop.

Visit California’s Only Nature Art Museum!

* Three art galleries * Hands-on activities for all ages * Unique gift shop * Local artists featured * Classes, lectures & film Screenings 805-688-1082 info@wildlingmuseum.org HOURS Weekdays: 11am - 5pm Weekends: 10am - 5pm

Alan Sonneman (left), Ivan Hernandez (top rt), Mariah Reading (bottom rt)

Closed Tuesdays, Major Holidays

ADMISSION Members . . . . . . . . FREE Adults . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5 Kids 17 & Under . . FREE Active Military ID . . FREE 3rd Wed . of Month . FREE

This summer and fall featuring:

Celebrating California’s National Lands Featuring over 60 original artworks of California’s National Parks, Monuments, Seashores and more!

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SOAK UP THE SUMMER AT THESE CENTRAL COAST FESTIVALS There’s something glorious about a festival. People from all walks of life gather together to honor traditions, or celebrate regional flavors and products, or just to revel in the sheer, sometimes quirky, joy of their passions. Festivals are part of human civilization the world over and, since time immemorial, they have taken us out of the mundane and given us the spectacle, color, music, and variety we crave in life. We mingle and eat and browse and eat and marvel and eat and eat and eat! In our bounteous region, local foods and specialties are some of the things we celebrate most, but summer festival season is also the best time of the year to soak up the rich diversity of activities and culture the area has to offer.

To get you enthused and to prove that there really is a festival for everyone, we at the California 101 Travelers Guide have rounded up a selection of some of the most interesting local fairs and festivals this summer. So grab your sunhat, your loved ones, and your GPS, and get on the road for all the fun!

By Sami Zahringer JULY

July 6 • Central Coast Lavender Festival 10 am to 5 pm City Park in downtown Paso Robles Free For more information, see our story on pg. 9 in the San Luis Obispo section, or visit centralcoastlavender.com July 10 to 14 • Santa Barbara County Fair Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S Thornburg St., Santa Maria

created by Billboard sensation Ranky Tanky around stories and culture emanating from South Carolina’s Lowcountry.

The Rastrelli Cello Quartet ends the festival with a dazzling crossover program ranging from Brahms to the Beatles and almost sure to win the ovations Rastrelli audiences are known for. Tickets at venturamusicfestival.org or call 805-648-3146. Great music in a coastal beach town.

July 13 and 14 • Santa Barbara French Festival

For more information, see our story on pg. 31in the San Luis Obispo County section, and visit santamariafairpark.com for tickets, parking, and additional information.

July 11 to 21 • Ventura Music Festival Legendary vocal groups The Manhattan Transfer and Take 6 come together in a unique “Summit” to headline the 25th edition of this mixed genre festival which also features classical guitar great Christopher Parkening in an intimate recital with baritone Jubilant Sykes, the young Calidore String Quartet, winners of the decade’s biggest prizes for chamber music; the band Incendio in a free community concert of highoctane Latin guitars; jazz phenom Joey Alexander who at 15 is deemed “a bonafide star and the brightest light in jazz piano;” soulful jazz, blues-y gospel, and joyful dance tunes Summer 2019

11 am to 7 pm Santa Barbara’s Oak Park, 300 W Alamar Ave. and 600 W Junipero Free A celebration of Bastille Day in Santa Barbara. The motto is: Joing le plaisir et être le Plaisir (Join the fun and be the fun!)

One of Santa Barbara’s favorite festivals, the SB French Festival celebrates the exciting, rich, and entertaining French culture. It’s a dance festival, a music festival, an california101guide.com

For two days, Santa Barbara celebrates its nickname “the American Riviera,” as French Festivities transform Oak Park.

The stages will be filled with dance and music from more than 30 different acts. Check out festival favorites: the Edith Piaf and Django Reinhardt tributes, and the Femme Fatales Drag Revue. You will see Can-Can and French Polynesian dancers, West African Belly dancing, French arias, and The Accordion International Music Society of Santa Barbara.

admission tickets for up to eight guests, dedicated VIP entry lane into the festival, a private VIP cabana with views of the main stage, VIP cabana laminate, VIP beer and wine service, a case of beer, water, and a bottle of wine or champagne per day, plus a snack tray. Outside alcohol is not permitted.

For tickets and more information, visit surfrodeo.org July 17 to 28 • California Mid-State Fair

Perhaps you’d like to engage your friends at the King’s Court in a game of Pétanque. (The Guide de St. Marie will be in residence throughout the Festival portraying the Court of Henri III circa 1580s.) Then maybe relax with some French wine, soda, or beer while you enjoy a demonstration of period armored combat. Join the French Conversation Booth, or shop for French tablecloths.

This is a free family event, with dogs more than welcome.

Children can take part in the droid scavenger hunt, have their faces painted, or meet the participants of the Canine Cavalcade, which is a parade of visitors — you! — and their dogs in a celebration of man’s best friend. There are more than 60 vendors selling all things French.

(Yes, including berets!)

Admission and entertainment on all 3 stages is free. For more information visit frenchfestival.com • Ventura Surf Rodeo and Street Fair 8 am to 8 pm each day Ventura Pier $40 and up Head over to the Ventura Surf Rodeo, where the music meets the sand! Billing itself as the biggest beach party on the West Coast, Surf Rodeo is a 2-day festival of surfing and music at Ventura Pier, featuring more than 30 bands, surf competitions for all ages, a cowgirl and cowboy bikini contest, the world’s largest beach cornhole tournament, beer gardens on the sand, a bucking mechanical bull, a food court, and lots of vendors.

Surf Rodeo prides itself on being a platform for worldrenowned surfers, musicians, and artists. This is a kid-friendly event and there is a Kids Corral to keep your little ones happy. Ticket sales for this event support Paw Works and a variety of local organizations serving youth.

Tickets are $40 for a Saturday or a Sunday pass, and $55 for a weekend pass. A VIP ticket for $2,500 gets you california101guide.com

2198 Riverside Ave, Paso Robles For more tickets and information, see our story on pg. 13 in the San Luis Obispo County section, and see midstatefair.com.

July 19 • Funk Zone Art Walk 5 to 8 pm Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone Free The Arts Fund of Santa Barbara started the Funk Zone Art Walk five years ago to highlight the neighborhood’s vibrant artistic community and support local businesses. The Funk Zone Art Walk occurs on the third Friday of every other month. On July 19, more than a dozen artist studios, galleries, and art-centric venues will open their doors to the public, making it the ideal opportunity to casually experience the Funk Zone’s cultural explosion of recent years.

At any given venue, visitors can expect events such as exhibition openings, artist receptions, open studios, insightful art lectures or demonstrations, live music and performances, pop-up artist booths, beer and wine tastings, and various other interactive activities. This community event regularly hosts hundreds of guests and supports local artists, galleries and businesses.

Visit funkzone.net to view more details about past and upcoming walks, see a map of the Funk Zone and a Directory of the Artists and Vendors.

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arts & crafts festival and, of course, a food festival. Enjoy great food, wine, mimosas, crepes, delicious pastries, music, and dance.

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July 20 & 21 • Central Coast Renaissance Festival

10am - 6pm Laguna Lake Park, Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo Cost: $15 - $20 The 35th annual festival features four stages of entertainment including authentic music, dance, plays, comedy skits, acrobatics, a pirate bird show and free-flying falconry.

A main attraction is full force armored combat as seen on The History Channel’s “Knight Fight.” Twice daily contests include one-on-one single combat, as well as brutal team battles of 5 vs 5, which will be contested until one team is driven from the field.

Various times and locations Ticket prices vary Festival Mozaic is an annual celebration of music featuring renowned musicians from all over the world, and takes place at a variety of locations on California’s beautiful Central Coast in San Luis Obispo County. The 49-year-old festival consists of chamber music concerts, orchestra performances, and crossover music from contemporary and experimental artists with an emphasis on making the art of music accessible to all. There are educational events, and free community events including mini-concerts, family concerts, master classes, lectures, and open rehearsals. In the signature Notable Encounters series, festival musicians present interactive performance demonstrations of chamber music “in interesting spaces,” paired with gourmet Central Coast food and wine.

This year, led by music director and violinist Scott Yoo, the theme of the festival is “Music of the Old World,” exploring the influence of Spanish and Middle Eastern musical traditions on Western classical music. The Festival musicians hail from the top classical music ensembles in the country including the Cleveland Orchestra, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, and many others.

The family friendly event includes face painting, games, a magic show and a pirate ship where kids can attend Buccaneer Boot Camp to learn swashbuckling with balloon swords. Sunday is “Pirate Day” with a treasure hunt. A costume contest for kids is held both days and every entry gets a prize.

Also worth noting about this event is that the cover art for the brochures features the work of Joanne Beaule Ruggles.

Professor Emeritus Ruggles taught studio art for 30 years at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, winning the university’s Distinguished Research Award in 2004.

Shoppers love the unique artisan marketplace where a wide variety of delicious food and drink will keep everyone refreshed.

There are various venues for the Festival Mozaic, but the main ones are: Serra Chapel, Shandon; The Harold J. Miossi Cultural & Performing Arts Center at Cuesta College; and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

Parking on site is $8 per car, but reduced to $5 if there are four or more in a vehicle, so carpooling is rewarded. No outside alcohol or pets are allowed.

Tickets & Information at ccrenfaire.com July 24 to Aug. 24 • Festival Mozaic

Festival all-pass tickets are not offered, but packages are available. For detailed information on individual ticketing options and the schedule, visit festivalmozaic.com, or call (805) 781-3009 or (877) 881-8899. The website has an excellent and comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions page, which is well worth checking out before you go: festivalmozaic.com/festival-faqs

July 27 and 28 • Santa Barbara Greek Festival 11 am to 7 pm Oak Park area of Mission Creek at 600 W Junipero Street, Santa Barbara Free The popular Greek Festival, now in its 45th year, is the oldest running festival in Santa Barbara and regularly attracts about 5,000 people over the two days in July.

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and older.

For tickets, go to HarmonyWineAndBeerFestival.com or call (805) 927-1625 Aug. 10 • Olallieberry Festival

For more details, visit santabarbaragreekfestival.org July 31 to Aug. 11 • Ventura County Fair Seaside Park, Ventura For tickets and more information, see our story on pg. 53 in the Ventura County section, and visit venturacountyfair.org AUGUST

Aug. 3 • Harmony Wine and Beer Festival

11 am to 4 pm Cambria Historical Society, 2251 Center St., Cambria Free Experience the Olallieberry — “King of the Blackberries!” This family-friendly event celebrates Cambria’s famous berry.

Local vendors will offer olallieberry treats, drinks, local wine and beer, crafts, and art. There will be live music, a dessert contest and kids’ activities.

1 to 4:30 pm 2177 Old Creamery Road, Harmony $49 and $59 Following a runaway success with its first festival last year, which attracted upwards of 600 hungry, thirsty people to the tiny town, organizers planned this year to be even bigger and better with more food vendors, a longer event, and expanded parking. Ticket holders get unlimited pours from 18 vendors as they taste their way down quaint Harmony’s only street, lined with local wineries and breweries, food trucks, and the Harmony Valley Creamery Scoop Truck.

From 1:30 pm onwards, The Chad Land Band will keep things lively with tunes in a Classic/Southern Rock and Blues vibe.

Funds raised from ticket sales will support Infant Essentials, a local nonprofit organization that provides infant necessities to homeless and low-income infants, from 0 to 3 years old, in San Luis Obispo County. Infant Essentials works closely with organizations like The Family Care Network, Women’s Shelter, CAPSLO and SLOCOE. Early bird pricing is $49 per person until June 15. After June 15, tickets are $59 per person. This event is for adults 21 california101guide.com

Contact Cambria Chamber of Commerce at (805) 927-3624 or visit cambriaolallieberryfestival.com for more details.

Aug. 24 • Avila Apple Festival

All day Downtown Avila Beach Free For the sixth year, Avila Valley growers will gather to show off their wares. Sample the fruits of their labors with an apple-themed dinner, tastings of the many apple varietals and apple wines, and both live and silent auctions. What a lovely, crisply delicious way to welcome in the fall!

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The festival aims to evoke the sights, sounds and tastes that define the traditional Greek way of life, and it is true — everything is better with feta! In addition to the mouthwatering Greek delicacies on the menu, there will be traditional Greek folk dancers, Greek music, Greek cooking demonstrations, and don’t forget to enter the raffle for two free tickets to Athens! Opa!

Visit avilaapplefestival.com for more information.

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Sept. 7 • Avocado and Margarita Street Festival

and hand-crafted cocktails. Make a weekend of it!

Accommodation is good in Morro Bay, but rooms get booked up early, so check in advance.

Sept. 14 and 15 • Santa Barbara Sea Glass & Ocean Arts Festival

10 am to 7 pm Morro Bay’s Embarcadero at 714 Embarcadero Dr., Morro Bay $5 and up (kids 10 and under are free) The Avocado and Margarita Street Festival website sports the following quote: “Quite possibly the best day of my entire life!!!” - Signed, Everyone, Ever.

And that might say it all, but there’s more! The event is a celebration featuring the California Central Coast’s love for wonderful flavors and tasty culinary dishes. It supports many local organizations, and the goal is to shine a spotlight on the region’s amazing, fresh-off-the-tree variety of California avocado, while providing visitors with highquality premium margaritas, street-faire entertainment, live music, specialty foods and the highly sought-after Grove, where chefs indulge guests in step-above-the-rest mouthwatering and tantalizing avocado-themed dishes.

All of this is under sunny skies on the picturesque Morro Bay waterfront. There is very little here not to love (unless you are a dog; they’re not allowed for safety reasons).

This is a family-friendly festival with fun events like the best sombrero competition, magic shows, a mini-avocado toss, and the chance to win a year’s supply of California avocados.

Kids 10-years-and-under are free and there is a “Grom Zone” to keep them occupied. Check out their website for more information and schedule of events at avomargfest.com.

For a more intimate experience, try “Taste of The Grove” Sept. 8, at The Packing Shed in Morro Bay. A variety of avocado-themed dishes are paired with wine, beer,

Saturday 10 am to 5 pm; Sunday till 4 pm Earl Warren Showgrounds, 3400 Calle Real, Santa Barbara $5 to $15 Now in its fifth year, this festival is a celebration of oceaninspired art and jewelry. For jewelry-lovers this is a treat, but it’s more than just a vehicle to showcase the work of around 45 local sea-glass artists. The festival will also present talks on marine pollution, and hold workshops on sea-glass identification, sun-dyeing, and wire-wrapping techniques, so budding jewelry makers can begin to explore for themselves the serendipitous art of found objects.

True to the event’s ethos of sustainability, minimizing plastic use, and keeping California clean and beautiful, a portion of all tickets bought this year will go to The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, and all food utensils will be reusable and recyclable.

For details visit santabarbaraseaglassandoceanartsfestival.com

Sept. 28 and 29 • ArtWalk Ventura 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday & Noon-5 p.m. Sunday If you love art, you won’t want to miss ArtWalk Ventura 2019.

ArtWalk Ventura is a totally fun, virtually free, self-guided tour of dozens of galleries, studios and pop-up venues in Ventura’s historic Downtown and Westside Cultural District.

ArtWalk is one of Ventura’s signature events, drawing thousands each year. It is now being run by an all-volunteer group, determined to keep it fresh and festive and focused on our authentic cultural community.

This summer, then, why not take a tour of the tremendously rich and diverse celebrations of culture and life in the area?

There’s more than enough to keep the whole family busy while exploring the charming backwaters, small towns, and big cities of our beautiful region. Find a festival and get moving!

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SEPTEMBER

You are invited to the Gaviota Coast Conservancy special event on Saturday, September 21 in the afternoon at Montecito’s gorgeous Music Academy of the West Gaviota Coast Conservancy (GCC) is a Santa Barbara based conservation organization that has been actively protecting 76 miles of coast stretching from Goleta’s Coal Oil Point Reserve to Vandenberg AFB for more than 20 years. The Gaviota Coast is a globally significant bioregion with features qualifying it as a National Seashore.

In 2017 the biggest privately-owned ranch on the Gaviota Coast was preserved in perpetuity by philanthropists Jack and Laura Dangermond. The Dangermond Preserve protects 24,500 acres of the Cojo-Jalama Ranches (aka Bixby Ranch), with spectacular, undeveloped and largely undisturbed lands surrounding the fabled Point Conception. We are thrilled to present the Coastal Legacy 2019 award to these two outstanding conservation heroes at our upcoming September event.

development since our inception in 1996, working with farm and ranch owners to keep land in productive agriculture, and keeping the coast open for the public to explore and enjoy for generations to come.

Join us in honoring the Dangermonds at this fabulous event to protect the last rural stretch of undeveloped SoCal coastline.

For more information on the event, click on the QR code here or log onto gaviotacoastconservancy.org/2019legacy

GCC has been holding the line on Gaviota Coast

Gaviota Coast Conservancy Invites You To

coastal legacy 2019 Saturday September 2 1 st Music Academy of the We st 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

We are honored to announce Coastal Legacy 2019 Award Recipients

Jack and Laura Dangermond

In recognition of their vision, generous actions and commitment to the protection and preservation of the Gaviota Coast.

Lift a paddle for GCC! Live Music, Live and Silent Auctions, Hors d’oeuvres, Wine & Beer

Tickets $125

Tickets available June 20th www.gaviotacoastconservancy.org/2019legacy Sponsorship Packages and Underwriting Opportunities Available Email: legacy@gaviotacoastconservancy.org • Call: 805.683.6631 california101guide.com

Artwork by Daniella Manini

Suzanne Elledge

Planning & Permitting Services, Inc.

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Camp Campthe theCentral CentralCoast Coast

by Misty

by Misty HallHall Some Some of myofearliest, my earliest, and and happiest, happiest, memories memories are from are from camping camping tripstrips withwith my family my family on the on Central the Central Coast.

Coast.

Memories Memories of sunburns of sunburns and and s’mores, s’mores, of long of long daysdays and and warmwarm nights, nights, making making friends friends withwith the kids the kids in the in next the next campsite, campsite, and and roaming. roaming.

Free-range Free-range roaming, roaming, sanssans parents, parents, withwith a gang a gang of little of little twerps twerps on bicycles on bicycles through through the campgrounds the campgrounds and and surrounding surrounding hills.hills.

Getting Getting gloriously gloriously dirty,dirty, trying trying to catch to catch fish with fish with a pole a pole and and bullfrogs bullfrogs withwith our hands our hands and and a flashlight. a flashlight.

WhenWhen I became I became an adult, an adult, my love my love for camping for camping continued. continued.

There’s There’s just something just something simple simple and and beautiful beautiful about about being being outside outside all day, all day, whether whether it beitway be way up inupthe in mountains, the mountains, at at the lake, the lake, or down or down at the at beach. the beach.

In today’s In today’s increasingly increasingly internet-dependent internet-dependent world, world, we all weneed all need to spend to spend moremore timetime unplugged, unplugged, just just BEING, BEING, withwith the ones the ones we love. we love.

Below Below are aare few a few of our of favorite our favorite Central Central Coast Coast camping camping spots. spots.

Whether Whether you’re you’re a a tent tent camper camper or a or glamper a glamper withwith a fullya fullyloaded loaded RV, you’ll RV, you’ll find find plenty plenty of options of options

Ventura Ventura County County

across across the Central the Central Coast.

Coast.

Of course, Of course, youryour bestbest bet isbet to isget to out get aout good a good old-fashioned old-fashioned roadmap, roadmap, find find the little the little red dots red dots or brown or brown tent tent symbols symbols indicating indicating campsites, campsites, and and go exploring. go exploring.

We’ve We’ve found found somesome of our of all-time our all-time favorite favorite sitessites that that way!way!

We’ve We’ve included included a few a few supersupersecret-spot secret-spot photos photos to inspire to inspire youryour sense sense of of adventure. adventure.

But to Butmake to make it easier it easier for you, for you, herehere are are highlights highlights of some of some amazing amazing campgrounds campgrounds not too not far toooff farthe off beaten the beaten path.path.

If you’re If you’re visiting visiting during during the summer the summer — especially — especially with with kids — kids don’t — don’t miss miss the Casitas the Casitas WaterWater Adventure.

Adventure.

With With a giant a giant waterwater playground playground and and lazy river, lazy river, it’s the it’sperfect the perfect spot spot to cool to cool downdown and make and make new new friends. friends.

ThereThere are also are also adultadult water-exercise water-exercise classes classes in theinmornings, the mornings, and and a fewa evenings, few evenings, as well. as well.

Prefer Prefer a drier a drier formform of of exercise? exercise?

Get out Getyour out your discsdiscs and hit anduphitthe up the disc disc golf golf course, course, regarded regarded as one as of onethe ofbest the best (and(and mostmost challenging) challenging) in theinstate. the state.

• Lake • Lake Casitas Casitas AfterAfter a drought a drought in theinfirst the half first of halfthe of the 20th20th century, century, the people the people of the ofOjai the Ojai areaarea decided decided they they needed needed a drinking a drinking waterwater reservoir. reservoir.

And And thus,thus, LakeLake Casitas Casitas was was born.born.

In itsIn60-odd its 60-odd yearsyears of existence of existence sandwiched sandwiched between between Ojai Ojai and Ventura, and Ventura, it hasit never has never allowed allowed swimming. swimming.

But itBut hasit has become become known known as one as of onethe ofbest the best bassbass PhotoPhoto

by Misty

by Misty Hall Hall Bird watchers, Bird watchers, meanwhile, meanwhile, will also will also rejoice rejoice at at fishing fishing spotsspots in theinregion. the region.

It also It also boasts boasts a aPanoramic Panoramic views views of the of Ojai the Ojai Valley, Valley, and and Lake Lake Casitas, Casitas, as this as reservoir this reservoir is a habitat is a habitat for for largelarge campground, campground, waterpark, waterpark, disc disc golfing golfingfantastic fantastic bassbass fishing, fishing, can can be found be found at at course, course, and even and even a little a little “airport” “airport” to flyto fly LakeLake a wide a wide variety variety of species of species — including — including a nesting a nesting Casitas.

Casitas. remote remote control control airplanes. airplanes. pair pair of bald of bald eagles! eagles!

There’s There’s a dedicated a dedicated groupgroup of local of local eagle-watchers, eagle-watchers, at least at least one of onewhom of whom is on-hand is on-hand mostmost LakeLake Casitas Casitas is near is near and dear and dear to mytoheart. my heart.

It’s close It’s close to myto my daysdays to document to document the eagles the eagles on camera on camera and share and share theirtheir findings findings hometown hometown of Ojai; of Ojai; it’s the it’splace the place I learned I learned to fresh-water to fresh-water fish, fish, and and newcomers. newcomers. the place the place I saidI said my wedding my wedding vows.vows.

But toButeven to even the casual the casual observer, observer,with with there’s there’s lots of lotsgood of good timestimes to betofound be found here.here.

ThereThere are more are more thanthan If you’re If you’re readyready to diptoadip linea inline theinwater, the water, stop stop by the bybait the bait and and 400 400 campsites campsites to choose to choose from,from, including including tent tent sites sites as well as well as as tackle tackle shop.shop.

The guys The guys downdown therethere love love to offer to offer advice advice on what’s on what’s hookup hookup sites.sites.

Glamping?

Glamping?

LookLook for the forexecutive the executive hookup hookup sites sites in in beenbeen biting, biting, where, where, and on andwhat on what type type of bait. of bait.

If you’re If you’re interested interested A andA Fand campgrounds F campgrounds for level for level concrete concrete pads,pads, grassy grassy areas, areas, and and in catching in catching yourself yourself a fisha dinner, fish dinner, consider consider hiringhiring a guide, a guide, like Ojai like Ojai hookups hookups for water, for water, electricity, electricity, and sewer. and sewer.

My favorites, My favorites, though, though, Angler Angler or Rich or Rich Tauber.

Tauber. are the areGthe and GO and campgrounds, O campgrounds, whichwhich are more are more basicbasic but provide but provide Helpful Helpful hint: hint: Bringing Bringing your your own own boat?boat?

You’llYou’ll needneed to plan to plan prettypretty greatgreat viewsviews of the oflake the lake and surrounding and surrounding hillsides. hillsides.

Scattered Scattered in in far ahead; far ahead; due to duefears to fears of spreading of spreading the damaging, the damaging, highlyhighly invasive invasive between between are plenty are plenty of bathrooms, of bathrooms, playgrounds, playgrounds, and aand couple a couple of of quagga quagga and zebra and zebra mussels, mussels, all vessels all vessels (even(even kayaks) kayaks) are subject are subject shower shower houses, houses, too. too.

The camp The camp storestore is centrally is centrally located located across across fromfrom to a to mandatory a mandatory 35 day 35 quarantine day quarantine before before beingbeing allowed allowed to enter to enter the Fthe campground F campground and has and everything has everything you forgot you forgot to bring to bring (and(and the lake. the lake. then then some). some).

Don’tDon’t feel like feelcooking? like cooking?

StopStop by the byMarina the Marina CaféCafé for for amazing amazing viewsviews and an andeven an even better better breakfast breakfast and lunch and lunch menu. menu.

Get there: Get there: FromFrom Ventura, Ventura, take take the 101 theto101theto33 thenorth; 33 north; turn left turnon left on 26

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Santa Ana Blvd, then right on Santa Ana Road.

For more, and to reserve a site: casitaswater.org • Want to venture further into the mountains?

Keep going up Highway 33 north of Ojai, and you’ll find lots of great options to try, like Wheeler Gorge, Middle Lion, Rose Valley, and more. Wheeler Gorge boasts a creek running through the middle of the campgrounds, with lots of shade; same goes for Middle Lion. Rose Valley sits up above an elevation of 3,400 feet, and is the perfect jumping off point for hikes to the Piedra Blanca, Sespe, and Rose Valley Falls. Just be sure to call the local ranger stations ahead of time to get the inside scoop (like whether you’ll need to bring your own water, or if fire danger levels are high enough to prohibit the use of wood fires). You can reserve some sites online at recreation.gov.

Santa Barbara County • Figueroa Campground Above the cute little town of Los Olivos lies Figueroa Mountain.

In the springtime, its triangle face turns brilliant orange with California poppies, making it a popular stop-off for tourists. No matter what time of year you go, the drive up Figueroa Mountain Road is stunning. Lace lichen (commonly mistaken for Spanish moss) floats lazily in the breeze as it clings to the oaks arching overhead.

The shiny greenish hues of serpentinite rock add interest to the dry grasses. As you climb up the increasingly windy road, incredible views of the ocean appear and disappear around each turn. Soon, you’ll notice manzanita trees, with their distinctive dark red bark contrasting prettily with their sage green leaves.

It is these manzanita trees that make the Figueroa Campground so appealing. They complement the area’s pines and oaks, and add a sense of coziness to the 35 sprawling, well-shaded sites. There are no hook-ups or water available up here on the mountain, but

Photo by Richard Bell

Figueroa Mountain.

there are picnic tables and fire rings in each site, and bathrooms and trash dumpsters within the campground. My favorite sites are those furthest from the entrance, one of which leads up to a short trail that opens up to beautiful ocean sunset views. You can even see bits and pieces of the Vandenberg Air Force Base from the trail (and even better views can be had a short hike/drive up the road).

Hang out in the campground around sunset, and you’ll likely spot some mule deer in search of lace lichen.

Helpful hints: It can get a bit buggy at times, so be sure to bring an all-natural bug repellant, just in case! You might also want to reserve your site a little ahead of time if you’re going during the popular deer hunting season (mid-August to the end of September).

Feeling a little more adventurous? Head about 40 minutes further up Figueroa Mountain Road to Sunset Valley Road, and you’ll find yourself at Davy Brown Campground. Even more rustic than Photos by Misty Hall

Some of the best campsites are found on good old-fashioned paper maps.

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Chasing the sunset at Figueroa Mountain.

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Figueroa, its 13 sites are well-shaded — and most are adjacent to an (almost) year-round creek.

Get there: From the 101, take the 154 east, north of Buellton.

Make a left onto Figueroa Mountain Road as you enter the town of Los Olivos.

For more: fs.usda.gov/lpnf • Jalama Beach County Park Renowned for its surf, cafe burgers, and remote location, Jalama (“ha-la-ma”) is a must-see. The drive in is about 14 miles on Jalama Road, but like Figueroa Mountain Road, the scenic journey into the campground is part of the fun.

There are fire pits and picnic tables at all of its 107 sites, and 31 of them have hook-ups. There’s water and trash bins, as well as a general store and a little restaurant (trust me: get. the. burger.)

While all the sites have great beachy views, you’ll need to do a little planning ahead — or just have great luck — to avoid the sites where you’re situated a little too close to your neighbors (and there are a few). Reserve a beach-adjacent site online up to six months ahead of time. There are also a few cabins available for rent.

Helpful hints: Jalama can have great surf, but the water can also get dangerously rough; be wary! You’ll also want to make a contingency plan for the wind, which is often blowing.

Translation: add more tie-downs to secure your tent and pop-ups (seriously, we’ve seen them take flight more than once), and be ready to roll up your RV’s awning if the gusts get too strong.

Get there: On the 101 north of Gaviota, take Highway 1 north to Jalama Road.

For reservations and more: countyofsb.org/parks/jalama.sbc

San Luis Obispo County • Lake Nacimiento This spot is all about having fun on the water. Choose a spot along the 165 miles of coastline for a day-camp and use it as a base to ski/wakeboard/canoe/fish/swim/jet ski to your heart’s content.

Then, spend your evenings in one of six campgrounds, each with its own character: Quail’s Roost, Oak Knoll, Rocky Canyon, Sandy Point, Eagle’s Ridge, or Pine Knoll. If you’re in an RV, you’ll want to stick with Oak Knoll or Pine Knoll; if you’d like a more remote setting and some excellent views, try the hike-in, tent-only Eagle’s Ridge.

If you’d rather do the glamping thing, there are a number of lodges to choose from. But plan ahead if you do; they can fill up quickly in the summer. And, really, same goes for most of the Nacimiento campgrounds; the best sites fill quickly. After all, this is one of the best places on the Central Coast to fish (white bass), boat (try cruising the narrows!), and try your hand at water sports. I learned to ski on “Naci” at age 9; I remember sitting around the campfire in Oak Knoll campground that night, proudly telling the tale of how it only took me two tries to get up.

But let’s back up a little bit and set the tone. Look on a map (or a bumper sticker on the back of a truck) and you might notice the curvy lake looks a bit like a dragon, with its head pointing due east toward San Miguel and the 101. It is in this head region that much of the lake recreation takes place. There’s a marina, a store, and a restaurant, along with bathrooms and shower houses scattered throughout the campgrounds.

Thanks to a good rain year, the lake level has gone up considerably, sitting at about 78 percent as of press time. That means more surface space for making more memories on the water! Helpful hint: if you’re bringing your own boat and it’s recently

Photo by Pamela Heckel

Jalama Beach 28

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PhotoPhoto

by Peter

by Peter Gonzales Gonzales

Pismo Pismo Beach Beach

(as well (as well as fire asrings, fire rings, picnic picnic tables, tables, and pay and showers). pay showers).

Oceano Oceano Campground Campground has RV hassites RV sites with with hook-ups hook-ups as well as well as tent as tent camping camping options. options.

There’s There’s also also an area an area just south just south of the ofcampground the campground where where you can you actually can actually post post up right up right on the onbeach the beach in your in your RV, trailer, RV, trailer, or or toy hauler. toy hauler.

And And if you’re if you’re goinggoing to Pismo, to Pismo, you’re you’re probably probably hauling hauling toys.toys.

This isThis a great is a great homehome basebase for dirtbike for dirtbike and ATV and enthusiasts.

ATV enthusiasts.

PismoPismo Dunes, Dunes, Ocean Ocean Dunes, Dunes, and other and other spotsspots are all areclose all close by. Don’t by. Don’t havehave toys,toys, needneed a lesson, a lesson, or want or want to take to take a tour? a tour?

ThereThere are tons are tons of outfits of outfits rightright on the onbeach the beach that that will rent will rent you ayou slew a slew of different of different vehicles vehicles and safety and safety equipment, equipment, and also and also makemake sure sure you know you know how how to operate to operate themthem safely. safely.

Photography Photography enthusiasts, enthusiasts, too, love too, love this place: this place: between between the the beenbeen in another in another lake,lake, call ahead call ahead to make to make sure sure that that lake lake wasn’t wasn’t a a wheeled wheeled adventures adventures and the andstunning the stunning sunsets, sunsets, there’s there’s plenty plenty of of quagga/zebra quagga/zebra mussel mussel infested infested lake;lake; if it was, if it was, you’llyou’ll be subject be subject to a to afun tofunbetohad. be had. quarantine quarantine for up fortoup30todays.

30 days.

Helpful Helpful hint: hint: I’ve said I’ve said it before it before and I’ll andsayI’llitsay again: it again: PLANPLAN AHEAD. AHEAD. Get there: Get there: FromFrom the 101, thetake 101, take the exit the for exitthe forHwy. the Hwy. 46 (exit 46 (exit 231),231), and andThis isThis a busy is a busy placeplace all year, all year, and especially and especially in theinsummer, the summer, so put so put take take 24th24th Street, Street, whichwhich becomes becomes Nacimiento Nacimiento LakeLake DriveDrive and follow and followyour your reservations reservations in early. in early.

Also:Also: Like Jalama, Like Jalama, PismoPismo is known is known for for the signs the signs to thetoentrance. the entrance. its tendency its tendency to get to super get super windywindy — so —keep so keep that that in mind in mind and pack and pack layers! layers!

And,And, of course of course … safety … safety first. first.

For reservations For reservations and more: and more: nacimientoresort.com nacimientoresort.com • Pismo • Pismo Beach Beach Beach-party Beach-party time!time!

Where Where the 101 theand 101 Hwy. and Hwy. 1 meet 1 meet are several are several campgrounds, campgrounds, fromfrom rusticrustic to resort. to resort.

The most The most popular popular and well and well known known is Pismo is Pismo StateState Beach Beach NorthNorth Campground, Campground, whichwhich has 103 has 103 campsites. campsites.

ThereThere are no arehook-ups, no hook-ups, but there but there is a dump is a dump station station

Get there: Get there: FromFrom the 101 thein101 Pismo, in Pismo, take take exit 190 exitfor 190Price for Price St., turn St., left turn left on Ocean on Ocean ViewView Ave, Ave, then then headhead southsouth on Hwy. on Hwy. 1/ Cabrillo 1/ Cabrillo Hwy.Hwy. For reservations For reservations and more: and more: parks.ca.gov/?page_id=595 parks.ca.gov/?page_id=595 or or reservecalifornia.com. reservecalifornia.com.

PARTING PARTING THOUGHTS THOUGHTS • A good • A good jumping jumping off point off point for exploring for exploring all the alltrails the trails and campgrounds and campgrounds of Los of Padres Los Padres National National Forest: Forest: stop stop by a by visitor’s a visitor’s center center or one or one of the ofranger the ranger stations, stations, and dig andinto dig the intowebsite. the website.

If youIf love you love to explore to explore random random campgrounds campgrounds as much as much as weasdo, webe do,smart be smart — do—ado bita bit of research of research first, first, thenthen call the callnearest the nearest ranger ranger station station to check to check for changes for changes or updates. or updates.

That’sThat’s whatwhat we did weto didfind to some find some of our ofall-time our all-time favorite favorite sites,sites, but don’t but don’t ask us askforusthe fornames; the names; it’s more it’s more fun iffun youif discover you discover it forityourself! for yourself!

For maps For maps and ranger and ranger station station locations locations and phone and phone numbers: numbers: fs.usda.gov/lpnf. fs.usda.gov/lpnf.

• Want • Want to gotoway go way off the offgrid? the grid?

Consider Consider the Channel the Channel Islands!

Islands!

You’llYou’ll needneed to hop to on hopaon boat a boat (or, if(or, you’re if you’re fancy, fancy, an airplane) an airplane) to get to get there,there, but you’ll but you’ll be literally be literally milesmiles fromfrom reality reality out inout thisin National this National Park Park islandisland chain. chain.

WhileWhile eacheach one of onethe ofislands the islands offersoffers at least at least one one campground, campground, Santa Santa CruzCruz IslandIsland is a good is a good choice. choice.

It is the It issecond-closest the second-closest to the tomainland the mainland and offers and offers somesome unbelievable unbelievable hike-in hike-in sites,sites, as well as well as history as history to spare to spare (both(both natural natural and human-made). and human-made).

Santa Santa RosaRosa also also offersoffers somesome spectacular spectacular sites,sites, too, too, but requires but requires a little a little moremore time time on aon boat a boat to get to there. get there.

Remember: Remember: all campgrounds all campgrounds on the onislands the islands require require a hike, a hike, and you’ll and you’ll needneed to pack to pack in and in pack and pack out out everything everything you need. you need.

ThereThere are also are also no wood no wood campfires campfires allowed. allowed.

For more: For more: call (805) call (805) 658-5730, 658-5730, visit nps.gov/chis, visit nps.gov/chis, or the orChannel the Channel Islands Islands National National Park Park Visitors Visitors Center, Center, at 1901 at Spinnaker 1901 Spinnaker Dr. inDr. Ventura. in Ventura. california101guide.com

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WINERIES OF THE PRESIDIO NEIGHBORHOOD SANTA BARBARA’S PREMIER WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE

CA 101

Au Bon Climat 813 Anacapa St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 963-7999 www.aubonclimat.com Open since 2011, our tasting room in downtown Santa Barbara offers current releases and select library wines in a warm and casual setting. The wines of Au Bon Climat, Clendenen Family Vineyard, Ici/La-Bas, Barham Mendelsohn, Vita Nova, and Jim Clendenen’s other creative endeavors are featured, representing an array of varietals beyond Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. With over 100 different wines stocked, the selection is amazing.

We are open 7 days a week. Noon - 6:00pm on weekdays & 11:00 6:00pm on weekends.

Drop in any time to taste our wine.

Cebada Tasting Room 8 E. De La Guerra St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 451-2570 www.cebadawine.com Cebada Wine’s tasting room is located just off State Street in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. We feature Estate Grown, Burgundian style Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. You can even taste our Estate Blueberry Dessert Wine. Enjoy delicious treats from fruits grown on our farm, chocolate and honey parings and unique gift items. Our friendly atmosphere and beautiful view of the mountains create the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon sipping on our Sparkling wine or a romantic sunset Pinot, all served by our knowledgeable staff.

Tasting Hours: Monday-Wednesday open by appointment. Thursday 2-6 • Friday 1-6 • Saturday 12-6. Sunday 12-5

Jamie Slone Wines Tasting Room 23 E. De La Guerra St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 560-6555 www.jamieslonewines.com LAID-BACK LUXURY - As 2018 Best of Santa Barbara runner-up, our mission is to provide guests an outstanding Santa Barbara wine experience.

In our cozy tasting room, you’ll discover our passion for family, entertaining, and delicious handcrafted 90+ point wines from the best local vineyards. We’re sipping on Albariño, Sauvignon Blanc, Sparkling, Chardonnay, Rosé, Pinot Noir, Red Blends and Cabernet Sauvignon. We are living the wine lifestyle. A Yelp and TripAdvisor favorite...join us!

Grassini Family Vineyards 24 El Paseo - in the Center Courtyard, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 897-3366 www.grassinifamilyvineyards.com At Grassini Family Vineyards and Winery, our extended family’s passion for beauty, the commitment to hard work, and a special place all come together to make the wine in bottles bearing our family’s label something special… and it is our hope that you will enjoy the poetry of the wine and its sense of place and tradition with your friends and family.

Open Daily 12 - 6 pm (last tasting at 5:30pm)

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From agriculture to petting zoos, the Santa Barbara County Fair has it all

By Sami Zahringer

The popular, traditional, agriculturally-oriented Santa Barbara County Fair showcases the community’s interests and talents for the 128th year from July 10 to 14. It offers a unique assortment of activities to do and see and an interesting mix of both community-oriented and educational fun. It features the state’s largest junior livestock auction, along with plenty of other plant and animal based agricultural exhibits as well. There jams and jellies, pies, photography, homemade quilts, and floriculture. The fair also features award-winning wines, fine art, and plenty of entertainment, including the much-beloved Destruction Derby.

The Fair offers a variety of free (with paid admission) interactive, kid-friendly shows and educational exhibits. Free attractions also include both local and big-name musical artists each year.

This year the Bud Light Concert Series will host: Maddie & Tae, making a stop-off from the Cry Pretty Tour, where they’re performing with country music superstar Carrie Underwood; Clay Walker, legendary country music singer who exploded on the scene in the ‘90s and just released a new album, Long Live the Cowboy; R&B queen Ashanti who stars in the new movie “Struck” and is working on a new album; and “America’s best ever girl-band,” TLC, who are currently on tour with Nelly and Flo Rida. All concerts are free with paid admission into the Fair.

There are also plenty of carnival rides, animals, petting zoos, pony rides, and, of course, lots of fantastic fair food in a wholesome, old-fashioned atmosphere for the whole family to enjoy. The Santa Barbara County Fair takes place July 10 to 14 at the Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 South Thornburg St, in Santa Maria.

Tickets: Adult Admission (ages 12 to 61) is $12; Youth Admission (6-11) and Senior Admission (age 62+) are both $9; Children 5 and under are free. There are daily Unlimited Ride Wristbands for $35 at the carnival, and special discounts offered each day.

Check out santamariafairpark.com for your tickets, parking, and additional information.

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CALIFORNIA 101 Featured Property

CA 101

ICONIC Montecito Architecture / Slater House II – A Mary Craig Masterpiece This is a rare opportunity to revive a true Montecito Masterpiece, the Mary Craig “Slater House”, built in 1930 with spacious grounds, views, and location. Create your own quintessential Spanish Colonial dream estate on this property filled with original architectural features that cannot be replicated.

Located in the heart of Montecito, on a slight crest amid major estates, on 2.8 usable acres, the residence overlooks the gracious Valley Club and offers ocean and mountain views.

The home maintains the architectural 32

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integrity it is famous for including the central courtyard, the full height entrance hall with unique clerestory window-door, coved ceilings, double groined hallway ceilings, wrought iron doors and window grills, hand-carved wood doors, and terra cotta tile floors. The magnificent site and views can be appreciated from the sweeping terraces, upstairs and down, that beckon for entertainment.

This home, known as Slater House II, is arguably the quintessential design by Mary Craig, a renowned architect whose many famous buildings in Santa Barbara with tile roofs, white stucco walls, and wood-beam ceilings have become synonymous with Santa Barbara’s Spanishderivative architecture. california101guide.com

CALIFORNIA 101 Featured Property

Architectural treasures abound such as the original tiled flower arranging sink in the women’s cloak room, the signature rounded-stone courtyard with the architect’s initials, wood doors with polished carved detailing, and the upstairs view terrace with a view of each chimney top featuring a different finish to replicate a sense of a village.

The spacious wood ceilinged living room leads to the expansive terraces through multiple French doors. The elegant dining room has a classically beautiful wood fireplace. There is a downstairs master with fireplace, coved ceiling, windows and doors on three sides, several closets, and a large master bathroom. The kitchen is unexpectedly airy for a home of this age and offers a butler’s pantry, walk-in pantry, breakfast area and sitting room. The home has multiple bedrooms.

Secluded behind historic stone walls and mature vegetation there is a resort-size california101guide.com

CA 101

pool, tennis court, guest quarters, and historic garden features.

The original gardens may have been designed by Alice Keck and are waiting to be rediscovered and restored. There are multiple fountains and a pavilion. The lovely motor court provides ample parking in front of the home, or drive through the archway to the brick and cobblestone parking area for the threecar garage with apartment.

There are few original estates still intact with almost 3 acres. Slater House II, described in many books and articles, and not on the market for decades, is an opportunity to own and enhance a piece of Montecito’s history and create a signature estate of your own that will rival the many surrounding estates valued at three times the price of this offering.

For more info contact Colleen Parent Beall / COMPASS (805) 895-5881 DRE#01201456 colbeall@gmail.com Summer 2019

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g in ! m n Co oo S

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Yet another reason to visit Santa Barbara…SB Studio Artists’ Open Studios Tour Labor Day weekend, Aug 30-Sept 2, 2019; opening reception at Santa Barbara Fine Art If a sliver of paradise nestled between the blue Pacific and golden foothills aren’t reason enough to visit Santa Barbara, then you’ll want to time your visit to coincide with the 18th Annual Santa Barbara Studio Artists’ Open Studios Tour.

including Dorothy Churchill-Johnson, Kathleen Elsey, Karen Fedderson, Francine Kirsch, Cynthia Martin, Larry Rankin, Lena Savage, Richard Schloss, Francis Scorzelli, and many more.

The opening night reception is Friday, Aug. 30, from 5:00 – 8:00 pm at Santa Barbara Fine Art Gallery, 1324 State Street, Suite J (in the Arlington Plaza), where tour maps and tickets can also be purchased. The gallery will also display selected works from the tour throughout the month of August. Fans can also purchase tour tickets online at santabarbarastudioartists.com. Proceeds from the event benefit Sansum Diabetes Research Institute, a leader in diabetes treatment and research.

Painter Fran Scorzelli at work in his studio.

Each year this exceptional group of artists opens its members’ studios to the public for a sought-after chance to visit the artists in their work environment. The oldest and most prestigious event of its kind on the Central California Coast, the tour draws national and international collectors, decorators, and gallery owners for a weekend devoted to viewing and purchasing exceptional art. This year’s tour features 45 acclaimed artists,

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Sculptor Larry Rankin with several pieces in his studio.

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WE GOT THE FUNK - THE FUNK ZONE IS SANTA BARBARA

CA 101

Bluewater Grill Santa Barbara 15 E. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 845-5121 www.bluewatergrill.com Bluewater Grill Santa Barbara combines locally caught sustainable seafood and shellfish with the latest releases from Santa Barbara County wineries in a landmark lighthouse at the foot of Stearns Wharf.

The destination beachfront restaurant offers lunch, dinner, and small plates daily on two floors featuring an oyster bar, dining counter overlooking an open kitchen, and an upstairs dining patio and bar offering beach views, local wine flights and locally caught fish. Chef Chanel Ducharme offers up to 40 varieties of seafood and shellfish annually, either simply grilled or in gourmet presentations like Chipotle Blackened Swordfish and San Francisco Cioppino with Hope Ranch Black Mussels.

Lafond Winery & Vineyards 111 E. Yanonali St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 845-2020 lafondwinery.com Open 10-6 Every day 10-7 Fr. and Sat. Lafond Winery & Vineyards is the sister label to neighbor, Santa Barbara Winery.

With the first grapes belonging to Lafond Vineyards being planting in 1962, owner Pierre Lafond established the first commercial winery in Santa Barbra County.

The Lafond label specializes in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah.

Also, be sure to visit our beautiful vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills near Buellton, CA.

Lama Dog Tap Room & Bottle Shop 116 Santa Barbara St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 880-3364 www.lamadog.com At Lama Dog Tap Room & Bottle Shop we do craft beer a little differently in Santa Barbara. We offer a revolving tap that changes every day and we also offer local wines. Whether you are located in Goleta CA, Santa Barbara CA or the surrounding communities, Lama Dog Tap Room & Bottle Shop is the place to go for wine and beer. We are the craft beer bottle shop that actively seeks out the finest craft beer in California to serve in our beer bar.

We have 20 different tap beers that change every day to ensure that you always have the best selections. We keep our bottle shop full of different craft beers from around the world!

Sunday-Thursday: 11:30am-10pm Friday-Saturday: 11:30am-12am

Segway of Santa Barbara 122 Gray Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 963-7672 www.segwayofsb.com Professionally guided Segway tours, Segway rentals, and Polaris Slingshot roadster rentals. You can’t find a better way to experience Santa Barbara!

See the most in the shortest amount of time. It’s a vacation kind of day, so hop on a Segway and glide away!

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Get behind the wheel of a new Polaris Slingshot. Our 3-wheel, open cockpit roadsters are guaranteed to make you smile. Take a journey along the coast or through the hills in style!

Conveniently located in the Funk Zone, only 1 minute from the visitor center and Stearns Wharf.

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PRESENTS

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M U S I C

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CARPINTERIA — OFF THE BEATEN PATH

CA 101

Robitaille’s Fine Candies 900 Linden Ave., Carpinteria CA 93013 (805) 684-9340 www.robitaillescandies.com

Susan Willis Ltd. 4488 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria CA 93013 (805) 684-5085 www.susanwillisltd.com

Located in the heart of Carpinteria, Robitaille’s Fine Candies is home of the famous Presidential mints and Santa Barbara County’s largest retail candy store.

You do not want to miss this hidden gem, located on the north end of Carpinteria Ave. off the beaten path! Susan Willis LTD, is a very classy and eclectic gift shop that has been here for 26 years, with it’s own parking lot, it is easy and convenient to access.

Our unique selection of handmade candies, sugar free candies, and gigantic selection of packaged candy have been pleasing Santa Barbara County for over 40 years!

Come browse through many choices of summer must haves, like Turkish Towels, sun glasses and sun readers, to body lotions and summer treats to tuck into your picnic basket. Treasures, too many to mention. Great gift ideas for your summer Pet and House sitters.

quilting • Knitting needleworK • arts and gifts

AWARD-WINNING CRAFT BEER

Hours: M-s • 10 to 5 sun. • 11 to 4

FAMILY FRIENDLY TASTING ROOM OCEAN VIEW PATIO FOOD TRUCKS &

AWARD-WINNING Island Brewing Company MUSIC CALENDAR www.islandbrewingcompany.com/new-events CRAFT BEER 5049 6th St., Carpinteria CA 93013 5049 6TH STREET (805) 745-8272 www.islandbrewingcompany.com FAMILY FRIENDLY CARPINTERIA, CA 93013 TASTING ROOM 805-745-8272

ISLANDBREWINGCOMPANY.COM AWARD-WINNING OCEAN CRAFT BEER VIEW PATIO

FOOD & FAMILY FRIENDLY TASTINGTRUCKS ROOM

CALENDAR OCEANMUSIC VIEW PATIO

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FOOD TRUCKS & MUSIC CALENDAR islandbrewingcompany.com/new-events 5049 6TH STREET

Roxanne’s 919 Maple St., Carpinteria, CA 93013 (805) 566-1250 www.roxannequilts.com Hours: M-S • 10 to 5 Sun. • 11 to 4 A colorful and whimsical shop with everything you need for quilting, knitting, embroidery, special gifts and so much more!

Not only will you find great fabrics, beautiful yarns, supplies, books and classes but you will have an experience in artful living.

Come in and be inspired!

CARPINTERIA, CA 93013

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CARPINTERIA — OFF THE BEATEN PATH

CA 101

…simply fine wines at great prices!

Zookers Restaurant 5404 Carpinteria Ave., CA 93013 (805) 684-8893 www.zookersrestaurant.com At Zookers Restaurant, you will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a creative seasonal menu.

We put an emphasis on carrying local organic produce, the freshest fish, sustainably raised meats and chicken, as well as locally pasture raised beef.

Our “FARM TO TABLE” approach ensures that we have the freshest food in town.

We are conveniently located off Highway 101, up the the road from Ventura and down the road from Santa Barbara. We are located at the corner of Carpinteria Avenue and Casitas Pass Road.

brewLAB carpinteria.ca

Carpinteria Wine Company 4193 Carpinteria Ave. #1, Carpinteria CA 93013 (805) 684-7440 www.carpinteriawineco.com Wines for all occasions NEW ARRIVALS WEEKLY Stop in and shop our tremendous selection!

M-F 10-6pm Sat 10-5pm Take the Carpinteria Avenue exit from 101 South - 4th building on the right

angels is open!

• antiques • art • home decor • • furniture • collectibles • garden •

• BEACHY • TIKI • NAUTICAL • SURF brewLAB 4191 #8 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria CA 93013 (507) 319-5665 www.brewlabcraft.com

Angels Antiques 4846 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria CA 93013 (805) 684-8148

14 Unique Rotating Beers • Family and Dog Friendly Monday: Closed Closed WEDS/THURS: 4-9Tuesday: FRI: 4-10 SAT:12-10 SUN: 12-8 Wednesday: 4pm-9pm 14 Unique Rotating Beers | Family & Dog Friendly Thursday: 4pm-9pm w w w . b rFriday: e w l4pm-10pm abcraft.com 4191-8 Carpinteria Ave 507.319.5665 Saturday: 12pm-10pm Sunday: 12pm-8pm

A “Picker’s Paradise” on the California Coast for 33 years!

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DON’T MISS IT! Find us on Instagram at angelsofcarp Open daily 10am - 6pm — Closed Tuesdays

Summer 2019

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The Farmers’ Market Trail

By Randy Graham So, you are driving down California Highway 101 from San Luis Obispo to Ventura and wondering what to do. How about spending an enjoyable hour outdoors at one of 29 different farmers’ markets? Although we can’t feature all of the markets in this article, here are our top suggestions: San Luis Obispo County The San Luis Obispo County Farmers’ Market Association is a mutual benefit not-for-profit organization that manages five of the 14 weekly farmers’ markets in the county. One — the San Luis Obispo Thursday Evening Certified Farmers’ Market — is open from 6 to 9 pm I think this is one of the most fun farmers’ markets in California. It features lots of farmfresh produce and many varieties of prepared food, including barbecue and pastries. I like eating the sweet roasted corn while being entertained by street performers and musicians.

If you get a chance, take a stroll through the Paso Robles Certified Farmers’ Market.

This market is open Tuesdays from 3 to 6 pm As one customer said, “It may not be the biggest farmers’ market around, but I like it.

Especially the freshly-caughtfish stand. It is amazing.” Take a quick look around the market and then walk through the nearby park, which is surrounded by restaurants.

Photo by Kat Thompson

Soak in those summer evenings with a stroll through the San Luis Obispo Thursday Evening Farmers’ Market.

Photo by Randy Graham

Big-time bounty: Fill your basket with locally-sourced fare at a farmers’ market. There are dozens along your path through Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties.

Photo courtesy SLOFMA-Downtown SLO

You’ll find an abundance of flavors at San Luis Obispo’s Saturday Morning Farmers’ Market.

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Photos by Randy Graham

Family operations like Avila and Sons Farms produce some of the best locallygrown goods this region has to offer.

No matter which farmers’ market you visit, you’re sure to discover something new — and maybe make a few new friends, too.

Another market to consider is the Atascadero Certified Farmers’ Market. It is open on Wednesdays from 3 to 6 pm and offers fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, wine, and cut flowers. The surrounding park, with its gardens, fountains, and statuary, is the perfect place to picnic with goodies from the market.

Santa Barbara County The Santa Barbara Certified Farmers’ Market Association (SBCFMA) is also a mutual benefit not-for-profit organization that manages six separate markets. Formed in 1983, it is committed to the direct marketing principles of “producer to consumer,” working diligently to bring “the freshest and most nutritious produce our rich local agricultural land has to offer, direct to the public.”

One of its markets is the Santa Barbara Downtown Market, open on Saturdays from 8:30 am until 1 pm. I asked one of their customers what he liked about this market, and he replied, “The variety of cheeses, baked goods, seafood, raw milk, and honey.” Others remarked on the reasonable prices and the amazingly fresh produce.

Just south of Santa Barbara is the small town of Montecito where you can “walk among the stars.” The Montecito Market is also part of the SBCFMA and on a clear day boasts views from the City of Santa Barbara to the Channel

With its proximity to the wild lands — and wildflowers — of Los Padres National Forest, the Central Coast is a great place for making (and consuming!) raw honey.

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Science says you should “eat a rainbow.” Add two vibrant colors to your plate with orange and yellow carrots.

Islands and beyond. Although one of the smallest markets on the trail, you can expect to find 12 to 15 certified agricultural producers on hand each week. Look for fresh tomatoes, melons, summer squash, and stone fruit.

There is a fun farmers’ market in the ocean-side city of Carpinteria, just eight blocks from the “World’s Safest Beach.” The Carpinteria Market is open on Thursdays from 3 to 6:30 pm. Although this market is not as large as some of its sister markets, you can always find a nice selection of veggies, fruit, and cut flowers at excellent prices. When I asked one family what they liked best about this market, they all agreed that the abundance of free samples was a big draw. Others said they looked forward to the variety of fresh fruit pies in the summer.

Ventura County In Ventura, there are nine independent farmers’ markets: Two in Ventura, two in Oxnard, and one each in the cities of Ojai, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, and Simi Valley. My favorite is the Ojai Certified Farmers’ Market. It is open on Sundays from 9 am to 1 pm. I like it because almost all of the 60+ vendors offer organic produce, and the market has an abundance of musicians providing entertainment throughout the venue. Although this market is a 20-minute detour off Highway 101, it is worth the time and effort.

Eating good doesn’t have to be expensive. Why not try a new variety of a kitchen staple, like lettuce?

Add some sunny decor to your table with locally made beeswax taper candles.

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While you are at the Ojai Certified Farmers’ Market, allocate a couple of hours to enjoy Ojai with its excellent restaurants, breweries, wineries, and pubs — all within walking distance from the market. I like to buy Pixie tangerines, a few fresh heirloom tomatoes, figs, strawberries, avocados, pistachio nuts, and bread. I then stop by one of the craft breweries to pick up a growler of beer and make a picnic of it.

No matter which farmers’ market you choose to visit, you won’t be disappointed.

See the sidebar for a list of all 29 markets in the tri-county region.

Randy Graham is a writer, an author, and a private chef. His syndicated column, Chef Randy, is published in Central Coast newspapers.

See his website at Valley-Vegetarian.com for more recipes.

Photos by Randy Graham

The Ojai Certified Farmers’ Market offers fresh fare in the heart of downtown Ojai every Sunday morning.

Its proximity to a myriad of shops and restaurants adds to the charm — and the incredible mountain views aren’t bad, either.

No matter which Farmers’ Market you choose, this region offers excellent heirloom tomatoes.

Chipotle Honey-Vinaigrette Caprese Salad

by Chef Randy Graham As you walk through the farmers’ markets, buy fresh tomatoes, avocados, garlic, basil, and honey. Then go to your favorite grocery market to pick up the balance of ingredients for this fresh summer salad recipe. The combination of flavors is amazing, and it doesn’t hurt that it looks wonderful when plated. Your family and friends will be ooh-ing and aah-ing as you bring it to the table.

Ingredients: 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons honey 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 /2 teaspoon dried oregano 3 /4 teaspoons salt 1 /4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 tablespoon chipotle adobo sauce 1 garlic clove (minced) 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced 1/4 -inch thick) 2 large ripe tomatoes (sliced 1/4 -inch thick) 1 ripe avocado (peeled, pit removed and sliced lengthwise into wedges) 10 leaves of fresh basil (chopped for garnish) Photo by Randy Graham

Directions Combine the first eight ingredients (vinegar through garlic) in a mini food processor and process until smooth. Set this dressing aside. Arrange tomatoes and mozzarella in a circular design around the edge of a chilled salad plate. Overlay avocado slices in the center of the plate. Drizzle chipotle dressing over salad and garnish with basil.

This recipe makes two salads and may be doubled to serve four or more.

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Photos by Mariana Schulze

Latitudes Fine Art Gallery

By Amelia Fleetwood

In 2012, photographer Stephanie Hogue founded Latitudes Fine Art Gallery where she showcases her work, as well as the work of her partner, self-taught marine and wildlife photographer Steve Munch. Steve lives in Hawaii and runs their sister-gallery, while Stephanie takes care of their space in Ventura, which acts as the main hub for their business. Both photographers focus on the natural beauty that surrounds them in both Ventura and Hawaii.

Stephanie, who is originally from Texas, came to California to attend Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara.

She decided that the California weather was just too good to leave. Steve grew up in Ventura. The two met after Stephanie’s graduation and became friends. Stephanie shares, “We were inspired by each other’s work, and discovered 44

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that we both were feeling a little burned out. I was working as a wedding photographer and Steve was shooting race cars. We pushed each other to show our work at a festival, and from that a lasting friendship developed, full of (mutual) encouragement. We make each other better.”

Stephanie adds, “We have the love of nature photography in common and also the passion to share the beauty of where we live with others.”

Ventura’s Latitudes Fine Art Gallery features nature photography by Stephanie Hogue and Steve Munch.

Even when living in different states, the two often come together to shoot. Stephanie recalls a time when they planned to capture a specific image they had in mind, of dolphins racing the wake of a large tanker ship.

Stephanie and Steve were in their small boat when finally it happened. A tanker ship was in sight, and the couple raced after it in hopes of spotting dolphins. Luck was on their side; coming california101guide.com

Whether you want to fill a big wall with a triptych, or only have room in your suitcase for small souvenir, Latitudes has a variety of sizes and options for you to take home a piece of life on the Pacific Coast.

through the air was a small, young dolphin, zipping alongside the ship. “Often when we are shooting, time is of the essence, so we take turns manning our boat and shooting. We hand the cameras back and forth and in the flurry to capture the moment sometimes we are not quite sure who will have taken the final shot we choose,” Stephanie explains. “This shot in particular felt so serendipitous because the name of the tanker was Champion! In the end, it didn’t matter who took the shot!”

Stephanie travels all over the world for work, but saves her California works and local subjects to showcase in her Ventura gallery. “I try to include local landmarks, highlighting what our clients connect with and love in Ventura and California.”

Stephanie schedules shoots and makes plans to capture quintessential California moments like poppy season, the yellow mustard flowers on the hillsides, or that perfect beach day.

Stephanie prides herself in her alertness, how she pays attention to details in her everyday life. She adds, “There is a california101guide.com

certain pressure. I am always searching to capture the ideal scene that people can connect to.”

Stephanie’s photography is inspired by the magical element of stunning and often dramatic natural light, and she also specializes in flowers and marine wildlife. She describes her style as “light and fresh, leaving the viewer serene, calm, and happy.”

Latitudes Gallery has something for everyone, including hand carved wood, metal, and canvas. They offer options to customize both size and finish. Stephanie concludes with a smile, “Depending on size and budget requirements, we have anything from note cards to 7-foot-by-20-foot murals, and everything in between.”

Visit Latitudes Ventura on the web at latitudesfineart.com, at their gallery in Ventura, at 401 E. Main Street, or call (805) 642-5257.

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for accuracy andSAT is 12 pm p OK to pm run • SUN 12 pm - 9 pm - 11 quality of reproduction. with correction Signature: __________________________ Shake off the sand and get ready for good times at Leashless brewing, the only certified organic brewery between Santa Cruz and San Diego. Offering both gluten-reduced beer as well as regular beer.

Leashless Brewing offers something for everyone.

Leashless is family-friendly, dog-friendly brewery that has food trucks on site to meet your dining pleasure.

Add in live entertainment 2 to 5 nights a week and you’ll see why downtown Ventura is the place to be!

L EASHLESS B REWING 585 East Thompson Blvd.

Ventura, CA 93001 (805) 628-9474 leashlessbrewing.com california101guide.com

446 E. Main St. • Ventura • 93001 (805)643-9309 • BonMain.com B. On Main Ventura Bonmainventura Summer 2019

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Go Modern Boho At Kariella

By Misty Hall

Amara Bessa has always loved fashion. Growing up in Ojai, she cultivated a love of clothing that reflected her hometown: modern, bohemian, and flawlessly Californian.

That’s how she stocks her three clothing boutiques which she named Kariella, after her daughter. “It’s always going to be stuff on-trend, but not trendy,” she says. “It’s still sophisticated and timeless.”

Walk into any of the shops — in Ojai, Ventura, or Bend, Ore. — and you’ll find a distinct aesthetic.

“First, it smells amazing,” Amara says. “It’s warm and inviting, as if you’re going to your best friend’s house.” The space feels clean and bright, with lots of warm light and vaulted ceilings.

Bohemian accents set the tone.

The merchandise features soft fabrics. “You’ll want to touch everything!” Amara says. Some of her favorites include Free People and Z&L Europe, as well as her private label, Kariella.

For the summer, you’ll find lots of dresses and blouses from India with one-of-a-kind prints. Also big right now are jumpsuits, tops and bottoms with matching prints, many with midriffs, as well as suspendered pants and shirts. But Kariella also always has those solid basics pieces — a great pair of jeans, the perfect white shirt — necessary to complete any wardrobe.

And color — “We’re definitely not afraid of color!”

Amara says. “We love playing with color, putting together colors you wouldn’t maybe think to put together.”

Amara’s loving the swimwear selection this summer, especially Frankie’s Bikinis and the Florida-based Montce Swim. “Swimsuits are so fun this year!” Amara says. “Lots of bright colors, ribbed fabrics, a lot of bandeau tops — they’re coming with more support than they have in the past, which is really nice.” She’s also loving the high-cut one-pieces and all the throwback ‘80s and ‘90s styles. “People say they don’t see what we have in other stores,” Amara says.

Kariella’s carefully cultivated selections frequently change. “We order in limited quantities, and generally, we don’t reorder. So once it’s gone, it’s gone,” Amara says. “We have new things every single week. We try to keep it unique and special for everybody that comes in.”

Amara’s philosophy is working. From her original store in Bend, she moved back to Ojai and has opened two more stores (Ventura, then Ojai) in the last six years. She has a solid background in the industry, with 20 years of experience as a buyer for multiple boutiques. She also worked for several big retailers, including Nordstrom, in visual display. “I love the creative aspect,” she says. Amara still selects all the merchandise for her stores. And although she works the sales counter a bit less than she used to, she’s still very much part of every aspect of Kariella. “Everything from marketing, photoshoots, even taking out the trash!” she says.

In the future, be on the lookout for Amara’s own brand of clothing. But for now, go put together your perfect boho look at Kariella, in downtown Ojai and downtown Ventura.

Kariella is at 451 E Main St., Suite 9, Ventura, and 212 E Ojai Ave. in Ojai. For more, see kariella.com

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Ryan Snow’s Ventura Hot Spots with Amelia Fleetwood

Photos by Mariana Schulze

Ambrosia by Caffrodite

“I love this organic vegetarian cafe; it offers such a cozy atmosphere whether you are bringing a friend or a book. I always order the breakfast burrito, (and) a cappuccino with almond milk.

The pistachio mint smoothie is an absolute must!”

1987 E Main St. Suite B caffrodite.com (805) 628-9289

Harvest Cafe

“This cafe is a plant-based, organic farm-to-table spot, perfect for breakfast, lunch, and smoothies. Lots of space to work and there’s a dogfriendly patio. My favorite things here are the Green Room smoothie, Egg and Avocado Smorgas, and the Maca Bomb smoothie, perfect for that 3 pm crash fixer before a dip in the ocean.”

175 S Ventura Ave. harvestcafeventura.com (805) 667-8386 The entrance to Channel Islands Juice Company reflects its beachy surroundings.

The Harvest Cafe on South Ventura Avenue is Ryan’s go-to farm-totable spot.

Channel Islands Juice Company

“The Channel Islands Juice Company is a juice bar that’s walking distance to the beach. It serves 100 percent organic juices in recyclable glass bottles. Delicious, nourishing, and a super fun place to visit. My thing to order is the booster shot packed full of goodies for the immune system.”

291 E Thompson Blvd. cijuice.co (805) 667-8500

Grab some liquid greens at Channel Islands Juice Company.

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Rumfish y Vino

Catch the beachy Rumfish Y Vino vibes.

“This is my favorite restaurant in town.

Sit on the patio or at the bar for a true vacation vibe. The whole menu is fantastic, but my go-to dishes are: Fig & Goat Cheese Arugula Salad, Peruvian Ceviche, Fish Tacos, Yucatan Chicken, and their Wagyu Burger. There’s a full bar so they will make your preference; my current favorite is a Cassamigos Blanco and soda with fresh grapefruit juice.”

34 N Palm St. rumfishyvinoventura.com (805) 667-9288

Beach House Tacos

“This is an awesome place to enjoy fish tacos and beer on the pier. It always hits the spot after being in the water.”

668 Harbor Blvd.

(805) 648-3177

Paradise Pantry

“This is an excellent gourmet wine and cheese shop, a great place to grab fancy treats for a dinner party, or you can dine in the attached farm-to-table restaurant that serves lunch and dinner.

My favorite menu items are Pantry Cheese plate, Soup of the Day, Roasted Turkey and Pesto Sandwich, served, of course, with some wine from the Ojai Vineyard. Try the 2014 Pinot Noir.”

222 E Main St. paradisepantry.com (805) 641-9440

Gotetsu

“Gotetsu is a Japanese restaurant and sake house. This is a hidden gem for unique, authentic Japanese cooking. I always order the Yakitori Beef Filet, Chicken Thigh with Citrus Pepper, Godzilla Onigiri, Curry Special, Pari Pari, Seaweed Salad, and Hakushika Dry Sake.”

2098 E Main St. gotetsu805.wixsite.com/main (805) 312-7117

Topa Topa Brewing Company

“Excellent, hand crafted beers on tap with friendly vibes for humans and dogs, often with a killer food truck in the parking lot.

Or you can order pizza from Tony’s down the way. Favorite menu items: Chief Peak IPA, Level Line Pale Ale.” 104 E Thompson Blvd. topatopa.beer (805) 628-9255 Take your time through Ventura, and you’re sure to find some hidden gems. california101guide.com

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Ryan Snow’s Ventura Hot Spots Vita Art Center

“I love this place! Vita Art Center serves as a contemporary art gallery, curating museum-quality exhibits as well as providing art classes for all ages.”

28 W Main St. vitaartcenter.com (805) 644-9214

Fluid State Beer Garden

Hidden behind the nondescript facade is a treasure of a gallery — the Vita Art Center.

This spring’s glass exhibit displayed works form some of the region’s top glass makers.

“This fun bar has organic, live-fermented sourdough pizza.

Order a whole one, they’re amazing. Must try menu items include: Fungus Amungus, Italian Massage, Seoul Patch Salad, Buffalo Soldier Wings, and their cheese board.

Try the Dry Cider on tap too.”

692 E Main St. (805) 628-3107

Patagonia

“The Patagonia store is always a must-visit for outdoor types … This is Patagonia’s flagship store, where it all began. Check out their regular documentary film screenings, environmental education events, and yoga classes.”

235 W Santa Clara St. patagonia.com (805) 643-6074

Dexter’s Camera

“This brick-and-mortar camera shop sells and develops film, cleans and fixes gear. They have a rad selection of tested, vintage cameras for sale, and it’s also a great place to go for friendly advice.”

5 N Pacific Ave. dexterscamera.com (805) 643-2172

After all these decades, Dexter’s, the brick-and-mortar photography shop, is still alive and kickin’.

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Buckin' broncos, fried foods, and awesome art: the Ventura County Fair has it all

Running from July 31 to August 11 this year, the VC Fair packs a lot into its 12 days at Seaside Park: carnival rides, musical days and nights, grandstand concerts and competitions, and vendors galore.

visit all manner of baby farm animals. Repeat visitors can watch chicks hatch day by day. Vast barns contain prize chickens, rabbits, cows, pigs, bulls, and horses, amongst other animals, and you can almost always see somebody brushing a goat or blow-drying a sheep! Despite its proximity to Los Angeles, Ventura County has a vast 4-H and Grange community, making this section extra fun to visit. Nearby, you can watch the All-Alaskan Racing Pigs put on a surprisingly entertaining show.

It’s difficult to know where to start at such a big fair, but sampling some of the copious food options is always a safe bet. Roasted corn or turkey legs, funnel cakes, beer gardens, burger stands, and more gourmet food and wine options are everywhere throughout the grounds. In the grand tradition of fair foods, you’ll find a lot of deep-fried foods, from Oreos to pickles. Among the popular hotspots are the cinnamon roll booth, the giant baskets of just-cut spiral fries, and fresh mini donuts.

The exhibition halls, meanwhile, are filled with the winners of competitions in photography, pie-making, quilting, fine arts, and so much more. And be sure not to miss the Gem and Mineral Building, which also houses the collectors’ exhibits, and the vast Floriculture Department, where you’re sure to find inspiration for your own outdoor spaces. Speaking of growing things, pop over to the Agriculture Department and ogle the beautiful, the unusual, and the unusually large produce grown by local gardeners.

This year the musical highlights include concerts from Melissa Etheridge, Dia de la Familia, Styx, Martina McBride, Daughtry, George Thorogood and The Destroyers, and Collective Soul, amongst other well-known musical acts. They’re all held in the grandstand, and all included in the cost of admission. Also in the grandstand: the PRCA Rodeo! But you’ll find plenty of other entertainment scattered throughout the fair, so follow your ears!

But if you’re a kid (or just act like one), this is all just a distraction for the main event: the carnival games and rides! From the kindergarten-friendly to the gravity-defying, thrills — and giant stuffed animals — abound.

By Sami Zahringer

There’s a good reason they call it “The County Fair with Ocean Air!” Just a few hundred yards from the beach, the Ventura County Fair offers the perfect blend of summer heat and salty breezes.

Looking for quieter entertainment? At Uncle Leo’s Barn, kids can

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It would take days to do full justice to the fair, so plan more than one visit! There are special wristband days for seniors, for lowerpriced rides, and free or reduced-cost entry, so be sure to check out venturacountyfair.org for ticket prices and lots more.

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Meditative Minimalism: Ryan Snow

By Amelia Fleetwood Photos by Mariana Schulze

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“Art has always been a natural path for me!” local artist Ryan Snow exclaims. After graduating from University of California-Santa Cruz with a fine arts degree, Snow returned to his hometown of Ventura. His work, which can be described as environmentally conscious meditative minimalism, incorporates various modalities. Says Snow of his development, “Originally I was obsessed with sculpture and bronze casting, but my passions morphed to creating wall art. I just fell in love with painting and I started to get my sculptural ideas onto canvas.”

Snow’s sculpting background informs the art he makes today. “It’s just a different way of seeing space. My paintings are similar to my sculptures in that they are just shapes; it’s about the space and negative space a certain shape creates.”

Even though Snow likes to use different mediums such as photography and silk screen printing, an identifying thread can be found throughout his work. Creating a space with very simple parameters, Snow focuses on balance, weight, and lightness. “It evokes a sense of calm and peace,” he says, sharing what he feels while he is creating the work.

“I want to show people solutions in my artwork, not my demons,”

learning curve to achieve consistent results. Brushing the paint onto the canvas is different as well, because it’s literally pushing pigment into the surface, which in this case is organic, raw, unbleached canvas that I sand lightly after stretching to open the fiber cells to accept paint more easily. The pigments are gathered from anywhere I travel, and I just began keeping better track of locations to include this information as part of the pieces’ history.”

Recently, he’s also explored working with other organic sources of california101guide.com

Snow shares. He seeks “something super-centered and balancing that focuses on paring down of shape and form while using color as a metaphor, because that’s what we need to do with our lives.

To find what’s essential and put the energy into that. This is why the pieces get more and more minimalist. I want to communicate an idea and eliminate the rest.”

Snow credits being raised in and living in Ventura as his great influencer, shaping both him and his art. He likes to minimize his footprint on Mother Earth, keeping it simple wherever he can. The oceans and mountains all play their part in his inspiration and in his photography. “Whether it be a single palm tree or a set of clouds or a horizon,” Snow declares, “I continue to find the essential in this chaotic world.”

Additionally, Snow collects his own natural pigment from the earth while hiking the hills behind his house. Sourcing the materials from nature has multiple benefits — one, he can consider hiking as work. And, of course, the other is environmental; no plastic waste from containers, or toxic oils/acrylics down the drain. Once the materials have been foraged, Snow works on transforming the rocks into pigment paint. This takes time, the repetitive actions of cleaning, grinding, sifting, mixing, straining, and bottling. Snow explains, “Painting with this type of pigment paint has a real

pigment, “including roots, berries, plants, and seaweeds.”

Snow invites his collectors to come for a visit to his live-work gallery/studio where potential buyers can have tea with him, take their time, and sit with the art. His work is also currently on display at Napa Valley’s Arena Gallery.

To organize a studio visit with Snow, visit ryansnow.info or call (323) 309-1088.

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IMMACULATE COUNTRY CHARMER

READY TO BUILD

On almost 1-acre in Mira Monte. Open floor plan features Living room with raised beam ceilings, maple wood floors and cozy fireplace. Large family room opens to kitchen making entertaining easy. Formal dining room for family gatherings, three spacious and bright bedrooms---Two car garage with attached office or studio---Huge storage shed for garden tools plus old barn, play house and horse area. Various fruit trees and mountain views. $1,049,500

One of the last buildable lots in Rancho Matilija---Buyer to verify.

Completely flat, interior location, mountain views, adjacent to walking and riding trails and includes 1 Casitas water and sewer hook up. $599,500

RARE FIND

MOVE IN CONDITION!

East End Acre in East side of Ojai---Flat 1-acre lot just minutes from town. Utilities at street---buyer to verify. Buyer advised to check with City or County about possible development. Perfect for mini estate, horses, planting etc. Great mountain views----Reduced 50K! $399,500

Owner has added new paint, new flooring, 3-bedroom, 2-bath home has some new plumbing fixtures, new landscaping and more. Attached 2-car garage, fenced back yard, F/A heating and A/C--Affordable home centrally located. $599,500

DENNIS GUERNSEY

cell: 805.798.1998 Office: 805.646.7288 727 W. OJAI AVE., OJAI CA 93023 dennisguernsey.com dennisguernsey@gmail.com Lic. 04992913 california101guide.com

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CALIFORNIA 101 Artists and Galleries

— OJAI

CA 101

Ojai Poppies & Gifts 323 Matilija Ave., Ojai, CA 93023 (805) 798-0033 www.poppiesartandgifts.com You haven’t seen Ojai unless you visit Poppies Art and Gifts! Poppies features all local artists and you will find the best in wood items, unusual jewelry, ceramics, fine art paintings, mixed media, mosaics, weaving ,fresh wreaths and So Much More.

Poppies prices are the best in town and we’re friendly! Don’t leave town without picking up an Ojai souvenir such as Ojai Olive Oil, Ojai-made jam or Ojai lavender products.

Open 10-6 daily Follow us on FB and Instagram

Firestick Pottery 1804 Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023 www.firestickpottery.com (805) 272-8760 FIRESTICK POTTERY STUDIO, is home to more than 20 ceramic artists, who sell their wares and teach classes. Stop in for a tour of the studio, or browse in the gallery.

You may even sign up for a Pottery Party or 2-hour Workshop.

The Studio is on a park-like acre, with pomegranates, succulents and citrus trees: Open Daily 10 am - 6 pm Call to schedule a workshop or party

Brittany Davis Gallery 214 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023 (714) 369-9869 www.brittanydavisgallery.com

@BrittanyDavisGallery /BrittanyDavisGallery

Open Monday-Sunday 11am-7pm Closed on Tuesday Brittany Davis Gallery is a classical fine art gallery with a new exciting twist. Showcasing a wide variety of paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry, glassware and more by local and international artists. The gallery has monthly rotating exhibits with group and solo shows. Every time you visit, there are new works to enjoy with our monthly rotation.

Also, a few surprise installations you can find in the gallery. One being the in the Sky room. Walking around the gallery is friendly to all that want to view and learn about who and how the work is made.

Summer Camp 1020 W. Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023 (805) 861-7109 www.shopsummercamp.com Open Tues-Saturday 11am - 5pm & Sunday 12pm-4pm Summer Camp is a home, lifestyle and custom frame shop, located in a 1950’s gas station along highway 150, in Ojai. We carry handmade objects and gifts, with a focus on small batch, local and sustainable work.

We love working with local artists and makers to bring one of a kind goods to you. We also specialize in custom picture framing. Preserving and showcasing your artwork, paintings and photography, with a wide range of options to choose from. We will match any written framing quote, including online framing websites.

canvas and paper 311 N. Montgomery St., Ojai, CA 93023 www.canvasandpaper.org Hours: Thursday – Sunday, noon – 5pm An exhibition space showing paintings and drawings from the 20th century and earlier in thematic and single artist exhibits.

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Ojai Cafe Emporium Ojai’s favorite gathering and eating place for over 30 years.

Voted Best Bakery, Breakfast & Lunch Place ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 ‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16

805 646 2723

108 S. Montgomery Street / off Ojai Ave www.ojaicafeemporium.com BREAKFAST Served All Day Every Day LUNCH Served Daily11am-3pm BAKERY & COFFEE BAR Open Daily 6:30am-3pm california101guide.com

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By Nigel Chisholm

The Ojai Music Scene

Heading north on Highway 101 in Ventura, you will notice a road sign inviting you to join Highway 33 toward Ojai. Ojai is 13 miles east of Ventura and nestled under the mystical Topa Topa Mountains. Take that road and you’ll find yourself in quintessential small-town America. Tucked neatly inside the mountain range on what is historically Chumash territory, Ojai is a well-known artistic community. It is famed for the “Ojai Vortex” — a vortex where, apparently, all of your previous life experiences drain away and you discover the inner beauty of all things living and past. Yeah, that’s what I thought, too. Then I went there and discovered, much to my horror, that the Ojai Vortex exists.

that’s the common misconception! Start talking to a few locals, however, and you will find a very different reality. Here are a few of our favorite Ojai Valley spots.

• The Deer Lodge 2261 Maricopa Highway, Ojai (805) 646-4256 deerlodgeojai.com

Just outside of the Ojai city limits on Highway 33 is The World Famous Deer Lodge. Established in 1932, this longtime staple of Ojai nightlife is currently owned by the wonderful Ojai native Sophia Miles.

After a few ups and That vortex downs in the recent most certainly past, Sophia has exists in this steadied the ship tiny town’s over the last threemusical and-a-half years, offerings. and has brought Ojai has been it back to its glory (and is) home days. In order to to so many create quality over famous actors, quantity, she has directors, and limited the music musicians that to two or three it makes the nights each week. head spin. It This allows her to isn’t uncommon direct her resources to roll into a to take care of the music night musicians properly. in one of the Instituting a small places noted cover charge here only to Photo by Dawn Rosa was another way find Grammy The Vine, Ruben Salinas of the Animals with the Rose Valley Thorns. that she showed Award winners her care for the playing to a musicians (100 percent of that cover charge goes directly to couple of dozen local denizens and loving every minute of it. them).

A few years ago, I had a conversation with one such musician Walking into The Deer Lodge is akin to going back in time — a who is used to regularly playing in front of tens of thousands of time when Ojai was a small farming community and hunting was adoring fans. This was after a gig at a local favorite, The Village probably the only entertainment to be had. The sturdy tables and Jester. There were probably 15 people in the place watching five chairs appear to have been rough-hewn that morning from the world-class players perform for over two hours. I asked him if it Los Padres National Forest just a couple miles up the road. And, was boring playing for a couple dozen people in a small bar. He then, there are the “trophies” on the walls. It may not be a place said that playing small gigs was really scary because he could see “the whites of people’s eyes” and he knew when they weren’t for a PETA fanatic, but for the rest of us, it gives an equal sense of history, fascination, and unease. engaged. But, also that he enjoyed those small gigs more than anything else because they made him feel alive, and reconnected Parked in a corner of the bar is a raised stage where all sorts of him to his music. bands take up residence. Sophia grew up near Ojai’s downtown When you arrive in Ojai, you will find a sedate, restrained little Libbey Bowl and was lulled to sleep by whatever type of music town that appears to roll up its sidewalks at 8 pm. At least, was playing there. Wafting through her curtains would have been 60

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everything fromfrom Beethoven to punk to any of famous connection of the ofartist the artist and and the originality the originality of the ofmusic. the music.

Cover Cover everything Beethoven to punk to number any number of famous connection bands.

The music on offer at The as the call it, bands are definitely are definitely not Topa not Topa Topa’s Topa’s bag,bag, although although everyevery bands.

The music on offer at Lodge, The Lodge, aslocals the locals call it, bands reflects that that upbringing.

On Friday and Saturday nights, expect will tend will tend to slip to aslip couple a couple in. While in. While not exactly not exactly promoting promoting reflects upbringing.

On Friday and Saturday nights, expect artistartist jazz,jazz, rock,rock, punk,punk, silentsilent electronic dance parties, and singerthemselves themselves as a as music a music venue, venue, givengiven the depth the depth of the oflocal the local talent talent electronic dance parties, and singersongwriters.

A particularly goodgood nightnight is ledisby Phillips, it is impossible it is impossible not to notblend to blend TopaTopa Topa’s Topa’s “Good “Good VibesVibes and and songwriters.

A particularly ledSimon

by Simon Phillips, poolpool the drummer for Toto.

Simon brings together a bevy of L.A. Beer”Beer” motto motto with with goodgood music. music.

TopaTopa TopaTopa tendstends to present to present the drummer for Toto.

Simon brings together a bevy of jazz L.A. jazz GoodGood musicians for the as hisasschedule permits.

Check the Deer on Thursday on Thursday nights nights and and occasionally occasionally on Saturdays. on Saturdays.

Don’tDon’t musicians forevent the event his schedule permits.

Check the Deermusicmusic Lodge website for details on their offerings.

And,And, whilewhile you’re about about hearing hearing the music; the music; the place the place has garage has garage stylestyle Lodge website for details on their offerings. you’re worryworry therethere treattreat yourself to a to tri-tip sandwich.

Tell them NigelNigel sent sent you! you! doorsdoors that that swingswing widewide openopen to the tooutside the outside patio. patio.

There, There, you can you can yourself a tri-tip sandwich.

Tell them eat some eat some of the offabulous the fabulous foodfood fromfrom the Sama the Sama SamaSama restaurant restaurant • Majestic • Majestic OakOak Vineyard Vineyard Tasting Tasting Room Room counter counter nestled nestled inside, inside, whilewhile imbibing imbibing one of oneTopa of Topa Topa’s Topa’s handhand312 312 E Ojai E Ojai Ave.,Ave., OjaiOjai crafted crafted beers. beers.

I recently I recently ate the atemind-blowingly the mind-blowingly goodgood babybaby(805) (805) 794-0272 794-0272 backback ribs. ribs.

Ribs Ribs to dream to dream about, about, I kid Iyou kid not. you not. majesticoakvineyard.com majesticoakvineyard.com • The • The VineVine & Feros & Feros Ferio Ferio Winery Winery The family-owned The family-owned Majestic Majestic Oak Oak Vineyard Vineyard Tasting Tasting RoomRoom is is 308 308 E Ojai E Ojai Ave.,Ave., OjaiOjai located located downdown a flight a flight of stairs of stairs below below ground ground level,level, and and offers offers (805) (805) 302-2784 302-2784 greatgreat tastings tastings of their of their own own winewine curated curated not five not miles five miles fromfrom The Vine & Feros & Feros FerioFerio Winery Winery took took over over fromfrom The Village The Village JesterJester the tasting the tasting room.room.

Ojai Ojai localslocals for generations, for generations, the Gustafsons the Gustafsons The Vine as of onethe ofmain the main musicmusic scenes scenes in Ojai in Ojai whenwhen a water a water mainmain knowknow whatwhat makes makes Ojai Ojai tick —tick and — and one of onethose of those things things is music. is music. as one and devastated and devastated The Jester The Jester building building five years five years ago.ago.

It is still It is still If youIf happen you happen by onbyany on given any given Saturday Saturday and and Sunday Sunday afternoon afternoon brokebroke beingbeing rebuilt. rebuilt.

Full disclosure: Full disclosure: between between 2 and 2 and 5 pm,5 you pm, you the writer the writer of this of article this article is is will probably will probably be fortunate be fortunate also also the owner the owner of both of both The The enough enough to listen to listen to some to some of of Village Village JesterJester and the andVine the Vine the best the best singer-songwriters singer-songwriters & Feros & Feros FerioFerio Winery.

Winery.

But But northnorth of Mexico. of Mexico.

Now,Now, for for sincesince we’rewe’re talking talking about about live live recruitment recruitment purposes, purposes, it it weekly weekly musicmusic venues venues in Ojai, in Ojai, certainly certainly doesn’t doesn’t hurt hurt that that my editor my editor said said we’dwe’d be remiss be remiss family family member member Micah Micah not to notinclude to include them.them.

Gustafson Gustafson is a top is a quality top quality musician musician himself himself and and has has The Vine The Vine is a restaurant, is a restaurant, bar, bar, played played in some in some top level top level and winery and winery all rolled all rolled into one. into one. bands bands over over the years. the years.

But, what But, what it’s really it’s really known known for for is theismusic the music that that pourspours out out Majestic Majestic Oak Oak is anisintimate an intimate of itsofdoors its doors and down and down Ojai Ojai space space and and the music the music takestakes Avenue Avenue everyevery nightnight except except placeplace on their on their beautiful beautiful for Tuesday. for Tuesday.

Boasting Boasting a baby a baby outside outside patio,patio, so it so does it does PhotoPhoto submitted submitted grand grand piano piano on its on low its stage, low stage, not get not the getfull theelectric full electric Amber Amber and and Smoke Smoke performing performing at the at Deer the Deer Lodge.

Lodge. whenwhen you walk you walk into this into small this small treatment. treatment.

But what But what you you placeplace you’llyou’ll find more find more thanthan 50 50 will get will are get very are very high-end high-end beers, ciders, ciders, and alcoholic and alcoholic Kombuchas, Kombuchas, in addition in addition to a to fullabar full bar musicians musicians in ones, in ones, twos,twos, and/or and/or threes, threes, playing playing for the forsheer the sheer joy joybeers, andown its own winewine label,label, FerosFeros Ferio.Ferio.

The music The music offerings offerings change change of playing, of playing, and and beingbeing watched watched by other by other high-end high-end musicians musicians who whoand its everyevery Friday Friday and Saturday. and Saturday.

The weekdays The weekdays and Sunday and Sunday nightnight bringbring are listening are listening for the forsheer the sheer joy ofjoylistening. of listening.

GrabGrab a glass, a glass, a bottle, a bottle, residencies for some for some amazing amazing individuals/bands. individuals/bands.

However, However, localslocals and/or and/or a fullatasting full tasting flight;flight; then,then, as the asgreat the great BryanBryan FerryFerry put itput it residencies that that Wednesday Wednesday and Sunday and Sunday nights nights are the aresweetest the sweetest of of “(be)“(be) in with in with the ‘in’ thecrowd. ‘in’ crowd.

KnowKnow whatwhat the ‘in’ thecrowd ‘in’ crowd knows.” knows.” knowknow the sweet. the sweet.

On Wednesdays On Wednesdays starting starting at 7:30 at 7:30 pm, you pm, can you expect can expect • Topa • Topa Topa Topa Brewing Brewing Company Company to find to the findrocking the rocking yet soulful yet soulful and heartfelt and heartfelt bluesblues of the oftalented the talented 345345 E Ojai E Ojai Ave.,Ave., OjaiOjai multi-instrumentalist, multi-instrumentalist, singer/songwriter singer/songwriter T.D. Lind.

T.D. Lind.

He isHe often is often (805) (805) 798-9079 798-9079 joined joined

by Big byBad Big Bad Voodoo Voodoo Daddy’s Daddy’s Karl Hunter Karl Hunter on saxophone, on saxophone, topatopa.beer topatopa.beer and watching and watching themthem play play together together is a joy is atojoybehold. to behold.

TopaTopa TopaTopa Brewing Brewing Co. isCo. justis ajust couple a couple of doors of doors downdown fromfrom Sundays Sundays at 7:30 at 7:30 pm, Danny pm, Danny McGaw McGaw and The and 33 Thehave 33 have built built up anup an Majestic Majestic Oak Oak and and is a relatively is a relatively new new addition addition to Ojai’s to Ojai’s booming boomingenthusiastic enthusiastic following following for their for their five-piece five-piece bandband that that features features a a downtown. downtown.

Co-founder Co-founder and and Ojai Ojai resident resident JackJack DyerDyer is anis an cast cast of accomplished of accomplished (and(and Grammy-honored) Grammy-honored) musicians. musicians.

You’llYou’ll indefatigable indefatigable optimist. optimist.

NeverNever without without a kind a kind wordword to say toor say or get nothing get nothing but originals but originals that that you’llyou’ll swear swear you’ve you’ve heardheard before before — — smilesmile on hisonface, his face, he ishe asisgenuine as genuine a person a person as one as could one could ever ever and will andwant will want to hear to hear again. again. hopehope to meet. to meet.

JackJack is allisabout all about community community spiritspirit and and supporting supporting the communities the communities that that support support his business. his business.

That That beingbeing the the So, Ojai!

So, Ojai!

Not quite Not quite the bucolic the bucolic little little towntown you thought you thought you were you were case,case, TopaTopa TopaTopa has ahas strong a strong preference preference toward toward locallocal artists. artists. walking walking into. into.

The best The best advice advice I canI give can give you when you when you get you into get into The music The music genre genre is lessis important less important thanthan the individual the individual locallocal town:town: Ask aAsk local! a local! california101guide.com

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CALIFORNIA 101 Mind, Body, and Soul

CA 101

Body Essentials of Ojai Wellness Spa 236 W. Ojai Ave., #101, Ojai, CA 93023

(805) 646-7600 www.bodyessentialsojai.net

Voted 2018 BEST DAY SPA & BEST FACIAL Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Ojai, Body Essentials is the valley’s oldest day spa. Using a holistic approach with an emphasis on stress reduction, and the balance of mind, body and spirit, we offer a wide variety of relaxing, detoxifying and revitalizing spa treatments. Our team of professionals provide excellent customer service in a beautiful environment where our guests are truly cared for. Give us a call today and enjoy state-of-the-art wellness delivered with Ojai love!

The Day Spa of Ojai 209 N. Montgomery St., Ojai, CA 93023

(805) 640-1100 www.thedayspa.com

Our mission is to offer a place of tranquility and rejuvenation. A place where one can come to mend … to rest their body and their mind. A quiet place to reconnect with the spirit within. We will do all we can to make you feel comfortable … to take care of you… to help bring you back to an energized feeling of well being. The therapists at The Day Spa of Ojai are highly trained to recognize and apply our various treatments and products to your specific needs. The professional and personalized skin analysis and recommendations you will receive at The Day Spa of Ojai are simply not available at your local department or drug store.

Bamboo Creek Spa 1002 E. Ojai Ave., Suite B, Ojai, CA 93023

(805) 299-5899 www.bamboocreekspa.com

Open every day 10am - 10pm (except Tuesday 11am - 8 pm) Bamboo Creek Spa is a sanctuary located in downtown Ojai, California. Opened in 2012 by Alice Ramsay, a Chinese native now living in the USA, the spa is an outgrowth of Alice’s desire to bring massage to more people at modest prices. Hot oil massage - Allows for deep finger pressure and slow firm strokes, releasing chronic patterns of tension and stress. Reflexology - An ancient Chinese healing therapy that stimulates the entire body and brings on natural healing properties. Hot Stone Therapy - Hot stones bring heat to sore, stiff muscles, restoring energy and balance while melting away tension.

AA Relaxing Station 323 E. Matilija St., Ojai, Ca 93023

HORSE, HEART & CONNECTION

(805) 640-1602

Wed - Mon: 10am - 10pm • Tues: 10am - 8pm

services A n Both E qmenu iand n ewomen E xcan p efind r iprofessional e n c e i nspa O j a i to, suit C their a l ineeds f o r atn Ojai’s i a AA Relaxing

Station. Reduce stress and unwanted knots with a full body massage. Seeking alternative remedies like physiotherapy? This spa can help you with all of your needs. Stop going to places that make you wait days or even weeks for an appointment. This spa lets you come in when you’re ready with their convenient walk-in spiritual policy. CustomersExplore at AA Relaxing Station willwellness, love the simple and nearby street parking options.

mindfulness and embodied

Enhanced Day Spa intuition with the horse as 439 W. El Roblar Dr., Ojai, Ca 93023

(805) 746-6476

your mirror - with Equine www.enhancedojai.com Mon 10am - 8pm • TuesFacilitated 10am - 4pm • ThurLearning 10am - 8pm • Fri 10am - 4pm • Saturday 10am - 5pm The crème de la crème of the OjaiAndrea Valley for our signature massages, medi-spa custom facials, lash teacher, Gaines extensions by our valley’s master lash artist, professional makeup, tanning, sugaring hair removal, and the most sought after spa for couples treatments and private parties, along with our Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna and our Purifying Acne Clinic. You will find that most of the services offered at Enhanced can not be found or duplicated anywhere else in the county.

Small group s es s ions a nd

Equ i n e F a ci l i ta te d L e arn in g

New Leaf Skin Care, Spa & Boutique 307 E. Ojai Ave., #101, Ojai, CA 93023

i s an o p p o r tun i t y t o be w it h hor s es, w i th ou t riding,

Sat 10:30am – 5pm • Sun - Mon Closed t o ex p l o r e yo u r in t uTuesit ive

privates , maxim um 6 participant s.

(805) 640-9911 www.newleafojai.com Cultivate your inner k nowing

with hors es Since 1999, New Leaf has been growing, and I have gathered a team of professionals committed to .the same vision. Together with all of the wonderful clients we have served, we’ve blossomed into a thriving place of personal n a tu r e, no n -ve rbal retreat. We at New Leaf have created an environment which encourages the ultimate relaxation experience. c o mmu n i ca ti o n an d be you Using onlyrthe finest, non-toxic products, our highly effective treatments (847) are done with 971-3643 loving care and nurturing touch. We are proudly an environmentally conscientious business. At New Leaf, it is our policy to practice and a uthenti c se lf.encourage others to keep the earth in mind with each choice we make Instagram: in everyday@horseheartandconnection life and in business.

Andre a G a i n es

horseheartandconnection.com

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Ojai Cafe’ Emporium, a turn key,well established breakfast and lunch restaurant , located in the heart of downtown Ojai . Prime location steps away from all of Ojai’s events and attractions. Ojai Cafe’ Emporium has for over 34 years addressed the need in the community for a warm and friendly dining experience for family, friends and business. A family tradition for every generation serving high quality, fresh and healthy food. And if you crave something sweet, there is an adjoining bakery producing fresh baked goods every morning. Take advantage of this prime piece of commercial real estate with a fully operational up and running business.

108 S Montgomery St Ojai, 93023 $2,200,000

128 Apricot St Oak View, 93022 Very nice 3 Bedroom 2 bath home.

Vaulted ceilings. Beautiful kitchen .Separate laundry room.1 car attached garage plus an attached carport with deck on top. Nice storage shed as well. On demand water heater. Easy care front and rear fenced yard areas. Easy commute to Ventura.

128 Apricot St Oak View, 93022 $569,000

35 years in the business in the Ojai Valley

Tom Weber, Broker 414 Stuart Ct. Ojai, CA 93023 DRE#00805061

805-320-2004

tomweberrealtor@sbcglobal.net

ojaitom.com

Oak Ranch Estates Excellent move in ready condition. 1800+ sq.ft. 3 bedroom 21/2 bath , Open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Oversized two car garage. Master bedroom with slider to rear deck. 20000 sq.ft. lot backing to natural wooded area which offers great privacy.

Common area horse facilities with riding arena , stalls and trails. Easy 5-10 minute commute to Ojai or Ventura..

433 Sunset St Oak View, 93022 $759,000

Get in touch with us so we can let our readers know where to go and enjoy the areas.

IN PRINT

10 0 0 +

IUM M E R P

UC PROD

TS

If you would like more business at your business, then get seen in the California 101 Travelers Guide.

With 30,000 printed high quality magazines quarterly, distributed to over 300 highly traveled places up and down Highway 101, and a readership of nearly 400,000 annually. (based on 3.2 readers per magazine).

DIGITAL A complimentary smartphone and tablet compatible digital version of each issue of California 101 Travelers Guide is viewable online at california101guide.com SOCIAL California 101 Travelers Guide engages with our audience via our social media channels: facebook.com/california101travelersguide, and on Instagram: @ca101travel In Each Issue: Everything travelers need to know about your town • Lodging • Dining • Entertainment • Night Life • Current Events • Unique History Stories • Real Estate • Wine Tasting • Spas • Golf Courses • Things to do • Outdoor Adventures • Arts & Culture

For more info and to advertise contact Mike Dawkins (833) 805-0101 x 101 or mdawkins@ca101guide.com california101guide.com

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Wilde

Larry 805.640.5734

Erik 805.830.3254

Thacher Road | Classic 1908 “Julia Morgan� Architect | $2,750,000

25+ Acres | Thacher Road Well Water | $2,495,000

Oh What Views & Privacy | East End incredible Detail & Quality | $2,395,000

Thacher Road| 5+ Acres Nine Rentals | $3,495,000

Charming Meiners Oaks Home $445,000 | 135lomita.com

Downtown Ojai | Great Location Guest House | $975,000

Walk to Town | Classic Charm | 1.7 Acres $1,775,000 | www.westeucalyptus.com

Bryant Circle Industrial | 2400 SF | Currently Leased Solar | Roll Up Doors | $945,000

Larry Wilde began his real estate career in Ojai in 1975, and by 1978, together with his partner Dennis Guernsey, formed their own Real estate business. Today it is the premier brokerage in the Ojai Valley.

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Rancho Matilija | Full Guest House Pool/Spa | $1,895,000

Downtown Ojai | Private | 1.5 Acres $1,349,500 | 811canada.com

Upper Ojai | 20 Acre Farm | 5000 SF Home + Guest Quarters | $3,375,000| 12150mountainlionroad.com

Downtown Ojai Fully Renovated Custom Home | $779,000

Commercial Lot in Ojai $375,000

East End Ojai Craftsman | $1,925,000 1615McNellRoad.com

727 W. Ojai Ave. - Ojai - CA 93023 - Larry - 805.640.5734 - Erik - 805.830.3254 wilde-wilde.com - lwilde@west.net - erikw@west.net Larry Wilde DRE:#15216270 - Erik Wile DRT:#01461074

california101guide.com

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SOAK UP THE SUDS:

CENTRAL COAST CRAFT BREWERIES

by Bill Warner

The state of California is arguably the cradle of the U.S. economy’s current craft beer phenomenon.

That’s particularly true if you trace that phenomenon’s beginnings to 1965, the year in which Frederick Maytag bought and refurbished the faltering Anchor Brewing Co. in San Francisco. To be sure, the subsequent industry growth was slow for a couple of decades. Anchor’s example was followed by the Sonoma-based New Albion Brewery in 1977, and the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. which set up shop in Chico about three years later. By 1990, according to the California Craft Brewers Association (CCBA), fewer than 70 microbreweries were operating in the state.

No matter where you are on the Central Coast, there’s a killer craft brewery in your area.

Here are some of our regional favorites:

Firestone Taproom

But the industry has steadily grown since then. In the year 2000, California had 623 craft breweries; by 2017, it has grown to close to 1,000 today.

No fewer than 45 locally produced craft brews can be enjoyed in California 101 country — the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. These range from the widely distributed ales of the Firestone Walker Brewing Co., brewed in Paso Robles, to the elusive, though no less palatable offerings of Ventura County’s Smoke Mountain Brewery (smokemtn. com), available through beer club membership only.

It’s with great pride, then, we invite you to have a look around and try a tasting or two. And here’s a partial list to help you along your way.

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Firestone Taproom

Dead Oak Brewing Co. california101guide.com

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY • Firestone Walker Brewing Co. Founded in 1996, Firestone is now one of the largest craft breweries in California and, for that matter, the United States. The rich flavors of its brews are attributed to an early, relatively unique system of fermentation in oak barrels.

Firestone beers are served and sold practically everywhere. If you want to tour the brewery, it’s in Paso Robles — right off the 101 (reservations are recommended).

1400 Ramada Dr., Paso Robles (805) 225-5911 firestonebeer.com • Dead Oak Brewing Co. Regular evenings of bingo, board games, and live music are all a part of Dead Oak’s down-home taproom, just around the corner from the pleasant Sunken Gardens of Atascadero.

Oh, yes, there’s great beer, too — including rich Belgian and Bavarian-style ales, tangy IPAs, and the ever-popular refreshing Dead Oak Light.

5925 Entrada Ave., Atascadero (805) 464-2710 deadoakbrewing.com • Silva Brewing Silva Brewing offers a variety of small batch ales, seasonals, sours, porters, and stouts prepared by a husband-and-wife team of brewers. From a menu of 20 different blends, the tasting room offers 11 on tap as well as a complete selection for sale in growlers, crowlers, bottles, and kegs. Pick your poison!

525 Pine St., Ste. B, Paso Robles (805) 369-2337 (369-BEER) silvabrewing.com • Tin City Cider The brainchild of two longtime winemakers, Tin City Cider ferments the finest of California apples with an assortment of exotic accents. The pineapple-flavored Parrothead will appeal to all Jimmy Buffet fans, while the aptly named Bunny Lebowski imbues the glass with a heady blend of pear, nectar, and malt.

3005 Limestone Way, Paso Robles (805) 293-6349 tincitycider.com

• Bittersweet Brewing Co. A family-owned and operated microbrewery, Bittersweet has made its way from garage batches to a full-blown brewery and tasting room over the course of the past decade. Firmly rooted in the Central Coast, the company’s blonde ales, IPAs, weizens, and stouts make use of local ingredients whenever possible.

191 S Oak Park Blvd., Ste. 3, Grover Beach (805) 947-3339 bittersweetbrewing.com

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY • The Apiary If you thought the fine art of beekeeping boiled down to little more than a lot of cross-pollination and honey, well, think again.

It also boils down to mead, a venerable beverage with its roots in time immemorial. And you can sip a beaker of it today — or any of a fine line of ciders and kombuchas — at The Apiary.

4191 Carpinteria Ave. #10, Carpinteria (805) 684-6216 theapiary.co • Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. Founded in Buellton less than a decade ago, “Fig Mountain” is one of the truly notable craft beer success stories, boasting taprooms in Santa Barbara, Los Olivos, Arroyo Grande, Buellton, Santa Maria, and Westlake Village, along with a range of distribution now covering most of California and parts of Arizona. The Figueroa brews cover an equally impressive spectrum of just about anything you could look for in a great glass of beer. Check the website for their full list of taprooms.

45 Industrial Way, Buellton (805) 694-2252 x110 figmtnbrew.com • Night Lizard Brewing Co. Some breweries have names you just can’t resist. Night Lizard fits that category pretty well, but its beers are downright irresistible, too. Not only that, but the company is committed to saving the planet “one beer at a time,” steering 10 percent of the brewery’s proceeds to conservation programs. Sometimes, you just gotta step up and do your part!

607 State St., Santa Barbara (805) 770-2956 nightlizardbrewingcompany.com

• Hollister Brewing Company - Goleta

6980 Marketplace Dr., (Camino Real Marketplace) Goleta, CA 93117 (805) 968-2810 hollisterbrewco.com Hollister Brewing Company (HBC) was established in May 2007 with a vision of creating a fun, relaxing establishment offering handcrafted beer to complement handcrafted food.

We are a locally owned and operated brewpub and our goal is to provide and maintain a comfortable, unpretentious environment that appeals to our local clientele as well as beer and food aficionados from around the country. We’re here to exceed expectations, to introduce people to things they may not have had before, and to do it in a fun and educational way. california101guide.com

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• Solvang Brewing Co. The city of Solvang’s Danish heritage is abundantly evident in its architecture, pastries, celebrations, museums and, not least, its beer — for which the Solvang Brewing Co.’s Great Dane Pale Ale and Valhalla IPA set the standard. These brews can be enjoyed at the company’s restaurant locations in Solvang and Lompoc, the latter being the site of the main brewery, which you can tour.

1547 Mission St., Solvang (805) 688-2337 (688-BEER) solvangbrewing.com • Naughty Oak Brewing Co. Lagers, blondes, sours, and stouts figure among the refreshing fare at Naughty Oak’s brewery and taproom. The Gold Digger lemon sour, in fact, might be the perfect accent for any summer afternoon in the gentle, rolling landscape north of Point Conception. Or maybe it’s the Staycation blonde ale with a touch of mango.

165 Broadway St. #102, Orcutt (805) 287-9663 naughtyoak.com • Third Window Brewing The Mill, a century-old group of buildings on Haley Street, is the artfully restored setting for a winery-brewery-restaurant combination. Here you’ll find Third Window’s taproom, serving seasonal lagers and IPA staples in the full spirit of farm-totable fare.

406 E Haley St. #3, Santa Barbara (805) 979-5090 thirdwindowbrewing.com

VENTURA COUNTY • Ojai Valley Brewery If you happen to be in the vicinity of Ojai on a hot summer day, nothing quite cuts the dust like a cold glass of the hometown Ojai Valley Brewery’s sagebrush-seasoned Chaparral Ale. You’ll find the official taproom inside Azu Restaurant.

457 E Ojai Ave., Ojai (805) 640-7987 ojaivalleybrewery.com • Topa Topa Brewing Co. From its Level Line pale ale to its Tux nitro milk stout, Topa Topa brews some of the most memorable pints ever pulled in the region. IPA fans will be hard-pressed to top their Chief Peak.

Based in Ventura at 104 E. Thompson Blvd., the brewery has additional taprooms in Ojai (345 E Ojai Ave.) and Santa Barbara (120 Santa Barbara St.).

(805) 628-9255 topatopa.beer

Leashless Brewing

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• Casa Agria Specialty Ales From delicate to robust, this brewery’s boutique blends reflect the local flavors of citrus and berries as well as far-flung touches of coffees and exotic hops. Food trucks are onsite intermittently, and the dog-friendly tasting room is open throughout the week.

Check the website for hours.

701 N Del Norte Blvd., Oxnard (805) 485-1454 casaagria.com • Enegren Brewing Co. Whether you go for the fine-drawn helles lager (The Lightest One) or the heavyweight smoked bockbier (The Big Meat), the palette at Enegren is distinctly German. Served in more than 50 restaurants and brewpubs from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, the brewery features an onsite tasting room, too.

444 Zachary St. #120, Moorpark (805) 552-0602 enegrenbrewing.com • Red Tandem Brewery Red Tandem’s cozy and inviting tasting room features high ceilings, corrugated tin accents, and bright red bar stools in a nod to its name. But perhaps its best bit of decor is the smell of the ocean, which is just a block away.

There are craft breweries and microbreweries ... and now, there are nano-breweries. Red Tandem Brewery is one of the latter, with just seven ales brewed onsite. But though they be small, they sure be mighty — their Double C-Hag Imperial IPA won first place in the 2017 Surf N Suds in Carpinteria. As they say, “this is a serious 10 percent beer,” featuring almost every commerciallyavailable hop that starts with the letter C (and a few others like Warrior and Amarillo, for good measure).

1009 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard Shores (805) 832-4023 oxnardbrewery.com

• Leashless Brewing Leashless Brewing is quintessentially California. This organic brewery is just steps from the beach. (Literally — it’s one block from the sand!) Owner John Gonzales grew up in Carpinteria, where he spent many long days surfing and scuba diving.

Leashless combines his love of the environment with his passion for eating organic … and, of course, his love of beer! With organic grains, yeast, and hops, John and his team have a deep dedication for brewing natural and GMO-free. Their tasting room follows similar standards: it is bike-friendly, totally Styrofoam-free, and smoking (even vaping) is not allowed on the property or in the parking lot. Dogs, however, are welcome!

585 E Thompson Blvd., Ventura (805) 628-9474 leashlessbrewing.com

Ojai Valley Brewery

Topa Topa Brewing Co. california101guide.com

CRAFT BREWERIES LIST

by Bill Warner No matter where you are on the Central Coast, there’s a killer craft brewery in your area.

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY • BarrelHouse Brewing Co. 3055 Limestone Way, Paso Robles (805) 296-1128 barrelhousebrewing.com • Earth and Fire Brewing Co. 825 Riverside Ave. #1, Paso Robles (805) 270-2959 earth-and-fire-brewing-company. business.site • Tent City Beer Co. 6760 El Camino Real, Atascadero (805) 460-6454 tentcitybeer.com • Toro Creek Brewing Co. 1111 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles (at Second Press) (805) 550-7007 torocreekbrewingcompany.com • Dunbar Brewing Public House 2200 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita (805) 438-4251 dunbarbrewing.com • Three Stacks and A Rock Brewing Co. 3118 Main St. Ste. D, Morro Bay (805) 771-9286 threestacksandarockbrewing.com

• 7 Sisters Brewing Co. 181 Tank Farm Rd. Ste. 110, San Luis Obispo (805) 868-7133 7sistersbrewing.com

• Santa Maria Brewery & Tasting Room 1451 Fairway Dr., Santa Maria (805) 922-2225 santamariabrewing.co

• Pismo Brewing Co. 500 Cypress St. Ste. S2, Pismo Beach (805) 295-6200 pismobrew.com

• Rincon Brewery 5065 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria (805) 684-6044 rinconbrewery.com

• Blessed Brewing 660 Clarion Ct., San Luis Obispo (805) 222-4805 blessedbrewing.com

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY • Captain Fatty’s Brewery 6489 Calle Real Ste D, Goleta captainfattys.com • Draughtsmen Aleworks 53 Santa Felicia Dr., Goleta (805) 387-2577 draughtsmenaleworks.com • M. Special Brewing Co. 6860 Cortona Drive Ste C, Goleta (805) 968-6500 mspecialbrewco.com • Telegraph Brewing Co. 418 N Salsipuedes St., Santa Barbara (805) 963-5018 telegraphbrewing.com

• Island Brewing Co. 5049 6th St., Carpinteria (805) 745-8272 islandbrewingcompany.com • BrewLab 4191 Carpinteria Ave. #8, Carpinteria (507) 319-5665 brewlabcraft.com

VENTURA COUNTY • Institution Ale Company 3841 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo (805) 482-3777 institutionales.com • Concrete Jungle Brewing Project 4561 Market St., Ventura (805) 650-4816 instagram@cjbrewing concretejunglebrewery.com • Anacapa Brewing Co. 472 E Main St., Ventura (805) 643-BEER (2337) anacapabrewing.com

• Central Coast Brewing 1422 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo (805) 783-BREW (2739) centralcoastbrewing.com

• Pure Order Brewing Co. 410 N Quarantina St., Santa Barbara (805) 966-2881 pureorderbrewing.com

• Libertine Brewing Co. 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo (805) 548-2337 libertinebrewing.com

• Brass Bear Brewing & Bistro 28 Anacapa St. # E, Santa Barbara (805) 770-7651 brassbearbrewing.com

• Bang the Drum Brewery 950 Orcutt Rd., San Luis Obispo (805) 242-8372 bangthedrumbrewery.com

• The Brewhouse 229 W Montecito St., Santa Barbara (805) 884-4664 sbbrewhouse.com

• MadeWest Brewing Co. 1744 Donlon St., Ventura (805) 947-5002 madewest.com

• SLO Brew 736 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo (805) 543-1843 www.slobrew.com

• Firestone Barrelworks 620 McMurray Rd., Buellton (805) 697-4777 firestonebeer.com/visit/buellton.php

• Poseidon Brewing Co. 5777 Olivas Park Dr. Unit Q, Ventura (805) 477-0239 poseidonbrewingco.com

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• Ventura Coast Brewing Co. 76 S Oak St., Ventura (805) 667-8640 vcbc.beer

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CALIFORNIA 101 Dining Guide

— OJAI

CA 101

Jim & Rob’s Fresh Grill 214 W. Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023 www.jimandrobsojai.com (805) 640-1301 Voted Best Burrito & Best Burger in town! Proudly serving locals & visitors for over 21 years!

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Veggie, Vegan & G-free items available!

Margaritas, Seasonal Cocktails, Craft Beers • Happy Hours 3-6 pm Mon-Fri, Sports on 5 HDTVs! Restaurant open @8am Daily Enjoy a drink on the patio! Cantina open @12pm M-F, 11am S-S

Sakura Ojai Japanese Restaurant 219 E. Matilija St., Ojai, CA 93023 www.sakuraojai.com (805) 646-8777 Mon - Thur - 11:30 - 2:30/5:00 - 9:30 • Fri - 11:30 - 2:30/5:00 - 10:00 • Sat - 11:30 - 10:00 • Sun - 11:30 - 9:30 • Sushi, Roll• Vegetarian Dishes • Teppan Yaki (Salmon, Shrimp, Chicken, Beef, Rib Eye Steak) • Soup and Noodles • Salad and More!

Home Kitchen of Ojai 1103 Maricopa Hwy., Ojai, CA 93023 www.homekitchenofojai.com (805) 646-5346

Monday - Saturday - 7am– 2pm Sunday - 7am – 2pm With many years of experience cooking, our chef is excited to present his vision to you and all our guests. Our caring and committed staff will ensure you have a fantastic experience with us.

Our restaurant is available for private events: business lunches, special events and more. We would love to discuss how to be a part of your next event.

We refuse to compromise on quality in our restaurant. That’s why we source our fresh ingredients from local farmers’ markets.

Ojai Cafe Emporium 108 S. Montgomery St., Ojai, CA 93023 www. ojaicafeemporium.com (805) 646-2723 Open 7 days a week from 7am till 3pm Serving the Ojai Valley since 1985.

A favorite Breakfast and Lunch spot for locals and visitors.

Voted Best Bakery, Breakfast and Lunch. Beautiful outdoor dining as well as indoors. Visit our Bakery located in the front of the building, featuring fresh baked goods and coffee bar.

We are known for our fresh food and extensive menu, you’re sure to find something to please everyone.

We look forward to serving you soon.

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CALIFORNIA 101 Dining Guide

— OJAI

CA 101

Bonnie Lu’s Country Cafe 328 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023 (805) 646-0207 Open Daily for Breakfast & Lunch 7am - 2:30pm • Closed Wednesdays We are a charming country cafe serving good fixin’s with a smile!

An Ojai favorite classic American diner since 1995.

Traditional comfort food including farm-fresh omelets, homemade soups, and hearty sandwiches made with ingredients from local distributors.

Ca’ Marco Ristorante 1002 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023 (805) 640-1048 www. camarcoojai.com Ca’ Marco has become a hit in Ojai with its inviting atmosphere and delicious authentic Italian dishes. On warm days guests enjoy the patio with views to the back nine of the Soule Park Golf Course.

When it chills up they cozy up inside near the fireplace.

No matter where you sit, you bask in that sweet spot between fine dining and comfort food that Ca’ Marco has managed to master.

The food is prepared to impress, from the fresh bread and dipping sauce brought to the table, to the thoughtfully constituted salads, to the homemade pizza and large, interesting wine list.

Sea Fresh Seafood 533 E Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023 (805) 646-7747 Restaurant, Sushi Bar and Fresh Fish Market Mon - Thu, Sun 8am - 9pm — Fri - Sat - 8am - 10pm Celebrating 32 years Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Open daily 8am - 10pm (call for summer hours) Home of the $2.50 Mimosas and $4 Bloody Marys and Margaritas.

All Day Everyday.

Hakane Sushi 967 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023 www. hakanesushi.com (805) 640-3070 “We treat our fish with care from the heart” • Locally Owned Patio Dining • Pet Friendly Patio • Wine & Beer • Variety of Cold Sake, Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials • Vegetarian Menu • Seasonal Hot Soups Available Check out our Fish Art Gallery

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Buddhas to Birthday Cards

OJAI HOUSE m

a

and a Huge Selection of Crystals

est. 2000 ...

um

Bumperstickers to Beeswax

ys tical empori

INTUITIVE READERS DAILY Tarot Readers Spiritual Counselors Astrologers Chair Massage & Energy Healing

OPEN DAILY 11-6

304 N. Montgomery Street, Ojai, CA

2 blocks north of Ojai Avenue & A World Apart!

805.640.1656 • OjaiHouse.com •

nutmegs_ojai_

Ask us about ou r Honey Club!

Visit our Honey Tasting Room: 206 East Ojai Avenue, in the Arcade, downtown Ojai www.heavenlyhoneycompany.com | 805-633-9103 72

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paintings

Georges Braque André Derain Jacob van Hulsdonck June 27 – September 1 2019

canvas and paper

311 N. Montgomery Street Ojai California 93023

Thursday – Sunday noon – 5pm

canvasandpaper.org

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California 101 Golf Trail Santa Barbara County

PHoto

By

tyLer Hendy

C

alifornia is a playground for anyone who loves the outdoors. From hiking and fishing, to surfing and camping, it would take 100 lifetimes to explore every nook and cranny of the Golden State. When you factor in the more than 900 golf courses (as estimated by Southern California PGA), California is a golfer’s dream come true.

From the rolling hills and mountain views, to the cliffs and ocean vistas, there’s no shortage of fairways and greens for every level of linksman seeking to find some new swinging grounds. All of these courses offer golf instruction, rentals, and dining that can cater to any group or individual’s specific needs. Let’s take a look at a few courses in Santa Barbara County.

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S

anta Barbara Golf Club opened for play in 1958, and since that time has been challenging golfers of all skill levels with interesting golf course architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding Santa Ynez Mountains as its dramatic backdrop. Santa Barbara Golf club is a championship 18-hole, 6,037 yard course, where depending upon which set of tees you play, the course is long enough to be a good test for even the furthest players off the tee, and strategically positioned to maximize risk and reward for those who seek an adventurous round.

Santa Barbara Golf Club

Photos by Aidan Bradley

With several local and traveling golf groups and clubs, Santa Barbara Golf Club is a wonderful place to meet new friends and socialize with family or business contacts. Located in the heart of Santa Barbara, the golf club is open and welcome for public use 365 days a year. If you’re one of the thousands of touring visitors to the area, have no doubt that you’ll find Santa Barbara Golf Club to be the best golfing value in town!

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Y

ou won’t find a hole with a bad view at Sandpiper Golf Club. Standing on the tee looking past the cliffs out over the ocean, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were at Pebble Beach.

Well manicured fairways wind past bunkers and cypress trees as the ocean greets you to the south, and the Santa Ynez Mountains tower to the north.

Several holes run cliff-side right next to the water, leaving you with sweeping vistas from tee to green.

Sandpiper Golf Club Photos Courtesy Sandpiper Golf Club

It’s not uncommon to crouch behind a putt with the shimmering blue water of the Pacific undu-lating directly behind your ball. With the sound of the waves lapping at the shore and the smell of the sea air, it can be easy to get distracted, but the 7,159 yard par 72 course will command your full atten-tion if you want to shoot low.

For more info on Sandpiper Golf Club, go to sandpipergolf.com.

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Glen Annie Golf Club

Photos Courtesy Glen Annie Golf Club

L

ike Sandpiper, Glen Annie has no shortage of breathtaking views.

Set back in the hills with an open links design, the course seem like it was carved out of the earth with a precision blade.

From the highest tee box, the views of the ocean, Santa Barbara, and the surrounding mountains are all encompassing. In late after-noon when the sun casts long shadows over tee and green, golden light spills into bunkers and across tightly mown fairways while shin-ing a warm hue over the scenery beyond.

While the course may not be considered long at 6,417 yards from the back tees, the slope rating, at 130, could spell out a more difficult round for the average weekend warrior — though with several tees to chose from, most can find a comfortable way to make it around the links.

For more info on Glen Annie Golf Club, go to glenanniegolf.com.

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CALIFORNIA 101 Golf Trail

CA 101

Simi Hills Golf Course 5031 Alamo St., Simi Valley, CA 93063 (805) 522-0803

www.simihillsgolf.com

Simi Hills Golf Course offers tree-lined rolling fairways and plush greens that will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Water hazards come into play on eight holes, and over 50 bunkers are strategically placed throughout the layout.

The course is extremely fair and fun for all golfers - just pick one of the five sets of tees to match your game, and you’ll be on your way to a great day.

Simi Hills is dedicated to providing an exceptional golf experience and one of the best values in the state.

In addition to 18 great holes of golf, Simi Hills offers exceptional practice facilities, with a lighted driving range and practice putting green, as well as chipping and bunker practice areas.

Elkins Ranch Golf Course 1386 Chambersburg Rd., Fillmore, CA 93015 (805) 524-1121 www.elkinsranchgc.com Over time, Elkins Ranch golf course has evolved and today exhibits the care and thought that have taken full advantage of its unique location and natural landscape. Magnificently framed against the backdrop of the rugged Sespe and San Cayetano Mountain ranges, five lakes come into play on nine different holes.

Several elevated tees offer breathtaking views, and the signature 17th hole (440-yard, par 4) offers an unforgettable vision of the entire Heritage Valley, with an accurate drive required to hit the fairway situated 110 feet below! This is the finest Ventura County golf course.

Soule Park Golf Course 1033 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023 (805) 646-5633

www.soulepark.com

Soule Park Golf Course is one of the Country’s most highly regarded municipal golf courses. Situated in the spectacular Ojai Valley, Soule Park was ranked the 48th best municipal golf course in the country by Golf Week magazine in 2014.

The golf course at Soule Park was originally designed by renowned architect William F. Bell in 1962. Bell was responsible for many other iconic Southern California golf courses including Torrey Pines (North and South) in San Diego and Sandpiper in Santa Barbara. In 2005 Soule Park underwent a golf course renovation led by Gil Hanse who is one of the industry’s most highly regarded modern-day golf course architects.

Sandpiper Golf Course 7925 Hollister Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93105 (805) 968-1541 www.sandpipergolf.com An inspiring combination of challenge and beauty as championship golf brings you to the edge of the Pacific Ocean. With breathtaking ocean and mountain views from every hole, Sandpiper is truly a memorable experience.

The championship golf course at Sandpiper has been rated by Golf Digest in the top twenty-five public golf courses in California and top 100 public courses in the Country.

Sandpiper combines a traditional championship golf and spectacular surroundings to provide our guests with something much more than a round of golf.

Santa Barbara Golf Club 3500 McCaw Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93105 (805) 687-7087 www.playsantabarbara.com Open to the public 365 days a year, Santa Barbara Golf Club is a well-manicured, impeccably maintained 18-hole regulation par-70 golf course with sweeping views of the Santa Ynez foothills and the Pacific Ocean.

The course measures 6,022 yards from back tees, providing a challenging game. We offer power golf cart service. Facilities include an award-winning, fully stocked golf shop and Mulligan’s Café, a full bar and restaurant with banquet facilities for up to 200+ people.

We also comply with the City of Santa Barbara’s Integrated Pest Management program, which is committed to reducing the use of harmful chemicals. Titleist Rental Clubs are available for $40/18 holes or $20/9 holes.

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Need Some Inspiration, Aspiration, Appreciation?

Ojai Studios Artists Tour is 35 Years Strong of Giving That.

Ojai has long been known as a peaceful haven for artists, as well as an ideal travel destination.

But the second weekend in October is an especially magical time as the Ojai Studio Artists throw open their studio doors to the world of art lovers.

This year marks the 35th year for the OSA Tour, the very first in California, which began with 24 local artists.

Today, the Ojai Studio Artists is a vibrant community of 70 working artists, aged 24 to 96, including talented painters, sculptors, ceramicists, glass artists, jewelry designers, woodworkers, fiber artists, and clothing designers.

Held during Columbus Day weekend on October 12, 13 and 14, the prestigious OSA Tour presents an ideal opportunity to meet OSA’s many artists and visit their unique studios in idyllic Ojai settings. The tour features two nationally known founding members, Bert Collins and Gayel Childress, as well as a whole new generation of young Ojai artists who have been carefully selected to become OSA members.

Each year OSA members jury in talented new artists.

This year there are eight new artists to visit. Since 1993, proceeds from the Tour have financed the OSA Scholarship

Fund which has awarded over $260,000 in scholarships to talented local art students.

This past year, OSA began the C ​ reate! a ​ fter-school art enrichment program, generously funded by the Ojai Women’s Fund. These 16 week-long workshops were designed to give intensive art classes to artistically talented elementary-aged children in the cash-strapped public school system, and teach stop frame animation classes at the junior high level. C ​ reate!​has been a big hit, and OSA plans to expand and enhance C ​ reate!​workshops in the years to come.

Three years ago, OSA began the popular and wellattended​Second Saturday Tours between February and August. These tours are free, with studios open each month in different Ojai Valley neighborhoods. It’s another rare opportunity to meet the artists and learn about their inspiration to create.

Check out o ​ jaistudioartists.org​for more details on the upcoming Second Saturday Tours, as well as the annual tour in October.

2019 ANNUAL STUDIO TOUR OCTOBER 12, 13, 14 10AM - 5PM 65 OPEN STUDIOS Come meet our artists!

www.OjaiStudioArtists.org california101guide.com

“ORIGINS” AUGUST 16TH - OCTOBER 14TH OJAI VALLEY MUSEUM 130 W. Ojai Ave. Ojai Summer 2019

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PA T T Y WA LT C H E R

25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE MATCHING PEOPLE AND PROPERTY IN THE OJAI VALLEY

EAST END DESIGNER’S DREAM Completely renovated with an artist’s eye, this light, spacious masterpiece is pure beauty to behold. It is finished with the finest materials, appliances and fixtures, landscaped with gorgeous drought tolerant landscaping, and has mountain views, solar, a large pool, and a spa. Includes a 1000 sq ft studio with bath and a renovated 34 ft 1986 Excella Airstream.

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I will help you discover the home that brings peace to your mind and heart

(805) 340-3774 ~ pattywaltcher.com LIV Sotheby’s Int e r n a t io n a l | DR E # 01076473 80

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PRE-K—12, COLLEGE PREP, DAY AND BOARDING

THERE ARE SO MANY REASONS TO BE GRATEFUL for Oak Grove School, but preserving an environment for students to ask the deepest and most formidable questions is at the top of that list; to directly confront fear, loneliness, self awareness and love; to flower from a deep truth within. Oak Grove’s expansive wooded campus and community of adults (parents, teachers, staff) support a safe space for deep inquiry, affectionate communication, and openness in the face of challenge, all while infusing our days with a sense of ease and joyfulness.

COLLEGE PREP, PRE-K—12 , DAY AND BOARDING FOUNDED BY J. KRISHNAMURTI

OAK GROVE SCHOOL The Art of Living and Learning

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Oak Grove’s 150-acre rustic campus is as unique as its academic program: A college preparatory DAY and BOARDING High School with an intimate, home-style boarding program. A rich academic curriculum, emphasizing depth over breadth, spanning PRESCHOOL through HIGH SCHOOL. Engaging OUTDOOR EDUCATION courses that encompass field trips, camping, and backpacking, culminating in a month-long Senior trip to India.

LEARN MORE

OAKGROVESCHOOL.ORG/GO Summer 2019

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20% off

wine tasting with ad

Expires 9/27/19

Wine tasting available 7 days a week Open Noon Every Day Live music 7:30-11:00 Full Bar. 50 beers.

Full Kitchen from 5:00.

308 E Ojai Ave

Shangri - La Care Cannabis Dispensary

Shangri-La Care Cannabis Dispensary Both Medical and Adult access.....18 and older for medical and 21 and older for adult access

805-640-6464 408 Bryant Circle Suite G, Ojai CA Second Driveway

www.slcc.info • IG @SLCC_Ojai Monday - Saturday 10am to 7pm Sunday 12pm to 7pm Permit #- M10-18-0000182-Temp

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Ca sting for fi sh t ales on the

By Liz Brannan

Southern California’s coast is a tantalizing and veritable feast for the senses. Gorgeous seascape scenes flash by the car window like clips from an old movie along the twisty route known as the Pacific Coast Highway, the air thick with a briny bouquet that is special to this magical place we call the sea.

Not far off the coastal town of Ventura, islands rise out of the water like some ancient guardian beast, keeping a close watch over its territory for the last 10,000 years as races, anglers, and animals have come and gone. Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, Santa Barbara, and San Miguel make up the Channel Islands, and they are an extraordinary prize waiting to be enjoyed. While the Big Blue stretching out between land and the distant islands may look like a swath of pigment left behind an artist’s brush, full of mystery and loneliness, in actuality the ocean is as busy as Union Square

during rush hour. Commercial fishermen, sport fishing boats, sail boats, cargo ships, dive boats, and even tourist taxi boats are all out there attending to that timeless craft of seafaring.

My initial glimpse of Anacapa — the smallest and closest island to the coast — happened during my first ocean fishing experience. My dad asked if I wanted to join him on a charter the night before, and having no clue what to expect, I enthusiastically said yes. After arriving on the boat, I sleepily fell into my small bunk the next morning around 3 am. I woke to an incredible view of orange skies reflecting off choppy waters and Anacapa’s famous arch. That day ended with me having caught my first calico bass, a gnarly sunburn, and a passion for a sport that continues to grow every year. Learning to fish that first year was difficult; there were multiple trips where I never even felt a bite on my line, let alone caught anything, and learning to cast was horribly intimidating for me. However, I found that didn’t matter. Simply being out on the ocean answers some unspoken, primal call within us as humans. In an accidental but personally advantageous feat, I fell in love with my fishing buddy, Mike Riddell, who also happens to be a Captain.

ADVICE FOR SALTWATER GREENHORNS: • Be there early.

Most ocean excursions leave fairly early, but it doesn’t hurt to be there 30 minutes ahead of schedule. Whether you are going fishing or on a harbor cruise, you will need to sign a manifest and leave a contact number in the unlikely case of any emergency. If you’re going fishing, getting there early to buy a fishing license and rent equipment will ensure a smooth departure for everyone.

• Bring a jacket. And sunscreen. And good shoes.

Southern California can see some scorcher days come summer time, but it can be chilly first thing in the morning. So can the ride back to the mainland if you’re sporting a fresh sunburn, so make sure to also pack the sunscreen and reapply — even if it’s an overcast day. And while we’re talking about things to bring, wear good shoes! Flip flops are not a good choice if you get bit by a monster fish and you need to quickly follow your line around the boat a few times. Sneakers, hiking boots, or rubber boots are all a great option and have the added benefit of protecting your feet from hooks that might be on the deck.

• Take Bonine. Just in case.

I somewhat smugly thought myself immune to sea sickness, so the first time it happened it was a bit of a shock. Now, I always 84

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Central Coa st

While Mexico and the southern waters of the Pacific are frequently what people think of when they imagine quality saltwater trips, it is not due to chance that so many talented and highly experienced captains end up returning to the Central Coast to run fishing boats. Instead, it is thanks to the richly diverse and thriving fishery surrounding the Channel Islands. These waters have produced world record catches of halibut, white sea bass, sheephead, barracuda, lingcod, yellowtail, and salmon, to name just a few. If the water is warm enough, like it was last year, bluefin tuna and wahoo can be seen and caught in the channel.

Photo by Lenny Da Silva

Whether you have lived in Ventura County for 30 years, are visiting for the day, are an experienced angler or have never even dipped a toe in the ocean before, there is an incredible experience awaiting you out on the water. While I still think of myself as a newbie, during the last few years of attempting to become a better angler I have accumulated a few thoughts on how to have the best adventure possible, no matter the nature of the outing. I hope there is something here that sparks a desire in you to get out and explore this salty wilderness we call our backyard.

There are innumerable landings and boats available in the Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo County region. Beginning on the next page is a starter list to inspire your sense of adventure.

Photo by Mike Riddell

Photos by Roland Stone

Photo by Roland Stone

The Erna B heads toward Anacapa Island’s iconic Arch Rock.

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Photo by Chris Volaski

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Photo by Chris Volaski

Photo by Chris Volaski

make sure to have something to eat as soon as I get on board, and frequently I’ll take a Bonine tablet as well, just in case. It doesn’t make me drowsy like Dramamine does, and in my opinion it is always better to be safe than sorry. Most boats have galleys on board, so don’t be shy — order a breakfast burrito with extra bacon! If you start to feel queasy, step outside and stare at the horizon; being inside the boat only makes it worse.

• Put your phone on airplane mode.

Your phone is going to be searching constantly for a signal, which drains the battery, and there’s no guarantee that there will a plug handy for you to charge it up. You’ll want to take photos of the sunrise, dolphins, and all the fish you catch … and maybe even a selfie with the islands in the background.

Photo by Roland Stone

Photo by Mike Riddell

HOOK’S LANDING (VENTURA COUNTY) Family owned and operated with five different boats in the fleet, Hook’s Sportfishing has been providing new and experienced anglers alike with quality trips for four generations and is considered a cornerstone of the fishing community. Call (805) 382-0402 to book a trip with any of these boats and captains.

• Ditch the headphones.

How often do you have the chance to be out in the wilderness without constant city noises? The siren call of waves splashing and sea lions barking inside sea caves off Santa Cruz Island aren’t something you’ll want to miss, trust me. Plus, the captain will be offering suggestions over the intercom, and you don’t want to miss out on the fish of a lifetime (or a breaching whale!) because your playlist was turned up too high!

• Listen to your captain and ask the crew for help.

Working on a boat of any type is a grueling career. The people who have chosen this as their career choice do so because it is their deepest life passion. Instead of sleeping in on a rare day off, they are up and out on the water because that’s how much they love it. If you’re on a fishing boat, the captain wants more than anything for you to catch fish and have a great experience.

Seriously, I live with one; they really and truly care. So when the captain gives you detailed instructions on where to cast, how deep to let your line run, or what bait he thinks you should use, give him the benefit of the doubt. Your success is his ultimate goal. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the crew for help! Most crew members enjoy helping teach people how to fish, and are genuinely excited for you when you start to get it.

Which leads to the awkward subject of tipping… Tipping on a boat is customary, just like any other specialized service industry, and generally, the crew lives off the tips they make. So if you enjoyed your day out on the water, whether you’re fishing or cruising or diving, show your appreciation.

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Whether you’re actually catching whoppers or just telling them, you’re sure to land some great memories at the Channel Islands. Photo by Roland Stone

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Photo by Chris Volaski

Photo by Roland Stone

• The Outrider – Owner and Captain Tucker McCombs offers specialized trips with limited loads of passengers. With the ability to sleep 13 passengers, this boat offers experienced anglers who are looking for multiple-day trips a truly comfortable experience.

• The Endeavor – Also owned and operated

by Captain McCombs, the Endeavor can take 24 passengers out on open-party overnight trips and is suitable for new and avid fisherman alike.

Photo by Roland Stone

Photo by Roland Stone

• The Estella – Run by Captain Jeff Katz, the Estella goes out on shorter half-day trips and can take up to 49 passengers.

• The New Hustler – With room for 25 anglers, Captain Chris Volaski offers open-party overnight trips (the boat departs at 10 pm), and private charters.

• The Coroloma – Captain Volaski runs the Coroloma, as well, and offers a good three-quarter day option for anglers who don’t have time for an overnight trip. Up to 49 anglers can head out along the coast or out to the islands for a comfortable and fun day of fishing.

CHANNEL ISLANDS HARBOR Channel Islands Sportfishing (CISCOS) 4151 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard, CA 93035

CA 101

(805) 382-1612 www.ciscos.com

Fishing enthusiasts love having access to the thriving marine habitat that surrounds the Northern Channel Islands. Fish species include World record Halibut, White Seabass, Yellowtail, Sheephead, a variety of Rockfish, Lingcod and Whitefish, along with surface fish, which can include Calico bass, Barracuda, Sand Bass and more! In the off season, Sand Dab fishing is excellent.

The convenient Channel Islands Harbor landing location provides fast and easy access to some of the most productive fishing grounds along the Southern California coast. Daily trips available include, 1/2 day, 3/4 day, Full day and Overnight trips. Seasonal Whale watching, private fishing charters, harbor cruises, dolphin adventures, and more are also available. *All sport boats at Channel Islands Sportfishing are privately owned and operated. california101guide.com

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CHANNEL ISLANDS SPORTFISHING CENTER OF OXNARD (VENTURA COUNTY) • Erna B Sportfishing – Run by Captain Mike Riddell, the Erna B ties up and departs out of Channel Islands Harbor. If you’re new to fishing, attach yourself to deckhand Shawn, who has a degree in Marine Biology and has also been working on the ocean for more than 40 years. Experienced anglers will appreciate the effort spent by the captain to get his passengers on quality fish of all species, with a heavy focus on local game fish, season permitting. (805) 382-1612

• Rich Tauber Fishing – If an exclusive trip sounds right for you, Captain Jake Klinshaw will take you and one other person out to the islands for a truly customized ocean experience.

Get a dolphin’s view of the water from a fully tricked out 22foot center console boat, and cruise around the island in style.

If you feel like fishing, they have fly rods and traditional bait casters, as well. (818) 439-1154

The inevitable morning fog lifts to reveal incredible views of the Channel Islands.

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VENTURA HARBOR

SANTA BARBARA

• Island Packers – In 1968 a local family bought a boat and started hauling people out to the islands to hike, camp, and enjoy life. Today, Island Packers has three custom 65-foot catamarans in their fleet that provide a smooth ride out to the islands. Head out for a short three-hour jaunt to Anacapa to see the arch, lighthouse, and hopefully a whale or two.

If something a little more hands-on is your speed, reserve a kayak and spend the day out at Santa Cruz exploring the island and paddling through the sea caves. Make sure to pack a picnic and maybe even take a bottle of wine — but just make sure the indigenous island foxes don’t eat your lunch!

(805) 642-1393

• Hook, Line & Sinker – Not far from Santa Barbara Harbor, Hook, Line & Sinker Sport Fishing is a one-stop shop. Head out on an open-party boat, fish with Captain David Bacon on a small charter, or browse tackle for sale while you get a rod repaired. (805) 687-5689 • Patriot Sportfishing – Just an hour and a half north of Santa Barbara in Avila Beach, Patriot Sportfishing offers both open party trips and private charters. Salmon, crab fishing, and whale watching are all possibilities. (805) 595-7200

MORRO BAY • Pacific Charters Sport Fishing – Owner and operator Captain Shawn Stamback launches out of Morro Bay and offers passengers a truly customized experience with availability for six people. Fish or cruise, the experience is tailored just for you. (805) 550-6448 • San Pedro Special Sportfishing & Marine Tours – The San Pedro Special is a 57-foot private charter boat that can comfortably accommodate novice fisherman and veteran anglers alike. Rent a rod or bring your own, Morro Bay is known for its quality rock fishing! (805) 771-5500

Photos by Roland Stone

Take in the beauty — and take home some fresh-caught fish! — on one of the area’s many sport fishing boats.

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Fred Evans Sells... Ventura County To the World!

Memeber of RE/MAX Hall of Fame • Top 1% In The Nation

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VENTURA ONDULANDO LOT. Spectacular views of the City, Ocean, islands & farmlands. Private location. Flat over 1/3 acre lot.

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SOUGHT AFTER MID-TOWN VENTURA. Featuring 3 BR, 1 BA & built in 1953. Almost 1200 sq. ft. Lot over 6700 sq. ft. Hardwood floors under carpet. Possible R.V. parking. Newer roof.

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PRIVATE GATED CUSTOM SINGLE STORY IN NIPOMO. Sprawling 3 BR, 2 ½ BA w/ over 2700 sq. ft. Over 1 acre lot. Built-in 1992 w/ quality material. Desirable floor plan. Living room, family room and formal dining. 3 car garage and plenty of room for RV. SOLD FOR $795,000 210MESA.COM Fred Evans - Bringing a world of Real Estate knowledge & experience to Ventura County. Now in our 34th year with over 2900 families served.

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Translated in over 42 languages

Buying or Selling?

Call The Fred Evans Team: 805-339-3502 (office) or 805-267-6701 (cell) DRE Lic.# 00893591 california101guide.com

Get your thrills — or just chill — at the Channel Islands Harbor

By Misty Hall

Photo by Jeremy Bishop

Channel Islands aerial view.

Channel Islands Harbor views.

Whether you have just a • Get some exercise few hours or a few days, and have a ball with the family. Go peddling on the Channel Islands Harbor a variety of single and offers a rich variety of fun multi-person bicycles at activities for the whole Wheel Fun Rentals! Or, try family. This large, sprawling a kayak adventure in the harbor is one of Southern Channel Islands National California’s hidden gems, Park with Channel Islands but it’s just minutes from Kayak Center, Blue Ocean the freeway; exit Harbor Kayaking, or on the Sunfish.

Blvd. in Ventura, head south a few miles, and you’ll run • Get educated. The smack into it. Families, Photos courtesy Ventura County Harbor Department Channel Islands Maritime couples, gal-pals on a miniMuseum has tons of rotating Channe Islands Harbor: eat and peddle. staycation — all will find exhibits and hands-on plenty of ways to make new the summer. Not only will they learn to fun. Learn about the early memories in the Channel Islands Harbor. sail, they’ll learn important lessons on maritime history of the region and see teamwork, communication, and earn a some awesome pieces of history (like Here are some of our favorite spots, canons and artwork dating back to the activities, and events. But with more healthy respect for the ocean, too. If 15th century). than 300 acres of land and water to they’d rather be in the water than on it, explore, we encourage you to get out and consider Junior Lifeguards. An excellent • Fill your belly by the water. In the discover on your own! gateway into summer lifeguarding, the Channel Islands Harbor, you’ve got loads perseverance and self-confidence they’ll of choices! Whether you want something • Keep the kids busy with camps and All-American (Ventura BBQ Co. or Toppers classes. The Pacific Corinthian Yacht Club gain in this program is sure to stick with Pizza), something sweet (Honey Cup them for years to come. offers youth sailing lessons throughout california101guide.com

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Photo courtesy Scarlett Belle

Channel Islands Harbor views, from the Scarlett Belle.

Coffee and Kitchen, Spudnuts Donuts, or Missy’s Cupcake to stoke the imagination.

Creations), something a little more exotic (The Masala Twist • Want a day on the water? for Indian food, or Moqueca Boy, have you come to the for Brazilian), or are just right place! Take a sunset craving super-fresh seafood cruise on the Scarlett Belle, (Sea Fresh Channel Islands, a stunning paddlewheel Fisherman’s House, or H.C. boat. Go parasailing with Seafood), you’ll find plenty Channel Islands Parasail. to fill your belly. Want to go Go SCUBA diving on the upscale? Try The Lookout Sunfish. Take an island tour Photo courtesy Ventura County Harbor Department Bar & Grill or The Waterside and go whale watching Channel Islands Wheel Fun Rentals.

Restaurant and Wine Bar with Island Packers and • Go for an event (then stay and play). for killer eats and wonderful Channel Islands Whale Love live music? What about fairytales? views. Or pick up goodies for a Sunday Watching. Rent a sailboat (complete with picnic at the Farmers’ Market (10 am to 2 Or are cars more your thing? If you visit captain!) with Sail Channel Islands. Rent pm) and Harbor Mart Deli & Wines. a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, paddlethe Channel Islands Harbor this summer, boat, or motorboat with Hopper Boat consider the boxes checked. Check out • Order a few rounds at the Rudder Room.

Rentals. Go ocean fishing out of Hook’s channelislandsharbor.org/events-festivals This local hang-out is a classic no-frills Landing and Channel Islands Sportfishing. before you go. You’ll find a long string of bar with a bonus — it just happens to The possibilities are endless! various musical acts performing in the have insane views. Get a drink and dip your toes in the sand with your friends out ongoing Concerts by the Sea, car shows Start planning your adventures at for British cars and Volkswagens as well back as you watch the boats come and channelislandsharbor.org, or just hit the as classic cars, and fairytale magic events road and hang in the Harbor! go out the mouth of the harbor.

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THE MARINE EMPORIUM LANDING AT CHANNEL ISLANDS HARBOR

CA 101

Hook’s Landing 3600 Cabezone Cir., Suite 115, Oxnard, CA 93035

(805) 382-0402 www.hookslanding.net

Get Hooked on Fishing!

LOCAL FISHERMAN EXPECT THE BEST Welcome Aboard! Hook’s Sportfishing is a 4th generation family operated business that specializes in providing the finest in saltwater sport fishing experiences in the Channel Islands.

We offer open party and private charter trips for all occasions! Whether you are looking for an exotic outer island overnight or multi-day adventure to local freelance half and 3/4 day trips, we stand ready to help make unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime!

Red Tandem Brewery 1009 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard Shores, CA 93035

(805) 832-4023 www.redtandembrewery.com

Nestled into the Oxnard Shores neighborhood, we’re only one block from the beach and enjoy a substantial amount of business from walk-in and bike-in patrons. Red Tandem brewery shares a wall with the Oxnard Shores Pizza Company so the obvious synergy of pizza + beer is a daily occurrence in our tasting room. The tasting room is open Wednesday-Sunday and all Monday holidays. Private parties are welcome by prior arrangement. An on-going event that we host is our Sunday afternoon Community Bike Rides, always open to riders of all ability levels. We also host educational and informative Open House Brew Sessions on the first Tuesday of the month, starting at 8am. Locally owned. Veteran owned.

Hopper Boat Rental 2741 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard, CA 93035

(805) 382-1100 www.hopperboatrentals.com

Come on down and enjoy a day on the water. Hopper Boat Rentals is the best place along the coast to rent almost any kind of “U-Drive” boat you’ve been looking for.

We have electric boats, kayaks, paddle boat and paddle boards, all available for hourly rentals. Most popular are our electric boats which can fit 8-12 passengers; perfect for packing a picnic and some beverages and heading out with a few friends in the early afternoon for a little buzz around the harbor.

NEW WINES Presented Weekly!

WINE • BEER • FOOD

small production, artisan wine and craft beer serving beer and wine by-the-glass and small plates daily creative food menu and gourmet panini

wine club discounts wine tasting Thur-Sun BOTTLE SHOP & CHEESE MARKET

HOURS Monday Closed Tue/Wed 12–7PM Thur/Fri/Sat 12–9PM Sunday 12–5PM

2423 Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, CA 93010 (805) 746-5708 | wineclosetinc.com

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CAMARILLO population: 65,200 size: 19 sq. miles key attraction: festival rich down town

Camarillo boasts favorable weather year-round, making it a prime destination for leisure travelers. It is idyllically situated an hour north of Los Angeles and a short half-hour drive to the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by green fields and a steady sea breeze, Camarillo is nestled amongst the Conejo foothills, making for stunning mountainous milieus spotted throughout the city and the vibrant Old Town business district.

Considered a gateway to California’s Central Coast, Camarillo’s history began with the Camarillo family, namely Adolfo Camarillo and his brother, Juan Jr., who owned much of the land that is known today as Camarillo. Adolfo Camarillo, in particular, was a prominent rancher, horse breeder, land owner and philanthropist in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and remnants of his and his family’s historical significance are still trickled throughout this charming Californian town.

A Queen Anne Victorian home built in 1892 by Adolfo Camarillo, Camarillo Ranch House is a historic mansion with peaceful, park-like grounds. Teams and families can step back in time and experience daily life during the 19th century, with docent-guided tours throughout the property’s 15 rooms, Adolfo’s study, and ranch office.

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Visit Camarillo is the local tourism board that assists visitors with information on where to stay, play and explore. Visit their local office in Old Town Camarillo and pick up a pocket map of the city or browse through their official Visitor’s Guide. If hospitality is requested, their friendly staff will help by providing various hotel options to make your stay the most comfortable.

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Things to do in Old Town Camarillo

STUDIO CHANNEL ISLANDS

Studio Channel Islands Art Center (SCIART) is the largest arts venue in Ventura County and is home to the Blackboard Gallery and over 40 artist studios. One of the oldest arts organizations in the county, SCIART's unique creative offerings bring artists and community together for extraordinary artistic encounters that enrich, educate, and entertain.

Visitors are invited to explore SCIART's five-acre campus of courtyards and studios to see the artists at work, take a class, or visit the Members Gallery to pick up an original work of art. The first Saturday of each month all of the artist studios are open for visitors, and in the winter months the site hosts the annual Holiday Market, Dec. 6 through Dec. 8, featuring unique gift ideas created by more than 100 artists, along with live music and food trucks and craft beer and wine within the most creative space in the City.

SCIART's Blackboard Gallery presents international quality exhibitions of contemporary art. For Summer 2019, SCIART exhibitions include: 'The Next Big Thing,' a group show of contemporary work juried by renowned art critic and curator Mat Gleason; 'Light & Space through Time,' a show of recent work by Karrie Ross; and 'Magical Realism,' featuring artists Omar D'Leon, Andrea Yomtob, and John Durron.

Studio Channel Islands Art Center's Member Gallery presents a changing exhibition of work by its 200 member artists, including sculpture, jewelry, fine art, and fine craft. The Gallery presents an Artist Talk series throughout the year, including on July 13, the legendary music promoter and visual artist Richard Bruland sharing behind-the-scenes stories about the twists and turns of his career, and on Sept. 7, artist and marine Richard Barnett shares personal insight on his work and the influence of active deployment on his creative life.

CAMARILLO OLD TOWN Take a stroll through Old Town Camarillo and shop at the various shops and boutiques found in this shopping destination. Ventura Boulevard is home to great attractions, Arts & Entertainment, Salons, Spas, and professional services. Start your day with a hearty breakfast from Old Town CafĂŠ, a favorite among locals that sits adjacent to the charming Bella Capri Inn & Suites, a great romantic getaway during your stay in Camarillo. Spice up your wardrobe with stylish fashions found at Alas Boutique or find great savings at local consignment stores. Saturday mornings in Old Town are spent browsing through artisan crafts and picking up organic, locally grown fruits and vegetables at the Camarillo Farmers' Market. Dining options abound in Old Town Camarillo as you have your choice of gourmet craft burgers at Blvd. Burger all the way to award-winning chef creations from Twenty 88 Bistro. Check out our activities and events throughout the year including our Camarillo Old Town Welcome to Summer Cruise on Friday, June 21 from 5-8 and End of Summer Block Party on Sunday August 24 from 1-4. More events can be found at CamarilloOldTown.org.

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How to Get to Camarillo Situated in the heart of Southern California and near the coast, Camarillo neighbors several other major Golden State cities, such as Ventura, Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, Long Beach, Palm Springs, San Diego and Bakersfield. Los Angeles International Airport, otherwise known as LAX, lies one hour southeast of Camarillo, serving the greater Los Angeles area.

1927 Barber Shop Alas Boutique All Sorts Thrift Shop All Source Realtors American Legion Andorra Antique Mall of Camarillo Bella Capri Inn Blvd Brgr Company Bone Deep Tattoo California Designers Choice Custom Cabinetry Chapel City Church Chastain Insurance Services

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Christian Family Supply DeLeon Salon Dot Dot Smile with JZ Boutique El Rey Cantina Empty Hangers Flower Power Green Goddess Herman Bennett Foundation / Save a Life Thrift Store Lamplighter Sports Bar Legal Shield / IDShield Lularoe Sarah and Joanne Luminous Skincare & Makeup Studio Mills Jewelers & Loan

Mister Rogers Hairstyling Mister Softee (Surfside Softee, Inc.) Moxie Hair & Design Studio Museum Quality Art Services Old Town CafĂŠ Painting with a Twist Palm Dental Smiles Posh Hair & Skin Studio Que Pasa Mexican CafĂŠ Red Carpet Formal Wear Realty One Group Summit Revolution Surf and Skate Robert Martin Salon Salon eLLe Studio and Spa

Schearer Designs Sessions at the Loft / Don Harper Productions SoCal Flooring Studio Channel Islands Sun Kissed Yoga TCR Accupuncture Tony's NY Pizzeria Twenty 88 Usborne Books + More Visit Camarillo Window Box Antiques Wine Closet Woof Pack Grooming Zander's Game House california101guide.com

Your next

ADVENTURE awaits in

SIMI VALLEY

Start your next adventure at VisitSimiValley.com california101guide.com

SIMI VALLEY, CALIFORNIA

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Intro to better lightchasing: photography tips for the Central Coast and beyond Photos/Story by Bennett Barthelemy Every day on the Central Coast, there are amazing opportunities for creating great photos. We are blessed with a lot of sun, surf, wildlife, active sports, and protected areas to enhance these opportunities.

Where the ocean meets the shore is a blending of two distinct worlds, aquatic and terrestrial. Lots of action Fire skies — that’s what you can get when you chase light in the Golden Hours of happens in these zones, and it’s sunrise and sunset. a good place to discuss and view images that represent a similar convergence. All images, in fact, allow for this. When we paint our sensors or film with light by snapping the shutter open, this act of framing and capturing a composition places us firmly in that creative zone — yet one that is static and two-dimensional. We have extra work to do, then, to breathe a sense of life and motion into our images.

Fancy, expensive lenses are great – and if you’re shooting a campaign for Mercedes Benz, this matters a lot more. For the vast bulk of us, we merely want good memories and to maximize our result with the tools we have.

Here are few tips to help cut the curve with any camera when it comes to getting better shots. They should provide a few small epiphanies that can add up to higher quality photos.

• The best camera is the one you have with you Smartphones take epic shots, and knowing the built-in filters can be fun. There have been National Geographic covers and features shot purely with an iPhone.

Early-evening skies cast pastel hues, doing justice to the beauty of this Central That little beast in your pocket could Coast beach. be your best friend when lightchasing because it is likely the camera you always have at the ready. So no more excuses about needing a better camera!

• Creating a sense of depth This is a huge and not often easy task.

You know the images that you can literally fall into, that pull you in and move you in a direction? Different things can allow for this. Careful framing and placement of shapes can create a sense of known space with heights of objects; a shallow depth of field to pull your eye to a specific focal point. These are important skills to learn and can be built upon for a lifetime.

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• Auto vs Manual If you can dive into your controls, you can find great rewards. But you can also learn a whole lot just figuring out how your specific camera “sees.” The focal length will affect things for sure.

Many smartphones are standard at 38 millimeters, but our eyes see a very rough equivalent to 50 millimeters.

Knowing what you have to work with is ideal. Regular digital cameras have gotten very smart but still struggle in heavy contrast scenes and low light.

You’ll want to delve into F-stops, shutter speed and film speed, and get to know your own camera setup; how your camera responds to movement, how it deals with contrast, and how much shutter lag there is — all of these are key to taking good shots.

Pick your moments, and be ready for them. The juxtaposition of surfer and sea birds adds interest and fun to this photo.

With a smartphone, it often takes tapping the screen in different spots to change the exposure to light and dark. It’s a simplified version of the full camera manual mode, but still offers greater hope for better shots and lets you see how the camera sees in a live view.

• Stabilize I almost never carry a bulky, heavy tripod anymore. I put my camera or phone down on a rock and brace it against a tree to shoot in lower light or with a larger lens. If I am really worried about vibration blur I can set the self-timer once it is out of my hands and braced. Fancier cameras can handle low light much better, as well as heavy expensive glass lenses with a small F-stop like 1.4.

But we all can’t afford those, and there can be a lot more latitude for capturing a good image with a basic photography setup with this simple trick. If you want to get fancy, many cameras now have smartphone apps that allow you to trip the shutter on your camera as well.

• Anticipation is a key ingredient I am a relaxed photographer but often create luck by being ready.

My camera is usually on and already set to the right exposure if it isn’t on auto. By being aware of my surroundings and in the moment as much as possible, I can be alert when a pelican’s flight path will take her over a surfer.

Make a conscious decision of where you’re placing your subjects within the frame. This image benefits from the balance of the pier coming in from the upper left, and the wave and surfer in the lower right.

• Choose your moments Wake up early! They call it the Golden Hour or the Rembrandt Hour for good reason. The light during sunrise and sunset gives a soft, golden glow, as opposed to the harsh light of midafternoon. There is also the blue hour, just before dawn as the sun is on its way but not yet made its appearance. california101guide.com

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Amazing things happen at these fleeting moments. As a dedicated lightchaser, it is good know the subtle magic that happens with subjects when the light shifts.

• Break the rules The rule of thirds — most of us have heard about it. But finding your own style counts for a hell of a lot, too. Forget about stealing ideas; find what other people are shooting, and try to shoot it better.

• Subtraction Good photography is often seen as a lesson in subtraction. It’s probably more important to consciously know what you are not including in an image. Clutter and distractions make you lose your subject and the power of an image, in many cases. To prevent your subject from getting lost in the background, perhaps

try isolating them behind sky, sea, or sand. To do this you must often lie down, climb up on something, or change your perspective in another way. This will make it a much more interesting image than always shooting at eye level.

• Keep shooting How many times were you so close to having the perfect shot but your subject closed their eyes? If it is worth one shot, it’s worth three.

Also, shoot the vertical and size it up horizontally, as well. And it’s also a quantity game. Take 100 shots and your odds of a good one go way up as opposed to just nailing the perfect moment. With digital, we can keep looking at what we shot, too, and try to improve our exposures and what we keep in and

out of the frame.

• Protect it In a beach environment, sand can destroy everything quickly. Blowing sand especially. Be vigilant when changing lenses, for sure. Use a good smartphone case. Look at your lens and frequently clean it with a special lens cloth. So many shots are compromised by finger oil, sea spray, etc.

• Study a good photographer’s work that you like What makes it powerful, gives it impact and perspective? Does it tell a story?

How can I bring those elements into my images? All great questions to ponder on your journey as an aspiring lightchaser!

Reflections — and a low of F-stop — give depth to this image of sea birds on the shoreline.

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Photo by Ashley Berry

Hike a lot?

Give a little!

If you hike in Ojai, you’ve probably hiked our trails.

OVLC has permanently protected 2,300 acres of open space and maintains 27 miles of trail for all to enjoy.

This is all done with donations from you—our community.

LEARN MORE AND JOIN US: OVLC.ORG california101guide.com

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“There’s no place like home – Let me find yours.”

RE / MAX Gold Coast Realtors® (805) 798-0516

DONNA SALLEN lic.#01488460

donnasallen.com · donna4remax@aol.com ·

1255 McNell Rd Ojai, CA 93023 Located on the prestigious East End of Ojai, down a private lane, sits an elegantly modern home.

Recently remodeled by Joseph Lam, owner of Zen West Design. This spacious, open floor plan blends sophistication and elegance without sacrificing warmth and intimacy. The fireplace in the living room is defined by floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the stunning views. The kitchen is open to the dining area and living room creating an open and airy feel. The light pours in to this home with the oversized windows blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. This home, sitting on over an acre with nearly 4000 square feet, is a modern, inspiring and peaceful space: a sanctuary for body and mind.

$1,995,000

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“There’s no place like home – Let me find yours.”

RE RE // MAX MAX Gold Gold Coast Coast Realtors Realtors®® DONNA DONNA SALLEN SALLEN lic.#01488460 lic.#01488460

(805) (805) 798-0516 798-0516 donnasallen.com donnasallen.com ·· donna4remax@aol.com donna4remax@aol.com ··

1370 1370 Cuyama Cuyama Ojai, Ojai, CA CA ,, 93023 93023 Sitting Sitting perfectly perfectly on on over over an an acre acre of of land land with with citrus citrus fruits fruits and and aa driveway driveway of of cypress cypress trees, trees, this this home home has has the the modern modern design design that that unites unites family family spirit, spirit, cozy cozy atmospheres, atmospheres, and and large large open open spaces. spaces.

Recently Recently renovated, renovated, this this light light fifilled lled house house has has aa spacious spacious flfloorplan, oorplan, vaulted vaulted ceilings, ceilings, polished polished concrete concrete flfloors, oors, and and custom custom doors doors leading leading to to aa private private backyard. backyard. The The property’s property’s meandering meandering paths paths lead lead to to an an artist’s artist’s studio studio and and aa sleeping sleeping cottage. cottage.

Located Located minutes minutes away away from from trails, trails, organic organic grocer, grocer, coff coffee ee shops, shops, and and yoga yoga studio, studio, this this home home isis made made for for aa true true Ojai Ojai lifestyle. lifestyle. $1,700,000 $1,700,000

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Patty Waltcher 25 ye a r s o f e x p e r i e n ce m a tc h i n g

p e o p l e a n d p ro p e r t y i n t h e O j a i Va l l e y

A SPEN G ROVE R ANCH An incomparable estate on 177 prime acres of rolling hills and fenced meadows, flanked by panoramic views. Includes a newly-built, finely-crafted main residence, four legal lots, a private driveway, two large guest houses, two large barns, a well, pristine stables, a large arena, a round pen, a hot-walker for exercising horses and extensive bridle paths.

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Price Available Upon Request

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