Everything about this private estate has been refined and perfected to create one of the most magnificent properties in Ojai. On 9+ acres with truly exquisite gardens, the entire property has awesome views of the valley and mountains to the west. The compound includes a main house, a guest house, a studio, a pool, 2 greenhouses, an entertainment barn, a pool house, a brand new tennis court with pavillion, solar and a well. Every location takes full advantage of the natural beauty and each detail has been finished with the utmost care to make it breathtakingly beautiful, warm and luxuriously livable. Offered at $15,500,000
construction of the 5100 sqft, 4br/5ba home is finished with the highest quality materials, appliances and fixtures. An H-shaped floorplan separates private sleeping areas from public social areas. The open living area includes a chef’s kitchen, a 2-sided fireplace, and a wine tasting room. The grounds feature a 100% organic vineyard, pool/spa with epic views, and multiple courtyards and verandas to take full advantage of the spectacular natural setting.
Unlike traditional facial treatments that focus solely on surface-level improvements, skin revision targets the deeper layers of the skin, addressing the root causes of various skin issues to not only improve the skin’s appearance, but to enhance its biological function, bringing it closer to its youthful, optimal state.
Bret Bradigan
COUNTER-SPEECH THEORY
"By hammer and hand do all arts stand.” — General Society of Mechanics & Tradesmen
In 1644, John Milton penned "Areopagitica," a powerful defense of free speech. It's where we get the phrase, "the marketplace of ideas," where truth and falsehood could vie for supremacy. This was not merely a libertarian ode to unbridled expression, but a faith that truth, when freely debated, would prevail. Two centuries later, John Stuart Mill advanced the argument in his essay "On Liberty:" "He who knows only his own side of the case, knows little of that." Both men understood the dangers of censorship but equally warned of the perils of intellectual laziness and unchecked rhetoric.
Fast forward to Ojai in the digital age. Our local discourse often feels less like Milton’s vibrant marketplace and more like a gladiatorial arena. Social media platforms like Next Door and Facebook, the comment sections of local newspapers, and even our neighborhood conversations are rife with hostility and misinformation. Under the guise of "sharing concerns," "asking questions," or "do your own research," many sow fear, scapegoat neighbors, and peddle inaccuracies. Once, these forums might have been likened to the town square. Now, they feel more like a coliseum, with outrage as the blood sport.
The ancient wisdom of counter-speech theory — the idea that the best remedy for bad speech is more speech, better speech — offers a way forward. Counter-speech does not mean shouting louder than the loudest voice in the room. It means standing firm, addressing lies with facts, and meeting vitriol with calm conviction. But as Milton argued, “Let her (truth) and falsehood grapple; who ever knew truth put to the worse, in a free and open encounter?”
The stakes are higher than a bruised ego or a fleeting argument. Words shape the world. They build bridges or tear them down, and nowhere is that more evident than in a close-knit community like ours. What begins as a careless accusation or a venomous post metastasizes, eroding trust and sowing division. A neighbor becomes an enemy. A disagreement becomes a feud. Soon, the "marketplace" feels more like a minefield.
Consider the rise of conspiracy theories and baseless accusations about local initiatives — whether about housing for the homeless, pickleball votes or school curriculums. The loudest voices often drown out nuanced perspectives, replacing dialogue with diatribe. But there is hope. If words can destroy, they can also heal. This is where counter-speech becomes both an obligation and an art. Mill reminds us that, “The worth of a state in the long run, is the worth of the individuals composing it.” For our little “state” of Ojai, that worth hinges on our ability to speak and listen with integrity.
Counter-speech is not about winning debates; it is about refusing to yield to despair. This work — incremental and often invisible — is not for the faint-hearted. But it is essential.
Which brings me to one of my favorite mottos, borrowed from the General Society of Mechanics & Tradesmen: "By hammer and hand do all arts stand." Building a community is much like the work of artisans. It requires steady hands, careful tools, and a vision of something enduring. The hammer may be our tenacity, and the hand our humanity, but words are the raw material. Each phrase we choose — whether spoken, written or typed — contributes to the architecture of our shared world.
We cannot silence every voice that spreads falsehood or hate, nor should we try. But we can meet them with the quiet, unrelenting strength of truth. If we choose our words with care and courage, Ojai’s marketplace of ideas can flourish once more — not as an arena for combat, but as a workshop for collective progress.
FOUNDING FATHERS & MOTHERS
While Edward Drummond Libbey is rightfully regarded among Ojai’s chief benefactors — having been behind the building of such Ojai landmarks as the Ojai Valley Inn, St. Thomas Aquinas Church (now the Museum), Post Office Tower and the Arcade — others have been very influential in shaping Ojai’s identity. Here’s a few:
Annie Besant. Free-thinker, feminist and noted Theosophist. Though she only spent a few days in Ojai, she brought Krishnamurti to Ojai, and helped buy hundreds of acres of property in Ojai, (now the sites of Besant Hill School and, along with A.P. Warrington, the Krotona Center) which she called “the smiling vale.” She is considered one of the pioneers of introducing Eastern mystical thought to the West, and was an early advocate of India’s independence. and the labor movement.
Jiddhu Krishnamurti. The spiritual teacher and writer, came to Ojai in 1922, sponsored by the Theosophical Society, though he later broke with that group (“The Leaderless Path.”) He gave talks to many thousands of people each year, in the Star Camps in the oak groves west of Ojai (now the site of Oak Grove School. He once held the Guinness Book of World Records for having spoken to the greatest number of people.
Weather in Ojai
Beatrice Wood. The famed ceramicist’s (“The Mama of Dada”) greatest work of art may well have been her life. The irreverent, avant-garde Wood lived and worked in Ojai for decades until her death in 1998 at age 105. She inspired two classic movies, Francois Truffaut’s “Jules et Jim,” and James Cameron’s “Titanic.” She attributed her longevity to “chocolate and young men.” Her autobiography was appropriately titled, “I Shock Myself.” Many of her distinctive, whimsical, luminous luster-glazed pieces are on display at her former home, now the Beatrice Wood Center, in upper Ojai.
Sherman Day Thacher. After coming West to farm and care for an ailing brother, the Yale-educated Thacher realized that he was going to need another source of income. So he founded The Thacher School in 1887. Now one of the most prestigious preparatory academies in the country, its founding creed was “teach a boy to ride, shoot and tell the truth.” Also, in 1896, his brother William founded “The Ojai,” the country’s oldest amateur tennis tournament. Among Thacher’s more illustrious students were industrialist, aviator and film producer Howard Hughes and three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and novelist Thornton Wilder, who wrote his first play while a Thacher student.
OJAI QUICK FACTS:
The name “Ojai” is believed to be derived from the Ventureño Chumash word ‘awhaý, meaning “moon.” In 1837, Fernando Tico received a land grant and established a cattle ranch. Thomas A. Scott, who had financial success with oil and railroads, bought the Ojai Valley in 1864 for oil exploration. By 1868, Scott, through his agent Thomas Bard, began selling properties to homesteaders. By 1874, R.G. Surdam plotted out the town he would call Nordhoff, renamed Ojai in 1917.
Ojai is about 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 30 miles east of Santa Barbara. The valley is about 10 miles long by 3 miles wide, surrounded by hills and mountains; the rare east-west orientation with a slight southward tilt gives the valley an extraordinary sun exposure; Ojai’s citrus and avocado crops are highly prized. This orientation also gives rise to Ojai as a spiritual destination.
It was due to the resources and organizing energy of Ohio glass manufacturer Edward Drummond Libbey that Nordhoff was rebuilt and renamed Ojai, inspired by the City Beautiful Movement. By 1917, with the construction of the Arcade and Post Office Tower, the town took its present shape.
The city’s self-styled nickname is “Shangri-La,” based on the story that Ojai was the backdrop (later left on the editing room floor) from the 1937 movie as the mystical sanctuary of James Hilton’s novel “Lost Horizon.”
evanehwspmettaehSS
evanehwspmetpid• pleHecuderruoyylhtnomytilitustsochtiw H retnusalguoDsedahsyllacfiicepsdengised oedivorpdnuor-raeynoitalusnit
Dec. 17th Event at Playhouse Raising Funds, Spirits
The Ojai Playhouse has opened its movie-ready doors and Joan Kemper’s Ojai Performing Arts Theater will be the first to present a live show in the newly renovated venue with a concert to benefit HELP of Ojai.
A stellar cast, including Broadway veterans Douglas Ladnier and Laura Dekkers will offer a holiday stocking full of Christmas songs from some of your favorite movies… traditional and contemporary hits treasured by young and old… songs chosen from “White Christmas,” “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas,” “The Polar Express,” Spirited,” and more.
“This will be the show of the season,” says Kemper, “and we’re delighted to help christen a live concert
at the Ojai Playhouse for a good cause.”
HELP of Ojai’s Co-Executive Director Megan Telfer feels that this will go a long way in reaching the non-profit’s holiday goals. “The funds raised will benefit HELP of Ojai’s efforts to provide a holiday meal to families, aging adults and people who are unhoused or unsheltered. We hope to bring a little magic of the season to those who may otherwise struggle to celebrate.”
Come be among the first to see the newly renovated Playhouse, December 17th at 7 p.m. Sing along with “Do a Little Good” from “Spirited” while you’re doing a little good with your presence.
For tickets, go to ojaitheater.org
DECEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS podcast
THE NIGHTINGALE BALL | JANUARY 11 | MyCMH.org
TO DECEMBER 1
Jacob Van Hulsdonck, George Braque & André Derain at canvas and paper
Dates: Thursday to Sunday Times: Noon to 5 p.m.
Location: 311 North Montgomery Street
Contact: info@canvasandpaper.org
Canvas and paper is a small art museum presenting paintings and drawings in thematic and single artist exhibits with a focus on 20th century modernism.
DECEMBER 7-8
Ojai Community Chorus, “Evening Stars Into the Morning Light”
Dates: Saturday & Sunday Times: 7 p.m. Saturday & 3 p.m. Sunday Location: United Methodist Church, 120 Church Road
Contact: 805-640-0468, OjaiChorus.com
This annual holiday concert tradition features sacred and secular music, led by Connie Woodson.
DECEMBER 8
The CREW’s Green Valley Project
Date: Sunday Times: 9 a.m. to 12 noon.
Location: Libbey Park
Contact: 805-649-8847
Join the Concerned Resource & Environmental Workers annual youth showcase for a day of fun, incredible projects and community spirit.
concerts
ALLEGRA KRIEGER WITH ELLE HUE | DECEMBER 13 | DeerLodgeOjai.com
DECEMBER 9
Mapache Duo
Date: Monday Times: Show at 8, doors open at 7 p.m.
Location: Deer Lodge, 2261 Maricopa Highway
Contact: FolkYeah.com
This jam-folk cosmic cowboy duo of Sam Blasucci and Clay Finch, formerly part of the Grateful Shred, is known for ringing melodies, tight harmonies and warm California vibes. Produced by Tierra del Sol and (((folkYEAH!))).
DECEMBER 13
Allegra Krieger with Ella Hue
Date: Friday
Times: Show at 9 p.m.
Location: Deer Lodge, 2261 Maricopa Highway
Contact: DeerLodgeOjai.com
DECEMBER 17
“Christmas at the Movies”
Date: Tuesday Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Ojai Playhouse 145 East Ojai Avenue
Contact: OjaiTheater.org
The first live show in the newly renovated Ojai Playhouse will be Ojai Performing Arts Theater production of “Christmas at the Movies,” featuring holiday songs from your favorite films. The event benefits
OJAI PODCAST | THURSDAYS | OjaiHub.Com
Help of Ojai.
JANUARY 11
Hospital Guild’s “The Black & White Nightingale Ball”
Date: Saturday Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Ojai Valley Inn, 905 Country Club Road
Contact: MyCMH.org (805) 948-2317
— RECURRING EVENTS — THURSDAYS
Ojai: Talk of the Town Podcast
New episodes come out Thursday evenings through TheOjaiVortex.com newsletter. Sign up at OjaiHub.com for a free newsletter of Ojai events, news, arts, entertainment, history and culture. And podcasts. Check out our archive of 220+ episodes with community leaders, actors, writers, directors and assorted rogues and scoundrels.
DECEMBER 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30
Historical Walking Tours of Ojai
Date: Every Saturday
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Ojai Valley Museum 130 West Ojai Avenue.
Contact: 640-1390
Get a street-level view of Ojai’s fascinating history, led by experienced docents.
DARA MARKS
BY ILONA SAARI
FROM SCRIPT TO SOUL: DARA MARKS’ ARC
Story Consultant, Author & The Development of the Transformational Arc
Dara Marks’ entrance into the world was welcomed by her father, Mortimer David Marks (Tim) and mother, Libby. Libby was doing her internship at Beth Israel Hospital in Newark, New Jersey at a time when there were few women doctors. Tim, still in the military after serving in World War II as one of the Flying Tigers, was transferred shortly after Dara was born and the family settled in Montgomery, Alabama.
Libby had finished her internship, and struggled to find work as a female doctor, but eventually did so in a clinic serving the black community. This was at the beginning of civil rights era with bus boycotts and protests during the late ‘40s and early ‘50s. At one point, a patient brought a friend, and Libby had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
One of Tim’s military posts brought the family to New Mexico where Libby had the privilege of working on a Navajo reservation. Last stationed at Edwards Air Force base, Tim retired from the military when Dara was about eight years old and the family moved to Sacramento where he worked as an aeronautical engineer and Libby opened her own practice as a family doctor.
Dara and her two brothers, Jeff (an executive in alternative energy, especially windmills) and Fred (a physician) grew up listening to their father’s fascinating war stories and their mother’s adventures on the Navajo
“I learned later that they (the doctors) told my parents that I probably wasn’t going to survive, but if I did, I would most likely spend the rest of my life in my room. I now joke that I just never got the memo. It never occurred to me.”
— Dara Marks
reservation. A storytelling seed was planted in Dara and was nurtured by her innate artistic nature.
After high school, she enrolled in the University of Arizona, but after her first semester, her life radically changed.
Home for spring break, Dara and a few friends were driving toward the coast and, while crossing the San Rafael Bridge outside San Francisco, their car stalled. “Somebody didn’t see that we were stalled and hit the back of our car and it flipped over.”
Dara was trapped in the middle of the back seat. “There were a lot of us in the car, and everybody else got out without a scratch ... They didn’t realize I had been knocked out on impact, and was still in the car.” Ernest Farmer, a Good Samaritan, stopped and ran to the flaming car. He saw Dara’s elbow sticking out and pulled
her from the burning car just before it exploded, saving her life.
Fortunately for Dara they were near San Francisco and she was rushed to St. Francis Hospital which had one of the top burn units in the country. “I learned later that they (the doctors) told my parents that I probably wasn’t going to survive, but if I did, I would most likely spend the rest of my life in my room. I now joke that I just never got the memo. It never occurred to me.”
Though her pain was excruciating, she persevered and after several months, Dara was finally stable enough to be transferred to Mercy Hospital in Sacramento where she began a long and painful journey of reconstructive surgery.
A year later, Dara wanted to re-enter her life and enrolled Sacramento State,
majoring in art even though her hands were badly damaged and still being reconstructed. “When I started going back, my father went to school with me so he could take notes.” Her two brothers were caring and supportive. “They used to come and just spend time with me.”
As her interest in design grew, Dara transferred to FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) in New York City. After earning a degree in fashion, she returned to Sacramento State to finish her Bachelors of Arts and began doing costumes for its theater department. With her undergrad degree behind her and with her design education, Dara’s artistic journey led her to Hollywood and New York, where she briefly worked as a costume designer in television.
While that career was both challenging and rewarding, that youthful love for
DARA, ALONG WITH DEB NORTON, LEFT, AUTHORED “PART WILD: A WRITER’S GUIDE TO HARNESSING THE CREATIVE POWER OF RESISTANCE,” AS WELL AS A WORKSHIP AND A ONLINE TRAINING COURSE.
storytelling was reignited by the writers she met, and she began to write screenplays and script treatments with Jim Pfanner, a friend from Sac State.
Dara’s big break came unexpectedly when she connected with Linda Seger, a leading story analyst in Hollywood and author of the seminal book “Making a Good Script Great.” At the time, new theories on story structure were gaining prominence and Linda was among those at the forefront of this evolution.
Under Linda’s mentorship, Dara grew into a sought-after story consultant. But, as her expertise deepened, her perspective began to shift. Most writing theories focused on the structural mechanics of plot — how to build and move the physical action. However, Dara became more intrigued by the inner battles characters faced as they navigated plotdriven challenges. This inner-movement of character is known as the Transformational Arc. “This arc reflects the essence of the human condition,” she explains, “showing how we grow and evolve internally when face with life’s external challenges.”
This concept is what defines great storytelling. From classics like “Les Miserables” and “Jane Eyre” to modern masterpieces such as “The Godfather,” Schindler’s List, and “Breaking Bad,” the Transformational Arc is what makes these narratives resonate on a deeply human level.
To further explore this archetypal pattern, Dara pursued a Ph.D in Mythological Studies at Pacifica. Her thesis on this narrative element, “The Transformative Function of Story,” became the basis of her book “Inside Story: The Power of the Transformational Arc,” a worldwide bestseller on the art of creative writing.
On a personal level, while out with friends one evening in 1990, Dara was “whining and complaining that it’s so hard to meet guys.” The friends invited her to join them for a drink at a singles bar. “I don‘t go to
“This arc reflects the essence of the human condition, showing how we grow and evolve ...”
bars. It was an excruciatingly awful idea,” but she agreed. When she arrived, her friends were already chatting with some guys. Dara didn’t join in, but to her relief, a man came over, introduced himself as Randy Haney, and offered to buy her a drink. He then disappeared. When her friends moved on to another bar, she went with them, but the new place was so dead they returned to the first bar.
When she walked in, she bumped into Randy. “Where’d you go?” he asked. “It took me forever to get through to the bar and get you a drink.” They talked and danced all night, but Dara was still surprised when he called the next day. “Hi, it’s Randy.” Her response, “Randy who? You just never expect to meet somebody in a bar.” He asked her out for dinner and they married in 1993.
At the time, Randy, a native Angeleño, was working for the L.A. Parks and Recreation department as one of the supervisors overseeing the county’s main golf courses. After the 1994 Northridge earthquake, fate brought Dara to Ojai to help a friend go house-hunting. While there, Dara fell in
love with one house, called Randy and said, “You got to come look at this.” He came, they bought, they moved to Ojai where Randy opened Haney Landscaping.
Randy jumped into the community with both feet as a volunteer Nordhoff High School football coach for many years, and the volunteer Chairman of Ojai’s Parks & Recreation department. He also served as an Ojai councilman for eight years. (Their son, Justin Haney, and his wife Liz, and grandkids, Piper and Paige live nearby.)
Over a decades-long career, Dara has consulted on countless film and television projects, earning recognition from Creative Screenwriting Magazine as the best in the business. Beyond consulting, she has shared her expertise through seminars and helped develop writing programs globally, including in Italy and South Korea. In collaboration with writing coach, Deb Norton, author of “Part Wild: A Writer’s Guide to Harnessing the Creative Power of Resistance,” they developed a hands-on workshop to help writers create strong, thematically rich stories. Together they launched the “Inside Story Training Program,” a new online course designed for writers at all levels, across all mediums — from novels to scripts to stage plays. “It’s a complete course,” Dara shares, “bridging theory and practice so writers can work at their own pace while benefiting from expert coaching right at their fingertips. http://goinsidestory.com/
Dara and Deb are now breaking new ground with their work on the Feminine Heroic, which combines Dara’s expertise in mythology with practical storytelling tools. The two lead retreats for women writers using epic female myths as a gateway to archetypal themes, encouraging these women to explore the core of their stories and connect with their creative essence. “It’s about getting to the heart of what you’re writing,” Dara explains, “and uncovering the profound truths that lie at the center of every great story.”
2238 Los Encinos Road
Updates, Timeless Design
Nestled in Ojai’s serene hills, 2238 Los Encinos Road offers a blend of modern updates and timeless design on a spacious 0.52-acre lot. This two-story home spans 1,845 sq. ft. and includes 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Vaulted ceilings with exposed beams create an open, airy feel, while the stone fireplace anchors the light-filled living room. The chef’s kitchen boasts top-of-the-line appliances, abundant counter space, and a smart layout.
3 BR | 2.5 BA | 1,845 SQFT | $1,675,000
2092 los encinos road True Ojai Gem
12617 koenigstein road Oasis in the Ojai Valley
Discover a hidden gem in the prestigious Upper Ojai Valley at 12617 Koenigstein Road. This property sits in the heart of Bear Canyon, along Bear Creek, beneath the foothills of the Topa Topas. This enchanting Craftsman-style historical farmhouse is beautifully situated on roughly 6 acres of verdant land, bordered by a tranquil creek. The property has been meticulously restored, merging its historical charm with contemporary upgrades for today’s lifestyle.
4 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,995 SQFT | $2,250,000
9782 Big horn Ventura East End Gem
3 BR | 3 BA | 2,658 SQFT | $1,510,000
This well-maintained single-family home boasts strong structural integrity and exceptional entry-level pricing. This coveted lot features a spacious backyard with plenty of privacy.
150 West Barnett West End Bungalow
Discover a hidden gem in the prestigious Upper Ojai Valley at 12617 Koenigstein Road. This property sits in the heart of Bear Canyon, along Bear Creek, beneath the foothills of the Topa Topas. This enchanting Craftsmanstyle, historical farmhouse is beautifully situated on roughly 6 acres of verdant land, bordered by a tranquil creek. The property has been meticulously restored, merging its historical charm with contemporary Oasis in the Ojai Valley
Jack La Plante
Realtor® | DRE 02134607
805.640.5571
4 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,995 SQFT | $2,400,000 Welcome to 2092 Los Encinos Road, beautifully situated in the heart of Ojai. This exquisite property, nestled on nearly half an acre, offers 2,658 sq. ft. of refined living space, complete with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. You are greeted by a spacious and inviting living area, where exposed beam ceilings and skylights flood the room with natural light. One of the many highlights of this property is the music recording room. 2092 Los Encinos Road is more than a home — it's a lifestyle opportunity in the enchanting Ojai Valley.
jack.laplante@sothebysrealty.com
jacklaplante.sothebysrealty.com
The perfect blend of comfort and convenience in this delightful West End bungalow! Ideally situated close to everything you need, this property features 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom in the main house, along with an attached 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom studio.
Calling all Investors! You have plenty of space to create your own workspace with this 8-acre property and nearly 30,000 square ft of commercial space. Longtime tenants share the property and would love to stay. There are 3 APN numbers. that make up the 8 acre property. The property is located in a perfect industrial area of Santa Paula. Family owned property, offered for sale for the first time in years. Don’t miss this opportunity for development.
FAMILY HOME
Located on one of Ojai’s most desirable streets, Foothill Road, and sitting perfectly on over half an acre, this wonderful family home is just waiting for you. This home features a spacious open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, Travertine stone floors throughout and light-filled rooms. There are two large living areas, both with their own fireplace, so you can enjoy the warmth of a cozy fire. Top-of-the-line appliances in the large kitchen which looks out to the beautiful pool and backyard. The dining room opens to a large deck with lovely mountain views, a great place for entertaining. There are 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms with plenty of room for family and guests. The outdoor space is charming with meandering pebble pathways, lush landscape and mature trees. You will love splashing in the pool on warm summer days or soaking in the hot tub under the star-studded night’s sky. Includes an over-sized 3-car garage with plenty of parking. Private and gated. Don’t miss this one!
1 SHELF ROAD 3.5mi
EASY | Elev. Gain: 200 ft | Overlooks downtown Ojai.
VENTURA RIVER PRESERVE | 7mi
EASY TO MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 520 ft (Wills-Rice). Trailheads at end of Meyer Road, South Rice Road and Baldwin Road. Great for birding.
HORN CANYON 5.5mi
STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 1,600 ft. Trailhead near Thacher School’s gymkhana field. Goes to shady stand of 80-foot tall pines.
ROSE VALLEY 1mi
EASY | Elev. Gain: 100 ft
Trailhead at Rose Valley Campground. Leads to a spectacular 300-foot, two-tiered fall.
PRATT TRAIL 8.8mi
STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 3,300 ft | Trailhead off North Signal Street. Goes to Nordhoff Peak. Clear day? See forever.
COZY DELL 2.2mi
MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 740 ft | Trailhead 8 miles north of Ojai on Maricopa Highway. Short, intense hike that also connects to trail network.
SISAR CANYON 22mi
STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 4,800 ft to Topa Topa Bluffs. Trailhead at end of Sisar Road. Only for experienced, fit hikers.
GRIDLEY TRAIL 6-12mi
MODERATE | 3 mi to Gridley Springs (Elev. Gain: 1,200 ft) 6 mi to Nordhoff Peak. Trailhead at north end of Gridley Road.
MATILIJA CANYON 12mi
MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 1,200 ft | Middle Fork. Trailhead at end of Matilija Road. First 1.5 miles of trail well-maintained, the rest a scramble.
SULPHUR MTN. 22mi
MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 2,300 ft | Trailhead on eastern side of Sulphur Mountain Road. Views are unsurpassed.
EAST END MASTERPIECE
Welcome to this nearly 35-acre income producing ranch located in the prestigious East End of Ojai. Truly iconic ranch nestled between McNell Creek and the Topa Topa Mountains offering you a perfect “Pink Moment” nearly every evening. This 1920’s farmhouse has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, remodeled kitchen and bathrooms, and a massive original rock fireplace. The light-filled rooms with large windows showcase the panoramic mountain views. There is a separate office/art stdio and a separate two bedroom, one bathroom guest house. Plenty of room to park all your farm equipment in the oversized three-car garage. This ranch produces Ojai Pixies, avocados, Cara Cara navel oranges, and a variety of other fruit trees. With a high-producing well along with Casitas ag water meter and solar ...living off the grid never looked so good. Rare opportunity to be part of the Williamson Act for tax savings benefits.
Get Your Mind in the Gutter
How (and Why) to Clean Rain Gutters
By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela
If you have not yet cleaned your gutters this fall, it is time to take care of this important home-maintenance task. It is recommended that we clean our gutters at least twice each year in the spring and fall, and now is the perfect time to have them cleaned in preparation for the coming rain. While cleaning gutters is not a fun chore, it is necessary to make sure they function properly and to reduce the chance of an ember from a wildfire igniting debris in your gutters.
If you have a caretaker, landscaper, or handyman that you use often, ask them if they offer gutter cleaning services. If so, the easiest way to keep your gutters clean is to have them add it to the home maintenance tasks they complete for you in spring and fall. There are also local companies that offer gutter-cleaning services that you can hire if you prefer to not clean them yourself.
The safest and easiest way to clean gutters is to purchase a gutter-cleaning attachment for your leaf blower. This allows you to blow the leaves and other debris out of the gutters while standing safely on the ground. The leaves can be added to your
compost bin, and you will only need a ladder to make sure the gutters are clean. If you do not have a leaf blower with a gutter-cleaning attachment, you will need a ladder, garden hose, spray nozzle, bucket, scrub brush, leaf scoop, gloves, dust mask, and eye protection.
Once you have your protective gear on and your ladder set up, the first step is to remove leaves and other debris with the scoop and deposit it in the bucket to dispose of once you are off the ladder.
Next, use your garden hose, spray nozzle, and scrub brush to spray and scrub the gutters to remove stuck-on leaves and other grime.
Once your gutters are clean, it is time to check the downspouts. Run water from the hose into the top of each downspout to make sure the water flows freely out of the bottom of the pipe. If not, there are likely clogs that you may be able to remove by simply tapping the pipe in various spots to knock clogs loose. If this does not work, you can try spraying a forceful stream of water into it or try removing blockages with a snake. If none of this works, you
may have to remove sections of pipe to remove the clogs.
If this sounds like a lot of work, consider installing gutter screens to keep leaves and other debris out of the gutters.
If you do not have rain gutters, you might want to consider installing them. While the rainfall we receive in the valley is usually only about half of the national average and most Ojai homes do not have basements to protect, there are still good reasons to install a rain management system.
If any part of your home is below ground level, you need gutters to help protect the subterranean walls. If not, gutters can still help keep water away from the foundation where it can seep into walls and cause mold growth or rot wood framing.
Gutters can also help keep you, your family, and your guests dry and comfortable on rainy days by managing the flow of water away from entries, walkways, and patios.
If you opt for a professional to clean or install gutters, be sure to support the local economy by using local contractors.
WHO’S WHO IN OJAI REAL ESTATE?
Ross Falvo
Keller Williams Realty “The Ojai Real Estate Guy” RossFalvo.com 805-207-5094
Nora Davis LIV Sotheby’s International Realty OjaiValleyEstates. com 805-207-6177
Kristen Currier LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
805-798-3757 thehoffgroup. com
Dennis Guernsey
LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
805-798-1998
Therese A. Hartmann is a local loan consultant affiliated with C2 Financial Corporation, and is a Licensed Broker, California BRE #01048403. NMLS # 298291. Call Therese today at (805) 798-2158.
Donna Sallen Remax Gold Coast Realtors Donna4Remax@aol.com
DonnaSallen.com 805-798-0516
Patty Waltcher
LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
Call me for your Real Estate needs. 805-340-3774
Team Deckert
Keller Williams Realty
Ray Deckert, Broker Associate ContactUs@ TeamDeckert. com
805-272-5218
Logan Hall Logan Hall Photography 805-798-0337 loganhallphotos. com
Clinton Haugan LIV | Sotheby’s International Realty
The go-to place for food & sports 820 North Ventura Avenue
OJAI ROTIE
Rotisserie, sourdough, winebox 469 East Ojai Avenue
(805) 798-9227 ojairotie.com
OSTERIA MONTE GRAPPA
Rustic menu of Northern Italian fare & seafood dishes.
242 E Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023 (805) 640-6767 omgojai.com
PAPA LENNON’S
Family owned, original & traditional Italian cuisine
515 West El Roblar Drive (805) 640-7388 papalennons.com
RAINBOW BRIDGE
A community gathering place 211 East Matilija Street (805) 646-6623 rainbowbridgeojai.com
THE RANCH HOUSE
An Ojai culinary destination for more than 60 years
102 Besant Road (805) 646-2360 theranchhouse.com
SAKURA OJAI
A locals’ favorite for Japanese food 219 East Matilija Street (805) 646-8777 sakuraojai.wix.com
SEA FRESH
Serving Ojai for 30 years
533 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-7747 seafreshseafood.com
ZAIDEE’S BAR & GRILL
Patio & indoor dining with Ojai’s most tranquil views
1033 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-5685 soulepark.com
CHEF RANDY’S LIFE OF SPICE
cheesy cauliflower soup
Need a simple but satisfying vegetarian soup recipe for that first cold day of winter? Look no further. This cheesy, creamy cauliflower with cheddar cheese soup is just what your family needs. Serve it with thick slices of toasted French bread, and your loved ones will smack their lips and praise your culinary skills. Seriously. It is that good.
Randy Graham is a noted chef and writer and has been a lacto-ovo vegetarian for over 38 years.
Chef Randy has written and published a series of seven cookbooks with original recipes developed over the period 1975 through 2020. He writes for the Ojai Quarterly, the Ojai Monthly, and the California 101 Travelers Guide. His vegetarian recipes are published in newspapers throughout Central California under the header, Chef Randy. He and his wife, Robin, live in Ojai, California, with their dog Cooper. Robin and Cooper are not vegetarians.
INGREDIENTS :
1 medium head of cauliflower (use florets only)
1 medium sweet onion (chopped)
2 cups vegetable stock
1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon (No Chicken Base)
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
Pinch of ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon white pepper
Fresh flat-leaf parsley (chopped for garnish)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine cauliflower, onion, stock, and bouillon in a large saucepan. Cover and cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender, about ten minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth and cook for two minutes, occasionally stirring. Gradually whisk in milk. Bring almost to a boil, whisking constantly. Reduce heat to simmer and stir in cheese until it melts. Add parsley flakes, nutmeg, and pepper and stir to combine. Pour into the pan with the cauliflower mixture and simmer for 25 minutes.
Remove from the heat and pour into four bowls for serving. Garnish each bowl with parsley and serve with a smile.
RATE EXPECTATIONS
The Fed Making Moves to Give 2024 a Cheaper Finish
By Therese A. Hartmann
Fed rates affect all of us, homeowners or not. Given that rates influence credit cards, auto loans and more, it should be of some interest to everyone.
What’s new? In a follow-up to September’s big half percentage point reduction, the Federal Open Market Committee lowered its benchmark overnight borrowing rate by a quarter percentage point in November to a target range of 4.50 percent-4.75 percent. The rate sets what banks charge each other for overnight lending.
Where are we going? It might not be a secret that President-elect Trump is not a fan of current Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, but Powell insists he will not resign if asked. If he remains, it is expected that the Fed will watch closely to see how the new administration’s policies on taxes, tariffs and immigration affect inflation and demand. The consensus is we will see lower rates.
Therese A. Hartmann has more than 25 years’ lending experience. She is a Licensed Broker, California Dept. of Real Estate #01048403, NMLS # 298291, affiliated with C2 Financial Corporation. For a free consultation, call Therese today at (805) 798-2158.
The job market and rates. The overall thinking is that Fed economists might adjust rates again In December to reflect potential policy shifts. The Fed’s rate cuts attempt to support job growth without wage inflation. Tricky business! Recent data is showing that unemployment is down to about 4.1 percent. This reassurance is part of the reason we are seeing rate cuts
at the end of 2024.
Inflation and rates. In 2023, inflation had most of us worried, especially those on fixed incomes. The recent rate cuts have been a panacea to ease inflationary pressures. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy prices, has cooled to 2.7 percent but I think most of us agree that it is food and energy pricing that often has the largest impact on our wallets. Lower inflation means more purchasing power for everyday consumers with a “normal” rate hovering around 2-3 percent. Fed rate cuts should be seen as part of an effort to restore “normal” rates.
Homeowners and rates. For prospective homebuyers, refinancing homeowners and small business owners, these rate cuts are promising. With lower borrowing costs, we hope to see more opportunities to finance a home, fund business growth or consider that long-awaited renovation. Now wouldn’t that be something to look forward to!
Golden Oaks Glen - 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Spacious Primary Suite with 2 Vanities, Media Room, Two Fireplaces, Walk-In Pantry, Two Laundry Rooms, Over-Sized 2-Car Garage, Swimming Pool & Spa, Patio Fireplace, Built-in Grill with Bar, Family Orchard, RV Hookup & Much More
$3,795,000
5 gated, private acres close to downtown with wrap-around porch, 5 bedrooms, media room, wine cellar with tasting room, library, gym/massage room, 4 fireplaces, pool and spa, sauna, family orchard, olive tree orchard with approximately 30 trees, Bocce court, putting green, volleyball court, chessboard, gazebos, pasture, private well, 150-year copper roof, copper gutters, RV parking with hookups, six-car garage and workshop, and more RoyalOaksRanchOjai.com
Ojai Commercial Property with Parking Lot, Showroom, Workshop, Office, Breakroom or Storage Room, Two Bathrooms, and Great Location in Industrial Area Evolving into Hip Entertainment District 907BryantPlace.com
$1,785,000
Rose Valley Land - Create an off-grid, country retreat on 40 acres with mountain views, trails, and a natural spring in Rose Valley in the Los Padres National Forest
$1,200,000
Two Bedroom, Two Bathroom Manufactured Home + Outbuildings on Flat, Usable, .81-Acre Horse Property Close to Lake Casitas and Oak View Shops & Restaurants
$799,000
Rancho Royale – Historic, 21-acre, remodeled and updated equestrian estate with four-bedroom main house plus eight rentals, 18-stall barn, 16-stall barn, 5 additional barns, 20 covered corrals, four arenas, two round pens, hay and equipment barns, three RV hookups, Preifert panel walker, entertainment barn, archery range, mountain views, and so much more RanchoRoyaleOjai.com
3
$8,199,000
Recent Updates, First-Floor Primary
$1,398,000
This downtown triplex with two units completed in 2024 offers a rare opportunity for an investment property, sharing the property with family or friends, or living in one unit and renting the others for rental income $1,500,000
Sunset Cottage – 2-Bedroom, 1-Bathroom Oak View Home with Fresh Paint, Easy-Care Landscaping, Gated RV Parking, Ceiling Fans, 2-Car Garage, and Covered Front Porch Walking Distance to School, Post Office, Grocery Store, and More $739,000
Oakcrest Roost — 5 Bedrooms,
Bathrooms with
Bedroom, Flexible Spaces, Large Loft, Breakfast Bar, Gas Fireplace, Skylights, Laundry Room with Pantry, Two-Car Garage, Solar Panels, Large Deck, Two Paving Stone Patios, Fruit Trees, Gated RV Parking
This captivating architectural masterpiece, completed in 2022, is a tribute to midcentury-modern design, honoring both craftsmanship and the enchanting land it inhabits. Drawing inspiration from the timeless elegance of midcentury aesthetics, this gated, one-story, 3 & 3, just under 3000 sqft luxury home embodies grace, symmetry, and a seamless connection to nature.
Must experience! Co-listed with Kellye Lynn | DRE 01962469
