July om for web

DISCOVER

OJAI Ju

JEFFERSON STARSHIP

Touching Down in Libbey Bowl!

ly 2 018

MONTHLY Lifestyle & Visitor Information

In Vino Veritas:

Jeremy Leffert on Matching Wine to Moments at Old Creek 805*374•

My Best Ojai Garden

Growing Upwards, inwards

Cover photo courtesy of Agora Foundation - event info on page 18 Visitor Information • Hikes • Events • Activities • Lifestyle Tips & Tactics See More AtOM OjaiHub.com — July 2018

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RANCHO MATILIJA BEAUTY On over two tranquil acres in Rancho Matilija, this ultra-high-quality custom home has gorgeous views, high ceilings and impeccable Brazilian mahogany floors. Influenced by Greene and Greene design, it is adorned with elegant woodwork and cabinetry. Includes finished 3 car garage, workshop area, separate gym, and gated entry for complete privacy. w w w.660 O akGroveCour t O jai. com

PATTY WALTCHER

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

(805) 340-3774 pattywaltcher.com

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OM — July 2018

Built in 1914, The Ojai Playhouse is one of the oldest movie theaters in California. Includes renovation with state-of-the-art seating/equipment as well as the adjacent restaurant space.

145EO jaiAveO jai. com

This light-filled, stylish, contemporary 3bd/2½ba home has amazing views, multiple decks, an open, modern kitchen, wood floors and a detached exercise room/artist studio.

22 0 M o u nt ain View Oa kVi ew.co m

PATTY WALTCHER

O ffered at $ 6 6 5 ,0 0 0

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

(805) 340-3774 pattywaltcher.com OM — July 2018

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J. M. Johnston Construction Craftsman Designed Solutions General Contractor Lic. #849133

805 794-8222

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www.jmjohnston.com OM — July 2018

TEAM

Cheryl & Ray Deckert Broker Associates

Maria DePaola Sheryl Whipple Robert Perron Paul Johnsen Realtor Partner Realtor Associate Realtor Associate Realtor Associate

1217 Gregory Street, Ojai - $479,000

119 Los Cabos Ln., Ventura - $549,000 (pending)

Crisp spring mornings and warm summer nights never felt nicer sitting under the covered back patio of this 2 bedroom/1.25 bathroom, 1,114 sq. ft. home, which includes a large additional flex space – great for an extra bedroom, den, office or whatever you desire.

Upgrades can be found in the kitchen, baths, and in the wood-look tile flooring. Don’t miss the mountain views!

Just minutes from the Ojai Valley and Ventura, you’ll find this turn-key 1,427 sq. ft., 4 bedroom/2 bathroom home with an open floor plan on a quiet, neighborly street.

Niceties include high ceilings, European Larch engineered wood floors, and tile flooring in the kitchen and baths. Out back there’s a koi pond, fire pit, patio area, and several fruit trees. Great value, great location!

Deckert/DePaola Team closed and pending sales in 2018

12284 Linda Flora Dr. Sold for $1,820,000

493 Montana Circle Sold for $1,090,000

54 W. Calle El Prado Sold for $571,400

66 W. Calle El Prado Sold for $574,000

11921 Silver Spur St. Sold for $550,000

460 El Conejo Dr. Sold for $650,000

435 Walbridge Way Sold for $715,000

347 N. Poli St. Sale pending-$679,000

1104 Mariano Dr. Sold for $612,500

11891 Silver Spur St. Sold for $580,000 Represented buyer

541 Thomas St. Sale pending-$549,000

1035 S. La Luna Ave. Sale pending-$929,000

Representing buyer

Representing buyer

www.BestBuysInOjai.com ~ Phone: 805.272.5221 ~ Email: Team@DeckertDePaola.com DRE #01761150, 00780642, 01877842, 01962884, 02019595, 02018091 OM — July 2018

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TABLE OF CONTENTS JULY 2018

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7

Editor’s Note

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Featured Event: Jefferson Starship Touching Down in Libbey Bowl

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Calendar of Events

26

Featured Professional: Jeremy Leffert of Old Creek’s In Vino Veritas

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30 Five Vinegar Solutions for Gardening 34

Eat in Ojai — Restaurant Guide

36

Stay Ojai — Hotels Guide

38

My Ideal Ojai Day: Lauren Van Keulen of Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe

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Sold in Ojai

40 Who’s Who In Ojai 44 Top 10 Trails for Ojai Exploration

Editor & Publisher, Bret Bradigan Realtor/Partner, Ross Falvo Associate Editor, Sarah Howery Hart Contact Us: Laura Rearwin Ward, Sales Manager 805.479.5400 editor@ojaiquarterly.com The contents of the Ojai Monthly may not be used, reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written consent of the publisher.

Cover: Photo courtesy of Peter D’Aprix

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DISCOVER

OJAI Ju

26

JEFERSON STARSHIP

Touching Down in Libbey Bowl!

ly 2 018

MONTHLY Lifestyle & Visitor Information

In Vino Veritas:

Jeremy Lefferts Matching Wine to Moments at Old Creek 805*374•

My Best Ojai Garden Growing Upwards, inwards

Cover photo courtesy of Agora Foundation - event info on page 18 Visitor Information • Hikes • Events • Activities • Lifestyle Tips & Tactics See More AtOM OjaiHub.com — July 2018

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OM — July 2018

44

39

DISCOVER

OJAI MONTHLY

DAM NOTION Watershed’s Reversion to the Old Normal

Bret Bradigan

W

hen I first heard about “Three Sisters” plan I was skeptical. Not because I questioned motives or intentions which I know to be good, but because I’ve borne witness to the unintended consequences of California water

policy.

Isabella Dam was built in 1947 by the U.S. Corps of Engineers as a flood control project for the Kern River’s 1,000 square-mile watershed, not to provide free water to San Joaquin Valley farmers. However, in the intervening years, there has been exactly two flood-control releases. In the mid-1970s, the release flooded parts of the lower valley southwest of Bakersfield ( in essence, recreating the old Tule Lake) and the Corps was forced to pump the many millions of gallons of water out of the basin.

It was a lose-lose for taxpayers.

My suspicion about hooking up to the State Water Project (of which Isabella Dam is part) is the same; that our precious Casitas Lake will be used not for storage, but supply. What’s to stop the state from issuing a “taking” during a drought year, and using our water to supply a housing project in Fontana, or a rice farm in Shafter?

After all, water flows downhill.

Once I learned more about the intricacies of the situation, I realize that there is little precedent for overriding any arrangement made between Calleguas Water District, which seeks a more steady supply and is willing to pay premiums for access to 30,000 acre-feet a year, and the city of Ventura, which wants to hook up to the State Water Project to increase the diversity of their supply, and Casitas Municipal Water District, which has a jewel in its pocket with the reservoir. The expense of building a new reservoir in southern California is frightening. And if the state were determined to take our water, they would. Compared to those hundreds of millions — much of which would go for litigation — the $30 million for the 7 miles of channel and pumping station is minimal.

As water expert Richard Hajas has pointed out, we have forecast our water needs on a 30-year historical average that includes far too many wet years. If we are indeed returning to a drier weather pattern, aside from the unpredictability of climate change, Ojai may end up high and dry. Having more diverse supplies of water may benefit us as much as it leaves us vulnerable to shifting supplies around on a statewide level.

In matters of public policy, it’s wise to assume complete ignorance on the part of the public. Not because people are stupid, but because we are problem solvers. For a problem to be solved, it must first exist. Then we get to work. When it comes to water supply, that time may be long overdue. These extended droughts, far from being anomalous, may be a return to the old normal.

OM — July 2018

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GREEN BUILDING FEATURE

SAVE OUR STARS

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e are referring to saving Ojai's star-studded night skies. To us, it is a key aspect of building more environmentally friendly homes as well as protecting views of starlight and dark skies. The challenge is that people today have a love affair with lighting. Many homeowners think outdoor lights are synonymous with safety and security...and the more light the better.

The International Dark Sky Association is leading a movement to stop light pollution and protect the night skies for present and future generations. In fact, millions of children across the globe will never see the Milky Way from their own homes.

Every April since 2003, they have "Turned on the Night" during Dark Sky Week. One way that homeowners and building professionals can achieve a goal of a night sky brimming with visible stars is through wise use of outdoor lighting. An added plus beyond eliminating light pollution cast from your home onto your neighbors’ properties is mitigating its negative impact on the ecosystems of our local nocturnal animals.

Here are some techniques that can help you “fade to black” around your residence, while still providing the safety and security we all value:  Use fully shielded exterior light fixtures—or angle them downward—so that light only shines down and eliminates neighbor “light trespass”.  Look for dark sky lighting fixtures with the light source in the cap. Honey or opal opaque glass is needed to control light if bulb is not in the cap.  As much as possible, locate fixtures under porches and overhangs.  Use motion sensors and/or timers on exterior light fixtures, so that lights are on only when triggered and for the length of time needed.  Use only enough light to get the job done—meaning the fewest number of fixtures, minimum height, and low wattage.  Avoid blue white lights wherever possible. Instead, try to select warm/soft white LED lamps or light bulbs. Long wavelength light with a red or yellow tint will minimize impact.

For more information, call, click or visit Allen Construction.

805.884.8777 | buildallen.com

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OM — July 2018

Mid Century Estate | 11+ Acres | Two Legal Parcels | $3,795,000 | www.1071RanchoDr.com 727 W. Ojai Ave. - Ojai - CA 93023 - Larry - 805.640.5734 - Erik - 805.830.3254 www.wilde-wilde.cm - lwilde@west.net - erikw@west.net Larry Wilde DRE:#15216270 - Erik Wile DRT:#01461074

Stephen Adelman

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

“Your Family Man Realtor”

JOE DAVIS

PROPERTY SHOPPE

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DIVISION

805-574-9774 PROPERTY SHOPPE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DIVISION

JOE DAVIS

FULL SERVICE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT "The Rental Guy" RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

805-640-5563 www.ojailuxuryrealestate.com Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe

www.JoeTheRentalGuy.com JOE DAVIS

Lic# 01786486

"The Rental Guy" 727 W OJAI AVE, OJAI CA 93023 • BRE #01999568

Mind Your Manors

Second Home & Vacation Home Management Services

Second Home Management Services • Local point of contact for house checks, deliveries & emergencies • Scheduling & management of housekeepers & landscapers • Bid acquisition & scheduling of contractors • Customized plans to fit your property, schedule & lifestyle • Short-term services available for temporary relocations

www.MindYourManors.info 805.258.3051 AJ@MindYourManors.info

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OM — July 2018

The Williamson-VanKeulen Group let us show you what living ojai is all about

Hip Vintage Charmer

207 Topa Topa Dr

in escrow

modern downtown oasis

403 franklin dr

nature-inspired east end craftsman

2477 fordyce rd

anne williamson

realtor of the year 2014

805.320.3314•bre#01448441

cassandra vankeulen realtor, designer

lauren vankeulen realtor

805.798.1272•bre#01929366

805.798.2397•bre#01973956

www.thewilliamsonkeulengroup.com

1.833.Buy.Ojai

COLDWELL BANKER PROPERTY SHOPPE • 727 WEST OJAI AVE, OJAI, CA. 93023

OM — July 2018

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Dale Hanson 805-646-7229

Heather Erickson 805-798-3358

Glenn Kuhr 805 760-0366

Carol Blanton 805-798-2246

This property is in the heart of Ojai, walking distance to downtown. It has a deep lot. It is a fixer, but worth the expense. $445,000 Heather Erickson: 805-798-3358

OPPORTUNITY AWAITS: Step in and finish this construction project for a two-story view home. Owner has done most of the preliminary work for plans that will add an additional two bedrooms and bath over a two-car garage. The second floor will offer spectacular views of the mountains surrounding Lake Casitas. Plans and soils report on file. $389,000 Carol Blanton: 805-798-2246

Light, bright and immaculate** This 1989 Manufactured home located in the tranquil Mira Valle 55+ Mobile Home Community. This home offers high ceilings, professionally painted interior walls, newly installed engineered wood floors, custom cordless blinds, newer kitchen and utility sinks, newer stove and water heater. High-end guest bathroom remodel. $174,500 Heather Erickson: 805-798-3358

This 3+2 with open floor plan is located in the back row of the highly desirable Ojai Valley Estates Family Park. Large master suite with sunken tub and separate shower, Central Air/Heat, Walk-in closets, Huge dining room, Breakfast room/office area and kitchen offer mountain views. Roomy laundry utility room. Fenced yard for entertaining and three-car parking. $159,000 Heather Erickson: 805-798-3358

Great location for commercial business or restaurant. Large parking lot in back. Building is updated and very clean. Forced air and heating, 3 private offices. A bathroom and small wet kitchen. Separate attached unit with 3/4 bath and private entrance and address. $815,000 Dale Hanson 805-646-7229

This quality Fleetwood Crown Point home has 1,434 sf of living space and features an open kitchen that adjoins a sunny dining area. Livng room is large enough for entertaining. Master bedroom suite is huge and walk-in closet is another room. $205,000 Carol Blanton: 805-798-2246

The Walbridge family name is well known and respected in Ventura County and is the namesake of the private lane leading to the 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom home and 5-acre grove. A spacious 2nd floor potential 2nd master suite with loft is a unique feature of this lovely property. Mountain views in every direction add to the outdoor enjoyment of this rare property. $1,650,000. Glenn Kuhr: 805-760-0366

**2018’ Never before lived in** Champion manufactured home in the Mira Valle 55+ Community. This home offering nearly 1300 sq ft of living space is located on a corner lot with an open, light and bright floor plan. The kitchen and baths offer quartz counter tops. The kitchen also features stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, a large island with overhead lighting and wine shelf and all open to living room. $259,000 Heather Erickson: 805-798-3358

Elegant SKYLINE Anniversary edition manufactured home in one of Ojai’s finest parks.There are two bedrooms and an office that could be used as a third bedroom if desired. Master bedroom suite features double sinks in the bath and a walk-in closet. $209,000 Carol Blanton: 805-798-2246

Ojai Valley Real estate Sales/Property Management/Notary

www.ojaivalleyrealestate.com 206 East Ojai Avenue (next to the Ojai Village Pharmacy)

646-4911 ovhl@west.net

221 East Matilija Street

(Across from the Sunday Farmers Market)

Jefferson Starship’s

TOUCH DOWN in Ojai’s Libbey Park

W

hen the band Jefferson Starship performs at Ojai’s Libbey Bowl on July 14, it will mark just past midpoint in a year that has seen the group, co-founded in 1974 by David Freiberg and Paul Kantner, continuously on the road, often performing several times a week. To further attest to the band’s continuing and growing popularity, there over 30 more 2018 appearances already scheduled across the United States, with more dates being added. The group also performs internationally, including most recently Scandinavia, and according to Freiberg, a European trip is on the horizon.

Concerning the songs being performed at the Libbey Park concert, Freiberg says “It always depends on the night, but we’ll sing the songs people expect us to play.” The repertoire on July 14, like any given performance, is sure to provide a combination of the music of both Jefferson Starship and the group responsible for their origin, Jefferson Airplane. This includes the enormously popular “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love.”

Airplane first performed on Aug. 13, 1965 at San Francisco’s Matrix nightclub, landing in history during the country’s counterculture movement, when the “belief system” espoused by baby-boomers entering their teens included “Make love, not war,” “Don’t trust anyone over 30,” “Turn on, tune in, and drop out.” A common denominator for those young

Founded by the late Paul Kantner, Jefferson

By Sarah Howery Hart OM — July 2018

people was music, psychedelics and rock-and-roll, springing up especially San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury area, with the introduction of new bands such as Jefferson Airplane.

The early Jefferson Airplane performances featured Kantner, vocals and guitar, Grace Slick, vocals, Marty Balin, vocals and guitar, Paul Jorma Kaukonen, guitar, Jack Casady, bass, Skip Spence, an original Moby Grape member, on drums, and Signe Anderson, vocals. In 1966 13

Spencer Dryden joined as drummer, and Grace Slick, vocalist, came onboard. In addition to “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love,” other early hits included “Volunteers,” from the album of the same name,and other hit albums including, “Surrealistic Pillow” and “Bark.”

Jefferson Airplane’s first actual concert was staged at San Francisco’s Fillmore Auditorium in February 1966, and from there they performed at all of the noteworthy venues and events, including the Berkeley Folk Festival,

the bill with Jefferson Airplane, joined Airplane himself, at Kantner’s request, for what turned out to be that group’s final tour. When Kantner decided to form another band, Freiberg was onboard for that effort too..

Their first hurdle was finding a name for the new group, as Kantner only co-owned the name Jefferson Airplane.

“When Starship started in the 1970s,” Freiberg explains, “we started out with Paul, Grace and I.” However, having written Paul’s original album, “Blows

seller, No. 1 on the charts, continuing in that spot off and on for months, selling over 2 million copies. That led the way to more top hits, million-seller “Spitfire,” in June 1976, and “Earth,” February 1978, going platinum, followed by Top Ten hit “Count On Me.” Between 1974 and 1984, Jefferson Starship had eight goldand platinum-selling albums, 20 hit singles, and they enjoyed national and international sold-out concerts However, Freiberg adds that sometimes amid the band’s great success, friendships became strained, with many members leaving from time to time including Marty Balin and Slick. “And then I left shortly afterward.” In 1985, the band retired.

But retirement seemed unacceptable to everyone, and in the early 1990s, Paul Kantner revived the group, not long before Jefferson Airplane’s 1996 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Freiberg himself didn’t return until 2005. “Paul asked in 2005 if I would like to sit in, and I did, and it was fun.” He says that, in fact, it was so much fun he sat in on the group’s next performance, too. And with that, he was back.

Monterey Jazz Festival, Monterey Pop Festival, Woodstock, and Altamont.

During summer 1968, they co-headlined with the Doors in Europe, and eventually that group and other musical legends opened for Jefferson Airplane, including the Grateful Dead, Santana, Jimi Hendrix, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Who, Janis Joplin, Steve Miller, and others. In 1968, Jefferson Airplane appeared on the cover of Life Magazine.

But due to a variety of problems, including creative differences and band members moving to other groups such as Hot Tuna, in September 1972 Jefferson Airplane disbanded.

*** JEFFERSON STARSHIP *** Shortly before the split, Freiberg, whose San Francisco band, Quicksilver Messenger Service, had often shared

Against the Empire,” with its sci-fi theme, a hijacked starship escaping from earth, the problem was resolved. “So, Paul labeled us the ‘Jefferson Starship Crew,’” Freiberg explains. “And, at one point, Grace and Paul and I were sitting, around discussing a name for the new group, and I said, “Let’s call the new band Jefferson Starship.”

That band, Jefferson Starship, took off with Kantner on rhythm guitar and vocals; Slick on vocals; Freiberg on vocals and keyboards. “It was exciting for me, “Freiberg recalls. “I had just joined Jefferson Airplane, it was their last tour.”

He adds that the next step was to add other musicians, including some from Jefferson Airplane.

“It was kind of loose at first,” Freiberg recalls, “then we started making albums that came out, “Dragon Fly,” “Red Octopus.”

The latter, recorded in 1975, became a best

In 2016, Kantner passed away, and Jefferson Starship continued touring with its remaining and current members, Freiberg, continuing with vocals and guitar, Donny Baldwin on drums, Chris Smith, keyboard, Jude Gold, lead guitar, and Cathy Richardson, vocals, assuming Grace Slick’s role.

* * INCREASING POPULARITY * * Following the philosophies of each of the Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship groups, the current group is committed to both its own work and that of its predecessors. A press release on the Libbey Park performance states, “Today’s Jefferson Starship remains dedicated to breathing new life into the living catalog of the Jefferson legacy, going to the edge, pushing the sonic boundaries and staying true to the original spirit of the music, on and off stage.”

And like its predecessors, today’s Jefferson Starship is enjoying increasing popularity as evidenced by their growing

social media presence, including pages established by fans with thousands of followers.

Even members of the group themselves have been fans, Freiberg says. “Cathy Richardson is a fantastic singer, and she was a fan when she was a teenager.”

He continues, “There’s a reason our music appeals to everyone; They’re good songs. People who are fans even turn their kids on to us.” Audiences frequently comprise parents, their children, and their children. “And then we’ll play someplace in Florida and have an audience of retired folks, and they’ll boogie like everyone else.”

Concerning a Jefferson Starship performance in celebration of Jefferson Airplane’s 50th anniversary, a St. Augustine, Florida travel guide stated, “Jefferson Airplane founders Paul Kantner and David Freiberg created Jefferson Starship to continue playing the amazing repertoire of hits of Jefferson Airplane — music that helped define a generation with their outspoken stance on civil rights and anti-war activism.”

Today, Jefferson Starship members, even those not currently with the band, continue to speak their minds, with activism on many levels. This includes Grace Slick, retired since the 1990s, who

*** PROTEST ***

One song, in particular, Jefferson Airplane’s 1969 “Volunteers,” seemed to summarize the group’s philosophies and beliefs, and a 1972 interview for Crawdaddy Magazine stated that listening to “Volunteers” resulted in thousands of fans thrusting fists in the air, responding to what they believed the song was addressing, the wrongdoing in Washington at that time, a la President Richard Nixon and all his men.

“It’s hard to think that’s been around for 50 years,” Freiberg says of “Volunteers.”

Such songs remain on Jefferson Starship’s agenda, and Freiberg adds that he is working on some new such songs of his own. “It’s speaking the truth to the power,” he says.

from the US Department of Defense.

“Times have changed,” the Libbey Park press release states, “but the music remains as relevant as ever. Massive hits like “White Rabbit,” “Somebody to Love,” “Volunteers,” and “We Built This City” continue to reverberate in pop culture today through films, TV, commercials and heavy rotation on classic rock radio.” For instance, Frieberg’s hit composition, “Jane,” was incorporated into a 2009 video game.

Regarding Jefferson Starship, Kantner once said, “Jefferson Starship was my

Through the years there have been fans for another reason. When considering the band’s desire to perpetuate the original Jefferson Airplane spirit it would be difficult not to mention what might be referred to as a protest element.

However, according to a 2012 Yuzu Melodies magazine interview, Kantner disagreed with the idea that the group’s music was geared at confronting politics, that he purposefully stayed away from politics, and Frieberg responds, “It wasn’t about politics per se, it was about the reason that something wasn’t working.

It was more about power than politics.

You look at what’s happening and what’s wrong, and what is good for people and what is bad for people.”

received the Certificate of Appreciation

creation… and it has this nice fluidity about it that allows any number of people to come in and do things with whatever Jefferson Starship is.”

That fluidity today includes continuously creating new music. “We’re writing our own material,” Freiberg says.

“One new song is on its way to being done.” He adds that this song may debut at Libbey Bowl.

The fluidity also includes continuously being on the road, and Freiberg says there is plenty of motivation on all accounts. “I allowed the fast-food chain Chick-Fil-A to use the Jefferson Starship song, “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now,” then donated the proceeds to an LBGT-related foundation, a cause that the restaurant opposes.

In discussing the event, Slick said, “See, I come from a time when artists didn’t just sell their soul to the highest bidder, when musicians took a stand, when the message of songs was ‘feed your head,’ not ‘feed your wallet,’ which was a reference to “White Rabbit’s” last line, ‘feed your head.’”

Likewise, in 2014 and 2015 Jefferson Starship performed concerts to benefit Helping Hospitalized Veterans, Freiberg says about wounded vets, “Whether you agree with the war, this person was told he’d be taken care of and should be taken care of. And they tend not to be taken care of. You have to do what you say you’re going to do.” For their efforts, the group

love the music, and right now at this time, I love the particular band that we have right at this moment. It’s one voice, and everybody in this band looks forward to getting together again and again.”

Jefferson Starship’s July 14 performance at Libbey Bowl, 210 South Signal Street Ojai, begins at 7 p.m., with gates opening at 5 p.m. Tickets may be purchased through the Libbey Bowl website, libbeybowl.org/ event/jefferson-starship, or from the box office: 888-645-5006.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS JULY “33 Variations” Date: Through July 15 Time: 7:30 on Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. on Sundays.

Location: Ojai Art Center, 113 South Montgomery Street Moises Kaufman’s “33 Variations” bridges two centuries surrounded by the music of Beethoven, live on stage each performance.

Contact: ojaiartcenter.org, 805-646-0117.

“StARCHITECTURE: Ojai by Design Date: July 7 to Oct. 28 Time: Sundays, noon to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Location: 130 West Ojai Avenue.

Contact: ojaivalleymuseum.org, 805-646-1390 Free reception, July 7, 5 to 7 p.m. Some of those featured are Greene and Greene, Myron Hunt and Elmer Grey, Julia Morgan, Richard Neutra, Rodney A Walker and Paul R Williams.

“Agora Foundation’s ‘33 Variations’ Seminar” Date: July 8 Time: 2 to 6:30 p.m.

Location: Ojai Art Center, 113 South Montgomery Street Contact: Agora Foundation, 805-231-5974 theagorafoundation.org The Agora Foundation invites you

to attend Ojai Art Center Theatre’s performance of “33 Variations.” Enjoy a Seminar, Director Conversation and Postshow Gathering at Azu Restaurant.

“George Winston Benefit Performance” Date: July 13 Time: 7 to 9 p.m.

Location: Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts, 8585 Ojai-Santa Paula Rd. (in Upper Ojai) and the Zalk Theater George Winston, a legendary pianist known for his distinctive approach to piano, is coming to Ojai to present benefit concerts for The Besant Hill School of Happy Valley and the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts, who were both impacted by the Thomas Fire.

REOCCURING EVENTS

“Medicinal Plant Workshop with Pharmacy Professor James Adams” Date: July 14 Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Location: Cluff Vista Park, Ojai Museum’s Chumash Garden Contact: HerbWalks.com, 805-646-6281 The workshop will be based on Dr. Adams’ ground-breaking pharmacological studies on local native plants as described in his book Healing with Medicinal Plants of the West, co-authored with the late Chumash healer Cecilia Garcia.

“Surf Rodeo” Date: July 14 Time: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Location: Pierpont Beach, Ventura Contact: surfrodeo.org

Contact: 646-5508 ext.103 Contact: 640-1390 meditationmount.org ojaivalleymuseum.org Certified Farmer’s Market Date: Every Sunday “Eating Ojai” Food Tour Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“First Friday Free” Date: Call to schedule Contact: 698-5555 Date: First Friday of the month REOCCURING EVENTS Time: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Location: Matilija Street city parking lot Time: Please call the Museum office to Certified Farmer’s Market Location: Varies behind the Arcade. schedule Date: Every Sunday Contact: 295-8687 Open air market featuring locally Location: Departs from the Ojai Valley Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. venturafoodtours.com grown produce, plants, musicians and Museum, 130 West Ojai Avenue Contact: 698-5555 handmade items, including soaps, basContact: 640-1390 Location: Matilija Street city parking lot behind the Arcade.

Morning, Guided and Full Moon kets, beeswax candles and olive oil. ojaivalleymuseum.org Open air market featuring locally grown produce, plants, musicians and handmade items, including soaps, baskets, beeswax Meditations Historical Walking Tours of Ojai candles and olive oil.

Date: Call or check website.

Date: Saturdays “Ojai Fiction Writing Workshop” Time: 7 to 8 p.m.

Time: 10:30 a.m.

Date: Every Thursday Historical Walking Tours of Ojai Location: Meditation Mount, 10340 Location: Departs from the Ojai Valley Time: 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Date: Every Tuesday through Sunday Reeves Road Museum, 130 West Ojai Avenue Location: Ojai Library, 111 East Ojai Time: Please call the Museum office to schedule

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OM — July 2018

OPPOSITE PAGE: Famed pianist George Winston will play a benefit show at Zalk Theater on July 13; Los Lonely Boys will take the stage at Libbey

“Jefferson Starship ” Date: July 14 Time: 7 to 10 p.m.

Location: Libbey Bowl, 210 South Signal Today’s Jefferson Starship remains dedicated to breathing new life into the living catalog of the Jefferson legacy, going to the edge, pushing the sonic boundaries and staying true to the original spirit of the music, on and off stage “Los Lonely Boys” Date: July 19 Time: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Location: Libbey Bowl, 210 South Signal Street, Ojai Hailing from San Angelo, Texas, Los Lonely Boys are a sibling trio whose music draws equally from rock, blues, Tex-Mex,

Avenue Contact: 640-6865 vencolibrary.org

Bowl on July 19. THIS PAGE: On July 15, pharmacologist James Adams will lead a medicinal plant workshop; Runa comes to Dancing Oak on July 22.

conjunto, and tejano. Such a combination is shaped by the band’s three brothers: guitarist Henry Garza, bassist JoJo Garza, and drummer Ringo Garza, Jr. “The Fixx” Date: July 21 Time: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Location: Libbey Bowl, 210 South Signal Street The Fixx has been often heralded as one of the most innovative bands to come out of the MTV era. Songs such as “One Thing Leads To Another”, “Red Skies,” and “Saved

By Zero” remain everyday staples on the playlists of the rock.

“Ojai Concert Series Presents Runa” Date: July 22 Time: 5 to 9:30 p.m.

Location: Dancing Oak Ranch, 4585 Casitas Pass Road Contact: ojaiconcertseries.com Interweaving the haunting melodies and exuberant tunes of Ireland and Scotland with the lush harmonies and intoxicating rhythms of jazz, bluegrass, flamenco, and blues, they offer a thrilling and redefining take on traditional music.

Time: varies Location: varies Contact: 272-8102 or email ride@ themobshop.com or online at porchgalleryojai.com Ojai bike tour features agricultural, artistic, culinary, cultural and historical “Ojai Seeker’s Bike Meditation Mount landmarks in Ojai.

Tour” hosts Full Moon MedDate: By reservation 48 itations. Check their hrs in advance website at meditationmount.org or call 646Meditation Mount’s next Full 5508 for more updates.

Moon Meditation is planned for July 26.v Check their website at meditationmount.org or call 6465508 for updates.

“Shakespeare Salon” Date: First and third Mondays Time: 7 to 9 p.m.

Location: Ojai Library,111 East Ojai Avenue Contact: 646-1639

OM — July 2018

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BE_OQad_3.pdf

1

10/10/2017

BookEnds Bookstore

& Curiosities new and used books

on Life, Liberty & Happiness 110 South Pueblo Avenue Ojai, California 93023 in Meiners Oaks, corner of El Roblar

open 10 am to 6 pm (closed Wed)

bookendsbookstore.com

805.640.9441

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OM — July 2018

2:08 PM

ojaihub.com

Ojai’s community website

events • news • explore Created by the Ojai Quarterly; supported by the Ojai Valley Business Community.

OM — July 2018

19

Learn to ride this summer

Beginner to Advanced Riders English or Western style Camps Daily or Weekly Group and Individual Rides

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Ojai Valley Trail Riding Co. Call 805-890-9340 www.ojaitrailridingcompany.com

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deAdline FoR Ad chAnges is 12:00 noon the tuesdAy PRioR to thAt issues ReleAse.

d by the production department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property of Southland Publishing. placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the express consent of plus any applicable fees. p ok to run date:_______________________________

or accuracy and is quality of reproduction.

p ok to run with correction

20

Signature: __________________________

OM — July 2018

Come Home To THE VERY BEST LOW/NO V.O.C. PAINT AT A GREAT PRICE

Available at Frontier Paint 227 Baldwin Rd, Ojai 646-0459 • Frontierpaintca.com

buena

tile | stone | design

Selling quality in Ojai for over 35 years

1717 Palma Drive Ventura 805.650.1252 518 E. Haley Street Santa Barbara 805.963.8638 buenatile.com

Walk-ins welcome!

Dale Hanson

Ojai Valley Real Estate (805)646-7229

B.R.E. 01229522 Notary Public

dale@ojaivalleyrealestate.com Call me for your real estate needs.

Residential, commercial, or business opportunity.

Open Daily two Ojai locations: AA Relaxing Station 323 E Matilija St. 805-302-1166 1002 E Ojai Ave, Suite B 805-299-5899 BambooCreekSpa.com

Great location for commercial business or restaurant. Large parking in back. The building is updated and very clean. Forced air and heating, 3 private offices. A bath room and small wet kitchen. Separate attached unit with 3/4 bath and private entrance and address. $815,000

OM — July 2018

21

Derby & Derby, Inc.

“Big Company Capabilities, Small Company Service”

Investment & Insurance Planning and Services Since 1979 State of California Registered Investment Advisor

California insurance licenses #0575624 and 0A38521

Wealth Management Retirement Planning Estate Preservation Legacy Planning Life Insurance & Annuities Long-Term Care

(805) 646-3729

603 West Ojai Ave., Suite C PO Box 189, Ojai, CA 93024 vicki@derbyandderby.com 22

Donna Lloyd Vice President

Margaret Marapao CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™

Cindy Rodarte Administrative Executive

Victoria Derby Breen Owner/President

Securities offered through Securities America, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Derby & Derby, Inc., State of California Registered Investment Advisor. Derby & Derby, Inc. and Securities America, Inc. are separate entities.

OM — July 2018

Dennis Guernsey 805-798-1998

Broker/Owner, State Licensed Appraiser, General Contractor

Coldwell Banker ProPerty ShoPPe Ojai homes, Ojai ranches, Ojai commercial real estate.

Experienced and knowledgeable Realtors serving the Ojai Valley for over 30 years.

One of a kind completely refurbished French style stone cottage, with detached studio/bedroom in the heart of Ojai, ultra private setting with fruit trees and new flowering drought tolerant landscaping. $619,500

Hard to find 1-story 2-bedroom, 2-bath Taormina home in great location. One of Ojai’s first historic districts. Gas lantern street lights, rural mailboxes and cypress trees give the ambience of French Norman Village. Direct access to Ojai Preserve featuring gorgeous trails and protected wetlands. Adjacent to Krotona Institute which offers lectures, workshops, library, native gardens, valley views and more. Lots of upgrades including limestone counters, expanded master bedroom and bath and single car garage. $619,000

Add this to your best buy list!

Immaculate 3-bed 2.5 bath 2 story home in Mira Monte. Brick entry, wood floors, living room with brick fireplace, formal dining room with tile floors, kitchen breakfast bar, 2 car garage, lots of oak trees and more. Secluded rear patio and side yard. Master bedroom with sitting area and deck with great vistas. Won’t last at this price! $629,500

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. $699,500

STOP & LOOK!

By far the best land buy in Ojai.

Incredible flat 20-acre parcel in heart of Upper Ojai. Located in rear of 11999 Ojai-Santa Paula Road and part of the renowned Hall Ranch.

Water available. Great mountain views - all usable - Perfect for planting, horses or private estate. Buyer to verify utilities. $849,500

Dennis Guernsey, Cell: 805-798-1998 • Office: 805 646-7288

Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe Ojai 727 W Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023 • dennisguernsey.com • www.ojaicoldwell.com

Donna Sallen

RE/MAX Gold Coast Realtors

Located in the heart of Ojai.

805-798-0516

Beautiful, downtown La Amistad townhome is just waiting for you.

In the prestigious East End of Ojai, down a private lane,

Located in the quaint Oaks West neighborhood on a tree-lined street, you will enjoy this large family home.

sits an elegantly modern home recently remodeled by Joseph

Spacious family home located in a great neighborhood.

​Beautifully remodeled home on a quiet cul-de-sac in Ojai.

Lam, owner of Zen West Design.

There’s no place like home ...

Let me find yours.

Sitting perfectly on nearly 1.5 acres, this East End Ojai home offers a spacious, open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, large rock fireplaces, two master suites and guest quarters.

Donna Sallen 805-798-0516 www.donnasallen.com

IN VINO VERITAS

Jeremy Leffert

Connecting People Through Wine at Old Creek

By Sarah Howery Hart

“I love being a winemaker,” says Jeremy Leffert, master of wine at Old Creek Winery south of Ojai. “It gives me the opportunity to connect with people.

Wine covers all of humanity.” This love of wine captured Leffert’s heart many years ago.

A San Diego native, Leffert was raised in Minnesota when his parents moved there. He headed for the University of Vermont to pursue Environmental Studies, but after frequent visits to his parents’ new home in Santa Barbara, he moved there next. It was a job there, at Trader Joe’s, that became the impetus for his life-long love of wine.

“We started doing these in-store tastings of wines we were selling,” Leffert recalls. Because his co-workers were educated in the subject, he wanted to learn more. “I started going to wineries to taste. I was getting into it, had consumed wine before but didn’t really appreciate it.” Soon, his appreciation led to a goal: He decided to become a vineyard manager.

“It was unexpected, because back then wine was a pretentious-looking kind of field. But I found out that there was a group of people quite the opposite.”

He even kept journals on tasted wines, and in 2003 began Cal Poly’s master’s program in Crop Sciences, with a focus in viticulture. He interned, too. “At some point I wanted to make sure vineyard

management was really what I wanted to do, so I took a harvest position at Four Vines, then I was hooked.”

facility farther north. Along with consulting, then Leffert officially became Winemaker for Old Creek.

After graduating, Leffert joined Hearst Ranch Winery in 2009 for the inception of the Hearst wines brand, as assistant winemaker, then winemaker.

“From the beginning of that brand until 2014, I was there.”

“I started retooling the wine style,” Leffert says concerning the Old Creek offerings. “I strive as a winemaker to make decisions in the cellar that will highlight or improve the kind of natural voice that the vineyard has.” He explains that the Holguin family’s goal was to “freshen the vibe at Old Creek,” and accordingly, Leffert developed corresponding wines. “They’re bolder, richer, the profile is more vibrant,” he explains. Those wines include his 2016 Chardonnay; 2015 Cabernet Franc; and 2015 Red Wine (92 percent Syrah, 8 percent Viognier).

His next position was with a customcrush facility, The Workshop, in San Luis Obispo, a business he explains this way: if you want to start a winery and need a place to make wine that has the infrastructure and the team, this is where you take your grapes. You can be involved as much or as little as you want.” He says it was exciting, with about 40 brands being crushed in custom quantities. “I was the leader, met with a lot of winemakers,” However, this was soon to end; the owner decided to close. “I had all of these contacts,” Leffert says, “wineries that had nowhere to go.

So, I kept consulting.”

It was through consulting and a winemaker friend that Leffert connected with Old Creek Winery during the sale to Andrew and Jane Holguin in 2015.

“Andy and I just hit it off,” Leffert says.

“There was an existing winemaker but he wasn’t going to stay.” Leffert continues that he was invited to work on-site, but he and Holguin agreed to move winery operation to a production

“I enjoy the idea that what I put a great deal of love into ends up bringing friends and families together during times of love, laughter, and even sadness”

“In a sense, the wines I make bring people together to the table in common or celebration. People have an emotional connection with food, and wine goes with food and is a social lubricant. I enjoy the idea that what I put a great deal of love into ends up bringing friends and families together during times of love, laughter, and even sadness. Wine and Food bring people together.”

20 Acres | House and Guest House | Unrivaled Vistas | $3,850,000 | 1510Farnham.com

Mid Century Estate | 11+ Acres | Two Legal Parcels $3,795,000 | 1071RanchoDr.com

First Time To Market!

Nine Homes | 31 Acres

6300 SF | Water Well | Guest House Artist/Yoga Studio | Impeccable

Spectacular 6300 SF - Guest House Workshop/Hobby Bldg | 100% Well Water

Downtown Ojai | 3 Unit Commercial Property | 411WOjai.com

41 Acres | Rancho Matilija $1,500,000 ranchomatilija41acres.com

Larry Wilde began his real estate career in Ojai in 1975, and by 1978, together with his partner Dennis Guernsey, formed the local Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe. Today it is the premier brokerage in the Ojai Valley.

10-1/4 Acre Padaro Beach | Ocean Vistas | Summerland Beachfront | $49,000,000 | www.Padaro-Lane.com

Classic 1925 Downtown Spanish | Pool Guest House $1,995,000 | 608ElPaseo.com

2065 Los Encinos | Ojai Mid-Century Home with Pool 2065LosEncinos.com

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

Ojai Creekside Condo 1,900+ Sq Ft | 4 Bed | 2 Bath

Immaculate Remodeled Mid-Century Gem in Downtown Ojai | $1,049,000

Bryant Circle Industrial 2490+ SF includes solar! | $995,000

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

FIVE GARDEN HACKS USING VINEGAR

By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela

There are plenty of products on the market that will clean your counter tops, kill weeds, remove rust, or disinfect toys.

The problem with most of these commercial products is that they contain harsh chemicals that are bad for your family, your pets, and the environment. They are also far more expensive than simpler, natural, old-school options that we have relied on for generations — like vinegar.

Simple, inexpensive vinegar is an effective option with hundreds of uses, inside and outside of your home. Just to get you started, you can use it in your washer to keep black clothes blacker, leave a bowl of it in a closed room to absorb odors, or mix it with water for an effective glass cleaner. Outside, you can use vinegar to clean the globes on landscape lighting, disinfect your outdoor kitchen and patio furniture, wash fruits and vegetables from your garden, and deodorize non-living ground covers in pet restroom areas.

So, bypass those commercial products, grab the vinegar out of your pantry, and check out these five garden hacks that are so simple and inexpensive, you might be a little upset that you didn’t know about them sooner.

1. Remove Mineral Deposits on Clay Pots: Clay pots are a favorite among gardeners, but they tend to lose their visual appeal as mineral deposits cover their terra cotta color. If you appreciate the patina, you can leave it be, particularly since the mineral deposits aren’t really hurting anything. But, if you would like to restore your container garden to its former glory, all you need is water, vinegar, and a scrub brush. Fill a bucket or tub with equal parts vinegar and water, soak your pots for about 30 minutes to loosen the mineral deposits, and then scrub your pots until the residue is gone.

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OM — July 2018

2. Keep cats out of your flowerbed: You love your neighbors’ cats and would never want any harm to come to them, but that does not mean you have to love them digging up your flowerbeds or napping in your vegetable garden. Deter them humanely and naturally by ‘spraying or pouring vinegar at the edges of your garden or along the borders of your flowerbeds.

Keep in mind that vinegar is an indiscriminate vegetation killer, so be sure to avoid getting vinegar too close to desirable plants.

3. Kill weeds naturally: While we are on the topic of vinegar being an indiscriminate killer of all things green, a spray bottle filled with this natural herbicide may be all you need to take away your weed woes and help you avoid spraying toxic chemicals in your yard. You will want to pick up vinegar with 20 percent acidity at one of the local nurseries or hardware stores for this task, since the vinegar you use around the house is only 5 percent acidity. Two things to keep in mind: You may need to spray tough weeds repeatedly before they die and do not spray vinegar on wanted plants.

4. Restore rusted garden tools: If your shovels and pruning shears have seen better days, you can easily remove rust and restore them to their former luster with little more than vinegar and a rag. Soak lightly rusted implements in vinegar for five to 10 minutes to see if that is enough to remove the rust. Tools with more significant rust will likely need to be soaked overnight.

5. Acidify your soil: I know I just told you that vinegar will kill just about anything green, but there are some instances where vinegar can actually help your plants thrive. While this is not true of all plants, it is true of the acid-loving ones, such as azaleas, rhododendrons, hydrangeas, and gardenias. You still do not want to get it on the leaves, but you can give these plants a boost by mixing in one cup of vinegar with a gallon of water in your watering can every once in a while.

my ojai garden

By Leslie Lippincott

The most beautiful garden in the Valley is at my house. She is not without her quirks and eccentricities, like the Valley herself, which runs east/west, (not usual for a valley). My garden is right/farther right ... non-standard for a garden. And a labor of love, money and insufficient intelligence striving toward something beautiful.

The one-eyed tea house against the back fence, portrayed in the accompanying drawing, is painted purple in real life.

The circle that constitutes its “eye” is a bronze gong from a Buddhist temple in Thailand. A Mother’s Day gift from my four children many years ago, it is exotic and makes the most beautiful sound. The tea house will go from purple to a reddish-orange color called “bittersweet” – but not till after October when our few days of 114 degrees are behind us. (It would be too hot a color before that.)

The word “garden” comes from the word for enclosure, thus a garden is not about nature. THE seminal literary and religious work in western civilization begins in a garden (Genesis). God has dominion in the garden, nature belongs outside the garden — uncultivated and wild — the province of the Sierra Club, etc.

A valley is an enclosure of a kind, as well. It is land encircled by mountains, protecting it from whatever is beyond and committing it to whatever is within. Be careful about what you leave within.

My late father, John F. Lippincott, had a theory of design and decoration: “Remove one ugly thing.” There were the 200 some odd artificial gnomes and mushrooms and rabbits to start — so many that I rented a cozy dumpster just for them. And then the first flowers that bloomed were black, and smelled awful — who makes this stuff up? Into the dumpster with them as well…

Ken Zeiger put up a clothesline for 32

me, between and around the oak and the Tree-Whose-Name-and-Species-IKnow-Not, to the left of the one-eyed tea house.

Peggy LaCerra, the scientist and author of “The Origin of Minds,” and her beau, Wyn Matthews, the master potter, came for a dinner of poached chicken in broth with baby potatoes and spinach with green grapes for dessert. I urged Peggy to go outside to see the clothesline — to see how beautiful it is. She came back in the house and said to me, “Dear, it’s a rope.” Wyn said, “It’s a cat’s cradle.”

On the other side of my back fence, above the tea house, is a two- or threestory apartment building. I’ve never counted. I think they likely have a nice view of the garden and I’ve always wished that they would add to the romance of their being right behind me by hanging laundry from their windows, but they never have. It’s not Italy or Brooklyn, it’s Ojai.

I finally figured out that if I want to see laundry hanging on a line, I could do it myself.

Miss Garden had visitors yesterday.

The first was Tom Susanka of Thomas Aquinas College in Upper Upper Ojai.

He and I met many decades ago when he was Director of Admissions and I had applied to the school. He now has the duty of accepting gifts and bequests from grateful friends and alumni of the College. Tom and I have known each other nearly 40 years. He is the Jimmy Stewart of my life. He brought with him a very nice bottle of Korbel and we were sipping and eating guacamole OM — July 2018

made of avocado, sour cream and salsa and chattering and the doorbell rang and while Tom and I looked at each other bug-eyed and wondering, in came Peter Bellwood. The Peter Bellwood, of “Highlander” and Ojai Quarterly fame.

The conversation careened off in another direction and after Tom left, Peter and I sat on the back porch, often in silence — as good friends sometimes do — and enjoyed the ending of the day and the darkening of the garden.

The garden is lovely at night. The neighborhood is dark so the stars are bright and the trees talk to each other when it’s very dark. They speak in esters and ethers, thinking no one will overhear them, but I am listening and so are the raccoons when they come to visit.

We lost a blood orange last year and so we are still in mourning. One blood orange is left and two lemons and two limes – that’s all the citrus. The citrus feel the loss especially. (The blood orange made an excellent libation – one ounce of Cointreau, one ounce of good tequila — Patron is nice, a tall glass of crushed ice topped off with the juice of blood oranges.) The stone fruit trees — apricots, nectarine and plum, were not close to the blood orange so don’t feel the loss. And the oak didn’t notice it at all.

So now maybe I will go do some laundry for the clothesline, if I can remember how a washing machine works. And next time I will perhaps tell you about the three Harpies and their nest at the top of the live oak.

OM — July 2018

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AGAVE MARIA Fresh, wholesome Mexican food & drink 106 South Montgomery Street (805) 646-6353 agavemarias.com

JIM & ROB’S FRESH GRILL Mexican-American & regional favorites 214 West Ojai Avenue #100 (805) 640-1301 jimandrobsojai.com

AJ EXPRESS CHINESE EXPRESS Gourmet Chinese food to eat in or to go 11566 North Ventura Avenue (805) 646-1177 ajchinesecuisine.com

JJ’S SPORTS ZONE The go-to place for food & sports 820 North Ventura Avenue (805) 649-4655 jjssportszone.com

AZU Spanish & Mediterranean comfort food 457 East Ojai Avenue (805) 640-7987, azuojai.com

HOME KITCHEN OF OJAI Breakfast and lunch in a warm space 1103 Maricopa Highway (805) 646-5346 HomeKitchenofOjai.com

BOCCALI’S Pizza & Pasta, from our farm to our tables 3277 Ojai-Santa Paula Road (805) 646-6116 boccalis.com

KNEAD BAKING COMPANY An artisanal family bakery 469 East Ojai Avenue (310) 770-3282 kneadbakingcompany.com

BONNIE LU’S COUNTRY CAFE Traditional American breakfast & brunch 328 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-0207

MANDALA Pan-Asian Cuisine 11400 North Ventura Road (805) 613-3048

CAFE EMPORIUM Locals’ favorite breakfast and lunch 108 South Montgomery Street (805) 646-2723 ojaicafeemporium.com

MARCHE GOURMET An European deli in Ojai 133 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-1133 marchegourmetojai.com

CASA DEL LAGO Ojai’s original Mexican restaurant 715 E Ojai Avenue (805) 640-1577

THE NEST 401 East Ojai Avenue Coming soon — follow Instagram @thenestojai for updates

THE DEER LODGE An Ojai legend since 1932 2261 Maricopa Highway (805) 646-4256 deerlodgeojai.com

NO SO VITA Ojai’s social cafe 205 North Signal Street (805) 646-1540 nosovita.com

FARMER & THE COOK The best of organic Ojai 339 West El Roblar Drive (805) 640-9608 farmerandcook.com

OAK GRILL @ THE INN Al fresco dining under vine-covered pergola 905 Country Club Road (805) 646-1111 ojairesort.com

FOOD HARMONICS Nutritional Love 254 East Ojai Avenue (Arcade) (805) 798-9253

OJAI COFFEE ROASTING COMPANY Salads, sandwiches & superb service 337 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-4478

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OM — July 2018

OJAI HARVEST RESTAURANT & BAR Farm-to-table organic fare 307 East Ojai Avenue (805) 633,9232 OJAI PIZZA COMPANY 331 Ojai Ave. (Downtown Ojai) 545-7878 TheOnlyGoodPizza.com OSTERIA MONTE GRAPPA Local fare, Northern Italian cuisine 242 East Ojai Avenue / (805) 640-6767 omgojai.com PAPA LENNON’S Family owned, original & Italian cuisine 515 West El Roblar Drive (805) 640-7388 papalennons.com

traditional

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 SOULE PARK GOLF COURSE BAR & GRILL Patio & indoor dining with Ojai’s most tranquil views 1033 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-5685 soulepark.com

Visit our

Honey Tasting Room 206 East Ojai Avenue in the Arcade, downtown Ojai

1103 Maricopa Hwy, Ojai

(located in the Vons Shopping center)

heavenlyhoneycompany.com | 805-633-9103

Breakfast & Lunch Open daily 7:00am - 2:30pm (805) 646-5346

TOM WEBER

36 years in the Ojai Valley

OjaiTom.com

805-320-2004 info@OjaiTom.com

Broker: CA BRE#00805061

Excellent In Town Location. Backs to Ojai Trail.

Approx 1600 square feet 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with detached 2 car garage and a separate workshop on 1/4 acre lot. $749,000

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BLUE IGUANA INN & SUITES Spanish-style inn offering rooms, suites & cottages with Southwest décor. Easy access to the Ojai Valley Trail.

11794 Ventura Ave | (805) 646-5277 blueiguanainn.com CAPRI MOTEL Hip, quirky option with retro rooms and cool pool scene.

Free Wi-Fi and breakfast 1180 East Ojai Ave | (805) 646-4305 hotelojai.com CARAVAN OUTPOST A beautifully curated garden of Airstreams, located in the heart of Ojai. Free wi-fi, nightly entertainment, dog friendly, complimentary bicycles, camp store.

Instagram: @caravanoutpost Web: caravanoutpost.com 317 Bryant Street I (805) 836-4891.

CHANTICO INN & SUITES Relaxed, cozy rooms in a Mission-style hotel offering free breakfast & WiFi, plus an outdoor pool.

406 West Ojai Ave | (805) 646-8100 chanticoinnsuites.com

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EMERALD IGUANA INN Upscale inn with lush gardens, pool, hot tub, spa services, breakfast, & rooms with local artwork.

108 Pauline St | (805) 646-5277 emeraldiguana.com HUMMINGBIRD INN Lodge-like inn offering modern, casual rooms, plus free wi-fi breakfast, & an outdoor pool. Across the street from Soule Park Golf Course.

1208 East Ojai Ave | (805) 646-4365 hummingbirdinnojai.com LAVENDER INN Quaint bed-and-breakfast in an 1874 building featuring country-style rooms, plus a spa, yoga & cooking classes. In the heart of downtown Ojai.

210 East Matilja St | (805) 646-6635 lavenderinn.com

OJAI VALLEY INN & SPA Upscale Spanish-style hacienda with contemporary rooms & a spa, pool, golf & several restaurants. One of California’s premier destinations.

905 Country Club Road | (855) 6978780 ojairesort.com OAKRIDGE INN Functional budget hotel offering an outdoor pool, plus complimentary continental breakfast & WiFi. 780 North Ventura Ave | (805) 6494018 oakridgeinn.com OJAI RETREAT Serene, hilltop bed-and-breakfast offering traditional rooms, some with terraces, plus a buffet breakfast & yoga.

160 Besant Road | (805) 646-2536 ojairetreat.com

THE OAKS AT OJAI Serene weight-loss retreat offering 3 meals daily, plus a wellness spa & free fitness classes.

122 East Ojai Ave | (805) 646-5573 oaksspa.com

PEPPER TREE RETREAT & EDUCATION CENTER An oasis for the mind in a peaceful setting where individuals, couples and small groups can relax and enjoy the beauty of the valley.

1130 McAndrew Road (877) 355-5986 peppertreeretreat.com

OJAI RANCHO INN Borders Ojai Valley Trail, easy stroll to downtown. Hip, rustic-style inn offering country-chic rooms, plus free Wi-fi, a pool & a sauna.

615 West Ojai Ave | (805) 646-1434 ojairanchoinn.com

SU NIDO INN Artfully designed, Mission-style inn with traditional rooms, with stunning courtyard, an easy walk to downtown. Free Wi-Fi 301 North Montgomery Street (805) 646-7080 sunidoinn.com

OM — July 2018

Local Go-Getter

Whitman Architectural Design For more than 40 years, Bank of the Sierra has been guided by a promise: to help make every community we’re part of better. Supporting your success isn’t just what we do. It’s why we’re here.

Proudly serving Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties, with additional locations throughout central California.

www.whitman-architect.com Providing the highest quality custom residential & commercial Architectural Design and Construction Services.

1.888.454.BANK | BankoftheSierra.com

805-646-8485

© Bank of the Sierra. All rights reserved.

“We Shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.”

Winston Churchill

OM — July 2018

37

AN IDEAL OJAI DAY My ideal Ojai day begins with a cup of ristretto and a skim of today’s news because even on an ideal day, I need to stay informed! Next, I’ll head out for a loop around the Taormina neighborhood with my niece-pup, Callie, as she leaps after bunnies before they disappear into the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy fields.

The most important meal of my day is served up using whatever ingredients I sourced from the Ojai Farmer’s Market the week prior.

My favorite concoction? Homemade rolled oat cereal with Lark Ellen’s Berrylicious granola bites topped with Harry’s succulent blueberries.

If I have some highly-coveted spare time on my hands, I’ll pop into Revel instead for a fruit-filled açai bowl and relish in a moment alone to listen to my podcast-du-jour.

In the summer months, the mornings will find me either at a 4th of July subcommittee meeting discussing ideas for the Ojai Board of Realtors float or brainstorming how to improve Coldwell Banker’s annual Homes for Dogs Project, which we launched locally last year with the help of the Ojai Humane Society. I’ve found that the most rewarding experience is giving back to

Lauren Van Keulen, Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe

Lauren Van Keulen, right, with mother Anne Williamson the community that helped shape me into the person I am today, and placing our fur-friends with their forever homes has become my passion project for paying it forward.

For lunch you can find me at Papa Lennon’s outdoor patio, enjoying their blackened chicken Caesar wrap and an refreshing pint of Allagash white (if meetings are done for the day!). I’ll

peek my head into Book Ends afterwards to peruse any new titles that have been lovingly hand-selected by the literary aficionado’s’ who work here.

One more pit stop before leaving Meiners Oaks – a quick aside into the Farmer & the Cook to pick up any last minute ingredients for dinner.

As the day winds down, I’m back in my kitchen prepping a new sauce or dressing to go with my late night fare. Tonight’s recipe is by local chef Robin Goldstein ... a spicy tomato jam that I will incorporate into a cheese plate. This will pair perfectly with the bottle of Carignane from Old Creek Ranch Winery I rescued after a Saturday spent pouring wine at their newly re-opened tasting bar.

I begin to unwind with some meditation, envisioning the pinks hues as they splash across the Topa Topa Mountains. Then, a night cap of Yogi Detox tea followed by a few pages of “Anna Karenina.”

Soon, I’m drifting off while mentally organizing the day ahead, knowing that whatever it holds I am lucky to be living it in this beautiful valley we call home.

SOLD IN OJAI

We’ve Got it All!

Homes Sold Last Month

Marsha Kaye

A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RECENT HOME SALES

PROOF

Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS# 358407

Business/Cell: (805) 640-0654 Fax: (877) 295-8577

marsha.kaye@homebridge.com homebridge.com/marshakaye

229 Apricot Street, Oak View, 2 bed, 1 bath, 952 Sq. Ft. Listed $439,900. Sold $427,500

33 Monterey Drive, Oak View, 3 bed, 2 bath, 1,596 Sq. Ft. Listed $739,000. Sold $744,000

212 North Carrillo Road #G, 2 bed, 1.50 bath, 1,119 Sq. Ft. Listed $435,000. Sold $428,000

420 Andrew Drive, 4 bed, 2.50 bath, 2,667 Sq. Ft. Listed $995,000. Sold $980,000

136 South Arnaz Street, 1 bed, 1 bath, 420 Sq. Ft. Listed $549,000.

Sold $515,000

812 Drown Avenue, 3 bed, 2 bath, 3,507 Sq. Ft. Listed $999,000.

Sold $1,025,000

380 Monte Via, Oak View, 3 bed, 1.50 bath, 1,098 Sq. Ft. Listed $540,000. Sold $540,000

127 Fairway Lane, 3 bed, 2.5 bath, 3,042 Sq. Ft. Listed $1,139,000.

Sold $1,065,000

566 Raymond Street, Oak View, 3 bed, 2 bath, 1125 Sq. Ft. Listed $575,000. Sold $560,000

1015 El Roblar Drive, 5 bed, 3 bath, 2,661 Sq. Ft. Listed $1,239,000. Sold 1,155,000

149 North Padre Juan Avenue, 2 bed, 1.75 bath, 759 Sq. Ft. Listed $599,000. Sold $565,000

12196 Linda Flora Drive, 4 bed, 2.5 bath, 2,816 Sq. Ft. Listed $1,495,000. Sold $1,365,000

245 South Pueblo Avenue, 2 bed, 1 bath, 1,187 Sq. Ft. Listed 625,000.

Sold $615,000

4725 Grand Avenue, 2 bed, 2.50 bath, 1,848 Sq. Ft. Listed $1,350,000. Sold $1,400,000

1918 Country Place, 3 bed, 2 bath, 1,578 Sq. Ft. Listed $684,000. Sold $651,000

1152 Rancho Drive, 2 bed, 2.50 bath, 2,087 Sq. Ft. Listed $2,100,000. Sold $1,600,000

705 Alomar Street, 3 bed, 2.50 bath, 1,664 Sq. Ft. Listed $699,000. Sold $660,000

574 Los Alamos Drive, 5 bed, 4 bath, 3784 Sq. Ft. Listed $2,295,000 Sold $1,850,000

347 North Poli Street, 2 bed, 2 bath, 1,327 Sq. Ft. Listed $679,000.

Sold $665,000

1420 Daly Road, 4 bed, 4 bath, 4,240 Sq. Ft. Listed $3,895,000.

Sold $2,850,000

1317 Meadowbrook Road, 4 bed, 2 bath, 1,481 Sq. Ft. Listed $719,000.

Sold $670,000

86 Willey Street, 3 bed, 2 bath, 1,257 Sq. Ft. Listed $624,900. Sold $586,000

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Contact me today for more information on any of our loan programs or to get started on a pre-qualification.

Marsha Kaye

Your Ojai Home Loan Specialist.

Home town solutions for your lending needs.

HomeBridge Financial Services, Inc.; Corporate NMLS ID #6521 (www. nmlsconsumeraccess.org); 307 East Matilija Street, Suite G, Ojai, CA 93023, 800-464-2484. Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Rev 11.9.17 (1117-1295c)

714 Mercer Avenue, 3 bed, 2 bath, 1510 Sq. Ft. Listed $699,000. Sold $700,000 Information provided by Ojai MLS OM — July 2018

39

WHO’S WHO

40

IN OJAI REAL ESTATE?

Stephen Adelman Broker Associate “Your Family Man Realtor” Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe realestateojai@ gmail.com ojailuxuryrealestate.com 805-640-5563

Patricia Ahrens Remax Gold Coast www.pattyahrens.Remax. net Yourbestrealtor 805@outlookcom 805-407-8585

Tyler Brousseau Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe 805-760-2213 ojaiforsale.com

Kristen Currier Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe 805-798-3757 thehoffgroup. com

Ross Falvo Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe “The Ojai Real Estate Guy” RossFalvo.com

805-207-5094

Dennis Guernsey Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe OjaiColdwellBanker.com 805-798-1998

Logan Hall Logan Hall Photography 805-798-0337 loganhallphotos. com

Amy Hall Ojai Valley Real Estate Keller Williams AmyHallSellsHomes @gmail.com AmyHallSellsHomes .kw.com Making Your Dream A Reality 805 444 7874

​ orina K Cardinali Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe KorinaCardinali805 @gmail.com 805-794-7963

Vivienne Moody Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe 805-798-1099 vmoody10@ sbcglobal.net OjaiLifestyle.net

Erik Wilde Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe Wilde-Wilde.com

805-830-3254

Larry Wilde Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe Wilde-Wilde. com 805-640-5734

Marsha Kaye Home Mortgage Consultant Phone: 805640-0654 Cell: 949-2339988 marsha.kaye@ prospectmtg. com

Kirk Ellison Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe KirkEllison@ me.com 805-340-5905

Donna Sallen Remax Gold Coast Realtors Donna4Remax@aol.com DonnaSallen. com 805-798-0516

Kelly Wiggins Residential Real Estate Sales CalBRE#: 01990295 Joe Kapp Real Estate Mobile: 805-340-5771 Fax: (805) 798-9051 Email: kelly@ListingsByKelly.com Web: http://www.

AskKel.com

Anne Williamson Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe Anneshomesinojai.com 805-320-3314

Patty Waltcher Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe Call me for your Real Estate needs.

805-340-3774

OM — July 2018

Deckert / DePaola Keller Williams Realty Cheryl Deckert, Broker Associate Ray Deckert, Broker Associate Maria DePaola, Realtor Associate Team@DeckertDePaola.com 805-272-5221

SUCCULENTS IN THE GARDEN

Nora Davis Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe OjaiValleyEstates. com 805-207-6177

Joe Davis Full service property management, residential • Commercial • Industrial JoeTheRentalGuy.com.

805-574-9774

Dale Hanson Ojai Valley Real Estate 211 E. Matilija Street, Ste. J, 206 E. Ojai Ave. 805-646-7229 dale@ovhl.com

Kathy Hoff Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe (805) 290-6907 thehoffgroup. com

Teresa Rooney Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe teresarooneyhomes@ sbcglobal.net 805-340-8928

Don & Cheree Edwards RE/MAX Gold Coast Ojai’s Top Selling Team LivinginOjai.com 805.340.3192 805.350.7575

Peter D’Aprix Drone, Video & Still Real Estate Photos 805.798.5063 peterdaprix photography. com

Hildegard Tallent CalBRE# 02047013 Keller Williams Realty 109 N. Blanche St. #100 Ojai, CA 93023 Tel: 805-798-1872 email: hildegard. tallent@kw.com

Dawn E. Shook - Executive Officer, Ojai Valley Board of REALTORS Over the weekend, I was planting some small dwarf evergreens in my garden, a few bulbs for flower blooming next year, and a lot of succulents!

Succulents are my favorite (other than orchids) outdoor plants. There are so many colors, sizes, blooming ones, big face ones, tall ones, fat ones, and they are amazing to watch them grow once they are planted in the ground or even in pretty pots.

I just re-purposed one of my bird baths into a succulent garden, with small and large succulents combined of many colors-truly beautiful, and took just a bit of creativity to make it look showy.

A big pottery bowl on top of my mailbox became inadvertently, a large succulent bowl as well. Just a bit of water, sun, and upkeep, and it is eye catching, especially for the mailman! Many of my neighbors and friends are willing to give me a few pinches of their succulents, and it all comes together.

Water-wise and beautiful creations for all to enjoy. Try it, I bet you can create some fun succulent bowls, baskets, or whatever vessels you may have, into some spectacular creations as well. I hope to see your creations about town!

IS YOUR PHOTO MISSING? FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN BE IN “WHO’S WHO” NEXT MONTH CALL 805-207-5094 OM — July 2018

41

FOUNDING FATHERS & MOTHERS While Edward Drummond Libbey is rightfully regarded among Ojai’s chief benefactors — having been behind the building of such Ojai landmarks as the Ojai Valley Inn, St. Thomas Aquinas Church (now the Museum), Post Office Tower and the Arcade, others have been very influential in shaping Ojai’s identity. Here’s a few: Annie Besant. Free-thinker, feminist and noted Theosophist. Though she only spent a few days in Ojai, she brought Krishnamurti to Ojai, and helped buy hundreds of acres of property in Ojai, (now the sites of Besant Hill School and, along with A.P. Warrington, the Krotona Center) which she called “the smiling vale.” She is considered one of the pioneers of introducing Eastern mystical thought to the West, and was an early advocate of India’s independence. and the labor movement.

J Krishnamurti. The spiritual teacher and writer, came to Ojai in 1922, sponsored by the Theosophical Society, though he later broke with that group (“The Leaderless Path.”) He gave talks to many thousands of people each year, in the Star Camps in the oak groves west of Ojai (now the site of Oak Grove School. He once held the Guinness Book of World Records for having spoken to the greatest number of people.

Ave. High (°F) Ave. Low Jan 67 36 Feb 67 38 March 70 41 April 74 43 May 78 48 June 83 51 July 89 56 Aug. 91 55 Sept.

87 53 Oct. 80 47 Nov. 73 40 Dec. 66 35 Average Annual Rainfall:

Precip.

5.04 5.24 3.35 1.22 .47 .12 .04 .005 .2 .98 1.69 2.95 21.3

Record High Year 112° 1955

Population:

7,461

Valley: (est.)

21,300

Record Low Year 16° 1990

Households::

3,176

42

Sherman Day Thacher. After coming West to farm and care for an ailing brother, the Yale-educated Thacher realized that he was going to need another source of income. So he founded The Thacher School in 1887. Now one of the most prestigious preparatory academies in the country, its founding creed was “teach a boy to ride, shoot and tell the truth.” Also, in 1896, his brother William founded “The Ojai,” the country’s oldest amateur tennis tournament. Among Thacher’s more illustrious students were industrialist, aviator and film producer Howard Hughes and three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and novelist Thornton Wilder, who wrote his first play while a Thacher student.

OJAI QUICK FACTS

WEATHER IN OJAI

Elevation:

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.

745 OM — July 2018

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.”

Ross Falvo

The Ojai Real Estate Guy BRE 01504988

TIME TO ACT

With very few homes on the market, if you were to list today there would be less competition.

That means you will more than likely get the best price possible for your home.

Beautiful mountain views, highly sought after family neighborhood. Offered at $590,000.

805.207-5094 | OjaiRe.com OM — July 2018

43

OJAI HIKES

10 PATHS TO DISCOVERY

By Bret Bradigan

1. SHELF ROAD Directions: From Ojai Avenue, head north on Signal Street until it ends. Length: 3.5 miles return trip. Difficulty: Easy. An aptly named abandoned road that runs along a shelf above the north side of the Ojai Valley, Shelf Road winds through orange and avocado groves as well as wild chaparral. Every bend in the trail presents you with stunning views of the east end of the Ojai Valley. It takes about an hour at a brisk pace to walk the length of the trail and back between the trailheads at either North Signal Street and Gridley Road. This hike is perfect for visitors or residents to get “ the lay of the land” in Ojai. It is also one of the most “dog-friendly” walks around.

2. VENTURA RIVER BOTTOM TRAILS Directions: From Highway 150, there’s the Old Baldwin Road trailhead just east of the Ventura River bridge. From South Rice Road, there’s a trailhead north of the intersection with Lomita Road. Also from North Rice, take a right on Meyer Road to the Oso Trailhead. Length: Varies. Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Three trailheads lead you into the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy’s 1,600-acre Ventura River Preserve. This three-mile stretch of the Ventura River offers a spectacular glimpse into old-growth oak canopy, splendid vistas from rocky ridgelines, deep swimming holes, lush fern grottoes, rare wildflowers and miles of trails to choose from. This trail system offers up its wonders especially when on horseback; several trail riding companies offer tours of the preserve property.

Also recommended is the loop from the Rice Road trailhead, across the river, up Wills Creek, across the ridge and down Rice Canyon to end up at the Oso Trailhead. Or vice versa. There are only about 1.5 miles of paved road separating the two trailheads, so no complicated car jockeying is necessary.

3. PRATT TRAIL Directions: From Ojai Avenue, turn north on Signal Street and drive about 1.2 miles until you see the Forest Service sign on the left. The trailhead is a further half-mile. Length: 4.4 miles to

Photo by Caitlin Petersen

Nordhoff Ridge. Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous. The Pratt Trail criss-crosses a seasonal stream through the backyards of private properties before opening onto a natural bowl formed by the slope of Nordhoff Ridge. Follow the signs through about two miles of dry and dusty switchbacks until you reach the ridgeline. From there, it’s another two steep, dusty miles to Nordhoff Peak, 4,426 feet above sea level.

4. GRIDLEY TRAIL Directions: From Ojai Avenue, turn north onto Gridley Road.

Follow it to the gated end, about two miles. Length: Three miles to the Gridley Springs, 6 miles to Nordhoff Peak. Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous. Elevation gain: 1,200 feet to the springs.

This trail, at the north end of Gridley Road just to the left before the gates to Hermitage Ranch, begins with a steep climb along a seasonal creek before opening on to a bench with spectacular views of the entire Ojai Valley. It follows an orchard road through avocado trees before making a northeastward turn along the rocky western flank of the mountainside. You can often hear the sounds of tumbling water far below in the yearround stream. The trail winds along the steep flank of the mountain until it enters the cool, dense side-canyon wherein lies Gridley Springs, with a watering trough for horses and plenty of inviting shade. You can return from here, or continue to the network of trails that reaches its zenith at Nordhoff Peak, 4,426 feet above sea level.

5. HORN CANYON Directions: Take McAndrew Road to Thacher School. Park in the gymkhana lot. Length: 2.2 miles to the Pines. Difficulty: Moderate. Elevation Gain: 600 feet. Legend has it that intrepid horseman Howard Bald lugged saddlebags full of water up this trail to nurture a grove of pine trees that he had planted after the big fire of 1948. The trailhead begins at a parking lot, just past a dip. The trail winds past the famous school’s observatory along the west side of a usually year-round stream. After four shady, rock-hopping crossings, the trail begins a sturdy and steep set

of switchbacks, with increasing vistas expanding on every turn. The pine grove at the top, with 50-foot-tall trees, seems incongruous amid the sage scrub, yet its whispery needles offer a cool welcome. You can see the Channel Islands, as well as the broad, rolling Tuscany-like vistas of Upper Ojai set against the stunning Topa Topa bluffs. This trail continues to the network of trails and fuel breaks that run the ridgeline along the flank of the Ojai Valley.

6. COZY DELL TRAIL Directions: From Ojai, head north on Maricopa Highway (Highway 33) for 3.3 miles. The turnout is on the left, just before and across from Friend’s Ranch packing house.. Cross the street to the trailhead. Length: 1.9 miles to Cozy Dell Creek.

Difficulty: Moderate. The trail begins along a seasonal creek and quickly climbs about 640 feet in elevation along a wellforested and wild-flowered canyon to a ridgeline knoll with spectacular views of the Ojai Valley. On a clear day you can see both Anacapa and Santa Cruz in the Channel Islands. You can either return or continue to Cozy Dell Creek, another half-mile to a wooded picnic spot straight out of Central Casting. There the trail continues past the creek to link up to the Ojai’s system of trails and firebreak roads. It’s perfect for an early morning excursion to justify a hearty breakfast.

7. MIDDLE FORK OF MATILIJA CANYON Directions: Head north on Highway 33 from Ojai for about 4.7 miles to Matilija Canyon Road. Follow the road to the end — about another two miles. Length: Up to 7 miles (14 miles return).

Difficulty: Moderate. Follow the trailhead at the end of Matilija Canyon Road through the gated property to the west side of the creek. The trail, more of a one-track road at this point, heads towards the gates of Blue Heron Ranch, a historic farm with orange and lemon groves, along with an excellent sampling of Ojai’s iconic native rock walls. The trail then clambers through thickening chaparral scrub for another 1.5 miles until you can see tilted slabs of weathered granite and a long, green pool to the right. The trail descends back into the creekside sycamore and willow forest through a series of campsites, swimming holes and geologic marvels. Winding alongside and across Matilija Creek, careful observers can see foot-long native rainbow trout and rare western pond turtles. The shifting and often-concealed trail eventually leads to the Three Falls of the Matilija, where the West Branch of the Matilija enters the canyon at the right through a two-cataract waterfall, and the main North Fork tumbles over a calcite ledge into a deep green pool. (There are four more falls beyond, including the fabled Lost Falls, but travel beyond the falls is recommended only for groups of experienced climbers.)

8. ROSE VALLEY FALLS Directions: Take Highway 33 to the Rose Valley turnout on the right, about 12 miles from Ojai. Follow the road four miles to the turnout for the campground. Length: .5 miles. Difficulty: Easy. The trail begins at the head of the campground. It is an easy stroll along the beautiful shaded stream to reach the first 30-foot cataract. The trail is perfect for families with small children.

Rose Valley Road is also the entry place for several popular backcountry trails, including Sespe River Trail, noted for its trout fishing and swimming holes, and Piedra Blanca, with its striking gorges and beautifully weathered white-rock formations.

9. SISAR CANYON Directions: Take Highway 150 about nine miles from Ojai to upper Ojai. Sisar Canyon Road is just past Summit School, the trailhead at the end of the road, about a further mile. Length: 10.5 miles to the Topa Topa Bluffs. Difficulty: Strenuous.

Elevation gain: Nearly 4,000 feet to the top of the bluffs. Only recommended for experienced, well-trained hikers. The first two miles of Sisar Canyon follow the unusually beautiful stream through an enchanting forest of sycamores, bay laurel and enormous oak trees. Both trout and excellent opportunities to swim abound. After that, the trail begins its ascent of the eastern flank of the Topa Topa bluffs. You can also follow the signs to access White Ledge and Ladybug camps from the trail. For serious hikers only, the grueling climb to the top of the bluffs offers world-class views that stretch 360 degrees for hundreds of miles. On any reasonably clear day, you can see beyond Sulphur Mountain to Anacapa, Santa Rosa and San Miguel islands, even Catalina Island. The intrepid summiteer is also welcomed by a bench of native sandstone on which to perch far from the madding crowds. Plan on starting early in the morning. This hike can take a minimum of seven hours for even the best hikers.

10. SULPHUR MOUNTAIN ROAD Directions: Follow Highway 150 for 9 miles from downtown Ojai. Turnoff for Sulphur Mountain Road is on the right.

Follow the road until it ends, another five miles. Length: 10 miles from gated access to the Girl Scout Camp near Casitas Springs. Difficulty: Easy to moderate. This trail starts at 2,600 feet high at the end of the Sulphur Mountain Road access and follows the winding ridgeline trail (actually, an old road) down to about 400 feet elevation, making this a very gentle, if long, hike of three to four hours. It’s perfect for a sunny spring day, with wide views on both sides of the ridge to Black Mountain’s oak-knolled ranchlands, and the rolling green old ranches that give way to Ventura and Oxnard and the ocean beyond. Look for wildflowers and browsing deer as well as bobcats and the occasional bear.

We know Ojai.

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The Davis Group ojaivalleyestates.com

Nora Davis

BRE License #01046067

805.207.6177

nora@ojaivalleyestates.com

We’re lifelong residents.

Enjoy the Ojai Valley lifestyle minutes from downtown in this five-bedroom, eight-bathroom home with a separate, two-bedroom guest house, ongrid solar field, exceptional outdoor living area with pool, kitchen and bathroom, and a separate horse area. www.1577KenewaStreet.com

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Pride of ownership is seen throughout this beautifully remodeled, single-level Arbolada home. Just some of the features include two gated entries, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, two fireplaces. $1,875,000 www.802ElToroRoad.com

4 BR + 3BA Ranch-Style Home on Five Acres with 2 BR Guest House $1,650,000 www.1175CamilleDrive.com

Remodeled, three-bedroom Oaks West home with wood floors, gas fireplace, low-maintenance landscaping and RV parking. $689,000

Rare opportunity to buy Gateway Plaza! Oak View shopping center with long-term occupants, large parking lot and great location. $1,795,000

Kellye Lynn

BRE License #01962469

805.798.0322

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OM — July 2018