OJAI 05 22 D I S C O V E R M O N T H LY Real Estate & Visitors Guide
FEATURED PRO: ANGELICA SMITH ACTS UP SPRING CLEANING FOR LOCAL CHARITIES ART & THE OUTDOORS: OSA & OVLC TEAM UP
Cover Photo: Patty Waltcher, LIV Sotheby’s Realty, 805-340-3774, pattywaltcher.com
Visitor Information
Events
Activities
Lifestyle
Tips & Tactics. See more at the OJAIHUB.COM
The Ojai Alisal Vineyard The property includes an active vineyard that is the source for all the grapes used in Ojai Alisal’s wines. Initiated in 2009, Ojai Alisal currently has almost 3 acres planted with about 2700 vines. Red varietals are Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Malbec while whites include Viognier and Grenache Blanc. Ojai Alisal produces about 500 cases a year and is known for award-winning wines made from grapes entirely grown on the property. There is plenty of room on the rolling hills to substantially expand the vineyard.
THE OJAI ALISAL ESTATE This private, gated, 20-acre vineyard estate features a luxurious 2br/2½ba Italian farmhouse with amazing 360-degree views. Downstairs is a large great room comprising kitchen, dining, and living spaces. The great room has high ceilings and is centered on a carved 1920’s fireplace. The chef’s kitchen includes Subzero, Wolf and Miele appliances. French doors lead out to a large, covered patio with a fireplace. There are also a separate mudroom/pantry, a cozy office/library and a powder room. Upstairs has a guest suite with a private bath, and an expansive primary bedroom suite with a walk-in closet. The beautifully manicured grounds include California peppers, sycamores and oaks as well as a garden of California-native plants. There is a separate 2-car garage, and the backyard area is enclosed by a stone wall with a basalt column fountain. Gravel paths wind through a family orchard with a wide selection of fruit trees. OjaiAlisalEstate.com
PAT T Y WALTCHER
(805) 340-3774
pattywaltcher.com
Price Upon Request
ESCAPE IN A MOMENT
Escape in a moment and enrich your wellness journey at Spa Ojai. Surrounded by the inspiring Topatopa Mountains, this 31,000-square-foot luxury spa features two pools, a fully-equipped gym, Mind & Body classes, Spa Boutique, Artist Cottage & Apothecary, and Spa Café offering a menu of fresh, healthy indulgences. Explore your creative consciousness, nourish your body, inspire mindful renewal, and challenge your physical endurance amidst an inspired natural setting of oak trees, fresh lavender, and idyllic vistas—all just a short drive away.
866.976.3538 OjaiValleyInn.com
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THE GOLD STANDARD FOR CENTRAL COAST REAL ESTATE Steeped in a rich foundation of over 40 years-experience, Kerry Mormann & Associates is the gold standard for Ranch and Lifestyle properties along the Central Coast of California. Our team encompasses decades of experience in not only real estate, but the highest level of hospitality, community relations, and environmental conservation.
Coming Soon
THE HACIENDA RANCH 3,100AC | GOLETA | $45,000,000 • Historic Hacienda + 16 Other Homes • 15 Wells, 6 Resesrvoirs, Creek Weirs • 25 Underlying Parcels, Land Use Flexibility + Potential Tax Benefits
Just Listed
RANCHO MONTE ALEGRE
RANCHO CANADA LARGA
2,862±AC | CARPINTERIA | $35M • 8 Buildable Lots • Miles of Trails + Many Waterfalls • Ag & Building Envelopes • Lot 17 & Lot 18 Available Separately
6,500AC | VENTURA | $27.65M Rolling Hills, Streams, Pastures Current Used for Cattle Grazing 18 Legal Parcels Possible Conservation Tax Benefits
• • • •
Coming Soon
BIG SKY RANCH
ENDLESS SUMMER RANCH
LOT CASITAS PASS RD
1,100±AC | LOMPOC | $10,000,000
42AC | GAVIOTA/GOLETA | $4.75M • Gorgeous Coastal Ranch • Original Ranch Style Home • Stunning Ocean Views
1.64±AC | CARPINTERIA | $550K • Conveniently Located • Multiple Possibilities • Zoned AG-I-10 • Water Meter Installed
• Extensive Roads and Trails • Potential for Diversified Ag • Elevation Range from River to 1,600ft
Kerry Mormann & Associates DRE #00598625
coastalranch.com
(805) 682-3242 Office info@coastalranch.com
©2022 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy OMsystem — May of2022 5 of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the
TABLE OF CONTENTS MAY 2022
7
Editor’s Note
11
Calendar of Events
12
Featured Pro: Angelica Smith Acts Up
21
Spring Cleaning for Local Nonprofits
21
Ojai Founding Fathers & Mothers
22
Who’s Who in Real Estate
24
Dine Ojai — Restaurant Guide
25
Chef Randy: Roasted Beets & Fennel
27
Sold In Ojai
27
Alternative Loans: Pros & Cons
29
12
25
Ojai’s Top Ten Hikes
Editor & Publisher / Bret Bradigan Uta Ritke / Creative Director David Taylor / Sales Manager Ross Falvo / Distribution Manager Cover: Patty Waltcher, LIV Sotheby’s Realty 805-340-5774 Contact Us: 805.798.0177 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. 6
OJAI 05 22 D I S C O V E R M O N T H LY Real Estate & Visitors Guide
FEATURED PRO: ANGELICA SMITH ACTS UP SPRING CLEANING FOR LOCAL CHARITIES ART & THE OUTDOORS: OSA & OVLC TEAM UP
Cover Photo: Patty Waltcher, LIV Sotheby’s Realty, 805-340-3774, pattywaltcher.com
Visitor Information
Events
Activities
Lifestyle
Tips & Tactics. See more at the OJAIHUB.COM
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21
DISCOVER
OJAI MONTHLY THE BEATO GOES ON ''The past isn't dead. It isn't even past.”— William Faulkner
Bret Bradigan
Ruth Brandon’s book, ‘‘Spellbound,’’ makes it more clear than ever that Beatrice Wood, Ojai’s patron saint of the arts, was a more central figure in the 20th century than she is often given credit. Much is made of her love triangle with Henri-Pierre Roché and Marcel Duchamp, her status as the ‘‘Mama of Dada’’ but not enough of her art in its own right. Thankfully Ruth Brandon acknowledges and redresses that oversight, and in the doing, reminds us that Ojai has long been a setting for great artists to make great art. Brandon charts how Duchamp fell intro obscurity after shaking the artworld to its foundations, and got lost in chess. He never quite made it to Grandmaster status, but the photo of him with the naked Eve Babitz at the chessboard certainly put him squarely back in the spotlight, which only intensified after ‘‘Fountain’’ was named the most acclaimed 20th century artwork by a consensus of 500 British art world professionals. R. Mutt indeed. Roché authored of ‘‘Jules and Jim,’’ often said to be based on the Duchamp-Roché-Wood love triangle, which was made into the classic film by François Truffaut. But the central mystery is what happened to the flamboyant Beatrice (see photo on opposite page) who seemed to vanish in the mists of mysticism. It is one of my favorite Ojai photos is to see her hosting a luncheon with Duchamp, Ferus Gallery’s Walter Hopps and other luminaries in the early 1960s (see Spring 2019 OQ). As Kevin Wallace noted on his Ojai podcast interview (episode 68), we in Ojai always held her in high regard, because she lived among us since coming to Ojai frequently since the 1920s to hear Krishnamurti, and moving her permanently in 1948. Who could not notice this bedazzling creature in saris and accessories? But in her former New York artworld circles, it was if she dropped off the planet. Wallace said it wasn’t until after the publication of her memoir, ‘‘I Shock Myself’’ in her 80s that she finally felt financially secure. And her distinctive lusterware ceramics, with whimsical figures and innovative glazing techniques, still sell for absurdly low prices when you consider her fame and talent. Had I the money to invest, her art would be high on the list. There is no Fountain of Youth. In fact, if often feels like modern culture is a firehose of stressors and age-inducing stimulation. But if there were such a fountain, I imagine it would be very much like Ojai. A place where we can rise above the mundane and reach for something extra, something that will outlive us and inspire generations to come. And the example of Beatrice Wood, who found success in her 80s and lived large every moment of her 105 years, is as inspiring an example as we are likely to find.
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CREATIVE SPACE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
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.
GALLERY
WORKSHOPS
POTTERY PARTIES
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. $775,000
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FREE TOURS
805 272 8760 www.firestickpottery.com Open Daily 10 - 6 Gallery Open to the Public 1804 East Ojai Avenue
THERESE HARTMANN PROVIDING HOME LOANS FOR OVER 25 YEARS!
C2 FINANCIAL CORPORATION IS THE # 1 BROKER IN THE NATION! MORTGAGE EXECUTIVE
Now available at
frontier paint
April 2019
MAGAZINE
“Therese and Pamela could not have been better. Everything was taken care of properly, promptly and with the utmost professionalism. They got me the best rate, they were transparent and incredibly wonderful to work with. I cannot stress this enough they worked incredibly hard and made me feel secure through this whole process as a first time home buyer. They are truly the best team!” — Tim Thatcher
227 Baldwin Rd., Ojai 805-646-0459
www.frontierpaint.biz
(805) 798-2158 | HEARTLOANS@SBCGLOBAL.NET | HEARTLOANS.COM 236 W. OJAI AVE., SUITE 105, OJAI CA 93023 This licensee is performing acts for which a real estate license is required. C2 Financial Corporation is licensed by the California Bureau of Real Estate, Broker # 01821025; NMLS # 135622. Loan approval is not guaranteed and is subject to lender review of information. All loan approvals are conditional and all conditions must be met by borrower. Loan is only approved when lender has issued approval in writing and is subject to the Lender conditions. Specified rates may not be available for all borrowers. Rate subject to change with market conditions. C2 Financial Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Mortgage Broker/Lender. BRE #01048403 NMLS #298981
Whitman Architectural Design
www.whitman-architect.com Providing the highest quality custom residential & commercial Architectural Design and Construction Services.
805-646-8485 “We Shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.”
Winston Churchill
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Saving Fundamentals:
BENEFITS OF SAVING & INVESTING EARLY by DOUG ECKER Retirement Plan Specialist / CRPS® with Integrity Wealth Advisors April 2022
S
tarting your retirement savings early, being consistent year after year, and investing what you save are some of the keys to a successful retirement, due to the power of long-term compounding. It is never too early to start saving for retirement, but don’t be discouraged if you haven’t yet begun! Benefit of saving and investing early As this chart shows, it is also never too late to begin consistently saving and investing for retirement. Creating a Financial Independence Plan can bring clarity when answering that important question, Account growth of $200 invested/saved monthly “Can I achieve my retirement goals?”
Saving
People always ask us, “How much do I need to have saved when I reach retirement?” There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as your individual financial situation is distinct. A unique personal Independence Plan will give you a clear answer.
ACCOUNT GROWTH OF $200 INVESTED/ SAVED MONTHLY
$450,000
E ndi ng po rt fo l i o
Consistent Chloe invests from ages 25 to 65 earning 6.25% ($96,000 total)
$400,000
$420,300 77%
Late Lyla invests from ages 35 to 65 earning 6.25% ($72,000 total)
$350,000
$250,000
66%
Nervous Noah saves from ages 25 to 65 in cash earning 2.0% ($96,000 total)
$200,000
Sav inve som suc the com
$210,700
Quitter Quincy invests from ages 25 to 35 earning 6.25% ($24,000 total)
$300,000
Sa
$209,600 89%
$147,900
$150,000
35% $100,000 $50,000
Investment return Savings
$0 25
30
35
40
45 Age
50
55
60
65
The example above is for illustrative purposes only and not indicative of any investment. Compounding is the increasing value of assets due toinvestment return earned on both principal and prior investment gains.
The above example is for illustrative purposes only and not indicative of any investment. Source: J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Long-Term Capital Market Assumptions. Compounding is the increasing value of assets due to investment return earned on both principal and prior investment gains.
OFFICES IN DOWNTOWN OJAI & VENTURA
(805) 947-0202 iwaplan.com
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Integrity Wealth Advisors, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. This material is solely for informational purposes. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Integrity Wealth Advisors, Inc. and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure.
MAY CALENDAR OF EVENTS galleries
WEEKLY
events
Certified Farmers Market
(Image credit: Ivon Hitchens, Algerian Woman No. 1, 1948, oil on canvas © 2021 Artists Rights Society (ARS) New York / DACS, London)
Ivon Hitchens at canvas and paper
MAY 19 – JULY 17 Ivon Hitchens: “Flowers” Location: canvas and paper, 311 North Montgomery Street Times: Thursday to Sunday, 12 noon to 5 p.m. Contact: canvasandpaper.org Free admission — canvas and paper is a non-profit exhibition space showing paintings and drawings from the 20th century and earlier in thematic and single artist exhibits. MAY 14 Ventura County Creative Artists “New Beginnings” Location: West Hills Gallery, 1545 Cuyama Road Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: Bobbi Balderman at 805-798-2403 The Ventura County Pastels Artists, including the founder, Bert Collins, have been painting with other mediums in addition to soft pastels. To reflect the additional types of artwork the group now creates, they have changed their name to Ventura County Creative Artists — VCCA. MAY 14 OSA & OVLC’S “Art in Nature’s Wonderland Time: 4 to 8 p.m. Location: Ventura River Steelhead Preserve 9458 Baldwin Road Contact: Ovlc.org or ojaistudioartists.org Ojai Studio Artists and Ojai Valley Land Conservancy have partnered for “Art in Nature’s Wonderland,” the groups’ first joint fundraising gala. The event includes dinner,
Paul Yniguez will be among the 80 artists at the 45th annual Art in the Park
live music, dancing and an auction. Tickets are $150 each. MAY 28-29 45th Annual “Art in the Park” Location: Libbey Park Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Ojai Art Center is kicking off its 45th annual Art in the Park celebration Memorial weekend. More than 80 artists will showcase their recent works. Visitors and artists alike can expect big smiles, great music, tasty food, and good times. MAY 29 Empowerment Workshop’s Co-Ed Softball Tournament Location: Sarzotti Park 350 Park Road Time: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Contact: theempowermentworkshop.org The first annual softball tournament will feature a three-game minimum. Team fees are $300 and go to support a great cause, raising strong, confident youth who are worthy of following their dreams, have healthy relationships, and capable of creating the lives they dream of.
Every Sunday Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Contact: 805-698-5555 Location: Matilija Street city parking lot behind the Arcade. Open air market featuring locally grown produce, as well as plants, musicians and handmade items. Ojai Community Farmers Market Every Thursday Time: 3-7 p.m. Location: Chaparral High School Courtyard
their studios to the public in this free event. Perfect for patrons, or just curious lovers of art. 2ND & 4TH SUNDAYS — MAY 8 & 22 Ojai Cars & Coffee Times: 8 to 10 a.m. Location: Westridge Midtown Market 131 West Ojai Avenue Contact: IDriveSoCal.com Ojai Cars And Coffee events take place in a gorgeous setting in the parking lot of the Westridge Midtown Market. Come see beautiful collector and vintage cars and talk with their proud owners.
THURSDAYS “Ojai: Talk of the Town” Podcast New episodes come out Thursday evenings through OjaiHub.com newsletter. Sign up at OjaiHub.com
2ND SATURDAYS — MAY 14 Ojai Studio Artists Open Studios Date: May 14 Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: Varied, check website at ojaistudioartists.org Select groups of OSA members artists open OM — May 2022
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BY ILONA SAARI
ANGELICA IN “PROMISES, PROMISES”
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Medieval Latin (herba) angelica angelic (herb – from the parsley family)… or Late Latin, feminine of angelicus angelic or from Late Greek angelikos, a messenger angel from God.
Angélica (pronounced: An HEL ica) is neither a sprig of parsley, nor is she a Greek angel. She is, however, an accomplished actor, dancer, singer and teacher. Born in Ojai, Angélica followed in the footsteps of her older brothers, Richard and David, and graduated from Nordhoff High School. Her dad, Phil Smith, a motorcycle dealer, emigrated from England to America in 1975, and worked at a Peppermint Patty factory in Pennsylvania before he left to explore America via Greyhound buses. He landed in Carpinteria, worked for Barber Honda in Ventura and
bought a condo in Ojai. In 1981, at a party in Ventura, he met Delia Smith (nee Casillas), an office manager who was being wooed by his best friend, who was attempting to replicate Phil’s British accent. Didn’t work. It was Phil who won her heart. Delia, whose parents are from Guadalajara, Mexico, was born in Los Angeles, but grew up in Norwalk and Oxnard. She graduated from University of California-Santa Barbara, with a degree in Spanish and is now the office manager of Phil’s motorcycle business. Growing up in Ojai, Angélica started her first acting class at the age of 11, and in high school she sang in choir at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church alongside her dad. She attended dance classes at Nordhoff’s dance program with Kim Hoj and from there she trained with OPATA (Ojai Performing Arts Theater Academy) which, sadly, she says, no longer exists. Track was her real commitment in high school and she was dedicated to it, “particularly Ojai Roadrunners track and field which had a profound impact on me” she explains. “All my friends did track and my friend’s dad, Bob Jehle, was our coach. It was where I learned teamwork, camaraderie, goal setting, and the importance
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of getting daily sunshine — something I’m sure we all understand after two years of indoor isolation.” But, when the Young Americans, a group of performing artists, came to Nordhoff for a weekend of song-and-dance workshops and a performance, “I realized that was absolutely where I
taining while teaching during these last few years and I would often combine acting exercises, games, and improv with Spanish. It was also easy to pull up videos or songs that could help with my curriculum.” And, through a musical theater program for which she teaches, the big challenge was to continue teaching music, singing, and theater skills through the computer. But she and her students managed, and her kids even learned how to record themselves and edit their videos together for a final product that they can share with their friends and family.
While pursuing her television career in L.A., she’s worked background on shows such as “The Big Bang Theory” and “How to Get Away with Murder,” as well as acted in commercials, independent and student films. She even got to walk a red carpet as part of a filmmakers team, Clubhouse 122. Their film “Gorilla-Madchen” won Best Film, Best Writing and Best Directing for L.A. at the “48 Hour Film Project,” a competition where filmmakers are given a list of ANGELICA ON THE SET OF “THE LAST ENVELOPE,” AN INDIE FILM BY WRITER AND criteria to write, produce and edit a movie in DIRECTOR JOHN DOWALO just two days. wanted to be.” Back living in Ojai, Angélica was working parttime as a barista at Ojai Coffee Roasting Company After high school, Angélica lived in Europe for two years. when she was “discovered” by director Richard “Every day was like entering a big, beautiful outdoor classCamp. He cast her in the Ojai Art Center Theater’s room where you could eat and laugh your way through all season opener of the theater’s 80th anniversary… lessons,” she remembers. While attending Santa Barbara the Agatha Christie-style mystery, “Night Must City College she performed in Moorpark College commuFall,” which had been the first play ever produced nity theater, then went on to San Francisco State Universiat OACT in 1939. This past April, she was back ty where she earned her B.A. in Spanish (as her mother had “on the boards” in Ojai Performing Arts Theater’s done at UCSB.) Over the years, Angélica has been featured hit production of “Harvey,” where she played the in a variety of musicals such as, “Sweet Charity,” West Side “delightfully comic” role of Nurse Kelly. Story,” “Company,” “Promises, Promises,” and “Pirates of Penzance.” Over the years, Angélica has also been involved in St. Thomas Aquinas Church’s Spring Festival, featuring a rummage sale and games for kids. She’s also run 5Ks and 10Ks for charities and plans on Out in the non-academic world, while pursuing a perrunning her first half-marathon to raise money for former’s career, her biggest obstacle has been financial the community. freedom. To keep herself warm and out of a cold-water attic garret, Angélica has juggled a “million jobs,” includ“I also try to stay active in local politics and vote. ing bartending, waitressing, coffee barista, house cleaner, When we’re all busy with our lives, if we can just office assistant and teacher. A favorite was as a Spanish vote, then at least the machine keeps moving in a teacher for a Montessori School in L.A. and she is one of positive direction. If we don’t vote, then we have those rare teachers who enjoys teaching online, freeing her no right to complain. I urge people not just to vote, from commuting to teaching gigs. “I’m really grateful for but to sincerely educate and ask questions before my acting training because it was imperative to be enter-
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ANGELICA ON THE RED CARPET
making a decision. We love to vote for our ‘team’ and there’s this sense of loyalty people have to the right or the left, but if your loyalty is to making the world a better place, then we must stay objective and think beyond our own personal lives and recognize our decisions affect other people. Everybody deserves the right to a happy, healthy life.”
She continues, “My life goal is to make sure I leave this world better than I found it. My talents, skills, and interests lie in languages, the performing arts, and working with children. I’m still searching for how to combine all three in the best way possible.” A real challenge, but one she will figure out. Angélica may not be a messenger angel of God from Ancient Greece, but her message is indeed angelic.
ANGELICA RUNNING TRACK
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DONNA SALLEN
805.798.0516
DOWNTOWN OPEN FLOOR PLAN
FOR SALE
$1,650,000
ABOUT THE PROPERTY
You will love your downtown Ojai home with an open spacious floor plan, vaulted ceilings and gleaming wood floors. The kitchen has a large island and is open to the dining and great room. The living room is light-filled and has a beautiful rock fireplace. All the bedrooms are generous in size and the bathrooms have been remodeled. You will love the great room looking out into the very private back yard. Bring your finishing touches to the unfinished building in the back and create a dream space for your guests to come stay and/or Art Studio. Don’t miss this one!
PROPERTY DETAIL
3 BEDROOMS
ATTACHED GARAGE 3 BATHROOMS
ww w. d o n n a s a l l e n . co m 16
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donna4remax@aol.com
There's There's no no place place like like home. home. Let Let me me find find yours. yours.
RANCHO MATILIJA GEM
FOR SALE
$3,500,000
ABOUT THE PROPERTY
Welcome Home to this wonderful Ranch style VIEW home. Located behind the gates of Rancho Matilija, this home has some of the most magnificent views. Enter into the home and you enjoy the light-filled living room showcasing the mountains. The great room opens to the kitchen and leads out to the backyard. The views are breathtaking with pink sunsets and early morning sunrises. You won’t want to miss this home. Bring your creative touches and make this charmer your home for life. With the trail right outside your door, you can walk your dogs, take a hike or ride your horses. Horses are welcome on this equestrian property. Private and gated.
PROPERTY DETAIL
4 BEDROOMS
3,042SF
www. donnasa llen.c om
3 BATHROOMS
GATED PROPERTY
donna4remax@aol.com OM — May 2022
17
There's no place like home. Let me find yours.
FOR SALE 4 BEDROOMS
3 BATHROOMS
$4,200,000
GATED PROPERTY
ABOUT THE PROPERTY
Gated and private, this beautiful Mediterranean-style estate is sitting perfectly on 2 acres in Rancho Matilija. Designed by renowned local architect, Marc Whitman, the special attention to detail can’t be overlooked. With a dramatic entry which leads you to the open spacious great room, you can’t help but notice the perfect mix of indoor/outdoor living where light-filled rooms blend with the lush landscaping. Perfect for entertaining with two outdoor kitchens, saltwater pool and spa and a private pool house or art studio. Back inside you will love the gourmet kitchen with commercial grade appliances. Vaulted ceilings, three fireplaces, a media room. There is a gentlemen’s orchard, an oversized three car garage along with lovely mountain views. This home is one of a kind and a must see.
DONNA SALLEN 805.798.0516 do n n a4 re m ax@ a ol .com
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Spring Cleaning For Local Charities By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela
I love spring cleaning. Really, I love any excuse to clean and organize, but I get so busy with work that it is easy for me to fall behind. That makes this annual cleaning ritual a great time to catch up on things like vacuuming refrigerator coils and purging belongings I no longer need. This usually results in a few boxes of things to get rid of, which is not really enough for a garage sale but is a bit too much to set at the curb for folks to go through without upsetting your neighbors. This provides a perfect opportunity to combine spring cleaning and supporting local organizations. The most direct way to turn your spring cleaning into support for local charities is to donate items directly to organizations that need them. For example, the Ojai Raptor Center (OjaiRaptorCenter.com) maintains wish lists on its website that include some common household items, like newspaper, masking tape, scrub brushes, shade cloth, and various medical supplies. The Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC.org) also maintains lists of items they need, including towels, blankets, office supplies, cleaning supplies, puppy pads, litter boxes with covers, flashlights, rubber toys, and un20
opened bags of dry food. Organizations that accept donations of items they need to assist with delivering their services will only want specific items they can use. However, if you have a variety of items that are not on these wish lists, you can still donate the stuff you no longer need to help local causes. For example, you can donate household goods and clothing to the Goodwill in Oak View or you can donate them to the 2nd HELPings thrift store donation center in Ojai (370 Baldwin Road) so that the items can be sold to support the services offered by HELP of Ojai. HELP of Ojai is also set up to receive donations through selling for charity on eBay. If you would like to support this organization (or another of your choice), simply go to eBay, use the charity search function to choose a charity to receive a portion of your earnings, sell and ship the items, and then receive a donation receipt for your tax files. If that sounds like a bit too much work, you might consider consigning your items at The Lennon Closet to support the Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network (B.R.A.I.N.) traumatic brain injury charity instead. Described as a “fine family consignment store” and located at OM — May 2022
250 B East Ojai Avenue, The Lennon Closet accepts consignments on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 10 a.m. on Fridays and donates 1 percent of all sales to this cause. You can also head to Ventura for other thrift shops that accept donations, such as SPARC Second Chance Store, Cats Cradle Thrift Store & Adoption Center, the Battered Women’s Thrift Store, Boys and Girls Club of Ventura Thrift Store & Vintage, ARC Thrift Store, or the Assistance League of Ventura County Thrift Store. If you have a favorite charity you would like to support that is not included above, you can also gather your castoffs, have a garage sale, and donate the proceeds to them. There are so many great organizations and causes to support in Ojai. If you are not sure where to donate your garage sale cash, here are just a few you might look into to see if they align with your values: Ojai Valley Land Conservancy, OjaiCARES, Ojai Music Festival, Secure Beginnings, Turtle Conservancy, The Ojai Foundation, National Disaster Search Dog Foundation, All for Love Animal Rescue, Greyfoot Cat Rescue & Sanctuary, and California Coastal Horse Rescue.
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 Precip. 5.04 5.24 3.35 1.22 .47 .12 .04 .005 .2 .98 1.69 2.95
Average Annual Rainfall:
21.3
Record High 115°
Year 2018
Population: Valley: (est.)
21,300
Record Low 16°
Year 1990
Households::
3,176
Elevation:
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:
Ave. Low 36 38 41 43 48 51 56 55 53 47 40 35
Jan Feb March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.
Ave. High (°F) 67 67 70 74 78 83 89 91 87 80 73 66
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.
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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.” OM — May 2022
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WHO’S WHO
IN OJAI REAL ESTATE?
TO BE LISTED HERE, PLEASE CALL BRET @ 805-798-0177
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Logan Hall Logan Hall Photography 805-798-0337 loganhallphotos. com
Clinton Haugan LIV | Sotheby’s International Realty 727 W. Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 93023 C: (805) 760-2092 O: (805) 646-7288 chaugan@livsothebysrealtyca.com DRE# 02019604
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.
Vivienne Moody LIV Sotheby’s International Realty 805-798-1099 vmoody10@ sbcglobal.net OjaiLifestyle.net
Larry Wilde LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Wilde-Wilde. com 805-640-5734
Kristen Currier LIV Sotheby’s International Realty 805-798-3757 thehoffgroup. com
Donna Sallen Remax Gold Coast Realtors Donna4Remax@aol.com DonnaSallen. com 805-798-0516
Amanda Stanworth LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Phone: 805-2188117 • E-mail: amandastanworth77@gmail. com Web: Rooney-Stanworth.com
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
Ross Falvo Keller Williams Realty “The Ojai Real Estate Guy” RossFalvo.com 805-207-5094
Dennis Guernsey LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
Nora Davis LIV Sotheby’s International Realty OjaiValleyEstates. com 805-207-6177
805-798-1998
OM — May 2022
Dale Hanson Ojai Valley Real Estate 211 E. Matilija Street, Ste. J, 206 E. Ojai Ave. 805-646-7229 dale@ovhl.com
Erik Wilde LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Wilde-Wilde.com 805-830-3254
Don & Cheree Edwards RE/MAX Gold Coast Ojai’s Top Selling Team LivinginOjai.com 805.340.3192 805.350.7575
sew what? whatever you got!
Dawn E. Shook - Executive Officer, Ojai Valley Board of REALTORS
Kirk Ellison LIV Sotheby’s International Realty KirkEllison@ me.com 805-340-5905
As I am sewing a piece of clothing by hand... actually a repair job, I am reflecting on my love of sewing.
Hildegard Tallent CalBRE# 02047013 Keller Williams Realty, 109 N. Blanche Street Tel: 805-7981872 email: hildegard.tallent@ kw.com
My Mom loved sewing and making creative things for our home. It is amazing what a small amount of material can be made into, such as new pillow covers , a stuffed teddy bear for a child, or a new table runner for the dining room table. My mom taught me how to use her 1949 Singer electric sewing machine as a young child. I was hooked on the idea of making my own clothes for school. We had a “mill store” in town where the material was made. I found I could make a new dress in an hour! And could have many more new dresses! I still revel in the creativity of it all ... it was endless hours of enjoyment for me! I inherited the Singer sewing machine in my teens and keep it oiled and tuned, ready to go at a moment’s notice. This may not be for you, however, any creativity in one’s life gives one pleasure. One of my best friends is not interested in sewing, however, her specialty is creating gardens of vegetables and beautiful succulents! Find your creative side, and you will be amazed by the happiness it brings to you. See you about town!
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AGAVE MARIA Fresh, wholesome Mexican food & drink 106 South Montgomery Street (805) 646-6353 agavemarias.com AJ’S EXPRESS CHINESE EXPRESS Gourmet Chinese food to eat in or to go 11566 North Ventura Avenue (805) 646-1177 ajchinesecuisine.com BOCCALI’S Pizza & Pasta, from our farm to our tables 3277 Ojai-Santa Paula Road (805) 646-6116 boccalis.com
hipvegancafe.com (805) 669-6363 HOME KITCHEN OF OJAI Breakfast and lunch in a warm space 1103 Maricopa Highway (805) 646-5346 HomeKitchenofOjai.com MANDALA Pan-Asian Cuisine 11400 North Ventura Road (805) 613-3048 THE NEST 401 East Ojai Avenue (805) 798-9035 thenestojai.com
BONNIE LU’S COUNTRY CAFE Traditional American breakfast & brunch 328 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-0207
L>OVE SOCIAL CAFE 205 North Signal Street (805) 646-1540 nosovita.com
THE DEER LODGE An Ojai legend since 1932 2261 Maricopa Highway (805) 646-4256 deerlodgeojai.com
OAK GRILL @ THE INN Al fresco dining under vine-covered pergola 905 Country Club Road (805) 646-1111 ojairesort.com
FARMER & THE COOK The best of organic Ojai 339 West El Roblar Drive (805) 640-9608 farmerandcook.com YUME JAPANESE BURGER 254 East Ojai Avenue (Arcade) (805) 646-1700 JIM & ROB’S FRESH GRILL Mexican-American & regional favorites 214 West Ojai Avenue #100 (805) 640-1301 jimandrobsojai.com
HIP VEGAN Vegan sandwiches, salads & bowls 201 North Montgomery Street
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OJAI COFFEE ROASTING COMPANY Salads, sandwiches & superb service 337 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-4478 OJAI PIZZA COMPANY 331 Ojai Avenue (Downtown Ojai) 545-7878 TheOnlyGoodPizza.com OJAI PIZZA COMPANY (Oak View) 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
OM — May 2022
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 & cuisine 515 West El Roblar Drive (805) 640-7388 papalennons.com
traditional Italian
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
CHEF RANDY’S LIFE OF SPICE roasted beet salad with fennel
& shaved
asparagus
Beets have a naturally nutty flavor and, when roasted, a wonderfully sweet taste. They are very low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, copper, manganese, folate and fiber. Fennel is crunchy and slightly sweet. Like beets, it is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, copper, manganese, folate, and fiber. In addition, it brings iron and vitamin B3 to the plate (so to speak). Asparagus has a wonderfully different texture when “shaved” raw and added to salads. Like beets and fennel above, it is full of nutrition including vitamin K, selenium, folate, copper, vitamins A, E, B1, B2, B3 and B6. It is also a good source Randy Graham is a noted chef and writer of fiber, zinc, iron and phosphorus. Suffice it to say that this earthy salad packs a large and has been a lacto-ovo vegetarian nutritional wallop. I like to serve it alongside a nice vegetarian entrée for dinner or, when for over 38 years. Chef Randy has served with fresh French bread, as a nice light lunch all by itself. Makes 4 servings. 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.
Quick + Easy
Vegetarian
Spring / Summer
INGREDIENTS One bunch beets One bunch golden beets Two large fennel bulbs Four asparagus stalks — the larger the better 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 10 ounces arugula 4 ounces aged goat cheese (crumbled) 1 cup walnut pieces (roasted) Salt and pepper to taste
room temperature (if not chilled) before plating.
INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Mix red wine vinegar and olive oil together. Set this dressing aside.
Thoroughly wash and then peel the beets. Slice them ¼-inch thick. Place beets in a large baggie with the olive oil and shake to coat beet slices evenly. Pour beets onto two large baking sheets and roast in the oven for 25 minutes. Remove beets from oven and turn each on over. Return to oven and bake for another 20 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside. Make sure they are
ASSEMBLY: When ready to serve, place a handful of arugula on 4 separate chilled salad plates. Place beets, then fennel slices, and lastly asparagus shavings on arugula. Sprinkle goat cheese and toasted walnuts on top and drizzle with dressing. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve while plates are still cold.
OM — May 2022
Trim a half slice from the bottom of each fennel bulb and remove large tough sections of bulb. Thinly slice the remaining fennel and remove the “core” from each slice. Set aside. Trim the “woody” 2-3 inches off the end of each asparagus stalk. Use a potato peeler to shave thin ribbons of asparagus. Set aside.
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Joan Roberts 805-223-1811
roberts4homes@gmail.com 727 W. Ojai Avenue Ojai, California, 93023
CalBRE# 00953244
nternational Realty. All rights reserved. All data, including all measurements and calculations are obtained from various sources and has not and will not be verified by Broker. All information shall be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. LIV Sotheby’s International Realty is indeoperated and supports the principals of the Fair Housing Act.
ACTIVE
130 SOUTH ALVARADO, OJAI 93023, $1,150,000 Large 3+3 home with rare European Old World Charm build in 1935 in the Downtown Village of eclectic Meiners Oaks, OJAI. There is an additional large upstairs finished attic with cathedral ceiling and storage room. This bonus area could be 4th bedroom, offices, kids play room, Family/TV/Game room or guest room. Beautiful house interior with lots of windows, solar tube lighting and original refurbished stone gas & wood fireplace. An expansive Primary Bedroom Suite with exterior door lays on one side of the house with the two bedrooms/one bathroom hallway on the other side plus a separate guest Powder Room. Large open sunny lot has front and back decks, vegetable garden area, beautifully cared-for oak trees, room for family orchard and RV parking. Newer oversized 2- car garage with windows, built-in cabinets and pull down ladder to attic (for an ADU conversion?).
RECENTLY SOLD
207 SOUTH VENTURA STREET
Joan Roberts 805 -223 -1811 CalBRE# 00953244
Roberts4Homes@gmail.com 727 W. Ojai Avenue Ojai, California, 93023
© 2022 LIV Sotheby’s International Realty. All rights reserved. All data, including all measurements and calculations are obtained from various sources and has not and will not be verified by Broker. All information shall be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. LIV Sotheby’s International Realty is inde- pendently owned and operated and supports the principals of the Fair Housing Act. 26 OM — May 2022
illage marketplace
OM — May 2022
27
non-qm loans and why they might be for you Can’t Qualify For a Conventional Loan?
By Therese A. Hartmann
With higher interest rates and home prices in play, we’ve seen some folks struggle to get qualified. One recent client, with a very creative CPA, found herself in a position where her usable income was just not enough to move ahead with a conventional loan. As frustrating as this could have been, I was able to offer her a “next-best” option in the form of a non-QM loan. What’s a non-QM loan? It stands for non-qualified mortgage and refers to loan products that do not meet standard requirements. They feature flexible eligibility requirements for income, credit scores and loan amounts. As an example, with a bank statement loan, a borrower who has strong income but too many write-offs on their tax returns, could simply provide 12 to 24 months of bank statements. As long as there is a steady income showing, a borrower could potentially qualify for a loan under this program. There is a misconception that these loans are bad loans and should be avoided. The truth is, they are similar to
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conventional loans but have their own set of (looser) guidelines. Folks like freelancers, doctors, real estate agents, retirees, borrowers with low credit scores and/or high debt ratios might all benefit from non-QM loans. While the rates are typically higher to match the risk on the part of the lender, applying and qualifying for one requires minimal documentation. Other reasons to consider this route • Borrower prefers not to provide documentation because of sensitive information (tax returns, in particular) • Borrower has an excellent investment opportunity but not sufficient financial strength to get a conventional loan quickly. • Property needs repairs to unlock the value, something a bank might not be able to see with restricted guidelines There is a myriad of reasons someone might not qualify for a conventional loan but fortunately there are other products that might help. If you’re in a situation where you don’t believe you will qualify for a conventional loan, call me and let’s look at all options for you.
OM — May 2022
Therese A. Hartmann has more than 20 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.
OQ | HI K I NG M AP 1
SHELF ROAD 3.5mi EASY | Elev. Gain: 200 ft | Overlooks downtown Ojai.
2 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.
5 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.
8 ROSE VALLEY 1mi EASY | Elev. Gain: 100 ft
Trailhead at Rose Valley Campground. Leads to a spectacular 300-foot, two-tiered fall.
3
4
PRATT TRAIL 8.8mi STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 3,300
GRIDLEY TRAIL 6-12mi MODERATE | 3 mi to Gridley Springs
6
7
COZY DELL 2.2mi MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 740 ft |
MATILIJA CANYON 12mi MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 1,200 ft |
ft | Trailhead off North Signal Street. Goes to Nordhoff Peak. Clear day? See forever.
(Elev. Gain: 1,200 ft) 6 mi to Nordhoff Peak. Trailhead at north end of Gridley Road.
Trailhead 8 miles north of Ojai on Maricopa Highway. Short, intense hike that also connects to trail network.
Middle Fork. Trailhead at end of Matilija Road. First 1.5 miles of trail well-maintained, the rest a scramble.
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10
SISAR CANYON 22mi STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 4,800 ft to
SULPHUR MTN. 22mi MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 2,300 ft |
Topa Topa Bluffs. Trailhead at end of Sisar Road. Trailhead on eastern side of Sulphur Mountain Road. Only for experienced, f it hikers. Views are unsurpassed. OM — May 2022
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We know Ojai.
33+ acre Live Oak Retreat in Wheeler Canyon with amazing views, private pond, five wells, fruit trees, chicken coop, multiple outdoor living areas, jetted soaking tub, stone fireplace, and vaulted, exposed-beam ceilings. $2,495,000 www.8577LiveOakAvenue.com
20 Acres with Mountain and Ocean Views, Gated Entry, Avocados, Citrus, Well, Two Water Storage Tanks, House Pad, and Parking Structure $1,000,000
The Davis Group ojaivalleyestates.com
Nora Davis
BRE License #01046067
805.207.6177
nora@ojaivalleyestates.com
We’re lifelong residents.
Seven-bedroom main house with pool house in resort setting on app. 10 acres with amazing views, pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, three-car garage + twocar garage, artist’s loft, lighted tennis court, family orchard, barns, and more. $6,200,000 www.RocaVistaRanchOjai.com
2020 Remodel on 17 acres with gated entry, lighted tennis court, approximately 15 acres of avocado orchards, multiple outdoor living areas, outdoor kitchen, 3,000-square-foot shop, two fireplaces, multi-room master suite, amazing views, and much more. $4,999,000 www.2871MaricopaHwy.com
Kellye Lynn
BRE License #01962469
805.798.0322
G a b r i e l a Ce s e ñ a T H E N E X T L E V E L O F R E A L E S TAT E S E R V I C E S Re a l t o r ® | L u x u r y S p e c i a l i s t Unwavering commitment to my clients’ satisfaction. D R I V E N B Y PA S S I O N F O R T H E W O R K I D O !
805.236.3814 | gabrielacesena@bhhscal.com LIC# 01983530
Gabrielacesena.bhhscalifornia.com © 2020 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. 32
OM — May 2022
