Ojai Monthly — November 2020

OJAI D I S C O V E R M O N T H LY

11 20

Real Estate & Visitors Guide

FRIENDSHIP IN STORE FOR NEW ARCADE SHOP TOP FIVE PANDEMIC PATIO PROJECTS BEST HIKES IN OJAI Cover Photo: CHRIS MILLER for the Ojai Valley Defense Fund’s “Our Ojai” book. Available at porchgallerystore.com

Visitor Information

Events

Activities

Lifestyle

Tips & Tactics. See more at the OJAIHUB.COM

DOWNTOWN MIXED USE HOME/STUDIO This beautiful downtown building is Contempo Hair Salon, an Ojai business for over 40 years. The property is zoned mixed use, so it can ser ve as a business/retail location as well as a residence. With large windows, high ceilings and an open oor plan, the interior feels light, spacious and elegant.

The ex terior has beautiful landscaping with mature trees, a patio with a pergola, a covered porch and ample parking. It could be used as a turnkey salon with eight spacious stations or re-imagined as something entirely new. It could easily convert to many types of uses: a family residence, a mixed living/office space, an art studio or gallery, a retail space, a restaurant or a day spa.

205SouthSignalStOjai.com

$1,295,000

PAT T Y WALTCHER

25 years matching people and property in the Ojai Valley

TURN-KEY DOWNTOWN REFUGE Recently renovated, this lovely, modernized downtown home is move-in-ready. On a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of downtown, it’s a short stroll to the Arcade and Downtown shopping.

The kitchen and baths have been updated in a timeless style, yet are fresh and modern. Bamboo floors and large windows create a warm, light-filled environment throughout. A private back y ard oasis, with outdoor shower and t wo decks, is accessed via the master bedroom and also from the kitchen. The front garden has a tranquil, private seating area surrounded by evergreen hedging. Includes a legal ADU with separate entrance. This is a rare, turn-key downtown gem.

403FranklinDrOjai.com

PAT T Y WALTCHER

(805) 340-3774

pattywaltcher.com

$925,000

DRE#01768956

YOU DON’T HAVE TO PUT YOUR HOME SELLING PLANS ON HOLD unless you want to. People are actively buying homes from a distance.

We are open for business and here to help you!

LET’S TALK.

805.646.6768

NextHome 307 A East Matilija Street

Jeri Becker 805.340.2846

4

OM — November 2020

Lynn Goodman 805.573.5927

Ojai

Heather Erickson

805.798.3358

CA

Riley Becker

805.646.6768

144 Pasadena Ave., Oxnard - Offered at $1,700,000

Just 500 ft. from Silver Strand Beach, this 5 bed/4 bath, 2,842 sq. ft. home is the epitome of turn-key! Features include a private guest suite and modern kitchen and bathrooms.

New Listing!

570 Burnham Road - Offered at $849,000

Warm and inviting 5 bed/2.75 bath, 2,305 sq. ft. home with updated kitchen, baths, wood flooring, and tile. Master bedroom suite located on the first floor. A real gem!

Sale pending

1008 Creekside Way, #D $539,000

12251 Linda Flora Drive $525,000

3 bed/2 bath, 1,583 sq. ft. condo, gorgeous wood floors & two patios.

2.03 acre Rancho Matilija land parcel with sweeping mountain views.

Sale pending

2.03 acres!

75 E. Short Street - $699,000

4 bed/1.75 bath, 1,390 sf on .92 acres.

SOLD - $750,000

P: 805.272.5218 E: ContactUs@TeamDeckert.com VenturaAndSantaBarbaraHomes.com

DRE# 01761150, 01859199

OM — November 2020

5

TABLE OF CONTENTS

10

NOVEMBER 2020

7

Editor’s Note

10

Calendar of Events

12

Featured Pros: Cercana Store

Owners and their Stories

16

Four Easy Pieces to Pre-Qualify

18

5 Drought-Tolerant Projects

20 Who’s Who in Real Estate 22

Dine Ojai — Restaurant Guide

23

Five Pandemic Patio Projects

29

Top Hikes Into Ojai’s Backcountry

Editor & Publisher/Bret Bradigan Uta Ritke/Creative Director Liz Spiller/Social Media Manager Ross Falvo/Distribution Manager Cover: Chris Miller for the Ojai Valley Defense Fund’s “Our Ojai.”

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.

OJAI D I S C O V E R M O N T H LY

11 20

Real Estate & Visitors Guide

FRIENDSHIP IN STORE FOR NEW ARCADE SHOP

29

TOP FIVE PANDEMIC PATIO PROJECTS BEST HIKES IN OJAI Cover Photo: CHRIS MILLER for the Ojai Valley Defense Fund’s “Our Ojai” book. Available at porchgallerystore.com

Visitor Information

Nov. OM cover.indd 1

6

12

Events

Activities

Lifestyle

Tips & Tactics. See more at the OJAIHUB.COM

10/28/20 3:33 PM

OM — November 2020

23

DISCOVER

OJAI MONTHLY HISTORY HAPPENS IN A HURRY

Bret Bradigan

Imagine that it was only in 2008 that 52 percent of Californians voted in favor of Proposition 8, which banned same-sex marriages. That was the same year that Barack Obama was elected president, who was on record as late as 2012 favoring the definition of marriage as solely between a man and a woman. The tides changed rapidly; in 2015 through the U.S. Supreme Court, Obergefell v. Hodges, the right to marry was applied equally for everyone in America.

When I was a teen, two friends and I were hanging out at a mom-and-pop, rope-tow ski resort in the Alleghany foothills near my hometown. One friend didn’t ski but sat contentedly watching the girls come on and off the slope from the comforts of the rather dilapidated lodge.

As we were coming off the slope, we witnessed a ruckus as a burly man in plaid wrestled with our friend. This off-duty police officer saw that our friend had a pack of Zig-Zag rolling papers sticking out of the back pocket of his jeans and decided that such lawlessness(?) would not stand. Despite our best persuasive yelling at him to let our friend go, he held fast until uniformed officers arrived to haul our friend off to a night in jail. It ended up costing him a several-hundred-dollar fine (a punitive amount in the mid-1970s) and six months’ suspended sentence.

That was for possessing paraphernalia!. Twenty years later, with Proposition 215, Californians made the medical use of cannabis legal, and another 20 years later, in 2016, made recreational use legal with Prop. 16. Another 11 states have legalized recreational use, another 16 states approve medical use of marijuana.

This has proved a boon to Ojai. The arguments of law enforcement that it would contribute to a rise in crime and increased use of harder drugs have, by-and-large, with exceptions of course, been overstated if not disproved. Legalization has provided a shot in the arm to our moribund local tourist-based economy. Marijuana tourism is a real thing, especially for day trippers (pun intended?) from nearby cities and counties. The three dispensary owners have also proven to be responsible citizens and have supported many worthwhile community projects. Chances are good that Measure G, which will enact a three percent tax on marijuana purchases, intended to raise as much as $1.5 million per year for the city, will be enacted January 1st.

That’s all to say that we’ve come a long way in a relatively short period of time. It’s too late for my friend, but it’s better late than never. I can only hope that ski-resort busybody lived to see it.

OM — November 2020

7

THERESE HARTMANN PROVIDING HOME LOANS FOR OVER 25 YEARS!

C2 FINANCIAL CORPORATION IS THE # 1 BROKER IN THE NATION! MORTGAGE EXECUTIVE April 2019

MAGAZINE

“We turned to Therese Hartmann because we know and trust her.

We made a late decision to refinance our mortgage and she shared our sense of urgency in getting the lowest possible rate as quickly as possible. She supported us all the way and made the process seamless and speedy.”

— Stu & Kyle Crowner

(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

Stephen Adelman “Your Family Man Realtor”

805.640.5563 | www.ojailuxuryrealestate.com | DRE# 01786486

8

OM — November 2020

OM — November 2020

9

OCTOBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS

NOVEMBER The Ojai Invitational 2020 — “The Ceramics Show” Dates: November 5 to December 21: Porch Gallery Ojai presents the Ojai Invitational 2020, The Ceramics Show: Featuring Works

by Wyatt Amend, Beth Katz, Travis Kennedy, Elizabeth Orleans, Peter Shire, Diane Silver, Sandra Torres, Lynda Weinman and Beatrice Wood. — a collaboration with EMS ARTS. Location: Porch Gallery, 310 East Matilija Street Contact: porchgalleryojai.com 805-620-7589 The 21st Ojai Film Festival Dates: November 6-15 Location: Virtual at OjaiFilmFestival.com Contact: info@ojaifilmfestival.com This year's festival features 77 international films with seminars, competitions and table reads.

"Insight 2020" Dates: November through December Location: Ojai Valley Museum Contact: info@OjaiValleyMuseum.org Ojai Studio Artists have contributed to this virtual gallery exhibit, a reflection on the tumult of the year. Open with precautions.

REOCCURING EVENTS WEEKLY Monday, Wednesday & Friday “Somatic Stretch for Self Healing”

Instructor: Meredith Sands Keator Time: 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Location: Anywhere you can find a sturdy internet connection.

Contact: somaticsanctuary.com email support@somaticsanctuary Phone: 805-633-9230

MONDAY & THURSDAYS

“Introduction to Somatic Stretch” Instructor: Sultana Parvanka Time: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Contact: somaticsanctuary.com email support@somaticsanctuary Phone: 805-633-9230

WEDNESDAYS “Offerings with Sarah Grace” — Somatic

Satsang, free community gathering and tools for resiliency Instructor: Sarah Grace Time: 7 p.m.

Contact: somaticsanctuary.com email support@somaticsanctuary Phone: 805-633-9230

OM — November 2020

THURSDAYS “Ojai: Talk of the Town” Podcast New episodes come out Thursday evenings wherever you catch your podcasts.

“Awareness Through Movement” Instructor: Mary Jo Healy Time: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Contact: somaticsanctuary.com email support@somaticsanctuary Phone: 805-633-9230

SATURDAYS Agora Foundation’s Saturday Seminars Time: 12 noon to 2 p.m.

Location: agorafoundation.org Learn, discuss and challenge the wisdom of Beckett, Aristophanes, Montaigne, Proust or Seneca with experienced tutors. Cost of a subscription is $25 per month, with scholarships available.

Contact: agorafoundation.org Phone: 805-231-5974

SUNDAYS Certified Farmer’s Market Date: Every Sunday Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Contact: 698-5555 Location: Matilija Street city parking lot behind the Arcade.

11

BY BRET BRADIGAN

CERCANA

STORE Lifelong Friends Bring Inspiring Stories, Products to New Store Ojai’s Arcade is among Southern California’s most familiar landmarks, often teeming with passersby, looking for a special bargain, keepsake of their trip or a gift from a friend. For several weeks through March and into April, though, it was ghostly, absent the throngs of shoppers and errand-doers.

It seemed a propitious time for change — even before the pandemic struck decades’ long fixtures under the familiar arches were retiring: Khaled Al-Awar of Primavera Gallery, Stan and Hallie Katz of Human Arts Gallery and Kathy Francis of Kindred Spirit among them. These were no mere galleries and shops, but local institutions, helping define the Ojai experience each year for hundreds of thousands of visitors and resident alike.

So what comes next? We asked Misty Gerry and Michelle Bosch of Cercana, located in the heart of the Arcade, formerly Kindred Spirit. The clean, serene and well-curated space opened Labor Day weekend and is quickly becoming a mustsee destination for discerning shoppers. Bosch’s daughter Jessica is the store manager, and is often accompanied by Bella and Scout, canine customer service representatives.

Gerry and Bosch grew up in Santa Barbara, and met when they were age 5. They have been fast friends ever since.

12

OM — November 2020

THE CERCANA CREW INCLUDES JESSICA BOSCH, MICHELLE BOSCH, MISTY GERRY, FERNANDO GIRON AND (UPPER LEFT) BELLA AND SCOUT. PHOTOS BY RYAN BOSCH

OM — November 2020

13

Michelle was a vice president and the general manager of Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Misty studied art history at University of California at Berkeley and worked in museums and galleries most of her career; she also owned a boutique and design business in Santa Barbara.

When Gerry announced to Bosch that she was moving to Ojai to be with her sweetheart, Bosch said, “If you’re retiring and moving to Ojai, so am I … Let’s be a part of this community, this is our forever home.”

Ojai Monthly: Where’d the idea for Cercana come from? Is there a business model, an inspiration from another store?

Misty & Michelle: We were musing over how everyone around the world has such unique life experiences and stories and how we are afforded this wonderful glimpse into our varying cultures, through each other’s artistic expression and craft. We want to slow down, open-up to the life stories of others and broaden our relationship to our world.

OM: What was the thinking behind the arrangement/design? It’s very different from the cluttered type of mercantile-type stuff we’ve seen before:

M&M: The space has very high ceilings and these magnificent light wells which fill Cercana with warm, natural light.

We wanted to capitalize on that warmth and airiness and so the design palette of white and gold was dictated by the space. There’s plenty of room to walk around, to read about the makers and to really appreciate the individuality of each piece. If we overcrowded the space with loads of goods, we couldn’t do a very good job of celebrating the singularity of these beautiful forms of expression and function.

Such as Dixza, from a little village outside of Oaxaca, Mexico, who faithfully continue a 400-year family tradition of making stunning, hand-woven rugs from the ground up to Musee, from Mississippi who employs women in recovery, people with disabilities and those who have lived in chronic poverty, to produce incredible products that help women to relax and take care of themselves.

We are also extremely lucky to have so many astonishing local artists right here in our own backyard.

Sarah Johnson is a perfect example.

Born and raised in Ojai, Sarah traveled the world as a designer for Ralph Lauren, Prada and Roberto Cavalli, just to name a few, and returned home to Ojai in 2016 to get back to her roots. Drawing from her fashion world experiences and rancher roots, Sarah creates large scale dreamcatchers for Cercana that are made of vintage lariats, silk chiffon, cut crystals and ostrich feathers — they are truly one-of-a-kind works of art. Everyone is drawn to them.

We are also delighted by the work of local artist Chuck Burright.

Chuck is a craftsman whose brightly painted wood pieces are infused with joy and positive energy just like Chuck himself. His painted hearts are a whimsical reminder of love, which we all could use a little more of.

The works of Colette Cosentino and Tami Snow are also a huge part of the Cercana environment.

OM: How’d you select your artisans/makers? Local connections, their persuasive stories, looking to find something from different retail categories? All, some or none of the above?

M&M: It was both difficult and easy! We had planned to travel directly to the source, meet the makers and learn all about their lives, procure goods in-person and bring them back 14

to Ojai. We had trips to Guatemala, Morocco, Portugal and Spain all planned and then Covid changed everything. We thought about throwing in the towel for a hot second but reminded ourselves that we had just signed a lease and made a commitment to our town.

So, we did most of our buying on-line — which is no easy feat when you’re looking for singular expressions and ethically made products from remote corners of the world. For example, we’d find a beautiful product but couldn’t procure it because it lacked a “giveback mission” or a company’s mission would resonate but the product fell flat. Still, we stuck with it and found makers of beautiful products with amazing stories to tell!

OM — November 2020

Colette is responsible for the ethereal, mural-like painting at our front desk, which truly sets the mood of our shop.

She has done incredible installations for some beautiful estates in Montecito including Lotus Land, and is happy to do commissioned work. Tami’s Snow paintings bring an indescribable whimsy and optimism to the space — any space for that matter. Tami draws inspiration from everyday life and explores themes of hope, generosity, love, family and the simple and quirky joys of life. These are precious values

to us all. Her Pixie Lane in our front window sold before we were even open! Somehow she’s able to capture the essence of what Ojai is all about i.e.; pixies, poppies and the Topa Topas!

OM: Can you describe the first conversations you two had when you first thought of the idea? Did the idea come first, or did you hear from Kathy (Francis) at Kindred Spirit that she was retiring?

M&M: We were on a boat, in the middle of Lake Atitlan, Guatemala.

We had just met this incredible family co-op group, who showed us how they make their gorgeous textiles — from the cotton plant to the finished product. They showed us a flowerless plant that, frankly, just looks like a weed. They explained that this “weed” provides them with a light-blue color for their dyes. Get this, only when they harvest this “weed” under a full moon will the plant give them a deep, indigo-blue. We’re still trying to wrap our minds around that.

We asked them if their 20-person co-op provided enough to sustain their families. The response was, “Our children go to school, we have food on the table, a roof over our head and of course our faith in God … Yes, we have everything we need.

were retiring, after 30+ years, as we were moving-in; Kathy of Kindred Spirits and Hallie and Stan of Human Arts and the three of them passed the torch with great generosity and kindness — including knowing looks of all the work we have ahead of us while they finally get to sleep-in). They gave us all sorts of display pieces, some very cool, vintage Ojai wrapping paper and the heads-up on who’s who. We opened our doors to warm welcomes and have been happily busy ever since. It’s been just wonderful!

OM: What’ve you got in mind for the future? Growth, targeting a new audience, refining your approach, branding, etc.

M&M: Our goal is to be a “go to” shop for the people of Ojai so that everyone comes downtown and we make new friends.

Our weekend clientele consists mostly of Los Angeles folk, which is great for sales but nothing pleases us more than being here for our community. Most locals come in to shop during the week. There are so many creative and talented people here. Everyone has been so kind and helpful. Connecting with our neighbors and community is one of the things that we do best, here in Ojai.

OM: Anything else you can think of?

” Unless you’re a rock, when you come from a firstworld country, a statement like that from people in a third-world country stops you in your tracks and challenges you to reevaluate what’s truly important.

After meeting them we just started talking about how we wanted to bring back their beautiful story and textiles to our new hometown and share with everyone. Just maybe, someone will be as moved as we were.

OM: What’s it been like since the opening on a very warm Labor Day weekend?

M&M: We’re so humbled and touched by the incredibly warm and enthusiastic support of Ojai. Admittedly, we teared up a little when we heard, “You’re just what we needed!” How could you not feel humbled by that?

M&M: Here’s our Mission Statement: “Cercana is a boutique global goods store centered on the backstories of artisans from around the world. Our mission is to inspire and nurture the human spirit through the goods we carry and the stories they tell of their regions and makers.”

Cercana means “closeness” in Spanish. We chose this name because it’s our intent to bring the world in, a little bit closer.

Also, we are a family-run business. Michelle and I have been besties since we were 5 years old, our children are best buddies as well and they all work in the shop. Our sons, Ryan and Matthew, while home from college, work behind the scenes as well as in the shop. The three of them are such polite and intelligent kids and they love being an integral part of Cercana. It’s pretty darn cute, if you ask us!

Our fellow Arcade merchants have been lovely, too — stopping by to welcome us and wish us luck! A few merchants OM — November 2020

15

Donna Sallen

WOW, Sitting on over three acres in the prestigious Persimmon Hill area of downtown Ojai. This five-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom sprawling ranch style home showcases open beamed vaulted ceilings, a stunning great room with a massive brick fireplace, formal dining room, hardwood floors and a large master suite. The magical meandering pathways will lead you to an Artist’s studio where you can once again find your creative soul. Living off the grid is easy with your own private well and solar panels. This slice of Country living offers a prime location all within walking distance to Libbey Park, shops, restaurants, and the Ojai Bike/Hike Trail. Horses welcome.

There’s no place like home ...

Let me find yours.

If you are looking for a quintessential downtown cottage with a guest house ... then look no more. Located in the heart of downtown Ojai, this 1928 home has original hardwood floors, light filled and bright. The living room has a large picture window and a fireplace. There is a one-bedroom guest house that is equally as charming as the main house.

Beautiful, flat useable lot, just under an acre located in the City of Ojai. great views from this lot. Zoned commercial — come build your dream! Desirable location, close to Soule Park Golf Course, so you have plenty of visibility for your business.

Located in the Golden West neighborhood of Ojai downtown, this income-generating home is very warm and welcoming. You will come into the home through the entry which leads you into the living room, showcasing Saltillo tile floors, a wood-burning stove, great light, large windows, and french doors leading out to the back yard. You will enjoy the cozy den with a large rock fireplace.

There is also a separate apartment upstairs, which can be accessed either through the main house or separately outside, with lovely wood floors, a sweet kitchen and nice mountain views. The backyard is a gardener’s delight.

Donna Sallen

805-798-0516

w w w. D o n n a S a l l e n . c o m D o n n a 4 re m a x @ a o l .c o m

Do You Qualify?

Check Your Eligibility With Four Easy Steps

By Therese A. Hartmann

With interest rates in the 2’s, the real estate and mortgage industry are booming right now. I get a lot of phone calls from potential borrowers to see if they qualify so I thought it might be helpful to get you a quick and dirty guide to determine eligibility.

Here we go, in four easy steps: 1. Calculate debt ratios: There is a front-end and back-end debt ratio used by most lenders. Front-end ratio is made up of all mortgage-related expenses (principal, interest, taxes, insurance, HOA, etc.) while back-end ratios consist of any liabilities such as car, student loan, credit card payments. Basically, anything that would be on a credit report is something that will be considered as a liability.

2. Determine usable income: If you’re a W-2 employee, use Box 1 income. If self-employed, you can use the Schedule C amount and add in things like use of home office, mileage, depreciation, etc. Rental income is on your Schedule E and if you have pension or Social Security, that can be added. With child support and alimony, a lender would just need to see that at least a year of 18

payments have been made and at least three more years are owing.

3. Apply percentages: Debt ratios are percentages that are applied against usable income. Standard for the industry is 36 percent for mortgage related debt (front-end ratio) and 45 percent for total debt (back-end ratio). Using those percentages, and as an example, if a borrower earned $7,500 a month and the mortgage expenses were going to be $2,500, their front-end ratio would land at 33 percent. If there was another $875 for other debt, we now have $3,375 for total debt. By dividing $3,375 into $7,500, we end up with 45 percent, which is our back-end ratio and in this instance, borrower would qualify by having 33/45 percent debt-to-income.

4. Credit score, down payment, loan product: Depending on loan product, your credit score will need to be 680, or higher, and down payment 3.5 percent to 20 percent of the purchase price.

Of course, this is a general overview of what it takes to qualify. For a personalized prequalification, you’ll want to contact your local loan officer.

OM — November 2020

Therese A. Hartmann has 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.

Donna Sallen

Your Ojai life awaits in this 4,314 square-foot, 5-bedroom, 5-bath home amid the orange blossom-scented air of the legendary East End. With 2.38 acres, you’ve got plenty of room for gardens and projects. Perfect for entertaining and hosting friends and family in the guesthouse, cottages and writer’s studio, this two-story Victorian will open your sense of possibility and wonder.

Donna Sallen 805-798-0516 w w w. D o n n a S a l l e n . c o m D o n n a 4 re m a x @ a o l . c o m

There’s no place like home ...

Let me find yours.

Five Drought-Tolerant Ground Covers

By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela

Californians are accustomed to ongoing drought conditions and have spent years honing our water conservation efforts.

With so much else going on in the world at the moment, it is easy to let something like watching our water consumption fall to the wayside, particularly knowing that we moved out of a state of drought earlier this year. But La NiĂąa may make this winter drier than usual, which could mean an end to our current reprieve.

This means we cannot let up on our efforts and must continue making water-saving choices whenever possible.

One easy way to conserve water is to choose drought-tolerant ground covers when designing or re-designing your landscaping. So, if installing or replacing a ground cover is on your pandemic project list, here are five low-water options to consider.

1. Gravel: In the realm of drought-friendly ground covers, it does not get much better than a ground cover that requires no water at all. Gravel comes

20

in a variety of sizes and colors and is a good choice for driveways, walkways, areas around fire features, and other outdoor living areas. Using gravel as a ground cover also limits weed growth and can help control erosion and runoff.

2. Mulch, Bark, or Wood Chips: This type of ground cover requires no water, is more affordable than many options, and is available in a variety of sizes, types, and colors. Like gravel, these can help limit weed growth, but they will eventually break down or fade, so you can expect to replenish these ground covers more often.

3. Lantana: One of the great things about lantana is that it is very easy to find. This flowering, evergreen perennial spreads easily, requires little water once established (I hardly ever water mine), and comes in some beautiful colors, including purple, pink, white, blue, red, yellow, and orange. When purchasing lantana, make sure you choose a ground cover cultivar, since it also comes in

OM — November 2020

shrub cultivars that will not work well as a ground cover.

4. Creeping Rosemary: This evergreen perennial herb cascades quite nicely, so this is a good choice for raised borders or allowing to grow over walls. As a ground cover, creeping rosemary spreads quickly and is drought tolerant once established.

It blooms with clusters of blue blossoms, attracts bees to your garden, fills the air with its aroma, and can even be harvested for culinary purposes.

5. Mexican Fleabane: Mexican fleabane is a fast-growing, flowering perennial native to Mexico and Central America.

Often chosen for planting in rock gardens or in spots where it can thrive in the crevices between paving stones, this hardy ground cover loves full sun and will happily self-seed to promote spread. This one requires a bit more maintenance and water than lantana or creeping rosemary, but if you love the idea of a carpet of daisy-like flowers, you might not mind.

WHO’S WHO

IN OJAI REAL ESTATE?

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

22

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

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

805-574-9774

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

Anne Williamson Keller Williams Realty Anneshomesinojai.com 805-320-3314

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

Erik Wilde LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Wilde-Wilde.com 805-830-3254

Patty Waltcher LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Call me for your Real Estate needs.

805-340-3774

Marsha Kaye Home Mortgage Consultant Phone: 805640-0654 Cell: 805-7469055 marsha.kaye@ homebridge. com

Stephen Adelman Broker Associate “Your Family Man Realtor” LIV Sotheby’s realestateojai@ gmail.com ojailuxuryrealestate.com 805-640-5563

Kristen Currier LIV Sotheby’s International Realty 805-798-3757 thehoffgroup. com

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 — November 2020

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

Kirk Ellison LIV Sotheby’s International Realty KirkEllison@ me.com 805-340-5905

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

Kathy Hoff LIV Sotheby’s International Realty (805) 290-6907 thehoffgroup. com

Hildegard Tallent CalBRE# 02047013 Keller Williams Realty, 109 N. Blanche Street Tel: 805-7981872 email: hildegard.tallent@ kw.com

Therese A. Hartmann is a local loan consultant affiliated with C2 Financial Corporation, and is a Licensed Broker, California BRE #01048403. NMLS # 298291. For a free consultation, call Therese today at (805) 798-2158.

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

OM — November 2020

23

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

OJAI PIZZA COMPANY 331 Ojai Ave. (Downtown Ojai) 545-7878 TheOnlyGoodPizza.com OJAI ROTIE Rotisserie, sourdough, winebox 469 East Ojai Avenue (805) 798-9227 ojairotie.com

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

HIP VEGAN Vegan sandwiches, salads & bowls 201 North Montgomery Street hipvegancafe.com (805) 669-6363

PAPA LENNON’S Family owned, original & Italian cuisine 515 West El Roblar Drive (805) 640-7388 papalennons.com

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

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

RAINBOW BRIDGE A community gathering place 211 East Matilija Street (805) 646-6623 rainbowbridgeojai.com

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

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

THE RANCH HOUSE An Ojai culinary destination for more than 60 years 102 Besant Road (805) 646-2360 theranchhouse.com

CAFE EMPORIUM Locals’ favorite breakfast and lunch 108 South Montgomery Street (805) 646-2723 ojaicafeemporium.com CASA DEL LAGO Ojai’s original Mexican restaurant 715 E Ojai Avenue (805) 640-1577 THE DEER LODGE An Ojai legend since 1932 2261 Maricopa Highway (805) 646-4256 deerlodgeojai.com

MANDALA Pan-Asian Cuisine 11400 North Ventura Road (805) 613-3048 THE NEST 401 East Ojai Avenue (805) 798-9035 thenestojai.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

24

OM — November 2020

traditional

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 Check websites for specific information, due to the pandemic, hours, offerings and on-site dining options may change frequently.

In the midst of a popular Ojai family neighborhood sits a beau�ful, oasis-like custom home with mountain views and close to bike trails. The home has been renovated with ar�s�c and architectural flair. 2,559 sq. �., 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms.For more details go toOjaiRe.com

Rosario Falvo 805-207-5094 ROSARIOFALVO@KW.COM

OjaiRe.com DRE # 01504988

Design and Supply for Your Living Spaces

CREATIVE SPACE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

GALLERY

WORKSHOPS

POTTERY PARTIES

FREE TOURS

Owner / Potter : Robin Nahin 562 433 6600 www.firestickpottery.com Open Daily 10 - 6

Closed Tuesday

1804 East Ojai Avenue

26

OM — November 2020

Now available at

frontier paint

227 Baldwin Rd., Ojai 805-646-0459

www.frontierpaint.biz

Whitman Architectural Design

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.

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.”

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

Winston Churchill

OM — November 2020

27

Take 10% off your order when you mention this ad.

Use Code: OM10

Convenience. Comfort. Compassion.

Whether you're seeking relaxation or relief, shopping for cannabis should not be overwhelming! That's why we provide you a thoughtfully curated selection of California’s best products in a warm, inviting and highly spirited setting. Plus, with our extremely experienced and helpful staff to guide you, you'll confidently find the therapeutics that are best suited for you.

SESPE.ORG

855.722.9333

In-store | Delivery | Express Pick up Mon - Sat. 10am - 7pm | Sun. 10 am - 5 pm 28

OM — November 2020

OQ | HI K I NG MAP 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.

9

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 — November 2020

29

We know Ojai.

Lucky Q Ranch is a 106+ acre, one-of-a-kind property with mountain and lake views perfect for a weekend escape or private retreat to live the simpler, country lifestyle you have always dreamed of. The custom, stone house features unique touches throughout, such as reclaimed doors made from 150-year-old oak, century-old tin tiles, circa 1900 light fixtures, and a Luke French-inspired fireplace. Also enjoy easy access to the shops, cafĂŠs, golf courses, and more in Ojai, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and beyond. www.LuckyQRanchOjai.com Price Upon Request

Enjoy the Ojai lifestyle at Kenewa Oaks minutes from downtown with a five-bedroom, eight-bathroom main house, two-bedroom guest house, pool, outdoor kitchen, horse area, solar panels, and much more. www.1577KenewaStreet.com $2,199,000

Three-bedroom, 2.5 Golden West home remodeled in 2020 with two fireplaces, swimming pool, fruit trees, flexible spaces for home office or hobbies. www.1116DelNidoCourt.com $1,250,000

The Davis Group ojaivalleyestates.com

Nora Davis

BRE License #01046067

805.207.6177

nora@ojaivalleyestates.com

We’re lifelong residents.

Corral Canyon Ranch in Cuyama Valley is a 277+ acre ranch with five recently renovated houses, equestrian facilities, pastures, hay fields, stunning views set against the stunning Sierra Madre Mountains. www.29443hwy33.com Price Upon Request

Rancho Tranquilo is located on 5+ acres in Upper Ojai with five bedrooms, flex rooms, pool, tennis court, caretaker’s quarters, horse facilities, solar, RV garage, views and more. www.12605HighwindsRoad.com $3,375,000

Kiowa Creek Farm is just a short drive from downtown with a three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home on 1.27 acres with three-car garage, two fireplaces, horse facilities, and beautiful outdoor living areas with patio fireplace. www.11311CreekRoad.com $1,299,000

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 — November 2020