December 2018 - Ojai Monthly

DISCOVER 18

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OJAI ce

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MONTHLY Real Estate & Visitor Information

Fire Show

Parameter-Pushing Art

Ojai Museum Gets Nod from ‘The Gray Lady’

Russell Crotty’s Observational Talents on Display

rain drain pains Tips for Cleaning Those Gutters

Cover Photo, Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company See Ad on Page 12 Visitor Information • Hikes • Events • Activities • Lifestyle Tips & Tactics See More AtOM OjaiHub.com — December 2018

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PA T T Y WA LT C H E R

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

LUXURIOUS DOWNTOWN TOWN HOME This sophisticated Mediterranean style town home has been upgraded with an eye for detail. The open interior flows through archways, pillars and gorgeous faux paint, illuminated by clerestory windows. Includes a stunning library with glass doors and built-in shelving, a landscaped patio with outdoor fireplace, and a balcony with lovely views.

236SM ontgomer ySt O jai. com

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ed ur at Fe on ck Ba r ve Co

REGINALD JOHNSON MASTERPIECE Designed in 1914 by Reginald Johnson, this impeccable historic home on a 25 acre ranch will take you back to a time and place of peace and serenity. It is fully upgraded while maintaining the integrity of a 1914 home. Includes a 2 bedroom gatehouse, a 2,500 square foot redwood barn, a separate studio, a pool, and a pickle ball court.

1 5 63G r id leyR d O ja i. com

PATTY WALTCHER

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

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

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ojaihub.com

Ojai’s community website

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

OM — December 2018

THE WILLIAMSON-VANKEULEN GROUP

let us show you what living ojai is all about

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805.320.3314•bre#01448441

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12490 MacDonald Drive

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1.833.Buy.Ojai

COLDWELL BANKER PROPERTY SHOPPE • 727 WEST OJAI AVENUE, OJAI, CA 93023

TABLE OF CONTENTS DECEMBER 2018

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Editor’s Note

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Featured Event: Russell Crotty at

Porch Gallery

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Calendar of Events

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13 Tips to Prepare for the Next Fire

30 Featured Professional: Jessica

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Thompson of Green Goddess

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Clean Out Those Gutters!

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Stay Ojai — Hotels Guide

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Eat in Ojai — Restaurant Guide

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My Ideal Ojai Day: Ilona Saari

40 My Garden — Girls’ Camp 41

Sold in Ojai

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Who’s Who In Ojai

44 Top Hikes In Ojai’s Backcountry

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Ojai Facts & Founders

DISCOVER

OJAI De

Editor & Publisher, Bret Bradigan Realtor/Partner, Ross Falvo Associate Editor, Sarah Howery Hart Contact Us: Ross Falvo, 805.207.5094 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 by Sue Gruber Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company

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m ber 20

MONTHLY Real Estate & Visitor Information

Fire Show

Parameter-Pushing Art

Ojai Museum Gets Nod from ‘The Gray Lady’

Russell Crotty’s Observational Talents on Display

rain drain pains Tips for Cleaning Those Gutters

Cover Photo, Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company See Ad on Page 12 Visitor Information • Hikes • Events • Activities • Lifestyle Tips & Tactics See More AtOM OjaiHub.com — December 2018

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DISCOVER

OJAI MONTHLY

OJAI SPIRIT ON DISPLAY Real Estate Values Correspond With Cultural Values

Bret Bradigan

The Wall Street Journal’s Nov. 25th edition contained a story headlined “To Discover an Up-andComing Neighborhood, Look for the Museum.” The story by Alina Dizik states, “A number of cities around the globe have discovered that a new museum or arts district that a new museum or arts district not only revitalizes downtowns, they improve real-estate values as well.”

To emphasize this point, the Grey Lady herself, the New York Times, ran a long and interesting feature about the Ojai Valley Museum’s latest exhibit, “Trial by Fire,” in its Nov. 18th edition. It’s oddly fitting, and disconcerting, that the retrospective about the Thomas Fire, once the state’s largest wildfire, opened while the Camp Fire, which replaced it on the top of that list of dubious distinction, still raged. Welcome to the new normal.

The Wall Street Journal’s story was more optimistic than the dire accounts of the houses burned and lives laid waste. Instead, it showed that Ojai has long been on the right track. The Ojai Valley Museum is a community treasure. The former St. Thomas Aquinas Church was designed by famed architect Wallace Neff on behalf of Edward Libbey’s makeover of Ojai into one of California’s earliest, and most successful, planned communities. The splendid architecture of our community is set against the astonishingly beautiful natural backdrop. Our lives are enhanced every day by the thoughtful intentions of our founders as well as the natural setting -— the two work together in a mutually reinforcing synergy loop. No wonder that Ojai is known around the world for our superb artists and musicians, actors and architects, dreamers and believers.

The WSJ calls it the “Bilbao Effect,” after the economic surge that followed the construction of the Guggenheim Museum in the Basque city in the north of Spain. Stephen Sheppard, an economics professor at Williams College, was quoted about his research, which shows that property values of homes near museums rise by 20 to 50 percent over the course of five years. That seems about right, if you look at the recent housing developments in Los Angeles around the Broad Museum or the Museum of Contemporary Art. It’s an interesting juxtaposition that two of our nation’s preeminent papers of record had stories on museums and the fire. “When we started talking about this exhibit earlier this year, I don’t think it occurred to us — we didn’t even think about it — that it would be fire season,” said Wendy Barker, the director of the Ojai Valley Museum, as quoted in the Times.

It’s sad that the Thomas Fire was the focus of the exhibit, but it serves as a reminder of our past travails and a warning about the future ones. The fact is we learned that no fire can extinguish our spirit. Instead, it merely reinforced our resolve to endure, even to flourish. Now we’ve got actual financial value to back up our community values. That comes as no surprise to the Ojai watchers among us, but it’s still gratifying.

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Dale Hanson

Ojai Valley Real Estate (805)646-7229

B.R.E. 01229522 Notary Public

dale@ojaivalleyrealestate.com Call me for for your reall estate needs. needs Residential, commercial, or business opportunity.

Three VMU units in the heart of Ojai. Great location, walking distance to town. All units have a one car garage with small front yard. Two front room units need TLC. The back unit has been beautifully remodeled ZLWK H[WUD URRP IRU RIÀFH GHQ DQG VFUHHQHG LQ SRUFK Floors are hard-wood and new tile. Has fenced in back yard. $1,200,000

OJAI DOOR & WINDOW 942 E. OJAI AVE OJAI, CA 93023 P (805) 646 5032 F (805) 646 1708

ndow.com 8 8

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Cheryl & Ray Deckert Broker Associates

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

1003 N. Drown Avenue, Ojai - $849,000 Located in downtown’s highly sought-after Ojai Village, this 4 bedroom property boasts original, refinished hardwood floors, newer quartz counter tops and cabinets in the kitchen, spacious rooms, and partial mountain views. Behind the main home you will find a remodeled 300 sq. ft. structure (approximate) suitable for a studio, guest quarters or whatever your needs may be. All this on just under 1/2 acre!

402 N. Arnaz Street, Ojai - $550,000 Tucked away just one-half mile from Meiners Oaks Village you’ll find this 3 bedroom/1.75 bathroom Americana home. Inside you’ll find a comfortable living area with an updated kitchen behind it. The kitchen boasts updated cabinets with wood and glass doors, tile flooring, and all the creature comfort appliances you would expect. Don’t miss this one!

5 Valley Road, Oak View - $599,000 This 1,737 sq. ft., 3 bed/2.5 bath home will WOW the most discriminating buyers with its charm and fine detail! Upon entering you’ll notice high beamed ceilings, a warm, inviting fireplace and rich, tasteful flooring. Entertainment or family time is easy with the open floor plan design throughout the first floor, which continues to flow into the kitchen, featuring gleaming updated counter tops. The downstairs is rounded out with a full laundry room and half bath. Upstairs you’ll find two large bedrooms with a shared, remodeled bathroom and an oversized master bedroom with an en-suite remodeled bathroom and mountain views. Room for RV parking, too! www.BestBuysInOjai.com ~ Phone: 805.272.5221 ~ Email: Team@DeckertDePaola.com

DRE #01761150, 00780642, 01877842, 01962884, 02019595, 02018091, 01859199

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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.

Ojai Country Estate. Gated Spanish compound on 5-acres in Ojai. Surrounded by magnificent Oaks and includes Det. guest house with garage, pool and spa, pool house, cabana with bar and BBQ, tennis ct. and huge barn or work shop. Main house is approx.

4400 Sq.Ft. 2 master bedrooms, formal dining room, gourmet kitchen, raised beam ceilings, 4-fireplaces, living and family rooms, loft, 5-bedrooms, 7-baths, 3-car garage and centrally located to Ojai, Ventura and Santa Barbara. Great views, private location and room for horses--Solar owned by seller and included in sale $2,349,000

Charming 2-bedroom, 2.75bath 2 story contemporary view home on 1/2-acre in prime Ojai location. Step down living room with stone fireplace, den or office, formal dining area and breakfast area. Master bedroom with step up tub huge walk in closet with skylights. Incredible views, extensive decking overlooking pool/spa and pool house with 3/4 bath and shade area. Lush landscaping, 2-car garage, RV parking, completely fenced and much more $1,395,000 Rare find in East side of Ojai--Flat 1-acre lot just minutes from town. Utilities at street--buyer to verify. Buyer advised to check with City or County about possible development.

Perfect for mini estate, horses, planting etc. Great mountain views $399,500

10 Coldwell Banker

Almost one-and-a-half acres in Rancho Matilija. Completely flat, interior location, mountain views, adjacent to walking and riding trails and includes 1 Casitas water and sewer hook up. $699,500

Don’t Miss This 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

December Property Shoppe Ojai 727OM W—Ojai Ave,2018 Ojai, CA 93023 • dennisguernsey.com • www.ojaicoldwell.com

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)

Great investment opportunity to own an active, fully occupied property on main street in Oak View. Two buildings including one with two suites and a ‘50s vintage service station.. $575,000 Glenn Kuhr: 805-760-0366

Two bedroom mobile home located in the Ojai Villa 55+ gated community.

New high-end carpet, updated electric, skylights in kitchen and master bath, updated energy-efficient windows, air conditioning and appliances.

Home also features earthquake -esistant bracing and copper plumbing throughout. Large covered porch with new carpet, rear yard with fruit trees, roses and drip system. $132,500 Heather Erickson 805-798-3358

Rarely does Ojai’s top business location, in the heart of the downtown shopping district come available. The historic Arcade building located at 260 E. Ojai Avenue has approximately 1,380 sq ft, including front and back entrances. It includes bathroom and kitchen area and has the original vault from when the Bank of Italy and Bank of America were there. This is a rare and excellent business opportunity. $950,000

This Skyline Manufactured home with over 1,350 sq. ft. of living space is perfectly situated along the upper perimeter of the park with private yard and adjacent to the open preserve. The spacious kitchen with center island and laminate flooring offers ample cabinetry and dining area. Master suite presents wall-to-wall closet and an ensuite bath with a relaxing soaking tub and separate shower. $209,000 Heather Erickson 805-798-3358

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 Dale Hanson 805-646-7229

Three VMU units in the heart of Ojai. Great location, walking distance to town. All units have a one-car garage with small front yard. Two front room units need TLC. The back unit has been beautifully remodeled with extra room for office/den and screened-in porch. Floors are hardwood and new tile. Has fenced-in back yard. $1,200,000 Dale Hanson: 805-646-7229

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. $1,399,000. 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. $215,000 Heather Erickson: 805-798-3358

Possibilities galore. This home, located on wrap around corner lot offers three bedrooms two bathrooms, living room with Oak flooring and fireplace, central air/heat, family room with vaulted ceiling, detached two car garage and RV parking. Double gated driveway allows you to safely park the toys. Short commute to coastal cities. $495,000 Heather Erickson 805-798-3358

Dale Hanson 805-646-7229

Heather Erickson 805-798-3358

OM — December 2018

Glenn Kuhr 805 760-0366

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OJAI VALLEY

Trail Riding Company

Private Guided Trail Rides in the Ventura River Valley and the Los Padres Forest.

3 miles from downtown Ojai

Reservations: 805-890-9340

ojaivalleytrailridingcompany.com

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OM — December 2018

Duette® Honeycomb Shades with LightLock™

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Hunter Douglas Duette® Honeycomb Shades with the LightLock™ System feature innovative, light-blocking channels that eliminate light gaps and ensure total darkness. Ask for details today.

Chisum's Floor Covering 118 Bryant St Ojai, CA M-F: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Sat: By Appointment Sun: Closed 805-646-2440 www.chisumsfloorcovering.com Contractor Lic. #242944 Ask us about special savings on select Hunter Douglas operating systems.

OM — December 2018

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TE & CURIOUS WORLD S REMO

PUSHING

THE PARAMETERS Porch Gallery Ojai presents Russell Crotty: Remote and Curious Worlds Since the early 1990s, Russell Crotty has made significant contributions to contemporary drawing, especially with his distinctive ballpoint pen drawings on paper-coated suspended globes and within large-scale books. His work engages astronomy, landscape, mapping, surfing, and coastal studies, along with an idiosyncratic commentary on the natural and manmade worlds.

plastic containers — creating a 3-dimensional surface, along with small windows of distortion. The final over-layering of fiberglass and tinted bio-resin (a special non-toxic formula made from pine sap) causes a roll of the dice, pooling and congealing in chance ways that embed the subject into ethereal and particulate atmospheres.

A serious amateur astronomer, Crotty has obsessively and enthusiastically documented the night sky and celestial phenomenon, utilizing his own small array of telescopes with occasional sojourns to professional observatories. He has done projects with NASA, the Institute of the Arts and Sciences (IAS) at UC Santa Cruz, the UC Lick Observatory, and Theoretical Astrophysics Santa Cruz (TASC). His astronomical work is informed by scientific research by contemporary astrophysicists, romanticized by his extensive knowledge of exploratory 19th century science, and fueled by his immense passion for the cosmos.

Crotty’s materials have a clear discourse with the subject matter.

Engrossed by the abundance of scientific discoveries of exoplanets (planets orbiting other star systems that may be able to sustain life) – and now with the added urgency of the Anthropocene (the human impact on the Earth’s geology) – Crotty’s work moves out of this world and into the realm of science fiction. By exploring unknown extraterrestrial territories, futuristic space landers and research platforms, plus fantastical habitats on other planets, he attempts to communicate our earthly plight and our visceral desire to expand humanity into the greater universe.

Crotty has recently expanded his already vast body of work, investigating new ideas and processes that push the parameters of “works on paper” by incorporating collage, bio-resin and non-traditional materials. Remote and Curious Worlds features these new works on paper that are drawn with sticks dipped in ink, collaged with small detailed drawings, then overlaid with

Crotty is a 2015 Guggenheim Fellow. His work has been extensively exhibited nationally and internationally and is in many important museums and private and public collections.

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Key exhibitions: Museum of Modern Art, New York; Centre Pompidou, Paris; Turner Contemporary, United Kingdom; The Geffen

EXHIBIT RUNS THROUGH DEC. 16TH. Above: Crotty, a Guggenheim Fellow, has made his name with his pen-and-ink drawings on paper-coated globes.

Above right: He is now working on bio-resin and nontraditional materials.

Below: an amateur astronomer, Crotty is shown here visiting the Lick Observatory.

Contemporary at MOCA, Los Angeles; Institut Valencià d’Art Modern, Valencia, Spain; Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco; Miami Art Museum; Museum of Contemporary Art, Miami; Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego; Contemporary Arts Museum, Houston; and Vancouver Art Gallery, British Columbia.

Selected private and public collections: Museum of Modern Art, New York; Whitney Museum of American Art, New York; Centre Pompidou, Paris; Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles; Los Angeles County Museum of Art; San Francisco Museum of Modern Art; Museum of Contemporary Art Miami; High Museum of Art, Atlanta; NASA Art Program; and the US Department of State’s “ART in Embassies Program” at the Embassy of the United States, Beijing, China.

A native Californian, Crotty grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area, began and nurtured his art career in Los Angeles, lived many years in the Santa Monica Mountains – and now works in Ventura and resides in Ojai, California with his wife Laura Gruenther and their Australian Kelpies.

(Submitted by Porch Gallery) OM — December 2018

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an Ojai tradition since 1964

Open Every Day 9:30 - Sunset

302 W. Matilija Street | 805-646-3755

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OM — December 2018

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

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DECEMBER

undergroundartsexchange.com

“Gallery Exhibit — A Feast for the Eyes” Dates: November 30 to January 3rd.

Reception on December 8 Time: 4 to 6 p.m.

Location: Ojai Art Center, 113 South Montgomery Street Contact: ojaiartcenter.org, 805-646-0117

“Ugly Sweater Party — Ojai Youth Entertainers Studio Event” Date: December 13 Time: 5 to 9 p.m.

Location: Topa Mountain Winery 821 West Ojai Avenue

“Licity Live - Invitational Live Taping” Date: December 8 Time: 2 to 4 p.m.

Location: Underground Exchange, 1014 West Ojai Avenue Contact: 805-340-7893

“Purrs & Paws — Holiday Marketplace” Date: December 15 Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Location: Chaparral Auditorium, 414 East Ojai Avenue Contact: 805-646-6505 HSVC.org

REOCCURING EVENTS

“Cinderella” Dates: Through December 16 Times: Fridays, 7:30 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Location: Ojai Art Center Theater, 113 South Montgomery Street Contact: 805-646-0117 ojaiartcenter.org “The Belle of Amherst” Dates: Dec. 17 Times: Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m.

Location: Ojai Library, 111 East Ojai Avenue, Contact: 805-646-0117 ojaiartcenter.org

Contact: 646-5508 ext.103 Museum, 130 West Ojai Avenue meditationmount.org Contact: 640-1390 Certified Farmer’s Market Note: Meditation Mount has been on hiojaivalleymuseum.org Date: Every Sunday atus since the Thomas Fire. Check their Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. website at meditationmount.org.

“Eating Ojai” Food Tour Contact: 698-5555 REOCCURING EVENTS Date: Call to schedule Location: Matilija Street city parking lot Certified Farmer’s Market Time: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. behind the Arcade.

“Third Fridays” Date: Every Sunday Location: Varies Open air market featuring locally Date: Third Friday of the month Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Contact: 295-8687 grown produce, plants, musicians and Time: 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Contact: 698-5555 venturafoodtours.com handmade items, including soaps, basLocation: Downtown Businesses Location: Matilija Street city parking lot behind the Arcade. kets, beeswax candles and olive oil.

Contact: 640-1390 Open air market featuring locally grown produce, plants, musicians and handmade items, including soaps, baskets, beeswax Morning, Guided and Full Moon OjaiVillageExperience.com candles and olive oil.

Meditations Historical Walking Tours of Ojai Date: TBD Date: Saturdays, October through June “Ojai Fiction Writing Workshop” Historical Walking Tours of Ojai Location: Meditation Mount, 10340 Time: 10:30 a.m.

Date: Every Thursday Date: Every Tuesday through Sunday Reeves Road Location: Departs from the Ojai Valley Time: 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Time: Please call the Museum office to schedule 18

OM — December 2018

OPPOSITE PAGE: Ojai Youth Entertainers Studio (O.Y.E.S.) is hosting an ugly sweater party on December 13 at Topa Mountain Winery; Anna Kotula stars (Julie Harris pictured) in “Belle of Amherst”

- a one-woman play about Emily Dickinson, on Dec. 21-23 and 28-30; THIS PAGE: Porch Gallery is hosting Guy Webster’s “The Masks We Wear” January 10 to 17.

“The Belle of Amherst” Dates: Dec. 21-23, 28-30 Times: Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m.

Location: Ojai Art Center Theater, 113 South Montgomery Street Contact: 805-646-0117 ojaiartcenter.org

JANUARY “The Masks We Wear” Dates: January 10 to 17 Times: Varies.

Location: Porch Gallery, 310 East Matilija Street Contact: (805) 620-7589 porchgalleryofojai.com “Lola Haag Jazz Quartet” Date: January 25 Time: 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Location: Ojai Underground Exchange, 1016 West Ojai Ave Contact: (818) 516-6642 OjaiArtsExchange.com

FEBRUARY “Vie d’Art with OSA Artist Valerie Freeman” February 1 to 28 Reception: February 23, 2 to 4 p.m.

Location: Ojai Art Center, 113 South Montgomery Street Times: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, Fridays to Sundays, 12 noon to 4 p.m.

Contact: 760-855-2441, freemanart.com

Location: Ojai Library, 111 East Ojai Avenue Contact: 640-6865 vencolibrary.org

Date: By reservation 48 hrs in advance Time: varies Location: varies Contact: 272-8102 or email ride@ themobshop.com or online at porchgalleryojai.com Ojai bike tour features agricultural, Mount artistic, culinary,Meditation cultural and historical hosts Full Moon Medlandmarks in Ojai.

“Ojai Seeker’s Bike itations. Check their Tour” website at meditationmount.org or call 646Meditation Mount’s Full Moon 5508 for more updates.

Meditations have been on hiatus since the Thomas Fire. Check their website at meditationmount.org or call 646-5508 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

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ojaihub.com

Ojai’s community website

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

OM — December 2018

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THE FIRE NEXT TIME: 13 Tips to Help You Prepare “From the Fire” by Elizabeth Rose and Deva Temple is available on Amazon.com or online at FromTheFire.com.

How do most homes ignite during a wildfire? A floating ember or piece of burning wood touches down on a roof, gutter, in a vent, under a deck, or on a porch and ignites leaves and debris, says the National Fire Protection Association.

Or else, a surface fire simply takes the fast lane to your home via dry vegetation.

With that in mind, fortify your home like the castle it is with these 13 wildfire-repelling steps. But keep in mind that no product or technique is a failsafe against a raging fire.

1. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors If you don’t already have working smoke detectors or haven’t tested them recently, make that your No. 1 job. Now. 2. Check Fire Extinguishers And if you don’t have them, get them.

3. Get a Bucket, Shovel, and Hose Ready Have an easily accessible bucket, shovel (to dig a trench against encroaching ground fire), and connected garden hose to help you defend the area around your home.

4. I nvest in Rain Barrels An extra source of water can’t hurt. And rain barrels save on your water bills, too.

5. Clear Yard of Debris Keep gutters, porches, and the lawn free of debris, leaves, and fallen branches. If a fire threat is imminent, remove furniture

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and decorations from decks and porches, including welcome mats.

6. Plant Fire-Resistant Shrubs and Annuals Like irises, rhododendrons, hostas, and lilacs, which have high-moisture content.

Your local Cooperative Extension Office can advise you on an appropriate species for your area.

7. Remove Tree Branches Lower Than 6 Feet Fires tend to start low and rise. For that reason, don’t plant shrubs directly under trees; they can combust and cause the fire to rise up the tree. By the way, spacing out all plants and shrubs is a good practice, too.

8. Remove Tree Limbs Near Chimneys Keep them at least 10 feet away. Embers from burning limbs could fall in.

9. Set Up a Protective Perimeter Create a 100-foot perimeter around your home, free of dry leaves, grass, and shrubs that fuel wildfires. Keep petroleum tanks, cars, and wood piles outside of this safe zone.

10. Use Rocks Instead of Mulch Next to the House Lay a six-inch swatch of decorative rocks closest to the home and then use mulch from there. This also helps repel insects, like termites, (bugs like wood) and facilitate rain water drainage.

OM — December 2018

11. Use Non-Flammable Fencing If you have wood fencing around your home, replace any three-foot sections that attach to the home with metal or other non-flammable fencing material. A metal gate or decorative fencing piece is stylish as well as fire-friendly.

12. Cover Chimneys and Vents With Flame-Retardent Mesh And it’s cheap to do. They cost just a few dollars from hardware or home improvement stores.

13. Check Your Siding Fire-resistant or non-combustible siding like stucco or brick provides the best protection against fire. Make sure your siding, whatever type, is in good repair, because if the plywood or insulation are exposed, the home is more vulnerable to flames.

Some experts recommend spraying homes with fire retardants, which can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the product, region, and size of the project. But some of the chemicals used to make flame-retardants have toxic properties. Although you might have less exposure to chemicals used on your home’s exterior than those inside, toxicity issues could still be a factor.

Most important, if a wildfire is on its way, evacuate. And have an evacuation plan worked out with your family before the worst happens.

TOM WEBER Broker

CA BRE#00805061

Mind Your Manors

MY SINCERE WISHES FOR A VERY HAPPY, HEALTHY & REWARDING HOLIDAY SEASON

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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

OjaiTom.com 805-320-2004 info@OjaiTom.com

www.MindYourManors.info 805.258.3051 AJ@MindYourManors.info

37 YEARS IN THE OJAI VALLEY

DO YOU HAVE A BOOK IN YOU?

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OM — December 2018

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Donna Sallen

RE/MAX Gold Coast Realtors

located in downtown ojai, thiS impeccable home haS a SpaciouS, open floor plan with vaulted ceilingS, fireplace, lovely lightfilled gourmet kitchen and a Stunning maSter Suite.

located in the quaint oakS weSt neighborhood on a tree lined Street, you will enjoy thiS large family home.

wonderful horSe property located on the ojai valley horSe/bike trail.

805-798-0516

Surrounded by graceful, majeStic oakS and rock wallS, thiS gated and private home iS Sitting perfectly on more than an acre of land on the eaSt end.

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.

charming, charming, charming. thiS 1923 craftSmanStyle home iS tucked away on a quiet cul-de-Sac in the heart of downtown ojai. aS you enter into the living room, you will immediately feel the charm thiS home offerS.

There’s no place like home ...

Let me find yours.

in the preStigiouS eaSt end of ojai, down a private lane, SitS an elegantly modern home recently remodeled by joSeph lam, owner of Zen weSt deSign.

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

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OM — December 2018

Down Home Furnishings

2 5 0 E . O j a i Ave . O j a i , C A 805.640.7225 DownHomeFurnishings.com

CHAD CARPER CONSTRUCTION old world builders

805.320.7170 License# 581645

OM — December 2018

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20 Acres | Equestrian Ranch $3,385,000

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

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

3.3 Acres - 4 bed/3 bath in downtown Ojai $1,325,000 www.1368Farnham.com

PENDING

Downtown contemporary w/mid-century flare | $1,095,000 | www.507Aliso.com

Immaculate Remodeled Mid-Century Gem in Downtown Ojai | $ 899,000

Downtown 2.5 Acre - Persimmon Hills | Great Views - $579,500

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

Ojai Creekside Condo 1,900+ Sq Ft 4 Bed | 2 Bath | $595,000

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

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

Mid Century Estate | 11+ Acres | Two Legal Parcels $3,495,000 | 1071RanchoDr.com

First Time To Market! Several Parcels Nine Homes | 31 Acres

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

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

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

Saddle Mountain | Two Private Acres Impeccable | $1,575,000

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

HOMPSON JESSICA T

‘OUR PRECIOUS PLANTED EARTH’ Thompson urges active participation with clients in water, soil conservation

By Sarah Howery Hart Jessica Thompson, owner of Ojai’s Green Goddess Gardens, says that when you invite her landscape design, installation, and maintenance company into your garden, you’ve become an active participant in preserving what she refers to as “our precious ‘planted’ earth.” Thompson, who has a Bachelors of Science in horticulture from Cal Poly, a permaculture certificate, and her contractors state license in landscaping, adds, “In preserving the earth, you will find yourself marveling and interacting daily with your new outdoor world.”

She explains that today, however, those interactions differ.

“We’re in the situation where we have restricted water, so all gardens will change. Water is a very precious commodity, but we should still be able to have beauty. It just has to be different.”

Thompson, who opened her original business years ago under similar drought conditions, adds, “I have a few tricks up my sleeve, including making sure irrigation is correct and soil biology is strong and healthy.”

Regarding watering, she says assuring that irrigation systems are properly designed and maintained is imperative, including using wells, which are found on many Ojai properties. “A big concern is making sure your well is producing enough to irrigate the landscape so you can share the load with the city.”

She considers grey water a good supplemental water resource, too, and says that one key to benefiting the most is to spread grey water over mulch or target particular planting beds.

She suggests a key technique for those desiring water features, too, using subterranean reservoirs to capture and recirculate, but also emphasizes a new trend in garden décor: artwork. “We’re trying to do more art pieces, like sculpture, a beautiful bolder, an urn, stacks of rock, anything that withstands heat and cold and goes along with the style of the house.” She says that given all of the wonderful artists in the Ojai Valley, finding appropriate pieces is easily accomplished.

Another way residents conserve water, Thompson explains, is by letting lawns die out and covering them, but she says certain decorative coverings are preferable. “A lot of landscaping now includes gravel and decomposed granite, which is rock. But rock absorbs heat, and that heats the soil and also radiates the heat outward.” She says this may make poor landscape conditions 30

OM — December 2018

even worse. “Use woodchips, instead,” she advises. “That will help keep the soil cooler.

“And another factor I think is critical is shade around the landscape. That will keep the temperatures cooler in the yard.

If you do have a lawn, reduce the size, but make sure trees get water.” Regarding other planting materials, she emphasizes that not all native plants are appropriate. “Not all natives are drought tolerant. You have to have plant material that is appropriate for our current restrictions.”

For those selling their homes the challenges may be even more difficult. “People selling their homes should concentrate on keeping the trees healthy,” she advises, “and add in droughttolerant plants.” She believes buyers will attend more to landscapes now, including irrigation.

Thompson stresses another crucial point. “Everyone should make sure to follow the two-day-a-week lawn watering regime.

But just driving around, it’s evident that Ojai is progressive.

People in the Ojai area are more conscious of the situation.”

Thompson is available for consultation on landscapes designed to enhance participation in preserving our precious planted earth.

(Jessica Thompson, Goddess Gardens: 805- 640-1827, greengoddessgarden@sbcgloal.net.)

960 E Ojai Ave Suite 106/107, Ojai, CA 93023 805-646-6673

RESIDENTIAL- HOSPITALITY - CONTRACT OM — December 2018

31

How to Clean Rain Gutters

By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela

Cleaning gutters is one of those home maintenance tasks that needs to be accomplished at least twice a year, but no one actually wants to do it. It isn’t that fun to drag out a ladder and scoop debris out of your gutters, but leaving it in there can keep your gutters from functioning properly and increases the risk of embers igniting on your home if there is a fire nearby.

If you have a handyman, caretaker or landscaping company that regularly visits your home, the easiest way to keep your gutters clean is to ask them to add it to your home’s maintenance schedule at least twice per year.

If not, you can always hire a professional to clean them if you are not comfortable on a ladder or don’t like the idea of scooping out gunky leaves and debris.

After you set up your ladder and don your protective gear, the first step is to scoop out any loose leaves and debris. Deposit the debris in the bucket to dispose of when you are off the ladder. It may be a bit more difficult to work while wearing gloves, but keep in mind that there may be sharp edges, bacteria or dead rodents to contend with while you are up there.

Once you have removed any loose debris, the next step is to use your garden hose with the spray nozzle to remove any remaining grime or stuck-on leaves. You may also need to use your scrub brush if the hose isn’t doing the trick.

If you plan on cleaning your own gutters, the easiest option is to buy a gutter cleaning attachment for your leaf blower. This will allow you to blow most of the leaves and debris out of the gutters from the safety of the ground. You can then rake up the leaves to add to your compost bin and only climb a ladder to check your gutters and make sure they are clean.

To clean your gutters without a leaf blower, you will need a ladder, bucket, garden hose, spray nozzle, scrub brush, something to scoop out debris, and some safety gear, such as gloves, a dust

32

mask and eye protection.

OM — December 2018

Finally, you will need to check your downspouts to make sure they are not clogged. Run your hose at the top and watch to see if the water easily enters the pipe at the top and flows freely from the bottom. If it doesn’t, tap the pipe in several spots to knock loose any blockages. You can also try spraying a forceful stream of water into each end of the downspout (but try to save water by knocking the blockages loose first). If tapping the pipe doesn’t work, you can try unclogging it with a snake. If you still are not having any luck, you may need to remove segments of the pipe to access and remove the blockages.

GREEN BUILDING FEATURE

ADD “GREEN” TO YOUR WALLET

W

e often find that, while many of our clients go into remodels wanting a green approach, they frequently decide against green selections as they look to minimize the remodel and price per square foot costs. We think this is a mistake. And it’s not only because greening your home is better for both our planet and for your family.

While going greener with your remodel may cost a bit more on the front end, chances are you’ll make back your money plus some once your remodel is complete. Here are four reasons why you should consider a greener remodel as an investment instead of an extravagance.

1. The average U.S. household spends a whopping $2,150 on annual energy bills. Bringing your whole home up to California’s Title 24 standards will not only save more than $6,000 in energy over 30 years, but an estimated 300 thousand gallons of water, to boot. Additional air sealing and insulation measures will further enhance your energy savings and comfort. Solar strategies add another dimension to overall energy savings.

2. A recent peer-reviewed study found that high performance homes sell for a premium of 3.46%, on average. Even if you’re not looking to sell in the near term, the features you add now can add dollars to your selling price down the road…and give your real estate agent a listing that’s more tantalizing to potential buyers.

3. Green building materials are often much more durable than their less green counterparts. For homeowners, this doesn’t just mean less home maintenance expense, but less effort and headache replacing components down the line.

4. Improved indoor air quality can make your family feel more energetic, minimize doctor visits in the near term, and help to prevent against respiratory issues later.

For more information or for a complimentary home evaluation, call, click or visit Allen Construction.

Ojai | Ventura | Santa Barbara | San Luis Obispo 805.884.8777 | buildallen.com The Central Coast’s leading green building experts since 1983.

OM — December 2018

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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 — December 2018

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

What if the love of your life sees you in a whole new light?

Clothing and accessories so beautiful they appear in the Smithsonian and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

805-646-4877 Come to our site and see how incredible you can look!

www.theunzicker.com OM — December 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 — December 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

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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

www.JoeTheRentalGuy.com JOE DAVIS "The Rental Guy" 727 W OJAI AVE, OJAI CA 93023 • BRE #01999568

Visit our

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

heavenlyhoneycompany.com | 805-633-9103 OM — December 2018

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AN IDEAL OJAI DAY

BY ILONA SAARI Author & Contributor

When I was asked to write my own ideal day, I realized that I have one for each season — yes, Ojai does have seasons, sort of. Spring brings warm days with lovely breezes, the perfect time of year to drive up to the Summit to enjoy one of the drive-in’s delicious chicken sandwiches outside on the picnic tables, then head back to town to see the latest art exhibit at the Porch Gallery and pick up a box of Beato Chocolates (a perfect host/ hostess gift, if you can resist eating them all yourself).

Summer brings the heat, and after a day of writing in my air-conditioned home office, a dinner of fresh oysters and a chilled martini at Sea Fresh is the perfect way to end a scorching hot day. And the yearly Taste of Ojai and Holiday Home Tour fundraising events in which I have taken part over the years each represent an ideal fall day.

But this is a winter issue and December opens up my holiday shopping floodgates and singing of holiday songs: “Sleigh bells rings, are you listening … In the lane snow is glistening...”

OK, Ojai doesn’t get snow (except every 100 years or so), and our lanes aren’t glistening, but we have the Arcade all decked out with boughs of holly. But, before I hit the shops in the Arcade and environs, I start my ideal winter day with an early morning hike on the Shelf (winter is not rattlesnake season, otherwise it’s the 38

mostly reptile-free bike trail for me), followed by a trip to Balance for some strength training, then home for a couple of hours of writing my latest article or working on my new mystery novel (a sequel to my Manhattan-based political thriller, “Freeze Frame”).

I shut off my computer and head to the Arcade for lunch at Jenny Newell’s, Bonnie Lu’s Cafe, for a perfectly melty, threecheese, grilled cheese, or Café Emporium (Arcade-adjacent) for a late breakfast/ brunch. Then it’s time to do damage to my “pocketbook” as I wander in and out of the shops in the Arcade and across the street.

My first stop this time of year is always Rains of Ojai, our very own department store stocked with men’s and women’s clothing, kitchenware, dishware, hardware and gift items. I love looking for Ojaicentric holiday gift items like cute Ojai dish towels or Rains own brand of jams, olive oils, salad dressings, salsas and condiments, plus lotions and soaps. At Rains it pours!

As a former on-air guest designer/artist on HGTV’s, “Your Home With Kitty Bartholomew” (Kitty, now an Ojai resident, is the Ojai Art Center Theater’s dresser & props treasure), I love dropping in on interior designer extraordinaire, Anne Carper’s wondrous store, Down Home Furnishings, to see what the latest furniture or accent pieces have been added to her inventory. Then it’s on to Priscilla’s and Julia Rose & Co. to shop for a new holiday outfit. Of course, I can never pass OM — December 2018

up going into Fig Curated Living, a shop filled with unique, handmade and fair-trade items for home and garden that make perfect host/hostess and holiday gifts for friends and family. Alas, no “figgy pudding!”

Love Heals features “made in Ojai” handcrafted jewelry and OVA Arts is a gallery filled with a treasure-trove of oneof-a-kind artwork by local artists.

After I shop till I drop, nothing says ideal Ojai day more than getting my hairpampered by Denise Heller at Glo West salon and a mani/pedi by Teresa Farrell.

The perfect way to end my ideal day is dinner and a show with my husband.

Ca Marco at the east end of town is a favorite restaurant choice. Love the chicken parm or one of the restaurant’s delicious pastas, such as its dreamy, creamy, ever sinful fettuccine alfredo … then onto the Ojai Art Center Theater to see its latest offering … this December it’s the hilarious English panto version of “Cinderella,” (and later in the December, “The Belle of Amherst,” a one-woman show starring our own Anna Kotula).

But, before we head home, we make one final stop for a nightcap at The Vine.

Then, sated, happy and back home, it’s time to slip under our down comforter to erase all thoughts of my pocketbook damage and dream of a suite filled with sugar plum fairies. Sweet.

Russell Crotty: Remote and Curious Worlds on view at Porch Gallery until December 16. Beato Chocolates available in the Beato Lounge.

310 E Matilija Avenue Artist Mary Neville at Taste of Ojai at the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa.

The Summit. Photo by D. Kay Renick. 12689 Ojai Road Sea Fresh oysters.

533 E. Ojai Avenue

Shelf Road.

Photo by Jen Kessinich

Holiday Home Tour.

Photo by Fred Rothenberg.

Bonnie Lu’s.

Photo by Paul Wah. 328 E Ojai Avenue Balance Health Center 236 W. Ojai Avenue #201 Glo West Salon.

306 E Ojai Avenue Glo West Nail Spa. 307 E Ojai Avenue #100

The Vine.

308 E Ojai Avenue

Ojai Cafe Emporium.

Photo by Wendy Limauge.

108 S Montgomery Street Cá Marco.

1002 East Ojai Avenue

Belle of Amherst.

Ojai Art Center.

Dec 21- 30.

113 S Montgomery Street

Arcade Shops: Rains Department Store. 218 E Ojai Avenue, Down Home Furnishings. 250 E Ojai Avenue, Priscilla’s.

320 E Ojai Avenue, Julia Rose & Co. 335 E Ojai Avenue, Fig Curated Living. 327 E Ojai Avenue, Love Heals. 260 E Ojai Avenue, OVA Arts. 238 E Ojai Avenue

MY OJAI GARDEN

BY LESLIE LIPPINCOTT HIDLEY Long ago and pretty close by, in another Ojai garden, I gave a party. Made a holiday, actually, which we have only celebrated the one time so far: Girls’ Day.

Photos by Ladye Eugenia Stewart

It was at the house on Country Club Drive. Like lots of people in California, I lived in a million-dollar-teardown and the house is no longer standing. It was designed by Chalfant Head and built in 1954 and is a great loss — and not only to me, but to a body of work. Here are some photos, along with some of the Girls of Girls’ Day. I gave the holiday because a number of the young women in the family were pregnant and I was thinking also about how wonderful my co-grandmothers were — Norma Spanbock, may she rest in peace, and Margaret Stupar, and Paula Kjolsrud. And that likely Margaret had never had a massage in her life — a life devoted to taking care of other people, as was Paula’s life. And Norma, who gave me Jewish mother lessons and was such a talented artist, which came out beautifully and modestly in the Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls she made and the clothes for our granddaughters, Rose and Gracie, and the beautiful pottery bowls.

So I wanted to give everybody a treat. So I hired masseuses, manicurists, cooks, Fern Barishman came and played piano in the evening for us, someone sang for us, we gossiped and played and talked and got our nails done and put our feet in the kiddie pool to cool off and had lemonade and mimosas. And just did whatever we wanted for a couple of days. All the women in the family, plus the little girls. It was a kind of summer camp.

We even had a camp uniform: T-shirts designed by Judy Thompson of ballerina legs and feet with the motto “Think Pink” and on the bottom, fuchsia polka-dotted sarongs — which are great cause they fit any size – even pregnant women — and look fabulous. Judy even made tiaras for us out of fake pearls and silver pipe cleaners, for formal dinners…

I thought at the time that we ought to do it every year, but events intervened, as they sometimes do. But maybe we will take it up again ... and I certainly invite you to have a Girls’ Day celebration at your house!

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OM — December 2018

SOLD IN OJAI Homes Sold Last Month

A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RECENT HOME SALES 108 North La Luna Avenue, 2 bed, 1 bath, 981 Sq. Ft. Listed $499,000.

Sold $450,000

303 Bald Street, 4 bed, 4 bath, 3,278 Sq. Ft. Listed $1,350,000. Sold $1,085,000

1040 Granito Drive, 3 bed, 2 bath, 1,181 Sq. Ft. Listed $559,000. Sold $549,000

215 South Montgomery Street, 3 bed, 3 bath, 2,850 Sq. Ft. Listed $1,099,000. Sold $1,099,000

901 Martin Street, 3 bed, 2 bath, 1,284 Sq. Ft. Listed $575,000. Sold $570,000 865 West Lomita Avenue, 4 bed, 3 bath, 1,930 Sq. Ft. Listed $709,000. Sold $672,000 518 South Ventura Street, 2 bed, 2 bath, 1,166 Sq. Ft. Listed $649,500. Sold $550,000 10796 Creek Road, 2 bed, 1 bath, 908 Sq. Ft. Listed $995,000. Sold $844,500 811 Tico Road, 3 bed, 1.50 bath, 1,351 Sq. Ft. Listed $869,000. Sold $875,000

Always Connected

215 North Daly Road, 3 bed, 2.5 bath, 2,149 Sq. Ft. Listed 1,279,000. Sold $1,231,000 818 Oakwood Street, 4 bed, 2.5 bath, 2,148 Sq. Ft. Listed $895,000. Sold $880,000 276 Running Ridge Trail, 5 bed, 5 bath, 3,349 Sq. Ft. Listed $2,200,000.

Sold $1,500,000 805 Del Oro Drive, 5 bed, 3.5 bath, 3,681 Sq. Ft. Listed $2,155,000.

Sold $1,880,000

On the go? We’re on it. With 24/7 mobile banking, the MobiMoney app to control your debit card, and Apple Pay ®, Android Pay™, and Samsung Pay, you always have us in the palm of your hand.

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

1.888.454.BANK | Tech.BankoftheSierra.com

© Bank of the Sierra. All rights reserved.

Information provided by Ojai MLS OM — December 2018

41

WHO’S WHO

42

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

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

​ 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

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

Amanda Stanworth Coldwell Banker Prop. Shoppe Phone: 805-2188117 • E-mail: amandastanworth77@gmail. com Web Page: Rooney-Stanworth.com

Erik Wilde Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe Wilde-Wilde.com

805-830-3254

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

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 — December 2018

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

What makes Christmas special for you?

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

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.

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

Cassandra Vankeulen Realtor. Designer 01929366 805-798-1272 williamsonvankeulengroup@gmail.com

Lauren Vankeulen Realtor BRE# 01973956 805-798-2397

Dawn E. Shook - Executive Officer, Ojai Valley Board of REALTORS I am here at my desk at The Ojai Valley Board of REALTORS, looking at my new pink bottle brush tree — six inches tall!

Bottle brush trees are my all time favorite Christmas decoration, originally from the ‘50s and ‘60s. I remember them fondly from my Grandma’s house, mostly in green, and sometimes, with small shiny balls embedded in the bottle brush.

Now they come in all colors and sizes, and of course, my new one is pale pink sparkly!

I also love handmade stockings ... my son, daughter-in-law, grandson, and my new granddaughter all have one. My grandma made my son’s stocking when he was little and he cherishes it to this day.

Remember the ceramic green or white trees with small “christmas lights” in the branches that lit up when you turned on the tree? Another favorite of mine, with replicas in stores now!

Interesting what makes Christmas and the Holiday season special for each one of us. I do hope you all have lovely December Holiday Season, and a great New Year in 2019!

See you about town!

OM — December 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

Photo by Caitlin Petersen

left. The trailhead is a further half-mile. Length: 4.4 miles to 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 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.) NOTE: The post-fire debris flows from last January have devastated the creek channel; it will be years before it fully recovers its former grandeur.

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.

OM — December 2018

45

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.

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

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

46

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.

Elevation:

745

OM — December 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.”

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Visit our Honey Tasting Room 206 East Ojai Avenue, in the Arcade, downtown Ojai Ask us about our Honey Club! www.heavenlyhoneycompany.com | 805-633-9103 48 OM — December 2018