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CONTENTS
Live Comfortably!
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VOL.14 NO. 7
SEPTEMBER 2020
FEA TU R ES
editor’s note
6 Breaking With Tradition
Cover Story 13 Quaint to Contemporary
A 1920s Craftsman gets updated for 21st century living.
Travel 20 Neighbors to the North Fine wines and beers a short drive up the 101. About Town 28 A Landscape for All Seasons Embracing the ebb and flow of time in an Oxnard meadow. Conversation 33 Carving Out a Life Talking shop with Santa Paula woodworker Mike Adams.
20 years ago I was given the privilege of owning and operating a BIRKENSTOCK Store in Downtown Ventura. Come and see how these shoes can make your life more comfortable. –JoAnne Hadley
PHOTO CREDIT: LUIS CHAVEZ
13 518 E. Santa Clara St., Downtown Ventura (805) 643-7043 4
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COVER:The newly remodeled backyard of Barbara and Arthur Kroon of Santa Paula. Photo by Luis Chavez
DEPARTMENTS COMMUNITY 8 Fueling Our Communities SHORT LIST 38 A preview of coming attractions
Established in 1993 • License # 764241
805.658.0440 1500 Callens Road, Ventura, CA www.KitchenPlacesVentura.com Showroom visits available by appointment.
PHOTO BY LUIS CHAVEZ
EDITOR’S NOTE
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EDITOR IN CHIEF Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer
C
BREAKING WITH TRADITION
apricious creatures that we are, humans seem to be drawn to novelty and familiarity in equal measure. It can be maddening to be constantly in a state of flux — but fixed in one place for too long can kill the soul, too. Somewhere in the tension between tradition and transformation is where I think most of us find our happy place. The house of Barbara and Arthur Kroon of Santa Paula, which graces this month’s cover, balances those two opposing forces nicely. From the outside, this 1923 Craftsman is the epitome of that classic, historic style which has countless fans. But the decades-old interior had long since lost its luster. The Kroons spent a year remodeling the kitchen, family room, side and back yards to create spaces that are now all modern convenience and contemporary cool — while still maintaining much of the home’s vintage charm.
of bloom and decay transforms a riot of color to a sparser space going to seed, lying in wait for its next chance to shine. There’s an order to the chaos, if you embrace its seasonal nature. Sometimes the overhaul isn’t to your home, but your lifestyle. Mike Adams (Conversation) was living the traditional American dream: he had a successful and lucrative career and lived in a big, beautiful Victorian. But in reality, he worked all the time, that gorgeous house always needed maintenance and his stress levels were off the charts. As his health and relationships suffered, he realized something had to give. So he downsized to a modest bungalow, traded the office for a workshop and built something both sustainable and pleasurable. Making furniture may not bring home quite the salary, but it earns enough . . . and he is able to reinvest in his life, family and friends.
Catherine and Wayne Lewis of Oxnard (About Town) Traditions are wonderful things: They connect us with were confronting a problem many in drier climates have the past, remind us of history and heritage. But they can had to face: What to do with that traditional, but borimpose unhealthy limitations, too. It’s OK to break them ing (and water-guzzling) lawn? Cacti and succulents once in a while — and create new ones that serve us better. are the first things that come to mind when considering water-conscious landscapes, but the Lewises craved color, wildness and wildlife. So instead of a typical California xeriscape, they embraced a meadow. Not always tidy, far – Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer from evergreen, the meadow changes over time as the cycle nancy@ventanamonthly.com
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CONTRIBUTORS Luis Chavez Karen Lindell Chris O’Neal Alex Wilson GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Bret Hooper Nathalie Proulx ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Warren Barrett ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Barbara Kroon
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1. Maria Ventura, Monica White, John Marquez, Carlos Ortiz and Brian Miller. 2. Local volunteers Blake, Dylan, Bronte and Shaun. 3. Volunteers Al, Ken and Ray from the Santa Paula Lion’s Club. 4. Food Share President and CEO Monica White. 5. Food Share’s Jennifer Caldwell with 5-year-old Leah.
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FUELING OUR COMMUNITIES FOOD SHARE AND SOCALGAS
Photos courtesy of Vivien Minton/Food Share
F
ood Share and Southern California Gas Co. teamed up for “Fueling Our Communities,” a program designed to create drive-through meal distribution events in Santa Paula and Oxnard’s El Rio community. More than 26,000 free meals were provided to families in need. In addition, families received gift cards to local restaurants, the purchase of which has helped support eating establishments struggling during pandemic-related restrictions. “In partnership with SoCalGas, Food Share has been able to distribute 800 gift cards to local restaurants during our drive-through food distributions,” said Monica White, president and CEO of Food Share. “Those in need receive a free, delicious meal and in turn we’re happy to support our local food economy. It’s really been a win-win for everyone.”
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foodshare.com www.socalgas.com/coronavirus
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A 1920s Craftsman gets updated for 21st century living.
BY NANCY D. LACKEY SHAFFER | PHOTOS BY LUIS CHAVEZ
M
The small-town charm of Santa Paula can be felt most prominently in its downtown district. Main Street is lined with historic storefronts and could be mistaken for a movie set. (It has been used as a film location on more than one occasion.) On weekends, locals stroll its sidewalks, dining on the patios of charming cafes and enjoying its low-key ambience. On the side streets you’ll find lovely murals depicting the city’s history, as well as the Agriculture Museum, the Art Museum and an old-fashioned train depot. The Tudor Revival Glen Tavern Inn, established in 1911, tells the story of early 20th century California through its clientele: high society oil and citrus barons at first, giving way to gamblers, bootleggers and prostitutes during Prohibition and then luminaries of stage and screen (Carole Lombard, Steve McQueen, John Wayne) during Hollywood’s Golden Age. That charm extends to the area’s residential neighborhoods, which
are filled with beautifully maintained Victorian and Craftsman homes — including one belonging to Barbara and Arthur Kroon. The Kroon Craftsman was built in 1923, and from the outside has maintained that very distinctive style: overhanging eaves, columns supporting a porch roof, large window panes arranged in two-by-five grids. The entryway and living room also have that 1920s feel, with original hardwood floors, a fireplace and an arched alcove. But go a little further in and you jump ahead about 100 years — thanks to a year-long remodeling effort begun in 2019.
NEW DESIGN FOR A NEW LIFESTYLE In 2003, when the Kroons took up residence, the 2000-squarefoot three-bed, two-bath house had ample 1920s character: hardwood Continued on page 16
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BOTTOMS UP: Arthur and Barbara Kroon enjoy their outdoor space in style -- with margaritas in the built-in whirlpool spa.
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floors, stucco walls, lots of beige ceramic tile in the kitchen and bathrooms. Very typical for its time, but not very modern — and the kitchen always felt cramped. A gentle nudge from a neighbor got the ball rolling. “This whole thing started when our next door neighbor got her house painted and then came over and asked when we were going to get ours painted, too,” Barbara recalls. “It kind of shamed us into going forward with renovations that we had been saving for and planning and dreaming about for a decade.” “Our neighbor sent her contractor over to do a house painting estimate, and that’s how we met Eber Canelas of Canelas Construction,” Barbara continued. “From there, the whole project just snowballed.” Helping to usher the project along was Barbara’s brother, Bill Huntoon, a contractor who lives in El Segundo. “He is a craftsman and a perfectionist and has very kindly been our free consultant,” she said. Arthur also has experience with construction — he designed and sold kitchens in his native Holland before moving to the U.S. — so “between the two of them, no architect was needed.”
vious mustard color. The side yard to the left, once nothing but dirt, is now a patio with table, lounge chairs, fire pit and even a swing — allowing the Kroons to take full advantage of the shadiest section of the lot. The porch was redesigned as well. While the Craftsman columns and original windows remain, the porch itself was extended by nearly three feet, and tiled with dark gray slate. Once merely a way to access the house, it’s now a living space in its own right, with tables and chairs on either side where family and friends can gather (when it’s safe to do so) and enjoy the hustle and bustle of downtown in comfort. Work on the porch was completed in early March, and the Kroons celebrated with a party just weeks before COVID-19 spurred sheltering-in-place orders. “The last gathering we had . . . we had about 30 people over to christen the porch,” Barbara said. Remarkably, these changes haven’t altered the 1920s appeal of the exterior, which remains in harmony with the old-fashioned feel of Downtown Santa Paula. The real time traveling takes place inside.
CURB APPEAL
INTO THE GRAY
While the bedrooms and front living room remain untouched, the rest of the house got a significant update — including the front door. “I knew I wanted a red door no matter what,” said Barbara. That bright red contrasts beautifully with the butter yellow and creamy white paint of the house — a fresh, sunny change from the pre-
The modernization begins with the bathrooms. While their footprints remain small, fresh white paint, new fixtures and walk-in showers with glass doors have done a lot to update them for the 21st century. Mediterranean blue tiles in the showers bring a welcome pop of color. }}
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The Kroons relied on a grayscale palette to take the bathrooms, kitchen and family room from quaint arts-andcrafts to contemporary cool. This is felt most keenly in the kitchen, with its new quartz counters and white and gray cupboards replacing the dated ivory tile and brown cabinetry. Busting out the wall that separated kitchen and family room, the Kroons created a great room, opening things up and gaining a whole lot more space. Dual ovens, a large central island, a pantry with pull-out shelves and a separate bar have added functionality and ease. In PARTY PAD: Three decks, a hot tub, tables and a comfy sofa set before the beautiful stone fireplace . . . who wouldn’t want to hang out in this chic yet comfortable abode?
COOKING IN STYLE: The remodeled kitchen is on trend with new appliances, quartz countertops and a modern grayscale color scheme. addition, a newly constructed door in the ceiling has given them access to a large attic for storage. The family room enjoys plenty of light from two large windows. The classic red brick of the fireplace is now gray stack stone to complement the rest of the house. The Kroons are social people who, prior to the pandemic, entertained often. They anticipate getting a lot of use out of their larger, more conveniently designed kitchen. “I can have two lasagnas going at the same time,” Barbara says of her ovens. “I can’t wait!”
OUTDOORS REIMAGINED A sliding glass door on the east side of the family room leads into the
Kroons’ expansive backyard — which has received a dramatic facelift. Previously, the yard was largely taken up by an aboveground pool that had the appearance of in-ground thanks to a surrounding deck. With two children (daughters Ruby, now 31, and Kelly, 20), the pool initially saw plenty of use, but eventually fell out of fashion. The deck wood began to rot as well, and in 2008 Arthur drained the pool and demolished the whole thing. “There was always talk of doing something,” Barbara said. As the Kroons finally embarked on that “something,” they redesigned more than half the property. Today, there’s a two-level deck made of Brazilian ipe — a hardwood that’s naturally fire, bug and water resistant — leading to a beautiful new patio. The first landing (accessible from the sliding glass door) is a narrow deck with a set of table and chairs. A few steps down is the much larger deck, where chaise lounges and a very inviting whirlpool spa beckon. The brick walls surrounding the backyard have been topped with ipe fencing, making the entire area very private. Sandstone pavers were used to create a large patio at ground level. With cushy seating, a stack stone fireplace and a table that seats eight, it’s the perfect outdoor party pad. There’s even a pull-down projector screen on the side of the garage, for summer movie nights. When craving calm rather than company, a quiet spot behind the garage has been converted into a serene yoga garden. Unlike the remodeled interior, where cool colors rule, the exterior is all about warmth: sandstone, sienna, chocolate brown. Gravel planters sparsely filled with succulents and painted rocks (a talent daughter Kelly discovered during the pandemic) surround the decks. Statues, fountains Continued on page 18
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BUTTER YELLOW, creamy white and a bright red door: Despite the dramatic changes to the interior and backyard, this 1923 Craftsman hasn’t lost any of its historic charm. and colorful ceramic pots are tastefully arranged to capture the eye, soften, bring in a touch of vibrancy. Together with the surrounding hardscape, these elements create a space that is both comfortable and quietly elegant.
“WE WOKE UP TO A DREAM” No one anticipated that the extensive remodel would coincide in part with COVID-19. Barbara and Arthur were lucky enough to work from home, but found being confined to a house under construction ZEN ZONE: When tranquility is called for, this spot behind the garage is perfect for far from pleasant. Eating out of the microwave and yoga, meditation or just quiet contemplation. using a bathroom sink as a kitchen sink was a pain. There was the constant cacophony of sawing, hammering and power tools, with sawdust and debris everyjoy, and have added over 800 square feet of usable space, plus an addiwhere — although Barbara gives props to the construction team. tional 1,500 square feet of storage. “[Canelas] has been so great and cooperative and respectful of our “It’s been a nightmare,” Barbara admitted. “But we woke up to a space during the quarantine,” she said. “And we are all proud of the dream.” v job he and his team have done. He has been a real professional.” Now that the work is done, the Kroons’ beautiful new kitchen, gorgeous outdoor spaces and contemporary comforts are a continual
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NEIGHBORS TO T FINE WINES AND BEERS A SHORT DRIVE UP THE 101.
S
BY KAREN LINDELL
anta Barbara County’s geography is weird. Which is probably why its wines taste so wonderful. The region’s mountains run east to west rather than north to south, with valleys that open to the ocean, allowing fog and ocean breezes to flow in to create a moderate climate. The Mediterranean weather patterns, combined with a variety of soils and other grape-happy environmental conditions, turn the area into a mini wineproducing realm. According to the Santa Barbara County Vintners Association, the county’s 200-plus wineries grow more than 50 varieties of grapes, with six federally recognized wine WINEMAKER Matt Brady and hospitality director Lily Hays pour out SAMsARA’s limited release wines, regions known as American Viticultural many of which come from vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills VTA. Photo courtesy of Nick P. Ouellette Photography Areas (AVAs): the Santa Maria Valley, Santa Ynez Valley, Happy Canyon, Ballard GOLETA Canyon, Los Olivos District and Sta. Rita Hills. (The appellation was once “Santa Rita Hills,” but the Viña Santa Rita SAMsARA Wine Co. 6485 Calle Real, Suite E, Goleta winery in Chile objected, so the name was abbreviated.) Even though these AVAs are north of Santa Barbara, you don’t 805.845-8001 have to drive all the way up to Solvang or the Santa Ynez Valley to www.samsarawine.com sample the fruits of their vines. And you aren’t limited to the fun and The people and place: “Samsara” is a Sanskrit word that refers to the funky but parking-challenged Funk Zone in Santa Barbara, either cycle of death and rebirth. “It’s a homage to the grapevines, and how they (although it’s a fine spot to hang out for a concentrated slew of wineries go dormant, then come back to life year after year,” said Lily Hays, the and breweries). winery’s director of hospitality and education. A few lesser-known wineries are just a short drive (or train ride) up Owners Joan and Dave Szkutak purchased the SAMsARA label from the coast in Summerland, Montecito and Goleta . . . all of which are closer Chad Melville of Melville Winery in 2016 and moved the winery and and less crowded than the Santa Ynez Valley. And although Carpinteria tasting room from Lompoc to Goleta, creating the city’s first winery. has yet to join the winery scene, the laid-back beach oasis midway between Winemaker Matt Brady continues to focus on limited releases of pinot the Santa Barbara-Ventura county line boasts several notable breweries, so noir, syrah, grenache, chardonnay and rosé from vineyards mainly in the we’ve added a few of those as well. Sta. Rita Hills VTA. Although these tasting rooms to the north had to close during the iniThe vibe: Visitors have a chance to meet the owners and staff, who tial coronavirus shutdown, most have reopened for outdoor service, with are “all integrated into the winemaking process,” Hays said. “We’re very altered rules and routines including required face masks for guests and passionate about the brand, and really want people to understand why the employees, smaller numbers of visitors at a time, socially distanced tables wines taste like they do.” (no standing around a bar) and reservations required in some cases. Visitors who come during harvest time can watch the winemaking But they all welcome out-of-town visitors as well as residents, and are process. “Sometimes we put guests to work, throwing them into a bin to eager to share their locally made potables with the wider world. stomp grapes,” Hays said.
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Folded Hills grows Rhône varietal grapes. Its organic and vegan wines were until this summer created by winemaker Angela Osborne, who followed a biodynamic, lunar farming calendar and sustainable harvesting practices. Folded Hills wines are “farm to bottle,” with native yeasts, no residual sugars and minimal sulfites. (Michael Brughelli has taken over winemaking duties from Osborne, who intends to focus on her own brand, A Tribute to Grace.) The vibe: Kim Busch said the Montecito tasting room “brings the flavor of the ranch into the little seaside town,” with a video that shows images of the estate and its vineyards. Maria Javier, tasting room manager, said the venue caters to tourists from local hotels like the Montecito Inn across the street, as well as visitors from counties south. The wines: “Two words are always used with our wine: ‘smooth’ and ‘clean,’” Javier said. The winery is known for its awardwinning Lilly Rosé (named after ancestor Lilly Anheuser Busch, wife of Adolphus Busch). Folded Hills’ Grant Grenache is a popular choice for newbie wine drinkers. The brand’s reserve label wines are produced in small quantities and sell quickly. The eats: Charcuterie boards are available. The extras: Private parking is available at the tasting room. The Folded Hills Ranch features animals on site including Clydesdale THE STYLISH tasing room at Folded Hills in Montecito. horses. Photo courtesy of Folded Hills Winery
Due to coronavirus restrictions, all tastings are on the site’s back patio. The wines: “Our ethos is a more natural winemaking approach — hands off, with native yeast, whole-cluster fermentation and long maceration,” Hays said. Now that Santa Barbara County is gaining more popularity as a wine-growing area, with many new winemakers, she said, “we are able to break out of the pinot noir/chardonnay zone and see more varietals.” She highly recommends the winery’s syrahs. The eats: The winery doesn’t serve food, but food trucks are usually nearby on weekends. The extras: The winery also offers virtual online tastings (people have the wine shipped to them, then taste it via a Zoom meeting with the winemakers and staff); and a tasting room in Los Olivos.
MONTECITO
SUMMERLAND
Folded Hills Montecito Tasting Room 1294 Coast Village Road, Montecito (across from the Montecito Inn) 805.694.8086 www.foldedhills.com The people and place: The Folded Hills Montecito Tasting Room, the only wine-tasting room in Montecito, serves wines from the Folded Hills Ranch, Winery and Farmstead up the coast. The winery was founded by Kim and Andrew Busch (Andrew is a scion of the founders of the Anheuser-Busch brewing company in St. Louis). They came from St. Louis to Santa Barbara in the early 2000s when Andrew fell in love with the area while playing for the USA polo team. After buying the Folded Hills Ranch (the name comes from the nearby hills that look like they fold upon each other), where they also grow organic crops, they started growing grapes and opened the winery in 2017.
Summerland Winery 2330 Lillie Ave., Summerland 805.565.WINE (9463) summerlandwine.com The people and place: Founded by Turkish native Nebil “Bilo” Zarif in the early 2000s, the boutique winery, named best Santa Barbara County winery by the Santa Barbara Independent in 2016, works with numerous vineyards throughout the area including the Theresa-Noelle, Bien Nacido, Solomon Hills and Paradise Road vineyards. It was bought by Terravant Wine Company (now Summerland Wines) in 2019. The vibe: An outdoor porch and patio just blocks from the ocean creates a quintessential beachy small-town atmosphere. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the wines. The wines: The winery is known for its pinot noir, including the awardContinued on page 25
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A Tale of Two Sisters
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I loved this book, the way it is written and, overall the intimate and “real” peek into the ups and downs of sisterhood. The stories of their childhood are hilarious, WHAT a childhood.
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Lila’s writing reads like a movie. I could see the love she and her sister had for one another from the first page to the last. An authentic look at what a life well lived should look like for all of us. Lila Glasoe Francese tells the story of her relationship with her sister, Carolyn, in an honest, funny, and at times painful story.
VENTURA URGENT CARE
A beautifully written memoir highlighting all the feelings associated with loving someone while they are actively dying. The memories of the past, the denial, the frustration, the anger, the hope; it’s all here.
AND FAMILY PRACTICE CENTER
This book is a heart wrenching story of a sisters bond through a devastating cancer diagnosis. There’s a touch of humor and lightness that guides the reader to laugh along with the sadness. It keeps the reader very engaged. A portion of the book proceeds go to the Carolyn Glasoe Bailey Foundation.
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winning 2013 Theresa Noelle Proprietor’s Reserve Pinot Noir and 2013 Bien Nacido Pinot Noir. Visitors also recommend the syrah and chardonnay. The eats: Locally made snacks are available. The extras: The dog-friendly winery welcomes people’s pooches, too.
CARPINTERIA Island Brewing Company 5049 Sixth St., Carpinteria 805.745.8272 www.islandbrewingcompany.com The people and place: Owner Paul Wright, who used to live in Marin County, was an award-winning home brewer who 20 years ago decided to leave the insurance business to open a brewery. He started looking in Santa Barbara County (his daughters went to UCSB) and settled on a spot in the warehouse west end of Carpinteria facing the ocean.
available, and encourages people to bring food from local restaurants. The extras: Patrons praise the views of the ocean, sunsets and Channel Islands (hence the brewery’s name), plus easy access: Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner stops in Carpinteria, so people from Ventura County can take the train; the brewery is a short walk away. v
BEERS BEYOND THE FUNK ZONE Beyond Santa Barbara’s popular downtown Funk Zone, Goleta and Carpinteria are also home to a burgeoning coastal brewery scene. Here are a few to check out:
brewLAB
4191 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria 805.295.7617 brewlabcraft.com Uses organic grains and locally sourced herbs, flowers, fruits and vegetables.
CAPTAIN FATTY’S BREWERY
6489 Calle Real, Goleta 805.364-2968 www.captainfattys.com
Has 16 rotating taps to offer limited-batch beers.
DRAUGHTSMEN ALEWORKS 53 Santa Felicia Drive, Goleta 805.387.2577 www.draughtsmenaleworks.com Beer styles from around the world.
HOLLISTER BREWING COMPANY “Our goal was always to be a local brewery,” Wright said. “We distribute from Ventura up to Goleta and that’s about it, plus Cold Spring Tavern, and we’ve developed a relationship with Amtrak, so our Hopliner IPA is on the [Pacific] Surfliner.” The vibe: Wright describes the brewery’s beachtown-casual tasting area, which is open daily, as “a meeting place for locals,” but one that also draws out-of-town visitors and tourists who visit Carpinteria State Beach across the street, along with campers and bicyclists. Families are welcome — a children’s room includes a chalkboard wall and toys (it’s closed under coronavirus regulations, but kids can still visit if they sit with their parents). The beers: Favorites include the “fruity and citrusy” Paradise Pale Ale and Avocado Honey Ale, which is slightly sweet and contains avocado honey (not actual avocados) from local orchards. The eats: The brewery doesn’t serve food, but often makes food trucks
6980 Marketplace Drive, Goleta 805.968.2810 www.hollisterbrewco.com Brewpub that also serves food.
M. SPECIAL BREWING COMPANY 6860 Cortona Drive, Building C, Goleta 805.968.6500 www.mspecialbrewco.com
Also offers card and board games, and sometimes food trucks.
SANTA BARBARA CIDER CO. 325 Rutherford Drive, Suite D, Goleta 805.695-2457 www.sbcider.com
Offering hard ciders and special deals for InCider Club members.
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Please“2nd check this proof indicate corrections clearly. You a “1st Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st o d indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, Proof”, and over “Finalcarefully Proof”. and If we receiveallno proof after the 1st or will 2ndhave Proofs, ADProof”, WILL“2nd RUN If this youratapproval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF ISSUE: (APPROVED)” box, date and 2020 sign at the bottom. l on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box,proof date meets and sign the bottom. ISSUE SEPTEMBER
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A LANDSCAPE FOR A EMBRACING THE EBB AND FLOW OF TIME IN AN OXNARD MEADOW.
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journey to England provided inspiration for an Oxnard family to replace their backyard lawn with a more natural and seasonal meadowstyle garden. Catherine Lewis and her husband Wayne joined a garden tour with the Pacific Horticulture Society during 2018. It became their No. 1 bucket list goal to replace their turf lawn with a meadow, and they are now realizing it. The tour called “Chelsea and the English Gardens of the Bohemians” featured lavish gardens that included meadow areas where plants are free to follow their natural cycles of bloom and decay, and also attract abundant wildlife. Meadow gardens are also becoming a growing trend among people seeking a more environmentally conscious alternative to turf lawns and more formal gardens. In addition to suburban backyards, they’re also popping up in more urbanized areas, as city dwellers seek a greater connection to nature in their everyday lives. Common features of meadow gardens include the planting of mostly native species, walking paths, perennial grasses and wildflowers that attract pollinators. They can thrive in areas where the soil is poor, and use far less water than other types of gardens. Lewis says she was enthralled with the different approach to gardening she learned about in England compared with what she was accustomed to seeing in California. “I think Britain is a lot more proactive in being wild. They’re going from less formal to more natural things. We didn’t know the possibilities, and once we saw a meadow we realized it was possible,” said Lewis. “We weren’t really aware of how there could be as much green, and as much support for butterflies, pollinators and songbirds.” They were joined on the trip to England by their gardener friend Richard Sanders, who owns a business called Sanders Landscape and Design. Lewis had admired his gardening, and what she describes as his “zen” temperament for some time. She was thrilled to bring Sanders on board to help realize their 8
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ABOUT TOWN
R ALL SEASONS
CACOPHONY OF COLOR: When in full bloom, the Lewis’ meadow is a multidimensional, multispectral vision with yellow, orange and pink coneflowers, verbena, hummingbird sage and other colorful wildflowers.
dream project. “Once we saw a meadow we realized it was possible, but not with our limited expertise. An enthusiasm for gardening doesn’t always bring you success,” said Lewis. “So he became our designer and my mentor. I’m the worker bee.” They discussed the potential challenges and the best plants for the particular climate. “He seeded based on what would flourish and bring pollinators to the table,” said Lewis. “When the seeds and the grasses started to come in, it was just eye-poppingly amazing.” Sanders says the garden they were inspired to create in Oxnard is much different than the lawns and desert cactus displays that are prevalent in the city. “Meadows and most of the gardens I work on take some getting used to, because they do go through different phases. Most American sensibilities about a garden are much tidier and people want
them to be always at their peak, or always blooming or always green. A meadow is more how nature grows. It has seasons and cycles, and it’s not tidy,” said Sanders. “There are always butterflies and birds. There’s a lot to grab your attention.” He says creating a meadow garden has several benefits over lawns and other types of landscaping. “To me it’s much more interesting because it’s a complex system because of the variety. It will change over time as you get volunteers of different plants popping up in different areas. So it’s a changing, evolving landscape rather than something that’s static. There’s nothing more static than a lawn.” According to Lewis, the yard has always posed landscaping challenges. It’s on an unusual, triangle-shaped lot on a third of an acre, drier and shadier than those of their neighbors. They previously tried to maintain the lawn but grew frustrated during years of drought. The transformation began in the autumn of 2018, after the Lewises returned from that inspirational trip to England. They first planted a purple flowering redbud tree to entice songbirds. Next the lawn was removed. They then contoured the yard without using any amendContinued on page 31
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The Care You Need Shouldn’t Wait
We’re Always Here For You For over 100 years, Community Memorial Health System has been taking care of this community. Now more than ever, we want you to know it’s SAFE to rely on the care you’ve always counted on.
Emergency Care
Our emergency departments at Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) in Ventura and Ojai Valley Community Hospital (OVCH) are OPEN, safe and ready to care for ALL your needs.
A Procedure, Treatment or Test
Our enhanced screening and cleanliness policies help to ensure your safety at all our hospitals and outpatient facilities.
Surgery and a Safe Place to Recover
Advanced sterilization technology, reinforced safety protocols and specialized patient monitoring systems mean you can be confident in your safety at CMH and OVCH.
To Learn More About Our Enhanced Safety and Cleanliness Protocols, Visit CMHSHealth.org
805/948-5011 | cmhshealth.org
ments, which can be used to modify soil conditions. They created rock pathways and began planting other species such as ruby grass, hummingbird sage, purple moor grass and California poppies. They were surprised by unusually heavy rains that winter, which threatened to turn their California meadow into an Irish bog. Instead, the storms resulted in an explosion of red and orange blooms. By May 2019, they were mesmerized by that year’s unusually heavy display of painted lady butterflies that stopped off in the garden. They also witnessed the return of monarch butterflies. Five hummingbird feeders in the yard were increasingly ignored by the tiny and colorful birds, which instead chose from a wider variety of food sources such as lupines and California bluebells. Lewis says the seasonal changes they witnessed due to the more wild gardening approach are a big part of its charm. “It requires a tolerance for understanding that it’s seasonal. So there’s going to be decline
and then there’s going to be renewal, which makes the reward even sweeter,” said Lewis. While there are challenges posed by creating a meadow-style garden, Lewis says it’s not as hard or expensive to create as people might expect. “Look at it as a long term process, not instantaneous, like you click your fingers and it appears,” said Lewis. “A lot of friends who don’t garden say ‘Look at all the work.’ But people go to the gym and don’t think of it as work. When you’re out in the yard there’s just that peace and solitude of working in the earth.” Lewis says they enjoy their garden every day and it brings them a sense of peace and tranquility. “To be out in it is truly restorative,” said Lewis. “There’s something to be said for that zen moment when you clear your head and you’re just out listening to those sounds of birds, looking at the beauty of it, and deciding what to edit and what to encourage and cultivate and nurture more of next year, to get an even better result.” v
TOP RIGHT: A bird bath stands at the ready for the hummingbirds that are drawn to the meadow’s lupine, California bluebell and other nectar-providing plants. ABOVE: A monarch butterfly alights on purple verbena.
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COUNTY of VENTURA
COVID-19 TESTING
The County of Ventura has expanded free COVID-19 testing throughout the county for residents who have the slightest suspicion of having COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with it. You don’t need to have health insurance, but may be asked for it if you do. Symptoms of COVID-19 can be: • Cough or shortness of breath • OR other symptoms: fever greater than 100.4°F, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell
Close contact means: • Sharing a home • Being closer than 6 feet for more than 10 minutes without wearing a mask • Having contact with the bodily fluids (spit, blood) of the sick person through coughing, sneezing, sharing utensils
OPTUMSERVE STATE LOCATION
COVID-19 testing for all community members. Please register by calling or registering online. Online: www.lhi.care/covidtesting • Phone: 1-888-634-1123 • Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday 8am – 8pm
Thousand Oaks Library – Newbury Park Branch – 2331 Borchard Road, Newbury Park, CA 91320
DRIVE-UP TESTING SITES
Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday 10am – 7pm No appointment or insurance is needed Moorpark College
7075 Campus Rd., Moorpark, CA 93021
Ford Dealership
128 S. Hallock Dr., Santa Paula, CA 93060
Oxnard College (Weekend Hours: Friday–Tuesday 10am – 7pm) 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard, CA 93033
WALK-UP TESTING SITE No appointment or insurance is needed Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday 9am – 6pm
Ventura County Fairgrounds 10 W. Harbor Blvd in Ventura Enter at Gate 2
VENTURA COUNTY URGENT CARE LOCATIONS For pre-screening and appointment, call the hotline at 805-652-7660.
OXNARD Las Islas Family Medical Group South
VENTURA Academic Family Medicine Center
Magnolia Family Medical Center
West Ventura Medical Clinic
325 West Channel Islands Blvd., Oxnard, 93033 Open 7 days/week from 9am - 5pm 2240 E. Gonzales Rd., Oxnard, 93036 Monday–Friday 8:30am - 5pm
300 Hillmont Ave., Bldg. 340, Ventura, 93003 Monday–Saturday 9am - 4pm 133 W. Santa Clara St., Ventura, 93001 Open 7 days/week from 9am – 5pm
SANTA CLARA RIVER VALLEY Fillmore Family Medical Group 828 W. Ventura St., Fillmore, 93015 Monday–Friday 9am – 5pm
EAST COUNTY Conejo Valley Family Medical Group 125 W. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite 200 Thousand Oaks, 91360 Open 7 days/week from 9:15am - 4:30pm
Sierra Vista Family Medical Clinic
1227 East Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley, 93065 Monday–Friday 9am - 5pm and Saturday and Sunday 9am – 2pm
CONVERSATION
CARVING OUT A LIFE Talking shop with Santa Paula woodworker Mike Adams
M
BY NANCY D. LACKEY SHAFFER PHOTOS BY LUIS CHAVEZ
ike Adams of Santa Paula Craftsman did something many of us only dream about: He left his corporate job to follow his creative passion. The one-time database administrator and private investigator exchanged his briefcase for a toolbox, his desk for a workbench and began a new career as a woodworker. Now he makes furniture, restores old windows and (sometimes) does handyman projects . . . and couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be happier. He spoke with Ventana Monthly about his decision to leave the corporate world, making art that can be used, the value of work-life balance and more. When did you first start doing woodwork? My father was a machinist, and he allowed me to use his home workshop tools and took me to work on Saturdays. My paternal grandfather was a maintenance worker, my maternal grandfather was a die sinker machinist, his father was also a machinist, so fabricating and fixing things is multi-generational. When my father retired after a lifetime of steel parts machining and design, he began wood craft. His machining process is much more precise then mine, and he has more patience. One brother is also a machinist, and the other builds and fits orthotics. I was always modifying and fixing my bicycles and toys, and in high school, back when schools had shop classes, I took wood, metal, electrical, auto, drafting and architectural courses. Continued on page 36
8 BUSINESS AT HAND: Mike Adams at work in his Santa Paula shop, where he designs and builds his handmade furniture.
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AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom.
LAST YEAR OVER 74,000 CALIFORNIANS CLEARED MORE THAN 80,000 POUNDS OF TRASH AND RECYCLABLES FROM OUR STATE’S BEACHES AND WATERWAYS – ALL IN A MATTER OF HOURS.
IS
Your Donations Save Lives!
Great Selection of Merchandise
S
A VE
R TI M
S!
OU
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• Jewelry • Furniture • DVDs • Clothing • Books • CDs
S LIVE
SEEKING IN-STORE VOLUNTEERS • Sorting • • Selling • • Pricing • • Merchandising •
S.P.A.R.C. Second Chance Store 374 E. Main St., Ventura • 805-648-8915 Monday - Saturday 10am-6pm
Sunday 12pm-5pm
Check our Facebook page for adoption dates and locations. F I N E
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All Proceeds Go To: Ad Executive: Warren Barret Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st www.santapaulaarc.org AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom.
Client: Cash For Cars
NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP
W
e’re staying close to home these days, but we’re all connected from the mountains to the ocean. This year, California Coastal Cleanup Day will become Coastal Cleanup Month. Every Saturday in September, grab your family and housemates to clean up your street, park, local shoreline, or anywhere else that makes up your happy place. Remember, beach cleanups start at our own front doors. Trash can travel through storm drains, creeks, and rivers to become beach and ocean pollution.
Download and use the Clean Swell data collection app to record and report your cleanup.
For more information & guidance visit:
Thank you to our sponsors!
Before heading out check Ventura County Health and Safety Guidelines:
www.VCCoastCleanup.org/ get-involved/
www.venturacountyrecovers.org
u Harrison Industries u Ventura Breeze u Public Works Water & Sanitation
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Ventura County Annual Coastal Cleanup Day
@vccoastcleanupday
Date: _____________
CASH FOR CARS
Signature: _________
LOCAL BUYER LOOKING FOR CLASSICS, COLLECTIONS, LATE MODEL, ESTATES RUNNING OR NOT
CALL JIMMY ANYTIME 805-705-4674 ESTIMATES BY PHONE
ventana | SEPTEMBER 2020
NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF
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AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom.
F I N E
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Client: Cypress Place
ISSUE: SEPTEMBER 2020
For help with your census call 805-644-5428 or email info@diversitycollective.org Ad Executive: Barbara Kroon
AD PROOF (805) 648-2244
Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: SEPTEMBER 2020
This proof is to check for accuracy and is not intended to show quality of reproduction.
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Date: _______________________________ Signature: ___________________________
KEEP LIVING YOUR GOOD LIFE. Like the city it thrives in, Cypress Place has a naturally vibrant vibe. Feel the welcoming spirit of Ventura’s most respected resort-style senior living community. Call 805-835-4072 to schedule a visit.
Virtual Tours Available
Call To Schedule Today! 1200/1220 Cypress Point Lane • Ventura, CA 93003 • CypressPlaceSeniorLiving.com SEPTEMBER 2020 |
NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF
#567609978 License #565801008
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Date: _______________________________
I slowly grew my tool collection after I got married and started building more and more complex furniture. I made some hideous and ill-designed furniture those first few years.
“It’s satisfying to make a bench or table for someone and see it years later, scratched and dented, used and enjoyed.”
My understanding is that you were in a completely different line of work before you opened Santa Paula Craftsman. What were you doing before? My wife and I always lived in old houses, so I always had a “real” job during the week and a woodworking and home improvement job on the weekends. I worked for the County of Ventura for 10 years as database A month into unemadministrator, and then I founded and ployment, I had the opporran a background check and private tunity to buy a turnkey investigation company for the next 20. handyman business at a The first 15 had minimal growth, but MAKING GOOD TIME: Adams’ Greene & Greene-inspired pendulum bargain price, giving me in the last five years as CEO we had a clock in walnut, ebony and art glass. a customer base, instant 30-fold increase in business. cash flow and zero business I was in my mid-50s, working debt. Because I had all this woodworking equipment, my partner Lance crazy hours and weekends, traveling, totally burned out, no longer Higgins and I morphed into a vintage door and window restoration and able to maintain the pace, and taking out the frustration on my famfabrication company (WoodWindowDoctor.com) that currently pays the ily. My doctor and therapist both told me that workplace stress was bills while I grow Santa Paula Craftsman to a level that can support my literally killing me and that I would be dead or stroked in six months family. if I didn’t change my environment. My sons and wife were very supFurniture making has always been my dream, and for me it is a portive and she said, “I don’t care about the money. I just want us to very solo craft. I have a collaborative relationship with other artists, but be happy and grow old together.” A few months later my partners made the decision for me and we parted ways, but my early exit came I’m happiest and most productive working by myself. at a significant cost. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced starting It’s not where most people want to be at that age, unemployed your business? with minimal savings, but the kids had moved out and we were ready I was very fortunate in that I already had decades of experience to simplify and downsize. We sold our big Victorian and bought a tiny running a business. I learned the hard way that cash flow is your lifebungalow up the street. Life is much simpler. blood. Keep overhead low. Avoid leasing or financing. Don’t be afraid to tell a customer “No.” Specialize in something so you can charge What inspired you to start this business? more. Have adequate insurance. I had built up an impressive amount of woodworking tools and equipment over the last three decades, had completed some well-paying Do you have a particular style that you specialize in? furniture commissions, and always dreamed of being in the wood shop all day every day. I was always drawn to the 1900s craftsman style. Then I saw a Greene I didn’t want to go back to the corporate life. So in early 2018, & Greene furniture coffee table book and was blown away. My wife and I newly unemployed, I fleshed out the Santa Paula Craftsman’s busitook a tour of the Gamble House in Pasadena, and I was hooked. ness plan and assumed I would starve financially for the next year I don’t make art pieces to be hung on a wall or stored under glass. while I did so. I relied on local mentors, Ventura’s Seana-Marie Sesma I want it to be used. My company tagline is “Art For Your Daily Life.” and Santa Paula’s Chris Wilson, who gave me the self confidence and It’s satisfying to make a bench or table for someone and see it years encouragement to move forward. later, scratched and dented, used and enjoyed. 8
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How do you find your clientele? Is it mainly individuals or large corporations? It used to be strictly referrals, but now that I have a commercial shop on a busy road, and Etsy and Yelp, I get walkins and phone inquiries. Have you worked on any projects that members of the public have seen — like at an art gallery, tables in a local restaurant, etc.? Yes. A local artist, Susan Petty, was on the Community Memorial Hospital expansion’s art committee and asked me to make a base for Cheryl Ann Thomas’ ceramic art. It ended up being a massive solid maple base topped by a large plexiTOOLS OF THE TRADE: Adams’ workshop in Santa Paula. glass cube and is currently located in the emergency room lobby. Where do you find your greatest inspirations and influences? What Last fall I was part of a special exhibit, Beyond Function: Fiber, Wood informs your work? and Clay, with ceramicist Nate Pidduck and tapestry weaver Michael In the most unlikely places. Thrift store furniture, museums, old home Rohde at the Santa Paula Art Museum. features, ancient joinery and mid-century antiques. My wife is a ceramic artist, painter and sculptor, and she has a great eye for style. It helps to What are some of the more notable projects you’ve worked on? have a critic, and she is always right. Well, most of the time. My Gamble House entry table in mahogany, ebony and cherry sat in our dining room for years, and the Greene Brothers’ design and proporWhat’s next for Santa Paula Craftsman? tions are timeless. I love this table, but it’s too large for the little bungalow The transition from part-time to full-time furniture making. The techwe now live in, so I have to sell it. Someone is going to end up getting a nical skills, workshop and equipment are in place, I have three active comtreasure. missions in the pipeline, there’s a big list of future projects in my files, and The Greene & Greene-inspired tall pendulum clock in book-matched I have a cache of long, wide, beautiful 50-year-old Honduran mahogany walnut, ebony and art glass took over two years to make. It’s my own ready to be made into furniture. design, and I had never made a clock case before. It’s fully functional, so I’m quite proud of that one. Any words of wisdom to share? I used to think that a high salary, the CEO job title, and money was Any projects that were particularly difficult? Or particularly a sign of “success.” My career transition has forced me to reevaluate the rewarding? work-life balance. Why am I working so hard? What am I trying to accomThe Saw Table + Table Saw project is very unique and a techniplish in life? How is my career affecting my family? My kids never cared cal accomplishment. I found a rusted 32-inch industrial saw blade in an how much money I made, but they do remember our weekend camping Oregon hardware store and embedded the blade into a round, scallopedged solid walnut top using a CNC program. The three curved legs mimic and lazy days at the beach, and I wish I had made more time for them. I’m not rich by society’s standards, but I have enough, and I’m moving the shape of the blade teeth. I kept the rusted patina on the blade. closer to doing what I truly love each and every day. v My latest work, the “TriQuatroMesa” table in mahogany, has a square top and inverted triangle hairpin legs. There were technical challenges of joining the base’s 14 degree angles, so I finally decided to just build it, and it was everything I hoped it would be. Has your business changed during the pandemic? My shop is open to the public on Saturdays, so I stayed closed for most of the spring.
Santa Paula Craftsman 4137 Highway 150 (Ojai-Santa Paula Road) 805.279.7265 santapaulacraftsman@gmail.com santapaulacraftsman.com @santapaulacraftsman
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SHORT LIST
ONGOING
ALL EVENTS SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION DUE TO THE ONGOING COVID-19 PANDEMIC CARPOOL JAM CONCERTS
CARPOOL JAM CONCERTS
Ongoing | Oxnard Welcome to the new entertainment experience, all from the comfort and safety of your own vehicle. Sterling Venue Ventures has taken its famed concert series and brought it to the parking lot of the Oxnard Performing Arts and Convention Center, where every week audiences can drive in to enjoy an exciting lineup of music, comedy and more. Havana Nights takes place every Thursday, with live Latin music, a comedy showcase, a DJ and often a free salsa lesson. Sundays are all about reggae, with Urban Dread jamming with a changing lineup of local bands. Weekend performances feature tribute bands as well as legends of rock, blues and Americana. Don’t feel like driving? Check out live broadcasts from The Canyon in Agoura Hills: Metalachi (Sept. 10) and Hollywood U2 (Sept. 17) will be streaming this month. For full lineup, tickets and more information, visit wheremusicmeetsthesoul.com.
FRAGILE WATERS: PREDATOR OR PREY?
SEPT. 10 – DEC. 21
FRAGILE WATERS
Sept. 10 – Dec. 21 | Online This unique and slightly terrifying exhibit of photographs and original art will feature the Great White Shark, the much feared but little understood creature. As predators throughout the world’s oceans, these majestic sharks keep the populations of other animals in check. This exhibit aims to help guests better understand the important role that the maligned creature plays in keeping the ecosystem healthy. Working underwater and in submerged cages, photographer Ralph Clevenger was able to take the dramatic images presented in the exhibit and provide viewers with an up-close look of these magnificent creatures, while artist Kathy S. Copsey’s imaginative works give the animal a realistic, personal touch. For more information, visit www.cimmvc.org.
THE ROOMMATE + ONLINE PERFORMANCES AT NAMBA
SEPT. 18 – 20
VIRTUAL MOUNTAINFILM ON TOUR
Sept. 11 – 27 | Ventura/Online Sharon — a housewife, 50-something, recently divorced, anxious empty-nester — has some trepidation when she advertises for a roommate to share her large home in Iowa City. Her alarm increases when she discovers that her new roommate, Robyn, is a pot-smoking vegetarian lesbian from the Bronx who arrives with a box full of clay voodoo dolls. For a busy, idyllic time, the two women enjoy a friendship until their connection deepens into an attraction and Robyn must make a choice to keep them both safe. This production in conjunction with The Flying H Group Theatre will be live, while NAMBA Performing Arts simultaneously hosts online performances from renowned artists such as Robert Quindaro and Steve Aguilar. NAMBA Arts, 47 S. Oak St., Ventura. For more information, including tickets, visit www.nambaarts.com.
“STAND UP FOR KIDS” GALA: A VIRTUAL CELEBRATION
Sept. 12 | Online The Boys and Girls Club of the Conejo Valley have announced that the 2020 Annual Gala Celebration will be virtual and available for free to all families, community supporters, and volunteers to stream from the comfort of their own homes. This year’s gala will feature an inspirational 45-minute virtual program filled with stories of community strength and perseverance, beginning at 6 p.m., recognizing community heroes, supporters, corporate partners, parents, club members and staff. For more information, visit www.bgcconejo. org/gala/#about-the-gala.
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THE MYSTERIES OF ANTARCTICA Sept. 16 | Online
On the southern-most tip of the planet rests one of the world’s most massive and mysterious landmasses – the frozen realm of Antarctica. Teacher and environmental scientist Dr. Kathleen Roos, Ph.D, is driven by a love of science and the environment and has over 30 years of environmental experience across the globe. From the Atlantic to the Pacific coast of the U.S., to Russia, Thailand, Nepal, Iceland and the Pacific Islands, Dr. Roos has seen it all. At this virtual speaker series event hosted by the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, Dr. Roos will discuss the known and the unknown about the Earth’s most mysterious block of ice. Event begins at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.cimmvc.org.
VIRTUAL MOUNTAINFILM ON TOUR Sept. 18 – 20 | Online
The Ojai Valley Land Conservancy partners with Mountainfilm on Tour to keep the long-running annual event going by bringing the original films of the annual festival in Telluride, Colorado to a streaming device in your home. Guaranteed to be “cozy,” the virtual film festival features shorts and feature length documentaries and true tales of grit, perseverance and the great outdoors from the world over. To get the full festival experience, special dinner boxes have been curated by local chef Lorraine Lim Catering paired with Topa Topa Brewing Company ale for pickup ahead of showtime. Tickets: $25-35. For more information and to pre-order tickets, meals and raffle entries, visit www.ovlc.org.
POLITE CONVERSATIONS AND WINE Sept. 26 | Online
Camarillo Skyway Playhouse will stream this original play directed by Michael Perlmutter. Alice and Lisa are a young married couple ready to take the plunge into motherhood. Naturally, their own mothers will need to be told, and thus the coming together of the four wherein shenanigans may ensue. Written as a “memory play,” the scenarios skip through time as memories come flooding back of the night in question from different points of view. Details to be announced. For more information, visit and follow Camarillo Skyway Playhouse on Instagram @skywayplayhouse.
ON THE HORIZON HARVEST FESTIVAL ORIGINAL ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW
Oct. 2 – 4 | Ventura
Welcome fall in a unique setting bringing out the best for shopping and entertainment. Only handmade original works are permitted in this exclusive showcase that presents more than 24,000 creations. From stunning jewelry and clothing to purses, ceramics, woodwork, blown glass, gourmet sauces, photography, ornaments and more. Tickets: $4-7. Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura. For more information, visit www.harvestfestival.com.
The Rutledge Results Team
From the Eastside to the Westside, And the Hillside to the Seaside
LAURIE RUTLEDGE
DEREK BERTHOLD
CalRE#01156115
CalRE#02038434
805.340.4854
805.869.8005
Laurie4Homes@aol.com
Derek@VenturaRE.com
REALTOR® / B.S. Industrial Design
REALTOR / M.B.A. ®
www.VenturaRE.com
www.LaurieRutledge.com
Your REALTORS® Do Matter! Safety Matters when buying or selling. Count on us to help navigate you and your family through COVID-19 protocols
2651Cedar.com
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1692 Red Rock Avenue, Ventura
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We’re Experts in Virtual Showing & Selling | Call Us Today and “Let’s Keep you Moving”
The Groves At Riverbend Ranch
Close to Beaches & Downtown!
VENTURA | $815,000
VENTURA | $749,000 SALE PENDING 4br+3ba, approx. approx. 2,165sf, 2018 built, 9’ ceilings, front porch; on a coveted corner lot! Open concept Island Kitchen opens to living spaces.
7016 ETNA COURT, VENTURA
467 ALABAMA STREET, VENTURA
JU
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1706 EMERALD ISLE WAY, OXNARD
SO ST JU
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SO
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637 CREEKMONT COURT, VENTURA
LD
4+2.5, approx 2723sf, 2002 built and recently updated, 9’ ceilings and a front porch! Gorgeous open concept island kitchen opens to the great room and private yard. Hurry!
SOLD - $1,070,000
SOLD - $805,000
SOLD - $905,000
7016ETNA.COM
467ALABAMA.COM
1706EMERALDISLE.COM
135 DONNER AVENUE, VENTURA
1149 SUNNYCREST AVENUE, VENTURA
211 LONGRIDGE COURT, VENTURA
1147 WESTRIDGE DRIVE, VENTURA
! SO
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! LD SO
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SOLD - $1,075,500
ONE OF CLEARPOINT’S FIRST NEW BUILDS
SOLD - $770,000
SOLD - $925,000
SOLD - $967,500
SOLD - $1,334,000
135DONNER.COM
1149SUNNYCREST.COM
211LONGRIDGE.COM
SPECTACULAR CLEARPOINT POOL ESTATE
The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2020 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
ideal HOMES Ideal Homes
Your Guide To Luxury Living Throughout Ventura County
THE GROVES AT RIVERBEND RANCH
“I NEED IT SOLD YESTERDAY!” BETTER CALL BLAKE! , TOO! YOURS 50 L L E S N E CA 6-93 AND W AKE! 805-85 & D L O L S CALL B BETTER
SPARKLING OCEAN & ISLAND VIEWS! 1920’s Spanish style! Desired McElrea Heights! 3BR, 4BA house OR 2+2 with 1+1 legal duplex!
1510 Brodiea Avenue, Ventura
$1,298,400. Better Call Blake! 805-856-9350
SOLD PRICE: $1,200,000 Better Call Blake! 805-856-9350 , TOO! YOURS 50 L L E S N E CA 6-93 AND W AKE! 805-85 & D L O L S CALL B BETTER
8206 Silver Circle, Ventura
$550,000 Better Call Blake! 805-856-9350 , TOO! YOURS 50 L L E S E CAN 05-856-93 AND W 8 SOLD & CALL BLAKE! BETTER
3430 S J Street, Oxnard
Hurry ~ 2002 Built and model perfect 4+2.5 Craftsman at the Groves at Riverbend Ranch with a front porch, PorteCochere and more! Tucked away along the Santa Clara River Valley and its walking trails and nearby park, you’ll
enjoy living in one of the 1 6 9 2 R e d R o c k . c o m best climates Ventura today! 805.340.4854 has to offer! Featuring 9’ ceilings, open concept living space BEDROOMS: 4 and spectacular island kitchen. Presented by BATHROOMS: 2.5 Laurie Rutledge & Derek Berthold, Coldwell PRICE: $815,000 Banker Realty. Visit
FABULOUS OCEAN FRONTAGE
$399,900 Better Call Blake! 805-856-9350
3700 Dean Drive 408, Ventura
COLLEGE AREA COSMETIC FIXER!
O! URS, TO SELL YO 6-9350 N A C E AND W 805-85 SOLD & CALL BLAKE! R BETTE
Single-level Ranch style! Great area & schools! 4BR, 2BA, 1586+/- sq. ft. Price reflects condition!
$359,900
$609,000. Better Call Blake! 805-856-9350
Better Call Blake! 805-856-9350
HONESTY • INTEGRITY • COMMITMENT • RESULTS
CALL TODAY!
805-856-9350
www.BlakeMashburn.com Everest
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Restrictions apply, call for details. All info deemed accurate, but not guaranteed. If your property is currently listed for sale, please disregard our active marketing. DRE# 01065624.
ventana | SEPTEMBER 2020
Classic A-Frame on a quiet and exclusive street in desirable Mandalay Shores. Recently remodeled interior with permits, this three bedroom, two bath home on a wide lot has gorgeous views from the kitchen, great room, loft, master bedroom, and large outdoor decks. Oceanfront decks on both levels allow for spectacular views
and ever-changing sunsets. The home sits on a lot with more than 10,000 square feet. This provides 40 feet across of ocean frontage. There is a three-car detached garage, and a spacious private courtyard with a fire pit. It is rare to have this much private outdoor space in a home on the sand! A thoughtfully-designed renovation has updated
and upgraded this quintessential California beach house. Presented by Ariel Palmieri and Karen Stein, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury. 805-824-2004.
BEDROOMS:
3
BATHROOMS:
2
PRICE:
$2,995,000
AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. n the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: SEPTEMBER 2020
Only With Us
®
onlywithus.com
global reach brand heritage extraordinary marketing pr powerhouse proven results
Damian Bourguet
Channel Islands Brokerage 805.844.4949 | DRE: 0189027Island Packers Client: Ad Executive: Warren Barr Damian.Bourguet@sir.com Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2 AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. F I N E
L I V I N G
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C O U N T Y
m o n t h l y
+1.3%
+14.2%
Photo by Tim Hauf
➡
➡
Date: ___________ NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF VENTANA HOME SALES INDEX Experience Channel Islands National Park Date: _______________________________ NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF This proof is to check for accuracy and is not Signature: (805) HTO IKE • KAYA K648-2245 • CA M P • F UASAP L L DAY & H A L F DAY T R I P S _______ intended to show quality of reproduction. HOMES AVERAGE PRICE Signature: ___________________________ TO (805)SOLD 648-2245 ASAP
AUGUST 2019 VS. 2020 TREND
CAMARILLO
AUGUST ‘19 AUGUST ‘20
OXNARD
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE
111 $664,100
118 $741,800
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE
19 $544,200
10 $582,600
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE
FILLMORE
40 $790,500
69 $870,900
48 $748,900
53 $799,000
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE
19 $544,300
17 $685,700
173 $611,400
162 $660,100
87 $869,900
95 $846,700
106 $629,700
115 $698,600
Island Wildlife Cruises
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE THOUSAND OAKS
26 $851,800
22 $1,363,800
144 $693,600
118 $691,800
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE VENTURA
OXNARD
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE
31 $425,700
SIMI VALLEY
OJAI
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE
26 $382,300
SANTA PAULA
MOORPARK
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE
118 $691,800
PORT HUENEME
NEWBURY PARK
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE
AUGUST ‘20
144 $693,600
Photo by Steve Munch
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE
AUGUST ‘19
TOTAL # OF SALES
# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE
799
810
Ventana Monthly Home Sales Index is presented each month as part of the real estate section. The figures are sourced from sales reported to MLS for the period of 8/1/20 to 8/31/20. Ventana Monthly Home Sales Index © Ventana Monthly, 2020.
Authorized Concessionaire
ISLANDPACKERS.COM 805-642-1393 SEPTEMBER 2020 |
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Date: _________
What being voted BEST REALTORS means to us: We were happy and felt honored to be voted Best Realtors in Ventura County for both 2018 and 2019 VCReporter’s Best Of Ventura County Readers’ Poll. For us it was the culmination of our efforts over many years of hard work. Please visit www.vcreporter.com and vote for us for Best Realtor in the 2020 Best of Ventura County Readers’ Poll. Voting ends 9/30/20.
Tina Comden 805 218 5926
Experience: With over 65 years of experience, our team has
worked with many clients to help them realize their dream of buying or selling a home. We are pleased to say that our work speaks for itself - we deliver on our promise to make things happen.
Expertise: That experience has honed our understanding of how
best to approach each transaction with strategies that are honest and effective. We tell our clients what to expect and guide them through the process.
Bob Ridgway 805 320 1811
Effectiveness: Our desire to make things happen for our
clients is the result of years of experience in Ventura County. We have stayed in contact with many of our clients and are a resource for them through the years. In turn, they refer friends and family to us.
(805) 351-3500
crbrealestate.com CalDRE 01060428
Albert Barosso 805 901 3654
Welcome Home
Ariel Palmieri CalDRE #01501968
Karen Stein
CalDRE #01505059
Juliet Esquibias Linda Parizo
CalDRE #01831073
CalDRE #01509547
Exceptional Real Estate within Ventura, Santa Barbara & Los Angeles counties! www.ArielandKaren.com ArielandKaren.com
1435 Marine Way, Mandalay Shores
Fabulous ocean frontage from this stylishly-reimagined A-frame on a quiet and exclusive street. Recently remodeled interior with gorgeous views. 10,000 SF lot with 40 feet of ocean frontage on beach side. 3 bedrooms + 2 baths – 1,680 SF Listed for $2,995,000
www.LindaParizoHomes.com www.JulietReviews.com JulietReviews.com
1327 Seafarer Street, Ventura
Stunning and spacious Ventura Keys mainland home with incredible upgrades, exquisite decor, solar and a private and lush entertainers’ backyard. Two primary suites, one on the first level and one upstairs. 4 bedrooms + 3 baths – 2,642 SF Listed for $1,399,888
SOLD
NEW LISTING
2204 Spyglass Trail West, River Ridge
Live on the golf course! Lovely home on the 15th tee with expansive views from almost every room. Amenities include pool, spa and tennis. 3 bedrooms + 2.5 baths – 2,390 SF Listed for $799,000
SOLD
SOLD
2201 Broadmoor Court, Oxnard
Incredible location and oversized private lot overlooking a lush greenbelt. Open concept home with 2 fireplaces and entertainers’ kitchen. Downstairs bedroom and bathroom. Large upstairs bonus room too! 4 bed + 3 baths – 3,005 SF Listed & Sold for $899,000
SOLD
2246 Bermuda Dunes Place, Oxnard
Rarely available single-story home overlooking the River Ridge Golf Course in a prestigious gated community. Features include gorgeous flooring, upgraded appliances, custom cabinetry, stone counters, and a lovely yard. 2 bed + 2 baths + den – 1,546 SF Listed for $649,000 Sold for $660,000
5307 Driftwood Street, Mandalay Shores
Industrial chic meets sustainable modern elegance in this one of a kind townhome. Low HOA fee, no Mello Roos, and ocean views from top level. Private outdoor space including patio and balconies. Owned solar! 3 bedrooms + 3 baths – 1,400 SF Listed for $849,000
1130 Capri Way, Mandalay Shores
Across the street from the sand! Fantastic location with large beach view patio, plus a spacious deck. 5 bed + 3 baths – 2,511 SF Listed for $1,649,000 Sold for $1,600,000
SOLD
628 Mustang Street, Camarillo
Stylish Springville Townhome loaded with upgrades. Firstfloor bedroom with en suite bathroom with walk-in shower. Exquisite porcelain tile floors throughout, gourmet kitchen with upgraded stainless-steel appliances with elegant cabinets. 4 bed + 4 baths – 1,927 SF Listed for $615,000 Sold for $610,000
1931 Topaz Street, Ventura
East Ventura townhome with spacious loft. Remodeled kitchen, gorgeous flooring, smooth ceilings and new windows. Light-filled home with views of greenbelt and river trail. 3 bed + 3 baths – 1,959 SF Listed for $519,000 Sold for $533,000
(805) 746-2070 (805) 824-2004 (805) 312-4654 (805) 616-4040 Ariel Palmieri
Karen Stein
Linda Parizo
Juliet Esquibias
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805.642.5500 All of our custom designs have been made from 100% recycled gold for more than 40 years. Respect for the Earth is not a new idea at Lynnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.
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