monthlyFINE LIVING IN VENTURA COUNTY SEPTEMBER 2022 SOUTHWEST SPIRIT RESTORED VENTURA BOTANICAL GARDENS AMONG THE OAKS
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Editor’s NotE 6 Welcoming Fall
CovEr story 14 Come Out and Play!
About towN 23 Burned But Not Bowed
The past, present and future of the Ventura Botanical Gardens.
VOL.16 NO. 7 14FEATURES
CoNvErsAtioN 33 “A Community Garden for All of Ventura County”
Photo by Viktor Budnik
The Ventura Family Robinson rebuilds.
4 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022
CONTENTS
IN HEIGHTSTHE COMMUNITYDEPARTMENTS 8 Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme; The Turtle Conservancy SHORT LIST 42 A preview of coming attractions SEPTEMBER 2022
The great outdoors beckon from a historic home in Santa Paula’s Oaks neighborhood.
BUDNIKVIKTORBYPHOTO
COVER STORY: Melanie and Mike Binsley enjoy a glass of wine in front of their home in The Oaks, Santa Paula.
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PRESIDENT Steve Strickbine VICE PRESIDENT Michael Hiatt
WELCOMING FALL
The Ventura Botanical Gardens was also scathed by that destructive inferno. “Virtually every plant was impacted in some way by the fire,” recalls Tracy Long, who serves on the board of directors. And yet, as she and others deeply involved with the gardens can attest, VBG has come back stronger and more beautiful than ever. Several of them spoke about the history of the gardens, the recovery and restoration efforts, the ambitious plans for the future and more in Conversation.
The
heat and humidity that have made the last few weeks so uncomfortable finally seem to be abating. And while raindrops may or may not fall this weekend, I’m grateful for lower temperatures, the approach of autumn — always my favorite season — and the inspiring stories of our Fall Home and Garden issue.
– Nancy D. Lackey nancy@ventanamonthly.comShaffer
NOTE EDITOR IN CHIEF Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer CONTRIBUTORS Viktor Budnik Mike Nelson GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Nathalie Proulx ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Zac Reynolds ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Barbara Kroon CONTACT US ADVERTISING sales@ventanamonthly.com EDITORIAL Ventananancy@ventanamonthly.comPHONE805.648.2244Magazineisdirectmailed to 14,000 homes in the city of Ventura. An additional 3,000 copies are street circulated county wide. Total Circulation is 17,000 VentanaMonthly.com
EDITOR’S
For the residents of The Oaks neighborhood in Santa Paula, the recent heat wave didn’t go unnoticed. But they had an edge over some of us. This particular area, as the name implies, is dominated by old, large oaks and other native vegetation, giving it something of an enchanted forest feel — and blessed, enviable shade. Mike and Melanie Binsley, two residents of The Oaks who grace our front cover, have found numerous ways to enjoy their outdoor environment. With a bocce ball court in front, covered patio and stone benches in back and a house inextricably linked to the history of Ventura County, there’s so much to explore in this home that has aged like a fine wine since it was built in 1937. I hope you’ll enjoy exploring it, too, in our Cover Story.
There’s a very different tale to tell about the Rob inson residence. While the Binsley home dates back decades, Marty and Tom Robinson’s Southwest Pueb lo-style abode was built in 2018. Or, rather, rebuilt: The
6 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022
original home in Ventura’s hillside community of Ondu lando burned down to the ground in the Thomas Fire of December 2017. They share how they came back from such a devastating loss, finding solace and support in family and friends, and rediscovering a powerful sense of gratitude, in About Town.
Just thinking about the Ventura Botanical Gardens has me grateful all over again for the cooler weather and the fact that fall is on its way. Perhaps I’ll welcome it with a hike through this lovely local treasure. I hope you will find something similarly beautiful, joyful and life affirming to do during these balmy days, and that many good things are in store for the season to come.
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he Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme treated kids to an incredible summer of fabulous activities. Cultural outings, educational talks and sports were all on the schedule, making for several highlights in August.
T
SUMMER FUN
BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER OXNARD AND PORT HUENEME
Many of these field trips took place in and around Los Angeles. Local kids headed to Dodger Stadium on Aug. 4 for some Major League Baseball, and watched the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the San Francisco Giants (5-3). Later, they explored art at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, where they had the opportunity to see exhibits on Indigenous Colombia, Spanish America and even fashion great Alexander McQueen (1969-2010). Another trip took them to the Natural History Museum, where dinosaur bones, gems and minerals, wildlife dioramas and more were on display.
1. Leo, Carlos, Dira, Omar, Michelle, Perla, Myah (front), Lizbeth (back) and Rhianna at Dodger Stadium on Aug. 4.
Photo by Polet Rodriguez 2. In front of a tank at the U.S. Navy Seabee Museum on Aug. 8. From left: Victoria, Staffmember Mariana, Jonah, Alexandra, Oscar, Christopher, Staffmember Andrew, Delilah, Mason, Daleyza, Kamila, Kimberly and Staffmember Kate. Photo submitted 3. Frolicking among the lights at LACMA. Left, front to back: Omar, Michelle, Rodrigo, Evelyn and Isiah. Right, front to back: Lizbeth, Leo, Dira and Rhianna. Photo by Polet Rodriguez 4. Staffmember Jonathan with Carlos, William, Jennifer, Ethan, Santiago, Ari and Staffmember Sofia at the Natural History Museum on Aug. 15.
Photo by Marely
“It is always my greatest joy to watch our members experiencing new things, building relationships, and just having fun,” said Erin Antrim, CEO. “As this season comes to a close, I look forward to the excitement that comes with a brand new school year. We are eager for all our upcoming programs, projects, and upgrades, and can’t wait to share it all with you.”
www.bgcop.org COMMUNITY 1 2 3 4
There were things to do and see closer to home as well. Over at Naval Base Ventura County in Port Hueneme, attendees toured the U.S. Navy Seabee Museum, where they learned about the history, work and contributions of the Naval Construction Battalions. And of course, no summer would be complete without trips to local parks and beaches. All of this on top of the numerous camps, activities and opportunities that the Boys & Girls Clubs offer year round.
8 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022
Open Wednesday!Every
TURTLE CAMP
O
1. A native Southwestern pond turtle (Actinemys pallida) being examined by a Turtle Conservancy biologists during a survey in the Sespe Wilderness. 2. Campers look for water bugs in a pond during an overnight camping trip at Piedra Blanca. 3. On the hiking trail at Piedra Blanca for a camping trip. 4. Hands-on interactions with resident turtles, like this male radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata), were a highlight of Turtle Camp. 5. Camper documenting behavioral observations of Burmese black mountain tortoises (Manouria emys phayrei). 6. Radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata). 7. Oogway, a female sub-adult Galapagos tortoise (Chelonoidis niger).
For many students, Turtle Camp was their first time away from home. Nevertheless, by the end of their week-long adventure, most campers were wishing that it was not coming to an end.
“The milestones these kids overcome, both in knowledge and personal development, was incredible,” says Assistant Director of Education Manci Rasmussen. “This camp was everything we thought it would be and so much more. We look forward to hosting more summer camps in the future!”
10 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022
TURTLE CONSERVANCY, OJAI Photos courtesy of Manci Rasmussen
www.turtleconservancy.org
COMMUNITY 1
8. Two campers meet Oogway the Galapagos tortoise for the first time.
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
ver the summer, from June 25 to July 2, the Turtle Conservancy invited middle school students from Los Angeles County and the surrounding areas to join conservancy staff, camp counselors and volunteers for the organization’s first-ever Turtle Camp held at the Conservation Center in Ojai. Students were immersed in learning about various aspects of turtle conservation and Ojai ecology, including individual chelonian species, conservation management techniques, egg development, the climate crisis and the theory of convergent evolution in giant tortoises.
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SET IN STONE
TCOME OUT
The great outdoors beckon from a historic home in Santa Paula’s Oaks neighborhood.
he Oaks in Santa Paula is a special community. A short drive from town along Highway 150, and just a few miles from Steckel Park, some 200 homes nestled at the lower end of Santa Paula Canyon together make up a neighborhood formed over the decades. One of its most notable features is its native vegetation, specifically (although not limited to) the beautiful California Live Oak trees that dot the landscape, giving shade and a sylvan, almost magical quality to the environment. The beauty and distinctive fla vor of the region called to numerous creatives who built homes here, among them architects Roy Wilson, Robert Raymond and John Stroh; photogra pher Horace Bristol; and artist Douglas Shively.
By the 1960s, the building had been purchased by new owners who 8
Wilson built his Oaks office in 1937, and his architect’s eye is im mediately apparent. The structure sits in harmony within its woodland environment, thanks to its low form and stone construction, which echoes the rocks of nearby Santa Paula Creek. The stone served another purpose: It keeps the house cool when the sun is high and the temperatures rise. According to Melanie Binsley, the stonemasons were the Madrona Broth ers, who “did a lot of churches and schools in the area.”
The building where the Binsleys reside was originally constructed not as a house, but as an office space for none other than Roy Wilson. Wilson was the first licensed architect in Ventura County, and the man respon sible for the design and construction of three buildings related to the Limoneira Company, as well as several built on Santa Paula’s Main Street.
BY NANCY D. LACKEY SHAFFER | PHOTOS BY VIKTOR BUDNIK
Some 10 years ago, the Oaks welcomed Melanie and Mike Binsley, longtime Santa Paula locals who moved into their current house in 2012. As they soon discovered, their abode was as rich in history as the commu nity itself.
EMILY PHELPS throws a bocce ball on a summer evening. Melanie and Mike Binsley and their dog, Corky, stand by, in front of a vintage Shasta camper.
The backyard sees plenty of use, too — both by the Binsleys, and presumably by the architect himself.
8Continued on page 18
RUSTIC ELEGANCE is found indoors as well, where wood, tin and vintage glass are used to decorate the dining room.
AND PLAY!
After moving in, the Binsleys instituted other changes to make it their own: An attic space has been converted into a loft, the bathrooms were updated, etc. The person assigned to carry out these modifications? Chris Wilson, grandson of the property’s original owner and architect.
“He’s a contractor,” says Melanie of Roy Wilson’s descendant, who lives just up the street and has become a good friend. “He helped with the renovations, and that made it very special.”
This playful nature served Melanie well as a pre
ECLECTIC ENTERTAINING
“At Halloween I put skeletons up there,” Melanie says with a grin. “We decorate all the way down the street!”
COME OUT AND PLAY
STORYCOVER
The Binsleys love to entertain, and there are numerous tables and chairs in front and back for friends and family to gather. Recently, the Binsleys built a bocce ball court under a large oak tree out front. They frequently set up tables and chairs around the court and invite guests over for a game or two. It’s particularly delightful on summer evenings, when the heat of the day has given way to the cool of the night, the wine is flow ing and the fairy lights in the branches above are twinkling. And yes, the games go on even after dark, thanks to light-up bocce balls.
The grounds surrounding the Binsleys’ home take up just half an acre, but the lot seems so much larger. That’s partly due to the unspoiled, some what wild landscape around it — very characteristic of The Oaks. But the emphasis on outdoor living also adds to the expansive feel.
used it to live in. At that time it underwent some renovations and exten sions, becoming a long, slender two-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath home offering around 2,300 square feet of indoor living space. Even so, many of the original design elements can still be seen today. For example, visitors might notice stones laid out to create a bird-shaped image (said to be the Madrona Brothers logo) on an exterior wall, or one of several stones featuring hand-carved images. These owners also kept the two beautiful stone fireplaces, one of which is in the Binsleys’ bedroom (formerly Wil son’s original office).
school teacher and daycare provider, who worked with Head Start, the First Christian Church and the Santa Paula Community Center before retiring. And it also informs her decor. Scattered around her home and yard are eclectic pieces that she proudly describes as “oddball”: A planter shaped like a pig, colorful sculptures and other artwork, ceramic “faces” that have been placed on the trees, and an elfin village of miniature houses displayed charmingly in her backyard. A beautifully restored, vintage redand-white Shasta camper adds to the sense of whimsy.
The arbor near what was once Wilson’s office entrance, for example, is the perfect spot to enjoy coffee and scones on a small, circular table, beneath wisteria that grows overhead. Near the driveway, a large sculp tural fountain made from metal and river rock beck ons to visitors. While it’s currently dry, owing to the drought, it still makes quite a sight.
FictionalMagicalGENRE:RealismMemoir
16 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022
Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Words--read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store internally
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Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Words--read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly.
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As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store internally essential love; eventually he is able to bestow this love. The following excerpts, inspired by FIND
Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Words--read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store internally essential love; eventually he is able to bestow this love. The following excerpts, inspired by the paintings of Edward Hopper, occur in the story when the protagonist is beginning to collect such essences of primal bliss.
EXCERPTSFINDonYouTube FictionalMagicalGENRE:RealismMemoir onlyaudiences18+
onlyaudiences18+
Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Wordsread by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store inter nally essential love; eventually he is able to bestow this love. The following excerpts, inspired by the paintings of Edward Hopper, occur in the story when the protagonist is beginning to collect such essences of primal bliss.
Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Words-read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store internally essential love; eventual ly he is able to bestow this love. The following excerpts, inspired by the paintings of Edward Hopper, occur in the story when the protagonist is beginning to collect such essences of primal bliss.
Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Words--read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly.
FictionalMagicalGENRE:RealismMemoir
FictionalMagicalGENRE:RealismMemoir
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c
MIKE BINSLEY proudly displays the wine he makes under the Santa Paula Cellars label.
8
Melanie imagines that Wilson’s friends and colleagues would gather in this space to play roque, and sit on the benches to watch the game and converse.
The onetime roque court is surrounded by beautiful stone benches installed by Wilson, possibly using rocks from Santa Paula Creek. According to Melanie, three perfectly round stones that were found on the property, and which are prominently displayed on a bench, were probably claimed from the river as well, and prized for their symmetry.
BOCCE ANYONE? Family and friends gather for a bocce ball party at the Binsleys’. From left: Mike and Debbe Sparkuhl, Lori Beyer, Korie Conant, Judy Rice, TJ Binsley and Taylor DeGrano (son and daughter-in-law of the homeowners, with Labradoodle Corky), Mike and Melanie Binsley, Paul Randall, Emily Phelps, Anne Randall, Ruth Rope and Gena Mathwin (seated).
STONEMASONS known as the Madrona Brothers worked on the building, which has stone carvings scattered throughout.
“This was probably a dirt playing field,” says Melanie, gesturing to the large, rectangular space. Specifically, a field for roque, similar to croquet and popular during the first quarter of the 20th century.
While the outlines of the roque court can still be seen, the backyard now features a mix of lawn and patio, made out of stone pavers, with a barbecue and wine barrels that have been turned into tables — a perfect complement to the rustic elegance of the home and property.
A separate patio immediately adjacent to the dining room — with gorgeous, floor-to-ceiling windows — is marked off by low stone walls. Here the Binsleys have yet another seating area, an umbrella for shade and a pizza oven — which has, indeed, seen plenty
STONE AND WOOD can be found throughout the backyard. The roque court has been turned into a patio with wine barrel tables, but the spectacular stone benches surrounding it remain.
When Mike and Melanie (and probably Corky) feel like digging in the dirt, they head over to the side yard. There a large, fertile plot resides, perfect for herbs, tomatoes and oth er homegrown vegetables. There are a few fruit trees as well.
Coffee and scones are a mighty fine way to start a morning at The Oaks. But the Bins leys enjoy their adult libations, too — wine in particular. In fact, they host a semi-regular gathering of fellow wine lovers that have taken to calling themselves the Cork Suckers. And while a variety of wines (and sometimes beer and spirits as well) are donated for the cause, a favorite is that which comes from Santa Paula Cellars, Mike’s personal wine label.
SANTA PAULA CELLARS
“I’ve made wine in the garage since college,” Cal Poly San Luis Obispo graduate Mike explains. (Melanie attended Cal Poly, too, which is where she and Mike first met.)
SEPTEMBER 2022 | ventana | 19
of use over the years. And when not set up for dining with guests, it also serves as Labra doodle Corky’s own little shady corner of the yard.
Whether it’s bocce ball out front, a barbecue or pizza party in the back, or a morning spent gardening, everything about this property seems to invite residents and guests to enjoy the outdoors.
“It draws you outside,” Mike confirms. “That was the philosophy of the architect, I think.”
Through the decades he developed his craft — and his passion. Those who tasted the
8Continued on page 21
20 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022 P r e s e n t e d b y C o u n t y o f Ve n t u r a H e a l t h C a r e A g e n c y P I E R P O N T R A C Q U E T C L U B this October! We are having our annual anniversary sale! Get 45% OFF our join fee! From October 1st. to the 31st. Call us at 805.648.5161 for more! www.pierpontrc.com Celebrating Pickleball Tennis Group Fitness Personal Training Game Room Swimming Courtside Cafe Child Care Jacuzzi & Sauna Est. 1977
“In 2014 I found a custom crush place in Santa Clarita,” he says. He’s been making, aging and storing wine ever since.
It has aged like a fine wine, and based on the joy the Binsleys — and their many visitors — get from the space, it only continues to get better. v
patio, it has evolved with the decades and the desires of its residents.
The property that Roy Wilson purchased and built upon nearly 85 years ago has changed through the decades. From office to residence, from roque court to
MELANIE AND MIKE BINSLEY drink wine under one of the many oak trees that give the neighborhood known as The Oaks its name.
GRACEFUL EVOLUTION
fruit of his labors were impressed, and encouraged him to take his wine making to a new level.
But its spirit, like its strong stone walls and the ancient oaks sur rounding it, has remained. A place where friends and family meet, where stories are told and laughter is shared, where the art of living is explored and celebrated daily.
LET THE GAMES BEGIN! Ruth Rope, Gena Mathwin, Anne Randall and Emily Phelps battle it out on the bocce court while Debbe Sparkuhl, Lori Beyer, Korie Conant and Judy Rice relax and mingle.
His tentative goal at the moment is to open a tasting room in Downtown Santa Paula.
Now operating out of Pulchella Winery, Mike makes small batches of cabernet, petite syrah and other wines every year. Currently he shares it with friends and family, and a few restaurants around the county, such as the Ranch House in Ojai or the Hangar Bar and Grille at the Santa Paula Airport.
“Perhaps next year,” he says. Wine enthusiasts, stay tuned!
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8Continued on page 26
I
If they haven’t visited Marty and Tom Robinson’s Southwest Pueb lo-style home in the foothills of northeast Ventura’s Ondulando neigh borhood in, say, five years or more, guests could be forgiven for thinking, “Hey, same as before.” At least, initially, given the bright and spacious interior, the comfortable furniture throughout, the engaging artwork and, especially, the presence of Akeelah, the Robinsons’ 6-year-old pit bull mix, who makes herself comfortable by laying on the floor next to a guest, her head using said guest’s foot as a pillow.
SEPTEMBER 2022 | ventana | 23 TOWNABOUT
The furniture is new. So is the artwork — mostly from local artists, but also some from Mexico and Asia. The two backyard patios have become one. Some plants, like lemon trees, are gone, while others, such as the cacti, are in their place.
BY MIKE NELSON | PHOTOS BY VIKTOR BUDNIK
So when Marty — a retired Ven tura County executive officer — and Tom — a veteran contractor — say of their now-rebuilt home, “It’s basically the same as it was before,” they smile, knowing what rebuilding entailed: hard work, smart pre-planning, solid family and neighborly support, a healthy supply of patience and deter mination, and a positive, “we will get through this” attitude.
The Ventura Family Robinson rebuilds.
SURVIVED”“NOTHING
BURNED BUT NOT BOWED
On the night of Monday, Dec. 4, 2017, Tom was in a deep sleep and Marty was on her iPad when the Thomas Fire began advancing west ward from Santa Paula. The fire’s size and scope quickly got their attention
And there is definitely a renewed sense of peace and appreciation for life radiating from Marty and Tom, which is understandable given what they’ve been through in the years since the Thomas Fire of December 2017 destroyed their then-nine-year-old home and hundreds of others in Ventu ra, many of them in the Ondulando and Clearpoint areas.
A CACTUS IN BLOOM graces the garden, which definitively reflects the home’s pueblostyle architecture and design.
Upon further inspection, though, visitors might notice some changes.
Casa Pacifica Centers for Children & Families would like to recognize and thank the Casa Pacifica Angels; the Wine, Food & Brew Festival Committee; CSU Channel Islands; and all the sponsors, businesses, exhibitors, individuals, volunteers, Amigos, and our Board of Directors for their invaluable support of the 29th Annual Casa Pacifica Angels Wine, Food & Brew Festival. Please continue to support the businesses and sponsors that support us!
Barbara & Michael Coulson
Lisa
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All proceeds from the Festival went towards the $5.1 million Casa Pacifica needs to raise each year in private donations. As part of its public/private partnership, Casa Pacifica must raise 15% of its budget to fill-the-gap between funding received through government contracts and the actual costs of providing our wide variety of high quality programs and services to the most vulnerable children and youth (and their families) in our community. For more information about Casa Pacifica’s programs and services, please visit www.casapacifica.org. Melanie & Steve Higashi
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They drove their motorhome to the residence of one of their adult children, and upon arriving were greeted by their eight grandchildren bearing a special gift: a small Christmas tree adorned on top not by a star or angel, but a small wooden dog with the name “Akeelah.”
BRIGHT COLORS and tastefully artistic elements can be found everywhere...even in the stylish dining room settings.
26 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022
8Continued on page 28
“WE MAKE A GREAT TEAM,” say Tom and Marty Robinson, reflecting on their rebuilding efforts.
“Our house burned down around 4 a.m.,” says Marty, “from the top down.” Others in the neighborhood also went up in flames despite their tile roofs and stucco exteriors, says Tom, “because embers as big as your hand were carried by the winds under the eaves into the vents, meaning that the homes burned from the inside out.”
They grabbed all the important papers and photos they could and fled with Akeelah, spending the rest of the night at a friend’s house.
although, says Tom, “we figured it wouldn’t be here, if at all, until the next morning, because usually the wind currents go north toward Ojai. But these winds were coming from the northeast, gusting to 70 miles an hour, and the fire was soon upon us.”
nearly 300 others, Cal Fire reported, adding that “more than 90% had fire-resistant roof protection.”
“WE’RE STILL GOOD”
The blaze “jumped all over the place,” burning pockets of homes, skipping some and burning others. In less than a day, “all the homes here were gone,” Marty says quietly. “Nothing on the cul de sacs survived.”
“We had just bought a motorhome, thinking we’d travel the country,” smiles Marty. “It became our new home, at least for a while.”
Altogether, the Thomas Fire destroyed some 750 homes in Ventura County, including more than 500 in the city of Ventura, and damaged
With the fire having wrought its damage barely a week after Thanks giving and a few weeks before Christmas, the emotional blow was more severe to many of those affected than the physical effects of losing their homes and belongings. But Marty and Tom found solace and support from a variety of sources.
“In some ways,” says Marty, “we were the two best people for some thing like this to happen to, because I worked in county government for many years and have dealt with bureaucracy. And Tom’s been in construc tion and contracting for many years, so we knew the lay of the land better than others might.”
As a result, the actual rebuilding process went “very smoothly,” the Robinsons say, except for reconnecting gas service which took longer than expected. It helped that the foundation slab, “which still exceeded the standard,” was still intact and that the outline of where walls had been was, though charred, still visible, “which simplified things for the work crew,” says Marty. “
In January 2019 — 13 months after the fire — the Robinsons returned to their rebuilt 3,400 square-foot, three-bedroom, 3 1/2-bath home that offers a stylish but comfortable interior that incorporates the easygoing mood of the community and the owners.
Two other factors played a crucial role in Marty and Tom’s rebuild. One was the good fortune of having an architect, Kevin Miller of Ocean View Design, who kept good records.
“We were fortunate in that we didn’t have to deal with devastation and deci
“On Friday after the fire,” says Marty, “we got a call from Kevin, asking if we were interested in having an electronic copy of the original plans.
“And soon there were 15 people inside the motorhome for a family get-together,” laughs Marty. “And we said, ‘We’re still good.’ Because you realize that what brings you joy are family, friends and community.”
SENORITA SKELETON emerges every October for Dia de los Muertos festivities. 8
As a result, he continues, “We pulled through this ordeal stronger
SUPPORTING LOCAL ARTISTS
“We’d be pushing our cart full of food and toasters and clothes,” smiles Tom, “and we’d see other folks with the same items in their carts. We’d strike up a conversation and find real camaraderie, because they’d been through what we had.”
“WE MAKE A GREAT TEAM”
ThatYes!”made the process much simpler and less costly. “Some architects were charging astronomical prices to those who wanted to rebuild,” says Tom, “but we already had our plans. And where we needed to, we could update in compliance with building code changes that had occurred in the previous eight years. And that’s a good lesson for anyone: Look at your home insurance to see if you’re covered for any changes in code and law.”
Which leads to the second plus-factor: practical experience.
than we were before, because we realized, ‘We’re all in this together.’ There’s a saying that goes, ‘Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional,’ and it really is true.”
“We usually have Sunday dinner for anywhere from 12 to 22 any way,” she says, “so it made sense to maintain the tradition. And I needed to cook.”Sheand Tom took advantage of special pricing offered to fire victims by Macy’s, Bed Bath & Beyond and others to restock lost items; perused the Internet (especially Facebook and eBay) for good deals; and made regular trips to Costco for supplies and more.
28 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022
AKEELAH is the Robinsons’ beloved beauty of a pit bull mix.
In less than three weeks, through word of mouth, they had located a totally furnished rental home in Camarillo, “with the nicest landlords you could hope for,” says Marty. The Robinsons moved in on Dec. 22, and a few days later Marty prepared Christmas dinner for 18.
Smiling, she adds, “We make a great team for getting stuff together.”
“We were also fortunate,” adds Marty, “that we had increased our in surance before the fire came. And we had people we knew, professionally and personally, who looked out for us.”
Also present are sculptures in various media by Maggie Kildee and Kathy Waggoner of Camarillo, and the late John Jagger of the Central Coast, as well as paintings by Ventura’s Hiroko Yoshimoto and Saticoy’s Susan Petty. From Asia by way of Oxnard is a Xian warrior statue outside the dining room glass door, while back inside, from Bali by way of Hawaii, is a striking (and fitting) wood sculpture of rising phoenixes.
And throughout the house are homages to Mexico, long one of the Robinsons’ favorite travel destinations. Alebrijes, brightly colored folk art sculptures of fantasy/spirit animals, are found in several rooms; a display of “antique” sombreros hangs in the entryway; and an engaging, wildly
Among them is contemporary fine artist Susan Cook of Ventura, who created the large oil mural of the Robinsons’ grandchildren at play that graces the entry hall; a second grandkids’ painting for the master bedroom; and a playful portrait of goats, dubbed “Rookie Fire Prevention Officers,” hanging in the family room.
In addition, work by many local artists is prominently displayed in every“Generally,”room. says Marty, “we collect
what moves us, as well as works of friends and family, and what we find on our travels. For instance, before the fire I had a large painting of a lady on an elephant, the graduate project of my friend Marie Kennedy. That, along with a large papier mâché giraffe, made by very talented artists from Mexico, became the art for the kids’ room. After the fire, we made an effort to focus on local artists.”
SEPTEMBER 2022 | ventana | 29
And, where necessary, they could incorporate each other’s artistic talents. Marty, as part of her work with the Glass Art Collective in Westlake Village, has created a fused glass window to be installed in the garage. For the mas ter bathroom, Tom built the stained concrete shower with tile inlays and a tub with reading light. And their son, Tom N. Robinson, contributed colorful yet calming photographs set on metal, portraying tranquil scenes of beaches, bays and bridges.
VENTURA ARTIST SUSAN COOK created this large oil mural depicting the Robinsons’ grandchildren at play.
8Continued on page 31
sion-making like some re-builders did,” says Marty. “We were able to find and reorder all of what we’d had in the kitchen, for example.”
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“A NEW SPIRIT”
The tour raised funds for the Friends of the Ventura Library Founda tion’s efforts to provide bookmobile services to the community. “Libraries had to be supported during the pandemic,” says Marty, a foundation board member, “because they are so vital to the life of the community.”
colorful “senorita skeleton” emerges from a corner off the hallway each October to join the “Día de los Muertos” festivities.
Outside, Tom — whose sculptures and drawings, sadly, were lost in the fire — did the stained concrete of the driveway, the stained wood doors of the three-car garage and the brick-and-tile walkways leading to the front door. He and Marty were involved in landscaping, which in cludes potted cacti and other drought-tolerant plants as well as vegetables and fruit trees.
SEPTEMBER 2022 | ventana | 31
“Due to the love and generosity of family and friends,” says Marty, “our home is again filled with the beauty of Mexican handcrafts and art. And replacing what we lost with art from so many places has been a cool, fun thing to do.”
In back, the now-united patio — done in terracotta oblong pavers with glazed Mexican tile insets — bends around the kitchen/living room sector and overlooks the Ondulando and Clearpoint neighborhoods beyond and the slope below where, amazingly, several trees (including jac aranda, pepper and avocado) survived the fire, unlike most of the homes now being (or having been) rebuilt. The stairs and railing along the slope, as well as the patio awning supports, are made of sculpted wood from Colorado.Thepatio also hosts an array of outdoor furniture to provide more than ample space for entertaining. Recent gatherings included the post-
Nearly four years after the rebuild was completed, the Robinsons find that moving back is not without its challenges, which can be more emotional than physical. The construction crews and equipment that still abound in the neighborhood, working on replacing more homes, are daily reminders of that.
“The stories are never-ending from the people who were affected,” says Marty. “How they left, how they rebuilt and why, the challenges they faced. Some people just left altogether. For one couple, the wife still can’t come back to look at her place; it’s too emotional, so they’re selling. The whole range of human responses is amazing. Because something like this scars your soul as well as your home.”
At the same time, though, they are embracing what Tom calls “a new spirit in the neighborhood. Below us is a family with teen daughters who play music and have parties, but not too loud. And across the street, a very nice younger family has moved in. It’s a nice complement to the older folks who have been living here, and it’s like a rebirth of the house and the “Weneighborhood.”areverygrateful,” adds Marty with a smile, eyeing her sleeping beauty of a pit bull mix, “to have come through this as well as we have.” v
event reception for the “Rise From the Ashes” home tour that spotlighted homes rebuilt after being destroyed by the fire.
GLORIOUS VIEWS are one of the best things about the neighborhood, and this lovely bathroom takes full advantage of that fact.
SOUTHWEST SPIRIT amd a love of color are found everywhere, including the bedroom.
32 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022 @vccoastcleanupdayVentura County Annual Coastal Cleanup Day Thank you to our sponsors! 9AM - NOO NS AT U R D AY Se pt emb 17 t h 2 02 2 For self-guided cleanups download and use the Clean Swell data collection app to record and report your cleanup. VC INTEGRATED WASTE MANAGEMENT DIVISION DRISCOLLS HARRISON INDUSTRIES www.VCCoastCleanup.org For more information & site locations visit:
BY NANCY D. LACKEY SHAFFER
The past, present and future of the Ventura Botanical Gardens.
WILSON: The Ventura Botanical Gardens started as an idea from a group of community members. Over the years, hundreds of volunteers have given their time and efforts into building our
“A COMMUNITYGARDEN FOR ALL OF VENTURA COUNTY”
O
DERRICK WILSON: Botanical gardens are important because there is a commitment to conservation and education of plant species that are rare and endangered. Visitors can learn about plants and enjoy them in an outdoor setting without having to travel great distances. We have collections of plants from the five Mediterranean zones which you probably would not find in just a regular park.
SEPTEMBER 2022 | ventana | 33
VENTANA MONTHLY: How did the idea of a botanical garden in Ventura first come about?
What makes Ventura Botanical Gardens special?
CONVERSATION 8Continued on page 36
What distinguishes a botanical garden from just another natural or pretty place? What makes an area a “botanical garden”?
THE MEREWETHER WELCOME CENTER greets visitors to the Ventura Botanical Gardens. Photo submitted
In the hillsides behind Ventura’s City Hall are several acres of natural paradise. A place where picturesque trails wind through a landscape filled with thousands of plants and stonework elements, gently rising for nearly a mile. From the top, and at several points along the way, are expansive views of the city, the ocean and the Channel Islands beyond. Stunning sights, beautiful surroundings and blissful serenity, all just steps away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.Thisenchanting locale is the Ventura Botanical Gardens, which began to take shape in the early 2010s and continues to be an ambitious work in progress. Overseeing the longterm plans as well as the day-to-day maintenance are a group of committed staff, board members and volunteers. A few of these VBG stew ards — Executive Director Joe Cahill, board member Tracy Long, co-founder/advisory board member Rosa Lee Measures and board president Derrick Wilson — talked to Ventana Monthly about the development of the botanical gardens, the challenges of the Thom as Fire, future visions for the institution and more.
ROSA LEE MEASURES: Inspired on a trip to the beautiful gardens of Sweden and Norway, a few enthusiastic women began an extensive search. Midge Stork, Beverly McCaslin, Christian Taylor, Joann Kaplan, Nancy McAvoy and myself concluded a large-scale exploration with the selection of Grant Park, a worldclass site overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Then, the process of a public-private partnership began.
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In 1918, Kenneth Grant, the owner of the land at that time, donated about 110 acres to the city of Ventura to be used as a park. The city was only able to develop a few small sections of the park for public use, so it made sense to offer the acreage to a nonprofit for development as a botanical garden. The Ventura Botanical Gardens are taking advantage of the Mediterranean climate and geological variety on the hillside to develop five separate gardens representing our sister climate areas here in California, the central coast of Chile, the Cape of South Africa, Australia and, of course, the Mediterranean basin. We currently have 35 to 40 acres under our care, but once completed, the gardens will occupy 107 acres of Grant Park.
TRACY LONG: The Ventura Botanical Gardens are located in Grant Park on the hillside above downtown Ventura. The rugged hills, located in one of the five Mediterranean climate zones found in the world, have a rich history associated with agriculture and water management. The area was considered part of Mission San Buenaventura and during the Mission period, it was used extensively for both farming and grazing. Over the course of about 200 years, a large portion of the land was used for growing vegetables, a pine grove and a citrus orchard. The hillsides were terraced for farming, and an intricate system of dams, capture basins and canals was constructed for irrigation. Much archaeological evidence of this agri cultural use can be found in and around the gardens.
trails, maintaining plants, hosting our Visitor Center, and serving on the board of directors. It truly is a community garden for all of Ventura Coun ty. It is also great to have this unique partnership with the city of Ventura which adds to making the gardens a special place.
When the first trails were being created, those acres that are now part of VBG were free and open to the public. When did that change, and why?
Tell us a little bit about the history of the land that is now Ventura Botanical Gardens.
8
HELPING THE GARDEN GROW A few of the Ventura Botanical Gardens board members, from left: Phil White, Joe Cahill (executive director), Barbara Brown, Derrick Wilson (board president), Tracy Long and Kevin Clerici. Photo submitted
WILSON: The Ventura Botanical Gardens is not funded through tax dollars, like Arroyo Verde Park and other city, county, state and federal parks. It was built and is maintained by the community through admis
LONG: Visitors to the gar dens today have so much to enjoy. Although the Ventura Botanical Gardens are still in the early stages of development, we have a collec tion of over 40,000 plants in our care. Many of these are rare species that aren’t easy to find anywhere else. The plants, the winding pathways, the garden art, and the many other interesting amenities are accented by the stunning views of the coastline, ocean and islands. Our guests often com ment on the colorful blooms that can be found in the Chilean and South African gardens, all of the impressive rock work, and the ocean views that change as you go up the hill. The otherworldly giant aloes in the Karoo Garden are a favorite, as are the beautiful proteas and bulbs found in the Fynbos Garden. Our visitors also enjoy taking a break in the Welcome Center and browsing through the gift shop. We always have new projects in the works, and the plants themselves are ever-changing, so visitors will always have something new to see.
8Continued on page 39
A PICTURESQUE PATH winds through the Chilean Garden. Once complete, it will be the largest of its kind outside of Chile. Photo by Phil Ranger
LONG: The Thomas Fire blew through all of Grant Park during the first night of the fire. Virtually every plant was impacted in some way by the fire. Some were blackened and denuded, others had heat damage, and many burned to the ground, including a few rare and endangered specimens.
The gift shop at the Welcome Center behind city hall continues to evolve with a fun selection of botanical-themed items, plants and ceramic pots.
How badly was the land damaged during the Thomas Fire?
New educational signs have been added throughout the garden to provide more information for visitors as well as tour groups of school children and adults.
sions, donations, grants and memberships. It is only because Venturans wanted to preserve and support this hilltop gem that it even exists. Like other gardens, the fees help VBG to further develop the gardens and to maintain plants and infrastructure.Forthosewho can’t afford the $45 annual membership, the upper trails off Brakey Road are open and free to the public. We also offer free admission every Friday and on select holidays. EBT cardholders, educational groups and children are also free.
PROTEA or sugarbush blooming in the fynbos collection of the South African Garden. Photo by Phil Ranger
LONG: After the Thomas Fire, the Ventura Botanical Gardens remained closed to the public for 11 months. In the early stages of the recovery, staff and volunteers spent countless hours assessing the damage and cleaning up debris left both by the fire and decades of overgrowth. Walls, pathways, signage, irrigation and other infrastructure had to be repaired and replaced. Plants that survived the fire needed special care. However, the closure did offer opportuni ties that had not existed before. Construction of the new Merewether Welcome Center was able to move ahead rapidly, and planting and the addition of new amenities were made easi
Tell us a little bit about what Ventura Botanical Gardens offer today. What are some of the biggest attractions and hidden gems?
JOE CAHILL: There is always something new for visitors to see. In the last year, several lookout sites have been added with benches and sculp tural features that provide great spots to stop and rest and enjoy the views.
What are some of the more recent changes or additions?
Sections of pathway were damaged when retaining walls and under ground roots burned away. Most of the signage that we had in place at the time was destroyed. In the rains that followed, we suffered mud and rock slides where mature plants had previously kept the steep hillsides together. Although the impacts of the fire were visually and emotionally devastating at time, the gardens have since recovered and substantially surpassed their pre-fire development.
er by the brush removal provided by the fire.
What challenges and projects were undertaken to restore the gardens after the fire?
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EXPANSIVE VIEWS of Ventura, the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands can be enjoyed from several lookout points throughout the gardens. Photo by Phil Ranger
ed in the gardens.
Ventura Botanical Gardens
WILSON: Immediately in the next few years we are looking to com plete the planting of our Olive Grove and several major donor sites. Ad ditionally, we look to finish planting thousands of trees as part of a grant from the state Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation Program. In the future, we have plans to construct an event center and an event mead ow — both of which will have multiple uses and a new road entrance. We also look to expand our irrigation systems so new plants can go into the new trails we plan to build.
WILSON: The South African Garden with plant collections repre senting the fynbos and karoo plant communities. The fynbos section is very colorful and there is always something new to discover throughout the year. With additional seating in both sections of the garden, it is a great place to sit and enjoy nature.
GIANT ALOE AND CORAL SPECIMENS in the karoo collection of the South African Garden. Photo by Phil Ranger
What’s something about VBG that most people don’t know?
What is your favorite place in the garden, and why?
Looking toward the future, what plans are in store for VBG in the next couple of years? How about longer term?
CAHILL: We are in the infancy of a 40-year master plan. When it is complete, the gardens will cover 107 acres, the vast majority dedicated to California native plants.
VBG is a national leader in water conservation among botanic gardens. All of the plants in the collections are drought tolerant and sustainable because they are California natives or plants from our sister climate regions, so the plants are adapted to the same climate conditions as Ventura. After the first year or two, the plants become established and can survive on the annual rainfall we have in Ventura. In addition, 95% of the water used to irrigate the plants to establish them is reclaimed water. We are also experimenting with collecting water from fog and other sources. Having flexibility and being able to draw from multiple sustain able water sources is the best way to maximize conservation. We really strive to be an exemplary model for other gardens to follow.
MEASURES: Ventura Botanical Gardens have become a major focal point, drawing visitors from around the globe. Hotels and restaurants are the primary beneficiaries of an economic impact, with a very low carbon imprint. We are thrilled with our success of bringing people together from all walks of life, not only to enjoy, but to get involved, and become invest
The conservation programs have really expanded over the last two years. The Ventura Botanical Gardens is now conserving a growing col lection of around 80,000 plants. Our conservation mission is focused on California native species, particularly threatened and endangered plant species and rare local endemic plants. Visitors will also experience our smaller plant collections from our sister Mediterranean climate regions of Chile, South Africa, Australia and the Mediterranean. These collec tions also feature many threatened and endangered species that are part of important conservation programs with partner botanic gardens in California and around the world. Conservation to prevent the extinction of plants really is a global problem that benefits immensely from global conservation efforts.
567 South Poli Street, venturabotanicalgardens.com805.232.3113Ventura
SEPTEMBER 2022 | ventana | 39
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Sept. 17 | Moorpark
Sept. 17 | Ventura
Sept. 24 | Port Hueneme
WE CAUGHT A FALLING STAR
42 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022
EMERALD CABARET
Through Sept. 25 | Ventura
Welcome to Almost, Maine, a place so far north, it’s barely in the United States. Where the residents are so disorganized, it’s not quite a town. On one cold, clear winter’s night, as the Northern Lights float magically in a star-filled sky, the inhabitants of Almost find them selves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. In nine entwined stories, strangers become friends, friends become lovers and lovers become strangers. Knees are bruised. Hearts are broken. But the bruises heal, and the hearts mend – almost. Sweet, witty, full of laughs and surprises, this romantic comedy has broken box office records and received critical acclaim through out the nation. $30-$59.50. Rubicon Theatre Company, 1006 East Main Street, Ventura, 805.667.2900, www.rubicontheatre.org.
WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S Sept. 24 | Oxnard
Through Sept. 24 | Thousand Oaks
THE GREAT ART THEFT
Through Sept. 25 | Ojai
Dress to the nines for this once-in-a-lifetime, immersive speakeasy experience! You’ll be stepping back into the 1920s for this fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County. Let us entertain you with a swanky band playing the best jazz music, artisan “giggle juice,” a fortune teller, Instagram-worthy photo ops and so much more! This fun event is 21+, where you’ll have the opportunity to mix and mingle with BBSVC and some surprise guests. Learn about all of the ways we have fun as an agency while creating youth mentoring opportunities across the county! We encourage guests to dress to the nines and win a chance at an awesome prize! Tickets: $50 general or $180 for four guests; $70 VIP or $260 for four guests. Secret location in Downtown Ventura; invitation with password and location will be provided after you RSVP. More information at bbsvc.org/emerald/
Experienced and novice golfers alike can take a swing for Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families and the Rotary Clubs of Camarillo at the 30th annual Care for Kids Golf Classic, hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Camarillo. One of Ventura County’s longest running charity golf tournaments, Care for Kids takes place on Monday, Sept. 19, at Spanish Hills Club and will feature a four-person “Texas Scramble” format, a range of on-course competitions, online auction and post-tournament awards banquet. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by 11 a.m. shotgun start and cocktail hour at 4:15 p.m. Dinner and awards ceremony take place at 5 p.m. Spanish Hills Club, 999 Crestview Avenue, Camarillo. Registration and sponsor ship information can be found at www.careforkidsgolf.org
Fifteen-year-old Christopher has an extraordinary brain: He is exceptional at mathematics but ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. He has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched, and he distrusts strangers. Now it is seven minutes after midnight, and Christopher stands beside his neighbor’s dead dog, Wellington, who has been speared with a garden fork. Finding himself under suspicion, Christopher is determined to solve the mystery of who murdered Wellington, and he carefully records each fact of the crime. But his detective work, forbidden by his father, takes him on a thrilling journey that upturns his world. Rated R for language. Conejo Players Theatre, 351 South Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, 805.495.3715, conejoplayers.org.
THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME
This wildly popular annual event raises funds for much-needed renovations for the Ojai Art Center. The profits from previous years have paid to refurbish the original maple floor in the gallery, paint and re-carpet the gallery walls, add new lights in the gallery and showcases, a new heating and air-conditioning system, solar installations and a new floor and paint in the Raymund Room. And yet there is more to be done. We’re hoping to put a new roof on the Raymund Room. At the Great Art Theft (where great art is a steal) local artists have donated paintings, sculptures, jewelry, ceramics and much more. Come view the art, pick your favorite(s) and buy a ticket. For the mere price of $100, you can own an original piece of art donated by these artists (art valued at much more than the price of a ticket.) When you buy a ticket, your name is put in a basket and drawn one by one at the gala on Sunday, Sept. 25. The party starts at 4 p.m. Ojai Art Center, 113 South Montgomery Street, Ojai, 805.646.0117. More information and tickets available at www.ojaiartcenter.org/store/p65/The_Great_Art_Theft.html.
LIST ALMOST, MAINE THROUGH SEPT. 25 | VENTURA BANANA FESTIVAL SEPT. 24 | PORT HUENEME CARE FOR KIDS GOLF CLASSIC SEPT. 19 | CAMARILLO
Dr. Kevin D. McKeegan, Professor of Cosmochemistry in UCLA’s Dept. of Earth, Planetary and Space Sciences, will bring actual meteorites to display and talk about their origin and composition. Professor Hal Jandorf will also talk about the au tumn sky. Free parking and admission. Arrive early. Please no pets. Presented by the Ventura County Astronomical Society.
Sept. 19 | Camarillo
BANANA FESTIVAL
It’s gonna be bananas on Sept. 24! Get ready for the tastes and sounds of ports near and far, with a variety of cuisine and banana treats available for purchase. Festival attendees can also enjoy tours of the port, a kids’ zone, live music, and a vari ety of goods at the All Ports Marketplace. We’ve also added an Oldies By the Sea Car Show as you enter on Market Street. Tons of fun for the whole family! Free admission and parking. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Port of Hueneme, 105 East Port Hueneme Road. More information at bananaportfest.com
ALMOST, MAINE
Photo courtesy of the Rubicon Theatre
SHORT
6:30-11 p.m. at the Moorpark College Observatory, 7075 Campus Road, Moorpark, www.vcas.org
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is full of flowers, each carried by someone committed to ending this disease. Because like flowers, our participants don’t stop when something’s in their way. They keep raising funds and aware ness for a breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. It’s time to add your flower to the fight. Walk takes place at The Collection at Riverpark, 2751 Park View Court, Oxnard. Registration begins at 8 a.m.; ceremony at 9 a.m. Walk officially begins at 9:15 a.m. More information at act.alz.org.
CARE FOR KIDS GOLF CLASSIC
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beautiful tile combine with lighting and plumbing fix tures selected to provide each room with its own special fea tures. Built by Central Coast Engineering, this ocean front home has been thoughtfully designed to include a time less elegance that will blend cohesively with a variety of interior furnishing selections. Approx. 4,700 Square Feet. Please contact Coldwell Banker Global LuxuryAriel Palmieri 805-746-2070
Tenants pay gas and electricity. Excellent rental to add to your portfolio! Listed by Coastlands Group. Contact Nick Lilly at (805) 746-9884,
a downstairs laundry room and two downstairs baths. The chef’s kitchen offers an expan sive island, custom cabinetry, natural stone counters, gour met appliances, and a builtin espresso maker, all over looking the Pacific. Upstairs, the oceanfront primary suite includes a bedroom with a private beachside balcony, multiple windows for enjoy ing the views and catching the breeze, an ocean view spa-inspired bathroom and a luxury walk-in closet and dressing room. There are three additional bedrooms, two more baths, as well as a media room and upstairs laundry room. Well-placed skylights, transom windows and large glass doors offer natural light, and a curated palette of stone, wood and
This ocean front new con struction home with unbe lievable views is a Modern Cape Cod nestled on the water’s edge in Faria Beach. On the coastline between Ventura and Montecito, this idyllic spot allows for its resi dents to surf, kayak, swim, fish, sunbathe, take in the sunset, and stargaze. Enjoy phenomenal views from the family room, dining room, kitchen, wine-tasting room, and primary suite. The many windows, decks and balco nies provide incredible vistas of blue waves, marine life, white water, and the surfers’ paradise known as Mondo’s Beach. The first level includes a three-car garage, great room with incredible views, a wine-tasting room with water views, a downstairs bedroom,
Boogaloo Assassins are a 13-piece Latin Boogaloo, Salsa, and Latin Soul group from Los Angeles, California. A live music favorite since 2008, their independently released 2013 debut album Old Love Dies Hard was inspired by the soulful Latin records of the 1960s, and their 7-inch lead single “No No No” took radio and dancehalls around the world by storm. They will provide a heavy mixture of Afro-Latin rhythms, funky horn arrangements and soulful vocals that both define boogaloo as a genre and contribute to a much wider sound. Catch the band on Friday, Sept. 30, at the Stagecoach Inn Museum Lawn, 51 South Ventu Park Road, Newbury Park. Tickets are $35 and available at bapacthousandoaks.com
30 | NEWBURY PARK
44 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022
Feel connected to your county’s environmental community with the local leaders and creatives creating a more sustainable future. Celebrate and learn more about oaks and native plants with Dr. David White of Once Upon a Watershed, Jenn Rodriguez of Growing Works, Katie Tilford of TinyPlants, and Melina Watts, author of the book Tree, in partnership with Melissa Baffa of Ventura Land Trust. TinyPlants and Growing Works will also be selling beautiful native plants. So join us, get some plants and go wild. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The Museum of Ventura County, 100 East Main Street, Ventura, venturamuseum.org/event/oaktober/.
THE LATINX EXPERIENCE: JOURNEY OF THE SKELETONS, A DIA DE LOS MUERTOS STORY
LIST RESILIENCE: ART OF THE CHANNEL ISLANDS THROUGH DEC. 19 | OXNARD UNCLE VANYA THROUGH SEPT. 25 | SANTA PAULA BOOGALOO ASSASSINS
This exhibition will explore how creatives are inspired by the natural world. Five award-winning local artists, Joe Adams, Holly Woolson, Linda Legman, Genie Thomsen, and Christina Altfeld, will use unique mediums to explore the flora and fauna of the Channel Islands. Resilience: Art of the Channel Islands will be the CIMM’s largest temporary exhibition to date. Through printmaking, painting, drawing and ceramics, artists will capture the extraordinary diversity of the many species that call the Channel Islands home. Reflecting on the unique conditions and challenges of island life, this exhibit will also provide a special educational opportunity for guests of all ages. By exploring natural history and stunning biodiversity, from the ancient pygmy mammoth to the Channel Islands fox, Resilience: Art of the Channel Islands strives to express the true miracles of these legendary islands. Channel Islands Maritime Museum, 3900 Bluefin Circle, Oxnard, 805.984.6260, cimmvc.org.
Oct. 8 | Ojai
SEPT.
An exhibition of 40 new artworks that represent the Ventura artist’s continued work on her long-running “Biodiversity“ series. The exhibit also features “Impending Storms,” a large-scale installation designed by Blue Marble Art Collec tive, a group that includes Yoshimoto and artists Katherine Chang Liu, W. Scott Miles and Tori Tasch. Kay Zetlmaier’s Geomorphic: The Living Earth will also be on exhibit through Sept. 11. Santa Paula Art Museum, 117 North 10th Street, Santa Paula, 805.525.5554, www.santapaulaartmuseum.org
Through Dec. 19 | Oxnard
UNCLE VANYA
RESILIENCE: ART OF THE CHANNEL ISLANDS
Journey of the Skeletons: A Dia de los Muertos Story is a heart-warming comedy that follows a Latino family as they prepare to connect with their loved ones who must pass through the underworld to celebrate Dia de los Muertos. However, as fate would have it, our beloved characters encounter challenges on their journey including the Lord of the Underworld herself. Each performance will also feature Latino dancers, poets, musicians and storytellers, as well as some workshops. The final performance takes place on Saturday, Oct. 8, with a Dia de los Muertos Community Celebration taking place on Sunday, Oct. 9. General admission $20; $17 for students, military and seniors. Special group rate of 5 people at $10 per ticket. The Elite Theater, 2731 Victoria Avenue, Oxnard, www.theelite.org/news/the-latinx-experience/
BOOGALOO ASSASSINS
In the heat of summer, Sonya and her Uncle Vanya spend their days on a crumbling estate deep in the countryside, visited occasionally by the only local doctor, Astrov. However, when Sonya’s father, Professor Serebryakov, suddenly returns with his restless, alluring, new wife, declaring his intention to sell the house, the polite facades crumble and long repressed feelings start to emerge with devastating consequences. Olivier Award-winner Conor McPherson’s stunning new adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s masterpiece has a stripped, vivid simplicity which quickens the pace of the drama and speaks to our modern sensibilities. The result is a sumptuous tale of self-pity and its consequences, of finding hope in the hopelessness and learning to move on. It does not radically reinvent or revolutionize Chek ov’s 19th-century story. It returns us to the great, mournful spirit of Chekhov’s tale about unrequited love, aging and disappointment in middle-age, while giving it a sleeker, modern beat. $22-24. Santa Paula Theater Center, 125 South Seventh Street, Santa Paula, 805.525.4645, www.santapaulatheatercenter.com.
SHORT
Through Sept. 25 | Santa Paula
Through Oct. 9 | Oxnard
ON THE HORIZON
STEP INTO YOUR WILD WHOLENESS
Sept. 30 | Newbury Park
Through Nov. 6 | Santa Paula
Oct.OAKTOBER2|Ventura
HIROKO YOSHIMOTO: NEW WORKS
Taft Gardens Nature Immersion Program presents a one-day Nature-Based Resiliency Retreat guided by Brian Stafford, MD. This program is an experiential exploration of our human psyches as unique expressions of the universal forces and patterns of wilderness and nature. Our “wilder” minds possess astonishing resources, untapped potentials and depths that we might not even know exist until we discover how to access them, cultivate their powers, and eventually integrate them into our everyday lives. During this day, we’ll begin to access these depths and potentials — which we call the four facets of the Self, or the four dimensions of our wilder human wholeness. Stafford is an eco-therapist, depth psychiatrist, retreat facilitator and co-founder and director of the Wind Mind Training Program, an eco-depth wholistic psychotherapy program at Animus Valley Institute. $80. More information at www.taftgardens.org/events.
SEPTEMBER 2022 | ventana | 45 VENTANA HOME SALES INDEX CAMARILLO 2021 2022 NEWBURYFILLMORE #OXNARDOJAIMOORPARKPARKPORTHUENEMEHOMESSOLD 9 77 AVERAGE PRICE $847,200 $961,800 # HOMES SOLD 11 5 AVERAGE PRICE $663,400 $917,000 # HOMES SOLD 60 38 AVERAGE PRICE $961,300 $948,800 # HOMES SOLD 52 28 AVERAGE PRICE $916,000 $1,105,100 # HOMES SOLD 13 22 AVERAGE PRICE $1,266,600 $1,341,800 # HOMES SOLD 110 98 AVERAGE PRICE $791,800 $846,100 # HOMES SOLD 31 15 AVERAGE PRICE $512,100 $477,400 SANTA PAULA SIMI TOTALVENTURATHOUSANDVALLEYOAKS#OFSALES 620 541 # HOMES SOLD 15 19 AVERAGE PRICE $762,800 $706,200 # HOMES SOLD 147 91 AVERAGE PRICE $823,200 $833,200 # HOMES SOLD 88 70 AVERAGE PRICE $1,044,300 $1,133,800 # HOMES SOLD 84 78 AVERAGE PRICE $877,600 $849,500 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 08/01-08/30/22. Ventana Monthly Home Sales Index © Ventana Monthly, 2022. AUGUST 2021 VS. 2022 HOMES SOLD ➡ +6.6% AVERAGE PRICE -12.9% ➡ 234 BARNARD WAY, VENTURA 3 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 3,095 SQFT OFFERED AT $1,895,000 8242 CAMP CHAFFEE ROAD, VENTURA 3 BED | 2 BATH | 1,118 SF OFFERED AT $1,295,000 514 KAILAS STREET, VENTURA 4 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 1,762 SF OFFERED AT $1,250,000 326 E. SURFSIDE DR. PORT HUENEME 3 BEDs | 2 BATH | 968 SQFT Offered at $529,000 JUST LISTED! 2788 ALTA DR. SANTA BARBARA 4 BEDS | 3 BATH | 2244 SQFT Offered at $1,300,000 JUST LISTED!SOLD & WE CAN SELL YOURS, TOO!SOLD & WE CAN SELL YOURS, TOO!SOLD & WE CAN SELL YOURS, TOO!
Coastlands Real Estate Group is proud to give back to our community on behalf of every real estate transaction. (805) 795-2001 • eric@coastlandsgroup.com • www.coastlandsgroup.com
1311 Isleton Place, Oxnard
Spectacular, highly upgraded, 3 bedroom, 2 ½ bath Westport townhome. The gourmet kitchen has elegant stone counters, fine-crafted cabinetry, KitchenAid and Miele appliances, accent lighting, and a ‘’dine-at’’ island. All baths have been remodeled with beauti ful, stylish sinks and fixtures. Recent upgrades include new AC, whole house water filtration system, and a new water heater. This gated community is across from the Westport waterways and is a short walk or bike ride to the beach. Stroll the lushly landscaped paths, which meander along the water, then return to enjoy the community pool and spa! Located near the Seabridge Marina and Channel Islands Harbor.
Resort style senior living in Ventura! Second floor, single story 2 bedroom with 2 bath rooms. It’s move in ready! Light and bright kitchen with double ovens, a gas cooktop, microwave, plenty of storage,
6287 Turnstone
DRE
Eric & Janet Baucom #01253080 / DRE #02045585
FORSALE plus a handy breakfast bar. This unit has a wonderful south facing patio to soak up the Ventura sun and air conditioning if it gets too warm.. Refrig erator, water softener and stacked washer/ dryer are included. Bella Vista is an active adult 55+ senior living community with a club house, pool and spa. #203, Ventura
Listed at $865,000
Listed at $1,200,000
1342 Bayside Circle, Oxnard
Change homes, Change Lives
Amazing opportunity to own a 4 unit apartment building! This property has a great mix of rentals with a 3/2, two 2/1.5’s, and a 2/1. Each unit has its own garage, and washer/dryer hook ups. Prop erty management, and long term month to month tenants in place. Current rents are under market, last rent increase was September 2021. Tenants pay gas and electricity. Excellent rental to add to your portfolio! Contact Nick Lilly at (805) 746-9884, DRE #02065499
Welcome home to
this beautifully appointed and upgraded home in one of Fillmore’s most desirable neighborhoods. This large home offers 2114 square feet and features 5 bed rooms and 3 bathrooms. Numerous recent upgrades and renovations have been done!. Chef’s kitchen boasts warm wood cabinets, an oversized center island, stainless steel appliances, & stunning granite countertops. Additional features include Simplisafe se curity system, keyless front door entry lock, smart doorbell, and MyQ smart garage door opener. 810 Central Ave, FillmoreJUSTJUSTSOLDSOLD SOLD FOR $732,500 SOLD FOR $549,000 INESCROW 805.351.3500CalDRE# 01060428SRAEY02OFSERVING OURCOMMUNITY.CRB Find out why we’ve been voted Best Real Estate Agents for Ventura County by YOU for the past 4 years running!!! Tina805-218-5926Comden Bob805-320-1811Ridgway Albert805-901-3654Barosso Call us for a free consultation Representing Ventura County and our many clients all over the United States!
We are a local real estate group with a passion for giving back to our community. For every home bought or sold through us, we will “give back” a portion of our commission to one of our local partner charities who are helping to change the world!
46 | ventana | SEPTEMBER 2022
Listed for $1,950,000
748 Navigator Way, Oxnard
IN ESCROW SOLD
Ideal for entertaining! Spacious home down the block from the beach. More than 3000 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 3 bath rooms. Open concept living makes this a great getaway to host fam ily and friends or full-time home to enjoy casual coastal living and incredible weather. Roof deck with peek a boo ocean view! Great outdoor space and a 3-car garage too.
Located in the Pacific Breeze gated community of single family homes, this home is centrally located near Ventura Road and Fifth Street for quick access to the beaches, harbors and military base. There are three spacious bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs and a powder room downstairs, plus an easy-care yard.
Sold for $1,200,000
Karen SteinJuliet Esquibias Ariel Palmieri
This ocean front new construction home with unbelievable views is nestled on the water’s edge. On the coastline between Ventura and Montecito, this idyllic spot allows for its residents to surf, kayak, swim, fish, sunbathe, take in the sunset, and stargaze. Enjoy views from the family room, dining room, kitchen, wine-tasting room, and primary suite.
IN ESCROW
NEW LISTING IN ESCROW
Listed for $675,000
West-facing Ventura Keys boat dock home with approximately 35’ boat dock! Beautiful 4 + 3 with gorgeous kitchen overlooking the channel. Incredible outdoor space including a spacious side yard and courtyard in addition to the waterfront decks.
2027 Shadow Creek, Victoria Estates, Oxnard
130 N. Garden Street #3441, Ventura Built in 2015, this Cannery penthouse is one of two homes on the fourth level accessed by elevator or stairs near the entry door. There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms, all on one level. Two balco nies provide fresh air and hillside and city views. Two side-by-side parking spaces in the subterranean garage. Keep cool with AC. Listed for $695,000
Sought-after Midtown location between Loma Vista and Poli. 1920s Spanish-style bungalow. Interior features include hardwood floors, coved ceilings, built-ins, a lovely fireplace and an updated kitchen. There are 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and approximately 1,100 sq ft of living space. The large backyard is home to the detached garage and an additional shed perfect for an office, art studio, or reading nook.
Listed for $899,000
SOLD
ArielandKaren.com JulietReviews.comArielCalDREPalmieri#01501968 Karen Stein CalDRE #01505059 SearchVChomes.com Exceptional Real Estate within Ventura, Santa Barbara & Los Angeles counties! Welcome Home (805) 616-4040 • (805) 746-2070 • (805) 824-2004 • (805) 695-3340
JulietCalDREEsquibias#01831073
Listed for $8,700,000
2823 Seahorse Avenue, Ventura
5118 Sealane Way, Mandalay Shores
3692 Pacific Coast Highway, Faria Beach - Ventura
FeaturedListing
380 N. Brent Street, Ventura
Sold for $2,000,000
Gated community! Executive-style home on the golf course with stunning views and a detached 1+1 casita. More than 3000 total square feet between the 4+3 main residence and the casita. Outdoor fireplace in courtyard. Open gourmet-style kitchen. Oversized garage. Community features pool, spa and gym.
The first level includes a three-car garage, great room with incredible views, a wine-tasting room or den with water views, a downstairs bedroom, a downstairs laundry room and two downstairs baths. The chef’s kitchen offers an expansive island, custom cabinetry, natural stone counters, gourmet appliances, and a built-in espresso maker, all overlooking the Pacific. Upstairs, the oceanfront primary suite includes a bedroom with a private beachside balcony, multiple windows for enjoying the views and catching the breeze, an ocean view spa-inspired bathroom and a luxury walk-in closet and dressing room. There are three additional bedrooms, two more baths, as well as a media room and upstairs laundry room. Built by Central Coast Engineering, this ocean front home has been thoughtfully designed to include a timeless elegance that will blend cohesively with a variety of interior furnishing selections. Whether for a primary residence or oceanfront escape, this incredible brand-new home will delight your senses as you enjoy the good life on the California coast. Approximately 4,700 square feet.
Sara CalDRECarlson#02177285
Sara Carlson
4572 Telephone Road, #906, 805.642.5500Lynnsjewelry.comVentura Jewelry Classes are Back! Call to reserve your spot! Oh! The Summer Night Has a Smile of Light And She Sits on a Sapphire Throne THIS OCTOBER AT LYNN’S 10% of the purchase of anything PINK in the store will go to support Quality Repairs Professional Restorations CustomAppraisalsDesign Gold, Silver & Estate Purchasing
John Muscarella Master Jeweler
All our custom designs have been made from 100% recycled gold for more than 50 years. Respect for the earth is not a new idea at Lynns.
