The Arts Issue

Beautifully Crafted Galgano Kitchen and Bath Remodel Completed in January 2008 by California Kitchen Creations.

C H A N G E YO U R WO R L D F O R T H E B E T T E R ...

(805) 654-1971

3367 T E L E G R A P H R OA D • V E N T U R A ( AC R O S S F R O M S E A R S T I R E C E N T E R ) A Division of William Howard Construction Inc. Lic# 685247

W W W . C A K I T C H E N C R E AT I ON S . C O M

Photos: Wayne Smith Photography

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CONTENTS

VOL.3 NO.3

EDITOR’S NOTE

AUG 2008

8 Local Motion

F E AT U R E S PERSONALITY

35 The Ed ucated Eye The Sylvia White Gallery and the evolution of California’s New Art City

NESTING

17 Art Lives Here The curvaceous home of local potter Leslie Thompson

TRAVEL

30 Half Moon Dreams 5-star digs and 40-foot waves on California’s Central Coast

60 Miles to Heaven

D E PA R T M E N T S TABLE TALK

23 From A to Zack New tastes at an old favorite

COMMUNITY

10 Cost ne r’s Swing Vote Downtown Ventura rolls out the red carpet

SHOPPING

12 Art for All Tools and products for master artistes and curious craftspeople

SHORT LIST

44 Local Events A selective preview of happenings throughout the county

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COV E R: Sylvia White in her namesake gallery, Midtown Ventura. Photo by Michael Robinson Chavez.

EDITOR’S NOTE

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w Local Motion

When Ventura County is bursting with established galleries and talented local artists, what’s a relative newcomer from L.A. doing on our cover? It’s an inevitable question—and the answer is simple: Because we believe the Sylvia White Gallery means more to local artists as a whole than any individual or other recent development on the local artscape.

Having the work of internationally acclaimed artists such as Robert Rauschenberg, Vija Celmins, and Ed Ruscha, to name just a few, exhibited in Ventura—in Midtown Ventura—will open the eyes of some heavy hitting art aficionados to our local arts scene. It means more respect for Ventura as a true “Art City,” and that means more respect for local artists. (And hopefully, higher prices and more sales of their work.)

For the rest of us, the Sylvia White Gallery is simply a refreshing place to see art, a sophisticated space with none of the urban pretentiousness that haunts a lot of big city galleries.

During our roundtable discussion (p. 35), a local artist with a studio nearby meandered in to check it out. We exchanged pleasantries and, with a stunned look on his face, he made a comment that pretty much summed things up: “Wow, a real gallery. Right here.”

THE EDUCATED EYE: PAGE 35

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My wife and I were driving along Poli Street during the recent Kevin Costner concert (p. 10) in Downtown Ventura, and I couldn’t help but reflect on that comment, or more accurately, the surprised tone. Like the artist, I was stunned at what I was seeing: Here is California Street exploding with energy and music, and families are spread out on blankets and fold-up chairs, and the Pacific is a soft, windless blue, not a whitecap in sight. I drive this route frequently, past City Hall to and from the Ventana office, and it’s always beautiful. But this buoyant scene was something else. It wasn’t just the crowd or the music; it was the overall sense of a place finally coming into its own.

Most California cities, particularly those along the coast, have been in decline for decades, overrun by irresponsible development and corporate chain stores. Homogeny has all but snuffed out the independent character that once defined these places. I suppose what I find most surprising is that we’ve somehow managed to avoid the cookie cutter this long. Ventura in 2008 is better than ever, in spite of a bleak economy. When that shifts, hang on.

Sitting down to write these Notes is a mixed bag. Sometimes the words flow—other times, with deadlines looming and a flashing roadblock standing in my mental path, it’s not so easy. Pardon the ramble, and thanks for paying attention.

MATT KATZ, EDITOR MattK@VentanaMonthly.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Matt Katz ART DIRECTOR Christy Sisneros ASSISTANT EDITOR Maxine Hurt CIRCULATION Teresa Wann-Davis HUMAN RESOURCES Andrea Baker ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Warren Barrett Peter Burgi Marni Howe Diane Newman Nima Noury Kelly-marie Tracy CONTRIBUTORS Michael Robinson Chavez DK Crawford Stephen Schafer Peggy Sijswerda Robert Ulrich GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Bret Hooper Lindsay Foster VP NATIONAL & GROUP SALES Charles Gerencser CONTROLLER Michael Nagami ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR Angela Wang ACCOUNTING Tracy Lowe PUBLISHER David Comden

CONTACT US ADVERTISING publisher@ventanamonthly.com EDITORIAL editor@ventanamonthly.com PHONE (805) 648-2244 FAX (805) 648-2245 MAILING ADDRESS 700 East Main Street Ventura, CA 93001 VentanaMonthly.com

Ventana Monthly is direct mailed to 25,000 selected homeowners and over 600 business locations each month. Total circulation is 33,000. ©2008 Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

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S W I N G V OTE A N D M O DE RN W E S T, DO W N TOWN V E N T U R A J ULY 2 6

COMMUNITY

Kevin Costner returned to his hometown of Ventura July 26 for an exclusive screening of his new film, Swing Vote, and to help raise money fo r local charities. The event kicked off with a V I P reception at Wate rmark r estaurant that raised n early $125,000 for charities including Ventura Unified School District, Inter face Children Family S er vices, S anta Paula Police/Fi re, and the Sant a Paula Family Resource Center. The evening concluded with a free per fo rmance from Costner and his band, Modern West.

R ight : Kevin Costner and Modern West Cloc kwise from below: Swing Vote star Madeline Ca rr oll with Mayor Ch ristie Weir; local ac to r V i rginia Madsen; K iley Ol ivier, James Rice Jr. , and K atrina Dolan ; Ventura conce rt crowd ; Jim Rice (left) with Ma rk and Kathy Ha r tley

PHOTOS BY ROBERT ULRICH

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Art for All Everyone has the ability to create. That is part of art’s intrinsic beauty—its spirit of democracy. With this philosophy of freedom in mind, we’re highlighting a range of tools and products for the master artiste and curious craftsperson alike. Take a look.

BY MAXINE HURT

SHOPPING

197 Dubbers Street,Ventura 805.648.1690.

[

[

Art City Studios

S p o t l i g h t

Stones from around the world are for sale at Art City Sculpture Supply. Primarily a working studio for sculptors, Art City also sells a range of stones to artists and inspired homeowners looking to commission a fountain or decorative sculpture. Stones sold include alabaster, soapstone, marble, onyx, and basalt. Call for pricing and material availability or just drop in and stroll through this one-of-a-kind facility where sculptors energetically “make noise and dust” under the Ventura sun.

805.640.6558

[

[

606 East Ojai Ave, Ojai

Speedball Deluxe Screen Printing Kit This tool kit gives you all the items you'll need to learn how to screen print on paper, fabric, cardboard, or wood. $75.99

[

[

Ojai Creates

Peruvian Bead Company 455 East Main Street,Ventura 805.641.1326

For the jewelry maker or even the general craftsman, beads are essential. And the more colorful and exotic, the better. Here are a few “gems” you can find at the Peruvian Bead Company.

Sennelier Soft Pastel Set Sennelier, the crème de la crème of paint manufacturers in the art world, has a line of pastels that includes the purest pigments, mixed with minimal amounts of natural binders to create an extraordinary color palette. The pastels are formed by hand, placed in special molds, and allowed to air dry, creating an exceptionally smooth and velvety feel.

Set of 80 $139.46

Glass “Sugar Beads” from the Czech Republic. $2.50 each.

All natural turquoise from China. $3 each.

Super Sculpey This semi-translucent, beige-pink clay is ideal for modeling work that requires fine details. It bakes within minutes in a household oven and is shatter- and chip-resistant upon completion. $11.89 (1lb.)

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All natural Mexican agate. $18 each.

Multi-colored and faceted Swarovski Crystals. $4 each.

Ve n t u ra C o un t y ’s Mos t U niq ue Store

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YOUR HOME...

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Y O U R At T o s c a n a W e s t, we carry a stunning collection of furniture and accents for your home or business. Each piece is individually selected for its own unique sense of warmth and character.

Our pieces range from Armoirs, Coffee and Dining Tables, End Tables, Dining Chairs, Bookcases, Dressers, Beds and more, to exquisite home accents such as Area Rugs, candleholders, wall décor, picture frames and silk plants. Come and visit us today.

“Green Living” is the buzzword of the day. At K i t c h e n P l a c e s, Ventura’s premiere remodeling company, it’s all about their commitment to the earth. Eco-Remodeler

Jeff King, owner of Kitchen Places and a graduate of the Environmental Studies program at UC Santa Barbara, has put together a design team that is knowledgeable about renewable product choices for cabinets, counters, plumbing fixtures and floor surfaces. King’s installation crews are sorting postconsumer building materials and installing Energy-Star appliances, tankless water heaters and insulated windows to make older homes more efficient. In short, Kitchen Places is “remodeling today with a sustainable future in mind.” Check out their innovative showroom located at 4125 Market Street, Suite 1 in Ventura.

Mention this ad Ventana and

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With your design needs and desires in mind, T i l e E n c o u n t e r s has developed the capabilities to better serve you. We are dedicated to excellence through provid-

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YOUR HOME...

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YOUR CAST L E

Call To FREE I day for n-H Estima ome tes

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M a l i n o w s k i & T o d d is pleased to feature the “Ten Miles of Pacific Coast Highway”, ten new original oils by Elain Thompson.

With each of these new paintings, it is her hope to capture this sense of motion and the moments we would otherwise only glimpse along one of the most beautiful ten mile stretches of coast in California.

In addition to these new originals, Malinowski & Todd has the largest selection of Original Oils and Giclee prints

by Elain Thompson available.

Malinowski & Todd, established in 2004, is located at 1725 East Main Street in Midtown Ventura 805-643-2002.

Ventura County is home to W o o d c r a f t S h u t t e r s, a local company that manufactures shutters for the public as well as the wholesale and design trades. Woodcraft Shutters offers the highest quality custom shutters for your home or business. Each order is custom made to your specifications. Our quality is backed by a written warranty.

We have an excellent rating from the BBB and are a California Contractor.

Installation is completed by our own staff, never by an outside sub-contractor. We also sell blinds and shades at discount prices. Call us at 805983-1735 for a free estimate.

Ad Executive: David Comden

AD PROOF

(805) 648-2244

Gonzales

1st Proof

Williams

Rose Ave.

Lockwood 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 Holser 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: AUG 2008

2nd Proof

NESTING Colorful tiles adorn a stairway that follows the home’s curve and leads to the owners’ creative spaces: for her, a potter’s workshop; for him, a woodworking room.

Art Lives Here

In a no d t o native cultures around the world, the Oak View home of ar tist Leslie Thompson breaks the straight line.

T

BY MAXINE HURT PHOTOS BY MICHAEL ROBINSON CHAVEZ

Three white c ylinders with brown turret-like p eaks stand together just off Highway 33 in Oak View. It’s a curious house—an eye-catching aberration that artist Leslie Thompson and her husband, Simon Chatwin, a computer programmer at Amgen, call home.

Some say the house mirrors the designs of Leslie’s art: elegant porcelain vessels featuring black and white geometric designs. Leslie likens it to hogans, the primary traditional domicile of the Navajo people of the Southwest, and kivas, underground, womb-like dwellings used by Pueblo peoples for religious ceremonies. Simon, who has spent a lot of time in Africa, likens the “cone on cylinder” shape to traditional rondavel huts.

Completed in 2003 by Ventura-based architect Roy Colbert, the house—which uses a pattern of self-bracing triangles to maximize structural advantage—is 2,900 square feet and includes two bedrooms, two and a half baths, an office, a pottery carving studio, a woodworking studio, and Leslie’s primary artist studio. While geodesic domes are known to use less material and be lighter and stronger than any other type of building, they’re not for everyone. “[Colbert] knew all the stuff that was wrong with them, like dividing up the space and not having any vertical wall space for pictures,” says Thompson. “They’re hard to heat and there is not much privacy.”

We begin our tour in the heart of the home, the center cylinder. The room has a peaked ceiling held up by vigas, Southwestern pine logs, with bamboo matting beneath them. The work of other local artists furnishes the room: stylish chairs by Keith Buchan, a fellow Ojai Studio Artist, and stained glass doors by Ventura glass artist

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Clockwise from bottom: No room is exempt from the artistic touch; in the master bedroom, a Moroccan glass lantern hangs from a peaked ceiling held up by vigas; the home’s cylindrical exterior guides the flowing interior lines; Thompson’s pottery, with its smooth curves and geometric patterns, is reminiscent of the home itself.

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Bob Eyberg. Custom-made tiles from RTK Studios in Ojai featuring an Amish quilt design in dark brown and tan adorn the walls.

The hallway in the center cylinder is lined with books, pottery, figurines, woven materials, and other pieces of handmade art. Across the hallway, more work from local artists lines the wall.

The peculiar, dream-like characters of Ojai painter Christine Brennan peer down upon visitors with bulging eyes. A red Chinese paper dragon floats above my head. Further down the hallway, mounted to the wall, is an intricately decorated Japanese taiko drum. Leslie takes the drum off of the wall.

“I had a native American friend visiting whose child immediately found the drum and was beating on it. I think it’s the only time someone used it,” Thompson says with a chuckle. “I thought it was great.”

We walk into the master bedroom, which is full of objects that offer a cross pollination of culture, ancestry, and friendship. There’s a Moroccan glass lantern hanging from the ceiling. A collection of wooden Geisha combs is neatly arranged on a bookshelf, and paintings by Leslie’s father line the curve of the wall. But the focal point is a wooden jewelry chest by the door. Ed Wohl, a wood worker Thompson met the first time she did the American Craft Show in Baltimore, made the cherry wood chest, whose drawers gracefully slide open to reveal its owner’s eclectic jewelry collection.

Downstairs houses the creative space for both Leslie and Simon. Simon has a woodworking room with a large golden “S” on the door (a gift from Leslie), and Leslie’s workroom is right across the way. There’s no clay on the walls or dust covering the surfaces. There isn’t a pile of cracked pots that didn’t survive the kiln. Like her work, Thompson’s space is precise. “I’ve been called obsessive com-

pulsive, but I feel like I’ve made it work for me,” she says. As expected, there’s a potters wheel in the corner, and her kiln is just outside the studio door.

We end the tour outside, next to one of Simon’s many contributions: a rock stream that follows the curve of the house down to a koi pond. Water lilies float on the surface and verdant clusters of hyacinths bob to the steady flow. The fish are swimming deep to stay cool. The sun is just easing down the horizon and Lake Casitas shimmers in the distance. At this atypical home, even the view is art. v

Visit Leslie Thompson’s studio during the Ojai Studio Art Tour, October 11 and 12 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. For more information visit OjaiStudioArtists.com.

Some say the house mirrors the designs of Leslie’s art: elegant porcelain vessels featuring black and white geometric designs.

Architect, Roy Colbert 1891 Goodyear Ave, Suite #607 Ventura, CA 93003 RoyColbertArchitect.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

A “Crowne”ing Achievement!

Ventura’s Crowne Plaza Hotel celebrates Summer with a Luau at the end of August, and a Summerland Winemaker Dinner at C-Street restaurant in September.

Chef Nic Manocchio and Restaurant Manager Sasha King welcome you to the beachside Aqua Lounge in this bird's eye view photo at Ventura's Crowne Plaza hotel.

Client: O-Sabi Japanese Restaurant

“August is hot, only here at the Crowne Plaza that applies only to our upcoming ‘summer staycation’ events!” Executive Chef Nic Manocchio and Restaurant General Manager Sasha King, grin broadly, and then elaborate. “The weather, unlike most of California, isn’t scorching, but warm with cool ocean breezes, perfect for folks to enjoy our two epicurean delights, an end of summer Luau in Aqua, our Beachfront Bar and Lanai at the end of August, and our wine maker dinner featuring Summerland Winery on September 11th. Also we are bringing back by popular demand the Ventura Limoncello Dinner in October, which was a hit earlier in the summer. Why waste the money and gas traveling elsewhere when we’re ‘The Place to Meet’?”

Striding out of the hotel bar, King and Manocchio both pause on the threshold of Ventura’s only beachside lounge, Aqua. “Can you imagine a better spot for a Luau?” they ask and gesture towards the blue Pacific and the beach within yards of the terrace. “We’re planning on having a Polynesian dance revue, the

whole nine yards! The South Pacific comes to Ventura, and of course Manocchio’s pleasant surprises to complement the cocktail and wine specials that evening. We’re stoked, it’s gonna be a blast!”

Seated in the hotel’s restaurant, C~Street, King’s excitement for the festivities is palpable. “Chef Manocchio is putting together an exquisite menu, with creations such as the Seared Wild Diver Scallop, King Crab ravioli with saffron and vanilla bean buerre blanc that will perfectly complement the selection of wines that Summerland offers. We tasted through all the varietals, and thought, Perfect! Not only are all the wines incredible, but they are right up the road, and ‘summer’ is in their name! To coin a phrase, it was a no-brainer! At $65 plus tax and tip, it’s also a great value offered in a beautiful setting” sweeping his arm to encompass the room.

Menu details, and reservations can be made by calling the Hotel at (805) 648-2100 or check the website, www.cpventura.com. 450 E.Harbor Blvd.

AD PROOF Ventura Always Free Parking!

Ad Executive: Peter Burgi

(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: AUG. 2008

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Delicious Teppan Grill Entrees including soup, salad, rice & shrimp appetizer. Starting at $13.95

FULL SERVICE BAR

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2nd Proof

H O U R S OF O P E R A TI ON Lun ch Mon. - Fri. 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

D i nn e r Mon. - Thurs. 5:00 - 9:30 p.m.

Fri. & Sat. 5:00 - 10:30 p.m.

Sun. 4:30 - 9:00 p.m.

Re s e r va t i o n s f o r T e p pa n D i n i n g Re co m me n d e d

Proofs, AD WILL RUN(APPROVED)” AS IS. If thisbox, proof meets on the 1st proof,AUG. check2008 off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign s proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF date andyour sign approval at the bottom.

ISSUE:

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Saturday, Sept. 19, 7-10pm

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Authentic Italian and Mediterranean fusion cuisine in a casual, but elegant atmosphere

$59.00 per person Adults 21+ MURDER MYSTERY DINNER TRAINS -

Coming to the Heritage Square Summer Concert Series:

L A D O L C E V I TA M A R K E T P L A C E

Aug. 30, Sept. 6, 6:30-9:30pm

Everything you need for the perfect Concert Experience From Appetizers to Desserts WE HAVE IT ALL ON THE LA DOLCE VITA PORCH Every Friday from 5pm

Selected Saturday Nights Year Round

Check the web site for schedule & weekend getaway packages where murder is a laughing matter.

$89.00 per person Adults 18+

MARGARITA MADNESS -

Aug. 16, Sept. 27 6:30–9:30 PM

The first Margarita is included with Mexican dinner followed by live music and dancing on the open air car.

Cookbook Now Available

$49.00 per person Adults 21+

SHAKE, RATTLE & RAIL – Sept. 5

This blast to the past provides 50’s-style dining, viewing classic cars in downtown Santa Paula then dancing on the open-air dance car to the top 40 radio and American bandstand hits. Celebrate the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer in the 1950’s & ‘60s.

!

C O O K I N G C L AS S

Catering

August 23 at 6pm, $45

Ristorante • Cocktail Lounge • Wine Bar • Heritage Square

Adults: $43, Youth 4-12: $28, Child 2-3: $20

AD PROOF

Advance Reservation Required for all F&W Dinner Trains

Enjoy the cool evening breeze AdThai Executive: Kelly Tracy (805) 648-2244 Client: A Good Ad Executive: Kell of will thehave Heritage Valley aboard refully and indicate all corrections clearly. You a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Please check this proof over carefully and indicate740 all South corrections clearly.

You willHouse have a~“1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof B Street ~ McGrath Downtown Oxnard If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL vintage PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: MAY 2008 the historic, train!

Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets 805.486.6878 your approval~on the 1st proof, ~check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date a www.theldv.com www.ladolcevitadimare.com

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Education Cutting Edge

on the

Ventura Unified’s El Camino High School is now located on the Ventura College campus

Look at what El Camino offers: • • • • •

Fully accredited, college-prep classes Independent study in a small-school setting The ability to earn high school and college credit concurrently No tuition fees for college classes Flexible setting which allows students to pursue work, internships, community service, athletics and the arts • Access to Ventura College’s state-of-the art facilities • A one-on-one educational experience with a fully credentialed teacher

El Camino is FREE and open to students who live in Ventura, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties.

Apply now for the Fall 2008 term

Call (805) 289-7955 www.elcaminohighatvc.org 22

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TA B L E TA L K

From A to Z

New tastes at an old favorite keep summer diners smiling at Café Zack

N

BY DK CRAWFORD PHOTOS BY STEPHEN SCHAFER

Nested on the corner of Ann and Thompson streets and swiped with a large Z that Zorro himself would envy, Café Zack, a cozy 1930s bungalow restaurant, is a longtime favorite of Ventura natives. So when the owners recently decided to update their menus, they knew that any changes would have to be carefully finessed.

“We absolutely had to keep Zack’s Tostada Salad and the Grilled Chicken Pesto on a Baguette on our lunch menu,” explains Hector Gomez, one of the owners. His chestnut eyes glimmer as he tells me about some of the new additions to the menu and the responses they’ve received from regular diners.

The Kobe Beef Burger decked with bacon, grilled onions, cheese, and a tomato aioli and the Zack’s Roast Beef Sandwich with roasted bell pepper, Swiss cheese, and fresh horseradish are getting high acclaim, he says. And an ever-changing Ravioli du Jour keeps the lunch menu exciting: “The Rosemary Chicken Ravioli with roasted garlic sun dried tomato sauce was a hit, as was the Lobster Lasagna with roasted tomatillo and cilantro cream sauce.”

On the dinner menu, the new best seller is the Rack of Lamb served with a fresh mint, port wine reduction. “Our chef (Gomez’s brother-in-law Salome Cervantes) is creative and makes all of our sauces from scratch, and his temperature (on meats) is perfect,” says Gomez. For that reason, both the Choice Filet Mignon served three different ways and their signature Slow Roasted Wild Boar Shank in a rich demi-glace stayed on the menu. Other favorites that Zack’s kept around are the creamy Seafood Curry and their Lobster with Sweet Corn appetizer.

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We want to stay here forever.

We’re not here to get rich.

This is our job, and we love what we do.

Top: Owner Hector Gomez and chef Salome Cervantes; middle: The caprese salad, with fresh heirloom tomato and bufala mozzarella, is served only once a year; bottom: Zack’s Pie is a pecan-crusted slice of heaven on a bed of caramel.

Café Zack created its new menus to showcase seasonal ingredients at their peak. “We only serve our caprese salad once a year when the tomatoes are freshest,” says Gomez.

Their caprese features jewel-toned fresh heirloom tomato slices, fluffy bufala mozzarella flown in from Italy, freshly sliced basil chiffonade, and a balsamic reduction. Another seasonal highlight, the Soup du Jour is served for both lunch and dinner. On my last visit to Café Zack, the Roasted Butternut Squash soup was thick and warming, with a slight aroma of whipped hot chocolate.

A surprising twist on the dinner menu is the use of seasonal produce with foie gras. “Last week our chef served it with fresh blueberries and peaches with a port wine demi-glace,” says Gomez. There is also a new fish special served nightly, which the chef pairs with homemade compound butters. Recent dinner services have featured sea bass and Norwegian salmon, which Gomez tells me was served with a sun dried tomato or chipotle chili butter.

For dessert, Café Zack is perhaps best known for the rich slice of decadence named Zack’s Pie—a pecan crusted bittersweet chocolate bliss served on a bed of caramel and topped with whipped cream. But now there are tempting new desserts, such as a Pear Marzipan Tart, Raspberry Raisin Bread Pudding served a la mode, and Peach and Cream Cheese Empanadas.

One feature of Café Zack that Gomez vows will always remain the same is their philosophy on service. “The customer must be 100% satisfied,” he says proudly. A regular, overhearing our conversation, chimes in, “Stellar service!”

They’ve just renewed the lease for another 15 years and procured permits to redo the patio seating area. “We want to stay here forever,” says Gomez, who runs the restaurant with the help of three brothers-in-law and three nephews.

“We’re not here to get rich. This is our job, and we love what we do.” v

Café Zack 1095 E.Thompson Blvd.

Ventura 805.643.9445 CafeZack.com

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T he r e nde zv ou s w he r e lo v e r s mee t!

Bella

• Wine Bar • Pub • Art Gallery

Italian flourishes meet Irish hospitality Visit www.myspace.com/caffebella for Live Music Calendar Q C Queen Stella Cigars now at Bella Now Available - “Ventura Gentlemen” $8

S

Bella is open in the late afternoon serving cheese plates, bruschette, hummus, mozzarella & sliced tomato with a dessert of the day.

Open Tuesday - Saturday 79 S California St, Ventura (805) 643-2171

Ventura’s Hometown Comedy Club August 8-10

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Double Headliners Kivi Rogers & Rocky LaPorte

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August 15 ONE NIGHT ONLY! 10 Headliners

2 for 1 admission with this ad any Friday or Sunday (excludes special events)

August 22-24 $20 Friday & Saturday $15 Sunday

Shows: Fri @ 8pm • Sat @ 7pm & 9pm • Sun @ 7pm

Call 805.644.1500 for Reservations

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Start the school year off right!

Get on the CSFCU Bus and Save!

County Schools Federal Credit Union offers a variety of Youth saver accounts such as:

Junior Saver Student Savings Student Checking Certificate Saver

Open any new young saver account and we will

Match 10% of your initial deposit Up to the first $100 deposited!*

We look forward to telling you, “WELCOME HOME” to Ventura County’s ONLY Education Credit Union!

CALL NOW TO RESERVE SPACE IS LIMITED

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805-201-3366

4591 Market Street, Ventura, CA 93003 (805) 644-4657 www.csfcu.org

With two or more adult reservations receive a FREE commemorative tabletop book “Blue Whales” by renowned whale research expert John Calambokidis when you reserve by telephone.

*Some terms & conditions may apply. Good through 10/31/2008 Please contact County Schools FCU for more informaion.

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Fairchild& Ridgway

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Group

Specializing in Hillside, Coastal & Estate Homes in West Ventura County

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Located in Camarillo's best secured retirement living neighborhood, this 2 bedroom Capri home is what you have been waiting for. Newly painted and carpeted with new granite counter tops in kitchen accent the spaciousness this model offers. This is a must-see in a very popular retirement community.

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lly 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 is proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: AUG. 2008 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

It’s Time For A Change...

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New Patient Discounts on Botox®.

FINAL (APPROVED) Offering a full linePROOF of cosmetic fillers.

This proof is to check for accuracy and is not intended to show quality of reproduction.

Juvederm® Restylane® Radiesse® Sculptra® Fraxel Laser Skin Rejuvenation All injections and lasers given by a physician!

NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

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AD PROOF

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y 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 proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check C off box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: AUG. 2008 oas“FINAL tal SkincPROOF are. We (APPROVED)” are proud of our affiliaFellowship trained in Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery. She has recently added Fraxel Laser Treatments to a list of services, which includes face, neck and brow lifts, breast surgery, liposuction, rhinoplast y, tummy tucks, Botox, dermal fillers, and more. The office for Ventura Plastic Surgery is conveniently located at 1280 South Victoria Avenue in Ventura. Consultations maybe scheduled by calling 805-642-1699. Visit the website at www.venturaplasticsurgery.com for more information.

tion with Dr. Pickart- From ratemds.com, posted Jan.’08- “ Dr. Pickart did a great job on my face!

He explained the pros and cons..and advised on what fillers would be most beneficial for the different sections of my face…there was absolutely no pressure to “do more”. There was little discomfort, (almost none) and I liked that he told me what he was doing as he was working. ( My face looks) GREAT, and VERY NATUR AL! I would recommend Dr. Pickart to anybody.” Call today for a Face Contour evaluation. 648-4567.

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d 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 of meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: AUG 2008

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Half Moon Dreams

A

California’s rugged Central Coast offers travelers a bit of everything , from fine dining and 5-star digs to 40-foot waves and eco-resorts.

BY PEGGY SIJSWERDA

A chilly breeze churns off the Pacific, but I don't mind. It reminds me of Ventura. Besides, there’s a crackling fire warming my bones and I’m on the terrace of the Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. Things could be worse. Thanks to an overcast sky and cool temperatures, my mother and I are here admiring the majestic view all by ourselves. We sip our wine and feel the breeze, turning now and then to warm our bodies with the fire's glow.

We search the horizon vainly for a glimmer of light, still hoping to view a sunset over the Pacific tonight. But the fog and the clouds conspire to shroud the sun, and as the sky grows progressively darker we take comfort in the fire's warmth before dinner calls us inside.

Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, less than six hours north of Ventura County, the Ritz-Carlton is a haven from the everyday world, a chance to escape the mundane and live like royalty for a while. Here you'll find an otherworldly experience where bagpipes play in dreamy wonder, where warm hands massage pumpkin-infused shea butter into your skin, where dinner at Navio unfurls like a map revealing a gastronomic adventure, from which you will emerge hours later, slightly dazed and savoring the rich

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mix of flavors and textures that linger on your palate.

Mom and I are here enjoying a mother-daughter getaway. I've visited twice before—once on a solo sojourn and another time with a gal pal—and wanted to show my mother this special place that stirred something within the first time I saw it.

Maybe it's the magical name that rolls off your tongue like a song from the ‘40s. Or the way people smile and make you feel welcome, even if you're just passing through. Maybe it's the old-fashioned Main Street with its weekly farmers market and tidy shops and offices. Or the smell of the forest that seeps down from the mountains and awakens your senses. There's just something here I can't explain, a feeling I get, an addiction almost, that makes me want to drop everything and head to the Northern California coast for some HMB time. And whether you stay at the Ritz-Carlton, a B & B, or the youth hostel at Pigeon Point, you'll find plenty to love about this region. But be warned: Once Half Moon Bay grabs hold, you'll find yourself daydreaming about its charms and wondering when you can go back.

An adventurer's paradise, Half Moon Bay promises action from surf to turf. And when I say surf, I’m not talking about longboard-

It's as if you've wandered into a different realm, where nature reigns supreme and everything else falls flat.

ing C-St. Every winter, 24 of the world’s best bigwave surfers vie for top honors at the Mavericks Surf Contest, which has a waiting period that guarantees huge waves breaking off Pillar Point.

Of course, surfing Mavericks isn’t for everyone, but the contest attracts thousands of spectators every year.

If you prefer a four-legged jaunt, get up at sunrise for the early bird special at Seahorse Ranch. Along the tops of the bluffs, you and your horse will amble along a trail that reveals an unsurpassed view of the ocean. Then be prepared to descend a steep path to the beach, where if you're lucky, you can coax your mount into a gentle canter thorough the billowing surf.

Hikers will find trails to the mountaintops and beyond snaking through the Santa Cruz Mountains. One of my favorites is a coastal trail near Costanoa, an eco-resort just south of Half Moon Bay with upscale lodge accommodations, tent cabins, and campsites with a view for folks who want to sleep under the stars. After you cross Highway 1, the trail takes you through waist-high grasses and brambles full of rich woodsy smells.

Soon the ocean's roar will grow louder, and suddenly you'll peer down at the Pacific from a rocky bluff surrounded by craggy cliffs that loom like giants. It's as if you've wandered into a different realm, where nature reigns supreme and everything else falls flat.

After your hike, stop for a bowl of steaming soup and wonderful sourdough bread at Duarte's Tavern, a landmark in Pescadero since 1894. I

Opposite: Fire pits at the Ritz, a couple glasses of wine, a good book, and a view that’s worth every penny. This page, top to bottom: Pillar Point, home to Mavericks, one of the largest surfable waves on the planet; Ritz-Carlton guest room; overview of Half Moon Bay.

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With its rugged land and seascape providing a dramatic counterpoint to 5-star accommodations, Half Moon Bay satisfies all types of travelers, whether your taste runs to champagne or the local amber ale (right).

make a pilgrimage here every time I'm in Half Moon Bay. It's that good: an authentic atmosphere, friendly staff, and the most amazing cream of green chile and cream of artichoke soup (ask for half-and-half— both in one bowl).

Another great place to cool your heels is Half Moon Bay Brewing Company, where an eclectic crowd gathers to soak up the sun while sipping tasty micro-brews. Try their Mavericks Amber Ale, a chewy robust brew with a slightly sweet aftertaste.

For an upscale dining experience-and great jazz on Fridays and Saturdays, Cetrella on Main Street offers cuisine with Mediterranean roots in a rusticchic venue.

Half Moon Bay is perhaps best known as the home of the Pumpkin Festival, held every October.

This colorful event, now in its 38th year, celebrates the 3000 tons of pumpkins grown in Half Moon Bay each year. Families from all over throng to the little town in search of perfect pumpkins. And it’s no small event: This fall, planners expect upwards of 250,000 visitors.

As for me, I like Half Moon Bay in its quieter moments, when the only sound I hear is the windswept waves unfolding on the beach. Even after I've gone home, I can conjure up images of this magical town with its golden hills and foggy coastline. I just close my eyes and imagine the fresh, piney scent and daydream about my next visit. v

MENTIONED IN THE ARTICLE STAY

DINE

DRINK

RitzCarlton.com

Costanoa.com

HMBBrewingCo.com

Costanoa.com

DuartesTavern.com Cetrella.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Weddings & Anniversaries Aphrodite’s has it all. Located in beautiful downtown Ventura and committed to customer service, Aphrodite’s offers a variety of moods, sizes and budgets.

Experts in bra fittings from 30A-44 H, bustiers and corsets to size 52. Don’t forget the bridal registry, everything from high-end, designer trousseaus to naughty bachelorette part y goodies in their upstairs rec room. Visit us soon. Our Store hours are: Mon., Tues., Wed. 10:30 a.m.~5:30p.m. Thurs. 10:30a.m.~7:00 p.m. Fri. and Sat. 10:30 a.m.~9 p.m.

Sun. 11:00 a.m~5 p.m.

Welcome to Heritage Square. Heritage Square can be a very special place for your event, whether it be a wedding, reception, or rehearsal dinner. Nowhere in Ventura County can you experience the history and architectural beauty of a community in just one city block as at Heritage Square. Heritage Square Hall & Plaza along with the Square's award winning landscaping are sure to be a truly impressive setting for your function. Our facilities include Heritage Square Hall, a Ventura County historical landmark that was built in 1906 and was originally home

to the first Christ Scientist Church. This beautifully restored building includes original stained glass windows. The Hall has fixed seating for 120 people and is the perfect place for wedding ceremonies. The hall is open daily Monday through Saturday 8:00 am till 4:00 PM to view or you can make an appointment for evening viewing by calling (805) 483-7960.

Here at Jewelry Unlimited, we are certified professional jewelers. Our many years of custom design and expertise ensure that your jewelry will be of the finest quality available, expertly detailed and beautifully crafted. We pride ourselves on personal service and professional results. Our specialty is custom Jewelry Design - 'You Dream It... We Create It' The pieces shown on this page are just a small example of our dedicated efforts to our clients. Let us show you how affordable custom design jewelry can be. The designs shown are all one-of-akind custom designs. Once an item is sold it is never replicated. We welcome you to visit our store, in the Mervyn's Shopping Center (Riviera Plaza), at 47381 Telephone Road, Ventura, CA.

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: AUG 2008

AD PROOF Client: Affinity Bank

Ad Executive: Diane

(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: AUG. 2008

1st Proof

2nd Proof

FINAL PROOF (APPROVED) This proof is to check for accuracy and is not intended to show quality of reproduction.

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1st Proof

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2nd Proof

NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

Date: _______________________________ Signature: ___________________________

PERSONALITY Owner Sylvia White’s footsteps echo through the open space that characterizes her new fine art gallery in Midtown Ventura.

The Educated Eye

Who is Sylvia White, and what do es she mean to the Arts in Ventura?

BY MATT KATZ PHOTOS BY MICHAEL ROBINSON CHAVEZ

P

Passersby would never guess that the anonymous building next to a tattoo parlor in Midtown Ventura was a bellwether of the local arts scene.The sign—which reads simply,“Sylvia White Gallery”—is practically invisible.In the adjacent doorway, an inked-up lurker takes a last drag off his cigarette butt before stomping it dead beneath steel-toe Doc Martens.Curls of smoke waft further up Main Street—away from the beach, away from Downtown.

Cars whiz past without a glance.It’s not a particularly glitzy neighborhood, but to the educated eye of Sylvia White it’s a prime spot for a fine art gallery.

The new Sylvia White Gallery in Ventura is compelling not only for its unexpected Midtown location, but because it boosts the level of professionalism in a place striving to fulfill the bold moniker of “New Art City.”The interior space—all clean lines and high ceilings and uncluttered displays of internationally acclaimed artwork from the likes of Robert Rauschenberg, John Baldessari,Vija Celmins, and Ed Ruscha—belies the building’s subtle façade.

Make no mistake, this fresh addition to Midtown is a milestone in the evolution of Ventura as a cultural city.

In an effort to broaden the perspective—to break the constraints of a straight Q & A with Sylvia White—we invited three select residents of Ventura County to join our discussion: Michael Todd, a renowned sculptor who now lives in Camarillo; Elena Brokaw, the Community Services Director for the City of Ventura, who earned her MFA in fine arts from Harvard; and Alejandra Abella, a Spanish-born art lover now living in Somis.

We’ve limited the editorial voice, stripping down our questions and allowing the participants to share anecdotes and tangential remarks.

Essentially, we set the beat and let the others riff on the significance of the Sylvia White Gallery in Ventura—and whatever else fits the discourse.

VENTANA: Was the Midtown location a conscious decision?

SYLVIA WHITE: I specifically did not want to be Downtown. … I felt I needed to make a statement about being different. I knew I was taking a huge risk, but I just wanted to say, “I’m not like the galleries Downtown or on Front Street.” And that’s not to place a value judgment on anything that’s happening here in Ventura; I just wanted to do something different. … I want people to look for me. I don’t want flashy lights. If they want to find me, they will. And that was a huge distinction between Downtown and here.

I don’t rely on foot traffic; I can do my sales online and on the phone.

VENTANA: The quantum leap from L.A. to Ventura was another big statement.

SYLVIA WHITE: I’ve always wanted to have a very great gallery. And I wouldn’t have been able to do this in Santa Monica, because a lot of the artists I want to show are already represented by major L.A. galleries, or New York galleries. Michael Todd, for example, would not show with me if I were in Santa Monica. But the fact that I’m in Ventura—I can ask really big name artists to come here; I’m not a threat to the L.A. exclusivity that very established artists have. … And my husband and I were just so happy to find a city that had values that were congruent with our own. I saw Ventura bending over backward to help its artists. … Basically, I’ve spent the last 30 years helping artists learn how to manage their careers and take care of themselves in the business world. To find a whole city that is congruent with your core values is really rare.

VENTANA (To Michael Todd): As an established artist, what do you require from a gallery?

MICHAEL TODD: A certain level of professionalism is very important. There are a lot of galleries that I would consider local, or provincial, or more amateur. And then there is a professional level, which occurs in most of your major cities: Chicago, Los

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Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Washington D.C. … I need a beautiful space, and at least a decent dealer. … I don’t know if Sylvia will ever sell anything for me; my prices have gotten kind of high. But I have enough income from other sources, so I don’t have to worry too much about it.

SYLVIA WHITE: This brings up another point about why I’m doing this. I’m not really planning to sell any work. I’d love to sell work, and I think it’s a great source of validation for the artist and a great source of income for the gallery, but that’s not my reason for opening the gallery. My reason for opening the gallery is to show artists who wouldn’t show in Ventura otherwise, to raise the caliber of the artists being shown, to get some national spotlight attention in Ventura. I’m really one of the only people who can do that right now.

MICHAEL TODD: There’s a level of galleries that are very professional, and in Ventura County I can’t think of another one apart from Sylvia’s that is at that level.

VENTANA: So without this gallery you simply wouldn’t show your work in Ventura County?

MICHAEL TODD: I hate to be a snob, but…

ALEJANDRA ABELLA (To Sylvia White): When you were talking about how impressed you were with Ventura and what it was doing for the artist, you said that to find such a town is rare—you didn’t say unheard of. So who else is doing it?

SYLVIA WHITE: Seattle has set a very high precedent. Portland, too. And it’s funny, I’ve been getting emails from the city of San Pedro saying that they’re trying to follow Ventura’s lead. A Business Week article that came out several months ago called “Bohemian Today, High-Rent tomorrow” has really influenced a lot of cities to understand that maybe they are missing something if they don’t keep track of the Arts. Any artist you talk to knows that. Look at what happened to Venice. Look at what happened to SoHo. Those artists got priced out of the neighborhoods that they were responsible for creating.

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Opposite, top to bottom: Alejandra Abella, Elena Brokaw, and Michael Todd; Sylvia White at the head of the not-so-round table; White and Brokaw bid adieu. This page: The gallery’s contemporary interior space and (below) a glimpse of Michael Todd’s large-scale circle sculptures, calligraphic works that express the Zen concept of “everything and nothing.”

VENTANA (To Elena Brokaw): When did the city first start working with Sylvia?

ELENA BROKAW: She actually came here the first time in 2002 and did a career management workshop. The city retained her to do workshops and one-on-one consultations with artists. It was standing-room-only, and we brought her back a number of times. So I think she’s already part of the fabric of Ventura.

MICHAEL TODD: She’s been, for a long time, part of the fabric of Los Angeles. There were some people here for [the inauguration of the gallery] that I was really surprised to see. People from L.A. But you got them up here.

VENTANA (To Alejandra Abella): As an art lover, what do you look for in a gallery or museum?

ALEJANDRA ABELLA: I look for space. One of the things that worries me most when I go to museums is the inability to enjoy the art. There’s a dichotomy there: I’m from Europe, and we have to pay for a lot of our museums. But we also have some of the most amazing museums in the world. The Prado in Madrid is kind of the place everybody needs to go and see; it’s a bit of a Mecca.

And there are a lot less people than you’ll find here. I also lived for a long time in Washington D.C., where all of the museums are free, so you have hoards of people going through. There’s a beautiful part—that the art is open to everybody—but on the other hand, there are a lot of people just sort of cruising by what they’re looking at. I always wonder, is anything sticking?

MICHAEL TODD: Things do stick. Speaking from my own experience, when I was 18 in Chicago I saw this painter at the Art Institute, and he was just slathering paint all over the place. I was so insulted. A monkey could do that!

Within six months it had worked on my mind. Of course the painter was Jackson Pollock. My whole life now has been trying to, not make Jackson Pollock’s, but to get that freedom.

SYLVIA WHITE: Just to get back to Alejandra’s point about space: I think a lot of people don’t realize that you need physical space around the artwork to allow you to have a primary experience with it. So when you go into these galleries and there’s all mishmash millions of things on one wall, it prevents you from being able to have a primary experience with that particular piece of art.

At the opening, someone came in here and asked when I was going to put the rest of the work up. And I said, “This is it; this is the show.” I do expect to get some anger as a result of what I’m doing. I had a couple of watercolor artists come in here, and they asked, “Is this the kind of stuff you’re going to be showing?” I said, “Yeah.” And they kind of turned around and walked out.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

“When I was 18 I saw this painter and he was just slathering paint all over the place. I was so insulted. Of course [it] was Jackson Pollock. My whole life now has been trying to get that freedom.”

-Michael Todd

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A R T

+

C U L T U R E

I N

The 10th Annual Ventura County LGBT Diversity V Veennddoorr & Pride Festival SSppaaccee SStitillll le!!

A Avvaaililaabble

Saturday, August 23, 2008 11am-7pm Mission Park, Downtown Ventura For more info: www.lgbtventura.org (805) 339-6340

Come OUT and join us for an afternoon of Food Drink, Friends, Family,Live Entertainment and Fun! Children’s Activities, too!

Art Exhibits, Free Health Screenings, Vendor Booths, Community Organizations & LGBT News and Information.

Your leashed pets are welcome!

Visit our Margarita and Beer Garden! Sponsored by

Free Admission!

Open to the Public - Donations gladly accepted and encouraged!

Sponsored by Ventura County Rainbow Alliance - a non-profit 501[c]3 organization established in 1993 to inform, educate and mobilize the LGBT community of Ventura County & our friends and allies. www.lgblventura.org (805) 339-6340

Evelyn Dayman Oil paintings of colorful serenity

Ojai artist Evelyn Dayman was born in Los Angeles. She enjoys painting local scenes; sometimes traveling to Europe and Hawaii with sketchbook and camera to record scenes for future paintings.

Evelyn is a member of the Ojai Studio Artists, Buenaventura Art Association, Topa Plein-Air Painters, California Art Club, American Impressionists Society and Oil Painters of America.

Her oil paintings are in the collections of Union Oil Corp., Washington Mutual Savings Bank and Coldwell Banker’s Ojai Property Shoppe.

OJAI, CA 805-646-8778 www.evelyndayman.com

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V E N T U R A

C O U N T Y A Retail Store With A Sense Of Humour & A Social Conscience.

2 Blocks Off Ojai Ave. & A World Apart!

JOIN US the 2nd WEEKEND Each Month

Art Show • Sale

Noon-5pm On The Patio Local Arts & Crafts Intuitive Readers Great Buys From Local Artists Sat., Aug. 9 And Sun., Aug. 10

304 N. Montgomery Street Open 10:30-6:30 ~ 11:00-6:00 Sunday ~ Closed Tues. ~ 805-640-1656

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

Sylvia White has, over the past 30 years, developed a professional touch for exhibiting fine art. “You need physical space around the artwork to allow you to have a primary experience with it,” she says.

“Ventura as California’s New Art City is not about one gallery …

It’s about the common person having art in their lives every day.

Having art be relevant.”

-Sylvia White 40

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VENTANA (To Elena Brokaw): How do you think this gallery is going to affect the way people outside the city perceive Ventura?

ELENA BROKAW: This gallery is extraordinarily important at this particular time in Ventura’s evolution as a cultural city. … We’ve been working step by step with a big vision in mind, which is that Ventura will be an Art City in the California geography. But it takes a lot of little steps to get there. We have a lot of galleries in town that show local artists, but I think Sylvia is taking us up a step. A big step. And I think it’s going to make a critical difference in how people see Ventura. In fact, they will have heard of Ventura, and associate it with the Arts.

VENTANA (To Sylvia White): As a curator, what kind of artists do you find yourself drawn to?

SYLVIA WHITE: I find myself drawn to work that speaks to me. And I think that is a result of an accumulation of visual imagery that a person has over their entire lifetime. Just having a place for people to walk in and see the art—they don’t have to learn about it, they don’t have to be lectured about it—the visual stimuli does something in your brain that teaches you how to develop your eye.

MICHAEL TODD: We talk about “the eye” a lot in art, about the educated eye. Well, the educated eye is going to a lot of art exhibits.

ELENA BROKAW: One of the interesting challenges of thinking about this gallery belonging in Ventura is that there is sort of a disconnect between the general population and art. People don’t think of art as something that they can relate to, that they can do, that they can own. People are much more likely to go to Z Gallerie and buy a reproduction, partially because— and certainly this is true in Ventura—[art] does have a connotation of being exclusive and not belonging to us. … I like the way this is another gallery that anybody can come into. It belongs to all of us. Everybody is welcome. And that’s partially because [Sylvia] has an open and welcoming spirit—which I think is very important for a fine art gallery in Ventura.

SYLVIA WHITE: I know that galleries can be very intimidating. Sometimes you walk into the galleries at Bergamot Station and you feel like you’ve walked into someone’s bedroom. So I do make an effort to really make people feel comfortable here. … Ventura as California’s New Art City is not about one gallery or quality artists or museums or getting to know about art. It’s about the common person having art in their lives every day. Having art be relevant. That’s my goal, and that’s the definition of the New Art City. It’s not the art scene. It’s not artists. It’s everybody feeling that art is relevant to their lives. v

Sylvia White Gallery 1783 E. Main St.,Ventura Wed.-Sat., 12-5 p.m.

805.643.8300 SylviaWhite.com ArtAdvice.com

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Ad Executive: Kelly Tracy

VENTURA

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C h i C h i A n g e l s A p p a r e l is Ventura's hot spot for the latest celebrity favorites and unique lines not found anywhere else in the county. We carry Silver Dagger, Ed Hardy, Traffic People, Tarina Tarantino, Boy Meets Girl and proudly offer local clothing line, Good Girl Bad Girl, as seen on VH1's Rock of Love. With $25 shirts to $400 dresses, we cater to all budgets so everyone can break free from the saturated looks of chain retailers. Gorgeous dresses from London and San Francisco, affordable denim that flatters, and unique tops to help you find your perfect look. Stand in the Spotlight P r i m e S t e a k h o u s e boasts a comfortable atmosphere in a fine dining setting. The service is impeccable and the menu is delightful! We offer live Music & Dancing featuring great oldies to Top 40, to Jazz and R&B, a happy hour and our new Thirsty Thursdays. Our fully stocked bar features the finest wines available, and an extensive selection of draft beer including Newcastle, Stella Artois and Pyramid. We are open for dinner from 5pm and look forward to serving you soon! Call us at 805-652-1055 to make your reservation.

• Enjoy tastings at four exceptional wineries.

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For more information or to make reservations, call (805) 965-9463 or visit us at www.welovewines.com

TCP 22187A

MENU SAMPLING STARTERS TUNA TARTARE

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$15 OFF WITH THE PURCHASE OF TWO DINNER ENTREES NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. EXPIRES 9/30/08

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2009 E. THOMPSON BLVD. W i n e E d v e n t u r e s has been offering daily tours of the Santa Barbara 805.652-1055 Wine Country for over 6 years. We OPEN FOR DINNER SUN-THURS 5-10 PM FRI & SAT 5-11 PM are unique in that our tours focus on education. We work with our customers to ensure that everyone leaves our tours with knowledge they can2nd use going forward! Our 1st Proof Proof guides are extremely knowledgeable are well trained for teaching our FINAL PROOFand (APPROVED) customers about wine and viticulThis proof is to check for ture! accuracy and is notmore wine For those with intended to show qualityknowledge of reproduction. and experience, my guides tailor their tours to the audience in order to make it a valuable and useful tour for all. Or, those with more experience may benefit from a private tour or one of our customized AVA-specific tours. Our Wine Edventures are fully guided tours – we are not a shuttle service that drops people off to fend for themselves. We provide the personal attention and service that will make your tour more enjoyable and a memorable way to spend your day!

We take great pride in the fact that we are the most popular and most recommended tour company in the Santa Barbara region. Please join us to see why our customers return year after year!

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Wine Edventures is Santa Barbara’s original “fun and educational” guided tour. Now with daily departures from Ventura!

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The only smoking lounge in Ventura County west of the Conejo grade, S m o k e r s ' C a s t l e offers a large selection of hand made imported cigars; pipes, tobacco and smoking accessories.

Open 7 days a week from noon to 6:00 p.m. Gift certificates available and we honor VISA, MasterCard and debit cards. Ample parking in back of store, located at 1824 E. Main Street at Pacific Avenue in mid-town Ventura.

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Client: KB Roberts

VENTURA

Ad Executive: Kelly Trac

Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we 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

women’s haircut

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A brilliant statement by a prolific man, Gandhi. Let us at C e n t e r S a l o n inspire change in you- one as simple as adding fringe to frame your eyes or as exciting as change of color and texture, or reshaping the foundation of your hair cut to balance facial features and body type. Celebrate the incentive to change. Cultivating change is the seed of growth.

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Located in the heart of midtown Ventura, K . B . R o b e r t s and C a s a C a l i f o r n i a are your onestop shop for card and gifts for any occasion. Come visit us now at K.B. Roberts for our 20% off select Jewelry Spring Sale including such lines as Ashley Miller, Janice Girardi, Mystical Madness, Narcissus, Ioso and others! At Casa California, you will find a Casa Exclusive – the sought-after Two Trees Pottery by Gorky Gonzales. Available now are new shapes and designs hand decorated with Ventura County's Two Trees as depicted by reknown artisan Gorky Gonzales from San Miguel de Allende!

1st Proof

2nd Proof When working with metal clay, to save money on paste / slip file and FINAL PROOF sand(APPROVED) your masterpiece over a tray This proof is to check for andtoisyour notpaste / andaccuracy add crumbs intended to show quality slip of jar. reproduction.

You’d be surprised at how much silver is lost by not doing this! Call us at 805-643-1700 for more details and any info for your next arts & crafts project!

Cottontail Creations Art C e n t e r is a family owned and operated midtown business, located at 1744 E. Main St, Ventura.

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B illy Clower Dance S tudio has been providing quality dance instruction to children and adults of all ages and abilities for over 55 years.

Located in midtown Ventura, the studio has been owned and operated by three generations of Clower family tradition. We offer a variety of classes in tap, jazz, hip hop, ballet, tumbling, and children’s combination classes. Our instructors are highly qualified, enthusiastic, and caring. Classes run on a progressive basis from September to June and end with a spectacular dance performance in June. Check out our fall schedule online at www.billyclower.com. Don’t wait – classes fill quickly – register now by calling 643-5036.

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Client: Blue Moon

VENTURA

Ad Executive: Kelly Trac

Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we 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

Pure Pilates At East E n d strives to bring exciting new elements to the pilates experience through the use of state-of-the-art equipment, highly qualified and passionate instructors, and by providing a fully rounded course curriculum that will meet or exceed expectations at all fitness levels. We are committed to our clients and work hard to help each individual achieve his or her own personal well-being.

Call us today at 805 6722888 to be provided with Unity, Restoration and Enrichment!

B l u e M o o n is a very unique boutique for women of all ages! What makes us so special is our amazing selection of clothes and accessories at even more amazing prices. One look inside our store and you will see that we carry many of the brands and styles that other stores have for a fraction of the cost. Every week we receive a new shipment full of clothes, jewelry, shoes, hats, stockings, make-up, purses, accessories and more. Its like a new store every week! No wonder our customers keep coming 2nd back!Proof There is 1st Proof always something for everyone(APPROVED) at Blue Moon! Come by FINAL PROOF and see for and yourself!

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Call Ventura’s number one psychic as voted by the VC Reporter readers. K a t h e r i n e is pleased to offer you one free question by phone for a limited time. If you are spiritually lost and need answers Katherine can help you learn what your future holds.

Conveniently located at 1474 E. Main Street in Downtown Ventura, we accept Visa and MasterCard. Call Katherine today at 805-643-2500.

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Did you know that healthy, young skin rejunenates itself every 28 days? As we mature it takes even longer depending on our diets, lifestyle and environment.

Dead cell build-up makes skin congested, tired and dull looking! That’s why you should receive a facial at least once every 4-6 weeks. Plus…. They feel good! Call F i r e f l y S p a at 805-648-4569 to schedule your appointment today!

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SHORT LIST: THE ARTS

THE PAST ON A PLATE:THE PHOTOGRAPHS OF JOHN CALVIN BREWSTER Through August 17 | Museum of Ventura County The inaugural exhibition features rarely seen photographs and artifacts of Ventura County life between 1874 and 1909. Brewster was Ventura’s first professional photographer, and images from his glass plate negatives give a fascinating look at that time period’s streets, neighborhoods, leisure pastimes, notable residents, and ordinary citizens. Free. 89 S. California Street,Ventura.

For more information call 805.641.1876 ext 306.

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL August 8 – 16 | California State University Channel Islands Rubicon Theatre Company Summer Youth Program presents the smash pop-rock musical FOOTLOOSE.When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, Ren isn't prepared for are the rigorous local laws, including a ban on dancing. FOOTLOOSE celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people and guiding them with a warm heart and an open mind.The production is directed by Brian McDonald, choreographed by Janey Roston, with musical direction by Thom Culcasi. California State University Channel Islands, Malibu Hall, One University Drive, Camarillo.

To buy tickets online visit BrownPaperTickets.com/ event/36947. For more information call 805.667.2900 or visit RubiconTheatre.org.

KARLA BONOFF WITH KENNY EDWARDS August 9 | Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza Singer and songwriter Karla Bonoff was right there in 1969, when the first hints of the coming singersongwriter wave were coalescing around The Troubadour in L.A. Her songs composed the core of the album that secured Linda Ronstadt's superstardom, "Hasten Down The Wind." Karla went on to release three hit albums of her own and continues to perform with band mate Kenny Edwards. Karla's legacy was summed up in a review of her "All My Life" recording in Billboard Magazine: "Long before Alanis and Jewel, there was a breed of singer/songwriters whose earthly anthems of soul-searching, heartache, and joy touched souls in a way few can muster today."

Tickets available fr om Ticketmast er (805.583.8700 or TicketM ast er.com) or the Thousand Oaks C ivic A rts Plaza B ox O ffice, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd.

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AUGUST 2008

6TH ANNUAL CHANNEL ISLANDS HARBOR FINE ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW SERIES August 9 -10 | Channel Island Harbor Some of Southern California’s finest artists will display original works of art such as acrylics, etchings, photography, oils, watercolors, and sculptures.High quality ceramics, stained glass, woodcrafts, jewelry, and gift items will also be featured.Produced

by West Coast Artists, the event is presented for the benefit of the community by the Channel Islands Harbor Foundation, Inc., a California nonprofit corporation.Free.10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Corner of Channel Islands Blvd.and Harbor Blvd.at Channel Islands Harbor.

For more information call 805.985.4852.

2ND ANNUAL PICNIC & CONCERT UNDER THE OAKS August 10 | Dancing Oaks Ranch,Ojai Talented guitarist and singer John Katchur and Ojai's own Fred Schmidt will perform live at a private residence in Ojai.Katcher is a past winner of the San Diego Music Awards in the Best Folk/Acoustic category.

The artist has opened concerts for David Wilcox, Arlo Guthrie, Livingston Taylor, and others.

Schmidt is an Americana Folk singer with over 200 songs to his credit who has played with or opened for artists such as John Gorka,Townes Van Zandt, and Doc Watson.The concert will start with an hour of open mic.Kids can enjoy a trampoline, zip line, sandbox/playhouse, and hottub.Pack a blanket, a low back deckchair, a potluck dish, and bathing suits for the kids.$10 suggested donation.1-5 p.m.4585 Casitas Pass Rd., Ojai.

For more information call 805.665.8852.

MODERN MASTERS August 23 | Studio Channel Islands Art Center Three art show exhibits are opening along with a special musical benefit for The Nomadic Foundation.The Dorothy Hunter: A Retrospective exhibit will feature oil paintings that bring the emotional palette of impressionism to the world of abstract art.Carlisle Cooper’s Paintings include figurative and colorful paintings that deal with a variety of themes such as civil rights, religion, philosophy, and celebration of the arts.Leah Parrent’s bronze sculptures from a series entitled, “Organomercurial,”were created to evoke the contemplation of universal experiences that lead to life transitions.Tidawt, a musical group featuring fusion music from the Sahara Desert, will be playing.Tuareg

Jewelry will be sold as well as other arts & crafts.Admission is $25.Free to students with ID.Art shows from 4 p.m.to 6 p.m in Building 18 on Ventura St.,Camarillo (Cal State University Channel Islands).Concert is from 7-9 p.m.on the North Quad of CSUCI (just behind SCIART).

For more information call 805.383.1368.

NOW - AUG 17

FIRST ANNUAL VENTURA COUNTY BALLET COMPANY FUNDRAISING GALA August 24 | Oxnard Private Estate The Ventura County Ballet Company will host its first annual fundraising gala,“Hot August Night,”featuring legendary actress Stephanie Zimbalist and an evening o flamenco dance,ballet,and musical performances.Entertainers include Ventura County Ballet Company members, the Riviera-Sunnarborg guitar-violin duo,and Antoinette Lopez’s FlamencOle’Dance Ensemble.Guests will enjoy a silent auction,hors d’oeuvres,desserts,and refreshments.4-7 p.m.Eucalyptus Lane, Oxnard.North Victoria Ave. and Gum St. (River Ridge Golf Course entrance turnoff).

For tickets and more information call 805.653.2800.

AUG 23

AUG 24

KATHERINE HOFFMAN HALEY AWARD CELEBRATION August 24 | Spanish Hills Golf & Country Club This annual fundraising event honors community leaders and benefits Museum of Ventura County programs.This year the celebration honors Carol and Robert B.Lamb and the Lamb Family.The event includes a gourmet multi-course dinner,fine wines,and silent and live auctions featuring works by local artists.Auctions also include rare wines,private dinners,travel packages,vacation homes, and more.$200/person,4 p.m.999 Crestview Avenue,Camarillo.

For more information call 805.641.1876 ext 304.

MUSIC UNDER THE STARS: CARAVANA DANCE BAND August 30 | Olivas Adobe The 2008 "Music under the Stars" concert series will be featuring a Latin caravan of vocals,drums,congas,timbales,keyboards,guitar,and bass.Bring your own homemade feast or call 805.650.7559 by Friday noon before the concert to reserve a complete hot buffet dinner created

by BuenaVentura Catering for $13 per person.$18 for concert.Gates open for dining at 6:30 p.m.Concert is from 7:30-9:30 p.m.4200 Olivas Park Drive,Ventura.

For additional information regarding seating and meal options, or to buy tickets, call 805.658.4726.

ON THE HORIZON...

FRAGILE SANDS – HOBO JUNGLE EXHIBIT September 5 to October 12 | Bell Arts Factory One of the first conservationists and creator of the Ventura County parks system was Eugene Preston (E.P.) Foster.It was his vision and passion to plant thousands of trees in Ventura County,including the cypress and palm trees in the section of Seaside Wilderness Park known as Hobo Jungle.In a quest to revive the history of the cypress and palms,the exhibit Fragile Sands – Hobo Jungle was created.On E.P.Foster Day,the Fragile Sands project will exhibit the stunning photographs of Phil Foster Ranger Jr.,great-grandson of E.P.and Orpha Woods Foster.Also exhibiting are Bob Eckel and the curator of the exhibit,Sarah Kalvin.Art created by the children in the Fragile Sands – Kids for Conservation classes will be exhibited.An “artist in attendance”reception will be held September 5 from 5-10 p.m.Free.432 N.Ventura Ave.,Ventura.For more information call 805.653.1174.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

OJAI

E c o l o g i c L i f e in Ojai is your Resource Center for eco-friendly interior building products that enable you to create healthy and sustainable interior environments.

For most, our homes represent the biggest investment we ever make; they are a life-long focus of concern and should be a source of well being. Our homes can pollute the air we breathe and the water we drink, without our knowledge. The simple steps of creating a healthy home are some of the easiest ways we can also be “eco-friendly” to the earth.

The O j a i C u l i n a r y S c h o o l a t t h e L a v e n d e r I n n is an extraordinary setting in Ojai’s boutique Bed & Breakfast built in 1874.

Visiting chefs and local artisanal cooks offer a variety of demonstration and hands-on classes at all skill levels in the kitchen. Call 805646-6635 for reservations or to schedule a private class for parties or team-building groups. Stay-andcook packages are available for those who want to take a class and stay at the Inn. Our exquisite garden settings are an ideal venue for weddings, showers, and other special events. Visit www.lavender inn.com to see the upcoming classes and the tastefully decorated interior rooms with antiques and art.

Client: Porta Diane Newman Ad Bella Executive:

AD PROOF (805) 648-2244

Ad Executive: Wa

check this over carefully indicate all corrections You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proo indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”,Please “2nd Proof”, andproof “Final Proof”.

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1st or 2nd Proofs,(APPROVED)” AD WILL RUN ASdate IS. and If this proof meets your approval on the2008 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date f meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF box, sign at the bottom.

ISSUE: MAY

CAMARILLO C A M C o n s t r u c t i o n is a local business built upon the values of quality and trust.

Exclusive attention is what our clients receive. Chris A. McDonagh, the owner of CAM Construction, has over 20 years building experience in Ventura County.

Chris has had the pleasure of building many beautiful spaces for his clients to enjoy. To view the current projects visit on line at: www.camconstruct.com.

Marna DeVane owner of BellaPorta Décor & D e s i g n and B e l l a P o r t a G i f t s & D e c o r brings European Old World and Tuscan style to Camarillo.

Marna's excellent taste is evident in each of the two stores, as she personally selects every item at the international markets to make your life and home look more beautiful. Come by and let our talented staff help you select the perfect piece or gift.

Complimentary gift wrap and design services are available.

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 Sparks Ad JULY Executive Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your Client: approval on the 1st Photography proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: 2008 Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Fin ISSUE: AUG. 2008 Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” bo

THE

MARKETPLACE For advertising information call Nima at 805.648.2244 ext.209

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2362Date: N. Oxnard Blvd. • Oxnard ______________________________ NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS 1st Proof 2nd ProofPROOF TO www.idriveschool.com This proof PLEASE is to check for FAX accuracyTHIS and is not Date: _______________________________ OTICE: PROOF TO Dual Controlled Cars, Marked & Unmarked Cars Signature: __________________________ (805) 648-2245 ASAP NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO Da Phone FINAL PROOF (APPROVED) intended to show quality of reproduction.

M E N T I O N O U R S U M M E R S P E C IALS Readings & Avail.

Signature: ___________________________ (805) 648-2245 ASAP This proof is to check for accuracy and is not For Parties Sig (805) 648-2245 ASAP intended to show quality of reproduction. $ $ $ 30 OFF 120 OFF 80 OFF

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Oxnard Blvd. near Vineyard Just South of the 101 Fwy Insured, Bonded, Licensed CA Lic#E4304

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