November 2008

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VENTURA COUNTY’S ULTIMATE REAL ESTATE NETWORK

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Coldwell Banker Veronica Licea 302-4500 The Real Estate Company Barbara Ashby 701-3259

Coldwell Banker Julie Taylor 312-5532

Coldwell Banker Fernando Campos 218-2725 Pearl Reyes 320-8745

Select Properties Monica Hurtado 794-9902

Ventura Property Shoppe Karen Campbell 320-0225

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Re/Max Gold Coast Realtors Joe Virnig 701-5300

Troop Real Estate Don and Corina Thoresen 415-8849

Troop Real Estate Cheryle Estes 320-8132 Troop Real Estate Art Perez 340-9624 Troop Real Estate Blake Mashburn 856-9350

ERA Cusick Realty Julie Zermeno 207-8111

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ventana

CONTENTS

VOL.3 NO.6

EDITOR’S NOTE

NOV 2008

8 A Woman on Mars

F E AT U R E S PERSONALITY

41 Focus on the Women Donna Granata documents Ventura County’s top female artists

CULTURE

34 The Visionar y The Ray Bradbury Theatre and Film Foundation fans the flames of imagination

NESTING

23 The Long Road Home A remodeling odyssey in the hills of East Ventura

D E PA R T M E N T S TRAVEL

30 Sustainable Vine Reds and whites go green in Santa Barbara County

GIVING BACK

17 Social Justice Q & A: Kate McLean on the theory of creating change, not charity

COMMUNITY

10 My Florist, Downtown Ventura The Women of Jewelia throw a Thank You Party

SHOPPING

12 Holiday Hospitality How to treat your guests to a five-star home stay

SHORT LIST

49 Local Events A selective preview of happenings countywide

41

COV E R: Donna Granata at home in Casitas Springs, surrounded by the work of Ventura County artists. Photograph by Gary and Pierre Silva

ADVERTISING SECTIONS: Gifts, 14. Health & Beauty, 18.Your Home Your Castle, 22. Dining Showcase, 32. Ventura City Pages, 38. Oxnard City Page, 46. Ojai City Page, 46. Marketplace, 48. Ideal Homes, 52. 6

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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A Woman on Mars What is all this Ray Bradbury business? We’ve seen articles about him in other local publications and now Michael Kelly and John Anthony Miller have started something called the Ray Bradbury Theatre and Film Foundation (RBTFF). Don’t get me wrong: As a writer, I’m in awe of Bradbury’s fertile imagination and hyper-productivity. A telling example of both is his assertion that he started the lifelong habit of writing every day when he was 12 years old and a carnival worker named Mr. Electrico touched him with an electrified sword, shouting “Live Forever!” That was in the early 1930s. Anyway, my point is that Bradbury’s work spans decades and galaxies. So what’s the Ventura County connection? It began nearly 20 years ago in Downtown Ventura. John Anthony Miller would have Ray out to his Phantom Bookshop for public signings, and a relationship evolved out of their mutual passion for independent bookstores. Eventually, Miller joined with another local artist, Michael Kelly, who introduced the idea of spreading the gospel of the 88-year-old author through the RBTFF—now an official 501c3 nonprofit organization. Starting on page 34, new writer Amber Lennon puts a first-hand spin on the passion of Michael Kelly, ruminating on the mental processes that drive him. It’s as much a story

FOCUS ON THE WOMEN: PAGE 41

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about a local man’s vision as it is about a visionary man. But of course, Ray Bradbury is a supreme visionary. He turns the world on its head and shakes out galaxies of wacky ideas. And when just one of those stars explodes, it’s wildfire down here on planet Earth. Everything is impossible. Until it’s not. With political candidates bellowing “Drill, baby, drill!” and the stock market fluctuating like a teenage boy’s voice, we’re about due for a miracle. The country needs more than subtle change (it took punk rock to kill disco), and visionaries like Bradbury will be the answer. Our collective psyche could use something akin to the 1969 moonwalk. A man on Mars? A woman on Mars? Speaking of women doing great things… Donna Granata. I’m not referring simply to Donna as an individual—she is an accomplished photographer, painter, and educator— but to myriad local ladies whose artistic legacies will live on thanks to Donna. More precisely, thanks to Donna and Focus on the Masters, the nonprofit art appreciation program she started in 1994. In her article on page 41, Maxine Hurt refers to the old adage that behind every successful woman there’s another woman, and focuses on Granata’s mission to document and archive the best of Ventura County’s female artists. We experimented with a handful of approaches to this month’s cover. In the end, we opted to run a shot of Donna at home in Casitas Springs, surrounded by the work of local artists, including some of the women mentioned in the article. The concept of home plays a key role in Ventana, and it’s a place we rarely get to see Donna Granata. But that’s not really what appealed to us about this image. She just looks great. Even if her twin cats wouldn’t play along. Thanks again for joining us. See you next month. MATT KATZ, EDITOR MattK@VentanaMonthly.com

ventana 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 Sarah Wilcox SALES TEAM LEADER Kelly-marie Tracy CONTRIBUTORS Joan Trossman Bien Matt Kettmann Amber Lennon Jim Minics & Kelly Segre Gary & Pierre Silva Lars Wanberg Leslie Westbrook GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Bret Hooper Lindsay Worden VP NATIONAL & GROUP SALES Charles Gerencser VP OF FINANCE Michael Nagami BUSINESS MANAGER 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.



COMMUNITY

W O ME N O F JE WE L I A T H A N K YOU PA R T Y, M Y F LO R I S T, DOW N TOWN V E N T U R A

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When 13 local women all pitched in to buy a diamond necklace, a symbol of exclusivity became a symbol of sharing. The idea was that each of the “ Women of Jewelia” would have the necklace for a month and they ’d use their collective energy to improve themselves and help others. Of course they ’d all get to enjoy the bling, too. On October 23 at My Florist restaurant in Downtown Ventura, the women threw a thank you party to celebrate the generosity of their supporters and the community organizations that connect them. Copies of Cheryl Jarvis’s book “ The Necklace: Thirteen Women and the Experiment that Transformed their Lives” was available for purchase, with proceeds going to Aspiranet, the evening’s sponsor. R ather than name all the individuals in our photos, we decided to print the names of all the community groups invited to participate. The Women of Jewelia support: Asp iranet, Habitat for Humanity of Ventu ra County, Easter Seals, National Alliance on Mental Illness, CA R Egivers Volunteers Assisting the Elderl y, United Women’s Leadership Council, Coalition to End Domestic Violence, Wo rk ing Ar tists Ventura ( WAV ) , M i racle House, Ventura County Community Foundation Women’s Legac y Fund, Catholic Ch arities, The Sal vation Ar my, R ally for a Cu re, United Way of Ventura Cali fo rn ia, Father Singh’s Bus Project, S egue Ca reer Guidance Pr ogram, Ventu ra Social S e rvices Task Fo rce, Ar t Ci ty Studios, Ventura Botanical Ga rdens, St. B onaventure Academic Enrichment Group, Food Sh are.

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PHOTOS BY GARY AND PIERRE SILVA


NOVEMBER 2008

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Holiday Hospitality They’re back once again: the holidays and the guests they inevitably bring. This year, why not offer your overnight visitors a five-star home stay experience, complete with a cashmere robe hanging in the closet and luxe bath products at their disposal. Sure, they may never want to leave. But at least they won’t have anything to complain about. Here are a few amenities to make them feel like the cherished guests they are. (Note: Any of these items would make an ideal gift.)

SHOPPING

BY MAXINE HURT PHOTOS BY JIM MINICS AND KELLY SEGRE

Sleeping Beauty Silk Eye Mask, $38 at Mrs. Jones Boudoir

A Soft Idea For Home Throw, $85 at Kava

Dream Rock, $10 at Kava Caron Joy Short Cashmere Robe, $350 at Mrs. Jones Boudoir

Small Starfish and Butterfly Soaps, $1.50 each at Kava

Lollia Life: Wish Foaming Bubble Bath, $50; Wish Petite Perfumed Luminary, $34; Wish Bathing Salts, $28.00; Believe Wrapped Soaps, $12 each at Plum

Beatriz Ball Handmade Metallic Tray, $99 at Kava

Kava Home, Garden & Gifts: 212-A East Ojai Avenue, Ojai, 805.640.0491 Mrs. Jones Boudoir: 2068 Ventura Boulevard, Camarillo, 805.484.9800 Plum Accessor y Gift Boutique: 401 East Main Street,Ventura, 805.641.0113 Rosie Lee Impor ts: 673 East Main Street,Ventura, 805.643.5832 7 12

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Taylors of Harrogate Pure Assam Leaf Tea, $9.50 at Rosie Lee Imports London Pottery Farmhouse Filter two-cup Teapot, $26.50 at Rosie Lee Imports


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

AD PROOF Ad Executive: Marni Howe

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

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NOVEMBER 2008

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GIVING BACK

Social Justice

T

Kate M cLean on the theor y of creating change, not char it y

BY JOAN TROSSMAN BIEN

They had one in Santa Barbara. Los Angeles, too. But until recently Ventura County was without a social justice fund—a new generation of community-driven philanthropy. Bringing together the resources of a Giving Circle of progressive donors and the organizing power of grassroots groups, the Social Justice Fund for Ventura County works to determine real solutions to poverty and inequality.

2008 Social Justice Fund for Ventura County Grantees $5,300 to CAUSE as the fiscal sponsor for Arts for Action for the Media Justice Program, which provides youth with training and access to industry standard media production equipment. CoastalAlliance.com $8,000 to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County for continued support of the One Step A La Vez youth-lead community action project, which provides youth leadership training and development. BBSVC.org $5,000 to Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) for continued support of the Empowering Neighborhoods through Systems Change project. CabrilloEDC.org $7,700 to Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) for the Central Coast Organizing Project, a regional grassroots community organizing effort to build and bridge relationships among various entities. CoastalAlliance.com $10,000 to Mixteco/Indígena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) to support efforts in mobilizing farm worker communities to continue with the work achieved through the Poder Popular: Giving Voice to Mixtec Farm Workers Program. Mixteco.org $7,700 to CAUSE as the fiscal sponsor for Ventura County Clergy & Laity United for Economic Justice (VC CLUE) to support efforts in educating, mobilizing, and training leaders and members of congregations and religious associations to advocate for social justice issues in the county. CoastalAlliance.com $6,300 to Ventura County Rainbow Alliance for the Equality Ventura County Project, which will provide public education and community organizing on California’s implementation of marriage equality for same-sex couples. VCRainbowAlliance.org

What is your involvement with the Social Justice Fund for Ventura County? I was the president of the Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF), and one of the things I became aware of in doing all the grants was that we did not have the funding in Ventura County for the kind of grassroots, community-organizing advocacy work that really can create change in a community. I was one of the people involved in the early planning of this fund. How is a social justice fund different from other nonprofits? In addition to having been the president of the VCCF for 13 years, I was the executive director and one of the founders of Interface Children Family Services. I started the first battered women’s shelter, the first child abuse shelters, and did pretty traditional social services working through a great organization serving Ventura County. But in all of my 30-some years in the nonprofit world, I realized that as a grant-maker and somebody who delivered services, we continued to deal with same problems year after year: teen pregnancy, drug abuse, alcoholism, homelessness. No matter how hard we worked to solve those problems, no matter how much money we gave to deal with them, we continued to have the problems. That’s why we say, ‘Creating change, not charity.’ We think charity has an important place in our community; we must take care of the person who is in need right now. But we also needed someone who could

stand back and say, ‘Can we make some kind of system changes so they never get in trouble?’ That’s what I think a social justice fund does. When you looked at other counties that had social justice funds, did you see them making a real difference? Oh yes. When you looked at how it was changing people’s lives, it was dramatic. For example, in L.A., organizing bus riders to change transportation patterns so people could get to work and get home from work. And neighborhoods that were able to organize to get rid of houses of prostitution or crack houses. Changing the neighborhood so kids could go out and play in the street. One of our first grants last year was helping a neighborhood get streetlights so the children could go outside and play and the parents would feel it was safe. When you look at this year’s recipients, is there one broad stroke that you could give that made all of these groups stand out? They all had as a core both value and technique—what we call community organizing, which is empowering the people who are affected by community issues to make changes in their own communities. Whether those communities were geographical, or communities of people who shared common problems. v For more on the Social Justice Fund for Ventura County log onto SocialJusticeFundVC.org. Visit the Ventura County Community Foundation online at VCCF.org.

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ing lighter tissue around the mouth. Eyeliner should contain both, a lash enhancement and an upper liner. A client should never have a f loating line above the lash line, it should look connected and once again, natural. A make-up artist and a person who understands the color wheel and how each color chosen will interact with a client’s normal pigmentation should be an important factor when choosing an artist. Experience is another essential factor.....remember you get what you pay for, so don’t make the mistake of being a practice "dummy." Consultations are free! Sincerely, Rachel Rowen

Permanent Make-up or micro-pigmentation is an art form. It is essentially just like a normal tattoo however, the inks used are made of special formulations for the face. Permanent makeup is not a substitute for regular makeup. As such is should be designed to be a subtle, natural enhancement. P u e b lo R a d i o l o g y M e d i c a l G r o u p , This is to say, that the brows should Inc. is a single specialt y medical be f lecked in naturally not stenciled like "Barbie." Lips should be done soft group that utilizes diagnostic x-ray, and natural so that the client still has diagnostic ultrasound and other types the option to make them dark for an of medical devices (CT and MRI). All evening out. Never have an artist talk of our radiologists are licensed by the you into painting outside the vermilState of California to practice mediAD PROOF lion of the lip lines to get a larger lip cine as physicians and surgeons (as are look! This can be achieved without all other doctors in the state). In addiClient: Pueblo Radiology Ad Executive: Kelly Tracy (805) 648-2244 the "ring around the mouth." Pigment tion, each of our doctors has completPlease checktakes thisdifferently 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 in different skin, the ed a post-graduate program of special Proofs, AD lips WILL AS from IS. Ifthethis proof meets your inapproval onRadiology the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: JULY 2008 areRUN different surroundtraining the field of and

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H E A LT H

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this proof over and carefully and indicate all receive corrections clearly. You will a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If nd indicate all corrections clearly. You will havePlease a “1st check Proof”, “2nd Proof”, “Final Proof”. If we no proof after the 1sthave or 2nd AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof youratapproval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and si oof meets your approval on the 1st proof, checkProofs, off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, datemeets and sign the bottom. ISSUE: AUG 2008

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GRAND OPENING Saturday, November 15th Noon to 4:00 p.m.

food • drinks • raffles • music

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY AT 2:00 P.M. Located in Historic Old Town Camarillo 2465 E. Ventura Boulevard 805.482.9000

(At the Lewis exit on the 101 freeway next to JJ Brewsky’s)

Wallpaper is back and D a n d y W a l l s , a new store in Historic Old Town Camarillo, has it. Time Magazine says wallpaper is “hip” and the “latest passion” of interior designers. Today’s wallpaper is fashionable and unique. In addition to striking and bold patterns and colorways, flocking, beads, sand, crystals, and natural textures are in vogue and offer a new dimension to the wallpaper we remember from years past. Dandy Walls offers both in-stock and custom-order wallpaper. Design consulting services are available. Store hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10-5. We are located next to J.J. Brewsky’s at 2465 E. Ventura Blvd. (805) 482-9000. West Coast Sash & Door I n c . has been providing Ventura County and beyond with the finest products and services for 19 years. The knowledgeable staff at WCSD will provide you with choices

and solutions, tailored to you and your home. We employ our own installation crew with years of experience installing our premium products. West Coast Sash & Door is the complete one-stop window and door store. The enormous showroom carries a vast selection of manufactures and hundreds of interactive displays. A large part of our success is due to our returning customer base. We are open on Saturdays and look forward to meeting you. Stuart’s Barbeque & Fireplace Design Center: Helping to create special memories. “The heart of the home is where people gather for special times and magical moments – by the barbie and the fireplace. An essential ingredient behind magical memories is selecting the right equipment and creating the right setting.” – Stuart and Karen McDonald, owners. Visit Stuart and his staff at


NESTING

The Long Road Home

Ear thquakes couldn’t shake their resolve. Tor rential storms didn’t damp en their spir its. For Ken and Charlie Kipps, a remo deling o dyssey in East Ventura has b een a true lab or of love.

BY LESLIE WESTBROOK PHOTOS BY GARY AND PIERRE SILVA

A

“A lot of f olks have toys: condos in Asp en, RVs,” says Ventura native Ken Kipp. “We have this house. We love it here, and we love entertaining.” Ken and his wife, Charlie, are thankful now, but they had no idea of the challenges that lay ahead in 1996 when they purchased their dream home in the hills of East Ventura. From day one, they were sold on the view—a compelling panorama that strikes anyone visiting the remodeled three-bedroom, four-bath house. And the two-acre lot was tempting as well. Unfortunately, they discovered first-hand what lay beneath the surface of those two acres, thanks to a series of major winter storms and an earthquake. The remodeling odyssey that awaited them in the coming years would have overwhelmed most couples. But the Kipps aren’t your average couple. Hard work and perseverance, not to mention a lot of creative thinking and suggestions from family, friends, and professionals, helped them realize their vision, which remains a work in progress 12 years later. “We knew we wanted to stay in Ventura, and we wanted a house that represents the region’s lifestyle,” says Ken, a third generation resident of Ventura County. No stranger to challenges, the former Ventura County Deputy Chief and his lovely wife (the couple met while they were both working for the Sheriff’s Department) took on the project with gusto. Their house odyssey began in March 1996, when they immediately began demo work on the hill. It was a year of heavy storms on the West Coast. “We were completely exposed,” Ken recalls. On several occasions they were up all night pumping water. They rebuilt the hillside using a D4 Tractor

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The contemporary home’s clean styling (left) belies years of hard work. Now it’s the kind of place everyone enjoys, including (above) Ken and Charlie Kipps and their oenophile retriever, Sophie Belle. At night (right), the ocean view gives way to a spectacular Ventura County electric show.

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to repack the soil, and re-landscaped over an acre with drought tolerant deep rooting plants. Charlie’s scrapbook from the time period is aptly named “The Deck from Hell.” The large patio, now used for entertaining, was once a pool. But that had to be demolished after suffering a large crack during the earthquake of 1994. Guests enjoying a margarita and the view from the rebuilt bench steps—complete with a fiber optic system that illuminates the stairs at night—have no idea that the area once consisted of huge cavities between the fascia wall and the pool interior. To stabilize the hillside, they used some unique building techniques suggested by Ken’s dad, a retired Navy Seabee: “He told me that when he was in Alaska building landing strips on the tundra, they put down big sheets of Styrofoam with a sand base to support the weight, and put concrete over the top. I thought, ‘Why couldn’t we do that here?’ Charlie looked at me like I was crazy … and then she said, ‘That could work.’” Ten huge blocks of Styrofoam were used to fill the pool and cavities, taking up volume. Next came the sand, and then the six-inch concrete deck, reinforced with rebar, saving the Kipps “a ton of money,” as well as a ton of weight on the hill. They may have saved money filling in the pool, but


then there was the new roof, new electrical, plumbing, Wi-Fi, and hardware to deal with. Two new concrete and landscaped side yards were created to evacuate any water away from foundation. “Then we got to the remodel,” laughs Charlie, “a year and a half ago.” The remodel—which included going down to the studs, new floors, drywall, paint, lighting, ceilings, windows, and fixtures—was completed in just four months. The couple also rebuilt the existing bar in the living room and added all new furniture and appliances. To assist with the interior decorating and remodel, they enlisted Shirley Carpenter of Magnolia Interiors. “We asked for her help not only because we liked what she did in other projects, but her taste is excellent and she has sub-contractors that have worked with her for a long time and know how she does things,” says Charlie. “I had a ton of pictures, and we had certain ideas about what we wanted in the way of furniture, design, built-ins, colors, and styles. Shirley had the resources.” Still, the house is not finished; the list seems to grow even as the Kipps check off completed projects. Some would say it’s the house from hell. Ken rattles off a list of chores-to-do: a new driveway, garage doors, a small deck with a Jacuzzi off the back bedroom. Enough to rattle any homeowner. But for the Kipps it’s a true labor of love. As Ken puts it, “We saw the great potential and looked beyond all the warts.” v

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YOUR HOME...

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

From high style to everyday brilliance...

...you’ll find it at • FREE IN HOME ESTIMATES • QUALITY INSTALLATION

Y O U R their recently renovated showroom at 1700 E. Ventura Blvd, Suite D, Oxnard, or call 805485-0535. 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 805-983-1735 for a free estimate.

throughout Ventura County and is owned and operated by Colm and Anita Fitzgerald. "Our goal is to achieve the highest level of customer satisfaction with our integrity and care." Being outdoor enthusiasts Colm and Anita use only Eco-Friendly solutions and donate to a water charity. "We want to give back to those in need and make the world a better place through our business." "Windows so clean you'll think they're open!"

For Your Home Furniture has been at the same location in historic Downtown Ventura since 1976. Their huge two story showroom has all categories of furniture- Bedroom, Living Room, Home Office, Entertainment, Sofas and Recliners, Mattresses as well as hundreds of lamps and accessories. They also display one of the largest selections of quality Arts and Warre Ad Executive: Crafts “2nd style furniture in Proof”. I Proof”, Proof”, and “Final

• EXCELLENT SERVICE Come visit our showroom at 1922 Palma Dr. in Ventura or T h e C l e a r C h o i c e provides Call us at (805) 644-4902 residential and commercial Client: Woodcraft Shutters cleaning services fax (805) 644-0206 Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all correctionswindow clearly. You will have a “1st Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and www.wcsd1.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

C A S T L E California. They specialize in furniture that can be built to order in choice of woods and finishes so you can get exactly what you want. They deliver in their own trucks all over the Southland and can ship anywhere. See ad on Page 27. Malinowski

&

T o d d is

pleased to feature the “PLAY OF LIGHT”, a collection of 10 new oils by Elain Thompson. With each of these new paintings, it is her hope to capture the play of light and shadow caught in a brief moment. As her premiere retailer, we have the largest selection of Elain’s original work. In addition,

Dirty Windows? Fast, Friendly and Reliable!

805.625.4729 theclearchoicewindows.com “Windows so CLEAN... You’ll think they are OPEN”

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YOUR HOME...

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Y O U R Malinowski & Todd offers a unique collection of fine furniture, home and outdoor décor, iron garden accessories and eco-friendly products. Malinowski & Todd, established in 2004, is located at 1725 Main St. in Midtown Ventura. (805) 643-2002. With your design needs and Tile desires in mind, E n c o u n t e r s has developed the capabilities to better serve you. We are dedicated to excellence through providing you with outstanding customer service, quick turnarounds and the lowest competitive prices in the flooring industry. And, most importantly, your 100% satisfaction. Come visit our new showroom today to make your dream home interior become a reality! K i t c h e n P l a c e s has been quite busy lately … even in these economic times. Three of their projects were featured

in theNKBA Tour of Kitchens last month. Their “Man Cave,” was the biggest hit – a garage they remodeled to create additional living space with room for a plasma TV, concealed storage, laundry center and a bar. The garage also functions as a place to park cars – big surprise – and Santa Barbara Auto Group displayed a Smart car fortwo as a bonus. This month you can catch them at The Green Living Expo, November 15th and 16th, at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Admission to that event is free and you will learn about how easy it is to remodel and be green. No time? Stop by their innovative showroom located at 4125 Market Street, Suite 1 in Ventura or call 805-658-0440. Kitchen Places is the remodeling company who ensures that your place is their passion. Is your Kitchen Countertop Ugly? Does your bathroom need a facelift? Do you want


SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

C A S T L E

ons

to install a new countertop but hate the demolition? Would you love the look of granite but not the maintenance? Do you love the quality of engineered stone? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you Granite need T r a n s f o r m a t i o n s ™ , The Countertop That Fits On

Top®! Granite Transformations’ satisfied customers love to show off their kitchens and bathrooms! To see why they are excited, visit our showroom at 3837 Market Street in Ventura or call 805.275.1082 for a FREE in-home consultation. Can’t stop by? Visit our web site at www.GTVentura.com.

AD PROOF Ad Executive: Warren Barrett

(805) 648-2244

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

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Featuring


T R AV E L

A Taste of Green

Reds and whites have gone green in Santa Barbara County, where Sustainable Vine Wine Tours offers a biodiesel-powered cruise through the region’s eco-friendly vineyards.

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BY MATT KETTMANN PHOTOS BY LARS WANBERG

Keep abreast of the appropriate astrological alignments. Bury manure-filled cow horns on strategic corners of your property during the autumnal equinox. Spray your crops with the ashes of dead animals to ward off future infestations. Harvest your fruit only when the moon hits the right lunar phase. No, these aren't the mad machinations of a lone farming freak; they're the basics of biodynamic agriculture, a method of sustainable farming that's exploding in popularity worldwide, despite its seemingly wacky ways. And much like the move away from pesticides and toward organics, there's no place biodynamics is catching on faster than in the vineyards of California. Now, wine tasters from Ventura County can make the short drive to Santa Barbara and meet the region’s maverick makers of green wine—both those working in biodynamics and certified organics—thanks to a new company called Sustainable Vine Wine Tours. "We try and demystify the process," says owner Bryan Hope, who founded the company after hearing about the organic techniques of longtime local grape-grower and California pinot noir pioneer Richard Sanford. "I started realizing that there is an interesting behind-the-scenes story," says Hope, a casual surfer type who had been working in the green building industry, "and that winemaking in general was unknown to the average wine drinker." The more he started researching, the more he realized the potential for

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a unique tour, one unlike anything else in the wine country of Santa Barbara County. Since the first trip, Hope has developed a blossoming relationship with local growers, and his company has enjoyed packed tours to the greenest purveyors of red and white in the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Rita Hills. The early accolades are well deserved: His tours—conducted, of course, in a biodiesel-powered van—offer a more intimate, informative, and fun look at winemaking, giving behind-the-scenes insight into both age-old winemaking methods and the latest green-growing techniques. "On each tour I try to go to at least one stop where you're face to face with someone in a vineyard or in an actual winery," explains Hope, who customizes tours by getting the low-down on who's doing what and where each day. "So it's more of a personal experience, not just standing three-deep at a tasting bar." Everyday wine fans will come away with something more than just a midday buzz, and even the snobbiest wino in your group will learn something new. (Trust me, I'm that guy and I learned quite a bit.) A typical tour starts around 10:30 a.m. when Hope picks you up in Santa Barbara. Around 11 a.m., you're cresting the San Marcos Pass on Highway 154 and dropping into the bucolic Santa Ynez Valley, where rolling hills studded with majestic oaks slide up toward Figueroa Mountain. By noon, you're pulling into the first winery, which will be one of six that Sustainable Vine currently visits, including the syrah masters at Beckmen


Vineyards; the certified organic growers at Presidio Winery; and the Provencal-themed Sunstone Winery, surrounded by one of the largest organic vineyards in Santa Barbara County. But most tours start at the Demetria Estate, a biodynamic vineyard and winery hidden on winding back roads and open by appointment only. Run by the charismatic John Zahoudanis, whose Greek heritage lives in his accent and zest for life, Demetria went biodynamic in 2005 and immediately noticed a positive change in their Rhonebased varietals. (They also make pinot noir and chardonnay sourced from other vineyards.) Zahoudanis, who chats with wine-sipping visitors in their kitchen before showing them into the tank room, is an ardent believer in the philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, the Austrian who invented biodynamic agriculture in the 1920s by treating farms as complete, self-sufficient organisms. Biodynamic praise (and Greek influence) also comes a few minutes down the road from the Santa Rita Hills appellation, where a former corporate businessman named Peter Work owns the uber-eco Ampelos Cellars (ampelos means vine in Greek). Work, who's Danish and runs Ampelos with his American wife, Rebecca, and son, Don, gives a hands-on tour of his vineyard, where irrigation is powered by gravity, insects are given sanctuary during vineyard operations, and all grape scraps are used as compost. The jovial Work will then sit down with tour-goers under his big oak tree for a wine-soaked lunch from New Frontiers, a green-minded deli in nearby Solvang whose sandwiches are made from free-range poultry, wild caught fish, and organic veggies and served in biodegradable packages. For the last stop, Hope brings his guests back to where it all started: Alma Rosa Winery, run by Richard Sanford, who was the first to plant pinot noir in the Santa Rita Hills and became an ecowarrior long before it was fashionable. Like the other winemakers, Sanford has been supportive of Sustainable Vine from the get-go. "[The winemakers] were stoked on the fact that what I wanted to do was in line with what they were doing," says Hope, explaining that they wanted to be lighter on the land and more responsible in their agriculture. But don't just take Hope's word for it. "I think that Bryan has done a tremendous job," said Sanford recently, in between flights to wine dinners in Texas and Miami. "He's done a great service by bringing awareness to alternative ways of being in agriculture sustainably and responsibly. And it's very cool. It's something we should all become aware of." v

The Sustainable Vine experience is considerably more relaxed than what you’ll find at most tasting bars. Group tours, in particular, inspire wine-fueled camaraderie. At right, owner Bryan Hope stands in as bartender. Opposite: Pouring biodynamic chardonnay at Demetria.

Sustainable Wine Tours SustainableVine.com Group tours: $125 per person (tour groups may be combined) includes door-to-door service, complimentary wine tastings from each winemaker visited, and gourmet picnic lunch. For more details and information about private tours, visit the website or call 805.698.3911. NOVEMBER 2008

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SPECIAL DINING ADVERTISING SECTION

Craft Beer and great food in Old Town Camarillo At JJ Brewsky’s we are blessed to be surrounded with some of the most fertile farmland in the country. Where, and when, possible, we buy our produce, meat and seafood from local farmers, ranchers and mongers. Check out our new Sierra Nevada steamers or our Pan Seared Ahi Tuna Filet, just a couple of examples of our fabulous food. We serve an extensive selection of craft beers made by micro brewers from Southern California. This allows us to provide the freshest beer available and support the efforts of local artisans striving to make better beer. We currently have 20 craft beers on Draught and 34 bottled beers from around the world. JJ Brewsky’s features live entertainment every weekend with no cover charge. We book bands based in Ventura County and support local music festivals. You might even see one of our talented staff members perform! Check out our website, www.jjbrewskys.com, for a complete schedule of live entertainment. We are proud to be located in the historic Lewis and Sons building, the oldest commercial building in Camarillo. An important part of the Camarillo economy since its construction in 1916, it has housed the Stein and Talley department store, a jail, a bank, a movie theatre, a book store, The Ski Hut and The Dutch Inn. Most of our owners have longstanding family and community ties to Camarillo and are proud to call this area our home. We are active in the community and support our schools and philanthropic organizations. We like to be accessible to our guests and we AD PROOF won’t hesitate to greet you and listen to your comments and concerns. Whether you live in Camarillo, the surrounding area or are just passing through, we Client: Yolandas Ad Executive: Marni Howe (805) 648-2244 like to provide our guests a fun, comfortable place to enjoy quality food and drink, 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 entertainment and proof good company. We approval hope to see 2433 Ventura Proofs, AD WILL RUNand ASsports, IS. If this meets your onyou thesoon! 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: NOV. 2008 Blvd. Camarillo, CA 93010 Phone: (805) 482-5249

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AD WILLPROOF RUN (APPROVED)” AS IS. If thisbox, proof meets your on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, dat proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, Proofs, check off “FINAL date and sign atapproval the bottom. NOV. 2008 ISSUE:

THE “GASTRONOMIC STIMULUS” PACKAGE • Appetizer • Entree • Dessert

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AD PROOF

(Brooks “Classic” menu selections only) AD PROOF Client: O-Sabi Japanese Restaurant Ad Executive: Peter Burgi (805) 648-2244 Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all correctionsCLASS clearly. You a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd ~ HOLIDAY COOKING ~ will have Ad Executive: Kelly Tracy (805) 648-2244

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: NOV. 2008 November - Call to“2nd reserve yourand seat“Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd refully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a15th “1st Proof”, Proof”, If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: SEPT. 2008 545 East Thompson Blvd. | Ventura | www.restaurantbrooks.com | 805.652.7070

Let Us Cater Your Next Event!

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s not on.

NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO Date: _______________________________ Signature: ___________________________ (805) 648-2245 ASAP 2nd Proof s &Proof o o d1st C ne

W

reative Cuisi F i n e GOURMET F FINAL PROOF (APPROVED) This proof is to check for accuracy and is not i t h SANDWICHES intended to show quality of reproduction.

S OUPS & F RESH S ALADS

NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO Date: T E P P A N Y A K I (805) 648-2245 ASAP S U S H I B A R Signat

B USINESS L UNCHES W EDDINGS B RIDAL S HOWERS H OLIDAY PARTIES

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nd Proof

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F UL L S ER VI CE B A R C ome In An d En joy A n O- Sa bi S ign a tur e Cock ta il V ic tor ia A ve.

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FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)

Reservations for Teppan Dining Recommended

5795 Walker St. Ventura (805) 642-6200 www.o-sabi.com NOVEMBER 2008

2nd Proof

This proof is to check for accuracy and is not

H O U R S O F OP ER A T I O N Lu n ch: Mon. - Fri. 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Di nn er : Mon. - Thurs. 5:00 - 9:30 p.m. Fri. & Sat. 5:00 - 10:30 p.m. Sun. 4:30 - 9:00 p.m.

NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO

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Date: _____________________________


CULTURE

The Visionary

From his 1939 fanzine Futuria Fantasia to the 2008 Ojai Film Festival, Ray Bradbury has lit the fires of the imagination—and the newly established Ray Bradbury Theatre and Film Foundation aims to keep the flames alive.

BY AMBER LENNON

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Whether you know him as the author of the book-burning novel Fahrenheit 451 or the candidly insightful predictor of future events in The Martian Chronicles, you’ll soon have an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Ray Bradbury. With over 500 published works, the celebrated science fiction and fantasy writer has explored the cultural milieu of the technological advances of the 20th century and beyond like no one else. “There are scientists who say they wouldn't have become scientists if it weren't for Ray Bradbury,” says Michael Kelly, a Ventura artist and co-founder of the new Ray Bradbury Theatre and Film Foundation (RBTFF). In fact, Wehrner Von Braun, widely considered the father of NASA, said that Bradbury “had it all figured out long ago,” referring to the future of space exploration. On November 8, the Ray Bradbury Theatre and Film Foundation, in collaboration with the Ojai Film Festival, will celebrate the author’s unparalleled vision, honoring him with a lifetime achievement award. “He is the most important living writer, an icon, a dreamer,” says David Shor, a board member of the RBTFF and the Chairman of this year’s Ojai Film Festival. “Ray has had tremendous impact on the performing arts, as well as inspiring the likes of Spielberg and the founder of Intel.” Michael Kelly and John Anthony Miller founded the RBTFF to develop an internationally recognized festival that represents the author’s work and inspires future generations of writers, scientists, and visionaries. Miller is actually the one responsible for first bringing Bradbury to Ventura County. The owner of Phantom Bookshops— formerly in Downtown Ventura, and now online at Phantoms.com— Miller would have Bradbury in the store for book signings. Passionate about independent bookstores such as Phantom, Bradbury was always willing to contribute his time and energy, and the relationship has continued for nearly 20 years. Aside from the Foundation's involvement in film festival agendas, Michael Kelly has larger plans for expanding Bradbury's vision. I met with him at his California Pottery and Tile Works studio (another creative endeavor for Kelly) in Midtown Ventura. It's a small courtyard behind an old wooden gate, and as I walk in it’s like being transported to a European village. The walkway is bordered with tiles glazed in aqua and antiquity gold that glints like gems. Kelly welcomes me to a round table in the meeting room and motions for me to sit in an oversized queen chair. Looking around, I immediately sense that Kelly is a time traveler himself, a likely character in one of Ray Bradbury's books. On one hand, he has immersed himself in the Old World art of tile making, and his passion for this

“I'm still a 12-year-old, and this 12-year-old in here is writing all these books.” —Ray Bradbury

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pursuit is evidenced in every corner of the room. But as I take in tile murals and Mexican curios, a cache of movie posters, books, and movie reels catches my eye. Handwritten in permanent black are movie and book titles known for their futuristic messages: The Illustrated Man, A Sound of Thunder, Fahrenheit 451, and The Martian Chronicles, among others. Bradbury's work in the midst of such an antiquated craft as pottery and tile work poises Michael Kelly with one foot in the future and one in the past. Sitting across from Kelly as he details the scope of the RBTFF, I feel like I'm watching a child at show-and-tell; excitement percolates in his voice. “We've got real 3D technology,” he says, his eyes widening, “without 3D glasses!” The Foundation is developing an educational project based on Bradbury's work that will target five- to 12-year-olds. One of Bradbury's goals is to introduce younger children to high concept education (such as astronomy and physics), something typically reserved for older students. But Bradbury believes that before the age of 12, the imagination has not yet been hardened by the approaching expectations of adulthood. Presented from a converted semi-truck with an inflatable 3D theater, the traveling display will provide interactive educational/arts programming for public and private schools across the nation—not just Ventura County. “It's going to be absolutely stunning,” Kelly says. At this year’s Ojai Film Festival, a screening of an interview between Bradbury and Michael Kelly's 12-year-old son, Devin, provides a rare glimpse into the writer's mind. “I'm still a 12-year-old,” Bradbury muses to his seventh-grade interviewer, “and this 12-year-old in here is writing all these books.” Inspired by watching his son’s interview, Kelly wrote a two-hour play entitled We Are Born. Three actors portray Bradbury at three ages: his present age of 88, as a young boy, and as a teenager. The performance will utilize 3D technology to show the writer's influences from the time he was a child. The three Bradbury actors will have dialogue with one another, an idea that Bradbury himself has approved with much enthusiasm. “Whatever talents I have and experiences I've had, the Foundation gives them a focus and I'm able to produce something important,” says Kelly. These future works of the Ray Bradbury Theatre and Film Foundation represent only the beginning of a tremendous undertaking—with the ultimate goal of initiating youths into the realm of creative invention. Bradbury insists that “the universe is alive.” And it’s no mystery how this American icon has captured the imagination of so many. v Top: Michael Kelly with Ray Bradbury; middle: the iconic author with 12-year-old interviewer Devin Kelly; bottom: John Anthony Miller and Bradbury with (in back, l. to r.) Miller’s wife, Katie Crawford, and Devin and his mom, Giselle Kelly. Photos by Giselle and Michael Kelly.

Connec tin g Ar t & Science

A universe of Ray Bradbury info is available online at RayBradbury.com. R ay B ra d b u r y T h e at r e & Fi lm Fo u n d ati o n For more on the RBTFF, visit RayBradburyFestival.com T h e B ra d b u r y B o u ti q ue Rare books, paraphernalia, signed copies, and memorabilia. Nov. 7-8 at the Ojai Arts Center, 113 W. Montgomery, Ojai. O ja i Fi lm Fe s t i va l For details on events and showings, log onto OjaiFilmFestival.com. Tickets available on the website and at the following locations: Nov. 3 - 5 Ojai Film Festival Box Office, 111 Topa Topa St., Ojai, 805.640.1947 Nov. 6 - 8 Ojai Valley Inn & Spa, Shangri La Cottage ($300 Gold Pass, good for all screening and parties, available only at the Inn.) Nov. 8 Ojai Arts Center, 113 W. Montgomery, Ojai Tickets also available on location at screenings, $10 based on availability.

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

Caffe

Bella

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Italian flourishes meet Irish hospitality Visit www.myspace.com/caffebella for Live Music Calendar

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We’ll be closed for the holiday Thursday, November 27th

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Client: Prime

Here for the holidays…the “Best of Bella” music cd. Call Bella to host your holiday party.AD PROOF No

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Cover 79Ad S California Ventura Executive:St, Kelly Tracy• (805) 643-2171 (805) 648-2244 Charge

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 Coming Soon - box, Beatrice Art. Presented by Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” date andWood sign at the bottom. ISSUE: NOV. 2008

Queen Stella Cigars. Check out MamaOfDada.com

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1st Proof 2nd Proof VotedraBEST NEW RESTAURANT & TOP STEAKHOUSE

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T HE U LTIMATE IN A MBIENCE

NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO Date: ________ Signature: ____ (805) 648-2245 "THE ASAP BEST OF PRIME" 4 COURSE DINNER ONLY $29 PER PERSON:

1ST COURSE: Lusty black mussels in a sweet cream vermouth sauce, tuna tartare, or large gulf shrimp in a spicy scampi sauce 2ND COURSE: Your choice of caesar salad, prime house salad or our steakhouse wedge 3RD COURSE: Our Signature Prime Rib, Flat Iron Steak served with braised red wine onions and blue cheese, or Stuffed Salmon with spinach, serano pepper, cream, onion and tomatoes 4TH COURSE: Your choice of any of our 10 made from scratch sides including asparagus, twice baked potato, six mac and cheese!

Bring in this ad and receive the "Best of Prime.”

Not valid on Thursday or Sunday. No corkage allowed with this offer. Good thorugh November 30.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Client: Ventura Psychic

VENTURA

Ad Executive: Warre

Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and

Pure Pilates At East End strives to bring exciting new elements to the Pilates experience through the use of state-of-theart 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 805 672-2888 to be provided with Unity, Restoration and Enrichment! 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. Katherine also specializes in private parties. Conveniently located at 1474 E. Main Street in Downtown Ventura, we accept Visa and MasterCard. Call Katherine at 805-6432500. When working with Metal Clay to save money on paste/slip file over 1st Proofand sand your masterpiece 2nd Proof a tray and add crumbs to your paste/slip jar. You’d be surprised FINAL PROOF (APPROVED) at how silver is lostisbynot not This proof is to check formuch accuracy and Cottontail this. intended to showdoing quality of reproduction. C r e a t i o n s A r t C e n t e r is a family owned and operated midtown business, located at 1744 E. Main St, Ventura. Located in the heart of midtown Ventura, K . B . R o b e r t s and Casa California are your onestop shop for card and gifts for any occasion. Come visit us now at K.B. Roberts for our 23rd Anniversary 23% off Jewelry Sale including such lines as our autumn at the Beach Collection! 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 reknowned artisan Gorky Gonzales from San Miguel de Allende! Also available is our New Shipment of Guatemalan Textiles including Placemat Sets, Table Runners, Rebozos & More!

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

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Client: Diva

Ad Executive: Kelly T

VENTURA

Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. I Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and

Here at J e w e l r y U n l i m i t e d, 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-a-kind 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 4738 - 1 Telephone Road, Ventura, CA. D i v a "the passion boutique" is your fun, elegant, lingerie and adult gift shopping experience. We provide a comfortable, boutique atmosphere with a uniquely appointed interior, artful displays and gallery style lighting. Diva's large selection of beautiful Lingerie from many different manufacturers in sizes small-3x , covers the gamut from sweet and sexy to unabashedly seductive ... and in a variety of fabrics and price ranges to suit a range of tastes and budgets.

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C h i C h i A n g e l s A p p a r e l is 2nd Ventura’s hotspot for Proof the latest celebrity favorites and unique lines FINAL PROOF not found(APPROVED) anywhere else in the This proof is to check for We accuracy andDagger, is notEd county. carry Silver intended to show quality reproduction. Hardy, of 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 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.

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1st Proof

“Be the change you wish to see in the world” ... 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. Embrace change. Blossom with Center Salon. We listen, we communicate, we perform. Our Goal is exceeding your expectations. Call today at 805-643-2711 for a consultation at no charge.

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Client: Kindermusik

Ad Executive: Warren

Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and s

CSFCU IS MEMBER OWNED ... Become a1stMember Today! Proof 2nd Proof

HERE’S WHY …..Children’s Date:Diane ________ NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOFAd TO FINAL PROOF (APPROVED) Client: Conejo Concert Series Executive:

Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have aASAP “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, andSignature: “Final Proof”. ____ If we (805) 648-2245 County Schools Federal Credit Union isofVentura intended to show quality reproduction. 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 a County’s greatest supporter of VC education! CSFCU is proud to have been the title sponsor for the 2008 Mock Trial, Academic Decathalon, Science Fair and Spelling Bee, just to name a few. This proof is to check for accuracy and is not

We are #1 In Supporting VC Schools

Now more than ever education in Ventura County needs our support. For more than 45 years, County Schools Federal Credit Union has led the way in giving to VC schools. sp

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2008 Thanksgiving Donation Drive & Raffle!

PROOF (APPROVED) Donate the following travelFINAL size items for homeless This proof is to check for accuracy and is not care packages through Nov. 20: intended to show quality of reproduction.

Toothbrush & toothpaste Lip Balm Shampoo & conditioner Deodorant Dental floss Antibacterial Wipes Sunscreen Soaps Bandages Comb / Brush For every five (5) travel size items donated, members will be entered into our Thanksgiving Raffle! You can win tickets to the Movie Theaters, Magic Mountain or Universal Studios! Donation Bags Available From Your Favorite Teller.

Find out how YOU can be a part of giving back to education by calling Member Services at (805) 644-4657. Ventura County’s ONLY Education Credit Union!

4591 Market St. 40

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“Your savings federally insured to at least $100,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government.”

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PERSONALITY

Mirror Image: Donna Granata self-portrait shot in an elevator as she made her way to teach a class for Elderhostel International on the history of the J. Paul Getty Museum.

Focus on the Women

Donna G ranata’s master ful do cumentation of Ventura County ar tists has b een widely cele brated. What you may not k now is that her archives ar e sexually egalitar ian—a rar it y when it comes to ar t histor y.

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BY MAXINE HURT PHOTOS BY BY DONNA GRANATA

“Women throughout art history haven’t gotten a fair shake,” Donna Granata says bluntly, not a trace of doubt in her voice. A documentarian of local artists and the executive director of Focus on the Masters, a nonprofit art appreciation program she founded in 1994, Granata is an artist herself—an internationally published, award-winning painter turned photographer. And coincidentally, her matter-of-fact statement is exactly what I’d been thinking during a recent visit to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. I was strolling through the museum’s European paintings collection and came upon a richly hued still life depicting an assembly of flowers encircling an artist’s palette. While the painting was arresting, at the time I found the description just as provocative: Charlotte Eustache Sophie de Faligny-Damas Marquise de Grollier; France, 1742-1828; Still Life. An Homage to van Spaendonck, circa 1780-1790.

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Teal Rowe, shattering the paradigm of couture with her wearable glass art. Opposite page (clockwise from right): Engraver Barbara Fumagalli in a real moment of melancholy reflection; expressionist Alberta Fins,“So much of our lives are hidden from public view,” Granata says of this portrait’s composition; painter Ruth Pastine, a New York native, posed as a butterfly between Twin Towers of apocalyptic color; the strength and sensitivity of sculptor Michele Chapin.

“There have always been great female artists—they just aren’t household names. Often their histories were fraught with horrible scenarios of them being taken advantage of." – Donna Granata

“Charlotte” painted this? Not Claude or Carlo or Cristofano? I reread the description then attempted to recall another female artist from this time period. I could list off male artists like a butler announcing guests at a ball, but when it came to females the list ended up woefully short. For Granata, an art historian, this is simply a reality of art history. “I think it’s really unfortunate that there is this disproportionate amount of women to men in museums and galleries,” she says. “It’s changing in modern times, but not as rapidly as I would like.” It’s not as if female artists did not exist back then; where there is life, there is art, whether it is the product of men or women. But sexism, strict adherence to traditional gender roles, rampant religious subjugation, and myriad other factors have historically hindered female involvement and adequate acknowledgement in the arts. As Granata puts it, “There have always been great female artists—they just aren’t household names. Often their histories were fraught with horrible scenarios of them being taken advantage of.” A graduate of Brooks Institute of Photography, Granata launches into a story about one her favorite female artists: Italian Baroque painter Artemisia Gentileschi. Artemisia’s story has multiple conflicting accounts, most sensational, others with questionable accuracy. Considered to be a superior representative of the school of Caravaggio at a very young age, Artemisia was raped by a fellow painter who refused to marry her. Her father sued the painter, and authorities tor-

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tured Artemisia in an attempt to force her into admitting she was the seductress. Her assailant accused Artemisia of everything from promiscuity to incest. Artemisia went on to be become the first female painter to join the Accademia di Arte del Disegno in Florence. “We know about these people,” Granata says, “because someone took the time to write about them. There are so many other artists that have just fallen into complete obscurity.” Equally disturbing, she explains, are cases where the artist’s history is rewritten, glamorized, or in the case of female artists, documented according to superficialities rather than artistic merit. And here lies a component of what has become Donna’s life passion. By developing an archive consisting of oral histories, videotaped interviews, correspondences, media coverage, examples of the artist’s work, and a photographic portrait of the artist, Focus on the Masters has become that “someone”—in this case, an organization using an egalitarian approach to archive Ventura County artists. “When I established Focus on the Masters, I really made a conscious effort to document as many women as men,” Granata explains. “When you take a good look at the archive you’ll see that. … It was just the right thing to do.” FOTM also chooses artists from a diverse range of artistic disciplines who have demonstrated mastery of their medium, garnered a significant level of peer recognition, and contributed to the cultural history of Ventura County.


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(above) Self-portraits utilizing a Polaroid camera and acrylic paints, Donna Granata’s 1992 reaction to feeling overwhelmed with the technical aspects of her studies at Brooks Institute of Photography.

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Unfortunately, there wasn’t always someone like Donna around. But as she would say, “History is now.” Which happens to be the name of her current Focus on the Masters Portrait Series at the Fred Kavli Theatre Art Gallery in the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. The exhibit features 116 of the 138 total portraits that Donna and her volunteers composed and shot, each of them invoking a thoughtful and authentic intimacy. Considering my recent visit to LACMA, I was drawn to the female portraits and interested to see how Donna visually documented these artists. In one image, Ventura sculptor Michele Chapin is seen sitting indoors among an assortment of jagged stones, with a lyrical swanshaped sculpture and sharp, rusty saw in the background. The definitive yet shapely line of Michele’s jaw is shown in profile. “She is a powerhouse, yet there is this very delicate and feminine side to her,” says Donna. Anne Graumlich, the Director of Exhibitions and Public Programs at The Museum of Ventura County, agrees: “In 2003 I curated an exhibit called Powerful Beauty: Images of Ventura County Women, and I selected that photo of Michele by Donna because I thought is was all about powerful beauty.” In another portrait, Donna presents a dignified, strategically posed woman “reclining” on a red velvet fainting couch. The subject is Ojai glass artist Teal Rowe—a woman unlikely to lounge or faint, someone who forges tirelessly in a craft still dominated by men. With her back ramrod straight, Teal dangles an alabaster elbow over the arm of the couch while wearing an intricate glass bodice. According to Donna,“This was a very deliberate pose; it’s my Olympia, a tribute to art history.” NOVEMBER 2008

In Granata’s spirited portrait of the late Beatrice Wood—the Ojai ceramist who when asked the secret of her long life famously said, “I owe it all to chocolate and young men.”—the 103-year-old artist is seated in an Indian sari surrounded by four shirtless men offering silver trays of chocolates. Donna later received a letter from Beatrice, just one month before she passed on. In in she wrote, “Now that the years have faded into a never-never land, all I have left to reassure me my life is worthwhile to hang on to is that beautiful photograph you took of me surrounded by four beautiful specimens of manhood…” As Donna tells me stories of women in art history, stories of contemporary artists in Ventura County, and the story of her life, I remember someone saying that behind every successful woman is another woman. Behind Donna, there are many. And the list grows fivefold every year. With the help of FOTM, there is no doubt that the artistic legacy of Ventura County women (and of course, men) will thrive. No rewritten histories or accidental exclusions. No tragic descents into obscurity for these ladies. v

The portraits from History is Now the Focus on the Masters Portrait Series will be displayed until January 12, 2009 at the Fred Kavli Theatre Art Gallery at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd. Call 805.449.2743 to schedule a self-guided tour. For group tours guided by Donna Granata call 805.653.2501.

F o c u s o n t h e M a s t e r s A r c h i ve & L i b ra r y 1147 East Main Street, Ventura 805.653.2501, FocusOnTheMasters.com


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nt

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

OXNARD Thank you for making Fresh & Fabulous a “Best of Ventura County” Lunch and Catering destination.

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805.486.4547

Learn more about our café and services at www.myfreshandfabulous.com

F r e s h & F a b u l o u s C a f e, voted a "Best of Ventura County" lunch and catering destination, is a warm and welcoming cafe with a Mediterranean flair. An oasis in which you will find some of the best sandwiches and panini in the area. Try our fresh salads and homemade quiche and you won't be disappointed. Choose from our assortment of cookies, cakes, muffins, dessert bars and more. Need catering for a party or business meeting? View our catering menu online at www.myfreshandfabulous.com. Join us Saturdays for a casual yet elegant Tea Service with reservations taken from 10am-1:30 pm. Private tea parties also available. Now through the Holidays: Order your specialty pies. Call 805.486.4547 for more information and reservations. Nestled in the heart of Historic Downtown Oxnard, at Heritage Square, L a D o l c e V i t a offers the best in fine Italian cuisine. As a family owned and operated restaurant, our staff is dedicated to providing you with a combination of exquisite food and impeccable service to create the perfect dining experience. Add to that, a Wine Bar, full Cocktail Lounge and Excellent Cigar Selection, La Dolce Vita truly is "The Sweet Life".

Ad Executive: Client: Lavender InnKelly Tracy

OJAI

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Thurs. & Sat.

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Rancho Ventavo Cellars Wine Tasting 4 wines & tapas • $19.50 Thursday, November 27 • 12 - 7pm

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Ad Executive: David Com

and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd and “Final weindicate receiveall nocorrections proof after the 1st 2nd PleaseProof”, check this proof overProof”. carefullyIfand clearly. Youor will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we r roof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: SEPT. 2008 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

I l G i a r d i n o is arguably one of Ojai’s friendliest restaurants. After opening in 2000 it has become a haven for regulars, locals and tourists alike. They are famous for their friendly service and generous prices. Open daily, Il Giardino is located at 401 E. Ojai Avenue and the welcoming staff looks forward to seeing you soon. 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 805-646-6635 for reservations or to schedule a private class for parties or team-building groups. Stay-and-cook 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.

1st Proof

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Figure out “Whodunit” for a chance to win an original work of art by some of Ventura County’s most esteemed artists!

Advance tickets $50 • After Oct. 31, $75 For tickets and more information: 805.648.1235 • 805.644.2750 www.BuenaventuraGallery.org 50% of proceeds benefits Ventura County College/University Art Students. Who Got Framed Artwork donated by Lisa Skyheart Marshall


Client: Amazing Grace

ISSUE: 2008 Ad Warren Barrett (805) Please check this proof over carefully and OCT. indicate all Executive: corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd648-2244 Proof”, and “ Proofs, AD WILLYou RUN IS. aIf“1st this Proof”, proof meets approval on the 1st proof, offno “FINAL (APPROVED)” Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. willAS have “2nd your Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If wecheck receive proofPROOF after the 1st or 2nd b 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: NOV. 2008

THE

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Client: iDrive Driving School Ad Executive: Barrett Please check this proof over carefully and indicateWarren all corrections clearly.

AD PROOF Insurance Agent 378 N VENTURA AVE Ad Executive: Warren Barrett ( OAK VIEW (805) 648-2244 You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proo jillolivares@allstate.com

e all corrections clearly. YouProofs, will have “1st Proof”, and “Final If we receive or 2ndPROOF ADaWILL RUN AS“2nd IS. Proof”, If this proof meets Proof”. your approval on the no 1st proof proof,after checkthe off1st “FINAL CA Lic: 0728682 (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: OCT. 2008

Insurance subject to availability and qualifications.Allstate Insurance Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, Illinois © 2007 Allstate Insurance Company.

PSYCHIC P A L M & TA R O T C A R D R E A D I N G

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Specializing in • Low Prices, Higher Standards • Driver Training • Satisfaction Guaranteed • Online Driver Ed love relationships. • Teens, Adults, Seniors are Welcome • Classroom Driver Ed Find out what S ERVING A LL OF V ENTURA COUNTY he/she is thinking PS YCHIC PALM & T AROT AD PROOF E A D I N GTHIS C O M B O PROOF about : PLEASERf oFAX TO you!Date: _______________________________ r $20! Reg. $75 2362 N. Oxnard Blvd. • Oxnard Over 20 Years 1st Proof 2nd Proof AdSignature: Executive: Diane Newman 1st Proof___________________________ 2nd Proof(805) 648-2244 Oxnard Blvd. near Vineyard Just South of the 101 Fwy (805) 648-2245 ASAP of Experience www.idriveschool.com

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Client: Neighbor Labor Ad Executive: Warren Barret all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. we receive no proof Dual Controlled Cars, If Marked & Unmarked Cars after the 1st or 2nd Insured, Bonded, Licensed CA Lic#E4304 Date: _______________________________ D FINAL PROOF (APPROVED) our approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. FINAL PROOF (APPROVED) Phone Readings Available ISSUE: NOV. 2008 Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections YouO will “1st Proof”, M E Nclearly. TION U have R SaP EC I A L “2nd S Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we recei This proof is to check for accuracy and is not ThisAS proof is this to check accuracy and is not Proofs, TOO! AD WILL RUN IS. If prooffor meets your approval on the 1st proof, checkSignature: off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the & FOR PARTIES ___________________________ S intended to show quality of reproduction. $ $ intended to show$ quality of reproduction. Call for Appointment

805-521-0555 805-223-5253

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NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO FINAL PROOF (APPROVED) “The Healing Energy Date: _______________________________ NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO This proof is to check for accuracy and is not of Love is Within” (805) 648-2245 ASAP intended to showASAP quality of reproduction. Signature: ___________________________ (805) 648-2245 Serving All of

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Date: _________________

Signature: _____________


THROUGH DEC 6 Through December 6 | Cal Lutheran University For the third consecutive year, the Kwan Fong Gallery will host the light sculptures of Sean Sobczak. Now appearing: a 12-foot-wide octopus. Sobczak started creating these sculptures after attending the Burning Man Art Festival. Inspired by the creativity he experienced, he returned to L.A. and began working on his first sculptural creation.The sculptures are surreal dream-like compositions of steel wire, imported fabrics, and various types of illumination that invoke a sense of childlike awe. Free. Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Kwan Fong Gallery (Soiland Humanities Center), 60 West Olsen Road #3800, Thousand Oaks. For more information call 805.493.3316.

THE HEARTS OF FIRE

CHELSEA HANDLER LIVE November 7 | Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza Stand-up comedienne, best selling author, and star of E! Entertainment’s Chelsea Lately, the always irreverent Chelsea Handler will be performing in Thousand Oaks. Handler has written two books:“My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One Night Stands,” and “Are you There,Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea,” which rose to number one on the New York Times bestseller list. As one of the nation’s fastest rising female stand-ups, Chelsea’s comedy intermixes fearless honesty, ironic riffs, and selfdeprecation. Content is for a mature audience. $40.50 and $55.50. 8 p.m. Fred Kavli Theatre. Tickets available from Ticketmaster (805.583.8700 or online at TicketMaster.com) or the Thousand Oaks Civic Ar ts Plaza Box Office, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd.

November 8 | California Lutheran University The Community Leaders Association’s 2008 “Violet & Gold Gala,” created to raise funds for CLU academic programs, will include cocktails and a silent auction followed by dinner, entertainment, and a live auction. Both auctions will feature vacation packages, jewelry, home entertainment items, dining experiences, golf packages, and professional sporting event tickets. Over the years, CLU has donated more than $1.6 million toward equipment and technology enhancements. Last year, the association distributed $65,000 in faculty grants, $9,000 in scholarships, and $4,000 to a scholarship endowment. $140. 5:30 p.m. Gilbert Sports and Fitness Center, Thousand Oaks. For tickets or mor e information, ca l l 805.493.3151 or lo g onto Ca l Luthera n. Edu/CL A/Auc tion.

BIG BAND NIGHT November 13 | Ronald Regan Library The Reagan Library is hosting their first Big Band Dinner and Dance in conjunction with Presidential Catering. Under the wings of Air Force One, guests can dance to Big Band favorites performed by the 11-piece “Eric Ekstrand” band and dine on a Gourmet Fall Vintners Dinner Buffet. Guests will also have the opportunity to tour Air Force One. Santa Barbara and Central Coast wines and wine pairings will be available to purchase at the event. Limited reserved seating. $54.95. 6-9 p.m. Guests will be seated at tables of 10. 40 Presidential Dr., Simi Valley. To m a ke reser vations, or for more information, call 805.577.4118 or visit ReaganFoundation.org.

DONALD K. FACCIANO KIDS AUCTION November 15 | Residence Inn by Marriott The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme are hosting their 19th Annual Donald K. Facciano Kids Auction to benefit more than 7,000 area youth at 24 locations throughout Oxnard and Port Hueneme. The evening will include cocktails and a silent auction (6 p.m.), followed by dinner and a live auction (7 p.m.). Items auctioned off include trips, VIP experiences, sports tickets and memorabilia, and more. There will be a special musical performance by Boys & Girls Club members. 2101 W. Vineyard Ave., Oxnard. RSVP by November 7. For tickets or more information, ca l l 8 0 5 . 8 1 5 . 4 9 5 9 o r v i si t PositivePlace4Kids. o rg.

WHO GOT FRAMED FUNDRAISER November 15 | Harbor Village Gallery For the third year,the Buenaventura Art Association will be hosting their Who Got Framed?! fundraising event. Who Got Framed?! is a Who-Done-Itthemed art show where guests try to figure out which artist created the art in the exhibition,with only a small portion of the art revealed.Clues and hints can be purchased,and information on each mystery artist will be in the show’s Mug Book.By guessing the correct artist,participants are eligible to win that piece of original artwork. Donated art by local artists will be posted a week before the event so all participants can do their detective work.Tickets $75.5-9 p.m.1591 Spinnaker Drive,Suite 117C,Ventura. For tickets or more information, call 805.648.1235 or visit BuenaVenturaGallery.org.

NOV 7

41ST ANNUAL GREAT AUCTION November 22 | Ventura Beach Marriott The Boys & Girls Club of Ventura is hosting a jazz-themed annual auction featuring a Count Basie cocktail reunion sponsored by Lynn's Jewelry Studio (4:30 p.m.) and an Artie Shaw Silent Auction sponsored by Santa Barbara Bank & Trust.The evening continues with a Preservation Hall dinner sponsored by Fashion Forms (6:30 p.m.) and the Miles Davis Live Auction sponsored by Kipp Brant Drummond & Assoc.Tickets are $125 per person, $1,250 for a reserved table of 10.Prices include gourmet dining.$1,500 for a preferred table of 10 also includes preferred seating.2055 East Harbor Blvd, Ventura. For additional information, call 805.641.5585 or visit BGClubVentura.org.

NOV 22-23 P H OTO B Y J I M B A R TS C H

November 6 | Meditation Mount, Ojai The Hearts Of Fire Project is launching the "Temperatures' Rising Tour," Transforming the Face of Homelessness from L.A. to Key West. The tour, which includes artwork created at homeless shelters across Southern California, will also showcase video clips from the upcoming documentary film "Hearts And Hands." Artists will be on-hand to talk about their work, and musicians from the shelters will perform original music. Bob Ballard, Founder and Executive Director of the project, will present his vision for homeless people. Original art prints will be available for purchase. $10 donation requested. 7-9:30 p.m. Meditation Mount, 10340 Reeves Road, Ojai. For more information cal l 8 0 5 . 2 1 8 .1 1 9 9 .

VIOLET & GOLD GALA

E ! E N T E R TA I N M E N T

SHORT LIST

LIGHT SCULPTURES BY SEAN SOBCZAK

12TH OJAI HOLIDAY HOME LOOK IN November 22 &23 | Ojai Valley Homes Sponsored by the Ojai Festival Women’s Committee,this timeless holiday tradition includes a tour of four private Ojai homes adorned with floral arrangements and trimmings.This year,the properties are models of ecological awareness exemplifying energy conservation techniques.In addition to touring the homes,guests will have an opportunity to shop at a holiday boutique that features the work of Ojai artisans and vendors. Holiday entertainment will also be provided at selected homes.Proceeds from the annual benefit support the Ojai Music Festival and its education program. $25 in advance,$30 at the door.10 a.m.to 4 p.m. No cameras,high heeled shoes,or children under 12 allowed. To purchase tickets or for more information, call 805.646.2094 or visit OjaiFestival.org.

ON THE HORIZON “HOLIDAYS IN PARADISE” HOLIDAY STREET FESTIVAL December 7 | Ventura Ventura’s 32nd Annual Holiday Street Festival will be held on Main Street in the city’s historic Downtown Cultural District. For one-of-a-kind Christmas or Chanukah shopping, the public can wander 12 blocks to see more than 300 artisan and fine arts booths. Food booths and musical entertainment will also be available. Kids will be able to take photos with Santa Claus at the Midtown Community Council booth. The event is free to the public, and complimentary shuttle service will be provided between Downtown and the Ventura County Government Center, Lot F. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For mor e inf or ma tio n, c all 8 05 . 6 54.7 7 49 o r vi s it C it yO fVen tur a. net .

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Pleaseoff check this PROOF proof over carefully and all sign corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we oof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check “FINAL (APPROVED)” box,indicate date and at the bottom. ISSUE: NOV. 2008 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 a

The Dream of Home Ownership is Alive & Well! If If you you need need to to sell sell or or are are interested interested in in buying, buying,

BLUE RIBBON SPECIAL! You'll find this highly upgraded three bedroom, two bath home on upper Palomares. Property features over 100k (per seller) in upgrades including new kitchen, windows, shutters, front door, gates, landscaping refinished wood floors, rear patio cover, detached oversized two car garage with new garage door. Located in one of Ventura's most desirable neighborhoods! Don't miss out! Offered at $749,000.

Call MIGNONNE HUBINA, and she can help you realize your dream today. Ad Executive: Diane Newman

805-444-0100 You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”.

AD PROOF (805) 648-2244

nd indicate all corrections clearly. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd JeffPROOF Paige(APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. ISSUE: NOV. 2008 of meets your approval on the 1st proof, checkClient: off “FINAL

oof

D)

not .

Ad Executive: Kelly

Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof” Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date an

Happy Thanksgiving

We’re the Best of1stHillside, Coastal & Proof 2nd Proof _______________________________ NOTICE: PLEASE THIS PROOF TO inDate: NOTICE: Estate homeFAX sales andPROOF purchases PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO Date: _______ FINAL (APPROVED) Signature: ___________________________ (805) 648-2245 ASAP This proof is to check for accuracy and is not West Ventura intended County... Find out why! (805) ASAP Wishing648-2245 you and your family a very safe Signature: ___ to show quality of reproduction. Premier Adult Living

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.

and happy holiday!!! NEW CUSTOM HOME with spacious floor plan. 5 bedroom, 3 baths. Seller Financing. Call me, it’s a great buy.

Reduced to $268,000

Enrique Montaño

Tina Comden

Judy Fairchild

Bob Ridgway

Fairchild& Ridgway

The

Group

805.339.3585

w w w . V e n t u r a C o a s t a l H o m e s . c o m

Jeff Paige Realtor® jbpRealtor@BigPlanet.com

805.427.2808 NOVEMBER 2008

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2nd Proof

FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)

NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO

Date: __


M U S T - S E E CO N D O

CO M P L E T E LY U P G R A D E D 2 Bedroom plus 1 bath condo, with pergo dark walnut wood floors in living, dining, & hallway. Granite counters in kitchen w/ all new appliances. Travertine flooring in kitchen & bathroom. Recessed lighting, ceiling fans, smooth ceilings, vaulted in living room. New carpet in both bedrooms. Beautiful view of Green belt.

OCEAN VIEW

MEDITERRANEAN VILLA This 3 story home with great ocean views has approximately 3,400 square feet, per tax rolls, and has 4 bedrooms with 3.5 baths. This villa features high and coffered ceilings, a full security system, and built in vacuum system. African mahogany flooring, extensive tile work, custom

cut glass windows and custom wall painting are a few of its unique features. The house has recessed areas for art pieces, arched bull nosed corner, and two fireplaces. The lower level includes a separate mother-in-law quarters. Come and fall in love with this expansive, quality property

L E G AC Y PA R K

ENTERTAINER’S DREAM Wonderfully maintained 4 bedroom home in the much sought after Legacy Park neighborhood. Perfect residence for those looking for space for entertaining. Stepping into the 52

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spacious living room you will be greeted with vaulted ceilings, a large dining room, and custom lighting. At the rear of the home is the full gourmet island kitchen with GE appliances and

NOVEMBER 2008

Close to laundry, pool, and parking. A Must See. Call Larry Krogh at General Pacific 805312-0512.

BEDROOMS:

2

BATHROOMS:

1

PRICE:

$238,000

on the desirable Ventura hillside. Call Fred Evans at 805339-0502.

BEDROOMS:

4

BATHROOMS:

3.5

PRICE:

$1,499,995

granite tile counters, tile floors, and family room with fireplace. Upstairs you will find the 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 full baths, and an indoor laundry room. There is also a loft area that is perfect as an office or library retreat. Outside there is a nice patio, an above ground spa, and beautiful gardens. This property is without question one of the best buys available with this size and location. Contact Bob Ridgway at RE/MAX Gold Coast, 805-339-3585 ext. 2 or visit www.614walcott.com.

BEDROOMS: BATHROOMS: PRICE:

4 2.5 $619,000

C U S TO M B U I LT H O M E

F R E N C H CO U N T RY Large and private 1 acre lot in the Terra Bella Estates, Camarillo, on the hills overlooking orchards and mountains providing wonderful views. This impeccable design features a lovely pool and spa plus a detached guest cottage with a bath. Some of the amenities include a stunning glass double door entry, a dramatic staircase with oak banister that leads to a library loft area, 3 custom fireplaces with mantels in the living room, family room and master bedroom, rich mahogany floors, a gourmet granite kitchen with

a breakfast bar as well as a dining area, a butler’s pantry, a formal dining room, a built-in entertainment center in the den, a downstairs bedroom with private bath and its own private entrance, a spacious master suite with views, Pella windows and Anderson doors. Call Veronica Licea at Coldwell Banker, 805-302-4500.

BEDROOMS:

6

BATHROOMS: PRICE:

4.5

$1,099,000


www.GeneralPacificProperties.com

A Real Estate Broker Who Believes Your Integrity Defines You!

Larry Krogh 805.312.0512 larry@generalpacific.net

RARE WATERFRONT PROPERTY

WALK TO THE BEACH, SHOPPING & RESTAURANTS

4BR + 3.5BA, 3,014 sq.ft. Exquisitely rebuilt & remodeled flowing home. Everything is top of the line - from the Bosch appliances, Hayler wine cooler, Kenmore washerdryer, Wood flooring. Jacuzzi tub, atrium style courtyard. Special Financing. To view virtual tour go to

Beach Duplex located less than a block to the beach! Both units have 3BR + 1.75BA. Downstairs is completely remodeled. The upstairs is well-maintained with a large living room, & a nice outdoor sundeck. Plenty of parking of site, including a garage, plus new landscaping in the backyard, including fruit trees. $949,000

www.2964SailorAve.com

$1,749,000

WELCOME TO PARADISE! Nestled behind large stately gates and rambling roses, this lovely immaculate home boasts double stair cases with ornamental iron baluster. Travertine stone flooring, 6’ marble & travertine mosaic medallion greet the entry. Victorian cream cabinets in kitchen make this truly a Chef’s & entertainer’s dream, complete with center Island/ with veggie sink & all counters made from granite. Beautiful built-ins complete with decadent crown molding throughout. Upgraded hardware and plumbing fixtures, custom wall treatments and paint throughout. Custom window coverings and drapes. Enormous Stone fireplace in living room. Plasma screens in nearly every room including some bathrooms. Game room with pool table & surround sound for huge plasm. 4 car garage. Guest casita. Stone waterfalls and swimming pool with Grotto, pebble and abalone bottom, w/ stone water slide, fire pit, lawn & exotic plants. This is Paradise! To view virtual tour go to

www.2124RamblingRose.com

LOCATION IS EVERYTHING! 2 BLOCKS FROM THE SAND

1139 VENTURA AVENUE

This corner lot home boasts 3 large bedrooms, 2 baths, a living room w/fireplace, large family room w/dining area which opens to a large kitchen w/ kitchenette & a low maintenance yard. Walk to beach, marina, shopping & restaurants. Enjoy the beach/marina lifestyle at an affordable price! $879,900

Commercial Property. Great income 5,000.00 monthly. Call Agent for details. $ 749,900

Offered at $1,625,000

THIS PROPERTY IS AMAZING & CLOSE TO NATURE

COMPLETELY UPGRADED CONDO

This property is amazing and close to nature. Huge 1/2 lot provides for an anazing pool home complete with spa and completely finshed landscape. This 3 BR, 2.5 BA home is nestled in a very quite culdesac. 3 car garage with RV parking. To view virtual tour, go to

2 bed+1bath condo, w/ pergo dark walnut wood floors in living, dining, & hallway. Granite counters in kitchen w/all new appliances. Travertine flooring in kitchen & bathroom. Recessed lighting, ceiling fans, smooth ceilings, vaulted in living room. New carpet in both bedrooms. Beautiful view of Green belt, close to laundry, pool, & parking. A Must see! $ 238,000

www.630CountryCrt.com

$699,000

To View These Properties & More Go To www.GeneralPacificProperties.com Call for a free Ventura county bank owned & short sale list. General Pacific now offers Property Management on your residential or commercial rental.


S EE F RED S ELL , H E S ELLS W ELL ! Exquisite Ventura Ocean Front Home. Hard to find wide sandy beach located at desirable Mussel Shoals. 3 BR, 2 BA with open floor plan. Upper level features open wood beam ceilings, kitchen with breakfast bar, FR with corner fireplace and 3 sets of slider doors to viewing deck, MBR and bath with spa tub and steam shower. Lower level has 2 BR and 1 BA with direct access to exterior. Large wood deck with add’l lower level patio. One of a kind property. OFFERED AT $3,250,000 – See V ir tual Tour on Websit e

Brand New Ventura Ocean View Home. Panoramic views of the ocean, islands, mountains and city lights. Owner spared no expense using top of the line materials. Loads of granite and custom stone work. Three levels with 4 BR, 3 BA and approx. 4,800 sq. ft. per builder. Fireplace in living room. Entire 3rd level is master suite with fireplace and huge walk-in closet. Large lot approx. 12,030 sq. ft. Lower level bonus room with potential for expansion. Large viewing decks on two levels. 3 car garage. Too many features to list. OFFERED AT $1,795,000 – V i si t w w w.5340foothill.com

REDUCED! FANTASTIC BUY! Ventura Ocean View Mediterranean Villa. Hillside 3 level 4 BR, 3.5 BA home with approx. 3,476 sq. ft. per tax records. Limestone look tile entry with stone fountain on entry landing. Open floor plan with huge family/game room. Gourmet kitchen with granite counters and butler’s pantry. Master BR with Jacuzzi tub and Roman shower with pass through fireplace. African mahogany floors in living & dining rooms. Possible lower level guest quarters with separate entrance. Security system, expansive viewing decks, and private backyard with arched patio. Must see! OFFERED AT $1,499,000 – Vi sit w w w.1166buenavista.com

CAMARILLO HEIGHTS ALTAMONT RIDGE GATED COMMUNITY. Highly upgraded Mediterranean home with views of the ocean, city, and mountains. Approx. 3,500 sq. ft. per seller with 4 BR, 5 BA plus office on over one acre. Upgrades include granite counters, travertine flooring, custom wood shutters, 2 fireplaces, and high ceilings with custom crown molding. Nicely landscaped yard with built-in BBQ, fruit trees and garden area. 3 car garage. OFFERED AT $1,299,000 – Vi si t w w w.altamontridge.com

Ar chit ect’s P e rs ona l H ome a n d M a st er p ie ce . Spectacular panoramic Santa Paula view home. Unobstructed 210 degree views of the ocean, islands, mountains and valley. Built in 1996 with approx. 4,800 sq. ft. per seller. 3 BR, 3.5 BA plus separate entrance guest quarters. Huge game room and family room. Energy efficient designed home with 5000 watts of electric energy production. This very unique contemporary home could not be replaced for the list price. FANTASTIC BUY AT $1,299,000 – See Vir tual Tour on Website

Downtown Ventura New Custom Ocean & Island View Home. 3BR, 2.5BA with approx. 2,100 sq. ft. per builder. 8 ft. sliding doors off kitchen to backyard. Master suite with large walk-in closet, spa tub, and hand crafted vanity in dressing area. Milgard Wood Clad Low E custom windows throughout. The many features include wrought iron stair railing, granite, travertine, stone, custom wood work, French doors, and skylights. Smart Box the living room and MBR, which runs all electrical in the house, is prewired for cable and surround sound. Close to downtown, restaurants, shopping and beach. OFFERED AT $1,150,000

Char ming Con te mporar y O ce an V ie w Home i n Ve n t u r a' s Prestigious Hobson Heights. Spectacular postcard ocean views from every room of this tastefully remodeled 2+2 coastal retreat. Channel Islands and Ventura Harbor are a stunning backdrop for a beautifully landscaped yard with reflection pool and waterfall. Relax on the sundeck off the master bedroom, family room and office area or let the Pacific breeze keep you cool on the covered view patio off the living room and dining areas. This is a rare opportunity to find a view home in historic Hobson Heights that has it all. OFFERED AT $1,124,900 – Vi s it ww w.1688marisol.com

REDUCED! FANTASTIC BUY! Ventura Ondulando Estates Contemporary View Home. Spectacular views of the mountains, city and ocean on large lot approx. 16,250 sq. ft. Remodeled in and out with 4 BR, 3 BA and approx. 3,012 sq. ft. per assessor. Family room with fireplace. Large master suite with sitting area, large walk-in shower, spa tub, and deck with sweeping views. Additional lower level viewing deck with built-in spa. Terraced back yard with fruit trees. 3 car garage, RV parking, and basketball court. OFFERED AT $999,000 – Vi s it w w w.989viacieli t o.c o m

MAJOR PRICE REDUCTION! Restor ed 1890 Somis School House. Beautiful Queen Anne style residence with detached guest house on over 1.5 acres. House has freshly painted exterior, beautiful stained glass windows, 12 foot ceilings on first floor and large rooms. Bell tower can be 3rd BR/den with great views. Full basement can be accessed from interior and exterior. Reroofed and copper plumbing. Fully fenced property with beautiful stone work and wrought iron gates. Dozens of fruit and nut trees. Old small barn sold as is. Potential historic Mills Act designation for substantial tax benefits. Unique property. REDUCED TO $999,000 – Vis it ww w.CenterSchoolRoad.com

Fabulous Ventura 1920s Spanish Ocean View Home. 3 BR, 3 BA, approx. 1,883 sq. ft. on a large lot, approx. 8,950 sq. ft. per assessor. Light and spacious living room with vintage tiled fireplace. Arched doorways, charming breakfast room, open kitchen, then step down to the open-beamed dining area and family room with 2nd fireplace. Spacious deck overlooks your private backyard. Lovely upstairs master with more ocean views, charming seating area and nicely tiled bath. Great location close to schools and downtown. OFFERED AT $949,000 – V is it w w w.MidtownHillsideHomes.com

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Most desirable lot in Peters Ridge Oxnard golf course community. Single story 4 BR, 2 BA with one bedroom currently used as office/music room. Formal living and dining room. Two fireplaces, one in both living room and family room. Large master bedroom suite with cathedral ceilings. Air conditioned. Professionally landscaped. Beautiful rear patio with inlayed brick. 3 car garage. Park like setting on permanent green belt. Steps to community pool, spa, and tennis court. OFFERED AT $945,000 – Vi si t w ww.2201pebblebeach.com

Classic 1930s Ventura Colonial Ranch House. Moved to current site in 1951. Originally on an East Ventura ranch built by famous 1920s baseball star, Fred Snodgrass. 5 BR, 3.5 BA, with approx. 3,282 sq. ft. per tax records. Wood flooring in most rooms. Gigantic living room with fireplace. Remodeled kitchen with loads of storage space. Spacious dining room with built-ins. Large dumb waiter, viewing balcony, enclosed sunny breakfast room, and loggia. Large lot approx. 11,309 sq. ft. with potting shed and 2 car garage. Separate entrance to possible guest quarters. Very special and unique property. Fantastic buy! ONLY $899,900 – V i si t w w w.220walnut.com

Ventura 1920's Spanish Style Hillside Home with Par tial Ocean View. Remodeled and expanded tri-level floor plan with 3 BR and 2.5 BA. Features include hardwood floors in original part of house, formal dining room with redwood ceilings, remodeled kitchen with Corian counters and newer cabinets, living room with fireplace, remodeled baths with tile and granite, and newer energy efficient windows. Upper level office/possible 4th BR with some ocean view. Breakfast room and indoor laundry room. Lower level bedroom with French sliding doors to outside patio. Private backyard with large deck and cabana area. OFFERED AT $797,000 – Visit www.1417buenavista.com

Spanish Hills Golf Villa Former Model. Gated community surrounded by million dollar homes. Largest floor plan approx. 1,928 sq. ft per assessor with 3 BR, 2.5 BA plus den. Family room with fireplace and TV nook, spacious living room, and formal dining room with French doors opening to surrounding deck. Master suite with spa tub, marble shower, dual sinks and walk-in closet. Additional features include tumble tile flooring, sound system throughout, central air, brushed nickel fixtures in baths, upstairs laundry, security system, and professionally landscaped yard. OFFERED AT $775,000 – Visit www.1108cor teriviera.com

Ojai Mountain V iew Cul-De-Sac Home. Beautiful 180 degree mountain views from this spacious 3 BR, 3 BA home on over a 17,000 sq. ft. lot. Features include 2 fireplaces, vaulted ceilings upstairs and down, fresh paint, smooth ceilings, and newer sliders, windows, and plantation shutters. Gorgeous new porcelain tile flooring in each of the bedrooms and hallway. Master bedroom with mountain views and private patio with a spa. 720+ sq .ft. garage has bathroom and plenty of storage space. Move-in ready! OFFERED AT $697,900 – See V ir tual Tour on Website

Ventura Brock Hills Beauty. Largest floor plan with swimming pool and spa. 4 BR, 2.5 BA with approx. 1,776 sq. ft. per assessor. Family room with fireplace. Large private lot with long driveway with room for up to 8 cars. Mountain and valley views. Won’t last long. FANTASTIC BUY ONLY $499,900 – See Vir tual Tour on Website

FRED EVANS SELLS... VENTURA COUNTY TO THE WORLD! The Fred Evans Team

SEE OUR VIRTUAL TOURS AT WWW.FREDEVANS.COM Email: fred@fredevans.com

(805) 339-3502 1500 Palma Dr., Ste. 160, Ventura, CA Se Habla Español (805) 339-3542, (805) 339-3528




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