Ventana December 2015

MAKING WAVES

JULIA CHAMBERS AND THE CULTURAL EVOLUTION OF OXNARD

WILD WINTER WONDERLAND Off-season surprises in Yellowstone

DECEMBER 2015

BETWEEN THE LINES The therapeutic science of adult coloring books FAITHFUL TO THE STORY Q & A with filmmakers Cyrus and Betsy Nowrasteh

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CONTENTS

ignite something o n ly t H e p e r f e c t c u t ca n u n l e a s H a diamond’s brilliance.

ventana VOL.9 NO.12

editor’s note

DECEMBER 2015

6 The Quiet Side of Culture

FE ATUR E S 11 Making Waves

profile

Julia Chambers and the Channel Islands Maritime Museum

19 A Wild Winter Wonderland

travel

Off-season surprises in Yellowstone National Park

30 Between the Lines

about town

The therapeutic science of adult coloring books

conversation 33 Faithful to the Story

Q & A with Cyrus and Betsy Nowrasteh

H e a r t s o n f i r e s t o r e s , au t H o r i z e d r e ta i l e r s , H e a r s o n f i r e . c o m

MICHAEL MONTANO

D E PAR TME NTS

community

8 City of Ventura’s 150th Anniversary Celebration

Museum of Ventura County

short list

45 A preview of local happenings

11 588 E. Main Street Ventura (805) 643-9132

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COVER: Executive Director Julia Chambers at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum.

Photo: Michael Montano.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS Health and Beauty 14

Real Estate

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Home and Garden 24

Ideal Homes

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CORRECTION: The cover image for our November issue was taken by local water photographer and videographer Joe O’Brien.

Celebrate.

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MICHAEL MONTANO

EDITOR’S NOTE

THE QUIET SIDE OF CULTURE

C

hannel Islands Harbor celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in 2015. I’m closing in on the half-century mark too, and though my childhood memory bank contains deposits of Ventura County seafood and swaying boat masts, I’ve only recently begun to appreciate this quiet gem.

It’s a work in progress, to be sure. But the harbor’s lack of polish gives it a certain underdog appeal. Parking is plentiful and there’s rarely a wait for a table with a view. Fishing boats ease in and out of its channels with no fanfare beyond that of raucous gulls looking for a handout, while the prevailing wind fills sails and moves willowy palm trees like a postcard in motion.

It’s all so idyllic, so reminiscent of California’s halcyon days that I waver between the desires to shout from a mountain peak and to keep our local secret hidden in plain sight.

On a recent afternoon at the harbor, my daughter and I wandered into the Channel Islands Maritime Museum to see its collection of centuries-old seascapes and finely detailed ship models. Entry was free (third Thursday of every month).

Minutes before, we’d been feeding a playful sea lion yellowtail scraps from one of the fishing boats after enjoying our own locally caught meal.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’ve experienced world-class waterfronts and I’m not about to put our local harbors on the same level as ones I’ve visited in cosmopolitan cities like Capetown and San Francisco. But by the time my wife and our son had caught up to us, I was on my soapbox preaching the gospel of simplicity—reminding them that this easy California scene had none of the crowds, overpricing, or parking dramas we’d have dealt with at waterfront areas up and down the coast.

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The sort of aggravations that prevent us from visiting those places.

The kids weren’t interested, of course. But then again, neither was I when I was their age.

In our Profile article on page 11, Julia Chambers, the Maritime Museum’s executive director, speaks of her desire to use art as a medium to “expand people’s minds.” She’s implemented a strong educational component for children, and looks to snap grownups out of their digital haze and into a world filled with rich sensory experiences.

I’ve noticed a lot of this sort of “turn off and tune in” thing lately. Several national parks opened their gates on Black Friday, offering free entry as a means of redirecting people away from the malls and online sales. The outdoor retailer REI closed all of its stores, essentially paying its employees to take Black Friday off while urging consumers to do something better than, well, consuming. (That move paid off with a lot of good press and a 26 percent spike in online traffic, but it’s nice to think the REI execs had pure intentions.)

Fact is, we’re entering a new era of consumerism; brickand-mortar sales are falling while online sales skyrocket. But I’m not terribly concerned with the changing face of holiday shopping nationwide. I’m more concerned about local residents not appreciating what we’ve got right here. Which is why I’m so impressed with Julia Chambers’ mission to get Ventura County residents interested in, as she puts it, “culture that is at the heart of why we are here in a first place.”

– Matt Katz mattk@ventanamonthly.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Matt Katz ART DIRECTOR T Christian Gapen ASSISTANT EDITOR Maxine Hurt CONTRIBUTORS T Christian Gapen Maxine Hurt Kathy Chin Leong Michael Montano Mark Storer Kateri Wozny GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Bret Hooper Tim Twaddle ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Warren Barrett Marni Howe Barbara Kroon Diane Newman Kelly Spargur Dave Stephens CIRCULATION Teresa Wann-Davis HUMAN RESOURCES Andrea Baker BUSINESS MANAGER Linda Lam ACCOUNTING Sharon Huie VP OF FINANCE Michael Nagami PUBLISHER David Comden

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COMMUNITY

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5 PHOTOS BY AJ GEBHART

CITY OF VENTURA’S 150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION MUSEUM OF VENTURA COUNTY On Sunday, November 8, the City of Ventura held its 150th anniversary celebration at the Museum of Ventura County. Guests heard stories from a panel of descendants of historic Ventura families (Chaffee, Harrison, SmithHobson, and Tumamait), along with performances by the Ventura Music Festival Brass Ensemble. Attendees also enjoyed great food, viewed historyinspired artwork by local students, and were treated to special limited edition 150th anniversary souvenirs. Event-goers were encouraged to bring copies of family photos from past decades to post on special photo boards that will

travel to various events and be on display at the Pacific View Mall.

Community members are invited to attend the many upcoming celebrations, special events, and activities in honor of the City’s 150th anniversary. The sesquicentennial finale—on the City’s anniversary, April 2, 2016—will include a free family fair and picnic in Downtown Ventura, followed by a benefit concert in Mission Park by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

See the calendar of events online at celebrateventura.org.

1. David Stephani, Souseh Gharbian, Gary Stephani, Michael Stephani, Susan Stephani, Marilyn Elmer, Mike Elmer, and Lisa Edwards. 2. Melissa and Michael Oslac. 3. Allen Edwards and Jen Seetoo. 4. Rebecca Romijn, Jerry O’Connell, Dallas Lawrence, and Sarah Lawrence. 5. Kimberly Lindley-Bourdon, Scott Lindquist, and Chris Bourdon. 6. Lisa Linn, Lori Infuhr, and Caroline Segall.

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PROFILE Executive Director Julia Chambers at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, a harborfront assemblage of centuries-old seascapes and finely detailed ship models.

MAKING WAVES How Julia Chambers plans to turn the Channel Islands Harbor into a cultural beacon for Ventura County.

J

BY KATERI WOZNY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL MONTANO ulia Chambers has always believed in going the distance to spark people’s minds. She is a motivator who speaks with passion and integrity, and who can draw anyone into her light.

On a typical day, the executive director of the Channel Islands Maritime Museum (CIMM) can be found at the Oxnard facility working on fundraising, social media, or new programs.

She’s been there since August 2013.

“I love coming up with new programs that people can enjoy and find interesting,” she said. “I want to get people away from their digital lives and into their real lives where they can taste, touch, and smell the air, and at the same time

become intellectually stimulated.”

Julia finds CIMM an inspiring challenge and loves telling the story of navigation.

“The lines of longitude and latitude encompass the globe,” Julia said. “If we didn’t have the commerce, trade, and ships that came into the port today, there wouldn’t be an Oxnard. That is our legacy here, and we celebrate that at the maritime museum.”

Philanthropy has always been part of Julia’s life. She grew up in Rochester, New York, where her father served on the boards of many nonprofits and instilled in her the importance }}

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ABOVE: A handsome, large-scale model of the USS Constitution, loaned to the Museum by Dr. Maurice Friedman.

RIGHT: Interactive exhibits include authentic, historical equipment such as this Engine Order Telegraph. In the background, a binnacle (built-in housing for a ship’s compass) and other steering/ onboard communication equipment.

OPPOSITE: Renowned shipbuilder Edward Marple spent more than 500 hours carving the figurehead on this model of the HMS Royal George, the largest warship in the world at the time of its launching in 1756.

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of community. She resides in Moorpark with her husband, Eddy, a pediatrician, and their children Lucas, 14, Kyle, 12, and Theo, 9.

“It’s a tradition in our family to give back to others,” she said.

With an extensive education and working background in museum and public art studies, Julia has always had an appreciation for the beauty of art. “Art is not only a good historical account, it is also reflects the beauty of the different ages,” she said. “Art captures the emotion, and I love how it raises people’s spirits. I got into the museum business because of art and how it can expand people’s minds.”

Prior to CIMM, Julia was the executive director of Gull Wings Children’s Museum (GWCM), an Oxnardbased nonprofit she effectively rebranded b ​y improving its appearance, programs, exhibits, and learning opportunities. She currently serves as GWCM’s board president and is hoping to move the museum into the former social security building in downtown Oxnard by next year.

“It would be a wonderful opportunity, and the City of Oxnard has been initially supportive of continuing the legacy of [GWCM] downtown,” Julia said. “Gull Wings has been around for 28 years, and I like serving on the board to help strengthen it.”

Some people have questioned whether there’s a conflict of interest in Julia serving on the GWCM board while working as the executive director at CIMM. But as she explained, “The funding, missions, and audiences don’t overlap … Oxnard needs a strong arts community, and I am open to helping both thrive.”

Never tiring of public service, Julia also serves as an official Oxnard Ambassador, sits on the board of the Oxnard Convention and Visitors Bureau, and is part of the steering committee for Ventura County Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. “I like making connections with interesting people who think outside the box,” she said.

The former site of Port Royal restaurant in Channel Islands Harbor has been home to the $2.5 million renovated CIMM building for four years. It was previously located in the Fisherman’s Wharf. “When you work for a nonprofit, you have a mission and a goal to engage the community by providing something worthwhile to them,” Julia said. “At the museum, it’s worthy because what we offer is culture that is at the heart of why we are here in a first place.”

According to Julia, the two-level museum has five centuries of maritime art from European collections, rare bone models o ​ f ships m ​ ade ​

by F ​ rench prisoners during the Napoleon wars, interactive exhibits, La Jenelle shipwreck artifacts, rotating exhibits featuring local and international artists, education programs for e​ lementary,​middle, and high school students, and stunning views of the harbor. There’s also a monthly speaker series, as well as a quarterly newsletter that features a special message from Julia and updates on news and events.

“Our education programs provide many children in the Ventura County area with their first visit to the ocean,” Julia said. “Besides showing them the museum history, paintings and ship models, we partnered with a marine science educational lab in the harbor and the students have the opportunity to feel the waves beneath their feet for the first time. It’s a thrill for them.”

But it’s CIMM’s exquisite ship models and five centuries of paint​​ ings that distinguish the museum. “There are over 26​0 maritime museums in the ​United States, a​ nd the ship models and ​paintings [here] a​ re ​ among t​ he f​ inest collections on display in the country,” Julia said.

In February 2016, the museum will celebrate its 25th anniversary.

Living history will be featured over President’s Day weekend as the tall ships Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain visit the port, and a Silver Anniversary gala will be held on February 27 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Ventura.

Each year, the museum raises some $286,000. A small portion of that comes from admissions, while the majority comes from grants and donations. One of the largest contributors is Martha V. and the Martha K. Smith Foundation for the “Every Fifth-Grader on the Water” program. According to Julia, the foundation has donated about $50,000 to the program over the past two years.

“We look forward to establishing an endowment for the maritime museum in 2016, in addition to surpassing our budget goals so we can do an even better job of attracting visitors and creating fantastic exhibits that everyone will love,” Julia said.

Until then, she works hard to leave a legacy of inspiration to others.

“I want more people to realize what is possible with something that I helped create,” she said. “Whether it’s wanting to explore the world or choosing a career because of something they saw, that’s what matters the most.” v For more information about the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, log on to channelislandsmaritimemuseum.org or call 805.984.6260.

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Exquisite Gowns For Your “Champagne Moment” Allure Christina Wu Essense of Australia Justin Alexander Lilian West Madison James Maggie Sottero Martina Liana Mikaella Paloma Blanca Pronovias

Dr Khoi Nguyen family practice has been serving the community for more than 19 years. Located at 905 S A St #1 in Oxnard, our friendly staff is here to serve you

6 days a week. Walk-ins are always welcome or you can schedule an appointment by calling: (805) 247-9199.

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Client: Massage Place

Ad Executive: Kelly Spargur Private fittings by appointment 805-620-0604

(805) 648-2244

Please_check_this_proof_over_carefully_and_indicate_all_corrections_clearly.__You_will_have_a_“1st_Proof”,_“2nd_Proof”,_and_“Final_Proof”.__If_we_receive_no_proof_after_the_1st_or_2nd_ 4221 E. Main Street, Suite B, Ventura Ca 93003 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: dEC 2015

bellamuccisbridalcouture.com

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30 min. $37 • 1 hour $47 • 75 min. $57 • 90 min. $67

$PrOOF PlEasE Fax ThIs TO OneNOTICE: Hour(805) Massage 44 648-2245 asaP

(Reg. $47)

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Happy Holidays!

3 Pak - $126

$115 per couple

no Contracts!

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3 one hour massages

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• Swedish • Deep Tissue • Acupressure • Sports • Reflexology • Couples Massage* *Downtown Ventura & Oxnard Locations Only • Chair • Pregnancy

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Ventura - eaSt 4255 E. Main St.

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805•477•7501

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Oxnard

2100 Outlet Center Drive In The Palms Center

(101 exit Rose south to Gonzales)

805•485•0568 OPen 7 daYS, 10am – 9pm

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805•966•5282

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Serving Ventura County for More Than 13 Years

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Opportunities for Licensed Therapists available. Call Bonnie at (714) 742-3220. all therapists are state certified, licensed, and insured.

Gift Certificates purchased at this special price are valid any time after December 25, 2015. Good only for 1 hour massages and may not be combined with any package or coupon. Valid only at locations listed above.

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Date:_______________________________

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New Year’s Eve Celebration

“North to Alaska” 8:00 pm - 2:00 am

Steak & Seafood Menu • Greek & Belly Dance Show FREE Photo Booth • DJ with Two Dance Floors (Swing & Popular) Champagne Toast at Midnight • Spectacular Balloon Drop $70 per person plus tax and gratuity. Limited guaranteed seating

Parade of Lights – December 18 & 19 Reservations only for Dinner and Parade Seating GIFT CAR D Special Menu – Minimum $30 person Gift Cards purc Fireworks at 8:00pm hased 9pm-12pm Reverse Happy Hour and Dance Music prior to Christmas totaling $100 re ceiv a $10 bonus ca e rd.

Open Christmas Eve - 11am-8pm Belly Dance Show at 6:30pm

Open Christmas Day - 11am-5pm Dinner Menu Served All Day

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Client: Happy Westerlay Orchids Hour Mon - Fri 3 - 7pm

Breakfast - Sat. & Sun. 8:30 - 11am

Ad Executive: Barbara Kroon

(805) 648-2244

Lunch Daily 11am - 4pm 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_ Dinner Daily from 4pm Ventura Harbor Village • 805-650-5350 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.

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1583 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura

TheGreekVentura.com

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TRAVEL

A WILD WINTER

WONDERLAND Off-season surprises in Yellowstone National Park.

BY KATHY CHIN LEONG

TOP: The rustic majesty of Yellowstone, as illustrated by an old barn with a jaw-dropping backdrop of the Grand Tetons.

A HERD OF BISON SHUFFLES THEIR HOOVES

around the back of Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel like pubescent boys at their first dance. With clumps of snow clutching their beards, the beasts silently graze. Little do they know they were once hunted to the brink of extinction. Today, at 4,900 strong in Yellowstone National Park, these celebrities have returned to healthy numbers. Elk and wolves have also dropped down to the valley floor to join the party.

The home of Yogi Bear morphs into a winsome Narnia in the wintertime, with nature’s undulating white blankets and nimble-footed creatures dotting the snowscape. For folks who dread crowds but have longed to visit Yellowstone, December to March is the best time to savor snow and solitude. On average, winter guests comprise only three to six percent of annual visitors, according to Rick Hoeninghausen, the director of sales and marketing at Yellowstone National Park Lodges.

Why so few? Getting there is more challenging compared to the summer high season. Of the four Yellowstone entrances, just the North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana opens up to personal autos. During this season, the National Park Service also dictates exactly how many and what

LEFT: The 3,468-square-mile national park is the only place in the U.S. where bison have lived continuously since prehistoric times.

}}

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types of vehicles it admits.

But these hurdles are surmountable. Visitors flying into Bozeman, Montana can reserve an airport shuttle to Yellowstone’s Mammoth Hot Springs. Yellowstone National Park Lodges provide packages that bundle in-park transportation with accommodations and tours. Many guests find that this approach offers the best winterseason value and the simplest way to experience the park, says Hoeninghausen.

Temperatures sometimes plummet below zero, but don’t let that stop you. “Those who brave the cold weather are rewarded with a spectacular wilderness experience. The crosscountry skiing and wildlife watching are superb,” describes Jeff Brown, the executive director of the Yellowstone Association, the park’s nonprofit educational arm.

Yellowstone could be the heavyweight title winner among its peers. It sits on top of one of the world’s largest volcanoes and, established in 1872, reigns as the world’s first national park.

Covering 2.2 million acres, it boasts the world’s highest concentration of geysers, with 10,000 thermal features. The park overlaps three states: Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho.

While lodging prices stay the same in the high and low seasons, they are a relative bargain compared to big-city hotels. Of the nine official properties, two remain open in winter. Nightly rates at Old Faithful Snow Lodge start at $109; at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel they start at $90.

Both offer basic-to-deluxe rooms, restaurants, and complimentary morning beverages. There’s free ice-skating, too.

Folks craving a Zen-like retreat can sense the environment touching their very souls.

Hisses from natural steam vents combined with wolf howls are a Yellowstone-only symphony.

Quiet gems include needle ice, crystalline structures that erupt from the ground in thin, palmsized columns.

“Winter in Yellowstone is my favorite time of year,” says Shauna Baron, a resident instructor with Yellowstone Association Institute (YAI). “No matter what your age, you can be a kid again. I catch 75-year-olds sticking out their tongues to catch snowflakes.”

Yellowstone is an animal mecca, having the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states. Critter aficionados can check off favorites while hiking, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling. They can join a group tour or hire a naturalist to take them on a private snowcoach in the Lamar Valley, where the majority of creatures converge. A January trip gifted travelers with sightings of wolves picking off meat from an elk carcass, mountaintop bighorn sheep scanning the horizon, and a coveted bobcat scrambling up 20

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a tree.

“I’ve been an animal lover my whole life, and I have watched documentaries of Yellowstone, but seeing it with my own eyes was remarkable,” recalls David Lang, an outdoor enthusiast from Rowland Heights, California who was on a private snowcoach tour. “I can see why Yellowstone is called the Serengeti of the United States.”

Formal trips with YAI feature staff naturalists who lead groups on excursions such as Winter Wolf Discovery, a four-night adventure to witness the carnivores in action. These Lodging & Learning programs provide comfortable hotel sleeps while sightseers brave the elements in the day.

The YAI Field Seminars, on the other hand, are a different breed. Guest lecturers convene one- to ten-day courses on everything from tectonics to Native American history. Participants sleep in tiny heated cabins with restroom facilities outside. Students also cook their own meals.

Independent wilderness zealots can snowcamp and sojourn through the backcountry.

For others, Yellowstone delivers on softer adventures, thoroughly majestic. A trek to the Fountain Paint Pots brings tourists face to face with sputtering mudpots. The terrace trail at Mammoth Hot Springs reveals stair-stepped mineral pools and bizarre limestone formations.

Steps from Old Faithful Snow Lodge is the famous namesake geyser. A boardwalk encompasses this natural force that leaves visitors spellbound. “One morning I found myself by Old Faithful, and only four or five people were there,” describes Lang. “In all the brochures I have ever seen, hundreds of people are crowding around the geyser. In that quiet moment I felt I had the whole geyser to myself. It was magical and very special.”

Emily Stone, a Wisconsin naturalist and education director, tells of her own Yellowstone moment, when she went cross-country skiing with a group of women. They encountered the Lone Star geyser just as it erupted. “It was going up and down at least 15 minutes,” she explains.

“It had been a cloudy day, and all of a sudden the sun came out. And there was a rainbow in the steam of the geyser. We had a great time.”

After dark, festivities often continue at the lodges with scintillating slide shows and nature talks. Local live music, when scheduled, is yet another treat. In the gathering rooms, visitors swap stories. “There’s a real community feeling here, and people will just start talking to the person sitting on the couch next to them,” observes Hoeninghausen. “There’s no denying that the experience in winter is intimate. It’s a different world.” v

ABOVE: Old Faithful Inn, a national historic landmark and the world’s largest log structure.

LEFT Heated “snowcoaches” provide transportation in the park when it’s at its most rugged.

FAR LEFT: Painter Thomas Moran’s vision of the Western landscape helped inspire Congress to establish Yellowstone as the first national park in the U.S. The park has since inspired countless masterworks of painting, photography, and poetic verse. }}

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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

The only road open to personal cars is through the Yellowstone North Entrance, located in Gardiner, Montana.

Shuttles are available from the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport to Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel for $56 adults/$28 children (ages 3-11) each way through Yellowstone National Park Lodges.

Snowcoach transportation is available within the park with reservations from Xanterra Parks & Resorts.

PLAN YOUR TRIP nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/ WHERE TO STAY yellowstonenationalparklodges.com CLASSES, NATURE PROGRAMS, AND MORE yellowstoneassociation.org.

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ABOVE: Half of the world’s geothermal features and two-thirds of its geysers are concentrated in Yellowstone, adding to the park’s otherworldly feel.

FAR LEFT: Winter offers a chance to explore popular sites like the West Thumb Geyser Basin, seen here, without the crowds.

y_and_indicate_all_corrections_clearly.__You_will_have_a_“1st_Proof”,_“2nd_Proof”,_and_“Final_Proof”.__If_we_receive_no_proof_after_the_1st_or_2nd_ proof_meets_your_approval_on_the_1st_proof,_check_off_“FInal_ProoF_(aPProveD)”_box,_date_and_sign_at_the_bottom. ISSuE: dEC. 2015 S P E C I A L A DV E RTI S I N G S E C TI ON

Turn Your Kitchen or Bath Project Into Something Spectacular • Wholesale and Retail Plumbing Supplies

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SPENCERS VENTURA MATTRESS

Adjustable beds are a specially designed mattress on top of a motorized base. This base allows the use to elevate the head and foot sections of the bed. The zero gravity position allows for no pressure on the lower lumbar spinal region.1806 Goodyear Ave., Ventura (805) 658-2866 spencersventuramattress.com.

• Sales staff with years of experience in the field of wholesale plumbing and showroom design • Residential, commercial and water works • Showroom, parts counter, special orders

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Keenan Client: DMD Construction

Ad Proof

Supply Showroom

Ad Executive: Barbara Kroon

(805) 648-2244

PACIFIC STONEWORKS 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_ Wholesale Hours

Our unique process of digital measuring and photographic layout is 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: DEC 2015 1853 Palma Dr., Ventura 6:30am – 5pm M-F available for your project. Showroom & factory at 31 Peking St. Ventura.

Showroom Hours

s_not_ on.

(805) 656-2000

8am – 5pm M-F

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(805) 648-4098 www.pacificstoneworks.net.

Visualize Your project comes with Date:_______________________________ preliminary CAD drawings Signature:___________________________ Trust Fixed Price, itemized contracts Dust-Free Remodeling

We respect your home as much as you: full dust barriers and floor protection on every job

Communication All details reviewed before installation

Expedite

DMD Construction General Contractors Design-Build Residential Remodeling 24

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Tightly scheduled projects are completed on time, every time

CA Contractors Lic. # 903106

(805) 625-4161 facebook.com/dmdconst

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& Door

S P E C I A L A DV E RTI S I N G S E C TI ON

TILECO

Introducing Tileco’s newest line of glass tile – Islandia. Bring soft colors and exciting new shapes to your bathroom or kitchen while keeping clean, classic lines. Made from 8mm high quality, heavy duty construction-grade glass. 4222 Market Street Suite B, Ventura. (805) 658-0677 www.tilecodist.com.

Ad Proof ALL PATIO FURNITURE

Ad Executive: Warren Barrett

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All Patio Furniture can repair your current outdoor casual furniture. y_and_indicate_all_corrections_clearly.__You_will_have_a_“1st_Proof”,_“2nd_Proof”,_and_“Final_Proof”.__If_we_receive_no_proof_after_the_1st_or_2nd_ Customer service is their priority and they will do everything they can to _proof_meets_your_approval_on_the_1st_proof,_check_off_“FInal_ProoF_(aPProveD)”_box,_date_and_sign_at_the_bottom.

ISSuE: DEC. 2015 make your project run smoothly. (866) 217-4252.

West Coast sash & Door Your complete window and door store

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WE InStALL! AAA Rating Contractors License #757165

Family Owned for 25 Years

Ven tura

Lifetime Warranty on Glass Breakage Lifetime Transferable Warranty

89 , CA Est. 19

Email questions to: Arlien@wcsd1.com

Monday – Saturday • Huge Showroom

1922 Palma Dr., Ventura • 805.644.4902 • www.wcsd1.com DECMBER 2015 |

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S P E C I A L A DV E RTI S I N G S E C TI ON

Home&Garden Showcase

FOR YOUR HOME FURNITURE

If you’re looking for innovation, value and a smaller carbon footprint, take part in helping the planet. Appreciated for centuries for its versatility and beauty, bamboo is a star material for designers. 443 E Main Street, Ventura. (805) 641-1919 www.fyhfurn.com.

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ARJAY’S WINDOW FASHIONS

Providing residential and commercial window coverings Southern Ad inExecutive: Warren Ba California since 1975.

We specialize in designing high quality treatment Please_check_this_proof_over_carefully_and_indicate_all_corrections_clearly.__You_will_have_a_“1st_Proof”,_“2nd_Proof”,_and_“Final_Proof”.__If_we that bring beauty, privacy and improved comfort and energy efficiency 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 to windows by installing blinds, shutters, and custom draperies. 5917 Olivas Park Drive, Ventura (805) 642-2300 www.arjayswf.com.

Client: Pacific Stoneworks

CELEBRATING

21 YEARS OF BUSINESS

Enjoy this introduction and informative video -...

Learn more about our unique digital processs!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YCOCudXCSU

(805) 648-4098 www.PacificStoneworks.net • 31 Peking Street, Ventura, CA http://kaywa.me/Ax0PL

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Download the Kaywa QR Code Reader (App Store &Android Market) and scan your code!

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Patio furniture refinishing since 1985

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Powdercoat Painting sandblasting sling Replacement Vinyl strapping & Lacing

hundreds of Colors!

at 1/3 of the Cost of Buying New! We are Factory recommended

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Ad Executive: Warren Barrett WEST COAST SASH AND DOOR Client: Sofa U Love

(805) 648-2244

Save 50% on Pickup & delivery Ad Executive: David Com

With_this_ad._Minimum_order_required.

Please_check_this_proof_over_carefully_and_indicate_all_corrections_clearly.__You_will_have_a_“1st_Proof”,_“2nd_Proof”,_and_“Final_Proof”.__If_we fully_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_ offer_expires_1/31/16.

Simonton DaylightMax™ windows offer less frame and more glass than 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_ his_proof_meets_your_approval_on_the_1st_proof,_check_off_“FInal_ProoF_(aPProveD)”_box,_date_and_sign_at_the_bottom.

ISSuE: nov 2015 most replacement windows. 1922 Palma Drive, Ventura (805) 644-4902 Call Today for Your free Estimate 866.217.4252 www.wcsd1.com. or Email Us at: sales@allpatiofurniture.com PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Quality Never Sleeps

Quality Never Sleeps

Family prospers with its line of mattresses at Santa Barbara facility

I

Family prospers with its line of mattresses at Ventura facility n an age of big-name brands, corporate consolidation and outsourced manufacturing, it’s hard to imagine that a small, family-owned company could survive in the business of making and selling mattresses.

Yet somehow, quietly holding its own against the Sleep Numbers and Tempur-Pedics of the world, is Santa Barbara Mattress.

Founded by local entrepreneur Spencer Simcik, the mattress factory and showroom operates out of an industrial park off Telephone Road in Ventura. From here, Simcik and about a half-dozen of his family members help with the manufacturing and sale of the firm’s own brand of mattresses, Churchill & Smith, and a wholesale pillow-making business.

Simcik, an endlessly energetic man in his 50s, sells other brands of mattresses as well. However, his passion lies with the mattresses he and his family produce behind the showroom floor. Simcik prides himself on manufacturing mattresses with natural materials. Instead of petroleum-based products such as polyester and nylon, Simcik said he goes for wools and unbleached cotton. In place of polyurethane foam he favors natural latex and coconut fiber, and he avoids chemicals such as chlorine and formaldehyde.

“I’m a disrupter in the industry, I like to disrupt every part of our industry and expose it because there’s a lot misrepresentation,” Simcik said.

“It’s become sales driven, all about sales, sales, sales, but it should really be about quality sleep. My whole thing is, if we educate the consumer, the money’s going to come.”

On a recent weekday, Simcik bustled between the showroom of neatly-made, plush-looking beds, and the small behind-the-scenes factory piled high with mattresses and boxes of materials. On one side of the factory, two seamstresses sewed together the fabric components of the mattresses, while Simcik’s son, Parker Simcik, and his niece, Courtney Wickman, consulted with

him on operational logistics.

The company is truly a family affair, with Simcik’s wife, mother, three sisters and two nieces all playing a role. His sisters, Pam Simcik, Debbie Wickman and Vickie Whalen, operate their own affiliated mattress stores in the Conejo Valley, Camarillo and Simi Valley, respectively. His wife, Karen Simcik operates Santa Barbara Mattress at 909 De La Vina in downtown Santa Batrbara. Almost everyone, including Spencer Simcik, pitches in to help with what’s needed, be it sewing, selling or coming up with new mattress design ideas.

“Everybody here has to know how to sew,” said Simcik. “This is not an assembly line. Everyone around here needs to do everything.”

Simcik got his start in the mattress business in 1986, when he opened his first store in Oxnard at age 21.

At that time, most mattresses were sold at department and furniture stores, but Simcik decided he could corner a niche area of the market by specializing only in mattresses. The business grew, and over the years he helped independent operators open 22 other mattress stores around the country.

Although he’d long had an interest in making mattresses himself and began experimenting with it in the late 1980s, it was only in 2010 that Simcik began manufacturing in earnest, he said. He was inspired to create natural, superior-quality mattresses after a trip to Sweden as a dealer for mattress company Hästens, where he learned about the materials and science behind promoting healthy sleep, he explained.

Today, Simcik said he makes between 800 and 1,000 mattresses a year, which are sold in his sales room, at his family’s affiliated mattress stores and a few other stores.

For his wholesale pillow business he has sold over 14,000 pillows in the last two years, he said. In all, his business generates about $3 million in annual sales, he said.

Working with family has been a source of strength and stability for the

In_ an_ age_ of_ big-name_ brands,_ sales,_but_ This_proof_is_to_check_for_accuracy_and_is_not_ corporate_ consolidation_ and_ outsourced_ it_ should_ intended_to_show_quality_of_reproduction. manufacturing,_ it’s_ hard_ to_ imagine_ that_ really_ be_ a_ small,_ family-owned_ company_ could_ a b o u t_ survive_ in_ the_ business_ of_ making_ and_ q u a l i t y_ selling_mattresses. sleep._My_ Yet_ somehow,_ quietly_ holding_ its_ own_ w h o l e_ against_ the_ Sleep_numbers_ and_ Tempur- thing_ is,_ business, Simcik maintained. Because bring tasks to realization, whether it’s Pedics_ of_ the_ world,_ is_ Spencers_ventura_ if_we_educate_the_consumer,_the_money’s_ everyone knows each other so well computer work, sales, manufacturing they are comfortable bringing up or deliveries.

Mattress_Factory. going_to_come.” problems and also new ideas, he said.

“It’s crazy. It’s absolutely insane, “For me it’s a safety zone in regards in the best waybetween_ possible,” he said, Founded_ by_ local_ entrepreneur_ Spencer_ Today,_ Simcik_ said_ he_ makes_ to being ourselves around here,” he noting that he bickers with his cousin, said. “It’s a creative think tank, and it even though she’s technically his Simcik,_ the_ mattress_ factory_ and_ 800_ and_ 1,000_ mattresses_ a_ year,_ which_ always has to maintain that in order boss, and has no hope of keeping his stay ahead of the industry.” life private. showroom_ operates_ out_ of_ an_ industrial_ are_ sold_ in_toParker his_ sales_ room,_personal at_ his_ family’s_ Simcik, his son, said he “At the end of the day we all love loves working in the family business each other.” To learn more, please park_ off_ Telephone_road_ in_ventura._ affiliated_mattress_stores_and_a_few_other_ and has turned down other jobs call or come visit Karen or Tracy at stay there. He calls himself the Santa Barbara Mattress today.

From_here,_Simcik_and_about_a_half-dozen_ stores._ For_to“Executive his_ wholesale_ Catalyst Officer,” because pillow_ business_ he steps in wherever he’s needed to of_ his_ family_ members_ help_ with_ the_ he_ has_ sold_ over_ 14,000_ pillows_ in_ the_ manufacturing_and_sale_of_the_firm’s_own_ last_two_years,_he_said._In_all,_his_business_ brand_ of_ mattresses,_ Churchill_ &_ Smith,_ generates_ about_ $3_ million_ in_ annual_ and_a_wholesale_pillow-making_business. sales,_he_said.

Family Owned & Operated Simcik,_ an_ endlessly_ energetic_ man_ in_ Working_ with_ family_ has_ been_ a_ source_ his_ 50s,_ sells_ other_ brands_ of_ mattresses_ of_strength_and_stability_for_the_business,_ 909 De La Vina as_ well._ However,_ his_ passion_ lies_ Simcik_ maintained._ Because_ everyone_ Santa Barbara • 805-962-9776 with_ the_ mattresses_ he_ and_ his_ family_ knows_ each_ other_ so_ well_ they_ Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM - 6 PM • Sun 11 AM-5 PM are_ FREE produce_ behind_ the_ showroom_ floor._ comfortable_ bringing_ up_PARKING problems_ and_ (Downtown between Carrillo & Canon Perdido on right side of street) Simcik_ prides_ himself_ on_ manufacturing_ also_ new_ ideas,_ he_ said._ “For_ me_ it’s_ a_ mattresses_with_natural_materials._Instead_ safety_zone_in_regards_to_being_ourselves_ of_ petroleum-based_ products_ such_ as_ around_here,”_he_said._“It’s_a_creative_think_ polyester_ and_ nylon,_ Simcik_ said_ he_ goes_ tank,_and_it_always_has_to_maintain_that_in_ for_ wools_ and_ unbleached_ cotton._ In_ order_to_stay_ahead_of_the_industry.” place_ of_ polyurethane_ foam_ he_ favors_ natural_ latex_ and_ coconut_ fiber,_ and_ he_ avoids_ chemicals_ such_ as_ chlorine_ and_ formaldehyde.

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BETWEEN THE LINES

From black and white to bold and bright: The therapeutic science of adult coloring books.

BY MAXINE HURT | PHOTO BY CLAUDETTE WEST

S

teps from Pierpont Beach, in a small garage with grains of sand scattered across the concrete floor, there is a tidy white desk with a basket of drawing pads, a large mug filled with colorful pens and pencils, and the words “Color Mi Vida” painted on the wall in a whimsical script.

Next to the words, there is a drawing of two women in a heart that lies within a circle.

The women in the illustration, with hair streaming over their shoulders, touch heads while each holds a heart. One heart reads, “Art inspires”; the other, “Art heals.” The air in the room, comfortably warm, smells of damp sea salt. A plush sofa rests against a wall adorned with detailed drawings: a woman in a grass skirt playing the ukulele with the sun setting behind her, a monarch butterfly nestled within the lavender-colored petals of a flower, a woman hugging her surfboard looking toward the horizon. A turquoise beach cruiser stands in the corner by the garage doors.

This is the creative workspace of sisters Renata “Rain” Felix, age 35, and Erica “Erie” Ramirez, age 37, stay-at-home moms and artists who created many of the pages of an elaborately illustrated adult coloring book called “Journey.” All 50 pages feature freehand, original designs (no computer editing or retouching). Created in 30 days, “Journey” came to life while the sisters were nursing their babies.

“My first drawing was done the day my daughter was due,” says Erie. “It was probably my most intricate one. I was going through an emotional time, but it kept me calm.” Erie’s drawing depicts a lush, tropical landscape with a sun setting in the distance. Curving, swirling, rolling foliage, clouds, and waves flow into one another. You could get lost among the black and white lines.

The imaginative pages of “Journey” take the colorist into the natural world, where women find peace beachside and lifelike flora and fauna in the form of succulents and ferns, dolphins and sea turtles invite you into an intricately realized space in black and white.

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The pages encourage viewers to pick up where the sisters left off and inject color into a landscape that so obviously requires it. As Erie says, “We start it. You finish it. The art becomes ours.”

Surprisingly, the sisters are not formally trained artists. “We are from a small agricultural town famous for its sweet corn. There weren’t a lot of opportunities,” says Erie, the auburn-haired sister whose baby, Ua’lani, Hawaiian for “heavenly rain,” screeches then smiles at me. “Our first real job was topping onion seed.” Rain and Erie credit their high school art teacher in Olathe, Colorado with introducing them to art and teaching them how to venture into different mediums.

“Thankfully, in high school we had really good art teachers,” says Rain whose dark hair is pulled back in an artistically messy bun.

“Especially one, her name was Patty Byers. She was just so encouraging.” The sisters haven’t taken an art class since.

Rain and Erie are also thankful that their families organically modeled a creative environment and fostered the girls’ artistic inclinations. “If you look at my grandmother’s yard, she paints her art on ceramics. My mom’s a really good cook, too. It’s not like you have to have a certain degree. I think we all have it in us naturally and you can just pursue it,” says Erie.

Coloring books for adults are trending big-time at the moment. The wildly popular “Secret Garden: An Inky Treasure Hunt and Coloring Book,” created by Johanna Basford, a Scottish artist and commercial illustrator, has sold over 2 million copies since its release in 2013. This is only one of many adult coloring books, some of which are selling by the mil-

lions. Days after my interview with Rain and Erie, I wandered into Barnes & Nobles and discovered a large table piled high with adult coloring books featuring detailed illustrations and the veiled promise of low-investment therapeutic release. Can the colorist really anticipate a return to child-like simplicity?

A newfound lightness of being? A moment out of time? Respite from quotidian suffering? Whatever they are finding, it’s real and apparently incredibly attractive to millions of people.

“For me, the coolest part of this project has been seeing how it’s been helping people,” says Rain, “It’s been very healing for so many people.” The sisters have been receiving feedback from friends, family, and strangers articulating how coloring has eased both physical and psychological ailments. “We sold some books at the Aloha Beach Festival and received this beautiful email,” says Rain. “The woman said, ‘Thank you so much for creating this book. I showed it to my therapist and she said it’s the best therapy.’ Rain relates a story about how “Journey” has affected their grandmother, who suffers from dementia. “She was coloring the butterfly page and was so in the moment talking about her childhood and how much she loved to draw as a child. Her mind was so sharp when she was coloring.”

Already, the sisters’ book has influenced many. But according to Rain and Erie, “If we created the book for just one person, then for us it was worth the journey.” v Color Mi Vida recently released a second coloring book, “Happy Hour.” For more information or to purchase either book ($9.99), visit colormivida.com.

ABOUT TOWN At home in Ventura, sisters Renata Felix (l.) and Erica Ramirez (r.)

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CONVERSATION

Writers, filmmakers, husband and wife: Cyrus and Betsy Nowrasteh at their home in Camarillo.

FAITHFUL TO THE STORY A local couple brings an Anne Rice fiction book to film.

INTERVIEW BY MARK STORER | PORTRAIT BY T CHRISTIAN GAPEN HOLLYWOOD IS A MEAT GRINDER. EPIC STORIES OF FILM deals gone bad ruining friendships, love affairs, and marriages are legion— and sometimes more intriguing than the films themselves. Cyrus and Betsy Nowrasteh know nothing of that, though.

The Camarillo-based couple, both writers and filmmakers, worked together on a film Cyrus directed called The Stoning of Soraya M. Based on a book by Freidoune Sahebjam, it is the story of a young woman in post-revolutionary Iran who is stoned to death by her village after her husband trumps up charges against her. The film won critical acclaim and a number of awards.

Both Betsy and Cyrus have written screenplays separately and met with success. Cyrus wrote the controversial ABC film The Path to 9/11,

which aired one time before being removed from the airwaves; it is said that members of the Clinton administration exerted considerable pressure to ban it. He also wrote and directed a film for HBO called The Day Reagan was Shot, among many others. Betsy wrote a screenplay for the film Under Pressure in 1997, which also did well.

But the couple gathered in their kitchen to discuss a film they say changed their lives. The Young Messiah will be released in March and is based on the book “Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt,” by Anne Rice, who sought out the Nowrastehs after she saw The Stoning of Soraya M. The story is a fictional account of Jesus’s life as a boy.

We met with Cyrus and Betsy in their Camarillo home to discuss their partnership and the film, which is just finishing post-production. }}

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What does writing together look like for you two?

Cyrus Nowrasteh: We have offices on opposite ends of the house. We write drafts separately in our own way, and then come together in the kitchen and kick drafts back and forth over coffee or iced tea or whatever.

How did you learn about this story? What drew you to it?

Betsy Nowrasteh: I read the book when it came out and I loved it. This was years ago, and we weren’t thinking about the book at all other than just reading it. Anne Rice had written those darker stories, the vampire books, and I kind of get that shift from the dark to the light that she did. She definitely explored the dark side in her vampire books and such, but this one went the opposite direction.

CN: I thought it was really a fresh take on the Jesus story, and I was intrigued with it. I mean, this story has been told in many ways and this one seemed such a new way to approach it. We tried to be as Biblically consistent as we could in the portrayal of Jesus’s character, but we are talking about the lost years here and there’s no background for it. The Bible mentions Jesus once at 12 years old, and then you don’t see or hear from him again until he’s 30, so this is an attempt to explain that time, but to do so from a faithful point of view.

I understand the story impacted you both. Can you describe that evolution?

BN: I think it was a matter of deepening faith that was already there. It’s hard to write a film like this, to make it and not be impacted by the story. These are the most well known characters in history, and trying to make them real and human was a challenge.

CN: All the films I make impact me in some way, but with first Soraya and now The Young Messiah… the stories are both powerful, but they’re also very different.

Soraya is a journey into darkness but The Young Messiah is a journey into light. And though they’re both very different stories, there is a connection in having worked on both of them in this way. We’ve written a few things together, and Soraya and this got made, and that feels good to both of us. It’s more than coincidence.

Was it an arduous film to make?

CN: We filmed in Italy, which was certainly easier than shooting in Jordan, where we shot Soraya. It had its difficulties, but it was a much easier time. It was the normal kind of problems of making a film. But at one point, we had to shut down production because we didn’t have a distributor. It was very painful and difficult to have to shut down in the middle of it, and that’s a hard thing to do—and to start back up again. But the project just wouldn’t go away. Focus Features, which is part of NBC, signed on to do distribution and we finally felt we were getting somewhere.

How long was the shutdown? How did it impact the process?

CN: We shut down in February 2013 and went back in July 2014. We went back again in November last year and were editing, and we delivered the movie in May of this year. We worked with Focus Features, and our producers, Chris Columbus and Michael Bar Nathan of 1492 Pictures, were just tremendous for us during this time. It was a 41-day production schedule, but it came in a day early once it was all said and done.

BN: The film took 40 days and 40 nights, which was quite Biblical.

How was working with Anne Rice? Is the film a faithful rendition of her book?

BN: She’s very happy with the film. I really love her and she couldn’t be more positive, more of a team player. She’s even going to re-release the book with the title of the film. We’re fairly faithful to the book, but we made a lot of subtle and, I suppose, not so subtle changes and did things to make it into a film. Books and films are different, and we wanted to make choices, both theologically and otherwise, that would make the film work.

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Based on a fictional account of Jesus’s life as a boy, The Young Messiah follows his family as they come to understand his divine nature. Shot in Italy, the film took 40 days and 40 nights to complete.

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Co-written by the Nowrastehs and directed by Cyrus, an Iranian-American born in Colorado, The Stoning of Soraya M. was placed on Iran’s list of offensive films even before its release. It ultimately led Iranian authorities to announce consideration of a ban on stoning and other harsh legal punishments.

CN: She let us do our thing.

There was trust there, and she was happy with the choices we made.

We’d connect by email mostly.

She wasn’t on the set with us.

Working with children on a film of this magnitude must be somewhat challenging.

CN: These kids were extraordinary.

We saw over 2,000 children from all over the world in auditions, and the boy playing Jesus, Adam Greaves Neal, is brilliant. Adam’s audition came in to a casting director we worked with in London and I flew there to meet him live. When I met him he was seven; when we made the film, he was nine. I needed someone who could coach him off set so that when he arrived, he could go right to work.

If as director I worked with the kids off camera, that got docked against the time they can work on the film, which is already only four hours a day. So I couldn’t do that and needed 36

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to have someone work with them off camera, and it worked out very well.

Aside from the work stoppage, was there any apprehension about telling such a familiar story?

BN: You almost try to forget about people’s expectations. It’s too daunting to think about these iconic characters and what people know. It helped that we weren’t so steeped in this that we didn’t think of these people as human beings. I mean, these parents, Joseph and Mary, have no idea how to raise this child, and they’re aware that he is special but have no idea what they’re doing with him. It makes for a compelling story.

CN: Of all the work we did, I think I’m most proud of how the story of this family comes together. We stayed fairly faithful not just to the Jesus story, but to the idea that there is this historical family who knew who Jesus was and they had to be faithful every day to raising the son of God in the world. v

The Young Messiah will open March 11, 2016 in theaters across the country. For more information, visit theyoungmessiah.com.

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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: dEC 2015

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Client: Furniture Expo

Ad Executive: Marni Howe & Cactus(805) 648-2244 Succulents

Please_check_this_proof_over_carefully_and_indicate_all_corrections_clearly.__You_will_have_a_“1st_Proof”,_“2nd_Proof”,_and_“Final_Proof”.__If_we_receive_no_proof_after_the_1st_or_2nd_ Proofs,_ad WIll ruN as Is.__If_this_proof_meets_your_approval_on_the_1st_proof,_check_off_“FInal_ProoF_(aPProveD)”_box,_date_and_sign_at_the_bottom. IssuE: dEC 2015

(805) 641-9909 • 33 S. Palm St. Downtown Ventura • modernoasisgarden.com NOTICE: PlEasE Fax ThIs PrOOF TO Get Ready FoRasaP the holidays (805) 648-2245

Date:_______________________________

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Signature:___________________________

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december 2015

NOTICE: PlEasE Fax ThIs PrOOF TO

Date:_______________________________

The riskiest financial move is doing nothing.

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© 2015 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

you to develop a plan and then help you manage your investments and assets through life’s changes. Call today to arrange an appointment. We’ll work together to plan for what may come.

CRC588400 (12/12) CS 7338862 MAR014 04/13

Please_check_this_proof_over_carefully_and_indicate_all_corrections_clearly.__You_will_have_a_“1st_Proof”,_“2nd_Proof”,_and_“Final_Proof”.__ his_proof_meets_your_approval_on_the_1st_proof,_check_off_“FInal_ProoF_(aPProveD)”_box,_date_and_sign_at_the_bottom.

IssuE: DEC 2015 Proofs,_ad WIll ruN as Is.__If_this_proof_meets_your_approval_on_the_1st_proof,_check_off_“FInal_ProoF_(aPProveD)”_box,_date_and_

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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_receive_no_proof_after_the_1st_or_2nd_ 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_ Ask me about other solutions for your small business.

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.

Is. If_this_proof_meets_your_approval_on_the_1st_proof,_check_off_“FInal_ProoF_(aPProveD)”_box,_date_and_sign_at_the_bottom. IssuE: DEC july2015 2015

78 New CoNdos

BRANd New CONSTRUCTIONDate:_____ NOTICE: PlEasE Fax ThIs PrOOF TO Date:_______________________________ NOTICE: PlEasE Fax ThIs PrOOF TO Signature:___________________________ This_proof_is_to_check_for_accuracy_and_is_not_ (805) 648-2245 asaP Signature: (805) 648-2245 asaP 2 Blocks Fromintended_to_show_quality_of_reproduction. downtown Ventura

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Open Escrow Today, Close in 30 Days! wednesday through sunday, from 11AM - 4PM

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PRiCes FRoM $299,000 - $525,000

78 condominiums • Prices from mid 200,000s to low 500,000s www.VenturaCannery.com

TheOpen!

Cannery has received its Final Public Report from the Now Wednesday through Sunday, from"White" 11AM-4PM Bureau of Real Estate. This gives buyers the green light to close escrows, Join us forand a Tour, Snacks, and Refreshments Move-Ins Starting in July!moved we are happy to report that many•happy buyers have already in! The Cannery’s 78 condos offers over 20 different floor plans ranging www.VenturaCannery.com from 548 to 1,233 square feet in studio, loft, and 1 to 3 bedroom he Cannery offers versatile floorThe plansCannery’s ranging from 548 tonew 1,233construction square feet in comes studio, loft, and 1 configurations. brand equipped o 3 bedroom configurations. Units feature mountain, city, and partial ocean views with full top-shelf amenities central air, dual-paned windows,steel and menities, highwith ceilings, generous private including outdoor space, dual-paned windows, stainless solid wood doors to keep residents comfortable year round.

Buyers enjoy ppliances, granite countertops, custom cabinetry, hardwood flooring, walk-in closets, and much more. Beautifulfinishings courtyards such featuring BBQs hardwood and fountains.

Fully gated as outdoor granitefireplaces, countertops, floors, and building stainless ith secure subterreanean parking, and walking distance to downtown shops, bars and the steel appliances, all built into the price of their new home.

Represented by entura Beach Pier. Buy today, lock in a historically low 30-year interest rate, and put as little as Cape WestbyHoldings, California Real Estate License No. 01890071. .5% down! Represented Cape WestInc. Holdings, Inc., BRE #01890071 | ( 8 0 5 ) Ventura 5 7 4 - 9 7 7 9Ca 130 North Garden Street,

130 North Garden Street, Ventura, Ca

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(805) 574-9779 I sales@venturacannery.com

december 2015

NOTICE: PlEasE Fax ThIs PrOOF TO

Date:_______________________________

VENTANA HOME SALES INDEX

➡

AVERAGE PRICE

➡

HOMES SOLD

-21%

+3.8%

NOVEMBER 2014 VS. 2015 TREND CAMARILLO

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE

NOVEMBER ‘14

NOVEMBER ‘15

50 $625,900

50 $598,400

12 $402,200

7 $362,000

34 $600,100

32 $760,300

25 $478,800

27 $621,700

11 $804,500

13 $902,200

96 $434,800

75 $559,000

25 $262,900

11 $381,760

11 $820,200

7 $557,800

105 $509,200

89 NA

62 $758,900

70 $788,000

87 $524,400

66 $570,600

502

395

FILLMORE

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE NEWBURY PARK

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE MOORPARK

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE OJAI

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE OXNARD

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE PORT HUENEME

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE SANTA PAULA

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE SIMI VALLEY

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE THOUSAND OAKS

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE VENTURA

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE

TOTAL HOMES SOLD

Ventana Monthly Home Sales Index is presented each month as part of the real estate section.

The figures are sourced from sales reported to MLS for the period of 11/1/15 to 11/30/15.

Ventana Monthly Home Sales Index © Ventana Monthly, 2015.

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oceanfront oasis!

Faria Beach

Architectural Masterpiece

High On the ventura hillside As featured in the September 2014 issue of Ventana Monthly, this Pacific coast paradise is one of the most amazing ocean view properties on the coast of Southern California. High on the beautiful hills of San Buenaventura, this architectural masterpiece is the mid-century inspired vision of internationally known designer Philip Nimmo. Dramatic Pacific

Ocean and Channel Islands views are a breathtaking backdrop for this perfect get-away retreat of approximately 2,729 sf (per appraiser). Four fireplaces and guest quarters grace this exciting property. There is a three-car garage on nearly 1/2 acre of native landscaping and gated privacy. Blending the stunning ocean and islands views with the finest materials,

an inspired design and artistic spirit makes this home a living dream. Contact Fred Evans, RE/MAX Gold Coast Realty, 805-339- 3502.

Bedrooms:

3

Bathrooms:

3

Price:

Located just 10 minutes north of downtown Ventura, this oceanfront home is the very definition of R-E-L-A-X-E-D. You can watch the pelicans dive for their dinner daily, and often see dolphins swimming by close to shore.

Pick your watersport: paddle boards, kayaks, surfboard, or just a walk on the beach--it’s all part of the Faria Beach experience. Accented by open beam ceilings, this beauty has ocean

views from nearly every room.

The large deck has a spa and direct access to the beach. What are you waiting for? Contact Jeff Roundy or Sam Benner , Ventura Beach Properties Keller Williams 805-465-7365 Bedrooms:

4

Bathrooms:

2

Price:

$2,395,000

$3,400,000

Lovingly Maintained home

lots of great features

Wow Factor!

1920s beach cottage

Experience the charm and character of a bygone era with the raised hearth wood-burning fireplace, oversized picture windows with spectacular ocean views and high coved ceilings. Excellent location on the center of Hollywood Beach and ideally located next to permanent beach access (not a vacant lot), which provides open space on three sides. Spectacular views to the West and North. An extra large oceanfront deck allows for 42

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watching the waves, sunset views and entertaining! This is a unique property with many possibilities.

Two bedrooms and a bathroom are on the street side of the home, while an ocean view kitchen with breakfast nook, and another bathroom, are on the beach side. The large living room is the centerpiece with great views. There is also a laundry room and 1-car garage. Lovingly enjoyed as a permanent residence for many years,

december 2015

this property would also make an outstanding weekend getaway or vacation property. Rare opportunity! 2+2, Presented by Ariel and Karen, Coldwell Banker Previews International, 805-746-2070.

Bedrooms:

2

Bathrooms:

2

Price:

$2,375,000

Every once in a while a home comes on the market that is ‘special’-- a home that has been caringly maintained, thoughtfully updated taking into careful consideration the home’s original design and character – all well-loved. This is that home! Large, fully-fenced & beautifully landscaped lot! Used-brick front-porch!

Handsome wood and beveled-glass front-door! Wood floors & colonial doors with brushed nickel hardware!

Recessed lighting! Charming living area with bay window & crown molding! Gourmet kitchen with bold granite counters, maple & glass cabi-

nets & stainless appliances! En suite master! Kohler & Grohe fixtures!

Central heat & A/C! PLUS, an amazing outdoor living area with saltillo tile, tropical landscaping & fountain!

This is the one you’ve been waiting for! www.337Wesley.com. Contact Blake Mashburn, Troop Real Estate, 805-368-0202.

Bedrooms:

3

Bathrooms:

2

Price:

$555,000

“Better Call Blake ”!

A special home

Every once in a while a home comes on the market that is ‘special’. It’s not a home that some investor is flipping. Or a fixer that requires loads of sweat, blood & tears. But a home that has been caringly maintained, thoughtfully updated taking into careful consideration the home’s original design & character & maybe most importantly of all, loved. This is that home! Just a few of the too many to list here features include: Large, fullyfenced & beautifully landscaped lot! Used-brick front-porch!

Handsome wood & beveled-glass front-door! Wood floors & colonial doors with brushed nickel hardware! Recessed lighting!

Charming living area with bay window & crown molding! Gourmet kitchen with bold granite counters, maple & glass cabinets & stainless appliances! En suite master! Updated baths! Kohler & Grohe fixtures! Central heat & A/C! PLUS, an amazing outdoor living area with saltillo tile, tropical landscaping & fountain! view more pictures: www.337Wesley.com Priced at $555,000

One of ventura’s most sought-after neighborhoods This 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home boasts some 2000+/- square feet of living space on 1 floor, while the flexible floor plan also works well as a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom with a 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom ‘lock-out’ guest-quarters with private entry! Move-in ready home on a quiet, tree-canopied street. Recent improvements, include an updated kitchen, tiled floors, sky-lights, owned, not leased solar system for super-low electrical bills, tank-less water-heater, auto-attic fan, auto E.Q. gas-meter turn-off, water-softener, newer copper plumbing, newer main water-line, newer 30-year roof, newer paint in & out! Expanded, open-concept floor plan, with fireplace & sky-lite; cozy family room opens to the covered patio and rear yard. Ample dining area, as well as the spacious master-suite with en suite master bathroom!

VIEW MORE PICTURES: www.75LaVerne.com Offered at Improved Price $599,900

Looking for water views?!?

This Port Marluna property is situated on gated Coral Island, within the master-planned Seabridge community & features DIRECT WATER VIEWS from the living area, master-suite & private balcony! This model perfect, 2nd floor unit boasts 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths & some 1700 SF of elegant living space on one floor! Features include 14’ ceilings, custom paint, crown moldings, travertine floors, custom fireplace, recessed lighting, custom lightfixtures & window coverings, ceiling fans & central A/C! You’ll enjoy all the amenities of Seabridge including BBQ areas, outdoor fireplaces, water-features, tennis court, pool, spa, fitness center, clubhouse & all within walking or biking distance to restaurants, shops & the beach!

VIEW MORE PICTURES: www.1554Seabridge.com Offered at $675,000

Real Estate

Lori Stern

CalB.R.E. #01513542 CalB.R.E. #01065624

Jane Robertson Loan Officer

805-701-5232

NMLS# 242474

805-368-0202 www.BlakeMashburn.com

Your #1 Choice for Ventura County Real Estate... since 1990!

Please_check_this_proof_over_carefully_and_indicate_all_corrections_clearly.__You_will_have_a_“1st_Proof”,_“2nd_Proof”,_and_“Final_Proof”.__If_we_rec 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_t

Mark & Bonny

Judy Bob

You’ll feel at home with us!

Teryn

Tina

Bonny Goetz srEs

Mark Goetz GrI

805-886-5543

805-895-9836

CaBre:_01030186_/_01967870

CaBre:_01030186_/_01967870

Goetzyourhome.com 8030 Agate st., Ventura

856 Bluewater Way, Port Hueneme

MotivAted Seller...

PriCe reduCtion $565,000

SurfSide Condo $265,000 2 Bedroom / 2 Bath Condo

4 Bedroom/3 Bath home

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Great_home_with_3_bedrooms_upstairs_and_a_bedroom_and_ full_bath_downstairs._excellent_neighborhood!

Coming Soon 2393 Ventura Ave., Ventura

$349,000

2 Bedroom / 2 Bath Condo in sycamore Village.

Please contact us if you are interested in buying, selling, investing or property management.

Client: Properties Ad Executive: Kelly S 266 Malkin Roosevelt, Ventura By the way...

We Wish You A Merry Christmas!

Please_check_this_proof_over_carefully_and_indicate_all_corrections_clearly.__You_will_have_a_“1st_Proof”,_“2nd_Proof”,_and_“Final_Proof”.__If Built by Cherry Construction, this

F I N E

993 e. santa Clara st., Ventura

Built in 1920 by a local landowner, the Valentine House is a captivating Historic Landmark craftsman that has been restored and renovated to just-built condition while incorporating some fantastic modern upgrades. $1,100,000

L I V I N G

I N

V E N T U R A

C O U N T Y

m o n t h l y

Coldwell_Banker_and_the_Coldwell_Banker_logo_are_registered_service_marks_of_Coldwell_Banker_real_estate_llC._ Proofs,_ad ruN as Is.__If_this_proof_meets_your_approval_on_the_1st_proof,_check_off_“FInal_ProoF_(aPProveD)”_box,_date_and_s PresidentialWIll Estates home boasts 5 large Coldwell_Banker_residential_Brokerage_is_owned_by_a_subsidiary_of_nrT_llC._If_you_have_a_brokerage_relationship_with_ another_agency,_this_is_not_intended_as_a_solicitation. bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, and beautiful pool. $919,999

teryn Bonime

Judy Fairchild

This_proof_is_to_check_for_accuracy_and_is_not_ intended_to_show_quality_of_reproduction.

hands-on

NOTICE: PlEasE Fax ThIs PrOOF TO Date:__________ Signature:______ (805) 648-2245 asaP roPerty anagement

P

m

We focus on providing our clients & tenants with the personal attention they deserve.

1438 s. la luna, ojai

384 Garfield Rondo, Ventura

3 Bedroom ranch bungalow in the heart of the Ojai Valley. Nicely appointed with room to grow. Newer 4 bay garage. Come see this lovely oak studded property. $589,000

3 bedroom 2 bath East Ventura home on a large cul-de-sac lot. Freshly painted interior featuring smooth, re-texured ceilings. Best buy in the neighborhood! $475,000

Judy Fairchild

tina Comden

Call us to guide you through Listing or Buying

I use Malkin Properties to manage all of my investment properties – and I couldn’t be happier!!

Ronald Sobol Call Us anytime

(805) 279-1141

FairchildandRidgway.com

Real Estate Services, Property Management & Real Estate Investments

Sydney Malkin

Malkin Properties, Inc.

LICENSE: #01957507 WEB SITE: MalkinPropertiesInc.com MalkinSydney@gmail.com EMAIL:

3639 HARBOR BOULEVARD SUITE #201 VENTURA, CALIFORNIA 93001

Broker & Owner

CalBRE#01060428

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Windjammer room 1080 navigator dr. ventUra Ca

Malkin Properties, Inc.

805-339-3585

44

monthly edUCation seminar holiday inn

Real Estate Services, Property Management & Real Estate Investments.

december 2015

Date:_____

SHORT LIST JACOB MARLEY’S CHRISTMAS CAROL

Through December 20 | Ojai Art Center Theater Chained, shackled, and tormented by a Sprite, Jacob Marley can finally free himself, if he redeems Ebenezer Scrooge.

“Scrooge? I have to redeem old Scrooge? The one man I knew who was worse than I was? Impossible!” he screams.

But what else could he do but accept the challenge in this zany play. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. $18 general admission. $15 seniors, students, and Art Center members. 113 S. Montgomery St., Ojai. For more information, visit ojaiact.org.

22ND VICTORIAN HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

December 4-6 & 11-13 | Dudley House, Ventura The 22nd Dudley House Victorian Holiday Boutique will be one this season’s great local events. The House is decorated inside by dozens of crafters who will be selling their items. The house has been an ongoing preservation activity since 1977 and the interior is complete with much of the original furniture. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 805.654.8381.

VENTURA WINTER WINE WALK & HOLIDAY STREET FAIR

December 5 | Downtown Ventura The Ventura Winter Wine Walk & Holiday Street Fair will kick off at noon, with the fair taking over the 400 and 500 blocks of Main Street. The fair will be free and open to the public. At 4 p.m., the Wine Walk gets started, with Downtown businesses showcasing a variety of wineries and breweries. Wine tasting will end at 7:15 p.m. For more information, visit venturawinterwinewalk.com.

OXNARD CHRISTMAS PARADE

December 6 | Downtown Oxnard The Annual Oxnard Christmas Parade, themed “Surf, Sand & Celebrating the Season,” is a beloved event for the whole family. Enjoy colorful marching bands, equestrian units, local school groups, spirited floats, and a visit from Santa. The parade route is A, 5th, and C Streets in Downtown Oxnard. 10 a.m. to noon.

For more information, call 805.247.0197.

ARIANNA STRING QUARTET

December 6 | Logan House, Ojai One of the finest chamber ensembles in the U.S., the Arianna String Quartet will return to Ojai for a concert with artistic director Heidi Lehwalder. A “Meet the Artists” reception will immediately follow the 3 p.m. performance. Reservations $25 for general admission, $15 for students. 8585 Ojai-Santa Paula Rd., Ojai.

For more information, visit chamberonthemountain.com.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

December 10 – 13 | T.O. Civic Arts Plaza Originally a novella written by Charles Dickens and published in London in 1843, “A Christmas Carol” tells the story of a bitter old miser named Ebenezer Scrooge and his transformation into a gentler, kind man after visitations by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Full of music, laughter, love, and family, this show is designed to put you in the holiday spirit. $29. Scherr Forum Theatre. 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. For more information, visit civicartsplaza.com.

WELCOME EARTHLINGS EXHIBIT

December 12 – January 10 | galerie102, Ojai galerie102 will present “Welcome Earthlings,” a solo show of new works by Ventura artist Jane Peterson, opening Saturday, December 12 with an artist’s reception from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and on view through January 10, 2016. The artist explores the spectrum of human emotion, with particular attention to anxiety, passion, and fear, as well as an element of humor. Cartoon-like

characters make their way through Peterson’s fanciful compositions, wandering between reality and the subconscious.

Peterson always starts with drawing, then digital tools are employed to arrive at the final composition. 102 W. Matilija St., Ojai. For more information, visit galerie102.com.

DEC 6

ARIANNA STRING QUARTET

SANTA TO THE SEA

December 13 | Oxnard Run for fun. Run for joy. Run for the kids. Run in a costume. This event includes a Sanc­tioned Half Marathon, Two-person Half Marathon Relay, 5K Run/Walk, and 1K Kids Fun Run, Diaper Dash, Charity Challenge, Neighborhood Challenge, Finish Line Festival & Holiday Marketplace, Toy Drive (3,000 toys collected in 2014), and a Scholarship Program (100 scholarships were awarded in 2014). The run will take place citywide and include a route through Downtown. For more information, visit santatothesea.com.

39TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARADE OF LIGHTS & FIREWORKS

December 18 & 19 | Ventura Harbor Village Ventura Harbor will celebrate the season with its 39th Annual Holiday Parade of Lights & Fireworks. Enjoy festive dining seaside while you watch the decorated boats go by. The shops are open in the Village for last minute gift shopping. Visit the Main Lawn for carnival rides; kids will love free visits with Santa. (On Saturday they can see Santa and his sleigh fly through the sky.)

6:30 p.m. 1583 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura. For more information, visit venturaharborvillage.com.

DEC 12 - JAN 10

WELCOME EARTHLINGS EXHIBIT

JAY LENO

December 27 | Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza One of the country’s premier comedians will bring his popular brand of humor to Thousand Oaks. Jay Leno’s “everyman” style and personality have made him a late-night talk show leader for decades and have helped him earn millions of fans worldwide. He’s performed hundreds of comedy shows around the U.S. for more than 20 years and remains passionate about performing in front of live audiences. Tickets: $134, $94, $84, $64. 7 p.m. Fred Kavli Theater. 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. For more information, visit civicartsplaza.com.

7TH ANNUAL NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION

December 31 | Ronald Reagan Library Celebrate the arrival of 2016 under the wings of Air Force One. Enjoy an elaborate night of celebration, hors d’oeuvres, dinner stations, gourmet desserts, and a champagne toast at midnight. Dance to live music from The Platinum Groove. General Admission (21 and over only): $150 per person (tax and gratuity included), includes general seating at tables of 10. VIP Package (21 and over only): $175 per person (tax and gratuity included), includes preferred seating with a private table for your group and wine for your table. Reservations must be made by Monday, December 28, 2015 at 9 a.m. Cocktail attire is suggested. 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. For more information, visit reaganfoundation.org.

DEC 27

JAY LENO

ON THE HORIZON CANCER HOPE FOUNDATION 5TH ANNUAL 5K AND 10K

January 9, 2016 | Ventura Beach Promenade Camarillo-based Cancer Hope Foundation will host its 5th Annual 5K and 10K to raise money for Camp Keepsake 2015.

A program of Cancer Hope Foundation, the Camp is a place where adults with cancer, as well as cancer survivors, can go with their family and friends to spend time away from the stressful routine of doctor visits and treatments. To register, visit cancerhopefoundation.org/chf. Entry includes free shirt, post-race food, and music. 8 a.m. For more information. visit cancerhopefoundation.org.

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ÂŽ Realtors Exceptional Real Estate from the Beaches to the Hillside

Thank you for voting us among the Best Realtors in Ventura County for the sixth consecutive year!

Luxury Kapalua Resort, Maui Residence

3561 Ocean Drive, Hollywood Beach

Aloha! One of the most exclusive gated communities on Maui in Pineapple Hill Estates. This single story 4081 square foot home is situated on a 20,541 SQ FT Ocean View lot right on the front line of the Kapalua Bay Golf Course. Huge great room with expansive pocket doors leading out to the hot tub and pool. 4 Bd 4.5 Ba Enjoy clubhouse pavilion privileges. Shuttle Service. Two tennis courts. $3, 475,000

1920s beach cottage with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and superb views. Beachfront location plus permanent beach access to the North means open space and more view! Extra large oceanfront deck, spacious living room with high coved ceilings and fireplace. Rare opportunity in Hollywood Beach! $2, 375,000

st New Li

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st New Li

3055 Sunset Lane, Hollyood Beach Upgraded Ocean view condo in HarborWalk! Bright end-unit. Walk 1 min. to be on the sand in Hollywood Beach. Cross the street in the other direction to the Channel Islands Harbor. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, plus den and multiple decks. Pools, spas, tennis! $509,000

sold!

ing!

2583 Jacklight Cove, Port Hueneme Immaculate townhome in the Marlbourough Seaside Village community. Walk or bike to the beach, harbor, Seabridge and military base. Two-car attached garage, patio, 2 bedrooms, 3 full baths plus a den. Pools and spas! $349,900

sold!

5131 Breakwater Way, Oxnard Shores

89 Los Altos Street, Hollywood Beach

Santa Barbara style! Tropical yard, bubbling fountain, newer kitchen, flooring, decks, appliances. Brand-new furnace. 3+2.5. All bedrooms on ground floor, two with sliders leading to the lush backyard. Second floor has gourmet kitchen, dining area, living and family rooms, and large fireplace.

Listed for $824,000

Beachfront! Spectacular views from this renovated 2-story townhome with attached garage on the SAND in Hollywood Beach. Decorator colors, crown moulding, wainscoting, gorgeous kitchen with ocean views. 3+3, more than 1600 sq. ft. and move-in ready! Listed for 1,499,000

www.ArielandKaren.com (805) 746-2070 • (805) 824-2004 Ariel Palmieri CalBre #01501968

Karen Stein CalBre #01505059

Full Service Real Estate From The Coast To The Hillside

EXPERIENCE THE FRED EVANS TEAM Fred has been selected as one of the Top 250 teams in the U.S. and has been in the top 100 RE/MAX teams in the country for the past 16 consecutive years.

Amazing Ocean View, of the coast of ventura. Contemporary architectural masterpiece in hills above Ventura w/ 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, about 2780 sq ft (per appraiser), guest quarters, private & gated on nearly 1/2 acre at the top of the hill!

Listed for $3,400,000 www.1877Hillcrest.com

Ventura Faria Beach Ocean Front Cottage. Nantucket style 2+2 w/ loft or storage area above the garage. Remodeled & expanded in 1985. Approx. 1342 Sq. ft. per seller. Oversized ocean front lot ~ 4166 sq. ft. Back viewing deck. Originally built in 1928. Well maintained.

Offered at $1,950,000 www.3968PCH.com

Classic 1927 Spanish Ocean View Single-Story Home.

1/4 acre+ w/ ocean views from nearly every room. 3+3, about 2295 sq ft. Views of Channel Islands, harbor & pier. Patio deck w/ fireplace, & private courtyard w/ pergola & fountain.

Listed for $1,695,000 www.329Lupine.com

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1894 queen anne (victorian) home in downtown ventura. Beautiful 2.5 story. Designated “City of Ventura Historic Landmark”. Can be used as Commercial or Residential use. Featuring 5 BR., fine woodwork, covered portico, & 2nd-floor porch w/ ocean views. Detached office over the 2 car garage. Street to street lot w/ over 18,000 sq. ft., possible lot split, or built a second unit.

NOW Listed for $1,595,000 www.605poli.com

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Ventura Mediterranean Coastline View Villa. Breathtaking ocean & city views from approx. 4000 SQ FT, 3+3 ½ home. Located in Historic Downtown San Buenaventura. Close to all amenities such as restaurants, shops, entertainment venues, beach & pier. Large lot approx.. 14,000 SQ FT. www.334Ferro.com Offered at $1,695,000

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Magnificent Ocean and city view ventura home. Featuring 3+3 w/ over 2300 sq. ft. Views from bedrooms, dining & living room. Partially-finished & functional basement. The home has been remodeled over the years w/ modern appliances & elegant touches. listed for $1,399,900 www.2134Sunset.com

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Spectacular Ventura Hillside Custom Ocean & Island View Home. This 5+4 home overlooks Pierpont bay & marina w/ views to the Santa Monica mountains. Approximately 2789 sq ft.

Views from most rooms, master suite w/ viewing deck. www.339Artemisia.com soldd for $1,235,000

Santa Paula Prestigious McKevett Hights 1920’s Spanish Revival. Hillside view estate w/ 3+3 ½, billiard & a media room. Over 3100 sq. ft. Designed by architect Roy Wilson for the pioneer Harding Family. Restored with quality & character. Corner, street to street lot, w/ ~16,000 sq. ft. www.512N8th.com Offered at $939,000

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largest floor plan in hillsborough santa paula! Private location w/ ocean & Santa Clara River Valley views. Featuring 4 + 3 w/ over 3000 sq ft. Master suite w/ viewing balcony. Gourmet kitchen w/ breakfast area & viewing balcony.

Spacious living room, & family room w/ viewing deck. Outdoor kitchen, fire pit & spa.

Listed for $749,000 www.708Montclair.com

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Oak View Saddle Mountain Custom Home over 2 acres. Designed by renowned Architect Zelma Gussin Wilson. Voted “Top 10 Luxury Baths 2014” by duPont Registry. 4 BR+3 ½ BA w/ approx.4225 sq ft, built in 1989. Lower master suite, gourmet kitchen, great room, & room for pool, guest house or more.

Sold for $1,214,000 www.10885Encino.com

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Ventura Heights Ocean & Island view home. Charming 3+2 w/ wood flooring in living room. Master bedroom w/ fabulous view.

Interior laundry area, & large viewing deck w/ coastline view. Alarm system. Air conditioning. Private terraced rear yard w/ new fence. sold for $975,000 www.2345Sunset.com

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Camarillo las posas estates golf course home. Single story approx. 2800 sq ft & detached studio/guest quarters w/ ¾ bath.

Approx. 21,000 sq ft lot. 3+ 2 ½ & 3 fireplaces. Master suite w/ views of gardens, pool, ocean & golf course. Updated kitchen, dual paned windows, newer furnace & air conditioning. www.657CalleDelNorte.com sold for $900,000

Fred Evans - Bringing a world of Real Estate knowledge & experience to Ventura County for over 30 years! Over 2,900 families served.

Over 30 Years!

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Buying or Selling? Call The Fred Evans Team: 805.339.3502

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LJ S

45th ANNIVERSARY SALE A once-in-a-lifetime Vault Sale celebrating 45 years in business Come see the Treasures From The Vault!

A collection of the finest Gemstones curated by Bob Lynn for over 45 years.

Loose Diamonds, Sapphires, Rubies, and wonderful colored Gems.

Rings, Pendants, and more!

A chance to own Gemstones which haven’t been available for years at prices which haven’t been seen in decades.

Some items priced below current wholesale.

Open EVERY DAY until December 24, 2015.

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805.642.5500 www.lynnsjewelry.com All of our custom designs have been made from 100% recycled gold for more than 40 years. Respect for the Earth is not a new idea at Lynn’s.