The Delights of Carpinteria

The

Delights

of

Carpinteria Watercolors and Words by

Ray Cole

Acknowlegements This collection of paintings and drawings resulted from the encouragement provided by a group of rather vocal friends. Then they listened patiently while I agonized over every decision that had to be made. Some helped locate several earlier original paintings that would otherwise have been left out. For that support I thank them all.

Lynda Lang and others at the Chamber Valley Chamber of Commerce read and re-read the copy to help eliminate my factual mistakes. Mike VanStry provided expert guidance for the layout of words and pictures. Bill Dayka and his talented team at Rockwell Printing brought the book to life.

Thanks also go to the photographers who shot the original photos that stimulated so many of my images.

“Orchids”

There is something challenging about painting delicate flowers. Mary grew several orchids, and loved to shop for new ones. Watercolor. 6” x 16” 1997

Dedication This book is dedicated to my friends and family members who seem to enjoy their visits to Carpinteria, this delightful, friendly little community on the beach in California.

Copyright Š 2013 Ray Cole All rights reserved.

ISBN: 0615795609 ISBN-13: 978-0-615-79560-7

The Delights of Carpinteria . . .

Just minutes from the hustle and bustle of world famous Santa

fertile soils and exquisite climate. Today many acres are devoted

Barbara, lays the peaceful little beach town of Carpinteria. Less

to nurseries growing cut flowers and exotic orchids, flourishing

than six miles from crest of the Santa Ynez mountains to the

alongside avocados and a few remaining lemons.

ocean and stretching along the coast for hardly any more, this little gem offers a retreat that few ever discover and only a few

This picturesque setting, nestled between the Santa Ynez

thousand have selected as their home.

Mountains and the Los Padres National Forest and the sands of the Pacific shore, has attracted innumerable artists, perhaps none

Carpinteria’s history reaches back to the days long before the

more prolific than Ray Cole. Since he arrived in 1995 Cole has

Spanish first discovered the blessings of the California Pacific

captured the sights and landmarks of this charming community

shores. Earlier the native Chumash Indians had made their home

in a series of nearly 100 original watercolors – a selection of

in the region, taking advantage of the plentiful woods and natural

these are presented here in loving tribute to a setting unequalled

tar seeps to build their cleverly crafted tomol canoes, necessary

anywhere along the California coast – with Cole’s personal

to capitalize on the local fishing opportunities.

comments on the works added alongside.

Later Spanish explorers and eventually other settlers from the East

Many of Cole’s original paintings command wall space in local

took advantage of the balmy climate and established a thriving

households and now most can be seen on the Cole website:

agricultural community, growing the first local lima beans, walnuts,

raycolesart.com. Prints of most of his works are available at

followed by lemons, avocados and a wide array of field crops in the

FineArtAmerica.com.

Loon Point ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2012

The brilliant sun was so hard to capture. The original photo was even more exciting. Painting was fun: my favorite color is yellow.

Along the Carpinteria beaches you find one attractive spot after another. At Loon Point the setting sunlight creates magic as it reflects from the surf, revealing a pristine beach and a peaceful setting for endless shell searching.

Open for lunch every day since it opened in 1914, The Spot hamburger stand is an absolute “must stop” for hundreds of visitors and locals.

Many other dining places - The Palms, Tony’s, Sly’s, GiannFranco’s, Siam Elephant, Esau’s and many others are within several minutes walk along Linden Avenue.

The Spot ~ Watercolor 20x16, First in 1997

Several times I have tried to capture the spirit of this wonderful relic.

Palms ~ Watercolor 16x20, 1998 The 1910 building is set against the majesty of the palms along the sidewalk. The trees will be gone one day – they only live so long.

On the site that was once a grand private beach resort, Cerca del Mar Beach Club, the Carpinteria State Beach Park campground attracts well over 900,000 campers every year.

Shaded campsites steps away from the tide pools, pristine beaches, an array of picnic areas and recreation facilities all add to the attraction.

State Beach ~ Watercolor 16x20, 1998

Several months before they “improved it� I caught this impression of the Park entrance.

Linden at Sunset ~ Watercolor 22x12, 2012

Armed with a photo by Matt Dayka the drama of this dramatic sunset proved to be much easier to paint than I had anticipated. The purple clouds and the setting sun were too good to miss.

Along the shore dozens of well-maintained rental apartments and condos are just a few hundred yards from Carpinteria’s downtown shopping and dining areas.

Misty Sunset

Watercolor 20x16, 2012 As the evening fog crept in toward the shore I was mesmerized by the number of people enjoying the last rays of the setting sun.

Even in the fall and early winter Carpinteria’s moderate climate provides a comfortable environment for those who enjoy a restful walk along the beaches. You can almost feel their pleasure. The warm, misty evenings are almost magical.

Since 1900 a flight wooden steps down from the Carpinteria Bluffs provide easy access for visitors to explore the numerous tide pools and sandy beaches.

Nearby, from the cliff visitors can watch as the five-month pupping season occurs in every winter into spring at the Carpinteria Seal Rookery.

Down to the Beach ~ Watercolor, 2001

The task here was to properly show the dramatic drop down to the beach while still showing the expanse of it all.

A morning stroll along the sands reveals many spectacular sights: dramatic rocks, the historic pier, the fascinating tide pools, views of the islands and unlimited tranquility.

The second largest natural oil seep in California and related tar deposits have influenced Carpinteria’s’ culture for centuries. The early Chumash Indians relied on these deposits for their livelihood. The pier and the adjacent oil processing facility have been here since the 1950s.

Rocky Beach ~ Watercolor 20x16, 1999

The morning sunlight accents the peaceful setting, with the strength of the pier and equipment on the skyline.

Pier

Watercolor 20x16, 1999

When viewed from the cliffs above the pier takes on a different look that I wanted to capture.

Pier II

Watercolor 20x16, 1999

Sound of the Surf ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2010

Sunlight on the waves is always a challenge. Here the white-water spray contrasts with the blue in the waves to create a powerful attraction.

The sights and sounds of surf crashing onto the few rocky outcroppings are exhilarating, and an attraction for so many beach lovers.

Museum ~ Watercolor 20x16, 1998 I couldn’t resist adding an elderly couple (Mary and me) coming out of the Museum. The view is from across Maple Avenue.

The History Society Museum is a gem – providing a remarkable glimpse into the history of the Native American, early Spanish and Mexican settlers, and the American settlers in this special community. Beautifully staged exhibits tell the Carpinteria story in just a brief visit.

Avocado Festival ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2012

There was no way to accurately show the Festival without creating my own setting – so all this is imagination.

On the first full weekend of every October since 1986 up to 100,000 joyful visitors have shared the excitement of the California Avocado Festival, celebrating the many qualities of this amazing green delicacy, and witnessing the world’s largest vat of guacamole. Food, fun, music, arts & crafts, all draw the enthusiastic crowds.

Year around local growers of fruit, vegetables and dozens of varieties of flowers and orchids display their wares along Linden Avenue. Any Thursday afternoon you can stock up on the best of everything during a block-long stroll.

Farmers’ Market – Spring ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2003 On several occasions I painted glimpses of the Market – sometimes looking to the north; sometimes the reverse. I never quite caught all the color.

Farmers’ Market – Fall Watercolor 20x16, 2003

At world-famous Rincon Point and several other nearby beaches, surfers regularly enjoy their sport. The yearround moderate climate keeps them coming back while the warmth of the setting sun provides a reward at day’s end.

The Big One ~ Watercolor 16x20, 2010

Found the original photo in DEEP Magazine and had to try to capture the crash of the wave and still keep the colors fresh and clean.

At Sunset ~ Watercolor 16x20, 2010

Cheated a bit. To keep the colors clear I painted the surfer separately and added him back into the picture with an Exacto knife.

The old depot is gone now, but many visitors still come to Carpinteria by train. The frequent Amtrak service, with the current platform just a block or two from both the beaches and downtown, makes every visit easy and convenient.

Carpinteria Depot ~ Watercolor 23x18, 2003

An old B&W photo told the story of the way things were in the 1940s.

After some research I added the original colors to give some current flavor.

Misty Depot ~ Watercolor 16x20, 2012

The morning mists make the funky modern platform almost attractive. The effect is almost mystical.

Until 1997 the original Fish family lima bean plant stood just north of the State Beach Park. Mr. Fish imported the first lima beans from Peru into the United States to establish the domestic production of this crop.

Old Lima Bean Plant ~ Watercolor 20x16, 1997

A few months before it was removed I painted this historic old building at least twice.

I didn’t try to show its real history – just how I saw it then.

Lima Bean Plant II ~ Watercolor 20x16, 1997

The Carpinteria shore and the nearby Salt Marsh attract dozens of varieties of sea birds and other wildlife. In turn these attract the attention of hundreds of bird watchers and nature lovers year around.

Blue Heron ~ Watercolor 20x16, 1999 On a morning walk I discovered this Blue Heron wading in the surf at the foot of Linden Avenue.

Carpinteria Reflection Ink on paper 22x12, 1997

The reflections of birds in water fascinate me.

Here we worked in black ink.

East along the shore from the State Beach lies an area locals call The Bluffs. Virtually undisturbed since the time of the Chumash, this headland offers trails for leisurely hikes with superb views of the Pacific Ocean and the several Islands in the Santa Barbara Channel.

Lonely Tree ~ Watercolor, 20x16, 2001

Walking along the Bluffs reveals some wonderful scenery – sites any artist would try to capture. I have tried several times, sometimes with a bit of success.

The Bluffs ~ Watercolor, 20x16, 2002

The growing popularity of Carpinteria’s local microbrewery is largely brought about by the quality of the unique brews they offer.

But the location helps too.

Sitting on the patio alongside the railroad tracks in a summer evening provides an opportunity to meet locals and visitors alike.

Island Brewing

Watercolor 20x16, 2006

This building is an unusual shape and very hard to represent in a painting.

The rooflines always seem to be wrong.

View From Island Brewing Watercolor 22x12, 2004

Looking towards the beach the view can be spectacular. You realy need a second beer to take it all in. That tree is now struggling to live.

Many years ago the original Fosters Freeze stood alongside Carpinteria Avenue, then the main road north to Santa Barbara. Since updated with inside space and real booths it is still an attraction for those who know a great hamburger and soft serve ice cream.

New Fosters Old Fosters Both watercolors 20x16, 2001-2002

A friend asked for a painting of Fosters Freeze. When it was finished I discovered they were seeking the original old structure they had visited as a kid; hence two versions.

Two at Sunset ~ Watercolor, 20x16, 2004

I couldn’t resist trying to capture the fantastic colors on that special evening.

So often a winter sunset seen from along the Carpinteria beach works like a visual magnet: the incredible views simply demand your attention. A wonderful conclusion to a great day.

Looking north toward the hills or south to the Pacific Linden Avenue is a delight. Just ten very small blocks from end to end, Linden offers a variety of shopping, dining of every flavor, and local attractions too numerous to count: Small shops, sidewalk seating, and very friendly hosts.

Up Linden and Down Linden Watercolors, 20x16, 2001

The tree-lined sidewalks, the strolling passers-by, all set against either the picturesque hills or the Pacific Ocean, attracted my attention.

Near the corner of Elm and Carpinteria Avenue the local news and the mood and interests of Carpinteria are reported weekly through the offices of Coastal View News, the font of all serious discussion and local activities.

Coastal View Newspaper Watercolor, 16x20, 2003

Even a commonplace storefront can offer some delights to the viewer.

Tyler’s Donuts ~ Watercolor, 20x16, 2005

The challenge here was to depict the friendship and camaraderie of old friends sharing a morning coffee.

Several mornings each week Carpinteria locals and visiting friends gather at Tyler’s to sit in the sun and exchange gossip while they enjoy the famous doughnuts and familiar coffee. Other sites offer similar pleasures in several locations all in easy walking distrance.

Fantastic consignment shops, needlework and craft stores, antique collections and several bed-and-breakfasts can all be discovered in restored and recycled old homes throughout the community.

Twice as Nice ~ Watercolor 16x20, 2001

While driving Maple Avenue one morning I spotted these two blonds who seemed to be posing for the sign on the lawn. I couldn’t resist the painting.

Throughout the community a wide variety of stately trees dominate the skyline. Several are designated as Historical Landmarks. Many others simply line the sidewalks adding shade and visual interest.

Torrey Pine ~ Watercolor 16x20, 1999

Towering nearly 100 feet above Carpinteria Avenue this magnificent historic tree is the largest of its kind. A challenge for any painter.

How do you reflect its immense size?

The Berm ~ Watercolor 12x10, 1998

Winter evenings can be special. Exciting clouds, colorful sunsets, and silhouetted figures against the unusual backdrops.

During the winter months a large sand berm is erected along the beach to protect homes and apartments from the occasional stormy tide surges. The berm provides the ideal vantage point to enjoy the spectacular winter sunsets.

Tomol Interpretive Play Area emulates pre-European life on the Channel Islands with a Chumash village, a Tomol boat and native hut replicas where kids can climb and play in a safe area, just yards from the ocean.

Tomol Park ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2013

Dramatic light on the eagle statue and colorful the Rainbow Bridge stimulated my efforts on this one.

Seal Plaza ~ Watercolor 20x16, 1997

Any attempt to depict Carpinteria landmarks must include the fountain at Seal Plaza, surrounded by grapevines and tile mosaics.

In the late 1800’s Carpinteria boasted the world’s largest grapevine – it reached 100 feet wide and yielded 10 tonss of grapes a year. They held town meetings in its shade. Today a replica vine grows around Seal Plaza alongside Linden Avenue as a reminded of this history.

At any time of the day Carpinteria’s beaches are an attraction for young and old alike. The quiet, peaceful ambiance does wonders for the soul.

Couple at the Beach ~ Watercolor, 20x8, 2005

The morning sunshine casting shadows across the deck drew my attention to the peaceful character of this little scene at a friend’s home.

Coffee with Lynda ~ Watercolor 16x6, 1998

Morning sunlight revealed my neighbor Lynda enjoying her first of the day coffee on the pristine beach.

Several years ago the City restored the Salt Marsh alongside Ash Avenue. Eight acres of restored native plantings and wetlands with walking trails throughout make the Salt Marsh a must-see for bird watchers and anyone who enjoys the outdoors.

Salt Marsh ~ Watercolors 16x20, 2001

Viewed from near the beach the Marsh becomes a foreground for my home, with the majestic hills serving as a powerful backdrop.

Here Comes Santa Watercolor 20x16, 2012

Pelicans will probably pull Santa’s sleigh when he comes to Carpinteria next Christmas.

Christmas Tree

We even made cards like this.

The Holiday season is often more attractive for visitors than any other. A unique Holiday Spirit Paradez, a Commemorative Tree Lighting and other events draw many visitors. The weather is often spectacular. Fluffy clouds. Lots of sunshine. Crystal clear air.

The majority of the visitors come to enjoy the beach.

In the summer months the beach provides a relief from the much higher inland temperatures. In the winter the milder climate draws those from the colder areas of the country. It’s nice year ‘round.

Enjoy the Beach ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2001

This was just a fun attempt to show the fun and the color of the local beach.

Umbrellas ~ 16x6, 2000

Here I experimented with ink and watercolor combination.

Almost every faith is represented by a church somewhere in town. Nearly hidden behind the Von’s Grocery, this little church was moved piece-by-piece on wagons 12 miles to Carpinteria from west of Ortega hill in 1892.

Church ~ Watercolor 16x20, 1998 When I started painting local landmarks this setting cried out to be included.

It’s quaint. It’s picturesque.

It’s so typical Carpinteria.

Castro House ~ Watercolor 23x18, 2002

Once I had painted “Twice as Nice� the property owner (one of the blonds) asked if I could paint the original house from her family’s old photos. This is one of the two efforts.

Many years ago this house stood alongside Carpinteria Avenue. It was moved 100 feet south to make room for the gas station now on the corner at Maple Avenue. It was later converted to hold the several small businesses that occupy it today.

Welcome Sign ~ Watercolor 8x6, 1997

As I was sketching this setting it seemed that the cyclist was being welcomed – and attitude that sums up the style of this grand little town.

Approach almost any small American town and a sign like this one stands ready to greet you. This one is alongside Carpinteria Avenue at the Freeway exit as you come from Santa Barbara. Others guard the other entry points.

Cabo’s ~ Watercolor 23x14, 1998

Just for a chuckle I tried to include almost everyone I knew, and quite a few I didn’t know, in this painting. Mary and I are the couple just arriving.

Almost underneath the historic Torrey Pine this restaurant is the gathering place for most Carpinterians at some time or another.

Like Jack’s, Delgados, Giovanni’s and so many other spots in town, its outdoor seating proves ideal for people watching.

Best Western ~ Watercolor 20x16, 1999

Like some others, this place is so big I had to select just a piece to add it to my local scenes.

Representing buildings demands that you get the architecture close to right, and that can be a problem.

There are several dozen hotels, motels, bed-and-breakfast spots, beach apartment rentals, and other places to get comfortable in Carpinteria. If you plan ahead you can find your spot, but last minute arrangements are more difficult.

There are so many fine choices of accommodations throughout Carpinteria.

None are more than a short walk to almost anything else you might need.

Holiday Inn ~ Watercolor 16x20, 2013 When I painted this I couldn’t resist putting back the much larger light fixture that the Architectural Review Board denied – looks so much better.

Hollyhock Cottage ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2010

This quaint little house stands in the heart of downtown, a remnant of much earlier times. I was struck by the cat sitting on the upstairs window ledge.

Many of the smaller buildings throughout the community were built many years ago. Some as far back as 1880. A short walking tour of downtown side streets can be a fascinating experience as you imagine who would have lived where and done what years in the past.

Golden Sunset ~ Watercolor. 23x18, 2008

As I sit at my drawing board this is the view I get looking towards Santa Barbara. The glow of the setting sun often turns the hills into a spectacular vista.

You are surrounded by spectacular views no matter where you turn. The hills to the north sweep down almost to the water in places, and the constantly changing light adds drama to most any scene. After a while you almost take this beauty for granted.

Island View ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2011

Ocean views take on much more interest when there is something on the other side to provide dimension – here it is the Channel Islands.

The chain of islands just off-shore in the Santa Barbara Channel provide a point of reference when you are just sitting on the sand, watching the waves break.

Pelicans ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2001

Awkward on the ground pelicans become elegant in flight. So often they opt to fly in smooth curving lines as they move along the shore.

There are birds everywhere. Excited seagulls. Majestic flights of pelicans. Gangs of several shorebirds – often sandpipers. Phalaropes in flocks of several dozen. Terns. Ospreys. Pairs of ducks over the Marsh. Sometimes geese. Even an occasional swan. Blue herons. Egrets of several sizes. And of course pigeons and sparrows.

Seagulls

Watercolor 10x10 2002

Seagulls seem so frantic; I wanted to try to represent their excitement.

Feeding Joy

Watercolor 20x16, 2003

I had just experimented with the seagull when a friend asked that I paint her grandchild feeding a similar flock of birds.

Coffee Grinder ~ Watercolor. 20x16, 1998

The bikers pausing on a ride along the coast seemed to typify the casual, friendly style that pervades each of Carpinteria shopping areas.

Shopping in Carpinteria is fun. The stores are small, close together – really more a village than a mall. Mostly they are owner-operated, run by friendly people eager to have you in the store. They come and go. The names change but the character stays the same.

Even in the winter months the local beaches have something to offer.

On a cool morning a brisk walk gets rid of the cobwebs and you still have all those other walkers to watch.

Dark Sky ~ Watercolor 20x16, 1997

This dark looming sky added a drama that you don’t usually see over local beaches. I had to try to capture it.

Two at the Beach ~ Watercolor 20x16, 1998

As I sketched this lonely, magnificent tree a couple came out of a nearby motel and settled side-by-side on the bench in what seems to be a very contented arrangement. That is so Carpinteria.

At the foot of Linden Avenue there is an area with ample parking. Nearby you can play volleyball. Visit the City Beach Store in summer. Or just start a walk along several miles of gently sloping beaches.

Volleyball ~ Watercolor 16x6, 1998

Carpinteria beaches are particularly preened during the summer season, but are clean and inviting year around. The volleyball courts are just one of so many venues where everyone in the family can find something fun to do.

Volleyball ~ Watercolor 16x20, 1997

I am not very good at sports figures. Sometimes I even leave them out to avoid my shortcomings.

Mary and Sophia ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2001

This image of Mary and our granddaughter Sophia became a family treasure. Sophia is almost out of school now. I am glad I caught this when I did.

A simple walk along the shore can quickly turn into quality time with your family. The small creatures scurrying in the sand, or the marvels in the tide pools establish memories that can last forever.

Boating Dolphins ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2000

A friend caught a photo of his wife kayaking, amid several friendly dolphins. I simply had to try my skills at rendering the scene.

Where Ash Avenue reaches the shore you can rent a kayak or other watercraft and the launching area is easy to navigate. Almost every day you will see a dolphin or a seal of something of interest in the water.

Fourth of July ~ Watercolor 8x6, 2010

The homes along Padaro Lane are right on the water, offering easy access to some wonderful views if you know the owner.

On this special day the scene was so special.

Independence Day is always a festive time in Carpinteria. The charming little parade, the Rods & Roses Car and Flower show and so much more attract visitors from around the world.

Today the outlying areas of Carpinteria are the home of over a dozen floral nurseries.

They grow exotic flowers of all kinds, and many are open for visitors and shopping.

Carpinteria is the biggest grower of Cymbidium orchids in the country.

OPPOSITE PAGE: The aerial view of Carpinteria, first published in Carpinteria magazine, was much more work that I had expected: so much lettering and it’s useless without the words. Adding the perspective complicated the task even more.

Watercolor pencil and ink, 2008 Floral drawings are always a challenge, but the colors and the delicacy of the shapes can be fascinating. These were all done for possible use as part of a new throw.

Arriving on Amtrak puts you right downtown. Here you will discover a City map and a list of points of interest right at you fingertips. Three or four blocks in any direction shows you most everything, and the shuttle bus waiting at the curb takes you quickly to the rest.

City Market #15 Watercolor 16x20, 2013

Spots we generally overlook can make for interesting paintings. The sunlight through the trees give this little market character and color and it’s a train traveler’s first view of Carpinteria.

Arroyo Paradon Creek ~ Watercolor 20x16, 2013

I have been lucky enough to visit this little spot several times. The view out to the ocean is spectacular.

Running north from Santa Claus Lane, between US101 and the ocean, is picturesque Padero Lane.

This little road provides access to some of the most prestigious home-sites in the country. The only spot where you get a glimpse of the ocean from the lane is at the Arroyo Paradon Creek Bridge

More works by Ray Cole Beyond the more-than-100 paintings and drawings depicted here, other Ray Cole works can be seen on either of two web sites: www.raycolsart.com presents all of his paintings, together with an explanation of his recently published autobiography titled “Lucky Limey”, which is available through Amazon.com. www.fineartamerica.com also shows all the work and provides the opportunity to purchase prints in any size, matted and framed as you wish, and it offers greeting card versions as well.

Several of the original artworks are still available directly from Ray – you can reach him at: ray-cole@cox.net for a current list of these.

Ray Cole

Tulips ~ Watercolor 16x20

Of all my painting this one seemed to be Mary’s favorite. She repeatedly hung it wherever she was spending time. It needs to be here.

Born in London, England in 1930, he resided there until the end of World War II. Then he moved to America and started a new life in Seattle, Washington in 1946.

Ray Cole began his adventures in art at Ballard High School in Seattle, continuing with the help of a two-year scholarship in commercial art at Burnley School of Art in the same city.

Following two years in the U.S. Army he graduated with a communications major from the University of Washington in 1956. He enjoyed a 40 year career in advertising with key management positions at Northrop Corporation, and several major international advertising agencies. He finished his career directing advertising, sales promotion and special events for Sunkist Growers around the world. Despite the successful career he made no commercial use of his artistic interests. He experimented in oils, tempura, casein and other materials but art remained just a hobby until retirement in 1995.

Coincident with his arrival in Carpinteria Ray shifted his attention to watercolors and he attracted considerable attention with his numerous portrayals of local landmarks and attractions. He has completed more than 100 watercolors of the local scene along with 40 or more additional subjects. Other paintings have been featured Yosemite and Napa Valleys, and the Minnesota and Wisconsin countryside where he traveled almost every year with his wife Mary up to her death in 2011. His work is in homes across America and several other countries.

Ray’s watercolors have also been translated into over two-dozen greeting cards.

His drawings of Carpinteria were also the basis for a woven throw produced for the Carpinteria Valley Chamber of Commerce. Several of these pencil and ink drawings have been included here to add decoration.

The story of Cole’s life is recorded in his autobiography “Lucky Limey” available via Amazon.com.

The Cole family creativity does not stop there: His daughter Tracy Cole has published her first novel “A Slip In Time,” augmented with Ray’s illustrations. You can learn more about Tracy by going to her web site: www.t-m-cole.com His son Greg Cole is the Chef and Owner of two highly acclaimed restaurants in Napa Valley: “Cole’s Chop House” and the extremely popular “Celadon.” More about Greg on his web sites: www.coleschophouse.com. and www.celadonnapa.com