THE VOICE OF THE COMMUNITY
BellCanyon
BELL CANYON BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Eric Dersom
Kevin Keegan
Mike Klein
Yossi Kviatkovsky
Bill Napier
Melissa Raff
Steve Rasnick
Barry Schehr
Sean Wagmeister
BELL CANYON COMMUNITY CENTER (BCCC)
Norton Alderson
Steve Bellamy
Kevin Keegan
Sean Wagmeister
BELL CANYON EQUESTRIAN CENTER (BCEC)
Eric Dersom
Peter Machuga
Eric Mann
Jodie Resnick
BELL CANYON COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT (BCCSD)
Norton Alderson
Julie De St Jean
Judy Lantz
Shelby Linka
Peter Machuga
ARCHITECTURAL COMMITTEE (AC)
Richard Ibrahim
Dave Osborn
Scott Sand
AC CONSULTANT
Chiedu Chijindu
AC ENGINEER
Felix Levitas
INTERIM GENERAL MANAGER
Carol Stephenson
ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER
AC COORDINATOR
Cindy Escobar
SENIOR ACCOUNTANT
Charina Aliling
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Jenni Mandelblatt
FRONT OFFICE RECEPTIONIST
Cherie Calabro
ACCESS CONTROL SUPERVISOR
Erman Quitalig
ACCESS CONTROL OFFICERS
Edgar Balberan
Marlin Burt
Julian Cantey
Tyrisha Edwards
Ernesto Garcia
Ruth Garcia
Oscar Marquina
Anthony Portillo
Tiffany Rangel Rocha
Alejandra Sciortino
Alec Skillman
Ador Venturanza
Alec Worthen
FACILITIES MANAGER
COMPLIANCE MANAGER
Travis Simpson
FACILITIES STAFF
Luis Gamboa
Ricardo Garcia Gonzalez
Sunrise in Bell Canyon Saddlebow Area
Photo By: Bondy
Turkey Vulture Saddlebow Area
Photo By: Bondy
DearFriendsandNeighbors,
We are delighted to publish this edition of Insider to inform and entertain you with what is happening in the community. It has been a productive period, and we are happy to report on the progress made in strengthening our community.
To learn more, please join us at the State of the Canyon meeting scheduled for Sunday, March 30, and the Fire Safety Meeting on Saturday, April 5. Both meetings will be held at the Community Center and will start at 2pm.
FinancialGains:
LegalProgress
Good news on the legal front, we resolved all 12 inherited lawsuits, going from 12 to zero --- one netted the community $495K! While we did initiate two lawsuits to claw back Bell Canyon funds, both cases are on a contingency basis, so the community will not bear any expenses and enjoy only the upside if we prevail.
CommunityCenterRental—TheBlue TarpisGone!
The Community Center roof is completed, and the posts in the courtyard will be replaced next. Phase 2, the interior, is being planned. While it will take more time and money, our Community Center will again become a vibrant hub for the community. Further, we can now start rentals to generate revenue.
InvestingintheCommunity:
RoadMaintenance&Improvements
As symbolized by the blue tarp, the Community Center was seriously neglected and deteriorated, and substantially no funds were spent on road maintenance for seven years, leaving the roads in desperate need of repair. As a result, a detailed plan is underway to prioritize our limited funds for our roads' long-term health.
Insurance–CoverageGaps Addressed
The HOA board has successfully addressed coverage gaps in our insurance policies, providing the community better protection against liabilities. This has strengthened our financial security and improved risk management.
ManagementCompany
We are actively exploring proposals from Professional Management Companies to consider the many operational, technological, financial, member-responsive, oversight advantages and long-term accountability guard rails they can provide.
SpiritofVolunteering
CSDPartnership
The Bell Canyon Community Services District (CSD) is becoming increasingly supportive by agreeing to sponsor future community events and exploring ways to bring more resources to our members.
FireSafety–EPC&Strategic Partnerships
The BCA has taken initial fire safety steps by organizing the Emergency Preparedness Committee (EPC) and collaborating with Boeing, Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD), and local politicians to protect our families, homes, and community.
Committees&VolunteerEfforts
To address community concerns, the HOA has revitalized committees, including the EPC and Maintenance and Welcoming Committees, which are gaining volunteers. In March, nine new volunteers joined a board or committee. We would be delighted to have more of you participate meet new people and help your community. Your involvement is crucial, and we appreciate all who have contributed their time and expertise.
These steps forward are a testament to our collective dedication to making our community stronger, safer, and more vibrant. We encourage all residents to stay engaged, share feedback, and participate in upcoming initiatives. Thank you for your continued support to build an even better place to call home.
KevinandMike, BCAPresidents
April 6th @ 11am to 2pm
Come with the kids to the annual Bell Canyon Eggstravaganza! Look at all the stuff going on!
Spring Bunny
Arts & Crafts
Egg Hunt
Raffles & Prizes
Petting Zoo
Photo Ops
Drink Station
Food Trucks
Fun for all ages:
Lane #1 = Under 3 years old
Lane #2 = Ages 4-6 years old
Lane #3 = Ages 7-9 years old
Lane #4 = Ages 10-12 years old
Golden Egg Hunt = 13-16 years old
Please join us for two Town Hall Meeting to review important topics. There are two meetings coming up that are focused on two different topics.
State of the Canyon
Sunday, March 30th at 2PM in the Bell Canyon Community Center (social hall)
Areas of Focus: Financials
Update on Legal, Community Center, Roads
Operations: Challenges, Gaps and Initiatives
The Path Ahead
Questions & Answers, plus Stations for One-On-One Discussions.
Fire Safety in the Canyon
Saturday, April 5th at 2PM in the Bell Canyon Community Center (social hall)
Agenda will be issued by the HOA shortly!
Plein Air at the
CCOVERAGE OVERAGE Special
Meredith Jacobson Organizer, Resident
Capturing Bell Canyon: Artists Gather at the Equestrian Center
Nestled in the rolling hills of Bell Canyon, the elegant, 1960s-era Cliff May-designed Bell Canyon Equestrian Center has long been a source of inspiration for artists With its classic California ranch-style architecture, modern stables, and the movement of horses and riders throughout, the center offers a picturesque setting that naturally lends itself to artistic interpretation
Recognizing this creative potential, Bell Canyon resident and artist Meridith Jacobson brought together a group of about ten local artists for a plein air painting session in February 2025 Organized through SOCAL Plein Air and Plein Air Ventura County, the event welcomed painters who set up their easels to capture the beauty of the equestrian center and its surroundings
“This place has a unique energy,” said Jacobson “There’s something magical about painting outdoors, surrounded by the very subject you’re trying to bring to life The Equestrian Center is a piece of Bell Canyon history, and we wanted to celebrate that through art.”
As the afternoon sun cast golden hues over the landscape, each artist interpreted the scene in their own way, resulting in a stunning variety of works some realistic, others impressionistic, but all reflecting the deep connection between the community and this iconic space.
Jacobson extended an open invitation to the local community through Facebook, encouraging others to join in. The event was a chance for artists to showcase their talents, exchange ideas, and strengthen the creative spirit within the neighborhood.
Looking ahead, there is growing enthusiasm for a community art show this spring, where artists could display their works from the plein air session, as well as paintings of surrounding areas Planning has begun with the Bell Canyon HOA about a potential art show event this spring, inviting residents and art lovers to experience the beauty of their own backyard through the eyes of local painters
Still, the vision remains strong: a gathering of artists, residents, and art enthusiasts, celebrating the natural and architectural beauty of Bell Canyon As interest grows, Jacobson and fellow artists are eager to see this become an annual tradition, bringing more creative energy into the heart of the community
An early February Day for plein air painting at the BCEC
By Debbie Martin
By Laura Jesperson
By Meredith Jacobson
Laura (L) and Meredith (R)
By Penny Ballow
By Lisa
Martin
Lisa (L) and Meredith (R)
By Stacey
Stacey (L) and Meredith (R)
Spring of 2025
West End of Bell Canyon
Looking toward Ahmanson Ranch
Photo By: Alderson
Community Center Update
Community Center Update – March 2025: Phase 1 DONE!
New beginnings for 2025 in Bell Canyon! The Community Center’s re-roof and renovation project, which began in November, is progressing well, thanks to favorable weather conditions. As outlined in the last issue of Insider, Phase 1 includes replacing the roof and repairing adjacent rotten exterior wood.
The dry and windy conditions, while beneficial for keeping the project on schedule, posed challenges, such as securing materials against high winds Despite this, the project remained on track and has been completed
Updated Look and Structural Enhancements
Phase 1 focused on replacing the outdated, heavy concrete roof with a sleek, dark bronze metal roof The old roof was completely removed, new insulation along with a watertight barrier was installed This is 90% done Although the legendary extreme winds in January caused some sections of the barrier to blow off, the repairs to this took just one day
The new dark bronze roof will provide a bold, modern California country aesthetic that pairs beautifully with the white structure, all while honoring the timeless Cliff May architectural influence that defines Bell Canyon. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this new roof offers significant functional upgrades.
Key Improvements and Expanded Flexibility
Lighter Weight for Greater Flexibility: At 70% lighter than the old concrete roof, the new metal design enables the removal of interior pillars, opening up the main hall for versatile use.
Cost Savings and Fire Safety: Shortened eaves eliminate hundreds of square feet of rotten wood, reducing repair costs and minimizing fire hazards by decreasing flammable materials.
Improved Insulation and Acoustics: The new roof’s 2 inches of closed-cell foam insulation and half-
it
Where
started Even the blue tarp had given up!
Waterproofing and damage from winds
New roof is 50% installed.
The new roof is 100% complete
New Revenue Opportunities
The renovations not only enhance the Community Center but also unlock new revenue streams for the HOA in the future, though perhaps a year away:
Event Rentals: The expanded and modernized social hall will attract private and community event bookings, providing a consistent source of income.
Office Leasing: Office spaces within the Center will be leased to community-focused organizations, strengthening its role as a hub while generating additional rental revenue
Next Phases Already in Progress
Phase 1 was just the beginning of a transformative multi-phase plan for the Bell Canyon Community Center Here’s some additional details
Phase 2: Planning and budgeting for Phase 2 are well underway, with a focus on transformative interior upgrades that will bring the Community Center to its full potential This phase includes addressing damage sustained during the 1994 Northridge earthquake Once the roof’s structural reinforcement is complete, the three temporary interior pillars will be removed, restoring the hall’s original open layout
This change will highlight the stunning tongue-and-groove wood ceilings, enhancing both the aesthetic and functionality of the space. In preparation for these updates, significant work has already been done: the former “drop ceiling” has been removed, outdated HVAC systems disconnected, air handlers dismantled and removed, and old ducting cleared away.
The planned renovations aim to deliver a “new look” reminiscent of the recently remodeled HOA office, blending modern design with the timeless charm of the Community Center. These updates promise a more inviting, spacious, and functional environment for all.
Phase 3: The final phase will focus on exterior repairs and enhancements, such as stucco fixes, a fresh coat of paint, updated lighting, security upgrades, and free community WiFi to modernize and secure the facility
For the past ten years, Jenni Mandelblatt has been a cornerstone of the Bell Canyon community Whether as a welcoming face at the front desk or coordinating major events, she has become a familiar and trusted presence Through challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments, Jenni has formed deep bonds with residents, staff, and Board members Her journey is one of adaptability, passion, and an unwavering love for the community she serves
An Unexpected Career Shift
Before finding her way to Bell Canyon, Jenni worked in an entirely different industry tire and wheel sales. As the only woman on the sales team, she quickly proved herself as a force to be reckoned with, consistently ranking as the top salesperson for nearly her entire four-year tenure. But life had other plans.
When Jenni arrived in Bell Canyon as a temporary employee, she didn’t expect to stay long By lunch on her very first day, she was asked to remain for the rest of the week By that Friday, she had received an offer to officially join the team after completing her temp agency assignment What started as a short-term job quickly became a decade-long career
A Role That’s Always Evolving
Jenni began as Bell Canyon’s Receptionist and has moved fluidly between that role and Administrative Assistant over the years. “My job has always been fluid,” she says. “Responsibilities come and go, then come back again. It keeps things interesting.”
No matter her title, one thing has remained constant her dedication to the residents and her ability to be both the first friendly face newcomers see and the dependable resource longtime residents rely on
An Unexpected and Meaningful Bond
One of Jenni’s most impactful professional relationships was with former General Manager Carol Henderson a connection that started off with skepticism “I will be the first to admit, I was NOT excited to hear that Carol was returning as GM,” Jenni shares. She had heard mixed reviews and was apprehensive. But on Carol’s first day, she walked in with a warm smile and genuine curiosity about Jenni’s role.
During their first official meeting, Carol made it clear she saw Jenni’s value and was excited to work with her “Over the next several months, I was shocked at how much I enjoyed working for her,” Jenni recalls “We relied on each other, and she became a wealth of knowledge for me ”
When Carol suffered a fall that led to a serious injury, Jenni remained in close contact with her family, forming a strong bond with Carol’s daughter, Kristy On New Year’s Day, Jenni received the devastating text that Carol had passed. “I couldn’t stop crying. Losing Carol has been heartbreaking.”
Why Bell Canyon is Home
Jenni has spent more time in Bell Canyon than anywhere else over the past ten years even more than with her own family and friends. “I love it here. I love the residents, my co-workers, and what I do,” she says
Bell Canyon isn’t just a place where she works it’s a place that feels like home. “There’s just something special about Bell Canyon. I really can’t put it into words, and the only people who get it are the residents in the Canyon.”
Creating Moments That Matter
For Jenni, the most rewarding part of her job is the people. “Watching the kids grow up, feeling like I’m a part of hundre of families, and creating special relationships that I hope wi lifetime that’s what makes this job so meaningful ”
Among her many contributions, event planning holds a spec memory? September Sizzle 2016. “I coordinated the entire perform. There were 750 people at the Community Center blast, everyone enjoying the food, and hearing one of the b amazing. Especially when the band invited a dozen kids on s
Bell
Canyon’s
Strongest Moment
Through all the events and day-to-day work, one moment stands out above the rest the way Bell Canyon came together after the Woolsey Fire.
“Our Social Hall was packed with donations from residents Some people refused to leave the Canyon, despite evacuation orders, because they just couldn’t bear to leave their neighbors in need It was inspiring to witness No wonder Bell Canyon is considered one of the most charitable communities in Southern California ”
A Legacy of Community
Jenni takes immense pride in the events she has helped organize, from September Sizzle to Endless Summer and community-wide Halloweens before the Social Hall became unusable. Seeing these events come together and watching residents create lifelong memories makes all the hard work worth it.
The People Who Made It Fun
Over the years, Jenni has worked with a variety of Board members and staff each leaving their own impression. She appreciates Mike’s support for events, Dustin’s jokes, Lisa’s passion for kids and horses, Dr Z’s wisdom, Geoff’s laugh and accent, and Melissa’s caring nature
But her favorite person to work with? Erman
“He is just the best! His sense of humor, his LOVE of gummy bears, his can-do attitude, and his ability to see the good in almost everything. He manages his workload like a pro, and you can see how much he loves his wife and son. He’s an amazing human.”
Looking Ahead
Despite any challenges, Jenni believes Bell Canyon has a bright future. “I believe in the saying, ‘It’s always darkest before the dawn.’ I’m confident Bell Canyon will weather the current storms and soon, peace will return to the community.”
Lessons from a Decade in Bell Canyon
After ten years in the community, Jenni has gained invaluable lessons:
Perception is everything Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Not everyone is going to get along.
Simple words like “please” and “thank you” go a long way.
Mistakes happen it’s how you handle them that matters most
Final Thoughts
Jenni Mandelblatt has given a decade of her life to making Bell Canyon a better place. Whether helping residents, coordinating unforgettable events, or forming bonds that last a lifetime, she has left an undeniable mark on the community.
And if you ever want to make her smile ask her about her Gnome collection, her latest aquarium trip, or what gummy bears Erman is currently snacking on!
Summary of Bell Canyon’s January 31, 2025 0perating Results and Financial Position
In the month of January, the Canyon recorded $327 thousand in revenues, primarily from assessments, and $225 thousand in expenses, resulting in “income” of approximately $102 thousand. For the seven months ended January 31, 2025, revenues approximated $2.3 million and “income” approximated $530 thousand. Income earned in both periods is reflective of reduced costs, most notably in the area of litigation. Litigation related expenses were approximately $11 thousand in the month of January and only approximately $100 thousand for the seven months ended January 2025. Although litigation expenses fluctuate month to month, these amounts are reflective of the Board’s commitment to controlling litigation costs and avoiding unnecessary expenses.
As of January 31, the Canyon’s cash balance approximated $1.6 million, including refundable construction deposits. The cash balance reflects an increase of about $130 thousand over the prior month, principally due to “income” earned in January, as noted above. Our January cash balance is net of approximately $147 thousand that has been advanced to the BCCC for payment of amounts owed to contractors for the renovation of the Community Center. Through January 31, the BCCC has spent $296 thousand on the renovation primarily related to replacing the Community Center’s roof, including $ 149 thousand paid using its own available cash.
SpringinBellCanyon
WHAT IS IT ABOUT?
67 RANCHERO
THE 67 RANCHERO CHALLENGE: FACTS, COMPLICATIONS, AND SOLUTIONS
Board director Steve Rasnick asserted board misdeeds associated with selling a property owned by Bell Canyon. We won't respond to these claims point-by-point but will set the record straight.
The Board has been working to sell 67 Ranchero to generate funds for the HOA, but legal and Title issues have made it difficult Despite misleading accusations, the facts remain: we're facing a tough situation and doing everything possible to find a solution that benefits the community
Property History, Offers, and Positive Solutions
Bell Canyon's property acquisition:
In February 2020, Bell Canyon took ownership of 67 Ranchero based on a Settlement Agreement signed by Eric Wolf, former HOA President, and David Chai, the previous owner. Between direct legal expenses from the Chai lawsuit and Occidental Insurance suing the BCA, Eric Wolf, and Steve Kent for not being entitled to coverage on the Chai case, the HOA spent ~$2 6 million
You can find Chai case legal expenses on page 2 of the Bell Canyon 2022 Annual Audit Treasurer Report as shown below.
Where do we stand now --- only Chai can buy the property.
Bell Canyon received five offers to buy this property, ranging from $400,000 to $650,000 The $650,000 offer was withdrawn, the $420,000, $500,000, and $520,000 offers expired as the property circumstances became apparent, and the $400,000 is in Escrow
It is informative to read why the $650,000 offer from a knowledgeable builder was withdrawn.
Based on the building restriction before the Settlement Agreement and the previous Board's failure to get Title Insurance after securing the property --- Chai became the only viable buyer
Complications associated with selling the property: To the best of our knowledge, Eric Wolf, former HOA President, was the only BCA board member negotiating the terms of the Settlement Agreement and signed it without any board approval The agreement created two major complications now affecting the sale of the property, Title and building restriction:
1. Title Insurance: In February 2020, when Eric Wolf negotiated the Settlement Agreement, he failed to get Title Insurance or marketable Title.
As a result, only Chai, the former owner, could get title insurance on this property Eric Wolf and counsel were aware of the problem their oversight caused, so in June and July 2023, BCA counsel Wayne Pariser wrote Chai's lawyer requesting a signed Affidavit of Uninsured Deed. Chai did not sign it.
Lack of Title insurance is a massive problem for any other buyer. Still, since David Chai previously owned this property, he can get it without a problem, as the Title reverts to him without issues
Eric Wolf withheld Title complications from the Board. The Board discovered the problem years after the sale. However, the gap in title insurance eliminated any BCA insurance coverage.
Further, one property owner is currently challenging BCA's easement rights BCA documents establish HOA easement rights, but this complication delays closing Escrow
2. Building restrictions: Chai threatened to sue Bell Canyon for selective enforcement unless a buyer is held to all the same restrictions imposed on him, particularly elevation and driveway layout
Holding any buyer to those requirements, as explained by the knowledgeable $650,000 bidder above, makes the property virtually unbuildable.
SpringinBellCanyon
MAR 19 - 6pm
BCA Board Meeting
Suite 1 and Zoom
MAR 25 - 6pm
Bell Canyon Architectural Committee Meeting
Zoom Only
MAR 30 - 2pm
Bell Canyon Townhall Meeting - State of the Canyon
Join this important discussion in the BCCC Social Hall
APR 5 - 2pm
Bell Canyon Town Hall Meeting - Fire Safety
Join this important discussion in the BCCC Social Hall.
APR 6 - 11am to 2pm
Bell Canyon’s EGGSTRAVAGANZA
Get in on the fun at Bell Creek Park! Egg hunt for all ages
APR 8 - 6pm
Bell Canyon Architectural Committee Meeting
Zoom Only
APR 16 - 6pm
BCA Board Meeting
Suite 1 and Zoom
APR 21 - 7pm
Bell Canyon Community Services District Meeting (CSD)
Suite 1 and Zoom
APR 22 - 6pm
Bell Canyon Architectural Committee Meeting
Zoom Only
APR 26 - 9am to 2pm
Bell Canyon Community Services District (CSD)
Spring Clean-up! Get rid of your junk at the BCCC parking lot and other locations too.
APR 29 - 6pm
BCCC and BCEC Board Meeting
Suite 1
MAY 13 - 6pm
Bell Canyon Architectural Committee Meeting
Zoom Only
MAY 19 - 7pm
Bell Canyon Community Services District Meeting (CSD)
Suite 1 and Zoom
MAY 21 - 6pm
BCA Board Meeting
Suite 1 and Zoom
May 26
Memorial Holiday
BCA office closed
MAY 27 - 6pm
Bell Canyon Architectural Committee Meeting
Zoom Only
SpringinBellCanyon
in Memory
In th er, resig
Office Looking for guidance through such a difficult time, the Board reached out to an old and dear friend and former General Manager of decades, Carol Henderson Even though she was enjoying her semi-retirement, she didn’t hesitate to jump in the fray and return to Bell Canyon with the intention of doing anything and everything to help calm the waters and bring back the Bell Canyon she helped shape for 38 years.
While there were certainly a huge number of familiar faces, there were also a slew of new ones, and she was eager to win them over Her caring nature was the first thing most new faces saw, followed by her ability to immediately put people at ease, followed by her incredible work ethic and follow through. Even on the busiest of days, she would take the time to speak with anyone who called or came into the office to speak with her EACH person that walked through the BCA Office door needing help, be it something simple or more complex, was given Carol's undivided attention. Carol was one that always wanted to help in any way that she could. That said, she was no push-over Carol was very clear on what she felt was right and what was wrong and definitely knew how to dig her heels into the mud when she needed to.
Unfortunately, for the office staff, the Community, her family and the Board, Carol fell in early November and was seriously injured. Her intention was to get back to work as soon as humanly possible, but her body didn’t agree After suffering a few other medical issues, Carol passed away peacefully, with her family by her side, without any pain, on New Year’s Day 2025. She was 81.
There has not been a day since then that she is not thought of or mentioned - especially with the staff who wished that she was just a few steps away, ready to offer guidance or a sympathetic ear to vent to She is simply irreplaceable.
Our thoughts are with those she loved most – her daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren
May she rest in peace.
SpringinBellCanyon
in Memory
By Sarah Berman
To writ to so many p p , , g , p ially, friend So let us start at the beginning
Steve loved life He awakened every morning with a grateful heart, so happy to be looking out over the quiet rolling hills of Bell Canyon. He survived cancer as a young man and again as he grew older, and he celebrated every day as a precious gift. His deep, resonant, comforting voice was a result of radiation and having to learn to speak again after a year of speech therapy
He was interested in everyone, and sensing that, people often shared their life stories with him He was sensitive, patient, and kind, a non-judgmental listener with an open mind and opinions he shared gently. He treated everyone with respect He had a wry sense of humor, but rarely laughed out loud His response was a twinkle in his eye
He cherished his family and he felt the times with them were all too rare.
He chose a difficult profession, as a psychologist specializing in chronic pain. He founded and directed the Chronic Pain program at Kaiser Permanente's Woodland Hills Medical Center after establishing the Division of Behavioral Medicine at Kaiser's Los Angeles Medical Center. He was also a past president of the Los Angeles County Psychological Association Steve was highly respected by his peers
Besides his work Steve had a great curiosity about many things. Computers, gadgets, astronomy, cars, sailing and photography to name a few His great pleasure was helping friends find the right computer or the right doctor
No story would be complete without mentioning Coby They were inseparable He adored her The perfect time of day for them was sitting on their front deck, having a glass of wine, watching the city lights come on, and enjoying the beautiful Bell Canyon sunsets He searched the sky for the first star and always waved when the space station passed by
He loved living in Bell Canyon He served on the BCA board as well as many committees He loved the community and the community loved him. He never raised his voice in anger but often used that wonderful voice to make a statement or pose a question that made sense His was the voice of conciliation and reason
Those of us who had the pleasure of sharing evenings with Steve and Coby will miss those delightful times. We will miss the wonderful conversations about everything, the wine and cheese and sometimes the fine cognac Most of all we will miss Steve with that twinkle in his eye as he shared a funny story. Now, as I am sure he would remind us, you still have my beloved Coby
Just click to view!
EMERGENCY EXIT
March 2025
Other than through the main gate, there is an emergency evacuation route available in Bell Canyon. The Boeing company, who owns the land that was previously the Santa Susana Field Laboratory site, is allowing Bell Canyon residents to evacuate through their property in emergencies The exit can easily be accessed from Hacienda Road Hacienda Road is located at the crest of Stagecoach Road
In an emergency, the Hacienda Road gate will be opened by the HOA, LAFD or Ventura FD and residents will be allowed to drive this road. See the attached map which indicates the emergency evacuation route through the Boeing property. There is signage indicating the start of Hacienda Road as an emergency evacuation route, shown on the map (photos 1 and 2). The route is marked with signage indicating the direction to follow. See photos 2-8.
The road is approximately 2.15 miles from Hacienda Road to the top of Woolsey Canyon Road. The first 0 85 miles of the route is a dirt road (photos 2 and 3) There are signs along the way indicating the emergency evacuation route and the direction to follow When the dirt road ends, veer to your right on to Skyline Road (photo 4) and follow the concrete road (photo 5) You will come across a stop sign and see a large storage building (photo 6) where you will make a slight left turn on to Area 1 Road (photo 7). There is emergency evacuation route signage all along the way. The concrete road is approximately 1.3 miles long and terminates at the top of Woolsey Canyon Road (photo 8), near a white water tank. From there, you will proceed to Valley Circle Road and exit according to the emergency circumstances.
All residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Hacienda Road entrance.
The following pages are local listings for your convenience and do not represent in anyway an endorsement or affiliation with the Bell Canyon Home Owner’s Association
Want to help us expand our resources guide? Volunteer!
AGOURA HILLS
Courtyard TownePlace Suites
29505 Agoura Road
Agoura Hills 747-263-2348
Hampton Inn 30255 Agoura Road Agoura Hills 818-597-0333
Homewood Suites by Hilton 28901 Canwood Street
Agoura Hills 818-865-1000
Sheraton
30100 Agoura Road Agoura Hills 818-707-1220
CALABASAS
The Anza 23627 Calabasas Road Calabasas 818-707-1220
Cambria Hotel 26400 Rondell Street Calabasas 747-293-6777
Good Nite Inn 26557 Agoura Road Calabasas 818-880-6000
Hilton Garden Inn 24150 Park Sorrento Calabasas 818-591-2300
THOUSAND OAKS
Best Western Plus 75 West Thousand Oaks Blvd.
Thousand Oaks 805-497-3701
Courtyard by Marriott 1710 Newbury Road Thousand Oaks 805-499-3900
TownePlace Suites 1712 Newbury Road Thousand Oaks
805-499-3111
WOODLAND HILLS
Best Western 21830 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills 800-568-8520
Courtyard by Marriott 21101 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills 844-631-0595
Hilton 6360 Canoga Avenue Woodland Hills 855-605-0316
Warner Center Marriott 21850 Oxnard Street Woodland Hills 844-631-0595
where to eat.
AGOURA HILLS
Basta
28863 Agoura Road
Agoura Hills
818-865-2019
Lal Mirch 5146 Kanan Road
Agoura Hills
818-532-7532
Noi Due Trattoria 29020 Agoura Road
Agoura Hills 818-852-7090
Sunrose California Eatery
5046 Cornell Road
Agoura Hills 818-330-4224
CALABASAS
The Mulholland
23538 Calabasas Road
Calabasas 818-573-5667
Cafecito
4774 Park Granada
Calabasas
818-225-2233
Crossroads Kitchen 4776 Commons Way
Calabasas
747-230-4210
King’s Fish House 4798 Commons Way Calabasas 818-225-1979
Porta Via 4799 Commons Way Calabasas 818-746-2400
Rose’s Garden Bar 26787 Agoura Road Calabasas 424-955-3312
Shibuya
4774 Park Granada Ste 8B Calabasas 818-225-1560
WOODLAND HILLS
Blai 5780 Canoga Avenue Ste B Woodland Hills 747-242-1112
Casalena 22160 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills 818-704-1185
Deux Bistro 20969 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills 747-230-4034
H.O.M Italian Eatery
21136 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills
747-900-8782
Joey Woodland hills
6344 Topanga Canyon Blvd
Woodland Hills
818-340-5639
Leo & Lily
22420 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills 818-222-6622
Lum Ka Naad
22919 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills
818-914-4489
Mas Mananitas
19725 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills
747-746-8166
North Italia
6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd
Canoga Park
818-710-7246
Each month, the Bell Canyon Insider will take a step back in time, revisiting pieces of our community’s history to see how far we’ve come and perhaps learn something along the way. Over the years, thousands of people have called Bell Canyon home, some for just a short while, others for decades, shaping the fabric of our unique neighborhood.
For our first flashback, we’re turning the pages back to February 1996, when a new neighborhood publication, The Canyon, made its debut. We've reproduced it here for you to enjoy a glimpse into Bell Canyon nearly 30 years ago.
NOTE: Pages that contained full page advertisements were not included
Sunrise in Bell Canyon Saddlebow Area
Photo By: Bondy