Amidst the wild beauty of Ojai’s backcountry, this property encompasses three contiguous parcels, offering extraordinary scale, privacy and potential. Anchored by an architect-designed main home and guest house - true jewels in the landscape - this property offers a sublime vision of country living. The primal forms of the existing buildings are artfully integrated into the terrain, and form a canvas for the movement of the sun and the passage of the seasons. Built with fire-resilience in mind, they feature sliding steel doors designed to seal and protect. Offered at $5,875,000
ACRE UPPER OJAI MODERN RANCH 12179KoenigsteinRdOjai.com
ESCAPE IN A MOMENT
Deeply rooted in the region’s fresh, flavorful bounty, Ojai Valley Inn’s masterful chefs and seven original dining outlets have earned our beloved resort a stellar reputation for culinary excellence. From signature Italian-California fine dining at Olivella to our oneof-a-kind epicurean experience, The Farmhouse, we invite you to escape in a moment you’ll savor always.
(866) 976-3538 OjaiValleyInn.com
Bret Bradigan
CHRONOS V. KAIROS
We live in two kinds of time.
There’s Chronos, the tick-tock time of clocks and calendars — deadlines, dentist appointments, street-sweeping schedules. The time of aging joints and rising rents. Then there’s Kairos* — the soulful, slippery time of meaning. The ripe moment. The swell of insight that doesn't care what your watch says. One is measured; the other is felt.
In Ojai, we live at the intersection of the two. Or maybe — when we’re lucky — we live in defiance of Chronos altogether. We live for Kairos.
You feel it walking a sun-dappled trail on Shelf Road or nearby Valley View Preserve. You feel it in the first bite of an apricot still warm from the tree. In the silence after a powerful question is asked at a community meeting. In that magenta moment when the sun ignites the Topa Topa Bluffs and even the skeptics go quiet.
We are a town of artists and seekers, of people who know that not all time is created equal. “The days are long, but the years are short,” Jennifer Rubin wrote in The Happiness Project. It’s true. Especially here. Maybe it’s the way the seasons sneak past us with a jasmine-scented breeze, or the way we blink and suddenly it’s the Fourth of July parade again. Ojai time stretches, swells, contracts. Some weeks are like molasses, others like mercury.
But while we often linger in Kairos, Chronos has a way of barging in.
There’s much to celebrate this month — real, clock-time progress. A multi-million-dollar grant has been awarded to build a shelter village for our unhoused neighbors. It’s not just funding; it’s momentum. It’s movement. After too many years of band-aids and bureaucracy, we’re stepping into something brave. It won’t be perfect. It won’t be fast. But it is happening. And that matters.
Because while Ojai may be a refuge from the noise and clutter of the outside world, we are not immune to its struggles. The soul needs a home, but so does the body. Kairos without shelter is just another broken promise.
Still, what makes this town remarkable isn’t just the money or the plans. It’s the way people show up. The builders, the advocates, the dreamers who refuse to believe that small towns can’t do big things. The way someone always brings coffee. The way another hauls in a truckload of mulch. The way we argue, cry, hug, vote, and volunteer — all in the same breath. That’s Ojai time, too.
Ojai is a strange and beautiful place. Few us ended up here by accident, but whether you’re born here, drawn here, or washed ashore in search of something quieter and truer, you know this already: time works differently here. Maybe that’s why we’re so fiercely protective of this valley. We’re not just preserving space — we’re guarding moments. The ones that matter. So as summer deepens and the light lingers a little longer, I invite you to pause. Step off the Chronos treadmill for a minute. Watch the shadows shift on the mountains. Call someone you’ve been meaning to. Taste something ripe. Laugh a little too loud. Let time stretch. Let it bloom. Let it surprise you.
Because Kairos doesn’t live on a schedule. But it’s always right on time.
* Greek for time, not the Instagram guru
FOUNDING FATHERS & MOTHERS
While Edward Drummond Libbey is rightfully regarded among Ojai’s chief benefactors — having been behind the building of such Ojai landmarks as the Ojai Valley Inn, St. Thomas Aquinas Church (now the Museum), Post Office Tower and the Arcade — others have been very influential in shaping Ojai’s identity. Here’s a few:
Annie Besant. Free-thinker, feminist and noted Theosophist. Though she only spent a few days in Ojai, she brought Krishnamurti to Ojai, and helped buy hundreds of acres of property in Ojai, (now the sites of Besant Hill School and, along with A.P. Warrington, the Krotona Center) which she called “the smiling vale.” She is considered one of the pioneers of introducing Eastern mystical thought to the West, and was an early advocate of India’s independence. and the labor movement.
Jiddhu Krishnamurti. The spiritual teacher and writer, came to Ojai in 1922, sponsored by the Theosophical Society, though he later broke with that group (“The Leaderless Path.”) He gave talks to many thousands of people each year, in the Star Camps in the oak groves west of Ojai (now the site of Oak Grove School. He once held the Guinness Book of World Records for having spoken to the greatest number of people.
Weather in Ojai
Beatrice Wood. The famed ceramicist’s (“The Mama of Dada”) greatest work of art may well have been her life. The irreverent, avant-garde Wood lived and worked in Ojai for decades until her death in 1998 at age 105. She inspired two classic movies, Francois Truffaut’s “Jules et Jim,” and James Cameron’s “Titanic.” She attributed her longevity to “chocolate and young men.” Her autobiography was appropriately titled, “I Shock Myself.” Many of her distinctive, whimsical, luminous luster-glazed pieces are on display at her former home, now the Beatrice Wood Center, in upper Ojai.
Sherman Day Thacher. After coming West to farm and care for an ailing brother, the Yale-educated Thacher realized that he was going to need another source of income. So he founded The Thacher School in 1887. Now one of the most prestigious preparatory academies in the country, its founding creed was “teach a boy to ride, shoot and tell the truth.” Also, in 1896, his brother William founded “The Ojai,” the country’s oldest amateur tennis tournament. Among Thacher’s more illustrious students were industrialist, aviator and film producer Howard Hughes and three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and novelist Thornton Wilder, who wrote his first play while a Thacher student.
OJAI QUICK FACTS:
The name “Ojai” is believed to be derived from the Ventureño Chumash word ‘awhaý, meaning “moon.” In 1837, Fernando Tico received a land grant and established a cattle ranch. Thomas A. Scott, who had financial success with oil and railroads, bought the Ojai Valley in 1864 for oil exploration. By 1868, Scott, through his agent Thomas Bard, began selling properties to homesteaders. By 1874, R.G. Surdam plotted out the town he would call Nordhoff, renamed Ojai in 1917.
Ojai is about 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 30 miles east of Santa Barbara. The valley is about 10 miles long by 3 miles wide, surrounded by hills and mountains; the rare east-west orientation with a slight southward tilt gives the valley an extraordinary sun exposure; Ojai’s citrus and avocado crops are highly prized. This orientation also gives rise to Ojai as a spiritual destination.
It was due to the resources and organizing energy of Ohio glass manufacturer Edward Drummond Libbey that Nordhoff was rebuilt and renamed Ojai, inspired by the City Beautiful Movement. By 1917, with the construction of the Arcade and Post Office Tower, the town took its present shape.
The city’s self-styled nickname is “Shangri-La,” based on the story that Ojai was the backdrop (later left on the editing room floor) from the 1937 movie as the mystical sanctuary of James Hilton’s novel “Lost Horizon.”
Care Convenience
Now you can manage your healthcare with MyChart!
An important part of providing exceptional healthcare is making sure it’s easy to access and use. That’s why we rolled out MyChart, a seamless, secure patient portal where you can schedule appointments, message your provider, view test results, and pay bills. Our 2 hospitals, 25+ Health Centers, 3 Outpatient labs, and Pharmacy are all connected to MyChart for enhanced security and care. Find out more about the benefits of MyChart, and how to sign up, today.
Sign up now at mycmh.org/mychart
Camarillo ~ Fillmore ~ Oak View ~ Ojai ~ Oxnard ~ Port Hueneme ~ Santa Paula ~ Ventura
600 Good Hope Street, Oak View | 2 bed/1 bath | 1,123 sqft on .11 acres
This move-in-ready home is nestled in a desirable neighborhood with easy access to both Ojai and Ventura. Recent upgrades include fresh interior paint and updated lighting fixtures — while key elements such as the roof, garage door, and opener were just replaced in May, 2025. Also inside — you’ll discover laminate wood and tile flooring, while the main bedroom features a cozy, adorable screened patio where you can sit for morning coffee or evening relaxation. The spacious two-car garage also presents a fantastic opportunity for an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) conversion, ideal for guests, rental income, or multi-generational living. Located in a well-loved neighborhood, you’re just minutes away from popular local dining favorites like OM Thai Cuisine, Carmelita’s Authentic Mexican Food, Casa de Lago, and Mandala. Don’t miss this gem!
DRE# 01859199
DRE# 01761150
Email: ContactUs@TeamDeckert.com
Web: BestBuysInOjai.com
|
&
THE ART OF KAREN K. LEWIS
Ojai Valley Museum
June 19 – August 3
M-Th 11–5 | F 10–8 | Sat-Sun 10–6 238 East Ojai Ave Ojai, CA | 805–646–5682 follow us @ ovaartsgallery.com
Opening Reception: June 20, 5–7 PM ‘Tuscan Pots’ by Karen K. Lewis A retrospective of her celebrated career 3 rd FRIDAYS 5–7 pm join us for ART
JULY CALENDAR OF EVENTS podcast concerts events
4TH OF JULY PARADE JULY 4 4THOFJULYINOJAI.COM
JUNE 19 TO AUGUST 3
Karen K. Lewis Retrospective Dates: Thursday to Sunday Times: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Ojai Valley Museum
130 West Ojai Avenue
Contact: 640-1390
A longtime Ojai resident, Karen K. Lewis has spent her life exploring the interplay of color, form, and memory. Lewis’s work reflects a lifetime of evolution, passion, and storytelling through paint. Check out the cover story in the current issue of Ojai Quarterly.
JULY 4
Fourth of July Parade & Fireworks
Times: Parade at 10 a.m., Fireworks at dusk, gates open at 5:30 p.m.
Location: Ojai Avenue for the Parade, Nordhoff High School for the Fireworks.
Contact: 4thofJulyinOjai.com
Considered one of America’s finest small-town Independence Day celebrations. The fireworks show at Nordhoff High School includes food trucks and live music.
JULY 20-AUG 3
Ojai Playwrights Conference Times: Varies
Location: The Thacher School
Contact: OjaiPlays.org
WEDNESDAY BAND CONCERTS | JULY 5, 12, 19 & 26 | OJAIWESTROTARYCLUB.COM
Playwrights will spend the first week in community with other writers, directors, and dramaturgs, reading and discussing the work and a second week in workshop (with actors) to develop their new plays, culminating in public performances.
JULY 25
“Sally,” Ojai Film Society Summer Series Times: 7 to 10 p.m.
Location: Libbey Bowl, 210 South Signal Street
Contact: OjaiRec.com
A community-favorite outdoor film night under the stars — bring a blanket or chair and enjoy a summertime classic. Free!
— RECURRING EVENTS —
JUNE 7, 14, 21, 28
Historical Walking Tours of Ojai
Date: Every Saturday
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Ojai Valley Museum
130 West Ojai Avenue
Contact: 640-1390
Come see why there’s so much historical hullabaloo about this “smiling vale.”
RECURRING EVENTS
JULY 5, 12, 19 &26
Summer Band Concerts Times: 7:30 p.m.
OJAI PODCAST | THURSDAYS | OJAIVORTEX.COM
Location: Libbey Bowl, 210 South Signal Street
Contact: OjaiWestRotaryclub.org, libbeybowl.org
A beloved, family-friendly summer concert series featuring approximately 45 musicians playing a mix of show tunes, pop medleys, and traditional marching band music. Popcorn, lemonade, and balloons are provided, with additional event support from Boy Scouts for setup and cleanup.
JULY 13
Coffee & Cars
Dates: Second Sundays of the month Times: 8 to 10 a.m.
Location: Westridge Market parking lot
Come check out classic and luxury cars from the area’s proudest collectors.
THURSDAYS
Ojai: Talk of the Town Podcast
New episodes come out Thursdays and are available wherever you get your podcast. Guests have included Malcolm McDowell on the 50th anniversary of “A Clockwork Orange,” and Sergio Aragonés on his 60 years as a cartoonist at Mad Magazine. More than 240 episodes and counting. Sign up at OjaiVortex.com for a free newsletter.
HANNAH
LUYET
FROM SILVER STRAND TO OJAI CENTER STAGE
Hannah Luyet swapped surf and sand for scripts and spotlights — bringing her SoCal sunshine and punk-rock spirit to Ojai’s thriving theater scene
“I wish they all could be California girls,” sang the Beach Boys in 1965.
Flash forward six decades and meet Hannah Luyet, born in Oxnard, one of Southern California’s beautiful beach towns. Nothing defines that Beach Boy song more than a girl raised on the sand in the sun by the surf. Doesn’t matter if she surfed or had sand between her toes, she is the quintessential California girl.
Hannah and her older sister, Alix, who “is one of the most amazing people in my life,” were raised on the mile-long, secluded stretch of white sand called Silver Strand Beach. She loved growing up there. Describing it as “a small little surfer beach punk community. Everyone knew everyone ... kids roamed around knowing every
set of parents on the street. I miss all the pop-up punk bands that would play on people’s driveways and days at the beach in the summer.”
After attending Oxnard High School, Hannah segued to nearby Ventura College (in the beach town of Ventura) as an engineering major. “I adored math growing up and thought I was going to develop a career in that field which led me to engineering.” The classes, big on group projects and collaboration, were split up into small groups and were given unique tasks which they worked on together, then presented their solutions to the class.
“I was always the one who wanted to write a skit, make a fake commercial ad, or perform a song to accompany our presentation
— STORY BY ILONA SAARI —
to make it more fun and exciting.” Though her group thought her ideas were fun, even funny, they ultimately outvoted her for a proper Power Point presentation. The following semester, she enrolled in an acting class as a break from her engineering courses. Within a few months Hannah’s life’s goals had changed. She dropped out of her STEM courses (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) and signed up for a full course load of theater classes. The gravitational pull of the theater was too strong; her life course was forged.
After graduating and receiving an Associate’s Degree in theater arts, Hannah chose to remain in Southern California and enrolled in San Diego State University (more sand, surf and sun), earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in theater arts with a performance emphasis. Her feet were now planted, not in beach sand, but firmly on a theater stage.
While at San Diego State and focusing on performing, Hannah also took intensive courses in lighting, costume and set design. She worked in labs where she learned to apply her new knowledge to the mainstage. “I was drawn to stage management and chose
that as my second emphasis where I was able to work as an ASM (assistant stage manager) under Production MFA students.” Crossdisciplinary training has become a passion as an artist for Hannah and she encourages those in theater to learn more about different areas of a production. “It naturally makes you a better collaborator, listener, and creative. If one is to understand the great mystery, one must study all aspects.’”
Leaving San Diego, she landed in the town of Ojai, hoping to start working on a more local and regional level. Ojai, on the floor of rural Ojai Valley, is a double “A” community — agriculture and art with an artistic bent that caters to and supports writers, actors, music and theater. Still in Southern California, the valley, surrounded by mountains, does have lots of sun, but no sand and surf in sight. It was classic “post-grad insanity,” as Hannah describes it and she wasn’t sure how to start her dream career in theater, but did know she needed a job.
A friend who was working at the Coffee Connection in Meiners Oaks was moving to Oregon and thought Hannah would be a good fit as her replacement. Having had service industry work
OJAI ARTS CENTER THEATER'S PRODUCTION OF "DEER" BY AARON MARK (HOLDING THE PLAYBILL). HANNAH WAS THE STAGE MANAGER.
ABOVE: LUYET ONSTAGE FOR A SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY PRODUCTION OF “LITTLE WOMEN.”
BELOW: MICHELLE CHAKRA, LEFT WITH HANNAH AT VERITAS THEATER’S “DRAG QUEEN BINGO: BOOTS & SADDLES” EVENT.
experience, she interviewed and soon became the coffee shop’s newest barista. “Coffee Connection is my favorite job I have ever had! Jon and Brenna Furness are amazing bosses who genuinely want to see their community thrive. Not only have they come to so many of my theatrical performances, but they have helped out by donating coffee for events, selling tickets, and promoting Veritas Theater (see below) to local residents.” She goes on to say, “One of the most amazing things that has come out of working a coffee shop in a small town is being immersed in the community.” She loves that she has met so many other “fellow creatives, curious people that I have been able to collaborate with on projects. “
An acting friend who had been recently cast in a musical mentioned to Hannah that the show needed a stage manager. Hannah met with the director, Rosie Gordon, and was hired on the spot. That “became my first official job after graduating, stage manager for OPAT’s (Ojai Performing Arts Theater) summer musical, “The Fantasticks.” Hannah and Rosie grew close as friends and colleagues and have worked together on every theater project since with Rosie as Hannah’s producer, director, actor and fellow collaborator. Hannah had found her artistic place in Ojai.
LUYET AT VENTURA COLLEGE
When Rosie asked Hannah to be the company manager for the Method Machine Lab, Hannah immediately said yes and that theater lab soon morphed into the Veritas Theater, which they co-founded together.
“Making theater with Rosie is easy. I think there is something so special when you find the person who matches your creativity. Even when theater gets crazy, stressful and difficult (it is theater, after all), “it’s made easy when you can look over to your friend and say, ‘it’s a good show.’” Hannah further explains, “We made this theater because we both have the same mission and ideas: make good art and have a good time doing it.” Hannah, who fell in love with storytelling years earlier in that first acting class, now wants to tell stories with people who love telling them as much as she does. The people in Ojai have given her the support and opportunity to do just that.
Though she misses the sand and surf, she is still that California girl who found her place in the sun, because, as Katy Perry sings more contemporaneously, “California gurls, we’re undeniable!”
And the beach is just a half hour away. For more information, point your browser to VeritasTheater.org
BELOW: HANNAH (RIGHT) WITH VERITAS THEATER CO-FOUNDER ROSIE GORDON AT THE DRAG QUEEN BINGO NIGHT THEY HOST.
ABOVE: HOT DOG PHOTO TAKEN AT VERITAS THEATER FOR STAGED READING OF “AMERICAN HERO” BY BESS WOHL.
MOUNTAIN MODERN
Views, views, views. This private, gated home tucked among trees and mountains blends modern style with abundant light and indoor-outdoor flow. The vaulted living room features beamed ceilings, a fireplace, and picture windows framing mountain vistas. An open dining area connects to the remodeled kitchen with high-end appliances and custom cabinetry. Step out onto the expansive deck—perfect for entertaining under the sky. The three-bedroom, two-bath home includes hardwood floors throughout and a detached guest studio for visitors. Relax on the patio beneath the oaks and savor the stunning views. With smooth Santa Barbara stucco and space for horses, this retreat has it all.
HIDDEN HAVEN
Tucked inside the prestigious gated enclave of Rancho Matilija, this two-story estate captures the tranquil, enchanting spirit of Ojai. Bordered by the Ojai Land Conservancy to the north and the Ventura River to the east, the property offers rare privacy and direct access to nature. Residents enjoy private equestrian and walking trails connecting to the Los Padres National Forest, the Ventura River, and scenic neighborhood paths. From its elevated perch, the home commands sweeping views of the Ojai Valley and the iconic Topa Topa Mountains—famed for the “Pink Moment,” when sunset casts a rosy glow across the peaks and valley below. The residence includes five large bedrooms and five bathrooms. Upstairs, new all-wool carpeting adds warmth and natural elegance. The master suite is a peaceful sanctuary with panoramic views, a spa-like en-suite bath, and a generous walk-in closet.
1 SHELF ROAD 3.5mi
EASY | Elev. Gain: 200 ft | Overlooks downtown Ojai.
2
RIVER PRESERVE 0-7mi
VARIES | Elev. Gain: ≤ 520 ft Wills-Rice Loop is the longest trail.
5
HORN CANYON 5.5mi
STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 1600 ft | Goes to the Pines.
8
ROSE VALLEY 1mi
EASY | Elev. Gain: 100 ft Rose Valley Falls.
3
PRATT TRAIL 8.8mi
STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 3300 ft | Goes to Nordhoff Peak.
6
COZY DELL 2.2mi
MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 740 ft | Cozy Dell Creek & Ridge.
9
SISAR CANYON 22mi
STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 4800 ft |Topa Topa Bluffs.
4
GRIDLEY TRAIL 6-12mi
MODERATE | 3 mi to Gridley Springs (Elev. Gain: 1200 ft) 6 mi to Nordhoff Peak.
7
MATILIJA CANYON 12mi
MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 1200ft | North Fork.
10
SULPHUR MTN. 22mi
MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 2300 ft | Sulphur Mountain Road.
EAST END MASTERPIECE
Welcome to this nearly 35-acre income producing ranch located in the prestigious East End of Ojai. Truly iconic ranch nestled between McNell Creek and the Topa Topa Mountains offering you a perfect “Pink Moment” nearly every evening. This 1920’s farmhouse has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, remodeled kitchen and bathrooms, and a massive original rock fireplace. The light-filled rooms with large windows showcase the panoramic mountain views. There is a separate office/ art stdio and a separate two bedroom, one bathroom guest house. Plenty of room to park all your farm equipment in the oversized three-car garage. This ranch produces Ojai Pixies, avocados, Cara Cara navel oranges, and a variety of other fruit trees. With a high-producing well along with Casitas ag water meter and solar ...living off the grid never looked so good. Rare opportunity to be part of the Williamson Act for tax savings benefits.
There's no place like home. Let me find yours.
OAK HAVEN RETREAT
Sitting perfectly on more than an acre of land, nestled among the majestic Oak trees, you will find a lovely Craftsman-style home which has been tastefully remodeled. The large picture windows showcase the great room with vaulted ceilings, large fireplace, and amazing views. The kitchen opens to the den and also to the dining room for ease of entertaining with top-ofthe-line appliances. There is a screened-in porch off the dining room which looks out onto the oak-studded backyard and pool. Your family and friends will enjoy their stay in the spacious, private guest house which overlooks the pool and views. Majestic oaks add to the privacy and serenity. If you have horses, this property has a barn and arena, and is close to surrounding hiking trails. There is an oversized three-car garage, solar, and a large workshop. You will love the understated elegance.
PROPERTY DETAIL
MOUNTAIN VIEWS
The Secret Life of Your Disappearing Pool
(A Genteel Mystery Solved in Six Sensible Steps)
Evaporation can account for the loss of an average of one-quarter inch of pool water per day, which, depending on the size of your pool, can add up to thousands – or tens of thousands – of gallons of water lost each year. Since we are generally in some state of drought here and are currently in a severe drought, everything we can do to save water is a step in the right direction.
If you have a swimming pool and would like to save money and conserve water by reducing evaporation, here are six tips to try.
By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela
Get a pool cover: This one is too obvious to not be first on this list. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), using a pool cover prevents up to 95 percent of evaporation. There is a variety of choices available, including manual and automatic options. Using a cover also keeps your pool cleaner, keeps the water warmer, and, depending on the type of cover you install, a cover can also make your pool safer.
Try a liquid pool cover: Liquid pool covers (aka liquid solar covers, liquid solar blankets) create an invisible barrier on top of the water the reduces evaporation, heat loss, and chemical loss.
Turn off water features when not in use. Waterfalls and fountains are beautiful and relaxing, but they also make the water in your pool evaporate faster. So, when you are not using them as a focal point during a dinner party or to enjoy the look and sound of moving water while lounging by the pool, turn them off.
Lower the temperature on your pool heater: The warmer the water is, the faster it will evaporate. That makes simply lowering your pool temperature by a few degrees an easy way to reduce pool water evaporation this summer. You will also benefit from using less electricity to heat your pool.
Add shade and windbreaks around your pool: Since heat and wind are two of the main causes of evaporation, reducing these
elements around your pool can help you save water. Consider privacy fencing, trees and shrubs, or a shade structure to protect your pool from the elements.
Maintain pool chemicals: Test the chemical balance of your pool regularly to ensure that you are maintaining proper pH and alkalinity. When chemical imbalances occur, the water is less stable, which increases evaporation.
Using a local pool maintenance service is the best way to ensure that your chemicals are regularly tested and balanced. If you need a professional to help with any of these other tips, such as installing a fence or planting trees, make sure to use local contractors and vendors to support the local economy.
Ross Falvo
Keller Williams Realty “The Ojai Real Estate Guy” RossFalvo.com 805-207-5094
Dennis Guernsey LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
805-798-1998
Nora Davis LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
OjaiValleyEstates. com 805-207-6177
Jessica McRae Ojai Valley Real Estate
221 E. Matilija St., Ste J (805) 699-8645 jessica@ojaivalleyrealestate. com
Patty Waltcher LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
Call me for your Real Estate needs. 805-340-3774
Therese A. Hartmann is a local loan consultant affiliated with C2 Financial Corporation, and is a Licensed Broker, California BRE #01048403. NMLS # 298291. Call Therese today at (805) 798-2158.
Donna Sallen Remax Gold Coast Realtors
Donna4Remax@aol.com
DonnaSallen.com 805-798-0516
Logan Hall Logan Hall Photography 805-798-0337 loganhallphotos. com
Vivienne Moody LIV Sotheby’s International Realty 805-798-1099 vmoody10@ sbcglobal.net OjaiLifestyle.net
Amy Hall | Realtor® LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
Amy.Hall@SothebysRealty.com direct+1
805.444.7874
554 E Main Street | Ventura, California 93001 Cal DRE 01957427
Bob Kemper Broker, MBA Kemper Realty of LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
Larry Wilde LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Wilde-Wilde. com 805-640-5734
Erik Wilde LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Wilde-Wilde.com 805-830-3254
Team Deckert
Keller Williams Realty
Ray Deckert, Broker Associate ContactUs@ TeamDeckert. com
805-272-5218
Dale Hanson Ojai Valley Real Estate 211 E. Matilija Street, Ste. J, 206 E. Ojai Ave. 805-646-7229 dale@ovhl.com
Anne Williamson LIV Sotheby’s Anneshomesinojai.com
805-320-3314
Start writing your Ojai story with us.
We are a little team with a lot of love for houses and the people they hold. We know Ojai and the mountains that surround it. We know the secret pockets and lanes that make it magical — just like we know all of the corners of Los Angeles and its unique architecture, design and possibility. We understand the market and sales and the delicate nature of navigating the process of buying and selling a home. We’ve got this. Each house is a story. We want to know yours.
Elisa Crispi Tracey Becker
Michelle Berryhill
Andrew Stiles Heidi Sowards
AGAVE MARIA
Fresh, wholesome Mexican food & drink
106 South Montgomery Street (805) 646-6353 agavemarias.com
AJ’S EXPRESS CHINESE EXPRESS
Gourmet Chinese food to eat in or to go 11566 North Ventura Avenue (805) 646-1177 ajchinesecuisine.com
BOCCALI’S
Pizza & Pasta, from our farm to our tables
3277 Ojai-Santa Paula Road (805) 646-6116 boccalis.com
BONNIE LU’S COUNTRY CAFE
Traditional American breakfast & brunch 328 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-0207
THE DEER LODGE
An Ojai legend since 1932 2261 Maricopa Highway (805) 646-4256 deerlodgeojai.com
THE DUTCHESS
457 East Matilija Street (805) 640-7987 thedutchessojai.com
FARMER & THE COOK
The best of organic Ojai 339 West El Roblar Drive (805) 640-9608 farmerandcook.com
YUME JAPANESE BURGER
254 East Ojai Avenue (Arcade) (805) 646-1700
JIM & ROB’S FRESH GRILL
Mexican-American & regional favorites 214 West Ojai Avenue #100
(805) 640-1301
jimandrobsojai.com
HIP VGN
Vegan sandwiches, salads & bowls
201 North Montgomery Street
hipvegancafe.com (805) 669-6363
HOME KITCHEN OF OJAI
Breakfast and lunch in a warm space 1103 Maricopa Highway (805) 646-5346
HomeKitchenofOjai.com
MANDALA
Pan-Asian Cuisine 11400 North Ventura Road (805) 613-3048
THE NEST
401 East Ojai Avenue (805) 798-9035 thenestojai.com
OAK GRILL @ THE INN
Al fresco dining under vine-covered pergola 905 Country Club Road (805) 646-1111 ojairesort.com
OJAI COFFEE ROASTING COMPANY
Salads, sandwiches & superb service 337 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-4478
OJAI PIZZA COMPANY
331 Ojai Avenue (Downtown Ojai) 545-7878
TheOnlyGoodPizza.com
OJAI PIZZA COMPANY (Oak View)
The go-to place for food & sports 820 North Ventura Avenue
OJAI ROTIE
Rotisserie, sourdough, winebox 469 East Ojai Avenue (805) 798-9227 ojairotie.com
PAPA LENNON’S
Family owned, original & traditional Italian cuisine 515 West El Roblar Drive (805) 640-7388 papalennons.com
RAINBOW BRIDGE
A community gathering place 211 East Matilija Street (805) 646-6623 rainbowbridgeojai.com
THE RANCH HOUSE
An Ojai culinary destination for more than 60 years 102 Besant Road (805) 646-2360 theranchhouse.com
SAKURA OJAI
A locals’ favorite for Japanese food 219 East Matilija Street (805) 646-8777 sakuraojai.wix.com
SEA FRESH
Serving Ojai for 30 years 533 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-7747 seafreshseafood.com
ZAIDEE’S BAR & GRILL
Patio & indoor dining with Ojai’s most tranquil views 1033 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-5685 soulepark.com
CHEF RANDY’S LIFE OF SPICE
‘BEAN ME UP, OJAI!’
This burger has great texture and flavor, and it’s not mushy in the middle. I think you’ll find that it has the perfect combination of black beans, veggies, breadcrumbs, seeds, nuts, spices, and herbs. It’s ideal for grilling this summer and fall.
Randy Graham is a noted chef and writer and has been a lacto-ovo vegetarian for over 38 years. Chef Randy has written and published a series of seven cookbooks with original recipes developed over the period 1975 through 2020. He writes for the Ojai Quarterly, the Ojai Monthly, and the California 101 Travelers Guide. His vegetarian recipes are published in newspapers throughout Central California under the header, Chef Randy. He and his wife, Robin, live in Ojai, California, with their dog Cooper. Robin and Cooper are not vegetarians.
INGREDIENTS:
1/3 cup warm water
3 tablespoons flax seed meal
(Bob’s Red Mill is good)
14-ounce can of black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 cup red onion (chopped fine)
2 large cloves of garlic (minced)
1 cup carrots (grated)
1/3 cup parsley (chopped fine)
1/2 cup sunflower seeds (toasted and chopped)
1/2 cup almonds (toasted and chopped)
2 tablespoons Tamari sauce
3 large egg whites (lightly beaten)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup rolled oats (blended coarsely)
1/2 cup unseasoned bread crumbs
DIRECTIONS:
Whisk the water and flaxseed meal in a small bowl. Cover and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained black beans. Using a potato masher, mash the beans until about 2/3 of the mixture becomes a bean “paste,” while leaving roughly 1/3 of the beans mostly intact. Set the bowl aside.
In a skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Stir in the onion and garlic and sauté for five minutes. Transfer the onion and flax meal mixture into the bowl with the mashed beans. Add the carrots, parsley, sunflower seeds, almonds, Tamari sauce, eggs, chili powder, oregano, cumin, and salt, and mix to combine.
Using your hands, mix the oats and bread crumbs until the mixture comes together. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before shaping patties. Form the dough into six tightly packed patties. If you have a hamburger press, this is a good time to use it.
Grill over medium-high heat (about 400 degrees) for four minutes. Carefully flip and grill for an additional three minutes. Allow the patties to cool on a rack for five minutes before serving to help them firm up a bit. At this point, they can be refrigerated or frozen if you are preparing these in advance.
Serve on a grilled bun with a spread of lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion. Add my secret sauce to the burger and serve with a dill pickle and chips.
BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL?
Political Decision-Making & How It Affects Homeownership
My father was a wise man. Wise enough to not want to get involved with local politics — he always said it was a thankless job where half of Ojai would adore you and the other half take potshots at you — but he did find other ways to make a difference.
Among other ventures, he played a significant role in making life better for the elderly by serving as a “senior senator” for many years. This entailed his reading through many, many bills having to do with seniors, finding the best of them and then jockeying them on the floor in Sacramento. He knew what we probably are all aware of ... many of these important ideas would get wrapped in with other less favorable bills. Getting them passed took a lot of negotiating and compromise with the original format of the “good” bill often getting diluted.
We seem to have that now with President Trump’s bill.
There are some really great ideas with the Trump administration’s “Big Beautiful Bill” and some that appear well, simply put, rather dodgy. I imagine this to be the result of a sort of duking it out between political parties and we can only surmise what the final bill will hold. There doesn’t appear to be much compromise between parties. Because of this and the enormity of the bill, I have a feeling it’s going to be a bit of a wild ride to get to any consensus but as it stands, there are some powerful possibilities for homeowners and some that might be
By Therese A. Hartmann
Therese A. Hartmann has more than 25 years’ lending experience. She is a Licensed Broker, California Dept. of Real Estate #01048403, NMLS # 298291, affiliated with C2 Financial Corporation. For a free consultation, call Therese today at (805) 798-2158.
questionable.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what we are seeing at the moment:
SALT Deduction Expansion: The House version of the bill raises the cap on the state and local tax (SALT) deduction from $10,000 to $40,000. This would especially benefit homeowners in California where taxes are outrageously high.
Affordable Housing Incentives: The bill expands the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, which could lead to the development of over 500,000 affordable rental homes between 2026 and 2035. It also lowers the bond financing threshold, making it easier for developers to qualify for tax credits.
Opportunity Zones: There’s support for
expanding opportunity zones, which could encourage investment in housing developments in underserved areas.
Energy-Efficiency Cuts: Some energyefficiency tax credits for homeowners may be eliminated, potentially raising the cost of green home upgrades.
Interest Rate Concerns: The bill is expected to increase the federal deficit by trillions over the next decade. Some analysts worry this could lead to higher interest rates, making mortgages more expensive.
Rent Regulation Restrictions: A controversial provision would block local governments from regulating rent-setting algorithms for the next decade, which critics argue could favor large landlords over tenants.
In short, the bill could offer tax relief and encourage housing development, but it may also widen the gap between wealthy and lower-income homeowners. If you’re a homeowner in California and/or involved in real estate development, the benefits could be enormous. For renters, even though they typically don’t have all of the headaches of home ownership (taxes, repairs, high mortgage payments, high-priced or nonexistent insurance, excessive utility bills, etc.) you might see fewer protections. And don’t forget, just because a bill gets passed, or an executive order gets signed, implementation is a whole other story. One for another article!
Tucked between the mountains and the sea, Ojai offers a rare blend of natural beauty, artistic spirit, and small-town charm. Known for its enchanting “pink moment” sunsets, thriving creative community, and focus on wellness and sustainability, Ojai is a sanctuary for those seeking a slower pace without sacrificing culture or connection. From boutique shopping and world-class farmers markets to scenic hiking trails, luxury spas, and awardwinning dining, Ojai invites you to live in harmony with nature while enjoying the finer things in life.
Rose Valley Land - Create an off-grid, country retreat on 40 acres with mountain views, trails,
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Royal Oaks - 5 Bedrooms, Upscale Finishes Throughout, Media Room, Wine Cellar, Tasting Room, Gym/Massage Room, Pool & Spa, Putting Green, Well, Six-Car Garage, Bocce Court, Views,
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$5,500,000
and large family room in walkable neighborhood
Four-bedroom Oak View home with gas fireplace, wood-burning stove, RV parking, two-car garage, covered patio, large closets,
LO V E I S IN THE AIR ON HAPPY LANE
3541 THACHER ROAD, OJAI • NEW PRICE AT $2,300,000
This enchanting East End mini-compound spans a full acre, offering a main house (3BR+office / 2BA), art studio, writer’s office, cozy chill cabin, outdoor showers, and an infinity cedar tub. Entertain around the fire pit, yoga platform, and a chic Airstream guest retreat. Rustic yet refined, this blissful property embodies O jai’s creative spirit, surrounded by nature and just minutes to top schools, hiking trails, and adventures.
